The Great Epic Mahabharath – Akshaya Patra !!

Jai Sriman Narayana !!

The Great Epic Mahabharath  - Vana Parva describes the glory of ‘Akshya Patra’ (The maginificent  Vessel which produces  inexhaustible food).

As an unpleasant consequence to the gambling dice with Kauravas, the Pandavas lost all their glories and Kingdom.  They exiled from their Kingdom Hastinapur and left to forest.   Yudhistira was followed by his brothers Bhima, Arjuna, Nakula, Sahadeva and their wife Draupadi.  Seeing the ill-fated Pandavas the people of Hastinapur, Vedic scholars, Bhishma Pitamaha, Drona, Vidura, Rajaguru Dhaumya etc.. followed them.  Yudhishtira was deeply moved by the affection of his dear ones and persuaded them to return to their homes. 

Pandavas drove their chariots to the banks of Holy River Ganga and they were followed by several Vedic scholars.  They had holy dip in the river Ganga.  While Yudhishtira convinced the Scholars that he had nothing to offer them, moreover the life in the forest is not easy.  He requested the Vedic scholars to return to their places.  But, the scholars were determined to face any hardships for their righteous King Yudhishtira.   Yudhishtira became speechless at their dedication.  In fact, Yudhishtira had no means to provide the Brahmin scholars with their daily meals; he was very concerned about the lack of availability of the same.   He discussed the serious issue with his brothers and Guru Dhaumya.    According to Dhaumya,  Lord Surya is the life source of all living entities, so the worship of Lord Surya would promptly eliminate all their worries. Dhaumya suggested King Yudhishtira to worship Lord Surya.

King Yudhishtira followed strict austerities and worshipped Lord Surya faithfully.  Lord Surya pleased at the devotion of Yudhishtira and appeared before him.  As  a boon Lord Surya offered  a copper vessel  - Akshaya Patra to Yudhishtira and informed  him that the Akshaya Patra would meet all their requirements of food during their period of exile.  The Akshaya Patra would provide inexhaustible food on daily basis, it becomes empty once Draupadi partake her food after serving everyone.  Yudhishtira paid his sincere obeisance and gratitude to Lord Surya. 

King Yudhishtira felt relieved from a very big concern.  He handed over the Akshaya Patra to Draupadi. On daily basis, Draupadi cook a small quantity of food and keeps in the Akshaya Patra, it would produce abundance of delicious meals for all the Vedic scholars according to their requirements.  Yudhishtira sincerely serve all the vedic Brahmins with the food.  He and his brothers share their meals served by Draupadi.  At the end, Draupadi will have her meal and soon after the Akshaya Patra would become empty.

 Jai Sriman Narayana !!

The Great Epic Mahabharath – Birth of Jarasandha !!

Jai Sriman Narayana !!

Lord Krishna explains to King Yudhishtira about the story of Jarasandha. 

There was a righteous King named Brihadratha ruled the Kingdom  Magadha.   He married to the twin daughters of King of Kashi.   He married to the twin daughters with a promise to love them dearly and equally.      King  Brihadratha had no offspring’s for long time.  He was deeply depressed at the thought of no heirs to his throne.  He performed many sacrifices in order to please the deities by this means get blessed with a virtuous child. 

There was a sage Chanda-Kausika visited the Kingdom Magadha.  King Brihadratha and his wives received the Sage with due respect and honor. King Brihadratha explained the disheartening situation without any offspring.  King pleaded Sage Kausika to bless him with a child.  Sage Kausika pleased at the devotion of the King Brihadratha and his wives and offered them a boon.  Sage offered a sacred mango fruit to his wives and asked them to share equally.  With a great joy the twin sisters shared the mango fruit equally between them.  As a result, they conceived a child.  It brought a great joy in the Kingdom Magadha.  King Brihadratha was impatiently waited for the arrival of the new born. 

In due course of time, the queens of Magadha gave birth to their child.  Alas ! it brought a great shock to everyone.  The queens gave birth to their child in equal halves, in its place of two children.  The two new born had one eye, half nose, half mouth, one hand, half of stomach, one leg etc..respectively. The queens were frightened at the sight of the portion of bodies and ordered to throw them immediately.  As per the instruction of the queens the bodies of the baby were thrown out of the palace. 

During the late night hours there appeared a demon named Jara in search for flesh.    She happened to get hold of the flesh of the two portions of a baby and it made her happy.  Out of curio she combined the equal halves of the infant together, Alas !! The two portions of the baby matched well and combined, which turned out a perfect baby by all means.  The child was healthy and it was heavier for the demon Jara to hold on her hand.  Soon the child started crying out of hunger.  The maternal love of queens prompted them to rush towards the cry of the child.  The change of scene made Jara to flee from the spot.  The queens took the child to the palace, King Brihadratha felt happy at the turn of events.  Thus, the baby was named ‘Jarasandha’, as the child was properly unified by the demon Jara.

Jai Sriman Narayana !!

Sri Panchakshara Ashtothara Sathanamavali !!

Jai Sriman Narayana !!

Om Nama Shivaya !!

Om Omkara Roopaya Nama:

Omkara Nilayaya Nama:

Omkara Beejaya Nama:

Omkara Sarasa Hamsakaya Nama:

Omkara Matha Madhyaya Nama:

Omkara Manthra Vasasey Nama:

Omkaradhwara Dhakshaya Nama:

Omkara Vedhopanishadhey Nama:

Omkara Para Sowkhyadhaya Nama:

Omkara Moorthaye Nama:

Omkara Vedhyaya Nama:

Omkara Bhooshanaya Nama:

Omkara Varna Bhedhiney Nama:

Omkara Padha Priyaya Nama:

Omkara Brahmamayaya Nama:

Omkara Madhyasthaya Nama:

Omkara Nandhanaya Nama:

Omkara Bhadraya Nama:

Omkara Vishayaya Nama:

Omkara Haraya Nama:

Omkaresaya Nama:

Omkara Thandavaya Nama:

Omkara Bhoomadhye Nama:

Omkarodhakaya Nama:

Omkara Vahnaye Nama:

Omkara Vayavey Nama:

Omkara Nabhasey Nama:

Shivaya Nama:

Nakara Roopaya Nama:

Nandividhyaya Nama:

Narasimha Garva Haraya Nama:

Nana Sastra Visharadhaya Nama:

Naveenachala Nayakaya Nama:

Nava Varanaya Nama:

Nava Sakthi Nayakaya Nama:

Nava Youvanaya Nama:

Navaneetha Priyaya Nama:

Nandi Vahanaya Nama:

Natarajaya Nama:

Nashta Shokaya Nama:

Narmalapa Visharadhaya Nama:

Nama Dhakshaya Nama:

Nayana Thraya Dharaya Nama:

Navaya Nama:

Nava Vidhi Priyaya Nama:

Navagraha Rupiney Nama:

Navyavya Bojanaya Nama:

Nakhadheesaya Nama:

Makara Rupaya Nama:

Manthrajyaya Nama:

Mahithaya Nama:

Madhura Vasa Bhoomye Nama:

Mandhara Kusuma Priyaya Nama:

Mandha Dhooraya Nama:

Manmadha Nasanaya Nama:

Manthra Vidhyaya Nama:

Manthra Sastraya Nama:

Malavimochakaya Nama:

Manonmani Pathaye Nama:

Mandhaya Nama:

Mala Dhoordhwa Shirasey Nama:

Mahostavaya Nama:

Mangalakruthaye Nama:

Mandala Priyaya Nama:

Mahadevaya Nama:

Maha Nandhaya Nama:

Maha Sathwaya Nama:

Mahesaya Nama:

Shikara Rupaya Nama:

Shivaya Nama:

Shikshitha Dhanavaya Nama:

Sithikandaya Nama:

Shiva Kanthaya Nama:

Chinmara Sukhavatharaya Nama:

Shivathma Sutha Chachukshey Nama:

Shipivishtaya Nama:

Sheetha Peethaya Nama:

Shithi Vahana Janma Bhuvey Nama:

Shishupala Vipakshendraya Nama:

Shira:Krutha Surapagaya Nama:

Shili Mukheekrutha Vishnavey Nama:

Shikhi Bhoga Santhushtaya Nama:

Shivachyuthaika Bhavaya Nama:

Shiva Kethanaya Nama:

Shiva Sidhi Vasiney Nama:

Shira Chandra Bhooshanaya Nama:

Shivalayaya Nama:

Shikhamanaye Nama:

Vikara Rupaya Nama:

Vagvadhini Pathaye Nama:

Vana Panasa Vasiney Nama:

Vara Veshadharaya Nama:

Varabhaya Hasthaya Nama:

Vamachara Prayukthaya Nama:

Vama Dhakshina Hasthokthaya Nama:

Varnarchithaya Nama:

Varuni Madha Vihwalaya Nama:

Vajra Makuta Dhariney Nama:

Vahni Somarkka Nayanaya Nama:

Vasavarchithaya Nama:

Valli Natha Pitharey Nama:

Vachana Shudhhaye Nama:

Vageeshwararchithaya Nama:

Vayu Vegaya Nama:

Vasanthostava Priyaya Nama:

Vajra Sakthi Praharanaya Nama:

Vasithadhwaishta Sidhaye Nama:

Varna Bhedhiney Nama:

Yakara Rupaya Nama:

Yagadheeshwaraya Nama:

Yajur Vedharchithaya Nama:

Yath Karma Sakshiney Nama:

Yallaganivignaya Nama:

Yajamana Swaroopiney Nama:

Yadhakasa Nagaresaya Nama:

Yath Kathyayani Pathaye Nama:

Yath Vrushabha Vahanaya Nama:

Yath Karma Phaladhayakaya Nama:

Yagjakadhi Pravarthakaya Nama:

Yamanthakaya Nama:

Yavannkshara Nayakaya Nama:

Yavan Manthra Swaroopiney Nama:

Yaksha Swaroopaya Nama:

Yajangaya Nama:

Yajya Bhokthrey Nama:

Yasya Daya Sidhaye Nama:

Yath Sadhu Sangama Priyaya Nama:

Yavan Nakshtramaliney Nama:

Yavath Bhaktha Hrudhi Sthithaya Nama:

Yachaka Vesha Dharaya Nama:

Sundara Kushambika Sametha Sri Thejanishwaraya Nama:

Jaya Jaya Sankara Hara Hara Sankara !!

Jai Sriman Narayana !!

Sri Lalithambal Sobanam - Sri Lalithambal Thiru Kalyanam !! Part II !!

Jai Sriman Narayana !!


Jai Ambey Ma !

The majestic preparations for the celestial marriage of Sri Lalithambal and Lord Kameshwara took place.    Lord Vishnu instructed Vishnwakarma to raise a wedding hall decorated with gold and precious gems for the divine marriage of the couple.  As per the command and wishes of the deities, Vishnwakarma built a spectacular marriage hall,  to everyone’s amazement the marriage hall was well embellished in traditional ways with banana plant, Sugar cane, bunch of tender coconut, bunch of flowers with all varieties of flowers with alluring fragrance.   A magnificent marriage hall for the celestial wedding of Lord Kameshwara and Goddess Lalithambal got ready in no time.  Lord Brahma after discussing the proposed marriage plans with Lord Vishnu, arrived at the chamber of Sri Lalithambal.  Lord Brahma greeted her saying that they will meet once again after the marriage with her husband and bid farewell to her.  Sri Lalithambal happily took her garland from her neck and flings it on the sky, it adorned the neck of Lord Kameshwara.

The marriage ceremony began, all the deities showered flower on the couple, and the auspicious rhythm of musical instruments ingested the entire atmosphere.  The celestial dancers Urvasi and others performed at the wedding.  Lord Kameshwara and Sri Lalithambal appeared in their majestic attaire into the center of the wedding hall.   The glorious sight of the couple’s arrival required thousand eyes to see.  They exchanged garlands and settled in a flower cradle, Lord Brahma instructed Lord Vishnu to perform ‘Kanyaka Danam’.  The rituals took place on the auspicious moment with the supervision of Lord Brahma.  Lord Kameshwara performed ‘Thirumangalya Daranam’ to Sri Lalithambal in the presence of all the deities.  They together performed the fire sacrifices; Lord Kameshwara took Sri Lalithambal in his hands and performed the auspicious rituals ‘Ammimethikkal and Arundathi Parkkal’ and performance of offering puffed rice on the sacred fire etc.. The entire Universe praised the glory of Lord Kameshwara and Sri Lalithambal.  Later, Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, Lord Varuna,  Lord Vishwakarma, Lord Agni, Lord Vayu and all the deities offered their respect to the divine couple.  Immediately after the wedding the crowning ceremony for the couple also performed by the deities.  The divine couple settled in a ‘Pushpaka Vimanam’ (celestial vehicle) offered by Lord Brahma, for their journey to their Kingdom.  The celestial vehicle moved through the Kingdom followed by the rhythm of divine musical instruments and Vedic Chanting of Rishis. While the celestial vehicle moving marvelously on the streets with the stunning divine couple, ladies performed Harathi for Lord Kameshwara and Goddess Lalithambal.

Jai Ambey Ma !!

Jai Sriman Narayana !!

Sri Lalithambal Sobanam - Sri Lalithambal Thiru Kalyanam !! Part I !!

Jai Sriman Narayana !!

The mother of the Universe Goddess Sri Parvathy took a bodily form known as personification of Sri Lalithambal.  At this Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Rudra, Sages and deities, Kinnaras, Kimpurushas, Gandharvas, Bairava, Kshetrapalakas, Lord Muruga, Lord Ganesha, Ashtadikpalakas, Goddess Varahi, Goddess Chamundi like Sapthamathas also arrived to envision the majestic appearance of Sri Lalithambal.

All the deities praised the glories of Sri Lalithambal and taken their seats offered in her assembly.  Lord Brahma ordered Vishwakarma – celestial sculptor to build a palace which is suitable for her in all the sense.  With the blessings of Sri Lalithambal, the celestial sculptor Vishwakarma built a grand palace for her.  It has numerous striking chambers with all kinds of precious gems and scintillating royal seat for the most gorgeous mother of the Universe – Sri Lalithambal.  Lord Brahma astounded at the majestic look of the palace and at the spectacular beauty of Sri Lalithambal.  He started to think ‘Where did I find a celestial husband for this dazzling Sri Lalithambal?’.   There was no one in the Universe suitable for Goddess Lalithambal other than Lord Rudra.  But, He had chosen the life in cremation grounds as His favorite place, preferred to smear ashes all over the body, loved to wear poisonous snakes around the neck instead of glittering jewels, He preferred matted locks of hair and carrying the skeletons and skulls.  ‘How it is possible for Him to wed the charismatic Sri Lalithambal as His wife?’ Lord Brahma continued to visualize the things which made him even more confused. 

Lord Rudra understood everything Lord Brahma has imagined.  Immediately, Lord Rudra took His brilliant and radiating form with all the glitters of jewels all over his body and in elegant attire, He stood before Sri Lalithambal in order to hypnotize her.  Thus, Lord Brahma astonished at the charming appearance of Lord Rudra and named him ‘Kameshwara’.  Lord Brahma announced the grand wedding ceremony which is going to be held shortly for Lord Kameshwara with Sri Lalithambal.

Will be continued................

Yadhakshra Padha Brashtam Mathra Heenam Thu Yad Bhaved

Thath Sarvam Kshamyatham Devi Narayani Namosthuthey

Visrga Bindu  Mathrani Padha Padhaksharani Cha

Nyunani Chathirikthani Kshamaswa Jagadeeshwari

Anyatha Saranam Nasthi Thwameva Saranam Mama

Thasmath Karunya Bavena Raksha Raksha Sri Lalithambikey

Jai Sriman Narayana !! 

Sri Tulsi Ashtothara Sathanamavali !!

Jai Sriman Narayana !!

.

Om Thulsiye Nama:

Pavanyai Nama:

Poojyayai Nama:

Vrindavana Nivasinyai Nama:

Gnana Dathryai Nama:

Gnana Mayayai Nama:

Nirmalayai Nama:

Sarva Poojithayai Nama:

Sathyai Nama:

Pavithrayai Nama:

Vrindhayai Nama:

Ksheerabhdhi Madanothbhavayai Nama:

Krishna Varnayai Nama:

Roga Hantryai Nama:

Thrivarnyai Nama:

Sarva Kamadhayai Nama:

Lakshmi Sakhiyai Nama:

Nithya Sudhhayai Nama:

Shudhhai Nama:

Boori Pavanyai Nama:

Hari Dhyanaika Nirathayai Nama:

Hari Padha Krithalayayai Nama:

Pavithra Roopinyai Nama:

Dhanyayai Nama:

Sugandhinyai Nama:

Amruthoth Bhavayai Nama:

Suroopa Arogyadhayai Nama:

Thushtayai Nama:

Sakthi Thrithaya Roopinyai Nama:

Dhevyai Nama:

Deva Rishi Samsthuthayai Nama:

Kanthayai Nama:

Vishnu Mana Priyayai Nama:

Bootha Vethala Bheethignai Nama:

Maha Pathaka Nasinyai Nama:

Manoratha Pradhayai Nama:

Medhayai Nama:

Kanthayai Nama:

Vijaya Dhayinyai Nama:

SankhaChakra Gadha Padma Dharinyai Nama:

Kama Roopinyai Nama:

Apa Varga Pradhayai Nama:

Shyamayai Nama:

Krusha Madhyayai Nama”

Sukeshinyai Nama:

Vaikunda Vasinyai Nama:

Nandhayai Nama:

Bimboshtyai Nama:

Kokila Swaraya Nama:

Kapilayai Nama:

Nimnaga Janma Bhoomyai Nama:

Ayushya Dhayinyai Nama:

Vana Roopayai Nama:

Dukka Nasinyai Nama:

Avikarayai Nama:

Chathur Bujayai Nama:

Garuth Vahanayai Nama:

Santhayai Nama:

Dhanthayai Nama:

Vigna Nivarinyai Nama:

Sri Vishnu Moolikayai Nama:

Pushtyai Nama:

Trivarga Phaladhayinyai Nama:

Maha Sakthyai Nama:

Maha Mayayai Nama:

Lakshmi Vani Supoojithayai Nama:

Sumangalya Archana Preethayai Nama:

Sowmangalya Vivardhinyai Nama:

Chathurmasya Utsava Aradhyayai Nama:

Vishnu Sanidhya Dhayinyai Nama:

Utthana Dwadashi Poojayai Nama:

Sarva Deva Poojithayai Nama:

Gopi Rathi Pradhayai Nama:

Nithyayai Nama:

Nirgunayai Nama:

Parvathi Priyayai Nama:

Apa Mrutyu Harayai Nama:

Radha Priyayai Nama:

Mruga Vilochanayai Nama:

Amlanayai Nama:

Hamsa Gamanayai Nama:

Kamalasana Vandhithayai Nama:

Booloka Vasinyai Nama:

Shudhhayai Nama:

Rama Krishnadhi Poojithayai Nama:

Seetha Poojyayai Nama:

Rama Mana Priyayai Nama:

Nandhana Samsthithayai Nama:

Sarva Theerthamayai Nama:

Mughdhayai Nama:

Loka Srushti Vidhayinyai Nama:

Prathar Drushtyayai Nama:

Kwani Hanthryai Nama:

Vaishnavyai Nama:

Sarva Sidhhidhayai Nama:

Narayanyai Nama:

Santhathi Dhayai Nama:

Moolamruthari Pavanyai Nama:

Asoka Vanika Samsthayai Nama:

Seetha Aradhyayai Nama:

Nirashrayayai Nama:

Gomathi Sarayu Theera Shobithayai Nama:

Kudilalakayai Nama:

Apathra Bhakshya Papagnai Nama:

Dana Dheya Vishudhhi Dhayai Nama:

Sruthi Dharana Supreethayai Nama:

Shubhadhayai Nama:

Sarveshta Dhayinyai Nama:

Jai Sriman Narayana !!

Amavasya on 30th June & 1st July, 2011 !! Varaha Puranam - Budhha Dwadashi Vrutam !!

Jai Sriman Narayana !!

Varaha Puranam describes 'Budhha Dwadashi Vrutam'.  Sri Budhha is an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. 

The austerity begins on the eleventh day of bright half  month Shravan.  Lord Vishnu is worshipped on this day, as praising the glory of His Feet (Damodhara), Waist (Hrishikesha), Abdomen (Sanatana), Chest (Srivasta Dhariney), Arms (Chakrapanaye), Throat (Haraye), Head (Manjukeshaya) and Shikha or hairlocks (Bhadrey).

At the end of the ritual, the idol of Lord Vishnu along with alms are donated to a Brahmin.

Jai Sriman Narayana !!

275 Thevara Shivasthalam !! Thiruvotiyur Sri Adipureeshwarar/Sri Tyagarajar Temple !!

Jai Sriman Narayana !!

Hara Hara Sankara Jaya Jaya Sankara !!

 

Adipureeshwarar temple is located at Thiruvotiyur in Chennai. The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Shiva – Adipureeshwarar/Natarajar with His consort – Goddess Tripura Sundari/Vadivudai amman.  Lord Shiva – Adipureeshwarar/ Natarajar worshipped in the form of Linga.  This is one of the ancient temples existing from the date back 1300 years.   Lord Shiva worshipped in three forms here – Agni, Swayambu Linga and indescribable form believed to be present inside the snake pit. This is one of the ‘Thevara Padal Petra’ temple, the famous Shaiva poets Saint Thirunavukkarasar, Gnana Sambar and Sundarar  sung praising the glory of Lord Shiva.  There are nearly 275 songs were composed by the famous tamil saints praising the glory of Lord Shiva and known as one of the famous ‘Shivasthalam’ in Chennai.

The temple has magnificent tower - Rajagopuram of 120ft on the west.  The temple pillars reveals the inscriptions from the period of Chola Dynasty, ruled by Parakrama Chola I and Uthama Chola.    The presiding deity Lord Adipureeshwarar worshipped in the form of Linga facing west.  There is a separate sannidhi for Goddess Tripurasundari, which attracts large crowd during the Fridays and Full moon days.  There are sannidhis for Lord Muruga, Lord Ganesha, Sri Adi Sankara Bhagavad Padal, Kulandai Eshwarar (Shiva Linga), Kalyana Sundarar, Bairava and Navagraha.  Three are 108 Shivalingas can be seen in the praharam of the temple.

 

 

 

The legend has that, after the Pralaya (deluge) Lord Shiva appeared in the form of Linga on the Earth  as Lord Adipureeshwarar, thus the temple came to known as one of the prominent ‘Shivasthalam’.  One of the main attractions of this temple is ‘Kanaka Saba’/ ‘Hall for cosmic Dance’ of Lord Shiva.  This hall is decorated with the idol of Lord Nandi  along with Lord Natarajar and His consort Goddess Sivakami.  The legend has that, Lord Nandi prayed to Lord Shiva and revealed his desire to visualize Lord Shiva’s unique cosmic dance.  Lord Shiva instructed Nanadi to perform penance in Thiruvottiyur.  Nandi visited Thiruvottiyur, constructed a temple tank which was near the Sanctum and Sanctum of Sri Adi Pureeshwarar.  Lord Nandi immersed himself in the water and underwent severe penance.  The deities and rishis came to know about Nandi’s severe austerity to visualize the cosmic dance of Lord Shiva.  Lord Vishnu with His consort Sri Mahalakshmi, Lord Brahma also joined with Lord Nandi.  Thus, all the deities underwent severe penance here after constructing their own temple tank respectively.  Lord Shiva pleased at the devotion of the deities and performed His Unique cosmic dance for them.

The outer Praharam of Lord Adipureeshwara housed the idols of 63 Nayanmmar along with Kaliya Nayanar who lived in Thiruvottiyur.   Kaliya Nayanar, was a merchant lived Thiruvottiyur, he was an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva.  He worshipped Lord Shiva by visiting this temple on regular basis and engaged in lightening oil lamps.  Years passes by, Kaliya Nayanar became pauper and was not in a position to spend money on the oil for lightening the lamp.  Hence, he decided to give off his blood in place of oil for lightening the lamp.  At the right point of time, Lord Shiva appeared before him and stopped him in doing so.  Lord Shiva pleased at the self –less devotion of Kaliya Nayanar and blessed him.

Jaya Jaya Sankara Hara Hara Sankara !!

 

Jai Sriman Narayana !!

Yogini Ekadashi !!

Jai Sriman Narayana !!

Brahma Vaivarta Puranam describes the glory of Yogini Ekadashi which occurs on the waning period of the moon. 

 

Lord Krishna narrates to King Yudhishtira about  the glories of  Yogini Ekadashi   which is capable to destroy all the  sins committed in one’s life and capable to liberate from the material bondage.

There was a magnificent city named Alakapuri, which was ruled by Lord Kubera - an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva.  He had a very sincere gardener named Hemamali.  He attentively gathers flowers from the Lake Manasarovar and provide to Lord Kubera for the daily worship of Lord Shiva.  Hemamali had a beautiful wife – Visalakshy, both were devoted to each other.  As usual, one day Hemamali while returning after gathering flowers from the Lake Manasarovar, instead of visiting the palace he went home directly.  There he found his beautiful wife, got attracted towards her made him stop thinking about everything.  The beautiful time he had spent with his wife made him to forget his duty to visit the palace.  As a result, Lord Kubera’s worship of Lord Shiva on the day got delayed consequently could not complete his daily rituals.  Lord Kubera was extremely disappointed at the irresponsible act of Hemamali and sent a messenger to find out the reason for the absence of Hemamali’s visit. 

 

The messenger brought the news that Hemamali was having pleasurable time  with his wife Vishalakshi.  Lord Kubera ordered his men to produce Hemamali before the assembly.  With great anguish, trembling feet and ashamed of his lustful act Hemamali appeared before Lord Kubera.  In a fury Lord Kubera cursed him for his immoral act that caused obstacle for the daily worship of Lord Shiva.  He cursed Hemamali to badly affect with leprosy; this would cause him to remain separated from his dearest wife forever. 

Being cursed by Lord Kubera, Hemamali discarded from Alakapuri and took birth on Earth.  Hemamali’s life has become miserable with the physical and mental distress, wandered aimlessly through the dense forest.  With all sorts of mental agonies, physical pains, lack of sleep added with hunger and thirst Hemamali arrived at Mount Himalaya.  Fortunately, he met with the Sage Markandeya.   Hemamali kept fair distance from the Sage and repeatedly paid obeisance to him.  The most compassionate Sage Markandeya called for him and enquired the reason for his dreadful condition.  Hemamali explained the reason for the curse and his pitiable state of living.  After listening to Hemamali, Sage Markandeya advised him to observe the auspicious and the most rewarding Yogini Ekadashi.   Hemamali’s joy has no bounds.  As instructed by the great Sage Markandeya, Hemamali observed  Yogini Ekadashi with utmost faith and devotion.  The piety he has achieved by the observance of  Yogini Ekadashi made him to regain his original form.  Once again, Hemamali reunited with his wife and lived happily ever after.

 

Lord Krishna continued, the devoutness attained by observing Yogini Ekadashi would be equal to the piety of feeding eighty eight thousand Brahmins.  Whoever observes Yogini Ekadashi with utmost faith and devotion would eradicates all their sins and provide highest of the merit known as ‘Salvation’.

Jai Sriman Narayana !!

Why do we visit Temple?

Jai Sriman Narayana !!

The reproduced below is an article by Mr.Rangaraj regarding a few superior reasons to visit temples which could contribute intrinsic values abundantly.  Those are essentials for the growth of human beings mentally, physically and spiritually as well.  The simple gestures like Pradakshina (circumambulating the deity), Namaskaras (obeisance), consuming the holy Theertha (sacred water after the ritual bath of the idol) and visualizing the Deeparadhana etc.. during our visit to temple makes lot of changes in our lives as I mentioned  earlier.  I am sure, Mr. Rangaraj did a wonderful job to assimilate all those beautiful essence in a few simple words.  Enjoy reading!!

Generally, the temples are located in a place where earth's magnetic wave path densely passes through. It can be iether in the out skirt of the town/village or city or even in middle of the dwelling place, or on a hilltop. The essence of visiting a temple is considered as the most auspicious act, one must  pay twice a day visit on daily basis to the Temples  located nearby places. In simple terms, these temples are located strategic to a place where the positive energy is abundantly available from the magnetic wave distributions of north/south pole thrust.  Because of its location where high magnetic values are available, the Main Idol is placed in the core center, and also because they place a copper plate written with some Vedic scripts, which is buried, beneath the Main Idol's placement known as "Garbhagriha" or Moolasthan (Sanctum Santorum), the copper absorbs the earth’s magnetic waves and radiates to the surroundings. Thus, a person who regularly visit  temple and circumambulates the Main Idol automatically receive the beamed magnetic values absorbed in their body. This is very slow and a regular visit will make them absorb more and more energy, which is scientifically known as positive energy.   In addition, the Sanctum sanctorum is completely enclosed on three sides, thereby the effect of all energies will be very high. The lamp that is lit radiates the heat and light energy. The ringing of the bells and the chanting of prayers gives the sound energy. The fragrance from the flowers, the burning of camphor gives out the chemical energy. The effect of all these energies is activated by the positive energy that comes out of the idol. This is in addition to the north/south pole magnetic energy that is absorbed by the copper plate and utensils that are kept in the Moolasthan known as grabagraham. The water is used for the Pooja is mixed with Cardamom, Benzoine, Holy Basil (Tulsi), Clove, etc. are mixed that is known as "Theertham". This water becomes more energized because it receives the positiveness of all these energies combined. When persons go to the temple for the Deepaaraadhana,  when the doors open up, the positive energy gushes out onto the persons. The water that is sprinkled onto the people passes on the energy to all. That is the reason why the men are not allowed to wear shirts  inside the temple and ladies have to wear more ornaments  while their visit to temple,  it is through these jewels (metal) the positive energy passes through to their body . It is also proved that Theertham is a very good blood purifier, as it is highly energized. Hence it is given as Prasadam to the devotees.

The energy which we have lost in a day’s work can be  regained in this way and one gets being refreshed slightly. The positive energy that is spread out in the entire temple and especially around where the main idol is placed, are simply absorbed in one's body and mind, for those who circumambulate.  In addition to it,  at the temples they offer holy water as theertha in  spoons. This water is the main a source of magneto therapy kind because usually they place the copper water vessel at the Garbhagriha. It also contains the values of cardamom, clove, saffron, etc to add taste and Tulsi (holy Basil) leaves are put into the water to increase its medicinal value! The clove essence protects one from tooth decay, the saffron & Tulsi leave essence protects one from common cold and cough, cardamom and benzoine known as Pachha Karpuram,  acts as a mouth refreshing agents! This way, one's health is also protected, by regularly visiting the Temples . The entire thing just become more energized locally, that the visit and consuming the holy water and the other offerings are worth for the visitor's health and longevity.

Apart from the above facts, each and every round taken in the temple is just simply burning fats in human body and in those days people regularly visited temples and never used to get sugar complaints/diabetic! In addition to it the Vedic chanting helps visitors some refreshing feeling in body and mind thus achieving mental peace, which is the ultimate aim of every soul. And in those days, it was quite rare; you'll see persons with Sugar level high in their blood. In fact, the regular round trip to the temple itself protects one from increasing sugar levels and health risks. 

Jai Sriman Narayana !!

Purnima/Dev Snan Purnima/Lunar Eclipse on 15th June, 2011 !!

Jai Sriman Narayana !!

Jyeshta Purnima  and Lunar Eclipse  ( From 11.53 PM To 3.33 AM) falls on 15^th June, 2011. 

On this auspicious day of Deva Snana Purnima, fasting and worship of Lord Shiva  brings abundance of virtues.  The performance of sacred bath (Abhisehkam) to Lord Shiva is part of the austerity.   Holy dip in the sacred river before sun rise or at home,   visiting holy places on this day, take holy dip on the theerthas and provide alms to Brahmins are treated as auspicious.  The worshipper observes fast on this day and worship Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva with the Bhog (Kheer).  Worship of Lord Chandra and Lord Surya also takes place on this day.     On the next day, the invited Brahmins are offered with food and  alms.

On this day of Deva Snana Purnamia,  the sacred bathing ceremony of Lord Jagannatha is performed with hundred and eight pitcher of water.  The sacred water brought from the well near Sitala Temple in the vicinity of Purushothama Kshetram (Puri Jagannatha ).  The idol  of Lord Jagannatha, Lord Balabadra and Subhadra along with Sudarsana brought into the Snan Mandap for the ceremonial bath .  After the ceremonial bathe Lord Jagannatha gives His appearance as Lord Ganesha.  The legend has that, once an ardent devotee of Lord Ganesha and a renowned scholar visited Puri Jagannatha on Jyeshta Purnima day.  The King of Orissa provided him with ample rewards for his scholarly skills and advised him to visit Lord Jagannatha on his way back.   The scholar refused to visit Puri Jagannatha or worship any other deities other than Lord Ganesha and wanted to remain as an ardent devotee of Lord Ganesha.  After continuous persuasion of the people accompanied, the scholar moved towards the Snana Vedi of Lord Jagannatha.  Alas ! sheer to his dismay Lord Jagannatha gave dharshan as Lord Ganesha.  Ever since, after the ceremonial bath Lord Jagannatha gives dharshan to His devotees as Lord Ganesha.

After the ceremonial bath on the Purnima day, the deities are placed on the Ratna Vedi and continued to be there for fifteen days.  During these fifteen days, the dharshan of Lord Jagannatha remains closed for grand reveal.  On the 16^th day Lord Jagannatha gives His majestic Dharshan to his devotees, it is believed that whoever gets dharshan of Lord Jagannatha on this day; all their sins are washed off.

Jai Sriman Narayana !!