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Yantras in Sanatana Dharma and Tantra Shastra

The word ‘Yantra’ finds its origin in the word ‘yam’ which means to govern, contain or control. Yantras are a symbolic representation of a Devi /Devata. In tantric tradition, there is no differentiation between the deity and the yantra.

Significance of Ayyappa Worship 

Sabarimala has been a place of worship that has attracted people irrespective of religion, caste or creed. The first day of the Vrischika month marks the start of the 41 day mandala period during which tens of thousands of devotees begin their pilgrimage. People flock to catch a glimpse of the Lord and to offer their garlands and irumudis to Ayyappa after climbing the 18 holy steps following a bath in the holy Pampa River. 

Sabarimala has been a place of worship that has attracted people irrespective of religion, caste or creed. The first day of the Vrischika month marks the start of the 41 day mandala period during which tens of thousands of devotees begin their pilgrimage. People flock to catch a glimpse of the Lord and to offer their garlands and irumudis to Ayyappa after climbing the 18 holy steps following a bath in the holy Pampa River.

Ayyappan is shown in a manner that is different to other Hindu deities. Every other deity in Hindu worship is shown either standing, sitting or lying down. However, Ayyappan is shown meditating in a Yogasana that looks like he is squatting, but with all his weight on the front of his feet. This rather uncomfortable posture is indicative of a foundation based on firm discipline. Ayyappa is a Naishtika Brahmachari and the silk cloth that is used to bind his legs represents his control over the senses.

Pilgrims to the Sabarimala temple are given a Tulsi mala by their Guru Swamy, marking the first day of their mandala kalam commitments. Devotees that embark on the pilgrimage to Sabarimalai take on a vow to observe strict discipline austerities for the 41 day period before the temple visit. This involves wearing black, giving up creative comforts for the duration, consuming only sattvic and home cooked food, performing puja twice daily, observing celibacy and restraining their words and actions through the period. 

It is general belief that anyone that is able to get through 41 consecutive days of utmost discipline and self-restraint with utmost faith will have their desires fulfilled. Due to the arduous nature of the austerities to be followed, women between the ages of 10 and 50 are not allowed at Sabarimalai.

Everything you wanted to know about Vibhuti

Vibuti, also commonly known as Tiruneer or Bhasmam is a a sacred ash that is used by Hindus, especially those that follow Shaivism. But generally speaking, the word Vibhuti refers to the great power or siddhis, and is used in the context of God. The adjective ‘Vibhatva’ in Sanskrit is used to describe the power that Nature possesses to create, maintain and even destroy the universe. And the aura that radiates from this kind of power is called vibhati.

The Indian Festival of Dolls

One of the most important festivals that is celebrated across India is Navaratri, dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga. Navaratri is a period of nine consecutive days during which devotees fast and also perform various Pujas and rituals for the Divine Mother in the evenings/nights. Although there are various Navaratris throughout the year, the one that occurs during the autumn, in the Sharad month is most popular and elaborate. This festival is celebrated quite grandly by Indians across the globe adopting new and modern ways of celebrating, with each passing year.

Mindfullness and its roots in Hinduism

In recent years, mindfulness has become an increasingly popular practice, especially in the Western world. It has become an important tool that psychologists advocate to deal with a variety of stress related problems in children and adults alike. It involves paying attention to the present moment and being fully engaged in what we're doing, without judgment or distraction. The word ‘mindfulness’ is a really good one and one wonders if there is an equivalent in any Indian language. Although the west has, as always, given the impression that it is a concept they have developed recently, it has in fact been practised for generations and inspired by Hindu traditions.

The concept of Daanam in Hindu Culture

Daanam or charity holds a very high place in Santana Dharma. In fact, the scriptures even say that Daanam is our dharma! It advocates that even if one has just a penny, a part of it has to be set aside for daanam. It is considered a virtuous act that brings good karma and is a way to cultivate compassion and generosity with the aim of having a more equitable society. However, many daanams are also prescribed to negate the ill effects of one’s sufferings as well.

In Mahabharata, it is indicated that Knowledge is the friend while traveling; the wife is the friend at home; medicine is the friend of the sick and Daanam is the friend of one who is going to die ie.everyone.

Homams – History, Current trends and practices

Almost everyone has a firm belief that any endeavour needs the blessing of the Almighty in order to be a success. For centuries, Hindus have been performing Homam’s or Havan which is essentially a spiritual ritual that involves a holy sacrificial fire. The fire or Agni is invoked as an agent to carry material and symbolic offerings to God. Homams are usually conducted by priests learned in Vedas and shastras on behalf of a family. The belief is that making specific offerings to specific deities will not only result in the successful attainment of any petition that is made, but also grant good health, wealth and prosperity. Therefore, various Homams exist depending on which sect one belongs to or which deity one is propitiating, or what one would like