Author: kajmani

  • Goddess Gayatri, History of Gayatri Mantra

    Gayatri Devi is an incarnation of Saraswati Devi, symbolising the shakti (strength) and dev (quality) of Knowledge, Purity and Virtue. Includes several audio extracts of the Gayatri Mantra which will help in correct pronunciation. Audio by Ravi Shankar, Ratan Mohan Sharma, Pandit Jasraj.

  • Diwali – Lakshmi and Ganesha Puja

    The biggest celebration for Hindus, the festival of lights (Diwali or Deepavali), is celebrated on the amavasya night of the month of Ashvin (usually in late October or early November). The festival, which celebrates among many things, the return of Lord Rama (of the Ramayana) to his native land of Ayodhya after completing fourteen years…

  • Dhanteras – First Day of Diwali

    Dhanteras is celebrated on the thirteenth day (teras) of the Krishna paksha (the waning cycle) of the lunar month of Ashwin in the Hindu calendar. It heralds the beginning of the five days of Diwali, the biggest festival for Hindus in India and all over the world.

  • Sharad Poornima – The beginning of Autumn

    Sharad Poornima is celebrated on the full moon night in the month of Ashwin according to the Hindu calendar. It is celebrated in various parts of India in various forms, and heralds the beginning of the autumn harvest season. Some of the rituals and festivals associated with Sharad Poornima are – Read more…

  • Raksha Bandhan or Rakhi – The Bond of Love and Protection

    Raksha Bandhan (the bond – Bandhan of protection – Raksha) is a Hindu festival, which celebrates the love between brothers and sisters. It is celebrated on the full moon (poornima) of the month of Shraavan. This article discusses the different ways that Raksha Bandhan is celebrated across India, the legends behind the festival and the…

  • Guru Poornima – Celebrating the Guru

    The Purnima (Full Moon) day in the month of Ashadha (July-August) is known as Guru Purnima. Oh Guru, you are father, mother, brother, friend, knowledge and wealth. The ideal Guru is a facilitator and encourages the disciple to go and seek beyond that which is taught by the Guru. But what are the qualities of…