Category: Mantras

  • 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.

  • 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…

  • Pitra Paksha – Remembering our Ancestors

    Pitra Paksha, also known as “Shraadh” or “Mahalaya”, is a fortnight (fourteen days) dedicated to paying homage to our departed ancestors. It is observed during the dark fortnight of Ashwin or Aswayauja and usually occurs in September/October. The last day of the Pitra Paksha is known as “Mahalaya Amavasya” – the final night of the…

  • Significance and Observance of Guru Purnima

    The full moon day in the Hindu month of Ashaad (July-August) is considered extremely auspicious and is observed as a day to pay homage to, and celebrate the presence of the divine Gurus or teachers in our lives. It is an occasion to meditate on the Guru and also provides a unique opportunity for new…

  • Gayatri Mantra from RigVeda

    Tat Savitur Varenyam Bhargo Devasya Dheemahi Dhiyo Yo Na Prachodayaat! तत सवितुर वरेण्यम भर्गो देवस्य धीमहि धियो यो न प्रचोदयात! We meditate on the brilliant light of the creator. Who has created the Universe. Who is worthy of Worship. Who is the embodiment of Knowledge and Light. Who is the remover of all Sin and…