Unknown Facts from Mahabharata

One warrior from Shri Krishna’s army did not fight alongside Duryodhana, contrary to the arrangement

This is a well known fact that Shri Krishna promised his army to Duryodhana, and he said that he will accompany Pandavas in the war, yet there was one person from his army, who helped Pandavas. He was Satyaki and he was like a disciple to Arjuna. He has helped Pandavas greatly when Drona was trying to capture Yudhishthira with the formation of chakravyuha.  Satyaki was rescued by Arjuna when Bhurisharava was trying to kill him and eventually Satyaki killed Bhurishravas. This happened on the fourteenth day of Mahabharata war.

Satyaki defeated Drona

Satyaki even engaged in a long fight with Drona, in which he breaks Drona’s bowstring 101 times successively. Drona gets so frustrated by Satyaki, that he even uses divine weapons, which Satyaki counters using his knowledge of divine weapons from his education under Arjuna.

Another fact about Satyaki

When Shri Krishna went to Duryodhana for one final attempt to maintain peace, Satyaki accompanied him. It was then when Duryodhana ordered him to be imprisoned, Satyaki draws his sword to fight. But Shri Krishna holds him back.

Krishna and Satyaki
Krishna and Satyaki

 

Death of Satyaki

Satyaki dies when the curse of Gandhari came to its fulfillment. Satyaki in anger said that he would kill Kritavarma for slaying the warriors of the Pandava army while they were asleep. Having said this he rushed towards Kritavarma and severed his head with a sword. He then started killing the warriors who were on Kritavarma’s side. Krishna then ran to stop Satyaki.

The Bhojas and the Andhakas incensed at Satyaki surrounded him. Krishna knowing the character of the hour stood there unmoved. The Bhojas and Andhakas started striking Satyaki with the pots in which they had been eating.

Bhagdatta and his eyelids

There is an interesting story of Bhagdatta’s eyelids. Bhagdatta was a fierce warrior who fought from the side of Duryodhana. He used Vaishnavastra on Arjuna, but as Lord Krishna was there, it fell upon him as a garland. Shri Krishna then advised Arjuna to first cut the support to his eyelids, as Bhagdatta was old and his eyelids were blocking the vision. He used to tie them up so that he could see properly. Duly, Arjuna cut the ropes holding his eyelids. This made him virtually blind, and then Arjuna killed him.

Arjuna kills Bhagaddatta
Arjuna kills Bhagaddatta

Bhima was captured by a python – Nahusha

There were few times in Mahabharata, when even Bhima was helpless. One was a great lesson of humbleness with Lord Hanumana. Another is presented here. What happened that there was a king named Nahusha, who became the gods of devtas. He became arrogant and wanted to marry Shachi. Shachi convinced him to come in palanquin, which should be shouldered by great sages. Nahusha did the same and even went one step further by kicking Sage Agastya. By doing this, he lost all his virtue and also became a python by the curse of Sage Agastya. But he was told that when Yudhishthira explained him the virtues of good king, he will become a man again.

Nahusha's downfall
Nahusha’s downfall

When Lord Krishna moved calendar

Sahadeva, the youngest Pandava was a great astrologer. Once, on the request of Duryodhana, he advises Duryodan the most auspecious time for stating the war will be the amavasya day. Lord Krishna overheard this and plans to do what next. Krishna performs amaysya tarpan one day earlier to the scheduled data and seeing Krishna performing tarpan one day earlier everybody starts doing the same. Seeing this,  moon god and sun god  comes down and ask Krisna why he is performing tarpan one day earlier .To this, Lord asked when does Amavasya happen? It is not when sun and moon face each other? They replied yes. Then Lord said that then today is amavasya since both you are facing each other. Unfortunately Duryodana also performs tarpan on a day prior to real amavasya and brings his downfall.

Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga – Lord Shiva temple

Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga – Lord Shiva’s temple

Bhimashankar Temple is a Jyotirlinga  located 50 km northwest of Khed, near Pune, in Maharashtra. Bhima Shankar Temple lies on the banks of the river Bhima, in the ghat region of the Sahyadri hills in the village of Bhavagiri.

Legend behind Bhimashankar Temple

In the dence forest of Dakini, there lived a demon named Bhima with his mother Karkati. Bhima harassed and tortured everyone. Once he asked his mother about the details of his father. His mother told him that his father Kumbhakarna is the younger brother of Ravana, the king of Lanka. Both his father and uncle were slain by Lord Rama. She told her that Lord Rama was incarnation of Lord Vishnu. This infuriated Bhima and he vowed to avenge Lord Vishnu.

Defeat of Devas by Bhima and Kamrupeshwar’s devotion to Lord Shiva

Bhima performed severe penance to please Lord Brahma. Pleased, Brahma granted him the boon of becoming a very strong man. With this new strength, he captured all the divines including Vishnu and Indra. They were in his control. After this he won a victory over the great Shiva devotee Kamarupeshwar. Kamarupeshwar did not stop his worship of Shiva even when in prison. He performed the Puja with the same devotion, observing all the procedures his wife also joined him in this.

Bhimashankar Temple Jyotirlinga

Bhimashankar Temple Jyotirlinga

On the other hand, Brahma and Vishnu along with all the other divines started praying Shankara and of asking for deliverance from the wicked Demon King. Shiva assured the divines and sent them home after pacifying them.

Lord Shiva defeats Bhima

Bhima asked Kamrupeshwar to worship him instead of Lord Shiva. When Kamrupeshwar refused, Bhima raised his sword to strike the Shiva Linga. But as soon as he raised his sword, Lord Shiva appeared before him in full magnificence. Then the terrible war began. Holy sage Narad appeared and requested Lord Shiva to put an end to this war. It was then that Lord Shiva reduced the evil demon to ashes and thus concluded the saga of tyranny. All the Gods and the holy sages present there requested Lord Shiva to make this place his abode. Lord Shiva thus manifested himself in the form of the Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga.

Another story from Puran

There is another famous story about Bhimashankar. In ancient days there was a demon named Tripurasura, He harass and torture everybody in all three world namely Swarga, Naraka and Patal. Every one even Gods were scared of him.  Then Lord Shiva himself came to destroy Tripurasura. Lord Shankar assumed colossal proportions. Tripurasura feared when they saw this Rudravatar. The fight went on and at last Lord Shiva killed the wicked demon and set the there worlds free. After the fight Lord shiva was very tired so in order to get some rest he settled in the high areas of Sahyadri mountains. His sweat started pouring down from his huge body in thousands of streams. It all joined together and collected in a pond or Kund. The river that started from there is known as Bhima, which can be seen even today. Devotees then prayed to Bhimakaya Rudra to reside there for ever.  Lord Shiva listened to the devotees and stayed there as a Jyotirlinga forever.

Bhimashankar jyotirlinga

Bhimashankar jyotirlinga

 Architecture and surroundings

The Bhimashankara temple is a composite of old and the new structures in the Nagara style of architecture.  It is a modest yet graceful temple and it dates back to the 13th century and the sabhamandap developed in the 18th century by Nana Phadnavis.  The Diwan of the Peshwar, Nana Phadanvis renovated this temple.  It is decorated with the Dashavatar statues. These are very beautiful to look at. A unique and a huge bell can be seen in front of the the temple was presented by Chimaji Appa. (brother of Bajirao Peshwa). Chimaji Appa collected five large bells after he won in war against the Portuguese from Vasai Fort. When this bell is rung, the entire echoes with its sound.

Bhiashankar is declared as wildlife sanctuary in 1985.  It is rich in floral and fauna diversity. . A variety of birds, animals, insects, plants can be seen. A rare animal Malabar Giant squirrel locally called as ” Shekaru” can be found in deep forest.  It is said that the lions from these forests come to the shrine every night to get a Darshan of the Lord.

It seems as if Lord Shiva is keeping a silent vigil over the majestic ranges of the Sahyadris. The serenity interrupted only by the silent murmuring of the cool breeze and the occasional chirping of birds

Other temples and shrines 

There is a shrine to Kamalaja near the Bhimashankara temple. Kamalaja is an incarnation of Parvati, who helped Shiva in his battle against Tripurasura.  Shaakini and Daakini the Shivaganas who helped Shiva in the battle against the demon are also honored and worshiped here.

The Mokshakund thirtha is behind the Bhimashankara temple, and it is associated with the rishi Kaushika. There are also the Sarvathirtha, the Kusharanya thirtha where the Bhima river begins to flow eastward, and the Jyanakund.

Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga – Lord Shiva

Omkareshwar is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of Lord Shiva. The Temple of Lord Omkareshwar is situated on the banks of River Narmada, in between Indore & Khandwa. The temple is situated on an island, which is encircled by the Narmada River. The island is known as Mandhata island.

Omkareshwar Temple of Lord Shiva

This holy temple is situated in Madhya Pradesh, in the Khandwa district. This is situated on Mandhata island. An interesting fact about the island is that this is in the shape of Om symbol. Here are two temple, one of Omkareshwar and other of Mamleshwar or Amareshwar.

Omkareshwar Temple

Omkareshwar Temple

The Temple

The main Omkareswar temple is built in the North Indian style of architecture, with high spires.  The sanctum sanctorum containing the Jyotirlinga seems to have been originally a small temple of the old construction style, the dome being made of layers of stone slabs.

Puja at Omkareshwar Temple

There are three regular ‘Pujas’ in the temple. The morning puja done by the temple trust, the middle one by the priest of Scindia state and in evening by the priest of the Holkar state. The temple is always crowded with pilgrims, coming after a immersion in the Narmada and with pots full of Narmada water, coconuts and articles of worship, many of them performing Abhishek or special worships through the priests.
During fair or ‘Parva’ times there are heavy crowds in the temple. On every Monday, the gold plates three headed idol of Lord Omkar is taken in a palanquin with bands, drums , priests. The  devotees gather in procession known as Dola. First, they go to the river where worship is performed, and then through the streets of the town.

In the holy month of shravan, the processions take place, known as “Somvar Sawaris”. These are huge and grand. The crowds dance uttering the Lord’s name “Om Shambhu Bholenath”. In this procession, throwing Gulal making the atmosphere red.

Three Legends of Omkareshwar

Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga also has its own history and many stories. Out of these, three of them are prominent.

First story

This is about Vindhya Parvat (Mount). Once upon a time, Sage Narada (son of Lord Brahma), visited Vindhya parvat. In his spicy way, Narada told Vindhya Parvat about the greatness of Mount Meru.

This made Vindhya jealous of Meru and he decided to be bigger than Meru. Vindhya started worship of Lord Shiva to become greater than Meru. Vindhya Parvat practiced severe penance and worshipped parthivlinga (A linga made from physical material) along with Lord Omkareshwar for nearly six months.

As a result, Lord Shiva was pleased and blessed him with his desired boon. On a request of all the gods and the sages, Lord Shiva made two parts of the lingas. One half is called Omkareshwara and the other Mamaleshwar or Amareshwar.

Lord Shiva gave the boon of growing to Vindhya mountain, but took a promise that Vindhya will never be a problem to Shiva’s devotees. Vindhya began to grow, but did not keep his promise. It even obstructed the sun and the moon.

Soon, all deities approached sage Agastya for help. Agastya along with his wife came to Vindhya, and convinced him that he would not grow until the sage and his wife returned.

They never returned and Vindhya is there as it was when they left. The sage and his wife stayed in Srisailam which is regarded as Dakshina Kashi and one of the Dwadash Jyotirlinga.

Second Story

The second story relates to Mandhata and his son’s penance. King Mandhata of Ishvaku clan (an ancestor of Lord Ram) worshipped Lord Shiva here till the Lord manifested himself as a Jyotirlinga. Some scholars also narrate the story about Mandhata’s sons-Ambarish and Mucchkund, who had practiced severe penance and austerities here and pleased Lord Shiva. Because of this the mountain is named Mandhata.

Third Story

The third story from Hindu scriptures says that once upon a time there was a great war between Devas and Danavas(demon), in which Danavas won. This was a major setback for Devas and hence Devas prayed to Lord Shiva. Pleased with their prayer, Lord Shiva emerged in the form of Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga and defeated Danavas.

Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga – Lord Shiva as Mahakal

Lord Shiva is worshipped as Mahakala. Located in the ancient city of Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh, is the temple of Mahakaleshwar. This temple is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India.  There is an interesting story which explains about the Mahakaleshwar form of Shiva. This form of Lord Shiva is a fierce form which is beyond imagination and description. This story took place when Ujjain was known as Avanti and is mentioned in the Shiva Purana.

Lord Shiva as Mahakal

Lord Shiva as Mahakal

The Story of Mahakala

Once there lived a pious man in Avanti (nowadays Ujjain),  who was an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva. He had four sons and the family worshipped Lord Shiva daily.

Not far away from their home in a hill named Ratanmala. There lived an Asura (demon) named Dooshana. Demon Dooshana hated all forms of Shiva and vedic worship. He went around killing people who worshipped Shiva. Soon Dooshana came to know about the family in Avanti that worshipped Lord Shiva.

He arrived with his army and attacked the city. But the family continued to worship Shiva in the form of a Shivling.

Finally, the demon and soldiers reached the home of the pious man and started hurling weapons. The demon broke open the door and advanced towards the Shivling by raising a sword.

Suddenly, there was a deafening sound and there appeared a dreadful form beyond explanation before the Shivling. A single glance by the Mahakala form of Shiva burned the demon and his army into ashes. Uncontrollable and unsatisfied, the form of Shiva gave a huge roar; the entire universe trembled in fear.

But the family was but delighted to see Lord Shiva and continued chanting his glory and prayers. Before his true devotees, Shiva is always the Bholenath – one can be easily influenced. Hearing the prayers of his devotees, His anger subsided.

But the family who was aware of the dangers of the world realized that the form of Shiva as Mahakala was essential for peace and prosperity and asked him to reside in this form at Ujjain. Since then Shiva remains at Ujjain Mahakala Temple as Mahakala – the one with the power to annihilate all living and non-living.

Unknown facts about the Mahakaleshwar Temple

One of the oldest places of pilgrimage, the temple finds mention in ancient texts and scriptures and has been eulogised by the great Sanskrit poet and dramatist in emotive terms.

Mahakaleshwar Temple, with its astonishing architectural beauty, dominates the skyline of Ujjain and instills a sense of reverence among the devotees. The lingam at this spiritually important shrine is believed to be swayambhu (self-arisen).

Mahakaleshwar Ujjain

Mahakaleshwar Temple at Ujjain

The idol of Mahakaleshwar is known to be dakshinamurti, which means that it is facing the south. This is a unique feature, upheld by the tantric shivnetra tradition to be found only in Mahakaleshwar among the 12 Jyotirlingas. The idol of Omkareshwar Mahadev is consecrated in the sanctum above the Mahakal shrine. The images of Ganesh, Parvati and Karttikeya are installed in the west, north and east of the sanctum sanctorum.

To the south is the image of Nandi, the vehicle of Lord Shiva. The idol of Nagchandreshwar on the third storey is open for darshan only on the day of Nag Panchami. The temple has five levels, one of which is underground.

The temple itself is located in a spacious courtyard surrounded by massive walls near a lake. The shikhar or the spire is adorned with sculptural finery. Brass lamps light the way to the underground sanctum. It is believed that prasada (holy offering) offered here to the deity can be re-offered unlike all other shrines.

Bhasma Aarti at Mahakaleshwar

One of the most important rituals of Mahakaleshwar is Bhasma Aarti. The temple opens in the morning at 4AM with a special aarti – the one of its kind Bhasma Aarti – where the aarti is performed with sacred ash – Bhasma. Since ancient times, this bhasma used to be the fresh and burning hot ash from a funeral pyre, since Lord Shiva is believed to live in and enjoy the atmosphere of a cremation ground. However, now, the temple has changed its ways in keeping with modern times and the aarti is now performed with bhasma made with cow dung, what we call Vibhooti.

Mahakal Bhasma Aarti at Ujjain

Mahakal Bhasma Aarti at Ujjain

While those who have seen the original aarti (which was performed till about 15years ago) maintain that it was a different experience which can not be recreated. The present aarti is also a grand experience.

Another Legend of Mahakal

According to the Puranas, the city of Ujjain was called Avantika and was famous for its beauty and its status as a devotional epicenter. It was also one of the primary cities where students went to study holy scriptures. According to legend, there was a ruler of Ujjain called Chandrasena, who was a pious devotee of Lord Shiva and worshiped him all the time. One day, a farmer’s boy named Shrikhar was walking on the grounds of the palace and heard the King chant the Lord’s name and rushed to the temple to start praying with him. However, the guards removed him by force and sent him to the outskirts of the city near the river Kshipra. Rivals of Ujjain, primarily King Ripudamana and King Singhaditya of the neighboring kingdoms decided to attack the Kingdom and take over its treasures around this time. Hearing this, Shrikhar started to pray and the news spread to a priest named Vridhi. He was shocked to hear this and upon the urgent pleas of his sons, started to pray to Lord Shiva at the river Kshipra. The Kings chose to attack and were successful; with the help of the powerful demon Dushan, who was blessed by Lord Brahma to be invisible, they plundered the city and attacked all the devotees of Lord Shiva.

Mahakaleshwar Shivji

Mahakaleshwar Shivji

Upon hearing the pleas of His helpless devotees, Lord Shiva appeared in his Mahakala form and destroyed the enemies of King Chandrasena. Upon the request of his devotees Shrikhar and Vridhi, Lord Shiva agreed to reside in the city and become the chief deity of the Kingdom and take care of it against its enemies and to protect all His devotees. From that day on, Lord Shiva resided in His light form as Mahakala in a Lingam that was formed on its own from the powers of the Lord and His consort, Parvati. The Lord also blessed his devotees and declared that people who worshipped Him in this form would be free from the fear of death and diseases. Also, they would be granted worldly treasures and be under the protection of the Lord himself.

Draupadi and Pandavas born due to a curse

There are many stories which establish the fact that why Draupadi had to become wife of five brothers, but this story is rather less known, where it was due to curse of Goddess Parvati, Draupadi became wife of five Pandavas. Similarly, it was curse of Lord Shiva, which resulted in five gods to bore children in Pandavas.

Ketaki and Daksha

Ketaki was the daughter of Daksha Prajapati. She was very beautiful. Because of her beauty and demeanor, she earned lot of fame. This made her arrogant. When her father asked her to get married, She refused saying that she can not find any person worthy of marrying her. So, she decided to spend her entire life under the shelter of Lord Shiva in Himalayas. Accordingly, She went to Himalayas and started her penance.

Ketaki

Ketaki

Curse of Goddess Parvati

Once Goddess Parvati thought of testing her. Parvati disguised as a cow reached the plac ewhere Ketaki was meditating and started bellowing loudly. Ketaki was disturbed so she uttered some foul words for the cow. Hearing this, Goddess Parvati came into her real form and cursed her. She said in your arrogance you can’t find any male worth marrying you so you will have to go down to earth and be common wife of five men.

Parvati relents

On recognizing Parvati, Ketaki fell in her feet for apology. Parvati said her curse is immutable, but this will be as a blessing in disguise for her. Even after being a common wife of five husbands, your wifely devotion shall remain intact and then realms Parvati left.

Sadness of Ketaki and Indrani’s wish

Ketaki was sitting at the bank of Ganga, her tear drops that fell on the water become golden lotus and began to float in the current. Indra spoted them and took few flowers for his wife Indrani. Indrani was delighted to have them. Indrani longed to have more of them and said that the right place of blooming was the pond in the heaven.

Indra sends Gods to find the flower

Indra send Dharamraj to find the origin of the flower. When he didn’t return, Indra send Vayu dev behind him. But, when he also failed to return Indra send Ashwini Kumars to find the golden lotus. But after long time when none of them returned Indra decided to go and search himself.

Indra meets Ketaki

Indra found Ketaki sitting on the bank of Ganga. Charmed by her beauty he sought her identity. Ketaki said she is daughter of Daksha Prajapati and she was there to do her penance and meditation. Indra said that meditation and penance are for elderly sage and offered her to marry him and enjoy the pleasure of heaven.

Keatki was hurt by the offer and said your four deites have already suffered the consequence of giving me such offer and if you seek your welfare you should return to your abode.

Ketaki shows helpless gods to Indra

Indra immedately understood that the four deities referred to by her were none else but Dharamraj, Vayu, Ashwini Kumars. When Indra inquired further about them. Ketaki took him to a deep cave where four deities were lying tied down. On seeing them Indra lost temper and said though you pretend to be ascetic, but  your heart is full of demonic tendencies. Do you know the consequence of holding them in captive.

Indra meets the protector of Ketaki

Ketaki said, thet they are being held n captive by her protector. Indra found an ascetic with long matted hair lost in meditation in a cave. Indra in arrogance began to utter some foul words for the ascetic. But when the ascetic came in his real form Indra was shocked to see that he he was no one else then Lord Shiva himself.

Lord Shiva

Lord Shiva

Lord Shiva curses five Gods

Lord Shiva thundered that Ketaki is like a daughter to him and since Indra and his deities have insulted her so you five have to go down on earth as human being.

Ketaki and Lord Shiva

Ketaki and Lord Shiva

Lord shiva said that in Dwapar Age, Lord Vishnu will incarnate as human being, at that time you five will also live on earth as human being, and at that time Ketaki shall be your common wife. In this way, your desire to have her shall be satiated and you five will also help Lord Vishnu to establish the rule of righteousness on the earth. This way your curse will fructify as boon to you all.

Thus due to the effect of the collective curse of Lord Shiva and Devi Parvati, Pandavas got Draupadi as a common wife.

The gem which gave Lord Krishna two wives

 The Story of Syamantaka Gem, Jambavant duel with Lord Krishna and his marriage

Syamantaka gem, is a rare gem which had the power to bestow all sorts of good things to the person holding it. This jewel originally was with Sun God, who gave this to Satyajit, who was an ardent devotee of Sun God. Satyajit brought this gem to Dwarka, where Lord Krishna instructed him to give it to Ugrasena, but Satyajit did not listen.

Satyajit gave this to Prasen, who was once killed by a lion while he was wearing this gem. Shortly after, it was attacked by Jambavant, described as king of the ‘bears’ , who killed it after a fierce fight and took off with the bounty.

Lord Krishna and Jambavant

Lord Krishna and Jambavant

Prasen’s disappearance fed to rumour that Shri Krishna killed him, as he wanted the Gem himself. To get himself rid of this, he decided to solve the mystery, Soon he found the Prasen’s corpse, followed it and found Lion’s corpse and finally discovered Jambavant’s cave.

Soon a fierce battle was ensued between these two. After 28 days, Jambavant got tired and he wondered that who is this person who can stand up to him for a fight? He realized that he was none other than Lord Vishnu himself. He happily handed over the gem to Lord Krishna and got his daughter, Jambavati married to Lord.

Meanwhile, Lord Krishna’s companions, who waited for Krishna to come out of the cave, returned to Dwarka despondent. All of Krishna’s friends and family members became extremely sorrowful and began regularly worshiping Goddess Durga to assure the Lord’s safe return. Soon,  Krishna entered the city in the company of His new wife. He summoned Satrajit to the royal assembly and, after recounting to him the entire story of the Syamantaka jewel’s recovery, gave the jewel back to him.

Satrajit accepted the jewel, but with great shame and remorse. He went back to his home, and there he decided to offer Lord Krishna not only the jewel but also his daughter so as to atone for the offense he had committed against the Lord’s lotus feet. Sri Krishna accepted the hand of Satrajit’s daughter, Satyabhama, who was endowed with all divine qualities. But the jewel He refused, returning it to King Satrajit.

Lord Krishna and Satyabhama

Lord Krishna and Satyabhama

Note: Incidentally Lord Krishna’s battle with Jambavant is because of a boon given by Lord Rama. Jambavant, the played a major role in during the building of the bridge, appears in the Mahabharat. Lord Rama was pleased with Jambavant’s devotion and told him to ask for a boon. Jambavant wished for a duel with Lord Rama, which he granted, saying that it would be done in his next avatar.

More stories about Lord Krishna

Unveiling the Mysteries and Fascinating World of Lord Shiva

Har har Mahadev. Lord Shiva, the god of destruction has got softer sides of him also. Here are few stories, which will definitely be of interest to you.

 Lord Shiva had six sons

Shiva’s first son is Lord Ayyapa and not Lord Ganesha or Lord Kartikeya. People often forget that Shiva had more than just two sons. Shiva had 6 sons (Ayyapa, Andhaka, Bhauma, Khuja, Ganesh, and Karthikeya/Subramanya) and one daughter (Ashok Sundari).

Lord Ayappa, Ganesha and Kartikeya – Three sons of Shiva

Of these children, Ayyappa was oldest and Ganesha and Kartikeya are actually the youngest children.
Lord Ayyappa was born out of the union between God Shiva and Mohini, an avatar of Lord Vishnu. Ganesha and Kartikeya came long after Ayyappa, Andhaka, Bhauma, Khuja, and Ashok Sundari. It is believed Ashok Sundari was present at the time Ganesha was beheaded.

Lord Shiva in a smiling face is under the feet of angry Mother Kali

Perhaps the most humble lesson one can learn is from this legend. Lord Shiva, the Mahadev, is under the feet of Goddess Kali and smiling. He represents fury, anger and yet he is in his most benevolent form. Why is so? Read on.

Once upon a time, Goddess Kali was on a rampage. No demon, human or God stood a chance at stopping her blood-lust. A collective prayer was made to Lord Shiva by all beings to try to stop this Maha-Shakti form of his consort. Such was the power of the Goddess that wherever she set foot, absolute destruction followed suit.

The lord realized even he could not reason with such an elemental force. He had to reach out to her in terms of emotions. As such, he decided to lay down in the Goddess’ path. When Kali finally reached the spot where Lord was lying down, she did not notice him until she stepped on his chest.

So far, everything she was setting foot on was being destroyed. This was an exception, Kali was forced to look down and found the Lord there. Sudden realization dawned on her and she snapped out of her reverie and found herself extremely ashamed, sticking out her tongue instinctively as a sign of regret.

Maa Kali
Maa Kali

There are number of lessons here: No matter how resourceful one is, sometimes he has to deal with tact, as Lord did. Second, tricky situations can be overcome by thinking on your feet. In this story, we see shades of Lord Vishnu, when it comes to dealing with tact.

Lord Hanuman is an avatar of Lord Shiva

It is said that Bhagwan Hanuman is the eleventh reincarnation of the Lord. Also, Lord Hanuman is often recalled as Rudraavataar, or the reincarnation of Rudra and Shiva is also known as the Rudra.

The vanars or the ancestors of humans had helped Lord Rama (reincarnation of Lord Vishnu) in Ramayana.  Without their support, Rama could not have defeated Ravana.

Lord Hanuman is often worshipped for his devotion to Lord Rama and his part in the “good over evil.”  It is also depicted as the utter and infinite devotion of Lord Shiva to Lord Vishnu, as he reincarnated as a monkey and served him with all he had.

Lord Shiva and his family
Lord Shiva and his family

The Story of Amarnath cave

Amarnath cave is of utmost importance for followers of Lord. The legendary importance of Amarnath’s cave is related to the secret of immortality told to Lord Shiva’s wife Parvati. When Lord was insisted by his wife to reveal the secret of immortality, he decided to proceed towards the cave.

On his way to the cave he did a few things, which were great according to his devotees. Because of these few things, the entire way to the cave became blissful. Actually, in order to reveal the secret of amar katha, Lord left his son, vehicle, etc in various isolated places, which is why all these places seem like tirthasthal. There are two ways for Amarnath journey – Pahalgam and Sonmarg Baltal. According to mythology, Lord took the Pahalgam route to reach the cave.

Amarnath cave
Amarnath cave

Lord Shiva’s association with Nandi Bull

Lord Shiva and Nandi are inseparable. Nandi is the vehicle for the Hindu god of Shiva. In Hindu mythology, Nandi is the bearer of truth and righteousness. This story describes how Lord became associated with the bull Nandi.

One day, Surabhi, who was the original mother of all the world’s cows, began to give birth to an untold number of perfectly white cows.The milk from all these cows flooded the home of Lord.

Somewhere in the Himalaya. Angry at this disturbance to his meditation, the god struck the cows with fire from his third eye. In consequence, patches of the cows’ hides were turned brown. Still angry, the other gods sought to calm Lord down by offering him a magnificent bull – Nandi, the son of Surabhi and Kasyapa – which Shiva accepted and rode. Nandi also became the protector of all animals.

Nandi and Lord Shiva
Nandi and Lord Shiva

As Nandi is the assistant of the of Lord – he can also grant many boons. In South India – there is a tradition of talking one’s wish to Nandi’s ears that is then believed to be granted.

Powers of Nandi

Sudarshana chakra was given to Lord Vishnu by Lord Shiva

The famed Sudarshana chakra was bestowed to Lord Vishnu by Lord Shiva. Once, Vishnu was meditating Shiva’s sahasranama to please Lord. He kept thousand lotuses to please him. Lord wanted to test Lord Vishnu’s devotion and so he took one of the flower from flowers which Vishnu was using to offer it to Shivalinga on each naama.

At the thousandth name, vishnu was surprised to see he was not left with any flowers and so he took out his own eyes and offered it to Lord. As Lord Vishnu is also called Kamalnayan, his eye would serve the purpose of a Lotus flower. Shiva pleased with the level of devotion shown by Vishnu, bestowed Sudarshan chakra to Lord Vishnu.

Why Lord Shiva Covers His Body With Ash?

Lord Shiva’s body is always covered with ash and Shiv devotees wear ash tilak on forehead and hands. There is an interesting story in the Shiva Purana which narrates how Lord  came to be associated with Ash. There once lived a sage whose lineage was traced to the famous Saint Bhrigu. This sage performed intense austerities and became very powerful. He used to consume only fruits and later only green leaves and thus got the name – Pranada.

Sage Pranada continued his intense tapas and controlled all the animals and plants in the forest he lived. Once while cutting some grass to repair his hermitage, the sage cut his middle finger. But to his surprise instead of blood he saw sap of tree oozing through the cut.

Now Pranada thought that he had become so pious that instead of blood, sap is oozing through his body. Pride filled his mind and he started shouting in joy that he is the most pious man in the world now.

Lord Shiva who witnessed this event took the guise of an old man and reached the spot. When the old man asked for the reason for his uncontrollable delight, Pranada said that he has become the most pious man in the world as his blood as become quite similar to the sap of fruits and trees.

Then the old man asked what is there to be elated in this. It is just a sap. But when trees and plants are burned they turn into ash. Only ash remains that is surely the higher stage.

To demonstrate it the old man sliced his finger and suddenly ash came out of it. Sage Pranada soon realized that it was Lord standing before him and prayed to him for forgiveness for his ignorance.

It is said that ever since then Lord wears ash to remind his devotees about the ultimate reality and foolishness of getting enamored in physical beauty.

Lord Shiva tests Goddess Parvati

Few of us know that Shiva thoroughly tested Devi Parvati’s devotion before accepting her as a wife. He designed himself as a young Brahmin and told Parvati that would it be good for her to marry Lord who lived like a beggar and had nothing?

Parvati got very angry when she heard these words about Lord. She told him that she would marry no one but Shiva. Pleased with her answer, Lord came back to his real form and agreed to marry Parvati. Himavantha performed the wedding with great splendour.

Wedding of Shiva and Parvati
Wedding of Shiva and Parvati

Read the story of Lord Shiva marriage to Parvati here.

Lord Shiva stories

Lord Shiva Images

Lord Shiva Image
Lord Shiva Image of Trishul
Lord Shiva Images

माँ सिद्धिदात्री

माँ दुर्गाजी की नौवीं शक्ति का नाम सिद्धिदात्री हैं। ये सभी प्रकार की सिद्धियों को देने वाली हैं। नवरात्रपूजन के नौवें दिन इनकी उपासना की जाती है। इस दिन शास्त्रीय विधिविधान और पूर्ण निष्ठा के साथ साधना करने वाले साधक को सभी सिद्धियों की प्राप्ति हो जाती है। सृष्टि में कुछ भी उसके लिए अगम्य नहीं रह जाता है। ब्रह्मांड पर पूर्ण विजय प्राप्त करने की सामर्थ्य उसमें आ जाती है।

देवी सिद्धिदात्री का वाहन सिंह है। वह कमल पुष्प पर भी आसीन होती हैं विधिविधान से नौंवे दिन इस देवी की उपासना करने से सिद्धियां प्राप्त होती हैं। यह अंतिम देवी हैं। इनकी साधना करने से लौकिक और परलौकिक सभी प्रकार की कामनाओं की पूर्ति हो जाती है।

Maa Siddhidatri

Maa Siddhidatri

भगवान शिव ने भी सिद्धिदात्री देवी की कृपा से तमाम सिद्धियां प्राप्त की थीं। इस देवी की कृपा से ही शिवजी का आधा शरीर देवी का हुआ था। इसी कारण शिव अर्द्धनारीश्वर नाम से प्रसिद्ध हुए।

मां के चरणों में शरणागत होकर हमें निरंतर नियमनिष्ठ रहकर उपासना करनी चाहिए। इस देवी का स्मरण, ध्यान, पूजन हमें इस संसार की असारता का बोध कराते हैं और अमृत पद की ओर ले जाते हैं।

देवी पुराण में ऐसा उल्लेख मिलता है कि भगवान शंकर ने भी इन्हीं की कृपा से सिद्धियों को प्राप्त किया था। ये कमल पर आसीन हैं और केवल मानव ही नहीं बल्कि सिद्ध, गंधर्व, यक्ष, देवता और असुर सभी इनकी आराधना करते हैं। संसार में सभी वस्तुओं को सहज और सुलभता से प्राप्त करने के लिए नवरात्र के नवें दिन इनकी पूजा की जाती है। इनका स्वरुप मां सरस्वती का भी स्वरुप माना जाता है।

माँ कात्यायनी

माँ का नाम कात्यायनी कैसे पड़ा इसकी भी एक कथा है- कत नामक एक प्रसिद्ध महर्षि थे। उनके पुत्र ऋषि कात्य हुए। इन्हीं कात्य के गोत्र में विश्वप्रसिद्ध महर्षि कात्यायन उत्पन्न हुए थे। इन्होंने भगवती पराम्बा की उपासना करते हुए बहुत वर्षों तक बड़ी कठिन तपस्या की थी। उनकी इच्छा थी माँ भगवती उनके घर पुत्री के रूप में जन्म लें। माँ भगवती ने उनकी यह प्रार्थना स्वीकार कर ली।

Maa Katyayani - Sixth day of Navratri

Maa Katyayani – Sixth day of Navratri

या देवी सर्वभू‍तेषु माँ कात्यायनी रूपेण संस्थिता। नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नम:।।

माँ कात्यायनी माँ दुर्गा का छठा स्वरूप हैं| नवरात्र के छठे दिन आदिशक्ति मां दुर्गा की षष्ठम रूप और असुरों तथा दुष्टों का नाश करनेवाली भगवती की पूजा की जाती है. मार्कण्डये पुराण के अनुसार जब राक्षसराज महिषासुर का अत्याचार बढ़ गया, तब देवताओं के कार्य को सिद्ध करने के लिए देवी मां ने महर्षि कात्यान के तपस्या से प्रसन्न होकर उनके घर पुत्री रूप में जन्म लिया.

Mahishasura and Goddess Durga

 

Maa Katyayani

Maa Katyayani

Maa Katyayani story in English

शास्त्रों के अनुसार देवी ने कात्यायन ऋषि के घर उनकी पुत्री के रूप में जन्म लिया, इस कारण इनका नाम कात्यायनी पड़ गया। नवरात्र के छठे दिन देवी की पूरे श्रद्धा भाव से पूजा की जाती है। दिव्य रुपा कात्यायनी देवी का शरीर सोने के समाना चमकीला है। चार भुजा धारी माँ कात्यायनी सिंह पर सवार हैं। अपने एक हाथ में तलवार और दूसरे में अपना प्रिय पुष्प कमल लिये हुए हैं। अन्य दो हाथ वरमुद्रा और अभयमुद्रा में हैं। इनका वाहन सिंह हैं। मां कात्यायनी अमोघ फलदायिनी मानी गई हैं। शिक्षा प्राप्ति के क्षेत्र में प्रयासरत भक्तों को माता की अवश्य उपासना करनी चाहिए। मान्यता है कि यदि कोई श्रद्धा भाव से नवरात्र के छठे दिन माता कात्यायनी की पूजा आराधना करता है तो उसे आज्ञा चक्र की प्राप्ति होती है|

या देवी सर्वभू‍तेषु माँ कात्यायनी रूपेण संस्थिता। नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमस्तस्यै नमो नम:।।

Seven important rituals of Hindu religion

Seven Important Hindu Rituals

We are presenting another series of Hindu Rituals which explain the importance of these rituals. Their observance brings great luck and happiness to devotees.

Importance of Deepa

The deepa or diya is lit on all auspicious occasion, festivals even in daily puja. Deepa is lighted in front of deities. In some temples we can also find a akhand deep which is burnt continuously.  It is also lighted in educational and social events like inauguration.

Importance of Burning Deepak

Importance of Burning Deepak

 

It is believed that the oil of the deep symbolizes one’s base instinct (vasana) the wick the ego. So when a deep is illuminated by spiritual knowledge the base instincts get exhausted and  the ego slowly perishes. The flame of the deep always burns upward similar to a spiritual knowledge which elevates a person. Thus, lightning a deep symbolises knowledge that eradicates the darkness of ignorance.

What is the purpose of Aarati and how it is performed ?

Aarati is one of the sixteen steps of the puja ritual. It is referred to as the auspicious light. Aarti is performed at the end of every ritualistic puja. It is performed by circling the lighted lamp with the right hand in a clockwise direction before the deity. During aarti devotees sing prayer describing the glory of God, clap their hands, ringing of bells and blowing of conch shell. After aarti devotees place their palm over the holy flame and then touch them over their eyes and head to be blessed by God’s divinity.

The ritual of Performing Aarti

The ritual of Performing Aarti

 

Why Coconut is worshipped ?

In early days, animal sacrifice was in practice in yajnas, this symbolizes offering of wealth to Devas. But slowly this practice was discontinued and coconut,  which symbolizes life came is used instead.

The Coconut worship

The Coconut worship

 

Coconut is worshipped with the kalash as this symbolises prosperity and auspiciousness. It is also offered into the sacrificial fire during homa ceremony. It is also broken during worship rituals and on occasions like inauguration or opening of new buildings , factories shops etc.

The splitting of a coconut symbolises the shattering of one’s ego. The coconut water represents the base instinct (vasana) which is offered with white kernel ( the mind) to God.

What is pradakshina and why it us done ?

Pradakshina means circumambulation, its a devotional act expressing respect and honour to God’s divine presence. While circumbulating the devotee chant the name of God. This is always performed in a clockwise manner so that the deity is always on one’s right, symbolising auspiciousness.

pradakshina

 

Why do Hindu offer namaste or namaskar or dandavat pranam ?

Namaste , namaskar or dandavat pranam is a gesture of greeting and respect to God, guru, senior or even a stranger. Namaste means ”I bow to you” It also includes the sentiment of offering prostration and salutation. The Hindus say offer namaste or namaskar by folding their palms together by the and chest and bowing their heads. Bowing of the head symbolises humility and folding of hands means, may our mind meet together.

namaskar

Dandavat pranam is performed by sitting down on one’s knees with one’s head and hands touching the ground and the mind engage in humble thoughts. Dandavat pranam is performed by lying prostrate on the ground with eight parts of the body touching the floor.

dandvat

Both the pranams are performed in acknowledgement of their greatness, selfless love, service and sacrifice.  In return the guru , parents, seniors, teachers generally place their hands in benediction on the disciple, child or student’s head to allow the free flow of divine vibrations and positive energy.

Why do Hindus observe fast ?

Hindus observe fast on festivals. They fast to please God, control the senses or atone for sins.Fast is observed in various forms like some take only milk, or water or fruit juice, while some fast strictly without taking any food and water at all.

Spiritually, fasting facilitates mental proximity to God by withdrawing the senses from material objects. It also evokes feeling of gratitude and humility for all that God gives and does for our happiness, survival and sustenance. The mind become pure, poised and peaceful. Physically, fasting allows the digestive system to rest for some time and thus improve its efficiency. It also detoxifies the body.

Why do some Hindu deities have animal features?

Some Hindu deities have animal features include Ganesha , Hanuman, Vishn’s avtars like Matsya(fish), Kumra (turtle), Varah (boar), Narasimha (half man half lion) and others. Hindus believe that Paramatma or Bhagwan manifests in human and other forms for the purpose of re-establishing dharma and destroying adharma. God is free to take whichever form he desire for the purpose of fulfilling his mission. This Hindu tradition reverse all the manifestation of Bhagwan and other deities, whether in human or other forms, and believe that they are divine.

Lord Ganpati having elephant features

Lord Ganpati having elephant features

 

 

sun god

In other religions and civilizations Gods with animal features are worshipped, like in Ancient Greek civilizations, they worshipped God Pan, who had hindquaters, legs and horns of a goat. In Egyptian civilization also people worshipped Anubis, Lord of underworld, and Ra (Sun God) who are potrayed as men with falcon heads. In Christianity winged angels are portrayed as half human and half bird.

greek god

Today, many of these animal feature deities have lost their prominence and no longer remembered or worshiped. But,  in Hinduism Ancient deities are still worshiped , believing them to be divine regardless of them having animal features.