Spiritual Gurus

Hindu God Surya Dev

2013-05-09T05:04:00.000-07:00

As per the Hindu Religion, Surya symbolizes the Sun God. Surya is considered as the only visible form of God that can be seen every day. God Surya is regarded as an aspect of Shiva and Vishnu by Shaivites and Vaishnavas respectively. Surya is also known as Surya Narayana. Surya, the Sun God is also acknowledged as one of the eight forms of Lord Shiva (Astamurti). Surya is the lord of excellence and wisdom.

Surya - The Image

The celestial body, Surya (the sun) is visible in the sky. Still according to the Hindu beliefs, Surya is depicted as a red man with three eyes and four arms, riding in a one wheeled chariot pulled by seven horses.

Surya - The God of Light

Surya forms the major god of the Navgraha (nine planets).Surya is the God of light as per the Vedic texts. Surya is the literal source of life. According to the scientific fact, the whole universe is based on the process of photosynthesis which takes place due to the presence of Surya (the sun).

God Surya - The worship

It is believed that Surya has been worshipped since ages to receive the kind blessings of God. A simple namaskaar (folding hands) to the lord makes him happy. Offering water to the God is too considered to receive the mercy. Surya is believed to be a generous deity capable of curing sick people, in India. It is also proved in Science that sunlight is a rich source of Vitamin-D. Surya is usually remembered for the brilliance and light in one's life.

Surya - The Gayatri Mantra

The Gayatri Mantra of the Hindu Religion is also associated with the Sun God, Surya. Aditya Hridayam is another hymn associated with Surya, recited by the sage Agatsya to Rama on the battlefield before the fight with Ravana.

Symbol of Surya is also regarded as one of the auspicious signs of the Hindu religion. People place the sign of the Sun over main doors as they think it would bring them good luck.

Art of Living Foundation

2013-03-17T20:34:00.000-07:00

What is the Art of Living?

Art of living is all about leading a normal and enjoyable life, amidst all the tensions and stresses that inundate living today. It is more of a technique through which we learn to eliminate strains and worries and increase happiness and joy in our life. The concept of art of living has become so popular that it is being adopted at the corporate level also. Organizations are using it to help their executives in dealing with high levels of stress.

Art of Living Foundation by Sri Sri Ravishankar

Sri Sri Ravishankar is the one who pioneered the art of living concept. He established a foundation, known as the Art Of Living Foundation, in India, to promote this concept. People come to the various centers of this foundation, also known as the Sri Sri Ravi Shankar Foundation, to listen to the Guru and learn the technique of coping with life. The Mecca of Art of Living Foundation is in the Bangalore city of India.

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar

As far as appearances go, Sri Sri Ravishankar comes across as a tiny little man with flowing hair and beard. But, it is his soothing voice and the power of his words that keep people glued to their seat throughout his discourses. He speaks very softly, eulogizing the virtues of love and brotherhood. He embraces all the people who come to attend his discourses. After attending the art of living sessions by Ravishankar, you will feel more at peace with yourself.
Also known by the name of Gurudev, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar has been walking on the path of a spiritual guide and a teacher since a long time. Right from childhood, he was involved with scriptures and religious environment. He has served the Transcendental Meditation Guru and mystic, Maharishi Maheshyogi, as a senior and trusted lieutenant. The credit of spreading Maharishi's gospel in South Africa as well as the rest of world goes mainly to Sri Sri Ravishankar.

The Technique of the Art of Living

The main technique behind the art of living concept is the Sudarshan Kriya. The basic course is based on this Kriya only and the other courses also derive from it. As per this technique, the main reason behind lethargy, inefficiency, ill health and sickness are the toxins, which accumulate in our system at a cellular level. Sudarshan Kriya aims at removing the toxins from the body, by oxygenating and revitalizing these cells. This leads to a balance in the physical, emotional and mental states and brings satisfaction in life.

The Courses

Basic Course: The basic course of the art of living aims at all round development of an individual - at the mental, physical, emotional and spiritual level.
Advanced Courses
Art Excel Course: It is meant for children between 8 and 16 years of age.
Sahaja Samadhi Course
There are also courses for HIV and AIDS patients as well as the inmates in prison.

These courses are held all over the world and are open for each and every one. The fee that is charged for these courses varies from place to place.

Art of Living Foundation in Bangalore, India

The center situated in Bangalore is considered to be the Mecca of the Art of Living Foundation. It is the headquarters of the foundation and lies in the outskirts of the city, on the Kanakapura Road. The official name of the center in Bangalore is 'Ved Vignan Mahavidya Peeth Bangalore International Center'. Perched on a small hillock, it spreads over a large area. The entire complex comprises of offices, snack shop, dining hall, residential quarters, library, prayer hall, lawns, a lotus-shaped tower and a school.

How to Reach Art of Living Foundation, Bangalore

By Air
Bangalore airport has direct flights to all the major cities in the country.

By Rail
Bangalore railway station has regular train services, linking it with the key cities in India.

By Road
Bangalore is covered by an extensive network of roads.

Article Source: iloveindia

Shridi Sai Baba aarti full

2013-02-17T00:33:00.002-08:00

naga sadhus in kumbh mela 2013

2013-02-15T05:46:00.003-08:00

Kumbh Mela : 2013, India Must Watch

2013-02-15T05:42:00.003-08:00

Ramdev Baba - Spiritual Gurus

2013-02-15T05:34:00.001-08:00

About Ramdev Baba

Baba Ramdev is a renowned Yoga teacher. Through the medium of television, he has taken the art of yoga to each and every household far and wide. He is the host of a program named 'Divya Yog' that airs on Aastha TV everyday, at 5 am in the morning. People from different parts of the country watch this program and have started doing yoga from the comforts of their home.

Early Life

Swami Ramdev was born as Ramkishan Yadav in the Mahendragarh district of Haryana. After studying at school till the eight standard, he joined a yogic monastery (gurukul) in Khanpur village. There, he started learning the techniques of Yoga, along with the Sanskrit language.

Renunciation

After completing his period of study at the Gurukul, Baba Ram Dev renounced the world and entered into Sanyas (monastic living). It was then that he assumed the name of Ramdev. He went to Jind district and joined the Kalva gurukul. There, he started teaching Yoga to the villagers across Haryana. It is believed that some time later, he traveled to the Himalayas, spending a number of years there. Thereafter, he went to Haridwar and till date, the city serves as his base.

Initiation into Ascetic Order

Swami Ramdev was initiated into the ascetic order by Swami Shankerdevji Maharaj. After his initiation, he joined the order of swamis and started studying the ancient Indian scriptures. At the same time, he also practiced intense self-discipline and meditation.

Divya Yoga Mandir Trust

As a promotional vehicle for Yoga, Baba Ram Dev established the Divya Yoga Mandir Trust in 1995. In this project, he was accompanied by Acharya Karamveer and Acharya Balkrishna. The headquarters of the trust are at the Kripalu Bagh Ashram of Haridwar. Baba Ramdev teaches yoga mainly at this ashram.

Baba Ram Dev Yoga

Baba Ramdev teaches Pranayama, a form of Yoga. The program consists of six breathing exercises, practiced in the following sequence…

Bhastrika Pranayama
Kapal Bhati Pranayama
Bahaya Pranayama
Anulom Vilom Pranayama
Bhramri Pranayama
Udgeeth Pranayama

Lord Bhairav

2013-02-06T00:30:00.001-08:00

Lord Bhairav is considered to be the incarnation (Avatar) of Lord Shiva. In the contemporary times, Bhairon has been worshipped by millions of people to get the powerful blessings from the god. Bhairav is a fierce form of Shiva. It is believed that Bhairon is connected to the Southern face and relates to the Mahavidya goddess named Bhairavi who gives Lagna shuddhi (purification of the Disciple). This purifies and protects the body, self concept, personality, and other attributes associated with the Disciple.

Bhairon- Lord of Rahu
Bhairav or Bhairavi are worshipped when there are malefic planets in the birth lagna (time) or when natural malefic planets are transiting. Bhairon removes and protects person from these types of effects. As per the Indian astrology, Rahu is known as a shadow planet, which plays an important role in the life of a creature. The Indian astrologers often suggest people, the worship of Lord Bhairav to reduce the evils caused by the malefic position of Rahu in the horoscope.

Bhairon - The Lord of Yogis
Lord Bhairav is worshipped by Yogis and Tantriks to gain Siddhis. Bhairon is regarded as the guardian of Yogis and Tantriks who attain accomplishment of Mantras by doing Sadhana (devotion).

Bhairon - The Kotwal
Lord Bhairav guards the temple of Lord Shiva and due to this fact, he is also known as "kotwal" (Guard).

Bhairav - The Worship
Worship of Lord Bhairon is very useful to win over your enemies, success and all materialistic comforts. It is very easy to please lord Bhairav by doing normal worship daily. Coconut, Flowers, Sindoor, Mustard oil, black til etc are offered to the God and the following mantra is chanted with devotion to get God's Blessings.

Main (Mula) Mantra :
"OM BATUK BHAIRVAYE NAMHA"

Miracle in Shirdi - Sai Baba's Image appears on Wall !

2013-02-05T18:36:00.003-08:00

Dhyana

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Dhyana Yoga forms the seventh constituent or limb of the ancient science of Yoga. It is derived from the Sanskrit root "dhyai" which means, "to think of". The literal meaning of Dhyana is Meditation. It concentrates upon a point of focus, with the intention of knowing the truth about it and is the thought and meditation of spiritual things. While practicing Dhyana Yoga, we meditate on a single flow of idea. The purpose is to withdraw all senses from various objects of interest. The focus is laid upon on one object.

Dhyana Yoga produces a state of tranquility. Its objective is to cleanse the subconscious, develop concentration, clear the mind, and bring about various stages of unified communion with God. Practising Dhyana Yoga allows the person to calm his mind and allow him/her to look at the outside world without any distractions. This enables him/her to reach a heightened level of awareness. Meditation, consciousness, and experience, are all but a single unity. There are different forms of Dhyana Yoga and it is very important to remember the three things given below.

One-pointedness of mind is the first thing, that means controlling its movements.
Secondly, setting bounds to one's life to help achieve this, this means doing actions after weighing and measuring them.
The third thing is the evenness of vision or state of level-headedness, which means having the nobility and decency to think in terms of the whole world.

Benefits Of Dhyana

Dhyana Yoga is a system that, in the form of meditation, tranquilizes the body and mind.
In the process of meditation, we calm the mind that leads to the realignment our inner self to the right path.
Meditation leads to have lesser thoughts that give rise to lesser worries, which in turn results in spending a simple life.
It enables us to contemplate on important things that we are connecting with the inner self. It also cut shorts too many distractions from our life.
The mind becomes so occupied with a particular subject that it concentrates deeply in the object to find the underlying differences, making a connection of the mind to a particular object.
While practicing Dhyana, the consciousness of the practitioner flows in the subject and helps in becoming one with the same. The mind is totally observed in the point of focus while concentrating on the same.
On physical level, Dhyana Yoga helps each cell in the body to refresh and regenerate itself.
It also facilitates digestion and makes respiration more efficient as well as improves circulation and quality of blood.
Moreover, it improves your ability to analyze your emotions objectively, and the way you react in certain situation.

Legends of Ganesha

2013-01-21T04:55:00.001-08:00

There are many stories of Lord Ganesha regarding his origin and various others which tell about the nature and traits of his character. Ganesha is known as the god of wisdom, literature and worldly success. He is known as the eldest son of Lord Shiva and Parvati (Uma), younger brother being Kartikay. Here are some legends associated with lord Ganesha.

The Elephant Head - Story of Ganesha

This story is about Lord Ganesha's birth and how he gets the head of an elephant. Once upon a time, Parvati was going to take the bath and before going, she made a boy out of the dirt of her body ,to guard the entrance of her house. She asked him not to allow anyone inside .After saying this, she went inside to take the bath. After this lord shiva came himself to meet his consort and he was quite thirsty. Ganesha stopped him at the door as he was unable to recognize his father ,Lord Shiva. Lord Ganesha was beheaded by Shiva, who took him as an outsider, when Ganesha was trying to defend his mother's bath.

When Parvati came to know about this, she persuaded Shiva, to restore Ganesha to life. Shiva ordered his servants (Gana) to bring the head of any creature that they come across first. An elephant, the wisest of animals, appeared and became the spontaneous donor in the head transplant of Ganesha. Shiva attached the head of the elephant to the torso of Ganesha. After looking at the child (Ganesha), Parvati asked Shiva that who will consider this god with the face of an elephant.

Understanding Parvati's viewpoint, Shiva blessed the child, Ganesha that he will be the lord of beginning and people will worship him first, before any other God in any kind of undertaking. He ordained that the annual worship of Ganesha, should take place on the fourth day of the bright half of Bhadrapada (August-September).

Who is elder? Ganesha or Kartikay

This is another interesting story of Lord Ganesha.Once Ganesha and Kartikay got into an argument as who was the elder of the two. The matter was told to Lord Shiva for an answer. Lord Shiva asked that whoever would travel around the world and come out first had the right to be the elder of two. Lord Kartikay flew off on his vehicle, the peacock, to take the round of the world. But Ganesha went round his parents and asked for the reward of his success.

Lord Shiva said: "Beloved and wise -Ganesha! You did not go round the world". Ganesha replied: "No, but I went round my parents. My parents symbolize the entire world.'' The argument was settled in favour of Ganesha and thereafter recognized as the elder of the two brothers. Ganesha got a fruit as reward from his mother Parvati for this.

Ganesha and His Love for Laddoo

Lord Ganesha is very fond of Laddoo (Modaka - a sweet delicacy). Once upon a day of Ganesha Puja, Ganesha went from house to house and accepted the offerings of laddoo. He stuffed himself to the capacity and decided to take a ride on his mouse at night. Along the moonlit road they got to see a large snake and the troubled rat stumbled, with the consequence Ganpati fell down .He hit the ground hard and as a result his stomach burst open. All the laddoos came out but Ganesha again stuffed them into his stomach. He caught the snake and tied it round his belly.
Moon witnessed the whole event and laughed heartily. Lord Ganesha lost his temper and furiously looked about for something to throw at his tormentor. Getting nothing, he pulled out one of his tusks and hurled it at the moon. He cursed the moon that no one should look at the moon on the day of Ganesha Puja .If anyone would look at it , he will get a bad name ,criticism or ill reputation. If anyone gets to see the moon by chance, he would be free from that bad name or blame, after hearing the story of Lord Krishna's clearing, his personality in respect of the Syamantaka jewel. Thus, Ganesha was happy to proclaim this.

God of knowledge Saraswati

2013-01-21T02:24:00.000-08:00

Characteristics :	Knowledge
Other Names :	Vaagdevi, Sharda
Consort :	Lord Brahma
Vehicle (Vahana) :	Swan
Mula Mantra :	Om Aim Saraswatyai Namah
Saraswati Gayatri Mantra:	Aum Saraswatye Cha Vidmahe Brahmaputriye Cha Dheemahi Tanno Saraswati Prachodayat

Goddess Saraswati is the Goddess of arts, music, knowledge, and wisdom. Saraswati is considered as the divine consort of Lord Brahma, the Creator of the universe. Goddess Saraswati is said to possess the powers of speech, wisdom and learning. Saraswati is regarded as the dispeller of chaos and confusion.

Saraswati - the Consort of Brahma

Lord Brahma is known for creating the universe. Since knowledge is required for creation, Maa Saraswati signifies the creative power of Brahma. An apt creation requires sound knowledge. The creation of Lord Brahma became fruitful with the knowledge provided by Goddess Saraswati.

Maa Saraswati - The Image

Goddess Saraswati is usually depicted as a beautiful woman with yellow skin dressed in a pure white saree. Saraswati is portrayed sitting on a white lotus with veena (a musical instrument) in her hands. The book in her hand signifies the eternal and universal knowledge as well her perfection of the scriptures. Lotus symbolizes the supreme reality and it suggests that the goddess herself is rooted in the supreme reality.

The color white represents purity and her rejection of everything that is base and materialistic. The Swan represents the discrimination between the evil and the good, the eternal and the transitory. The four arms of the goddess suggest the four aspects of human personality i.e. mind, intellect, vigilance, and ego. The pearl string represents the power of spirituality. The peacock standing near Maa Saraswati represents arrogance and pride over its beauty. The Goddess teaches that physical appearance could be deceptive, by not taking peacock as the vehicle. Goddess Saraswati suggests that one should be wise regarding the eternal truth.

Saraswati - Bestower of Knowledge

Musical instruments, books, speech, knowledge, intellect are regarded as symbols of Saraswati. Saraswati is believed to be the provider of knowledge that dispels ignorance and unhappiness. Saraswati is worshipped by seekers of knowledge especially students, scholars and scientists.

Basant Panchami

Vasant Panchami marks the beginning of the spring season. The festival of spring is celebrated with full vivacity and joy amongst the Hindu people. In Hindi language, the word '' basant / vasant'' means ''spring'' and ''panchami'' means the fifth day. In short, Basant Panchami is celebrated as the fifth day of Spring Season.

Dharana

2013-01-19T03:23:00.002-08:00

Dharana is the sixth limb of Ashtanga Yoga. The word 'Dharana' simply means 'unbending concentration of mind'. Working with complete focus and concentration is something that satisfies every individual at the maximum. Each of us, feel a sense of frustration, when we are not able to focus. The inability to focus may be because our minds were racing with ideas, judgments, worries, songs, or even memories. The main idea underlying Dharana, is the ability to focus on something (uninterrupted both by external or internal distractions).

Dharana is a form of meditation that can be called receptive concentration. With the help of Dharana, a set of conditions are created that helps the mind focus in one direction and object, rather than concentrating in many directions, thereby diverting the mind. The term 'Dharana' is given to both the practice of deep concentration and the state in which you achieve deep concentration. Ideally, 'Dharana' should be performed at every moment of the day to gain utmost control of both body and mind.

Benefits Of Dharana

Dharana aims at setting up the mind, by focusing it upon some stable entity. One good method to start it is by rolling the eyes upward and downward, in one direction to get the concentration. Any object selected for practicing has no role to play in the meditation process. The object is only used to stop the mind from wandering - through memories, dreams, or reflective thought - by intentionally holding it obsessively upon some static object. This ability is a movement toward perception of its true nature and not an escape from reality.

Dharana helps in channeling one's thoughts on a certain thing. It makes sure that you reach a level of awareness in anything you do, by focusing on every step you take. Dharana can bring richness to one's life. With the help of deep contemplation and reflection, one can create the right conditions. Dharana works with the objective to achieve the mental state, where the mind, intellect, and ego are controlled. The mind becomes purified by the practices. It becomes able to focus efficiently on one subject or point of experience. Dharana also helps in the cessation of fluctuations in the mind.

The practice of Dharana, at the time, when you are struggling with anger, restlessness or expectation would help in balancing those struggles. Dharana is the practice of training the mind, to concentrate and focus, in such a way, that we can possibly avoid frustrations. Concentrating our attention on one point allows the mind to be stable and calms the disturbance of activity, to which we are used to. The point of concentration can be anywhere within our body or outside. Therefore, maintaining a fixed and focused concentration, throughout the practice, gives consistency and clarity to the thoughts.

Yoga Asanas

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Asanas can be described as the third one in the eight limbs of Yoga. Asana, which literally means staying or abiding, is basically a specific body position, attained by following certain steps. It is through asanas only that a human being achieves the unity of body and mind, which is the essence of yoga. Yogic asanas, commonly known as postures or posse in the west, are created for the purpose of improving the overall health and well-being of a person.

When a person is performing an asana, there is a corresponding balance between his movements and stillness. Patanjali, in his famous Yoga Sutra, says that each posture of yoga reflects a mental attitude, whether that attitude is one of surrender to the Almighty, strengthening of the will or creation of a physical prayer with the body. Through the performance and practice of different asanas, we revitalize as well as invigorate our body, mind and soul.

Types Of Asanas

Standing Asanas: The standing asanas bring elasticity in joints and muscles and build up stamina and physical stability of a person. The beginners should always start with standing asanas, as they constitute the most basic training of yoga practice.
Forward Bending Asanas: In this type of asanas, the posterior half of the body is stretched. Such asanas prepares you to proceed and bring consistency in the development of physical and mental pliability.
Sitting & Supine Asanas: The asanas that involve sitting upright or supine extending positions help in preparing a person, physically and mentally, for pranayama.
Inverted Asanas: These asanas give strength, mental balance and emotional stability to a person and also help him/her get rid of everyday stress and pressure.
Abdominal & Lumbar Asanas: Abdominal and lumbar asanas are known to tone and massage the abdominal organs and strengthen the pelvic and lumbar areas.
Twisting Asanas: Such type of asanas help tone the internal organs of a person and also tranquilize the mind. They consists of lateral stretching and twisting of the spine
Back Bending Asanas: These asanas are the opposite of forward bends. In forward bends, the posterior spine is extended, whereas in back bends, the anterior spine is extended and stretched. This, in turn, brings physical and mental sharpness.
Balancing Asanas: Balancing asanas are believed to help strengthen the arms and wrists of a person. They also exercise the abdominal organs, making the body feel light.

Benefits of Asanas

The main purpose of yoga asanas is to restore and maintain the practitioner's well-being, both spiritually and physically.
Regular practice of the asanas helps improve health, strength, balance and flexibility.
The asanas are used as a tool to calm the mind and help a human being discover his/her inner essence.
The different poses offer the practitioner the opportunity to explore and control all the aspects a person's mind and body - emotions, concentration, intent, faith and even the unity between physical and ethereal body.
The various asanas in yoga also provide us a way of exploring our mental attitudes and strengthening our will.
Yoga asanas help a person in creating a balance between his/her material world and spiritual experience.
The physical benefits from asanas include muscle flexibility and strengthening of almost all the body parts.
The asanas lead to a better functioning of respiratory system and also help control blood pressure.
and other issues related to the functioning of the circulatory system
Practicing yoga asanas on a regular basis reduces the stress levels as well as the health problems related to stress.
Apart from building the stamina of an individual, the various asanas also improve his/her concentration level.
All those who are trying to lose weight will find the various asanas of yoga to be quite helpful.

The Legends of Radha Krishna

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The legends of Radha-Krishna have become immortal. There are numerous legends and stories of Radha and Krishna depicting their true love. Radha's devotion and dedication towards Sri Krishna is the most sincere one. Here are some legends of Radha-Krishna portraying their love for each other.

Legend of Hot Milk
This is one interesting story showing the eternal relation of Radha and Krishna. Radha was not married to Lord Krishna. The immeasurable love of Krishna for Radha made Krishna's wives jealous of Radha. Once, they all planned a mischief to make Radha suffer. They set out a bowl of burning hot milk. They gave the bowl to Radha, saying that Krishna had sent it for her. Radha readily drank the hot milk.

When the wives returned to Krishna, they found him full of painful ulcers. This shows that Krishna resides in every pore of Radha i.e. why the hot milk didn't touch Radha, but it affected Krishna. He took all her pain and miseries upon himself.

Legend of Charanaamrit
This is another sweet story depicting the intense love between Radha and Krishna. Once, Sri Krishna got very ill. Krishna asked that he would be alright if, he would get the Charanaamrit of a true devotee. All the Gopis were asked but none of them offered. They were afraid of committing a serious offense, by offering the water with which they had washed their feet to Sri Krishna.

When Radha came to know about the situation, she said: "Take as much as you like. What does it matter if I have to go to hell as long as my Lord is released of His pain and ailment"! Radha offered the Charanaamrit with true heart. It is due to this fact; it is believed that Radha could not marry Lord Krishna. Radha loved Krishna from the core of her heart but still she offered Charanaamrit to Krishna to save him from his sickness.

Radha and Krishna were celestial beings and their love was eternal. Whether they were married or not, their love made them united for ever.

Goddess Radha

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Goddess Radha is a well-known deity in Hindu Mythology. She is also known as Radharani in the northern part of India. For her deep devotion towards Krishna, Radha is usually depicted with Krishna. Radha is sometimes considered as the incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi, the consort of Lord Vishnu.

Radha- the Embodiment of Love
The love story of Radha-Krishna has become a legend in the Hindu mythology. The story is believed to have taken place in the Dwapar Yuga, when both of them took birth in this world. Radha was a cowherdess, who through her beauty and charm captivated the heart of Lord Krishna and became his beloved goddess. Lord Krishna is considered to be the incarnation of Lord Vishnu, whose birth was predestined.

Krishna took avatar in order to slay the demon king Kansa and to spread happiness. During his life, Krishna met Radha and they fell in love with each other. Krishna had a motive behind his life i.e. to kill Kansa and to fulfill this mission; he had to face many problems. But, Radha with her intense affection and steady devotion helped Krishna to overcome the problems.

Radha - Devotee of Krishna
Radha represents the true devotee, both in the form of male and female. And Lord Krishna represents the divine. Intense love of Radha for Krishna symbolizes each devotee's passionate longing for ultimate unification with God. With her utmost devotion towards her lord, she became the supreme devotee of Lord Krishna. Today people remember Radha-Krishna in a single term. However, Radha was not the consort of Lord Krishna, but their love had united them for ever. Radha is an inescapable part of Krishna. Without Radha, Krishna doesn't mean anything and without Krishna, Radha is nothing.

Radha - The Goddess
Radha has attained the status of goddess in the Hindu Religion. Radha's immense love and dedication towards lord Krishna got her this position, which she truly deserves. Radha is the heavenly queen of Krishna's celestial world. Today, Radha is worshipped like any other goddesses in temples.

Radha Gayatri Mantra
Aum Vrashbhanujaye Vidmahe
Krishnapriyaye Dheemahi
Tanno Radha Prachodayat

Legends
The legends of Radha-Krishna have become immortal. There are numerous legends and stories of Radha and Krishna depicting their true love. Radha's devotion and dedication towards Sri Krishna is the most sincere one. Here are some legends of Radha-Krishna portraying their love for each other.

Radha Ashtami
Birthday of Radha is celebrated as Radhaashtami throughout the country and especially in the north, with full devotion and joy. Radha Ashtami is observed after 15 days of Janmashtami, which is celebrated as the birthday of Lord Krishna. Radharani's birthday is the sacred eighth day of the month of Bhadrapada (August-September).

Wife of God Rama

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Characteristics :	Ideal woman, Virtuous
Other Names :	Janaki, Maithili, Ramaa, Vaidehi
Principal Scriptures :	The Ramayana
Consort :	Lord Rama
Sita Gayatri Mantra :	Aum Janaknandiniye Vidmahe Bhumijayai Dheemahi Tanno Sita Prachodayat

Goddess Sita Maa

Sita is the consort of Lord Rama, the seventh avatar (incarnation) of Lord Vishnu. Sita is the one of the most popular goddesses of Hindu religion. Devi Sita is regarded as the incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi, the divine consort of Lord Vishnu. Sita is considered as the ideal daughter, ideal wife, and ideal mother, since ages. Goddess Sita is remembered for her virtues and attributes. Devi Sita symbolizes all that is noble in womanhood.

Devi Sita - A Woman of Virtue

Sita is one of the principal characters in The Ramayana, the great epic of India. Her entire life constitutes an example of idealism. Sita is a perfect example of loyalty and morality. Goddess Sita leaves the palace charms and amenities, in order to stay in exile with her husband. During the period of exile, Sita was abducted by the demon-king Ravana and imprisoned for months, in Lanka. When Sita got freed from the clutches of Ravana, she proved her sanctity to Lord Rama by giving Agni - Pariksha (Fire Ordeal). Sita is regarded as the role model of wifely love and adherence to duty.

Maa Sita - Mother of Luv - Kush

After returning from the exile, Ram and Sita were declared as the king and the queen of Ayodhaya, respectively. Sita's imprisonment in lanka became a consideration for the people of Ayodhaya. Lord Rama loved his wife endearly, but with no other option left, he banished Sita from his household. Sita again found herself in exile, this time she was not only alone but also pregnant. Sita got refuge in the hermitage of sage Valmiki, where she delivered twins, and named them Luv and Kush. She brought up her sons single handedly in the hermitage.

Sita is a brave woman of extraordinary brilliance. She has got all the values that people believe, a woman must have in her character. Sita is a woman of virtue and of immeasurable patience. Through her great character, she has captured hearts of millions of people.

Hindu Goddess Kali Mata

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Characteristics :	Destroyer, Compassionate
Other Names :	Bhadrakali, Rudrani, Dakshinakali, Aadya
Abode :	Cremation Grounds
Weapon :	Sword
Mula Mantra :	Om Kreem Kalikaye Namah

Goddess Kali
Kali is one of the many forms of Shakti. Maha Kaali is the fiercest of all goddesses of Hinduism. The word Kali has its roots in the Sanskrit word "Kaal", which means time. And nothing escapes from time. Goddess Kali is sometimes referred as the goddess of death. But actually Kali brings the death of the ego. Even in the scriptures, she has killed demons but not anyone else. Kali is also not associated with Yama (the Hindu God of Death). Kali is considered a form of mother too. Maa Kali is one of the few Goddesses who are celibate and practice renunciation.

Goddess Kali and Lord Shiva
Goddess Kali and Lord Shiva, both are regarded to inhabit cremation grounds. Devotees go to these places to meditate with the purpose of overcoming the ego. The cremation grounds emphasize the idea that the body is temporary. Kali and Shiva are known to stay in cremation grounds because it is our attachment to the body that gives rise to the ego. Kali and Shiva give the idea of liberation by dissolving the illusion of the ego. The corporeal frame ultimately vanishes but the soul still remains. This is emphasized by the scene in the cremation grounds.

Maa Kali - The Compassionate Goddess
Maha Kaali is the most compassionate of all the forms of goddesses as she provides salvation or liberation to her children. Kali is equivalent to Shiva because both of them are the destroyers of evil fake and unreal. It is considered that with the glimpse of Maa Kali, ego trembles with terror seeing its own eventual demise in her.

People who are attached to their ego would not be able to receive the idea of Kali and she will appear in a wrathful form to them. But people, who are engaged in spirituality, removing the illusion of the ego, will find Maha Kaali in a different form. Maa Kali will appear as sweet, affectionate, and overflowing with perplexing love for them.

Maa Kali - The Image
Goddess Kali has four arms and hands depicting her immense strength. In two of her hands, she holds a sword and a fresh severed head, representing a great battle in which she defeated the demon Raktabija. The other two hands are there to bless her true devotees, suggesting that they will be saved as she will guide them here and in the hereafter.

Kali wears a garland made of 52 skulls and a skirt made of dismembered arms because the ego comes out of identification with the body. It suggests that physical body is false and spirit is the only reality. Her black or sometimes dark blue skin represents the womb of the unmanifest from which all of creation is born and into which all of creation will ultimately return. Therefore, the concepts of color, light, dark, good or bad do not apply to her as she is the pure, un-manifested energy, the Adishakti.

Goddess Kali is seen standing with her one feet on Lord Shiva who is pure formless awareness Sat-Chit-Ananda (being-consciousness-bliss) while Kali represents "form" eternally sustained by the underpinning of pure awareness.

Kali Aarti
Goddess Kali Arti completes the worship or prayers made to the Goddess. It is believed that Kali aarti provides a completion to the Kali puja.

Different Names of Lakshmi

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Lakshmi is the goddess of beauty, wealth and good fortune in the Hindu Mythology. Goddess Lakshmi is one of the most popular goddesses among the Hindus. Maha Lakshmi is the divine consort of Lord Vishnu and assists him with wealth for the maintenance of the universe. Lakshmi fulfills all the wishes of her sincere devotees. Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped to attain wealth, beauty and good luck. A special worship of Goddess Lakshmi is sought on the night of Kartik Amavasya. Lakshmi Devi is known by many names. Chanting of different names of the goddess is considered as propitious. This list contains 108 names of Goddess Lakshmi with their meanings:

Name	Meaning
Prakruti	Natural World
Vikruti	Many-Sided Nature
Vidya	Knowledge
Sarvabhootahitaprada	Provider of Universal Facts
Shraddha	Devotion
Vibhuti	Prosperity
Surabhi	Celestial Creature
Paramatmika	Omnipresent
Vachi	Eloquent Speaker
Padmalaya	Sitting on the Lotus
Padma	Lotus
Shuchi	Personification of Purity
Swaha	Shape of Swahadevi (Auspicious)
Swadha	Shape of Swadhadevi (Inauspicious)
Sudha	Amrut (Nectar)
Dhanya	Embodiment of Gratitude
Hiranmayi	Golden Appearance of Hirana (Dear)
Lakshmi	Goddess of Wealth and Fortune
NityaPushta	Gaining Strength Day By Day
Vibha	Radiant
Aditi	Bright like the Sun
Deetya	One who Answers the Prayers
Deepta	Flame-Like
Vasudha	The Earth
Vasudharini	Bearing burden of the Earth
Kamala	Lotus
Kantha	The Divine Consort of Vishnu
Kamakshi	One with Attractive Eyes
Kamalasambhava	Originating from the Lotus
Anugrahaprada	Granter of Good Wishes
Buddhi	Intelligence
Anagha	The Sinless
Navadurga	All Nine Forms of Durga
Harivallabhi	The Devine Consort of Lord Hari
Ashoka	Dispeller of Sorrows
Amrutha	One who is like Amrut (Nectar)
Deepa	With Radiance
Lakashokavinashini	Remover of Universal Agonies
Dharmanilaya	Creator of Eternal Law
Karuna	Kindhearted
Lokamatri	Mother of the Universe
Padmapriya	The Lover of Lotus
Padmahasta	Having Lotus-Like Hands
Padmakshya	Lotus-eyed
Padmasundari	Beautiful Like the Lotus
Padmodbhava	One Who Emerged Out of the Lotus
Padmamukhi	Lotus-Faced
Padmanabhapriya	Beloved of Padmanabha
Ramaa	Pleaser of the Lord
Padmamaladhara	The Wearer of Lotus Garland
Devi	The Goddess
Padmini	Lotus
Padmagandhini	Having the Aroma of Lotus
Punyagandha	Having Divine Scent
Suprasanna	Ever Glowing and Smiling
Prasadabhimukhi	Emerging to Grant Boons
Prabha	One who is Radiant like the Sun
Chandravadana	Having Moon like Face
Chanda	One who is cool like the Moon
Chandrasahodari	Sister of the Moon
Chaturbhuja	One having four arms
Chandrarupa	Moon-Faced
Indira	Radiant like the Sun
Indusheetala	One who is cool like the Moon
Ahladajanani	Source of Joy
Pushti	Healthy
Shiva	The Auspicious One
Shivakari	Source of all auspicious things
Satya	The Truthful
Vimala	Pure, Chaste
Vishwajanani	Mother of the Universe
Pushti Possesses	All Wealth
Daridriyanashini	One who removes poverty
Preeta Pushkarini	One with lovely eyes
Shanta	Peaceful
Shuklamalambara	Wearer of White Garland
Bhaskari	Radiant like the Sun
Bilvanilaya	One who lives under Bilva tree
Vararoha	Ready to Offer Boons
Yashaswini	The Famous
Vasundhara	Daughter of the Earth
Udaranga	Endowed with a Beautiful Body
Harini	Beautiful like Deer
Hemamalini	Having Golden Garlands
Dhanadhanyaki	Bestower of Wealth and Food grains
Siddhi	Ever Ready to Protect
Straina	Soumya Showering Goodness on Women
Shubhaprada	Granter of Auspicious Things
Nrupaveshvagathananda	Loves to Live in Palaces
Varalakshmi	Granter of Bounty
Vasuprada	Bestower of Wealth
Shubha	One who is auspicious
Hiranyapraka	Amidst Gold
Samudratanaya	Beloved Daughter of the Ocean of Milk
Jaya	The Goddess of Victory
Mangala	Most Auspicious
Devi	The Goddess
Vishnuvakshah	Residing in Vishnu's Chest
Vishnupatni	The Consort of Vishnu
Prasannakshi	With graceful eyes
Narayana	Samashrita One who sought Refuge in Narayana
Daridriya	Dhwamsini Destroyer of Poverty
Devi	The Goddess
Sarvapadravanivarini	Dispeller of all Distresses
Mahakali	A Form of Kali
Brahma-Vishnu-Shivatmika	Trinity of Brahma-Vishnu-Shiva
Trikala-dnyanasampanna	Aware of all, the Past, Present and Future
Bhuvaneshwarya	The Supreme Deity

Goddess Lakshmi Maa

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Characteristics :	Wealth, Fortune, Courage and Fertility
Other Names :	Padma, Bhargavi, Sridevi, Aiswarya
Famous Prayers :	Sri Lakshmi Stuti, Sri Sukta, Agasti Lakshmi Strota
Consort :	Lord Vishnu
Vehicle (Vahana) :	Owl (Ulooka)
Mula Mantra :	Om Sri Maha Lakshmyai Namah

Goddess Lakshmi

Lakshmi is the auspicious goddess of wealth and fortune, whether it is material or spiritual. The word ''Lakshmi'' has been derived from the Sanskrit word Lakshay, meaning "aim" or ''goal''. Goddess Lakshmi suggests the aim of life, which includes all worldly and spiritual success. Lakshmi is the divine consort of Lord Vishnu and provides him with wealth for the maintenance and preservation of the creation. Sometimes, Maha Lakshmi is also known as ''Laxmi''.

Lakshmi is the goddess of wealth, luxury, fertility, fortune, purity, beauty, power, generosity and auspiciousness. She is claimed to fulfill the promises of material, wealth and contentment.

Lakshmi and her association with "Shri''

According to the Hindu mythology, the sacred name of Lakshmi is ''Shri''. Whether in written or verbal form, ''Shri'' always suggests presence of goddess Lakshmi in it. ''Shri'' is written at the top of most of the documents. It is usually spoken before addressing a god, or any revered individual. The usage of ''Shri'' itself evokes grace, affluence, abundance, authority and auspiciousness. The word ''Shri'' is spoken or written, an aura of holiness is established. Sri is associated with the material side of life, just like the word ''Om'' is associated with the spiritual side of life.

Goddess Lakshmi - The Image

Generally, Lakshmi is portrayed as a beautiful lady with golden complexion, dressed in red color attire and adorned with precious jewels. Lakshmi has four hands representing the four ends of human life, Kama (desires), Artha (wealth), and Moksha (liberation) from the cycle of birth and death. She holds lotus bud in two of her hands, which stands for beauty, purity, spirituality and fertility. She sits on a fully blossomed lotus, a seat of divine truth.

Cascades of gold coins are seen flowing from her hands, illustrating that she blesses people with wealth. The constant effort of two elephants is often shown standing next to the goddess and spraying water. It denotes that, in accordance with one's dharma when governed by wisdom and purity, leads to both material and spiritual prosperity. The personal charm of Lakshmi is considered par excellence. An aura of divine happiness, mental and spiritual satisfaction, and prosperity always exists around her.

Belief Regarding Goddess Lakshmi

It is believed that Lakshmi resides in a place where virtue, righteous- ness, truth and compassion prevail. Goddess Lakshmi is considered to stay at a clean place. Wealth is required to meet the basic needs of life. People worship Lakshmi for the well being and prosperity of the family.

On the auspicious night of Diwali, Hindus worship Lakshmi ceremonially at home, pray for her blessings. It is believed that on this night the goddess herself visits the homes and replenishes the inhabitants with wealth.

Lakshmi Chalisa

Lakshmi Chalisa is a forty verse prayer dedicated to Maha Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity. Shri Laxmi Chalisa is believed to have been composed by Sundardasa. Verses are usually dedicated to praise the goddess. The acts and deeds of Goddess Lakshmi are recalled in these verses to aid the devotee to meditate on virtuous and noble qualities.

Names of Lakshmi

Parvathi Devi

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Parvati

Characteristics :	Virtuous, Fertility, Marital felicity, Asceticism, Power
Other Names :	Uma, Lalitha, Gauri, Shivakamini, Aparna
Principal Scriptures :	Lalita Sahasranama
Consort :	Lord Shiva
Children :	Lord Ganesha, Lord Kartikay (Murugana)
Abode :	Mount Kailash
Vahana (Vehicle) :	Lion

Goddess Parvati
Parvati is a well known goddess in the Hindu mythology. Goddess Parvati is the divine consort of Lord Shiva, the trinity god. Parvati is also considered as a representation of Shakti or Durga, but the gentle aspect of that goddess not the fierce one. Maa Parvati is beautifully presented in the Hindu Literature as being beautiful, as a mediator in the conflicts of heaven, as a daughter of the Great Himalayan Mountains and as the divine sister of Goddess Ganga.

The divine motherly love of Parvati is visible with her two children Ganpati and Kartikay. According to the Hindu Belief, Parvati is the second consort of Shiva, the Hindu God of destruction and rejuvenation. Although, she is not different from Dakshayani (Sati), being the reincarnation of that former consort of Lord Shiva.

Parvati - Form of Shakti
Parvati is believed to be one of the many forms of "Shakti". People take her to be the divine sister of Maa Kali, Maa Lakshmi, Maa Saraswati, Durga and all other forms of Shakti. Durga (Goddess beyond reach) and Kali (Goddess of Destruction) are the two fierce but very powerful forms of Parvati.

Goddess Parvati - Other Names
The word Parvati has been derived from a Sanskrit word "Parvat" meaning mountain. So, "Parvati" means "she of the mountains" and suggests that Parvati is the daughter of Himavat (the personification of the Himalayas) and the apsara (fairy) Mena. Lalita, Uma, Gauri, Kali, Durga, Haimavati etc are the other names for Parvati. Amba is the other name of Parvati being the mother of the universe and Ambika, being the 'mother'. As Lalita, she represents the aspect of beauty and magnificence. Lalita Saharanama contains a thousand of her names.

Parvati - Her Symbolism
Goddess Parvati symbolizes noble virtues admired by the Hindu religion. Parvati is the better half of Lord Shiva, the most innocent and the fiercest god in Hindu tradition. The couple together symbolizes both power of renunciation and asceticism and the blessings of marital felicity. There are legends behind the marriage of lord Shiva and Parvati, being a devotee of Shiv-Shambhu. Parvati did a lot of tap in order to get Shiva as her soul mate. Parvati's dedication was really true which made Lord Shiva to marry her.

Fertility, marital felicity, devotion to the spouse, asceticism and power are different virtues symbolized by Parvati. These virtues are highly valued by the Hindu tradition. As per a famous literary work on the goddess, Saundarya Lahiri, Parvati is the source of all the power in this universe and Lord Shiva gets all his powers from her.

Hindu Goddess Ganga Devi

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Ganga

Other Names :	Bhagirathi, Alaknanda, Dhauliganga, Padma, Mandakini
Countries :	India, Bangladesh
Major cities :	Haridwar, Kanpur, Allahabad, Varanasi, Patna
Length :	2,510 km
Watershed :	907,000 km²
Source :	Gaumukha, Gangotri Glacier located in Uttarakhand, India
Destination :	Ganges Delta located in Bay of Bengal, Bangladesh
Major Tributaries:	In the left, Brahmaputra, Gomti, Kosi, Gandak, Ghaghra In the right Yamuna, Son

Goddess Ganga
Ganga / Ganges is considered as the most sacred river of the Hindu Mythology. River Ganges is very much popular in India and is worshipped as a goddess. Ganga is the most revered river in the world. River Ganga is unique in itself with its mind blowing length and width. Many other rivers of the world exceed Ganga on these aspects but none of them can match the reverence and affection that is shown to Ganga by the people of India and the world.

According to the Puranas (Holy Scriptures of Hindus), the sight, the name and the touch of Ganga takes away all sins. As per Hindu thoughts, bathing in the river on special occasions causes remission of sins and facilitates the attainment of salvation. It is considered that Ganga bestows blessings of the highest order. People come from far and near to immerse the ashes of their kin in the waters of Ganga, with a belief that the ashes would go to heaven.

Gangajal - The Water of Ganga
Gangajal, the water of Ganga, is regarded as the most pure and sacred water on this earth. Ganga water is used in various religious ceremonies of Hindus. Even Science has proved that Ganga water is pure and bacteria free. Gangajal can be kept for years without any problem.

River Ganges / Ganga
According to Hindu Mythology, Ganga is considered as the celestial creature of heaven and it descends on the earth to rinse away the sins of the mankind. On the earth, Ganges or Ganga originates from the Gaumukha, Gangotri glacier in the central Himalayas, located in Uttarakhand, India. This is acknowledged as one of the holy pilgrimages of India.

The River flows through a wide area covering several sacred places of Hindus like Haridwar, Allahabad and Varanasi. The Ganga and its tributaries drain a large and fertile basin with an area of about one million square kilometers that supports one of the world's highest density human populations. After a long journey of 2,510 kms, Ganga drains into the Bay of Bengal through its vast delta in the Sundarbans.

Representation of River Goddess Ganga
Ganga represents the innermost pristine coolness, piety and purity. River Ganga enriches the spiritual lives of millions and millions of Indians for whom the river is divine. Holy River Ganga personifies Goddess Ganga who descends to the earth to rinse away the sins of the mankind. The river Ganga itself embodies all the characteristics India is known for: mythical, serene, all pervading and assimilative.

Ganga Legend
Ganga, the River Goddess is the only living goddess in the Hindu pantheon. There are numerous stories regarding the birth and origin of this goddess. According to the beliefs, Ganga descends on the earth to rinse away the sins of the mankind. Ganga is the sacred river and has been referred to in the various ancient texts of Hindus.

Durga Devi Ma

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Characteristics :	Strength, Morality, Power, Protector
Other Names :	Jagdamba, Shakti, Bhagwati, Devi, Maa
Weapon :	Trident, Chakra, Snake, Conch shell, Mace, Bow, Long sword, Thunderbolt
Abode :	Trikoota Mountain
Vehicle (Vahana) :	Lion
Mula Mantra :	Om Sri Durgaya Namah
Durga Gayatri Mantra:	Aum Girijaye Cha Vidmahe Shiva Priyaye Cha Dheemahi Tanno Durga Prachodayat

Durga
Maa (Mother) Durga symbolizes the power of the Supreme Being that maintains moral order and righteousness in the universe. Worship of the goddess Shakti is very popular among the Hindus. Durga stands for the unified symbol of all divine forces (Shaktis). Goddess Durga is the divine mother, who protects people from evil forces of selfishness, jealousy, hatred, anger and ego. Mother's love and her kindness towards her child, is the best example of pure love in this whole universe.

Likewise, the love of Maa Bhagwati (Durga) towards her devotee (Child) is pure and serene. Maa (Mother) never asks for a favour from her child. She pours her kindness and warmth on the child without desiring anything in return. The love of Jagdamba is like a free flowing river. Durga loves her each and every devotee (Child) without any discrimination.

Origin of Goddess
Durga It is believed that once the existence of the universe was under a threat by Mahishasura (the demon). The Gods pleaded Shiva to protect their world from the evil forces. Lord Shiva asked the three goddesses, Saraswati, Maa Kali and Maa Lakshami to release their powers (shaktis). The Power emerged in a female form. The Divine light emerged and a goddess of exceptional power appeared with many arms. She was beautiful as well as ferocious.

Durga was an extremely gorgeous girl with full of rage. The gods named her Durga, the invincible one and they furnished her with all their arms. Durga rode on a lion to the top of a mountain. In a violent battle, she killed Mahishasura and thus, saved the world from the demon's threat.

Durga - The Image
The word Durga has been derived from Sanskrit language which means a fort or a place that is difficult to reach. In the Images, Shakti is visible in the female form, wearing red clothes. Goddess has eighteen arms, carrying many items in her hands. The red color symbolizes fierceness and it suggests that goddess destroys evil and protects people from pain and misery caused by evil forces. Durga riding a tiger shows that she holds infinite power and uses it to save virtue and destroy evil. The eighteen arms holding weapons signify the unattainable energy that Maa Durga possesses. Different weapons suggest the idea that she can face any evil force without consideration.

Durga Chalisa
Shri Durga Chalisa is a "forty verse" prayer. These verses are usually recited or chanted by groups. The acts and deeds of Sri Durga are recalled in these verses to aid the devotee to meditate on virtuous and noble qualities.

Names of Durga
Goddess Durga is the embodiment of the divine force of the Almighty. The word Durga, in Sanskrit means "the invincible". Durga Devi represents power, strength, morality and protection. Maa Durga is the destroyer of sin and protector of morality. Goddess Durga is also known as Shakti (Power).

Important Avatars of Vishnu

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Lord Vishnu is prominent as the Preserver of the universe. Vishnu's restoring, shielding and conserving powers have been apparent in the world in a sequence of ten mortal incarnations known as Avatars. The avatars appear in order to balance the effect of good and evil upon the earth. It is believed that nine avatars have already descended, three in non human form, one in hybrid form and five in human form. Of the ten universally recognized avatars, nine have already appeared whereas the tenth is yet to appear. These ten avatars are also known by the name of Dasha Avatar of Vishnu.

All the Avatars are mortal form of Lord Vishnu, who himself is eternal, consistent and undeniable. The Dasha Avatar of Vishnu are briefly discussed here:

Matsya Avatar - Lord Vishnu in the form of Fish
The first avatar, Matsya, was taken by Lord Vishnu at the end of the Satyuga (last age), when a flood destroyed the world. Through this avatar, he saved humanity and the sacred Veda text from the flood.

Kurma Avatar - Lord Vishnu in the form of Turtle
The second avatar, Kurma, was taken in the Satyuga (last age) to help the Devas and to obtain the amrut (nectar) of immortality which was also sought after by the Asuras (demons). He helped in creating the world by giving support of his back through this avatar.

Varaha Avatar - Lord Vishnu in the form of Boar
The third avatar, Varaha, was taken at the end of the last flood in the Satyuga, when Bhoomi Devi (Earth Mother) sank to the bottom of the ocean. Vishnu, in the form of varaha, dived into the ocean and raised the goddess out of the ocean, supported by his two tusks.

Narsimha Avatar - Lord Vishnu in the form of Half - Man and Half - Lion
The fourth Avatar, Narsimha, was taken in the Satyuga (last age) to kill a tyrant demon king. Narsimha is the only avatar which was Hybrid in form being half human and half animal.

Vamana Avatar - Lord Vishnu in the form of a Dwarf
The fifth avatar, Vamana, appeared in the Tretayuga in order to destroy Bali, the king of demons. He came during a huge ceremony conducted by the king and cleverly asked for just three feet of land, measured by his own small feet. Vamana covered whole of the earth and the heaven, subduing Bali into his feet.

Parshurama Avatar - Lord Vishnu in the form of a Brahmin
The sixth avatar, Parshurama, appeared in the Tretayuga to destroy the warrior caste. When the kings of the earth became despotic and started to harm people and saints in the forest, Vishnu incarnated as Parshurama and destroyed all the kings who were harassing the people.

Rama Avatar - Lord Vishnu in the form of the King
The seventh avatar, Rama, the prince and king of Ayodhaya, appeared in the Tretayuga, to rescue Sita with his loyal servant Hanuman and his brother, Lakshmana, and killed the demon Ravana. Lord Rama became one of the most popular gods in the Hindu religion.

Krishna Avatar - Lord Vishnu in the form of a Cowherd's Boy
The eighth avatar, Krishna, along with his brother Balarama, appeared in the Dwaparyuga to kill the demon king, Kansa. Lord Krishna conveyed the message of love and humanity to the world. Krishna told the epic poem Bhagavad Gita to the warrior Arjuna ,in which he acclaimed : ''Whenever Dharma, or the situation of law and order, is endangered on this world, I incarnate onto this world to re establish Dharma, law and order, and to protect the Sadhus or saints and to destroy the evil elements of the society.''

Buddha Avatar - Lord Vishnu in the Form of Buddha
The ninth avatar, Mahavira Buddha, appeared in the Kalyuga, to teach the lesson of following a middle path in life. ''Buddha'' means 'the enlightened one'. He taught that all sorrow comes from attachments and desires, so it's better to curb all attachments in order to remain happy.

Kalki Avatar - Lord Vishnu in the form of Horse
The tenth Avatar, Kalki, ("Eternity", or "time", or "The Destroyer of foulness"), is yet to appear on the earth. And it is expected to appear at the end of Kali Yuga, the time period in which we currently exist, which will end in the year 428899 CE.

Lord Shiva

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Lord Shiva or Siva is considered as the destroyer of the world. Shiva is one of the most popular gods of the Hindu religion. Lord Siva forms the part of the Trimurti (Trinity), the other being Brahma, the creator and Vishnu, the preserver. Shiva is known for the complexity of his nature, representing contradictory qualities. He is the destroyer and the restorer, the great ascetic and the symbol of sensuality, the kind herdsman of souls and a wrathful avenger.

Lord Shiva- The Role
Lord Shiva represents the vital goodness in the form of Satyam, Shivam, Sundaram i.e.; Truth, Goodness and Beauty .Lord Shiva performs a celestial role of dissolution and recreation of the universe, that's why; he is mostly associated with the words, like destroyer and destruction. The role of Shiva is often confused with these terms and the difficulty arises, when the significance of his celestial role is not understood.

The conception is clear itself by a slight balance between the opposing forces of good and evil. When this balance gets disturbed and continuation of life becomes unfeasible, Lord Shiva dissolves the universe. This is known as '' pralay '' and it is done in order to create another cycle .So that the unliberated souls will get another opportunity to liberate themselves from the bondage of the material world. To put succinctly, Siva protects the souls from pain and suffering that is generated by the unhealthy universe.

Shiva - The Giver
Lord Shiva is known as the ''giver god'', lord of mercy and kindness. He always protects his devotees from evil forces like lust, greed and anger. He is the most kind -hearted God who grants boons and bestows grace to his devotees.

Shiva - The Image
Lord Shiva has the unclad body covered with ashes symbolizing the transcendental aspect of the universe. Siva's three matted locks represent the integration of the mental, physical and spiritual energies. The crescent moon becomes the part of lord's ornament symbolizing the time cycle through which creation evolves from the beginning to the end. The three eyes of Lord Shiva suggest: the Sun is his right eye, the Moon is the left eye and fire, the third eye.

The Snake around his neck symbolizes the yogic power, which he uses to dissolve and recreate the universe. The Rudraksha necklace worn by the lord shows that he uses his celestial powers without compromise,to maintain law and order. The trishula (trident), symbolizes the Lord's three fundamental powers of will (iccha), action (kriya) and knowledge (gyana).The damaru (drum) and its two sides separated from each other symbolizes the two entirely dissimilar states of existence, invisible and evident.

The bull, Nandi is linked with Shiva and it is considered as his vehicle. The bull symbolizes both power and ignorance. Tiger's skin makes Lord Shiva's clothing and his seat, which illustrates the idea that he is the source of potential energy during the dissolution of the universe. Thus, Lord Shiva is well-regarded as the ultimate organizer of the birth and death in the corporeal world.

Shiva - The Lingam
Shiva is worshipped in his invisible and an unborn form, known as the lingam. Lingam is always accompanied by the Yoni, which is the female part, adjoining the base of the lingam. The lingam symbolizes the male creative power of Shiva.

Shiva Chalisa
Shiva Chalisa is a "forty verse" prayer. Verses are recited or chanted by groups. The acts and deeds of Shiva are recalled in these verses to aid the devotee to meditate on virtuous and noble qualities.

Shiva Legends
Shiva is considered as the destroyer of the universe, in Hinduism. Shiva is a complex god, in terms of nature and represents contradictory qualities, being the destroyer and the restorer simultaneously. There are numerous legends surrounding Lord Shiva and his powers. Here're a few popular stories of Lord Shiva.

Names of Shiva
Lord Shiva is considered as the destroyer of the Universe as per the Hindu Mythology. Shiva is one of the most popular gods of the Hindus. Lord Shiva is a complex god like goddess Kali, being destroyer and restorer at the same time. Shiva is also known as Bhole Shankar, the innocent god, who gets appeased easily.

Characteristics :	Destroyer, Kind Hearted
Other Names :	Shambhu Nath, Bhole Shankar, Shiv Shankar
Principal Scriptures:	Shiva Mahapurana
Consort :	Parvati
Sons :	Ganesha, Kartikay
Abode :	Mount Kailash
Vahana (Vehicle) :	Nandi (The Bull Representing Strength and Happiness)
Mula Mantra :	Om Namah Shivaye
Shiva Gayatri Mantra:	Aum Panchvakraye Vidmahe Mahadevaye Dheemahi Tanno Rudra Prachodayat

Lord Vishnu

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Lord Vishnu is considered as the chief god in Hindu religion and Indian mythology. Vishnu, the preserver, forms the part of the trinity while the other two being Brahma and Shiva, respectively, as the creator and destroyer of the universe. It is believed that Vishnu is an eternal and universal spirit associated with the primeval waters that pervaded before the creation of the universe.

Vishnu - The Name
Lord Vishnu is known by numerous names and a thousand names are given in the book '' Vishnu Sahasranama''. The name Vishnu has its roots in a Sanskrit word 'Vish ', which means to pervade. God Vishnu is all pervading but known more by the avatars (incarnation) he took on the earth.

Vishnu - the Preserver
To understand the concept of Vishnu being the preserver of the world, one has to understand the two beliefs of Hinduism. The first is that men attain salvation by faithfully following predetermined paths of duty. The Second is that powers of good and evil (gods and demons) are in regular controversy to rule over the world. It is believed that whenever evil prevails over good in order to win, Vishnu comes down to earth in some mortal form to save righteousness. As per the Puranas, Vishnu is not allowed to interfere in the situations directly. So, he takes different avatar and act in manners that will re-establish proper balance between good and evil.

Vishnu - The Image
According to numerous Purana, Vishnu is the ultimate omnipresent reality. Still, he is depicted as a four-armed male-form indicating his all-powerful and all-pervasive nature. The skin color is new-cloud-like-blue which indicates his all-pervasive nature, blue being the color of the infinite sky as well as the infinite ocean on which he resides. Vishnu has the mark of sage Bhrigu's feet and the srivatsa mark, symbolizing his consort Lakshmi, on his chest. A crown decorates his head symbolizing his supreme authority. He rests on Ananta, the immortal and infinite snake.

Avatars of Vishnu
Lord Vishnu is prominent as the Preserver of the universe. Vishnu's restoring, shielding and conserving powers have been apparent in the world in a sequence of ten mortal incarnations known as Avatars. The avatars appear in order to balance the effect of good and evil upon the earth. It is believed that nine avatars have already descended, three in non human form, one in hybrid form and five in human form.