What is Purnima? Purnima is the Sanskrit word for the day of a full moon. What makes purnima special? In most Sanatan Dharma cultures (and other religions/cultures), purnima is a very auspicious day celebrated with many festivals. Some examples are Kartik Poornima, Buddha Poornima and Guru Purnima to name a few. Scientifically, on this day, […]
Introduction This article intends to break down the structure of all Hindu scriptures. There is a definitive structure which most who consider themselves educated in Sanatan Dharma do not know and this article intends to draw the lines (where applicable) to help anyone understand. Though some meanings and interpretations may defer, the underline knowledge, sources […]
Introduction The literal translation of Upanishads is “to sit near” or “to sit next to”. This is in relation to a student sitting next to his or her teacher. The Upanishads form part of the most revered text in Sanatan Dharma, the Vedas. It is the latest and latter part of the Vedas and hence […]
Gita Jayanti, the celebration of wisdom encapsulated in the Bhagavad Gita! It’s observed on the day when Lord Krishna delivered the sacred scripture, the Bhagavad Gita, to Arjuna on the battlefield of Kurukshetra. The Bhagavad Gita, often referred to as the Gita, is a conversation between Lord Krishna and Arjuna, taking place on the brink […]
It’s a beautiful celebration observed by Hindus, especially in the South Indian culture. Picture rows of oil lamps adorning homes, creating a warm and vibrant atmosphere. This is the what you will see in places that observe this auspicious occasion. Kaarthigai Deepam is essentially the Festival of Lights, celebrated on the full moon day of […]
Makar Sankranti, celebrated annually on January 14th, marks the transition of the sun into the zodiac sign of Capricorn, or Makara in Sanskrit. It’s not just a date on the calendar it’s a celebration of nature, spirituality, and the profound connection between the two. Origins and Significance: Rooted in ancient Indian traditions, Makar Sankranti holds […]
Thai Pongal, a harvest festival that fills the air with the aroma of freshly harvested crops! It’s a significant celebration for Tamil Hindus and is typically observed in the Tamil month of Thai, which falls in January. The word “Pongal” translates to “boiling over” or “overflowing,” and the festival is named after the traditional dish […]
Introduction Adhik Maas, also known as the extra or leap month in the Hindu lunar calendar, is a fascinating and occasionally occurring phenomenon. Understanding the Hindu Lunar Calendar: Observances and Traditions: The Story of Adhik Maas and Lord Vishnu: The assignment of Adhik Maas (the extra or leap month) to Lord Vishnu is often associated […]
Introduction Annakut Govardhan Pooja is a joyous Hindu occasion that marks the day when Lord Krishna lifted the Govardhan Hill to protect the residents of Vrindavan from the wrath of Lord Indra. The occasion is observed with devotion, elaborate rituals, and the offering of a diverse array of food items to Lord Krishna. Historical Background […]
Introduction Chitra Pournami is a vibrant celebration that revolves around the beauty and spiritual significance of the full moon in the month of Chaitra. Though not directly originating from specific Vedic scriptures, the festival has evolved over time and is deeply ingrained in Hindu culture. Observances and Significances: Vedic Connection While Chitra Pournami itself may […]
Introduction Dhan Trayodashi, falling on the thirteenth day of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) in the month of Kartik (October-November), is celebrated with great enthusiasm across Bharat. The term “Dhan” means wealth, and “Trayodashi” refers to the thirteenth day. Dhan Trayodashi is rooted in various Puranas, particularly the Vishnu Purana and the Skanda Purana. The […]
Introduction Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in Hinduism. This festival of lights signifies the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, and knowledge over ignorance. Diwali is marked by vibrant decorations, family gatherings, and the illumination of countless lamps. Origins and Legends Ramayana Connection: In the […]
Introduction In the supreme realm of Sanatan Dharma, the ancient religion that forms the foundation of Hinduism, Ekadashi holds a sacred place. This significant ritual of fasting carries deep spiritual meaning and is observed on the 11th day of each Hindu lunar fortnight. By abstaining from food and performing various religious activities during Ekadashi, devotees […]
Introduction Holika Dahan, also known as Choti Holi or the Festival of Bonfires, is a vibrant Hindu celebration observed on the night before Holi, the Festival of Colors. This ancient festival holds deep cultural and mythological significance, offering a spectacle of fire, rituals, and joyous festivities. Date and Timing Holika Dahan usually takes place on […]
Introduction Maha Shivaratri, translated as the “Great Night of Shiva” or “A great night of auspiciousness” is a Hindu occasion observed in reverence to Lord Shiva. Falling on the 14th night of the dark fortnight in the Hindu month of Phalguna (usually February or March), Maha Shivaratri is a time of spiritual awakening, devotion, and […]
Masi Magham is a significant occasion observed in the Tamil month of Masi, which typically falls between February and March. It holds cultural and spiritual importance among Tamil Hindus and is often associated with sacred baths in rivers or water bodies during the Magham star. Origin and Mythological Significance Samudra Manthan: The story of Samudra […]
Introduction Thai Poosam, an auspicious occasion celebrated by millions of Hindus, primarily Tamilians, is a poignant expression of devotion and spiritual fervour. Date and Occurrence It is celebrated on the full moon day in the Tamil month of Thai, which typically falls between January and February in the Gregorian calendar. The bright full moon is […]
Introduction Vasanth Panchami, also known as Saraswati Puja, is a joyous Hindu festival that heralds the arrival of spring. Celebrated on the fifth day (Panchami) of the Hindu month of Magha, which usually falls in January or February, this festival is dedicated to Goddess Saraswati, the embodiment of knowledge, music, and arts. Significance and Symbolism […]
The Gujarati New Year, also known as Bestu Varas or Nutan Varsh, is celebrated with enthusiasm and joy in the state of Gujarat, India. It is observed on the first day of the month of Kartik in the Hindu calendar, which usually falls in October or November of the Gregorian calendar. Calculation of Gujarati New […]
Guru Purnima, a sacred Hindu festival, unfolds on the full moon day in the month of Ashadha (June-July). It stands as a beacon of reverence, a day when devotees express gratitude to their Gurus, acknowledging their pivotal role in the journey of enlightenment. The source of all your spirituality stems from guru. Historical and Cultural […]