Happy GuruPurnima Wishes

Divya's Cooking Journey Wishes you all a Very Happy Guru Purnima.Pray your Gurus by chanting them ,have their blessings.

Deepavali / Diwali 2014

Diwali is one of the Indian festivals celebrated all over India, with equal enthusiasm and zeal. The word 'Diwali' is the abbreviation of the Sanskrit word 'Deepavali', which means 'rows of lights'. One of the major Hindu festivals, it is celebrated to commemorate the victory of good over the evil, when Lord Rama defeated Ravana and rescued his wife Sita from his custody. It is predominantly a five-day festival, with a number of customs and rituals followed during each day. People prepare themselves for the festival weeks ahead, by cleaning and decorating their premises.

The main festival day falls on the no-moon day of the dark half of Kartik, according to the Hindu lunar calendar. Celebrated with vigor and gaiety by people of every religion, the magical effect of Diwali creates an atmosphere of joy and festivity. Innumerable lamps are lit on the roofs and windowsills of the houses, thus, giving a divine look to the whole scenario. It is said that Lakshmi, Goddess of Wealth, roams the earth on this day and enters the house that is pure, clean and brightly illuminated. Therefore, people, before exchanging gifts and bursting crackers, offer prayers to the deity.

Young and old, men and women, all dress up in new clothes on this day to illuminate their home with diyas. The deities of Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha are worshipped on Diwali, after which, the people share sweets and gifts with their relatives and friends. Fireworks, which attract the kids the most, form the highlight of the festival. The festive mood extends to the couple of days following the main day of the festival. Deepavali symbolizes the victory of righteousness and the lifting of spiritual darkness. It is the celebration of victory of good over evil - and the glory of light.

Diwali 2014

Diwali falls on a new moon day in the month of October or November. Since the precise moment of the new moon falls on different dates depending on geographical location, the date of Diwali also depends on one's location. Click Here to know the date.

History of Diwali:

The festival of Diwali is celebrated by Indians throughout the world in a joyous mood, with zeal and enthusiasm. The festival is predominated by colorful display of lights, bursting of crackers, cleanliness, sweets, lots of shopping, happiness. The festive spirit brings people of different communities closer, to celebrate the vibrant festival in the most blissful and lively way. Like most of the festivals in India, Diwali too has its base in mythology and there is a very interesting history about this festival.

Five Days of Diwali Celebrations & Rituals:

The first day of this festival begins with 'DhanTrayodashi' or 'Dhanteras'. After the Dhanvantari Trayodashi, the second day of Diwali is called 'NarakChaturdashi', which is popular as 'Chhoti Diwali'. The third day of Diwali, which is also called 'BadiDiwali' is the main day of celebrations of the festival of diwali. The fourth day of the festival is devoted to Govardhan Pooja (worship of Lord Govardhan Parvat). The fifth day of the festival is Bhai Dooj, the time to honor the brother-sister relationship.

1.Dhanteras History:

The first day of Diwali celebration is marked by Dhanteras. According to the legends, during the churning of ocean by the Gods and the demons, Dhanvantari - the physician of the Gods came out of the ocean on the day of Dhanteras, with a pot of amrita that was meant for the welfare of the humankind. This day also marks the arrival of Goddess Lakshmi, which is celebrated by drawing small footprints of the deity, with rice flour and vermilion powder.

People renovate, decorate their houses and workplaces on this day and make traditional 'Rangoli' motifs on the entrance, to welcome Goddess Lakshmi. Lamps and candles are lit throughout the night. It is considered auspicious to buy gold and silver on this day. Many people opt for buying new utensils on this day. In Maharashtra, offerings of lightly pounded dry coriander seeds with jaggery are made to the Goddess. Rural people revere their cattle on this day and cows are considered especially auspicious.

2.Narak Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali) History

One famous story behind the celebrations of Diwali is about the demon king Narakasur, who was ruler of Pragjyotishpur, a province to the South of Nepal. During a war, he defeated Lord Indra and snatched away the magnificent earrings of Mother Goddess Aditi, who was not only the ruler of Suraloka, but also a relative of Lord Krishna's wife - Satyabhama. Narakasur also imprisoned sixteen thousand daughters of Gods and saints in his harem. A day before Diwali, Lord Krishna killed Narakasur, released the jailed daughters and restored the precious earrings of Mother Goddess Aditi.

On second day, people take bath before sunrise, anoint themselves with oil and 'Ubtan' (scrub made up of gram flour and fragrant powders). Bengalis believe that Goddess Kali killed the demon Raktavija on this day. A general customs followed during the second day of Diwali is to burst crackers. People illuminate their homes with diya, as to welcome the set the mood for celebrations in the following day.

 3.Diwali And Shri Ram of Ayodhyaa:

The most famous legend behind the celebrations of Diwali is about the prince of Ayodhya Nagri - Lord Shri Ram. According to the legend, the king of Lanka, Ravan, kidnapped Lord Ram's wife (Sita) from the jungle, where they were staying as per the instructions of King Dashratha, father of Lord Ram. Then Ram attacked Lanka, killed Ravan and released Sita from the custody. He returned to Ayodhya with his wife Sita and younger brother Lakshamana after fourteen years.

Therefore, the people of Ayodhyaa decorated their homes as well as Ayodhyaa, by lighting tiny diyas, in order to welcome their beloved prince Shri Ram and Devi Sita. It was the day of 'Kartik Amavasyaa' when they also celebrated the victory of Shri Ram over the King of Lanka, Ravan. Ram is considered the symbol of good and the positive things and Ravan represents the evils. Therefore, Diwali is considered the festival, which establishes the victory of good over the evil. On the night of Diwali, people light diyas, which is again an icon of positive energy to conquer darkness, the is symbol of negative energy.

The third day is the main day of the Diwali festival. Jains have their own religious significance of the day, because they believe that Lord Mahavir attained 'Nirvana' (or Eternal Bliss) on the day. Swami Dayananda Saraswati, the great saint who gave rise to Hindu Renaissance, also left the mortal world on this day. On this day, people wear new clothes and share gifts and sweets with their friends and relatives. Women prepare delicacies and whole house is illuminated with 'diyas' and candles. Fireworks and crackers are the kids' favorites on this day.

4.Govardhan Puja History:

'Govardhan' is a small hillock situated at 'Braj', near Mathura. The legends in 'Vishnu Puraan' have it that the people of Gokul used to worship and offer prayers to Lord Indra for the rains, because they believed that it were He, who was responsible for rainfall for their welfare. However, Lord Krishna told them that it was Mount Govardhan (Govardhan Parvat) and not Lord Indra, who caused rains. Therefore, they should worship the former and not the latter.

People did the same, which made Lord Indra so furious that the people of Gokul had to face heavy rainfall because of his anger. Lord Krishna came forward to ensure their security and after performing worship and offering prayers to Mount Govardhan, he lifted it as an umbrella, on the little finger of his right hand, so that everyone could take shelter under it. After this event, Lord Krishna was also known as Giridhari or Govardhandhari.

On the 4th day is the 'Govardhan-Puja' or 'Annakoot'. In the temples of Mathura and Nathadwara, the deities are bathed with milk and adorned with precious clothes and ornaments. Then offerings of a large variety of delicacies are made to them

5.Bhai Dooj History:

According to the legends, Lord Yamraj, the God of Death, visited his sister Yamuna on the 'Shukla Paksha Dwitiya' day in the Hindi month of 'Kartik'. When Yamraj reached Yamuna's home, she welcomed him by performing his aarti, applying 'Tilak' on his forehead and by putting a garland around his neck. Yamuna also cooked varieties of dishes, prepared many sweets for her brother and offered all those to Him.

Lord Yamraj ate all those delicious dishes and when he was finished, he showered blessings on Yamuna and gave her a boon that if a brother visits his sister on this day, he would be blessed with health and wealth. This is why this day of Bhayya Duj is also known by the name of 'Yam-Dwitiya'. Thus, it has become a tradition that on the day of Bhai-Dooj for the brothers to visit their sisters' home and offer them gifts. Sisters also make various dishes for their brothers and give gifts to them. The 5th day or the last day of this festival is called ' Bhai Duj '.

History Of Sikh Community's Diwali

In the Sikh community, Diwali celebrations have special importance as for them it, is popular as the day when their sixth Guru, Guru Har Govind ji came back from the captivity of the fort of Gwalior city. The people illuminated lamps in the way to Shri Harmandhir Sahib, which is known by the name of 'the Golden Temple', to honor and welcome their beloved Guru.

History of Jain Community's Diwali

For the Jain community, the festival of Diwali has special significance. It is the day when the famous Jain prophet Bhagvaan Mahaveer, the founder of Jainism, attained 'Nirvana'. Therefore, the people of Jain community celebrate the festival of Diwali in remembrance of Lord Mahavira.

Stories & Legends of Deepavali

Return of Shri Ram To Ayodhyaa

The most famous legend behind the celebrations of Diwali is about the prince of Ayodhya Nagri - Lord Shri Ram. The king of Lanka, Ravana, kidnapped Ram's wife - Sita from the jungle, where they were staying as per the instructions of King Dashratha, father of Lord Ram. In order to freed Sita from Ravana's custody, Ram attacked him. This was followed by a war, in which, Ram defeated Ravan and released Sita from his custody. On the arrival of Lord Ram along with his wife Sita, people of Ayodhya decorated their homes as well as the city of Ayodhyaa by lighting tiny diyas all over, in order to welcome their beloved prince Shri Ram and Devi Sita.

Incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi

On the auspicious new moon day, which is 'Amavasyaa' of the Hindi month of Kartik, the Goddess of wealth and prosperity - Lakshmi was incarnated. She appeared during the churning of the ocean, which is known as 'Samudra Manthan', by the demons on one side and 'Devataas' (Gods) on the other side. Therefore, the worship of Goddess Lakshmi, the Lakshmi Pujan, on the day of Diwali, became a tradition.

Lord Krishna Destroyed Demon Narakasur

One famous story behind the celebrations of Diwali is about the demon king Narakasur, who was ruler of Pragjyotishpur, a province to the South of Nepal. After acquiring victory over Lord Indra during a war, Narakasur snatched away the magnificent earrings of Mother Goddess Aditi, who was not only the ruler of Suraloka, but also a relative of Lord Krishna's wife - Satyabhama. Narakasur also imprisoned sixteen thousand daughters of Gods and saints in his harem. With the support of Lord Krishna, Satyabhama defeated Narakasur, released all the women from his harem and restored the magnificent earrings of Mother Goddess Aditi.

The Return of The Pandavas

The great Hindu epic 'Mahabharata' has another interesting story related to the 'Kartik Amavasyaa'. According to the story, 'the Pandavas', the five brothers Yudhishthhira, Bhima, Arjuna, Nakula and Sahdeva, were sentenced to thirteen years exile as a result of their defeat against 'the Kauravas' - Duryodhana and his ninety nine brothers, at the game of dice. Therefore, the Pandavas spent thirteen years in the jungles and returned to their kingdom on the day of 'Kartik Amavasyaa'. On their return, the people of their kingdom welcomed the Pandavas by celebrating the event by lighting the earthen lamps all over in their city.

Coronation of King Vikramaditya

Another legend or story about Diwali celebrations relates to one of the greatest Hindu King - Vikramaditya. It was the day when he was coroneted and the people celebrated this event by lighting tiny earthen 'diyas'.

 Importance of Diwali

Diwali is the Indian festival that brings a series of festivals with it. One after another, we get a chance to celebrate five ceremonious occasions. The people of all age groups and classes with equal zeal and enthusiasm celebrate Diwali throughout India. They put on new apparels and participate in the various activities that are related to Diwali celebrations. It is a festival of celebrations such as lightings, crackers, cleanliness, colorful rangoli making, social gatherings to exchange greetings and sharing sweets with your loved ones. Diwali is a festival filled with spiritualism and religious activities, such as worship of Goddess Lakshmi, worship of Lord Ganesha, worship of Ma Kali, worship of Lord Chitragupta and worship of Govardhan Parvat.

Traditional Deepavali Pooja

Diwali Pooja is performed in different families in a different way depending upon their regional and cultural customs. In villages, even the cattle are adorned and worshipped by farmers on this occasion as they regard them as their main source of their income. In south India also, cows are offered special veneration this day as they are supposed to be the incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi. However, in most of the families the Pooja is done in a simple way by installing the idols of Goddess Laxmi and Lord Ganesha on the eve of Diwali.

Diwali Puja Thali ~ Diwali Pooja Plate

Diwali Puja Thali is a steel or copper or golden plate containing all the essentials require during the poojas of Lord Ganesh and Goddess Sri Mahalakshmi.Diwali Puja Thali contains the idols of Lord Ganesh and Goddess Mahalakshmi, in the middle a small bowl for wet kumkum (tilak / tika). And around that small bowl, it contains several small bowls for powdered kumkum, haldi (turmeric powder), consecrated rice (Akshita), Aarti kappur (Camphor tablets), betel nuts, dry fruits, mishri (sugar) and etc..

You can design Diwali Puja as your wish. Apply your thoughts and rock with your innovative Diwali Puja Thali.

The Pooja begins by the gathering of the entire family in the Pooja room and installation of the new idols of the deities in the small mandir at home. The senior most member of the family along with the priest of the family performs all the ritual. The ritual begins with the purification ceremony, each of the deities is bathed first with water, then with panchamitra (a mixture of milk, curd, ghee sugar & honey) and then with water again, this is actually a process of the purification of the idols before deities are invoked into it. After this, five pieces of ghee diyas are lit in front of the deities in order to drive away the shadows of evil spirits. The pooja thali containing all kids of prasads are then placed infront of the deities.

All the members of the family are then asked to close their eyes and chant the mantras as recited by the priest. Even if they do not know the mantra they can simply close their eyes and remember the deities with full devotion. It is said that if you remember the God by true heart, they certainly come to your place to bless you. Once the mantras are over, all the members of the family offer auspicious items like abir (red colour), sindoor (vermillion) and haldi (turmeric), flower and sweet dishes to the deities. They also light incense sticks and diyas infront of the deities and seek their blessings. People also offer silver or gold coins, nariyal (Coconut) and jewelleries to the deities.

Once the offering and individual Pooja is over, people do arti and sing bhajans for welcoming the god in to their home and thanking them for being kind to their family till now. Ganesh Aarti is followed by Lakshmi Aarti. The aarti thali is then taken in each room of the home to purify the entire home. After the aarti is over, the priest of the family is presented with gifts and the process of lighting diyas in the entire home begins. After the lighting is done, people take the ‘prasad’ and burst crackers.

"Deep Jyothi Parabrahma, Deep Jyothi Janardhana

Deepo Hartume Papam, Sandhya Deepam Namostute "

Above is the prayer to the ‘Deepam’ or the light. Diyas represent light or knowledge. Diwali Diyas are the embodiment of goodness, virtuosity, harmony and eternal truth.

Diwali is ‘festival of lights.’ It is celebrated on no moon day of Kartika or on a dark night. But on that day the darkness has no place as zillions of diyas lighten up the globe. And wherever there is light there is no place for the darkness. 

Diwali Diyas – Significance 

Diwali connotes the victory of good over the evil. There are number of legends connected to Diwali, all of them with one same underlying principle of establishing knowledge, wisdom, goodness, happiness, peace, truth and prosperity all over the world. Diwali Diyas are the symbols that show the right path for the soul so that there should be no ignorance and nuisance in the world. This idea is universal and is not confined to Indian or Hindu idealogy. Thus Diyas are the scientifically spiritual forms of knowledge that enlighten the aura with brilliance, amidst the sheen of it ignorance and evil are engulfed.

Diwali Diyas Decorations:

Diya is a small earthen lamp made of clay. Ghee or oil, especially gingelly oil, are used as the fuel. Cotton wool is used as the wick. They are also known as Deepams and are considered holy and auspicious. They are purchased on the day before Diwali.

Now-a-days the diyas are not just baked mud ones but are embellished beautifully by colours, designs and crafts. Various shops showcase the brilliant designs of diyas and lamps crafted by ceramic designers from all over the country.

Diyas also come with zaris and mirrors. Latest diyas are the delightful ones with sharply cut edges, embellished with cut work, covered and filled with colorful wax. Special Diyas called ‘Ganesha Diyas’ and ‘Lakshmi Diyas’ come with 21 or 11 spouts. Leaf shaped and rose shaped diyas are famous these days. Some colorful diyas show the vivid shades of blue, yellow, red, pink with well-crafted gold and silver borders 

Happy Diwali wishes to all of My Family Members,Friends &Readers.

Celebrate a Wonderful Diwali with Joy & Happiness.

Polala Amavasya

Polala Amavasya is observed in Sravanamas every year. Amavasya of Shravana Month is known as Polala Amavasya. Polala Amavasya dedicated to goddess Poleramma. The puja is done on Sravanamas amavasya day means no moon day so it is called as Polala Amavasya. Poleramma is a local deity, and is considered to be one of the incarnations of Goddess Durga.

On the auspicious day of Polala Amavasya women wake up early and clean the house then prepare prasadam. This pooja will performed by married women so Poleramma can safe guard their children from the diseases and death. Mostly diseases like Chicken-pox and Small pox. Because of the Rainy season flu like diseases spread easily for children so, women will perform the pooja to protect their children from diseases and prepare prasadams like Thaligalu Paravannam (Rice flour noodles in rich coconut and cashew paste), Billa Kudumulu (Streamed Rice flour chapathi). They offers pooja to poleramma like chanting Shakthi or devi Mantra, Astrotram, 108 names of devi etc "Raksha Thoram" or "Rakstha Daaram"(Sacred Thread) is also Worshipped during the Pooja. Women and Children tie Raksha Daaram in their hands to seek her blessings.

Polala Amavasya is mostly a local festival in Andhra Pradesh and it is also observed in Karnataka, Tamilnadu and Orissa. Polala Amavasya is also known as Pithori Amavasya. Women draw an image of Pochamma at puja place and offer shodashopachar puja to the Goddess. Goddess Poleramma vratam/puja is quite similar to the Goddess Sheetal Saptami puja observed in North India

The Polala Amavasya Vrat Story:

Once there used to live seven brothers. All of them had children. The wives of all the seven brothers wished to perform the Polalaa Amavasysa Vratam. But the kid of the last brother dies and hence all of them were unable to perform the Vrat. As if someone dies in a house, the whole family cannot perform any Vratams or celebrate any festivals.

This process continued for six years. And each year the kid of the last brother used to die. On the seventh year also, when the kid of the seventh brother dies, the wife of the seventh brother fears that the wives of other brothers would scold her and accuse of her being the reason for they not being able to perform the Vrat, she hides the dead body of the kid in the home and goes to perform the Vrat.

In the night after the Vrat, the wife of the seventh brother takes the dead kid on her shoulder to the Poleramma temple on the outskirts. She cries looking at her dead kid. In the mean time the Goddess Polerama who has just started towards the village for patrolling, sees the seventh brothers wife and asks the reason for her worry.

The wife replies that, this the body of her seventh dead son and every year her sons have been dying for the past seven years because of which she or the wives of other brothers were not able to perform the Polalala Amavasya Vratam. This year she did not inform the death of her seventh son and perfomed the Vrat along with others. She brought the dead kid here and was crying.

The Goddess felt sad for her and showed mercy on her. She gave her some Akshintalu (Turmeric rice grains) and asked her to sprinkle them in the place where she had buried the other kids and call them by their names.

The seventh did as the Goddess said and as she called out the name after sprinkling the Akshintalu, each of her son came alive.

She returned home with all the seven kids. Everyone asked who was she able to get her seven kids back. She narrated the whole story of what happened.

From that day onwards, everyone in the village started to perform the Polala Amavasya Vratam.

Note:  There is no Udyapana for Polala Amavasya Vratam. This is can be done by everyone.

Happy VaraLakshmi Vratam Wishes

 Second Friday in the SravanaMasam Month is the VaraLakshmi Vratam festival.

Varalakshmi Vratham is an important ritual for married women mainly in Maharashtra and South India. Varalakshmi Vratham falls on August 8, 2014. Devotees of Goddess Lakshmi, goddess of wealth and prosperity, observe the vratham. Varalakshmi refers to the goddess granting boons. On this day, worship of goddess Lakshmi is equivalent to worshipping the goddess of Wealth, Earth, Pleasure, Strength, Fame, Learning, Love and Peace –Ashtalaksmi.

Varalakshmi Vratham is based on Hindu mythology which says that the Goddess Parvati asked Shiva about a fast that would be beneficial to women. Shiva explained the importance of the Varalakshmi Vratha and this conversation takes place in the Skanda Purana.

The Varalakshmi Vratam puja is an important ritual performed during the vratam. Women start the auspicious day by taking a bath and wearing new clothes and jwellery. They clean and decorate their homes with rangolis. The women then prepare for the vratha by arranging the sacred pot called kalasha. The pot is filled with water and rice and symbolizes prosperity. Betel and mango leaves are used to cover the pot. A coconut smeared with vermillion and turmeric is placed on the kalasha which is then placed on a plate with rice.

The puja begins with the worship of the deity Ganesha followed by goddess Mahalakshmi. The next part of the puja involves toram worship which is a bunch of nine threads with a knot on each. The thread is tied on one end to the right wrist of the woman performing the ritual while the other is tied to the kalasha. Lakshmi Ashtottara Shatanamam is chanted during the ritual. The goddess is then offered nine varieties of savories and sweets during the puja. To conclude the vratam they sing hymns praising the goddess and offer sweets to another married woman considering her to be the goddess.

Every Woman would like to celebrate this festival with Love.Some of the married ladies perform the Varalakshmi Vratam today according to their tradition and offers pooja to the Goddess and celebrate with inviting  the family members,relatives,&Friends.

I too like this Festival and it is also a Happy day for me because I am  born on this festival day ,my parents ,family members  relatives showers me on this day with their wishes & blessings.

So friends I wish you all to celebrate a very Happy VaraLakshmi Vratam Wishes & attain the blessings of the Goddess.

Below are some of the Pictures& videos  of this festival from me ,Hope you all may like it .

The below song is a collection from my Mother-in-Law and I tuned in this way.

Tholi Ekadashi / Devshayani Ekadashi

According to Hindu Calendar, Devshayani Ekadashi  takes place during Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight) in the Hindu month of Ashad. The day of Devshayani Ekadashi is devoted to Lord Vishnu. Devotees observe a Vrat (fast) to please the Lord on the day of Devshayani Ekadashi.

Parana Muhurat is the auspicious time to break the fast of Devshayani Ekadashi. It is believed that one should terminate his/her fast within Dwadashi Tithi (succeeding day).

In 2014,Devshayani Ekadashi is on July 8th ,Tuesday.

Once, there was a king named Mandata. He was very generous toward his subjects and was immensely popular among the common men. Moreover, Mandata was very honest and was engaged in numerous auspicious activities. But, one event changed the fate of his kingdom. The kingdom received no rains for a period of three years and this affected the prosperity of the place, to a large extent. Mandata performed several rites, but could not bring back the prosperity of his kingdom.

Henceforth, he set out on a journey when he met several holy men with whom he discussed his problem. But he could not find any solution from them. Finally, he met Sage Angira and advised by him to follow the Vrat of Ekadashi in the month of Ashad. Mandata followed his advice and observed Ashad Ekadashi Vrat with a devout heart. As a result, his kingdom received heavy rains and the prosperity was regained, after a drought for three years. Since then, the day of Devshayani Ekadashi came into being.

Devshayani Ekadasi is also popular as Deva Sayani Ekadashi, Shayana Ekadashi, Tholi Ekadashi, Pedda Ekadashi, Vishnu Sayan Ekadashi, Harivasara Ekadashi, Maha Ekadashi, Ashada Devasayani Ekadashi and Padma Ekadashi in different regions of India.

How to follow the rituals of Devshayani Ekadashi ?

Following are the rituals that are to be followed on the day of Devshayani Ekadasi .

Prayers and hymns are chanted to pacify the souls of deceased forefathers on Devshayani Ekadashi.

Devotees who observe Devshayani Ekadashi Vrat, abstain from consuming any food item on the day of Ekadashi.

The fast begins from the day of Dashami, while observing the Vrat devotees are not allowed to consume more than a meal.

Rituals are performed in the afternoon for the departed members of the family.

Ashwamedha Yagna (horse sacrifice) ritual is performed on Devshayani Ekadashi.

The fast is finally terminated on the next day during the Parana period.

 The Mythological significance of Devshayani Ekadashi:

 Significance Of Devshayani Ekadashi:

According to Hindu mythology, it is believed that Vishnu falls asleep on the day of Devshayani Ekadashi in Ksheera Sagar (ocean of milk). Hence, the day is known as Devshayani Ekadashi (sleeping moment of god on eleventh day).

Vishnu awakens from his sleep after a period of four months, on the day of Prabodhini Ekadashi. His sleeping period is known as Chaturmas (four months). Devshayani Ekadashi marks the commencement of Chaturmas. It is believed that if devotees follow a Vrat on Devshayani Ekadashi, he/she is blessed with a blissful life.

Observe the day of Devshayani Ekadashi and lead a charming life in the near future. All you need to do is to purify your heart, not with water or elixir, but with a devout heart full of dedication toward Lord Vishnu.

PelalaPindi /PopCorn Powder is the recipe/Naivedyam is offered & taken today

Divya's Cooking Journey  wishes you all a blessed Devshayani Ekadashi in 2014!!

Note:

Here you can find the few links about this Festival in Telugu .I like those to share ,Have a Wonderful look friends(Telugu Lovers) to this .

http://mana-samskruthi.blogspot.com/2011/07/blog-post.html

http://durgeswara.blogspot.com/2013/07/blog-post_3803.html

http://eenadu.net/Editorial/Antaryamiinner.aspx?item=070714anta

Narasimha Jayanti

Vaishakha Shukla Chaturdashi is celebrated as Narasimha Jayanti. Lord Narasimha was the 4th incarnation of Lord Vishnu. On Narasimha Jayanti day Lord Vishnu appeared in the form of Narasimha, a half lion and half man, to kill Demon Hiranyakashipu. 

The fourth and the greatest incarnation of Lord Vishnu amongst his ten prime avataras is Lord Narasimha who emerged out of a pillar as Man-Lion, i.e.,Lion's head on Man's trunk. He devoured Demon-Lord Hiranyakashyapu who was Master Prahalada's father. When Prahalada was in the womb of his mother, Queen Kayaadu, he had the fortune of listening to Devarishi Naradha regarding Lord Vishnu's compassion towards his devotees. Hence right from his birth Prahalada was dedicated to the name of Lord Vishnu.

Hiranyakashyapu who was an arch rival of Lord Vishnu and a symbol of torture to noble souls, could not bear with his son and started torturing young Prahalada in many ways after trying through his henchmen to advice Prahalada that Hiranyakashyapu himself was the prime god and Lord Vishnu stood null in front of Hiranyakashyapu. Young Prahalada denounced such thoughts and stuck to his wisdom that Lord Vishnu was "Purushothama", the supreme. One day, Hiranyakashyapu screamed at Prahalada and questioned him as to where his Lord Vishnu was present and whether he could save Prahalada from death at his own hands.

To this, Prahalada replied that Lord Vishnu is omnipresent. Hiranyakashyapu pointed out at a pillar in his palace and asked Prahalada whether Vishnu was present in it. Prahalada's reply was affirmative. The Demon using his Gadha(Mace) broke open the pillar and there emerged Lord Narasimha who slain the demon using his sharp paws and blessed Prahalad as his topmost devotee on earth.To mark the above incidence and to pay our respect to the Lord, Narasimha Jayanthi is celebrated at several temples.

Vasavi Jayanti

Source : Internet.

Vasavi Kanyakapara-meswari Devi (popularly known as Vasavi Matha) sacrificed her life to avoid the bloodshed and war. Her message to the world is Dharmam-Seelam-Ahimsa (Dharma-Integrity-Non Violence). Bharath Ratna Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, former President of India, has indeed very rightly described Goddess Vasavi as the first ever known embodiment of non-violence in the world.

Sri Kanyaka Parameshwari (Vasavi) Jayanti:

Vasavi Jayanti is the appearance day of Sri Kanyaka Parameshwari. Sri Kanyaka Parmeshwari (Vasavi) is a form of Devi who is popular in Andra Pradesh, Karnataka, and other areas in South India. According to one legend, Vasavi is considered to be a manifestation of Parvati, who was born into the community of Vaisyas as a beautiful young maiden. Another account from a text known as the Kanyakapurana states that Vasavi was the wife of Indra (Vasava is a name of Indra), who was born into this world in the Vaisya community. She was born as the daughter of a Vaisya ruler, Kusumasreshti. When a king wanted to marry her, she refused. She revealed her divine nature and entered a sacred fire.

Vasavi emphasizes the virtues of love and character. She represents the importance of education, art, music, and dance. She protects her devotees from temptations and preserves family traditions. 

There are three main festivals associated with her worship: (1) Vasavi Jayanti (appearance day); (2) Vasavi Mata Atmarpana (day Vasavi entered the sacred fire); and (3) Navaratri. Vasavi Devi is the patron goddess of the Vaisya community.  

The celebration of her appearance is conducted with Ganesa puja, Durga homa, abhishekam for the mula vigraha of Vasavi, archana with her 108 names, and Mahamangala arati.

Kusuma Sresti, the king of the Vysyas was ruling the kingdom making Penugonda (called the Kasi of Arya Vysyas) (Jestasailam) as capital city for all the 18 mahapattana's during 10th11th century AD. Kusumamba was his wife. They were ideal couple and led a peaceful domestic life. They were worshipping Lord Siva (Nagareswara swamy) and Lord Vishnu (Janardhana Swamy) as the part of their daily duties. His kingdom was part and parcel of Vengidesha, which was ruled by Vishnu Vardhana-7 or Vimaladitya Maharaj.

The couple were childless and became concerned about who would succeed them. They approached Kulaguru (family teacher) Bhaskaracharya. He advised them to perform Puthra Kamestiyaga which Dasharatha had observed. During the auspicious hour, Kusuma Sresti couple started the yaga. The Gods were pleased and sent prasadam (a blessed fruit from god) through Yagneswara (fire god). There was a divine utterance that they would get children after eating prasadam. With utmost devotion they ate Prasadam, and within a few days the sign of pregnancy was found with Kusumamba. She expressed unusual desires, which indicated that she would give birth to children who would fight for the welfare of all.

Childhood:

Kusumamba gave birth to twins on 10 Vaishaka (a Telugu month). The boy was called Virupaksha, and the girl Vasavamba. During childhood, Virupaksha demonstrated leadership qualities while Vasavamba was inclined towards art, architecture and music and showed a philosophical approach to life. Under the guidance of the Vysya kula guru Bhaskaracharya, Virupaksha learnt Vedas, fencing, horse riding, martial arts and archery. Vasavamba studied fine arts and mastered philosophical subjects. Virupaksha went on to marry Rathnavathi, the daughter of Aridhisresti of Aelur Town.

Attempted marriage:

Kusumasresti welcomed and entertained Vishnu Vardhna at Penugonda when the latter visited during an expedition to expand his empire and vanquish his enemies. During this visit, Vardhna noticed Vasavamba and determined to marry her. This caused Kusumasresti a dilemma: he was neither in a position to accept Vardhna's wishes nor to refuse the. The disparities of age and caste, as well as the fact that the emperor was already married, were significant objections, but, in consultation with advisers and family members, Kusumasresti decided that Vasavamba should make up her own mind. Her response to was express a desire never to marry and to focus her life on less worldly issues.

Kusumasresti told Vardhana of his daughter's decision, which caused a fury and an attempt to capture Vasavamba by force. The battalion sent to achieve this aim was thwarted by the Vysyas of Penugonda. Kusumasresti arranged for a Great Conference comprising the Chiefs of the 18 cities and the leaders of all 714 gotras, to be held in the presence of Bhaskaracharya. There were differences of opinion at this conference, with 102 gotra chiefs preferring resistance to the overtures and attacks of Vardhna but the leaders of the other 612 gotras believing that matrimonial alliance would be safer and more beneficial. Bhaskaracharya favoured the minority view, saying that retaining respect was of greater significance than protecting life, and Kusumasresti was inspired by this support. Thus, the unity of the Vysyas was broken and the 102 gotras prepared for the defence of Penugonda against further attacks by Vardhana.

Vasavi Devi's reaction:

Vasavi entered onto the scene and said: "Why should there be bloodshed among ourselves for the sake of a Girl? Why sacrifice the lives of soldiers for our selfish desire. It is better to give up the idea of war. Instead, let us rebel in a novel way. We can control war through non-violence and self-sacrifice. Only people with strong will power and moral strength can participate in this kind of self-sacrifice." Vasavi's new idea was delightful to her parents and they decided to act in accordance with Vasavi's directions.

Athmam Balidhana:

As per the directions of Vasavi, at the holy place of Brahmakunda on the banks of Godavari, the royal servants arranged 103 Agnikundas (fire pits) in a special way. The whole city was observing that day as a festival day. Then Vasavi asked the couples of the 102 Gotras: "Will you plunge into this holy fire along with me?" Everyone of them whole heartedly gave their consent. They suspected Vasavi must be an incarnation of God and requested her to show her real nature or swarupa.

She smiled and revealed her true self, which had the glittering radiance surpassing the brightness of the sun. She said: "I am the incarnation of Adiparashakthi. To safeguard the dignity of woman and to protect Dharma, to destroy Vishnu Vardhana and to reveal to the world the magnanimity of Vysya's I come here in Kaliyuga. Like Sati Devi who was insulted entered into holy fire, I too plunge into the holy fire and enter the other world. Kusumasresty during last birth was a great Saint by name Samadhi as per his aspirations he could attain salvation along with the people of 102 Gotras. That is why I asked you all to undergo Athmam Balidhana." Vasavi advised the gathering about patriotism, honesty, social service, and tolerance.

Vishnu Vardhana's death:

Devi disappeared as soon as the divine words came out of her mouth and people saw her in human form. Then all of them entered into holy fire after meditating upon their Gods. Though Vishnuvardhana felt bad omens, he marched ahead and reached the main entrance of Penugonda. Then his detectives reported all that had happened in the city. He could not bear the great shock and his heart shattered into pieces. He fell down vomiting blood and he was no more.

The self-sacrifice of Vasavi and the end of Vishnuvardhana was the talk of the town. People condemned the deeds of Vishnuvardhana and appreciated the epoch maker Vasavi and her non-violent principle.

Sri Vasavi Devi's legacy:

The son of Vishnuvardhana, Raja Raja Narendra rushed to Penugonda and repented about the incident. Later, Virupaksha consoled him and said: "Brother, let us learn and formulate the present and future on the strong base of past. Vasavi had come to rescue of the people without giving room for great bloodshed. Her non-violence gave a good result". Hence forth Vysya's shall not fight or rule states but shall engage in service and as well wishers of others including services such as trade and agriculture.

Virupaksha visited many pilgrim centers like Kasi, Gaya and others under the guidance of Vysya kula guru Baskaracharya. To commemorate the pilgrimage they installed 101 lingas for each gotra in Penugonda. Then, Narendra installed a statue of Vasavi as a token of respect. From that day onwards all Vysya's began performing poojas to her and she is considered as Vysyakula Devatha-Vasavi Kanyaka Parameswari. Vasavi's life is worth remembering because of her faith in non-violent religious values and her defense of the status of women. She became immortal because she has been mainly responsible for the propagation of the reputation of Vysya's throughout the world. Vasavi, who had rejected worldly pleasures, won the minds of Vysyas and is the champion of peace and non-violence and is remembered by the faithful.

Gotras:

There are 714 gotras before agnipravesham of vasavi matha now there are 102 gotras among rya Vaiyas. They followed 102 Rishis for conducting their rituals. Surname gotras and Rishis for identification and classification for all the rya Vaiyas are one and the same. The gotras is equivalent of the Sanskrit names of Rishis. Groups of rya Vaiyas became followers of particular Rishi for conducting their rituals and they claimed to be the followers of that particular Rishi. Thus they are identified by the Rishi name. And for still feature identification they use a pre-fix surname generally indicating the area from which they migrated or the profession to which they belong and other such identification.

Sri Rama Navami 2014

On Chaitra Sukla Navami (the ninth day of the bright half of Chaitra) 'Sree Ramanavami' is celebrated.

Rama Navami is the ninth day of the waxing phase of the moon in the month of Chaitram as per Telugu calendar. Rama Navami is celebrated on Tuesday, 8th April, 2014.

Sree Rama was born on this day and years later on the same day Rama married Sita. 'Sree Sitarama Kalyana Mahotsav' (wedding) is performed in the abode Sitarama Temple, Bhadrachalam, Khammam District, Andhra Pradesh with great tradition and Bhakti. On behalf of Andhra Pradesh Government, Chief Minister with his wife visits the Kalyana Mahotsav and offers Silk Clothes and Pearls as Talambralu (auspicious) to the God and Goddess. The whole of this celebration is telecasted live in Doordarshan. Paanakam a drink made from jaggery and pepper. Kosambari prepared from mixing soaked Moong Dal, coconut , banana is offered as Naivedyam and distributed among devotees. Reciting of Ramayana on Rama Navami is considered auspicious.

"Wherever four Hindus live, Rama and Sita will be there" so said Swami Vivekananda, one of the foremost harbingers of modern national renaissance of Bharat. The reverse also is equally true - wherever Rama and Sita live, the people there will remain and live as Hindus.

Every hill and rivulet of Bharat bears the imprint of the holy feet of Rama and Sita. Sri Rama reigns supreme to this day in the hearts of our people, cutting across all barriers of province, language, caste or sect. Even the tribes living in isolated valleys and jungles have names like Mitti-Ram and Patthar-Ram. In some other tribes, every name carries the proud suffix of Ram, such as Lutthu Ram, Jagadev Ram, etc. In many northern parts of Bharat mutual greetings take the form of Jay Ramjee Ki.

Sri Rama has become so much identified with all the good and great and virile qualities of heroic manhood that expressions such as 'Us me Ram nahi hai' (there is no Rama in him) - meaning that a person has lost all manliness and worth - have become common usage. And when a Hindu quits the world stage, he is bid God-speed in his onward journey with Ramanama satya hai or Raghupati Raghava raja Ram, patita paavana Sita Ram. In fact, the latter couplet has become the nation's bhajan par excellence.

Sri Rama's story, Ramayana, has been sung and resung in all the languages and dialects of Bharat. The tradition of writing epics centering round the saga of Rama's achievements started by Valmiki in Sanskrit and was continued by Tulsidas in Hindi, by Kamban in Tamil, by Ramanujan in Malayalam, by Krittivasa in Bengali and Madhav Kambali in Assamia and in fact, in almost every Bharatiya language. The tradition is being continued up to the present day. The Ramayana Darshanam of K.V. Puttappa, the national literary award of Bharat by the Jnana Peeth. The enchanting Geet Ramayana composed in Marathi by G.D. Madgulkar and set to tune by Sudhir Phadke is now thrilling the hearts of millions in Maharashtra.

The various tribal groups too have sung the story of Ramayana in their dialects. Sri Rama, Lakshmana and Janaki mirror the ideals for millions of tribal boys and girls. The Khamati tribe in Arunachal Pradesh, which is Buddhist, depicts Ramayana as the story narrated by Buddha to his first disciple, Ananda, and carries the universal message of Buddha. How deeply significant that every group and sect even in distant and far-flung parts of Bharatavarsha should have found a radiant reflection of its own ideals in the form of Sri Rama!

The comparison of Sri Rama's fortitude to Himalayas and the grace and grandeur of his personality to the ocean - 'Samudra iva gaambheerye, dhairye cha Himavaan iva' - portrays how inseparably his personality has been blended into the entire national entity of Bharat.

Where in lay the secret of this unique greatness in Rama's personality? He is called Maryaada-Purushottama - the great one who never deviated from the norms set by Dharma. In the eyes of the Hindu, the touchstone of human excellence is Dharma. Devotion to Dharma came first in Rama's life and considerations of his personal joys and sorrows came last. It was his supreme commitment to putra-dharma (duty of a son) that made Rama smilingly depart to the forest for fourteen years at the bidding of his father. And this he did on the very day he was to be anointed as the future emperor of Bharat. He would not budge from the path of Dharma - righteousness - even when his own preceptor, his parents, his brothers and the whole body of his subjects tried to dissuade him. He upheld the supremacy of Dharma in every one of his human relationships and hence became an ideal son, an ideal brother, an ideal husband, an ideal disciple, an ideal friend, an ideal kind and even an ideal foe.

The one and supreme concern of Sri Rama's life was the welfare of his subjects. He would forsake everything else to uphold his kingly duties - the Rajadharma. The night previous to his scheduled coronation, when Rama and Sita were alone in a happy mood in view of the next day's joyous occasion, Sita asked Rama, "What is that thing which hold dearest to your heart?" Rama fell serious for a moment and said, "Dear Sita, you know I love you most dearly, but I love the subjects of Ayodhya more and if their welfare demands, I would not hesitate to sacrifice even you!" The following couplet conveying this idea is cited often:

Sneham dayaam cha soukhyam cha yadi vaa Jaanakimapi|

Aaraadhanaaya lokasya munchate naasti me vyathaa||

And Sri Rama did live up to his words. When he felt that the call of his royal duties - Rajadharma - demanded the forsaking of Sita, he wavered not in carrying it out. The most crucial test came when Lakshmana violated the orders of Rama and admitted Durvasa to Rama's presence with a view to averting the destruction of Ayodhya by Durvasa's curse. Rama stuck to the law of the land and awarded death penalty to Lakshmana - one whom he loved dearer than his own life. It was with such a fiery faith that Rama followed the dictates of Dharma.

To such a one, how could power and pelf hold any fascination? When Bharata came to him in the forest and implored him to return to Ayodhya and become the emperor, Sri Rama firmly refused. Here was enacted a scene unparalleled in the annals of world history - each of the two brothers trying to out-argue the other to make him accept the emperorship of a great and mighty kingdom.

Sri Rama's role as one of the first and foremost national unifiers of Bharat is also unique and extraordinary. He embraced Guha, the forest King and ate in his house without the least hesitation. No sense of high or low ever touched his all-embracing love of his people. He even enjoyed a fruit tasted and offered with devotion by Shabari, a tribal lady in the far south.

The Vanaras or the forest-dwellers too felt that Rama was their own. He endeared himself to them so intimately that they became, in fact, his chief allies against Ravana. All over Bharatavarsha, the dear, little squirrel with its three brown stripes bespeaks the devotion to Sri Rama even among the animal world. Along with the Vanaras, a solitary squirrel had played his humble part in carrying sand for the construction of bridge to Lanka and Sri Rama's caressing of the little one on the back had left those indelible stripes for all future generations.

Sri Rama's intense adoration for the motherland has been immortalized by a legendary couplet which is playing on the lips of millions even to this day: Janani janmabhoomischa swargaadapi garreyasi (the mother and the motherland are to me greater than the heavens themselves).

The story of Rama is not that of a single towering personality dwarfing all others. The other characters like Sita, Lakshmana, Bharata and Hanuman too shine in their own greatness. All of them are so closely interwoven with Sri Rama's life and achievements that it is well-nigh impossible to think of any one without the other. In fact, the most popular picture of Sri Rama, i.e., of Sri Rama Pattabhisheka includes Sita, Hanuman and all his brothers. And in the bringing out of the greatness of all these partners of his life-drama, Rama's instinctive recognition of their merit and virtues played no mean part. He would always be the first to openly appreciate the unique and noble traits in others' character. Even for Kaikeyi, who was responsible for his banishment to forest, Rama had only words of kindness. And as for Ravana, the abductor of his wife, Rama's unstinted praise of his erudition and prowess at once lifts the story of Ramayana to heights unsurpassed in the annals of human history.

No wonder, the story of Sri Rama has crossed the boundaries of Bharat and inspired by many a distant people, their culture and literature. Indonesia - with Muslims forming 80% of her population - continues to adore Rama and Sita as her great cultural standard-bearers, and Ramayana as her national epic par excellence. Indonesia also prides herself in having the biggest drama stage in the world - with Ramayana as its chief attraction. And the credit goes to that country for celebrating the very first grand World Ramayana Festival some years ago.

The birthday of Sri Rama, indeed, signifies an event worth of remembrance by every one, whatever his country or race or religion, who cherishes the time honored sublime values of human culture and civilization.

Happy Ugadi Festival 2014 !!

Ugadi is observed as the New Year of SouthIndians (in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka ) marking the new blossoms and the coming of the harvest. It is the first festival of the telugu calender.

'Jaya" is the name of the new telugu year which starts from 31st March 2014.

Ugadi is the New Year's Day for the people of Andhra Pradesh and also for the Telugu people all over the world. Those who live north of the Vindhya hills observe it as "Barhaspatyamana". People living to the south of the Vindhya hills observe it as "Sauramana" or "Chandramana".

According to Chandramana, Ugadi is celebrated on the bright fortnight ('Shukla Paksha') of the first month ('Chaitra Masa') in the first season of the year i.e. Spring ('Vasanta-Ritu'). As all these important elements are present, this day has special significance marking the commencement of a New Year.

Significance:

It is believed that the creator of the Hindu pantheon Lord Brahma started creation on this day - "Chaitra Suddha Padhyami" or the Ugadi day. Also the calculations of the great Indian Mathematician Bhaskaracharya proclaim the Ugadi day as the beginning of the New Year, New month and New day. The onset of spring also marks a beginning of new life with plants acquiring new life, shoots and leaves. The vibrancy of life and verdant fields, meadows full of colourful blossoms signify growth, prosperity and well-being.

With the coming of Ugadi, the naturally perfumed Jasmine's spread a sweet fragrance, which is perhaps unmatched by any other in nature's own creation. While large garlands of Jasmine are offered to Gods in homes and temples, Jasmine flowers woven in clusters adorn the braids of women.

Predictions Of The Year:

Ugadi marks the beginning of a new Hindu lunar calendar with a change in the moon's orbit. On this day, people chant mantras and the pundits make predictions for the coming year. Traditionally, the "Panchangasravanam" or listening to the yearly calendar was done at the temples or at the Town square but with the onset of modern technology, one can get to hear the priest-scholar on television sets right in one's living room.

Preparing For The Occasion:

Preparations for the festival begin a week ahead. Houses are given a thorough wash. Shopping for new clothes and buying other items that go with the requirements of the festival are done with a lot of excitement.

Ugadi is celebrated with festive fervour in the states of Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. While it is called Ugadi in Andhara and Karnataka, in Maharashtra it is known as "Gudipadava".

On Ugadi day, people wake up before the break of dawn and take a head bath after, which they decorate, the entrance of their houses with fresh mango leaves. The green mango leaves tied to the doorway signify a good crop and general well being. It is noteworthy that one uses mango leaves and coconuts (as in a 'Kalasam', to initiate any puja) only on auspicious occasions to propitiate gods.

People also splash fresh cow dung water on the ground in front of their house and draw colourful floral designs. This is a common sight in every household. People perform the ritualistic worship to God invoking his blessings before they start off with the New Year. They pray for their health, wealth and prosperity and success in business too. Ugadi is also the most auspicious time to start new ventures.

Every year on 'chaitrasuddha padyami' we celebrate the beginning of our new year. Things that should be done on this day:

Get up early (before dawn ) and take a bath using sesame oil, and bathing powder (the traditional way), get ready with new cloths. Next recite to the Lord Surya our New year resolutions and while offering flowers, holy water, light, insence. After that we savour the 'Vepaputa pachadi' (neemflower concoction). "Nimbhakusumabhakshanam" means...

"Sataayu rvajradaehaayuh sarva sampatkaraaya cha

sarvaarishTa vinaaSaaya, nimBha kusuma bhakshaNam"

this neem flower concoction has tamarind syrup, the flower of mangoes, the flowers of Asoka tree as a few of its many ingredients.

"tvaamashThaSoaka naraabheeshTa! madhumaasa samudbhava!

nibaavi Soakasamtaptaam maamaSoakam sadaa kuru"

which means...

In my life suffering with sorrow i am a bit of the 'asoka'! I serve thee. In the bloom of full spring you blossom oh 'asoka'! You make me free of sorrow!

The tree of asoka has such divine stength.

Special Delicacies:

It is a season for raw mangoes spreading its aroma in the air and the fully blossomed Neem tree that makes the air healthy. Also, jaggery made with fresh crop of sugarcane adds a renewed flavour to the typical dishes associated with Ugadi.

"Ugadi Pachchadi" is one such dish that has become synonymous with Ugadi. It is made of new jaggery, raw mango pieces, Neem flowers and new tamarind. The inner significance of this preparation is to indicate that life is a mixture of good and bad, joy and sorrow and all of them have to be treated alike.

All experiences have to be treated with equanimity. Every one should make a resolve that he will face calmly whatever happens in this year, accepting it with good grace and welcoming everything. Consider everything as for one's own good. Men should rise above sorrow and happiness, success and failure. This is the primary message of the Ugadi festival.

In Andhra Pradesh, eatables such as "Pulihora", "Bobbatlu" and preparations made with raw mango go well with the occasion. In Karnataka too, similar preparations are made but called "Puliogure" and "Holige". The Maharashtrians make "Puran Poli" or sweet 'Rotis'.

Kavi Sammelanam:

Kavi Sammelanam or poetry recitation is a typical Telugu Ugadi feature. Ugadi is also a time when people look forward to a literary feast in the form of Kavi Sammelanam. Many poets come up with new poems written on subjects ranging from Ugadi to politics to modern trends and lifestyles.

When we hear the 'Panchamga sravanam' (foretelling of the year to come) because of 'tidi' we learn about wealth, 'vaaramu' (week) tells us about life, 'nakshatramu' (star) gives us deliverence from sins, 'yogamu' helps us in eradicating disease, 'karanam' tells us about good omens. Hearing the 'Pancamga sravanam' would give us blessings equal to that of offering land, gold, cattle, grain, virgin(like marriage). Hearing the fortunes of great ones would also give us health, wealth and life has many best returns.

Ugadi Kavi Sammelanam is also a launch pad for new and budding poets. It is generally carried live on All India Radio, Hyderabad and the Doordarshan - Hyderabad, following "Panchangasravanam" (New year calendar) narrating the way the New Year would shape up in the lives of people and the state in general. 'Kavis' or poets of many hues - political, comic, satirical reformist, literary and melancholic make an appearance on the Ugadi stage.

Ugadi is thus a festival of many shades. It ushers in the New Year, brings a rich bounce of flora and fills the hearts of people with joy and contentment.

Happy Maha ShivaRatri Wishes!!

Hindus celebrate for an auspicious festival devoted to Bhagwan Shivaji and is referred as Maha-Shivaratri (Sivaratri). The name MahaShivaratri when translated to english is known as  ’Night of Shiva’. Hindus celebrate and perform most of the religious ceremonies during the nighttime.  MahaShivaratri is a Hinduism festival celebrated yearly  during the Krishna Paksha (waning moon) of the month of Maagha or Phalguna according to the Hindu calendar.

Bhagwan Shivaji, also referred as Lord Shiva was married to Parvati on the day we now call Shivaratri. This is the night when Shiva is said to have performed the Tandava or the dance of primordial creation, preservation and destruction. Lord Shiva’s dance and poses of Tandava have influenced positions in Yoga and the classical Indian dance Bharatanatyam.

Hindus and Shivaji devotees repeat the spiritual and holy chant ’OM NAMAH SHIVAYA’. Sages and religious tradition says those who utters the various Names of Shiva during Maha Shivaratri, with perfect devotion and concentration are freed from their sins and reaches the abode of Lord Shiva and lives stress-free & happy. Many devotees and hindu pilgrims travel to historic and auspicious Shiva temples, which reside mostly in India and south asia.

Maha Shivaratri is not celebrated it's  a time of spiritual healing everywhere. 

May the Choicest Blessings of Lord Shiva shower on us always !!

Wishing you all a very Happy Maha Shiva Ratri!!

Happy Ratha Saptami Wishes!!

Divya's Cooking Journey Wishing You All a Very Happy Ratha Saptami!!

Happy Vasant Panchami!!

Vasant Panchami, the Festival of Kites, falls on Panchami of the Sukal Paksh ( Waxing moon) towards the close of winter in the month of January-February. The weather circle seems to be changing otherwise Vasant used to bring a message of softness in the weather in place of the hard cold season. Vasant is the time when mustard fields are yellow with it the spring is ushered in. So Punjabis welcome the change and celebrate the day by wearing yellow clothes, holding feasts and by organizing kite flying. 

Birthday of Goddess Saraswati:

It is believed that on this day goddess Saraswati was born. Hindus celebrate Vasant Panchami with great fervor in temples, homes and even schools and colleges. Saraswati’s favorite color white assumes special significance on this day. Statues of the goddess are dressed in white clothes and are worshiped by devotees adorning white garments. Saraswati is offered sweets which are given away as ‘prasad’ to all people attending the ritual worship. There is also a custom of ancestor worship, known as ‘Pitri-Tarpan’ in many parts of India during Vasant Panchami.

The Foundation of Education:

The most significant aspect of Vasant Panchami is that it is also the most auspicious day to begin laying one’s foundations of education – of how to read and write. Pre-school children are given their first lesson in reading and writing on this day. All Hindu educational institutions conduct special prayer for Saraswati on this day. It is also a great day to inaugurate training institutes and new schools – a trend made famous by the renowned Indian educationist Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya (1861-1946), who founded the Banaras Hindu University on Vasant Panchami day in 1916.

A Springtime Celebration:

During Vasant Panchami, the advent of spring is felt in the air as the season undergoes change. New leaves and blossoms appear in the trees with the promise of new life and hope. Vasant Panchami also announces the arrival of another big springtime event in the Hindu calendar - Holi, the festival of colors.

Saraswati Mantra: Sanskrit Prayer:

Here is the text of the popular 'pranam mantra' or Sanskrit prayer, Saraswati devotees utter with utmost devotion on this day:

Om Saraswati Mahabhagey, Vidye Kamala Lochaney |

Viswarupey Vishalakshmi, Vidyam Dehi Namohastutey ||

Jaya Jaya Devi, Charachara Sharey, Kuchayuga Shobhita, Mukta Haarey |

Vina Ranjita, Pustaka Hastey, Bhagavati Bharati Devi Namohastutey ||

Saraswati Vandana: Sanskrit Hymn:

The following hymn is also recited on Vasant Panchami:

Yaa Kundendu tushaara haaradhavalaa, Yaa shubhravastraavritha| 

Yaa veenavara dandamanditakara, Yaa shwetha padmaasana|| 

Yaa brahmaachyutha shankara prabhritibhir Devaisadaa Vanditha|

Saa Maam Paatu Saraswatee Bhagavatee Nihshesha jaadyaapahaa||

English Translation:

"May Goddess Saraswati, 

who is fair like the jasmine-colored moon, 

and whose pure white garland is like frosty dew drops; 

who is adorned in radiant white attire, 

on whose beautiful arm rests the veena, 

and whose throne is a white lotus; 

who is surrounded and respected by the Gods, protect me. 

May you fully remove my lethargy, sluggishness, and ignorance."

Spiritual Significance:

  Hindus all over the world celebrate this festival with great enthusiasm, as it is believed to be the birthday of Goddess Saraswati, the God principle of motion (gati), Who is also associated with the creation of the Universe. She is the Energy (Shakti) related to the male deity, Lord Brahma.

Rituals and Celebrations:

The most significant aspect of this day is that Hindu children are taught reading and writing their first words on this day - as it is considered an auspicious day to begin a child's education. Educational institutions organize special prayers for Saraswati on this day. The great Indian guru Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya laid the foundations of the world-class academic institution, Kashi Hindu Vishwavidyalaya on Vasant Panchami. 

The lady of the house dressed in yellow with zari and gota on the dress, looking like Lakshmi, the wife of Vishnu (a housewife is always alluded to as Lakshmi and no other goddess) with the chonp, bindi on the forehead and yellow and red bangles on the arms, sets the trend for everyone to become festive.

The puja is begun by the youngest girl present by applying the teeka on everyone's forehead and then, by turns, everyone sprinkling water, aipun and roli by the third finger of the right hand dipped in each liquid, by turn, holding the finger each time by the thumb loosely and then letting it go with a light jerk,',so as to sprinkle the attached liquid onto the deity. This is done three times with each liquid. The rice and flowers are picked up by the fingers and thumb and showered on to the gods. Everyone puts a little colour onto the gods. The heralding of summer begins with a bit of color sprinkled even today (before Holi) on the gods. The lady of the house then takes a few ber's, some sangaris and a laddoo and a paan (the same paan along with the nariyal can be given to everyone since paan is now a very expensive item) and gives them to each member present. This activity can be done in two installments as it is difficult to hold all these items at one time. The receiver takes the offerings in both hands and touches them to the giver his or her forehead and returns these items to the giver, but from the second installment, he or she must take one or two items at least and eat them in the puja room.