Vijayadashmi is celebrated as the culmination of our nine-day self-declared internal war, resulting in victory (Vijay) on the tenth day (Dashmi). It is celebrated by burning an effigy of the demon-king Ravana. Why do we burn Ravana? Well, as it’s popularly known, it signifies the victory of good over evil.
The victory of good over evil has been at the core of several mythologies and religious practices. Though these values can be traced back to centuries of human history, have we ever stopped to wonder why positivity hasn’t yet prevailed? While we seek the ultimate transformation outside in the world,
In this article, we will discover the symbolism of the form and story of Goddess Durga. The word Durga comes from Durgam, which means “difficult”. Mahishasur (Mahisha means buffalo, asur means demon) had the boon that no male could kill him. Hence, Mahishasur was undefeated by the Gods, so they
Happy Thoughts! Every year we celebrate Navratri, we prepare and perform rituals, but are we ready to do something different this year? Doing something different does not mean changing rituals. We may continue the same rituals, but are we prepared to integrate an understanding into it? Do we want the
The ten-day long celebration of Ganeshotsav is now coming to an end. Everything that begins has to end. But when celebrations come to an end, we need to ask ourselves, “Have the celebrations raised our level of understanding? Have the celebrations brought about awakening in our life?” The Ganeshotsav culminates
Indians are all geared up to celebrate Ganeshotsav. Artists are giving their final touches to idols of Lord Ganesha ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi. Pandals are being setup all over to celebrate this grand festival and children are excited to enjoy the sweet modak (the Indian delicacy offered to Lord Ganesha)
Wishing each one of you reading this article a very Happy Independence Day! While India celebrates its 75th Independence Day today, commemorating the day when India attained freedom from colonial rule, it is also time for us to reflect on our inner and true independence. Let us set aside some
Tulsidas, the ardent devotee of Lord Rama, was a poet-saint who lived during the surge of devotion that swept across the Indian subcontinent in the medieval period. He composed many soul-stirring devotional verses in the common language of the people. It was as though he was born to spread Lord
As we focus on articles on the role of the Guru in the spiritual journey of a seeker, let’s also discuss the importance of the words and advice given by the Guru. This article sheds light on the importance of the commandments and orders that come directly from the Guru.
Thinking!! Doesn’t that happen automatically… what’s so artful about it? You may start thinking. But before you go off on that tangent let’s think on the following points: Do you remember when you first began thinking? What is the content of your thoughts? Are you overpowered by your thoughts? What
On the sacred occasion of Saint Kabir’s birth anniversary, let us consider the essence of his teachings and reflect on how we are leading life today. Saint Kabir was born in the family of a garment weaver. He was not formally educated, but his quest for the Absolute Truth beyond
‘Give me blood and I will give you freedom’ Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose called out to his countrymen. The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but rising every time you fall.” were Nelson Mandela’s inspiring words. History is replete with examples that showcase the magical power of
