The tilak or pottu invokes a feeling of sanctity in the wearer and others. It is recognized as a religious mark. Its form and colour vary according to one’s caste, religious sect or the form... Read more
Indians prostrate before their parents, elders, teachers and noble souls by touching their feet. The elder in turn blesses us by placing his or her hand on or over our heads. Prostration is... Read more
Indians greet each other with namaste. The two palms are placed together in front of the chest and the head bows whilst saying the word namaste. This greeting is for all – people younger tha... Read more
Most Indian homes have a prayer room or altar. A lamp is lit and the Lord worshipped each day. Other spiritual practices like japa – repetition of the Lord’s name, meditation, paaraayana – r... Read more
In almost every Indian home a lamp is lit daily before the altar of the Lord. In some houses it is lit at dawn, in some, twice a day – at dawn and dusk – and in a few it is maintained contin... Read more
Hinduism is not a religion but a way of life. Unlike other religions, Hindu dharma has many specialties. This is not known as a religion, it is known as the dharma; Sanaathana Dharma. Sanaat... Read more
By Paramahamsa Swami Sivananda We celebrate the festivals and enjoy the holidays but not many know the significance of the festival and fewer still know how to celebrate it and the rituals... Read more
The fifth day of Diwali, ie two days after Diwali on Kartika Dwiteeya, the second day after the new moon, is celebrated as Bhaiya Dooj, also know as Bhai Dooj. Legend has it that Lord Yama,... Read more
The fourth day of Diwali, ie the day after Diwali, falls on Padyami, the first day of the Kartika Masa, and is called Vishvakarma Day/ Gudi Padwa/Govardhan Puja. Vishwakarma Pooja: The day i... Read more
