Ancient Wisdom, Modern Understanding: The act of Validation
Validation is the act of making someone realise that he/she is important and deserves respect. Or in some cases, it is the process of accepting the authority of someone. Is the validation really necessary? Does everyone not understand his / her own worth? Is validation a component of Self-worth ? or is it just another […]
Decoding Vahana: Is it Truly Just a ‘Mount’ or Something More?
Introduction In our epics and Puranas, we read about different deities. The deities appear on earth for their devotees, they fight wars and they bless the devotees. And when they perform all these duties, their loyal associate is the Vahana or mount. The Vahana is also an integral part of the iconography of the deity. […]
From Myth to Canvas: Mayura’s Vibrant Presence in Hindu Art
Mayura and a little bit about it Mayura or peacock is our national bird. Yes, we all have studied that in school. The importance of peacock goes way beyond just being the national bird. Peacock has always been an important element of all types of arts, including dance, literature, sculptures, jewellery etc. The bird has […]
Bridging the Gap of Artha and Dharma: Insights from Mythology on Work-Life Balance
Recently, Mr N. R. Narayanmurthy gave a statement about how Indians should work 70 hours a week. The statement got a lot of heads to tilt, a lot of brains to think and a lot of mouths to speak. Some were criticising him saying his expectations are not in the best spirit for the work […]
Beyond the Legends: The story and significance of Narakasura’s killing by Krishna
The festival of Narak Chatudashi is part of Diwali and is celebrated in Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Telangana and parts of Andhra Pradesh on the day before Lakshmi Poojan. Sometimes the two festivals coincide, depending on the lunar cycle. The festival gives a very important message. Narkasur; the son of Vishnu as Varaha and Lakshmi as […]
Dhanteras Special: Dhanvantari’s Story and Iconic Imagery
Today is Dhanteras, the day Lakshmi and Dhanvantari emerged from SamudraManthana. In most hospitals and clinics in India, we find a statue of a deity holding Shankha, Chakra and Kalash. Dhanvantari, the physician of Gods, is worshipped as God of physicians. Dhanvantari is mentioned in the Puranas as the god of Ayurveda. Most Puranas mention […]
The Essence of Balipeetham: Unveiling Its True Significance
A Balipeetham has to be most misrepresented aspect of Indian temples. Balipeetham is a small square or octagonal structure built on a square platform. The structure maybe plain in design or maybe artistically crafted. The Balipeetham is placed right next to the Dhwajastambha. The Balipeetham is often said to be the place for animal sacrifice. […]
Unveiling Mohini: The Divine Enchantress of Hindu Mythology
Today, while I was giving a lecture at MIT World Peace University, Pune ; there was mention of Mohini a couple of times. So I thought, why not have a post about this..!! Mohini is the goddess of enchantment and only female Avatar of Vishnu. She is portrayed as an enchantress, who maddens lovers and […]
Nataraja – The lord of dance and acting : Meaning, Iconography, History and symbolism
In recently concluded G20 summit at Bharat Mandapam in Delhi, the tall statue of Nataraja caught a lot of eyes. It was an magnificent effort at displaying our incredible culture to the world. The 28 ft high bronze sculpture of the divine cosmic dancer has put forward a very strong statement. And on this note, […]
Sanatan Dharma Eradication : Propaganda, Political opportunity or need of time ?
Recently, the word Sanatana has become a very important keyword in Indian politics. With some loose statements from one politician in Tamilnadu, and arguments in support and in oppose by all other political parties, have made it all centre of a large controversy. And going through all the news, I had a few thoughts on […]