Baisakhi

Baisakhi

14th April 2015

Baisakhi is one of the major festivals of Sikhs and is celebrated with lot of enthusiasm and gaiety in the state of Punjab and all throughout the world where there is a significant Sikh population. For the large farming community of Punjab, Baisakhi Festival marks the time for harvest of rabi crops and they celebrate the day by performing joyful bhangra and gidda dance. For the Sikh community, Baisakhi Festival has tremendous religious significance as it was on a Baisakhi Day in 1699, that Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru laid the foundation of Panth Khalsa-the Order of the Pure Ones.

Baisakhi Festival falls on the first day of Vaisakh month (April-May) according to Sikh Calendar. For this reason, Baisakhi is also popularly known as Vaisakhi. According to English calendar, the date of Baisakhi corresponds to April 13 every year and April 14 once in every 36 years. This difference in Baisakhi dates is due to the fact that day of Baisakhi is reckoned according to solar calendar and not the lunar calendar




Baisakhi story

The story of Baisakhi Festival began with the martyrdom of Guru Teg Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru who was publicly beheaded by the Aurungzeb, the Mughal ruler. Aurungzeb wanted to spread Islam in India and Guru Tegh Bahadur stood up for the rights of Hindus and Sikhs and the Mughals therefore saw him as a threat.After the death of Guru Teg Bahadur, his son, Guru Gobind Singh became the next Guru of the Sikhs. Guru Gobind Singh wished to instill courage and strength to sacrifice among his fellow men. To fulfil his dream, Guru Gobind Singh called on the historic Baisakhi Day congregation of Sikhs at Keshgarh Sahib near Anandpur on March 30, 1699.

When thousands of people assembled for Guru’s blessing, Guru Gobind Singh came out of the tent carrying an unsheathed sword. He gave a powerful speech to infuse courage amongst fellowmen. At the end of the speech he said that every great deed was preceded by equally great sacrifice and demanded that anyone prepared to give his life come forward. On the Guru’s third call, a young man offered himself. The Guru took the man inside a tent and reappeared alone with a bloodied sword. Guru Gobind Singh asked for another volunteer. This was repeated another four times until a total of five Sikhs had gone into the tent with the Guru. Everyone present was worried and though that Guru Gobind Singh has killed five Sikhs. At this point Guru presented all the five men before the people. Every one present was surprised to see all five men alive and wearing turbans and saffron-coloured garments.These five men were called Panj Piara or 'Beloved Five' by the Guru. The Guru blessed them with a Pahul ceremony. In an iron vessel, the Guru stirred with a sword called Khanda Sahib, the batasha that his wife, Mata Sundari Ji had put into water. The congregation recited verses from scriptures as the Guru performed the sacred ceremony. The water was now considered the sacred nectar of immortality called amrit. It was first given to the five volunteers, then drunk by the guru and later distributed amongst the crowd. With this ceremony, all those present, irrespective of caste or creed, became members of the Khalsa Pantha (the Order of the Pure Ones). 

The Guru regarded the Panch Piaras as the first members of the Khalsa and the embodiment of the Guru himself. With the constitution of the Panj Pyare the high and low castes were amalgamated into one as among the original Panj Pyare, there was one Khatri, shopkeeper; one Jat, farmer; one Chhimba, calico printer; one Ghumar, water-carrier; and one Nai, a barber. The Guru gave the surname of Singh (Lion) to every Sikh and also took the name for himself. From Guru Gobind Rai he became Guru Gobind Singh. This was seen as a great step in national integration because society at that time was divided on the basis of religion, caste and social status. Guru Gobind Singh also bestowed on Khalsa, the unique Sikh identity. He directed Sikhs to wear five K's: Kesh or long hair, Kangha or comb, Kripan or dagger, Kachha or shorts and a Kara or bracelet. Guru Gobind Singh also discontinued the tradition of Gurus and asked all Sikhs to accept the Grantha Sahib as their eternal guide.

Rituals

People following Sikh faith wake up early in the morning on a Baisakhi day and pay visit to gurdwaras to attend special prayer meetings. While most Sikhs strive to visit the revered Golden Temple or Anandpur Sahib, where the Khalsa was pronounced, those who are unable to do so visit their neighbourhood gurdwara.

At a gurdwara, the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy book of Sikhs is ceremonially taken out and is given a symbolical bath with milk and water. After these simple rituals, Guru Granth Sahib is placed on its throne with care. The book is then read out to the followers gathered in the gurdwara.

Just as on a Baisakhi Day ceremony held in 1699 under the guidance of Guru Gobind Singh where Panch Pyaras or the Five beloved ones chanted verses, five priests going by that name chant verses recited by the five originals. Similarly, just as Guru Gobind Singh Ji had used amrita prepared in an iron vessel to bless the panch pyare, even to this date amrit or holy nectar is prepared in an iron vessel and is distributed amongst all gathered after the chanting of sacred verses. As a tradition, devotees sip amrita five times and take a vow to work for the brotherhood, the Khalsa Panth. Religious songs (kirtans) are sung after the amrit is drunk for the spiritual upliftment of those gathered.

At noon, after the Baisakhi ardas, the Karah Prasad or sweetened semolina is offered to the guru for his blessings. It is then distributed to the congregation. The ceremony culminates with a special guru-ka-langar or the community lunch. People sit in rows with their heads covered as volunteers serve them with vegetarian meal.

Later, during the Baisakhi day, sacred Guru Granth Sahib is taken out in a procession. At the head of the procession are the Panj Piaras, symbolizing the journey made by the five fearless devotees from their homes to Anandpur, to be baptised by Guru Gobind Singh. Baisakhi processions are attended by men, women and children alike with faith and enthusiasm. The procession moves through major localities of the city and is welcomed by citizens and members of social and cultural societies. Colourful bhangra and gidda dance apart from mock duels are performed during Baisakhi processions. Another fascinating part of Baisakhi celebrations is the accompaniment of drummers, bands playing religious times, devotees singing religious songs and men swinging swords. 

Baisakhi Celebrations

People of Punjab celebrate the festival of Baisakhi with exuberance and devotion. As the festival has tremendous importance in Sikh religion, major activities of the day are organized in Gurdwaras. People wake up early to prepare for the day. Many also take bath in the holy river to mark the auspicious occasion. After getting ready people pay a visit to their neighbourhood gurdwara and take part in the special prayer meeting organized for the day. At the end of the Baisakhi ardas, congregates receive specially prepared Kara prasad or sweetened semolina. This is followed by a guru ka langar or community lunch. Later, during the day people of Sikh faith take out a Baisakhi procession under the leadership of Panj piaras. The procession moves through the major localities of the city amidst the rendition of devotional songs by the participating men, women and children. Mock duels, bhangra and gidda performances make the procession joyous and colourful.

Since Baisakhi is also celebrated as a harvest festival, farmers in Punjab celebrate Baisakhi with energetic performance of bhangra and gidda dance. Men and women clad themselves in their traditional Bhangra dress and dance to the beat of dhol in a joyful festive atmosphere. 

अप्रैल माह के व्रत त्यौहार और जयंती

अप्रैल माह के व्रत त्यौहार और जयंती

अप्रैल सन् 2015 विक्रम संवत् 2072 चैत्र शुक्ल द्वादशी से वैशाख शुक्ल द्वादशी तक

शालिवाहन शक 1937 राष्ट्रीय चैत्र 11 से राष्ट्रीय वैशाख 10 तक

हिजरी सन् 1436 जमादि उस्सानी 11 से रज्जब 10 तक

1 अप्रैल : मदन द्वादशी। प्रदोष व्रत। हरि दमनकोत्सव। मीनाक्षी कल्याणम्

2 अप्रैल : श्री महावीर जयन्ती (जैन)। अनंग त्रयोदशी व्रत। शिव नृसिंह दमनकोत्सव (महानिशीथ काल में)। दमनक चतुर्दशी 14।

3 अप्रैल : शुक्र कृत्तिका नक्षत्र में 23.59 बजे।

4 अप्रैल : स्नान-दान-व्रतादि की चैत्री पूर्णिमा। चांडक पूजा (बंगाल)। अन्वाधान। मन्वादि। सर्वदेव दमनकोत्सव। श्री हनुमान जयंती (सूर्योदय काल में दक्षिण भारत एवं काशी के संकट मोचन मन्दिर में)। इष्टि। गुरू तेगबहादुर गुरयायी दिवस। गुरू हरकिशन जोति जोत दिवस। ग्रस्तोदय खग्रास चन्द्रग्रहण। वैशाख मासीय व्रत-यम-नियमादि प्रारम्भ।

5 अप्रैल : वैशाख कृष्ण पक्षारम्भ। तुलसी पत्र से श्री विष्णु पूजा। मास पर्यन्त पनिसरा चलाना चाहिये। (अशक्ति में धर्म घटादि दान)। मास भर चन्दन से श्री विष्णु पूजा। ग्रहण करिदिन। बुध रेवती नक्षत्र में 20.38 बजे।

6 अप्रैल : शुक्र वृष राशि में 19.46 बजे।

8 अप्रैल: संकष्टी श्री गणेश चतुर्थी व्रत। चन्द्रोदय 21.44 बजे। ब्रह्मावर्त (बिठूर) में सिद्ध गणेश मंदिर में अभिषेक। सती अनसुइया जयन्ती।

9 अप्रैल : गुरू तेगबहादुर जयन्ती। गुरू मार्गी 07.28 बजे।

11 अप्रैल: श्री शीतलासप्तमी व्रत। कालाष्टमी। गुरू अर्जुनदेव जयन्ती।

12 अप्रैल: श्री शीतलाष्टमी व्रत। पर्युषितान्न (बासी) भोजन करना विहित है। अष्टका। बुध अश्विनी नक्षत्र व मेष राशि में 08 .12 बजे।

14 अप्रैल: सूर्य अश्विनी नक्षत्र में एवं सूर्य की मेष संक्रान्ति 13.01 बजे। चन्द्रदर्शन मु.30 साम्यर्घ। संक्रान्ति का विशेष पुण्यकाल 09.01 बजे से 17.01 बजे तक। सामान्य पुण्यकाल 06.37 बजे से सूर्यास्त तक। सतुआ जल कुम्भादि दान। हरिद्वार या काशी के असी संगम पर स्नान। वैशाखी पंजाब एवं उड़ीसा। मीन (खर) मास समाप्त। डॉ भीमराव अम्बेडकर जयन्ती।

15 अप्रैल: वरुथिनी एकादशी व्रत सबका। श्री वल्लभाचार्य जयन्ती। सौर (मेष) वैशाख मासारम्भ। शुक्र रोहिणी नक्षत्र में 08.48 बजे।

16 अप्रैल : प्रदोष व्रत।

17 अप्रैल : मास शिवरात्रि व्रत। मंगल अस्त पश्चिम में 14.21 बजे। 14 तिथि क्षय।

18 अप्रैल : स्नान-दान-श्राद्धादि की अमावस्या। बुध भरणी नक्षत्र में 17.32 बजे।

19 अप्रैल : इष्टि। वैशाख मास शुक्ल पक्षारम्भ। देव दामोदर तिथि (आसाम)। गुरू अंगददेव जयन्ती।

20 अप्रैल : चन्द्रदर्शन मु. 30 साम्यर्घ। भगवान परशुराम जयन्ती (प्रदोष काल व्यापिनी तृतीया में)। छत्रपति शिवा जी जयन्ती। सूर्य सायन वृष राशि में 14.54 बजे। बुध उदय पश्चिम में 07.22 बजे।

21 अप्रैल : अक्षय तृतीया (रोहिणी नक्षत्रयुता)। त्रेतायुगादि। वर्षीतप समापन (जैन)। पितृ पितामहादि के निमित्त सक्तु चीनी फल धर्म घटादि दान। त्रिलोचन दर्शन-यात्रा। बद्री केदार यात्रा। मातंगी जयन्ती । कल्पादि । राष्ट्रीय वैशाख मासारम्भ। हिजरी रज्जब 7वां माह शुरु। अजमेर में ख्वाजा मोइनुद्दीन चिश्ती सज्जरी अलह के मजार पर उर्स का मेला शुरू।

22 अप्रैल : वैनायकी श्री गणेश चतुर्थी व्रत। ब्रह्मावर्त (बिठूर) में सिद्ध गणेश मंदिर में अभिषेक।

23 अप्रैल : श्री आद्य शंकराचार्य जयन्ती। श्री सूरदास जयन्ती। श्री रामानुजाचार्य जयन्ती (दक्षिण भारत)। बाबू कुँवर सिंह जन्म दिवस (बिहार)।

24 अप्रैल : श्री रामानुजाचार्य जयन्ती (उत्तर भारत में)। चन्दन षष्ठी (बंगाल)।

25 अप्रैल : श्री गंगा सप्तमी। गंगोत्पत्ति। गंगावतरण (मध्यान्ह में गंगा पूजन)। गंगा जन्म लग्न (वृष)। बुध कृत्तिका नक्षत्र में 14.02 बजे।

26 अप्रैल : श्री दुर्गाष्टमी व्रत। श्री बगलामुखी जयन्ती। शुक्र मृगशिरा नक्षत्र में 22.55 बजे।

27 अप्रैल : श्री सीता नवमी। वैष्णव मतानुसार श्री जानकी जयन्ती। त्रिचूर पूरम (केरल)। बुध वृष राशि में 12.07 बजे।

28 अप्रैल : सूर्य भरणी नक्षत्र में 05.33 बजे। अगस्त्यास्त 06.42 बजे।

29 अप्रैल: मोहिनी एकादशी व्रत सबका। मंगल कृत्तिका नक्षत्र में 08.10 बजे।

30 अप्रैल : परशुराम द्वादशी। रुक्मिणी द्वादशी।

अप्रैल माह राशीफ़ल - सन् 2015

अप्रैल माह राशीफ़ल - सन् 2015

मेष 
विपरीत लिंगी से नए संबंध बन सकते हैं। यह माह प्यार करने वालों के लिए अच्छा समय है, क्योंकि प्रेम में प्रगाढ़ता आएगी। यदि शादीशुदा हैं तो जीवनसाथी का भरपूर सहयोग मिलेगा। परंतु इन सबके बावजूद सुख की कमी का एहसास होगा, क्योंकि आर्थिक विषमता रह सकती है।
वृष
इस माह भाग्य के भरोसे न रहें। शत्रु परास्त होंगे व खर्च अधिक होगा इसलिए बेहतर है कि पहले से ही सावधानी बरतें। आय में भी कमी आएगी। संतान और शिक्षा दोनों ही जगहों से थोड़ी परेशानी हो सकती है। भाई-बहनों या मित्रों से बिना वजह अनबन हो सकती है, जरूरत पड़ने पर शायद आप खुद को अकेला महसूस करें।
मिथुन
इस माह आपकी सूझ-बूझ, निर्णय लेने की क्षमता और मेहनत के कारण आय में जबरदस्त वृद्धि होगी। पिता या कहीं नौकरी करते हैं तो आपके उच्च अधिकारियों के द्वारा आपको बहुत मान-सम्मान मिलेगा। चारों तरफ से आपको सहयोग प्राप्त होगा। शिक्षा और संतान की तरफ से भी प्रसन्नता मिलेगी।
कर्क
इस माह समाज में मान-सम्मान बढ़ेगा। संतान से थोड़ा कष्ट मिल सकता है या उनके कारण मानसिक परेशानी हो सकती है, फिर भी शिक्षा-प्रतियोगिता में अच्छी सफलता मिलेगी। धार्मिक यात्रा या परिवार में कोई धार्मिक कृत्य हो सकता है।
सिंह
इस माह कोर्ट-कचहरी के मामलों से जितना बच सकें बचें, यदि किसी के मुकदमे में फैसला आना हो तो प्रयास करें कि वह अप्रैल 2015 में किसी प्रकार से भी टल जाए। सिर्फ एक बात अच्छी रहेगी कि सभी परेशानियों में उलझनों के बावजूद सही वक्त पर भाग्य साथ देगा।
कन्या
इस माह अचानक धनलाभ की संभावना है। व्यापारियों के लिए नए अनुबंध प्राप्त हो सकते हैं। मनोबल बहुत बढ़ा-चढ़ा रहेगा। निर्णय लेने की क्षमता अच्छी रहेगी। लोगों से काम निकालने में सफल होंगे। शिक्षा क्षेत्र अच्छा रहेगा। किसी पारिवारिक कारण से यात्रा का योग बनेगा।
तुला
इस माह मन प्रसन्नतादायक रहेगा और सुख-शांति की अनुभूति होगी। जीवनसाथी से संबंध सुधरेंगे। नए प्रेम-प्रसंग बन सकते हैं। कुछ नए संबंध बनने की भी संभावना बन सकती है। जमीन-जायदाद के मामलों में आशातीत सफलता मिलेगी। नवीन वाहन का योग भी बन रहा है, भौतिक सुखों की वृद्धि रहेगी।
वृश्चिक
इस माह धन का लाभ होगा और व्यय भी होगा अतः आप बुद्धि बल द्वारा समस्याओं को नियंत्रित करने में बहुत हद तक सफल होंगे। कुछ निर्णय सही होंगे जिससे आपको आने वाले समय में बहुत लाभ होगा। भाग्य पक्ष कमजोर है, भाग्य भरोसे कोई काम न करें। किसी भी कार्य में सफलता थोड़े संघर्ष के बाद मिलेगी।
धनु
इस मास भाग्य पक्ष बहुत कमजोर है अतः जोखिम न उठाएं। आय सामान्य रहेगी, परंतु आवेश में आकर कोई बड़ा आर्थिक फैसला न लें अन्यथा हानि होगी। पारिवारिक सुख में कमी रहेगी। जीवनसाथी से विवाद उत्पन्न हो सकता है। मां के स्वास्थ्य की चिंता हो सकती है। बाहरी विवादों से सतर्क रहें और प्रयास करें कि मामला कोर्ट-कचहरी में न जाए।
मकर
माह के प्रारंभ में मन थोड़ा अशांत रहेगा। लोगों से दूर एकांत में रहने की प्रवृत्ति बनेगी। जो कुछ सोच रहे हैं, वह अभी संभव नहीं हो पाएगा अतः थोड़ा धैर्य से काम लें और सही समय का इंतजार करें। पारिवारिक सुख में खूब वृद्धि होगी। जीवनसाथी का खूब सहयोग मिलेगा। आप वैवाहिक बंधन में बंध सकते हैं।
कुंभ
इस माह पराक्रम बढ़ा रहेगा। भाई-बहनों का सहयोग मिलेगा। भाग्यवश किसी बड़ी समस्या में फंसते-फंसते बचेंगे, क्योंकि इस समय सारी विषमताओं के बावजूद भाग्य मजबूत है। साहस बढ़ा- चढ़ा रहेगा। बाहरी संबंधों से लाभ मिल सकता है। उच्च अधिकारियों या समाज के उच्च वर्ग के लोगों से संपर्क बढ़ेगा। खान-पान में सावधानी बरतें। -पान में सावधानी बरतें।
मीन
इस माह धन का आगमन सामान्य रहेगा। भौतिक सुख-सुविधाओं में वृद्धि रहेगी। मन बहुत चंचल रहेगा। निर्णय लेने में जल्दबाजी न करें। भाग्य पक्ष थोड़ा कमजोर है, आर्थिक जोखिम न उठाएं और किसी नए कार्य में हाथ डालने से बचें। उच्च अधिकारियों या पिता के क्रोध का सामना करना पड़ सकता है।

Chaitra Navratri

                                 Chaitra Navratri

21st March to 28 th March 2015
Chaitra Navratri, also popular as Chait Navratras, is the nine-day  festival observed  in the month of Chaitra. This year Navratri dates, during Chaitra month are – from March 31 to April 8. Chaitra Navratras starts on the first day in Chaitra month and ends on Ram Navami, the ninth day of the month. As per the legends mentioned in the Puranas and other Hindu scriptures, Chaitra Navratri is the actual Navratri during which Goddess Durga was worshipped. But during the time of Ramayan war, Lord Ram worshipped Durga at the time of Ashwin month. Since then, Ashwin Navratri has become the main festive season to worship goddess Durga.

Importance Of Chaitra Navratri 

Chaitra Navratri is one of the most important festival of Hindus.  Devotees worship Maa Shakti, Goddess of cosmic power, during this time and wish to be bestowed by divine benediction from Goddess. Fasting and praying mark the Navratri celebrations. Goddess Shakti manifests herself in three different dimensions as Goddess Laxmi, Saraswati and Durga. Navratri is divided into sets of three days to adore three different aspects of the supreme goddess or goddesses.

On the first three days Durga or Goddess of Energy is worshipped.The next three days are devoted to Lakshmi or Goddess of Wealth and the last three days for Saraswati or Goddess of Knowledge.  On the eighth and ninth day, Yagna (sacrifice offered to the fire) is performed to honor Durga Mata and bid her farewell. On these days Kanya Puja is performed. Nine young girls (those who have not reached at the puberty stage) representing the nine forms of Goddess Durga are worshiped. In some regions a young boy also accompanies them who symbolizes Bhairav, who is considered as protector against all evils. Those who worship Goddess without any expectation or desire being fulfilled receive her blessings as ultimate freedom from all bondages.

Navratri and Tantra –

The period of Navratri is considered to be very significant and fruitful from view point of Tantric practices. It is said that one achieves greater Tantric powers during these period of Navratras. The cosmic motherly power blesses the worshipers who fathom mysterious ways of Tantra and practice it correctly. Those who worship Goddess in or around Shakti Peetha (Special Shakti Temples) harvest great rewards even faster. 

Navratri, besides being a period of introspection and purification, is also considered an auspicious time for starting new ventures.


First Day - The first day is dedicated to the Goddess Durga is called Shailputri, the daughter of the Himalayas. She is a form of Shakti, the companion of Lord Shiva.

Second Day - The second day is dedicated to the Goddess Durga is known as 'Brahmacharini'. The name is derivative of the word 'Brahma', which  means 'Tapa' or penace. She is also a form of Mata Shakti.

Third Day - The third day is dedicated to the goddess Chandraghanta, the symbolic representation of beauty and bravery.

Fourth Day - The fourth day is dedicated to the goddess Kushmandas, the creator of the entire Universe.

Fifth Day - The fifth day is dedicated to the Goddess Skand Mata, the mother of the chief warrior of the Gods army the Skanda.

Sixth Day - The sixth day is dedicated to the goddess Katyayani with three eyes and four hands.

Seventh Day - The seventh day is dedicated to the Goddess 'Kalratri', meant to make the devotees fearless.

Eighth Day - The eight day is dedicated to the Mata Rani or 'Maha Gauri', represents calmness and exhibits wisdom.

Ninth Day - The ninth day is dedicated to Durga also referred as Siddhidatri. It is believed that she has all the eight siddhis and is worshipped  by all the Rishis and Yogis.

Ramnavami

                                    Ramnavami
15th April 2016

Ramanavami is the celebration of the birth of Lord Ram. It is celebrated on the ninth day of the first fortnight of Chaitra. The story of  Ram (Ramayan) was first written by sage Valmiki in about the 4th century B.C. Rama is supposed to have lived during the 8th or 7th century B.C. The worship starts in the morning with the chanting of  Vedic mantras dedicated to Vishnu, offering flowers and fruit to the god. People keep a fast throughout the day, breaking it only at midnight with fruits.

During the reign of king Dasarath, Ayodhya reached a period of great prosperity. Dasarath faced a big problem: he had no children. Therefore he decided to perform a sacrifice known as “ashvamedh yagya”, or horse-sacrifice. A very holy man, Rishi Rishyashring, was chosen to conduct the sacrifice with utmost accuracy. The performance of this sacrifice was a great event in Ayodhya. At the end Rishyashring recited a mantra and made an offering to the fire. Then the gods, gandharvas, siddhas, and rishis present arid began to pray to Brahma.

At that time Ravan, king of Lanka, was terrorizing the people, and all were longing for liberation from his menace. Ravan had acquired great powers because he had obtained from god Brahma the boon that he would never die at the hands of gods, or gandharvas, or yakshas (demigods) or demons. As he was not afraid of men he did not care to include men in the list of his potential slayers. So Brahma declared that Ravan would die at the hands of a man. Then the gods went to Vishnu with the request, “Dasarath is a glorious king. Please, take birth in the wombs of his three queens in four different degrees of your divinity.”

When Dasarath’s sacrifice came to an end a shining figure appeared over the sacrificial kund, and offered the king a divine beverage called “payasam” to be given to his queens Kausalya, Kaikayi, and Sumitra. In due time Kausalya gave birth to Ram, Kaikayi to Bharat and Sumitra to Laxman and Shatrugna. Ram was born at noon of the bright ninth day of Chaitra. He was believed to be the embodiment of half degree of Vishnu’s divinity.

Legend

Ram is one of the ten avatars of Lord Vishnu, and one of the two most popular, along with Krishna. Consequently, Ram Navami is widely celebrated, though not on the scale of festivals like Diwali or Dussehra.

According to legend, Ram was born at noon. Ram is the epitome of perfection, the uttam purush (Purushottam), fulfilling all his duties towards both family and subjects. Ram was the first of the four sons of King Dasharath of Ayodhya. When it was time for Ram to be made crown prince, his stepmother, Kaikeyi, got Dasharath to send him to the forest for 14 years in exile. His wife Sita and his brother Lakshman also accompanied him. In the forest, Ravan, the demon king of Lanka, kidnapped Sita. Ram along with Hanuman and the monkey army, built a bridge to Lanka, killed Ravana, and rescued Sita from the clutches of Ravan.

It is believed that listening to the story of Ram cleanses the soul. Meditating on the noble Ram and chanting his name is believed to ease the pains of life and lead one to liberation. It is also common practice to chant thenameof Ram while rocking babies to sleep.

Celebration

Though Ram Navami is a major festival for Vaishnavites, it is widely celebrated by worshippers of Shiva too.

It is considered auspicious to undertake a fast on the day in the name of Ram. Some devotees fast for nine days before Ramnavmi. The objective of the fast is not to ask for special favours of the deity but to seek perfection as a human being. Devotees perform elaborate pujas and the temples in the name of Ram have special devotional programmes and bhajan sessions throughout the day.  Since Ram is also one of the most sung-about deities in Indian classical music and literature, week-long musical programmes are organized in certain parts of the country. Several sacred places associated with Ram, like Ayodhya, Ujjain and Rameshwaram, draw tens of thousands of devotees. In Rameshwaram, thousands take a ritual bath in the sea before worshipping at the Ramanathaswamy temple. During Ramnavmi, Fairs are organized in certain parts of north India, culminating in spectacular fireworks.

SHLOKAS

Lord Ram is the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu, as per the Hindu Mythology. Ram symbolizes morality, virtue and idealism. Ram Slokas form part of prayers offered to the lord. Slokas on Lord Ram are as follows:

"Yanmaya Vashvarti Vishwamkhilambrahamadidevasura,
Yat Sat Vadmrishave Bhati Sakalam Rajoo Yadhaahaibharama,
Yatpadah Palvmaive Bhati Hi Bhavambhodhaisitatti Shravtam,
Vandeaham Tamsheshkaranparam Ramakhayamesham Harim"

Meaning: Lord Hari is also called as Ram and he is beyond all cause. This whole world is a part of his Maya. Lord Ram is the only one, with whose essence everything shines as real (though in reality it is false) where snake is misapprehended as a rope and whose feet are a boat to those who aspire to cross the ocean of Samsara, the relative existence. I surrender myself to such great Lord.

"Moolam Dharmtarovivekjaldhae Poornedumannandam,
Vaiaragayambuj Bhaskaram Tawaghharam Dhavanta Paham Tapham,
Mohambhodharpunjhpatanvidhoo Khe Sambhavam Shankaram,
Vande Braham Kul Kalankshamanam Shree Rambhoopam Priyam"

Meaning: Lord Ram, the beloved King is the root of the tree of all Dharma. He is the full moon, giving delight to the ocean of Viveka or discrimination and the sun for the lotus of Vairagya. He is the destroyer of sin, the dispeller of the darkness of ignorance and the destroyer of pain. In the act of destroying the masses of clouds, of delusion he acts like wind. I bow to the Lord, who is propitious and who brought death to the disgrace to the Brahmin family of Ravan.

"Prasantam Ya Na Gatabhishaket Satatha Na Mamloo Banvasdukhta,
Mukhambujshree Raghunandan Sai Mai Sada Aastu Sa Mujulmangalprada"

Meaning: Lord Ram has a lotus like beautiful face. His beauty neither gets enhanced at the coronation nor fades at the hardships of an exile in the forest. May Lord bless me with all auspicious.

"Neelambhuj Shyamalkomlang Sita Samaropitvambhagam,
Pano Mahasaikacharoochapam Namame Ramam Raghuvanshnatham"

Meaning: Lord Ram is the chief amongst the Raghus. His handsome body is of dark blue color like the blue lotus. He has Sita seated on his left. He is the one, who wields a beautiful bow and arrows in his hands. I bow to such great Lord.

Hanuman Jayanti

Hanuman Jayanti

चैत्र पूर्णिमा

Hanuman Jayanthi is an important festival of Hindus. It is celebrated to celebrate the birth of Lord Hanuman. It is celebrated during the month of Chaitra.Sri Hanuman is worshipped all over India either alone or together with Sri Rama. 

Every temple of Sri Rama has the idol of Sri Hanuman. Hanuman is the Avatara of Lord Shiva. He was born of the Wind-God and Anjani Devi. His other names are Pavanasuta, Marutsuta, Pavankumar, Bajrangabali and Mahavira. Hanuman is the symbol of strength and energy. Hanuman is said to be able to assume any form at will, move mountains, dart through the air, seize the clouds and rival Garuda in swiftness of flight. He is worshipped  as a deity with magical powers and the ability to conquer evil spirits.  He is the living embodiment of Ram-Nam. He was an ideal selfless worker, a true Karma Yogi who worked desirelessly and dynamically. He was a great devotee and an exceptional Brahmachari or celibate. He served Sri Rama with pure love and devotion, without expecting any fruit in return. He lived to serve Sri Rama. He was humble, brave and wise. He possessed all the divine virtues. He did what others could not do-crossing the ocean simply by uttering Ram-Nam, burning the city of Lanka and bringing the sanjeevini herb and restoring Lakshmana to life again.

On Hanuman Jayanti  people read the Hanuman Chalisa, fast and spend the whole day chanting Ram-Nam. The devotees visit temples and apply tilak of sindoor to their foreheads from  Hanumans body as this is considered to be good luck. Lord Hanuman is a Brahmachari thats why in many temples women are not allowed to touch his idol, they can worship him but their touch is prohibited.

The sacred thread (Janeu) on Hanuman’s left shoulder is a sign of Brahmatej. Since Lord Maruti is an incarnation of Lord Shiva He has destructive powers too. Yet, because of His devotion to Lord Rama, Vishnu-tatva developed in Him. Since Maruti adorns Brahmatej and Kshatratej during wars, He can use both as required. During the war between the Kauravas and Pandavas, Lord Krishna seated Maruti on Arjun’s chariot (He can be seen on the flag at the top of Arjun’s chariot). Hanuman destroyed the weapons, directed at Arjun and his chariot, in mid-air itself. Lord Hanuman or Maruti in seated posture depicts the unmanifest form of power. Maruti in a warrior posture depicts the manifest form of power. To obtain benefit of the gross, manifest and destroyer element we should avoid installing a seated idol of Maruti in a temple. Maruti in seated position implies He is in deep meditation, wherein His motor organs are in dormant, inactive state. Thus, a common man will be able to derive very little benefit from this posture of Maruti.

ANACDOTES FROM HANUMAN'S LIFE

According to the legend Sita was applying sindoor to her head. Hanuman Ji saw it and asked the reason behind her act. Sita mata replied that this would ensure a long life for her husband Lord Rama and also he will be happy. Hanumanji then smeared his entire body with sindhoor, in an effort to ensure Rama’s immortality and to make him happy. When Lord Rama saw this he was touched by this gesture and blessed Hanumanji that he will be worshiped for his Bhakti. That is how the tradition of offering Sindoor to Hanuman idol started. It is believed that through this not only Hanuman but Lord Rama also blesses the person who offers sindoor to Hanumanji.

When Hanuman was a child he was very naughty. One day when he was playing he felt hungry. He saw sun and thought it as some fruit and swallowed it. The whole world was in dark. All the Devtas came and requested Hanuman to leave sun for the sake of humanity. Hanuman then threw out sun. So powerful he was.

भगवान महावीर स्वामी

       भगवान महावीर स्वामी

अहिंसा के अवतार भगवान महावीर स्वामी जैन धर्म के 24वें तीर्थंकर हैं। इनका जन्म ईसा से 599 वर्ष पहले गणतन्त्र वैशाली के क्षत्रिय कुण्ड़लपुर में चैत्र शुक्ल त्रयोदशी को हुआ था। पिता सिद्धार्थ और माता त्रिशला की यह तीसरी संतान वर्द्धमान ही बाद में विश्व में महावीर के नाम से जाने गये। 

विश्व को अंहिसा का पाठ पढ़ाने वाले भगवान महावीर को 'वीर' 'अतिवीर' और 'संमति' भी कहा जाता है। भगवान महावीर स्वामी ने 30 वर्ष की आयु में ही एकाकी दीक्षा धारण कर ली थी। भगवान महावीर जी ने आत्मिक और शाश्वत सुख की प्राप्ति हेतु पाँच सिद्धांत बताये है। ये पांच सिद्धांत है सत्य, अंहिसा, अपरिग्रह, क्षमा और ब्रह्मचर्य। भगवान महावीर जी ने अपने प्रवचनों में इन्ही पांच मूल्यों पर सबसे अधिक जोर दिया है। भगवान महावीर द्वारा दिया गया सन्देश - ' जियो और जीने दो ' चार शब्दों में सिमटा एक ऐसा संदेश है जो सम्पूर्ण जैन धर्म का आधार बहुत ही सरलता से व्यक्त करता है। इस संदेश का अर्थ है कि आपके जीवन का उद्देश्य ऐसा होना चाहिये कि आप दूसरो को भी शांति से जीने दें और स्वंय भी शांति से जिये।

भगवान महावीर नें चतुर्विध संघ की स्थापना की। मुनि, आर्यिका, श्रावक और श्राविका इन चारों के समुदाय को चतुर्विध कहा गया है। प्रथम दो वर्ग गृहत्यागी परिव्राजको के लिए और अंतिम दो ग्रहस्थों के लिए हैं। यही उनका चतुर्विघ संघ कहलाया।

भगवान महावीर स्वामी का जीवन त्याग और तपस्या से ओत-प्रोत था। उन्होने हमेशा हिंसा, पशुबली, जाति-पाति का पुर्नजोर तरीके से विरोध किया। उनके अनुसार सत्य के पक्ष में रहते हुए भी किसी के हक को मारे बिना, किसी को सताए बिना, अपने मर्यादा में रहते हुए पवित्र मन से, लोभ लालच किए बिना, नियम से बंधकर सुख-दुख में समान आचरण करके ही दुर्लभ जीवन को सार्थक किया जा सकता है।

भगवान महावीर के प्रवचनों में त्याग, संयम, प्रेम, करुणा, शील और सदाचार का सार रहा है। देश के भिन्न-भिन्न भागों में घूमकर अपना पवित्र सन्देश फैलाया। 72 वर्ष की आयु में (527 ईसापूर्व) पावापुरी में कार्तिक कृष्ण अमावस्या के दिन भगवान महावीर स्वामी ने निर्वाण प्राप्त किया।

भले ही आज भगवान महावीर स्वामी हमारे बीच नही हैं लेकिन उनकी वाणी और प्रवचन आज भी लाखों मुमुक्षुओं का मार्ग दर्शन करते हैं।