<![CDATA[DNA OF HINDUISM

<![CDATA[DNA OF HINDUISM - Festivals]]>Sun, 10 May 2026 10:52:17 -0700Weebly<![CDATA[Reverence of Ancestors for Prosperity]]>Fri, 19 Sep 2025 09:35:41 GMThttps://www.dnaofhinduism.com/festivals/reverence-of-ancestors-for-prosperityOne who worships ancestors achieves longevity, sons, fame, heaven, strength, wealth, and grains - आयुः पुत्रान् यशः स्वर्गं कीर्तिं पुष्टिं बलं श्रियम्। पशून् सौख्यं धनं धान्यं प्राप्नुयात् पितृपूजनात्।। Hindu scriptures describe the benefits of reverence of ancestors and the specific offerings such as food and water to the ancestors particularly during Pitru Paksha or Shraddha. Honouring ancestors (known as Pitru Devatas) through rituals like the Shraddha ceremony is believed to bring blessings and spiritual purification to the entire family line.
According to Vedic astrology, a person with Pitru Dosha (placement of certain planets in their kundali) may face a variety of challenges in life, which are believed to be the result of the unresolved ancestral karma.

Modern science affirms the importance of ancestry through the field of Genetics, which explains how physical traits, health risks, and even certain behaviours are passed down through generations via DNA.

Ancient texts such as Vedas (Rigveda and Atharvaveda), Puranas (Garuda, Markandeya, Brahma & Matsya), Mahabharata and Ramayana and Dharma shastras: Texts like the Manu smriti and Yajnavalkya Smriti contain hymns and rituals dedicated to forefathers, signifying the importance of the ancestral lineage.

Prevalence in Other Religions
While the specific rituals and beliefs of Pitru Paksha are unique to Hinduism, the reverence for ancestors and the practice of honouring the dead is a common thread that runs through many cultures and religions around the world. Examples of similar traditions include:

Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead): A Mexican holiday with indigenous and Catholic roots, where families create altars (ofrendas) with favourite foods and beverages of the deceased.
All Souls' Day (Christianity): Observed on November 2nd, this day is dedicated to praying for the souls of deceased loved ones in purgatory.
Qingming Festival (China): Also known as Tomb Sweeping Day, this festival involves people visiting the graves of their ancestors to clean the sites, make food offerings, and burn incense and paper money.

Obon Festival (Japan): A Buddhist-Shinto festival where lanterns are lit to guide the spirits of ancestors back to the world of the living. People visit graves and make food offerings.
When is Pitru Paksha or Shraddha?
Pitru Paksha is a 16-lunar day period in the Hindu calendar (Full moon day of Bhadrapada Purnima and concludes on the new moon day of Ashwin - Sarva Pitru Amavasya) dedicated to honouring and paying homage to one's ancestors.

Why is it celebrated?
The celebration of Pitru Paksha is rooted in the belief that one owes a debt to their ancestors, known as "Pitru Rin," for the gift of life and the legacy they have passed down. The rituals are performed to repay the ancestral debts and show gratitude. It is believed that during Pitru Paksha, the souls of ancestors come down to earth to receive the offerings from their descendants.

Where is it celebrated?
While the customs are observed in homes, there are also specific sacred places that are considered highly auspicious for performing these rituals. These pilgrimage sites are often located on the banks of holy rivers. Some of the most prominent places for performing Shraddha rituals include:

Gaya, Bihar: Considered the most sacred place for performing Shraddha.
Haridwar, Uttarakhand: On the banks of the Ganga River.
Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh: On the banks of the Ganga River.
Allahabad (Prayagraj), Uttar Pradesh: At the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers.
Badrinath, Uttarakhand: At the Brahma Kapal Tirth.
Jagannath Puri, Odisha

How is it celebrated?
The celebration of Pitru Paksha is centred around a set of rituals known as Shraddha. These rituals are typically performed by the eldest son or a male member of the family, although in some cases, female members can also perform them. The main rituals include:

Shraddha Ceremony: This involves offering food and prayers to the ancestors. A meal, often vegetarian and without onion or garlic, is prepared and offered to Brahmins, priests, and the needy.
Tarpan: A key ritual where water mixed with black sesame seeds, barley, and kusha grass is offered to the ancestors while reciting their names. This is believed to satisfy their hunger and thirst.
Pind Daan: This involves making offerings of food in the form of rice balls (pindas) mixed with ghee and sesame seeds. The pindas are offered at riverbanks or other sacred water bodies.
Feeding Crows and Animals: Crows are considered messengers of Yama, the god of death. Feeding them, as well as cows and dogs, is believed to be a way of ensuring that the offerings reach the ancestors.
Charity: Acts of charity, such as donating food, clothes, or money to the poor, are considered highly beneficial and are believed to bring blessings to the ancestors.

Restrictions: During this period, many Hindus observe a period of mourning. It is considered inauspicious to start new ventures, make significant purchases, or hold celebrations like weddings. People often abstain from non-vegetarian food, and some avoid cutting their hair or nails.

]]><![CDATA[The greatness of Shivaratri – Shiva Purana]]>Sat, 10 May 2025 07:50:31 GMThttps://www.dnaofhinduism.com/festivals/the-greatness-of-shivaratri-shiva-puranaIn the chapters 38 & 39 in Section 4 of Kotirudra-saṃhita of Shiva Purana, the glory of Shivaratri is mentioned.
The four vratas that bring about salvation are the worship of Shiva, the repetition of Rudra Mantra by way of Japa, observance of fast in Shiva’s temple and death in Varaṇasi. That salvation is eternal. Aṣṭami that falls on Monday, and Chaturdasi in the dark half are sure to bring about the propitiation of Shiva. Among the four the most powerful is the rite of Shivaratri. Hence that alone shall be performed by those who desire the fruits of worldly pleasures and salvation. To those without desire, to those with specific desires, to all men of all castes and stages of life, even to women and to children, this rite is very beneficial.
In the dark half of the month of Magha, Shivaratri is specifically glorified. The rite of Shivaratri is performed when the Chaturdasi extends up-to mid-night. The observance of the rite on that Tithi quells the sin of even a crore of human slaughters.

Worship on Shivratri:
Rising in the morning, the intelligent man with great delight, shall perform his daily routine of bath with care. He shall then go to the temple of Shiva for worship. After making obeisance to Shiva, he shall observe the Ritualistic affirmation of his performance according to the prescribed course.
After this affirmation the devotee shall collect the articles of worship. The phallic image shall be taken from a good place by the devotee himself at night by going there. The phallic image shall be that which is prescribed in the Agamas. The materials of worship shall be placed on a good spot near Shiva either to the South or to the West. Then the devotee shall take bath again duly. The devotee shall perform the Acamana thrice and begin worship.
The worship shall be performed in due concordance with the material and the mantras. Shiva’s worship shall always be performed in accompaniment with the mantras. The intelligent devotee shall repeat the mantras after performing worship in the first 3-hour period with music, songs, dances and devotional services. If he knows the sacred verses, he shall make earthen images of excellent type. After performing the daily routine, he shall worship the earthen image.
The devotee shall propitiate the bull-bannered lord, with several hymns. The glory of the Vrata shall be proclaimed by the intelligent devotee. It shall be heard by the devotee desiring the completion of the Vrata.
Thus, four different idols shall be made for the four 3-hour periods. They shall be shall keep awake with pleasure and jubilation. In the morning he shall take bath again. After installing the idol, he shall perform the worship. After concluding the rites and bowing to Shiva again and again he shall pray to him with palms joined in devotion and shoulders drooping down.
“O great God, the rite I have started at your behest has been performed and concluded. It has become excellent. O lord, the idol is being ritualistically dismissed now. O lord of gods O Shiva, be satisfied with the Vrata that I have performed strenuously. Please be merciful to me.”
The devotee shall offer a handful of flowers to Shiva and make charitable gifts. After making obeisance to Shiva formally he shall conclude the rites. After feeding brahmin devotees of Shiva and ascetics in particular, as far as possible and making them satiated, the devotee shall take food himself.
During the first 3-hour period the devotee shall worship with great devotion the earthen phallic image duly installed by way of good devotional services. Shiva shall always be worshipped with the five materials at the outset. The different articles of worship shall be separately offered with their respective mantras. After offering the materials the steady water-pouring shall be made. The intelligent devotee shall consecrate the materials of worship with the steady pouring of water. He shall worship Shiva, both Nirguṇa and Saguna, by the steady pouring of water, reciting the 108 mantras.
The worship of Shiva the supreme soul shall be performed with sandal-paste, unbroken rice-grains and black gingelly seeds. Again, Shiva shall be worshipped with lotus and and Karavira flowers. The devotee shall offer the flowers with the eight Namamantras to Shiva. They are Bhava, Sarva, Rudra, Pashupati, Ugra, Mahat, Bhima and Ishana.
When the names are used for worship, they shall be prefixed with “Om”. The incense and the lamps shall be used. The food-offering shall be made thereafter. In the first 3-hour period the intelligent devotee shall make cooked rice as food-offering. Half a coconut, and Tambula shall be offered afterwards. Obeisance and meditation shall follow and the mantra taught by the preceptor shall be used for Japa. Or the devotee shall propitiate Shiva by means of the five-syllabled mantra.
The devotee shall exhibit the mystic gesture of cow and offer Tarpaṇa with pure water. He shall then feed five Brahmins or more in accordance with his capacity. Then till the end of that 3-hour period festivities shall be observed. After dedicating the fruit of the worship to the deity himself, the ritualistic dismissal shall be performed.
Then in the second 3-hour period Saṃkalpa rites shall be performed duly as before. Or the Saṃkalpa rite shall be performed once for all the four 3-hour periods. Worship shall be performed as before. After performing the worship with the materials as before, the Jaladhara shall be offered. Then the devotee shall worship Shiva with gingelly seeds, barley grains and lotus-flowers. The devotee shall worship lord Shiva particularly with the leaves of the Bilva tree. The Arghya shall be offered with citron fruit. The Naivedya shall consist of milk pudding. O Viṣṇu, the repetition of the mantra shall be twice as that of the previous one. Then the brahmins shall be fed sumptuously. Other rites shall be performd as before till the end of the second 3-hour period of time.
In the third 3-hour period the worship shall be done as before. But instead of barley, wheat grains shall be used and the flowers of the sun-plant shall be offered. Incenses and lamps shall be of various types. The Naivedya shall consist of fried pies and various vegetable dishes. The waving of light, as part of worship, shall be performed with camphor. The Arghya shall consist of the pomegranate. The Japa repetition shall be thrice that of the previous. The feeding of brahmins shall follow along with the monetary gifts. Till the end of that period, festivities shall be celebrated as before.
When the fourth 3-hour period arrives the ritualistic dismissal of the previous worship shall be performed. The worship shall be performed duly with due ritualistic gestures. The devotee shall worship lord Shiva with black gram, green gram, Priyangu grains or any of the seven cereals, the flowers of Sankhi and the leaves of Bilva. The Naivedya shall be offered with different sweets or cooked black gram and rice in order to propitiate Sada-Shiva. Arghya shall be offered to Shiva with the plantain fruit or with different types of fruits.
The exellent man shall perform the mantra japa twice in number of that on the previous occasion. The intelligent devotee shall decide on the number of brahmins to be fed. Till day-break the devotee shall pass time in songs of prayer, musical instruments, devotional dances and other festivities along with his fellow devotees.
When the sun rises, he shall take his bath and then worship Shiva. The ablution of the deity shall be performed with devout services and adorations. Charitable gifts shall be offered, brahmins and ascetics shall be fed with different dishes, their number being in accordance with what was decided before.
After making obeisance to Shiva, handful of flowers shall be offered. The skilful devotee shall then pray after eulogising the lord with the mantras: —
“O Mṛḍa, the storehouse of mercy, knowing that I belong to you, my very life is embedded in you and my mind is dedicated to you, please do what is proper. O lord of living beings, be favourable to me viewing sympathetically at the Japa and worship conducted by me with the requisite knowledge or in ignorance. May lord Shiva the bestower of happiness be pleased with the fruit arising out of this fast and other rite. O lord Shiva, may your worship flourish in my family always. Let me not be born in the family where you are not a deity.”
After offering Puṣpanjali and accepting the Tilakas and blessings from the brahmins, the devotee shall ritualistically dismiss the deity. If the rite is performed thus, Shiva is not inaccessible to him. The fruit that he derives is inexplicable. There is nothing which I shall not give in return. If this excellent rite is performed without attachment, salvation will come to him in the form of seed. There is no scope for any doubt in this matter. This Vrata shall be performed with great devotion every month. After performing the concluding rite, the devotee shall reap the fruit with subsidiary benefits. Certainly, for the performance of this Vrata, Shiva, the destroyer of all miseries grants all desired benefits, worldly pleasures and salvation.
Udyapana (formal concluding):
The auspicious Shivaratri vrata shall be performed for fourteen years. On the Trayodashi day only one meal shall be taken and a complete fast shall be observed on the Chaturdashi day.
On the Shivaratri day after performing the routine, the devotee shall go to the temple of Shiva and perform worship. He shall make the mystical diagram famous in the three worlds by the name of Gauritilaka. In the middle of the mystical diagram Lingatobhadra and Sarvatobhadra shall be delineated. (Gauritilaka, Lingatobhadra and Sarvatobhadra are the circular diagrams of particular type depicting the positions of the deities to be invoked therein for offering worship, propitiation, eulogy etc.)
As in the Prajapatya rite, auspicious water-pots shall be placed wrapped in cloth, with a cocoanut above and the Dakṣiṇa in. The pots shall be carefully placed at the sides of the altar. In middle either a discus or a gold-pot shall be placed. The devotee shall make an idol of Shiva accompanied by Uma, of gold a pala in weight. According to his capacity the weight may be reduced to half of a pala. Shiva shall be on the left side and Shiva on the right. The devotee shall worship the idol at night.
He shall keep awake during the night performing worship in the different 3-hour periods and singing songs of prayer or devoutly dancing. After performing the worship thus in accordance with the injunctions he shall propitiate the lord. He shall worship again in the morning and perform Homa duly. He shall perform the Prajapatya rites according to his ability. With pleasure he shall feed brahmins and with devotion he shall make charitable gifts. He shall give the Ṛtviks and their wives good clothes and ornaments for bedecking themselves and make gifts to them separately. Saying “May Shiva be pleased”, he shall make the gift of a cow and a calf together with the essential requisites to the preceptor.
He shall pray to lord Śiva the great lord with great pleasure, with palms joined in reverence, with shoulders drooping and words choked with emotion.
“O great lord, lord of the gods, favourably disposed to the devotees, be merciful to me, thanks to this Vrata. O Shiva, this Vrata is performed by me according to my ability. O lord, if it is deficient in any respect let it become perfect by your favour. Japa and worship and other things have been performed partly in ignorance and partly with knowledge by me. May these be fruitful, O Shiva, by your mercy.”
After saying this the flower-offering shall be made to Shiva the great soul. He shall make obeisance and pray again. If the Vrata is performed thus it will be complete and no deficiency will remain. The devotee will attain Siddhi desired by him. There is no doubt in it.
]]><![CDATA[MahaShivratri – the festival of auspiciousness]]>Tue, 01 Mar 2022 16:13:05 GMThttps://www.dnaofhinduism.com/festivals/mahashivratri-the-festival-of-auspiciousness

MahaShivratri – the festival of auspiciousness
This universe is not eternal. It is created; it is sustained for a certain period and it is destroyed to be recreated. The fact remains, everything in this universe is mortal. Modern physicists have also proved that the whole creation comes out of nothing and will go into nothingness. Widespread emptiness is the basis of existence and the fundamental property of the universe. ... This vast emptiness is what we call Shiva. The celebration and remembrance of Shiva is done on Mahashivratri.

Mahashivratri is one of the major festivals in Hinduism, and this festival is solemn and marks a remembrance of "overcoming darkness and ignorance" in life and the world.

Scientific relevance:
Astrologically, the gravitational pull of the Moon is maximum on the new Moon and full moon day, resulting in the rise of full body fluid in an upward direction towards the brain. Maha Shivaratri is celebrated on 14th day/chaturdashi of Krishna paksha of magha month. Around Maha Shivaratri, the Sun and the Moon are aligned in such a way that the Vata component of our body gets activated. The activity is maximum during this time of the year.

As per Ayurveda, Vata is one of the three constituents of the body, the other two being Pitta and Kapha. Anything related to movement in the body has a direct connection with Vata. Vata directly impacts the following –

At the physical level (Sthula), Vata impacts the nervous system, and controls all bodily movement.
At a cellular level (Sookshma), Vata “moves” nutrients into the body, and at the same time “moves” the wastes out of the cell.
In the natural plan (Karana), Vata helps in retrieving information from the memory, and enables cause and effect analysis.

Even a minor imbalance of Vata drastically affects the points mentioned above. In case of a Vata imbalance, the person will experience issues like lethargy, demotivation, forgetfulness, bad temperament, depressed, aggressive, mood swings and in extreme cases anti-social and suicidal tendencies. A key characteristic of Vata is dryness. Most of us would have noticed that during this time of the year, the body becomes very dry more so during the night.

Medically, the night of Shivaratri is the best time for us to balance the Vata in ourselves. As Yogis, we identify 5 types of Vata - Prana Vata (responsible for inhalation), Apana Vata (responsible for removal of waste), Udana Vata (responsible for exhalation), Samana Vata (responsible for consolidation) and Vyana Vata (responsible for locomotion). If one performs the Vata Kriya during the week of Maha Shivaratri, or at least on that one day, all the above Vatas as cleansed and lubricated. A person with a balanced and cleanses Vata will exhibit a positive behaviour and extrovert, happy, clam and have presence of mind.

Fasting on Maha Shivaratri make you more stable to combat with the effect of moon (religiously/ and scientifically as it is said that moon much like sea effects state of mind).

When celebrated:
Maha Shivratri is one of the most auspicious Hindu festivals celebrated in honour of Lord Shiva. It falls on the Chaturdashi Tithi during Krishna Paksha. While Shivratri occurs every month, Mahashivratri is the great night of Shiva that occurs only once a year in the month of Magha.

How Celebrated:

The celebration includes "jagaran", an all-night prayer because it is believed that all through the night doing japa is like "overcoming darkness and ignorance" in one's life and the world through Shiva. Offerings of fruits, leaves, sweets and milk to Shiva are made, some perform all-day fasting with Vedic or tantric worship of Shiva, and some perform meditative Yoga. "Om Namah Shivaya", the sacred mantra of Shiva, is chanted throughout the day. Devotees praise Shiva through the recitation of Shiv Chalisa.
Shiva Linga puja - incorporate following items:
Bathing the Shiv Linga with water, milk and honey. Wood, apple or bel leaves are added to, representing purification of the soul;
As Bel leaves have the capacity to absorb maximum frequencies of Shiva principle, these leaves are offered to Lord Shiva. The leaves should be offered with their stalks facing oneself and the leaf should be placed upside down on the pindi. When the Bel leaves are offered upside down on the pindi, the nirgun frequencies are emitted in greater amount from them and the devotee is benefitted by it. Bilva (Bel) leaves contain chemical compounds – Furocoumarins and Flavonoids. The Bilva leaves are the preventive medicine for respiratory diseases and cardiac problems.
Vermilion paste is applied to the Shiv Linga after bathing it. This represents virtue; (Do not use turmeric and Kumkum. Turmeric and Kumkum represent evolution, hence do not offer turmeric and kumkum to Lord Shiva, who is a Deity of dissolution.)
Offering of fruits, which is conducive to longevity and gratification of desires;
Burning incense, yielding wealth;
The lighting of the lamp which is conducive to the attainment of knowledge;
And betel leaves marking satisfaction with worldly pleasures.
White rice (Akshata) is offered to Lord Shiva.
Nishagandhi, mogra and other white flowers are offered in tens or multiples of ten to Shivalinga. The flowers should be offered with stalks facing towards Shivalinga.
Udbatti and Attar: Kevda and Jasmine Udbattis and Kevda attar is used in Shiva puja.
Tripundra refers to the three horizontal stripes of holy ash applied to the forehead by worshipers of Lord Shiva. These stripes symbolise spiritual knowledge, purity and penance (spiritual practice of Yoga). They also represent the three eyes of Lord Shiva.
Wearing a mala (rosary) made from the rudraksha seeds of the rudraksha tree (said to have sprung from the tears of Lord Shiva) when worshiping Lord Shiva is ideal.
When circumambulation of Shivalinga, one should begin on the left-hand side and continue till the channel of the shalunka from where the water offered during the ritualistic bathing (abhishekam) flows. Without crossing it one should complete a circumambulation by moving in the reverse direction upto the other side of the channel (source). This rule applies only if the Shivalinga is installed or created by man; it does not apply to a svayambhu or a chala linga (kept in the house). Lot of energy flows from the channel of Shalunka, which a normal person may not be able to bear if he crosses it repeatedly. Hence, only ardha pradakshina is offered to Shivalinga.
During the Shri Rudram Shivlinga puja, one invokes the deity within him before they can pray to the deity outside them (the process is called Anganyas). The person performing the puja offers flowers to all the gods and then puts some on their own head. This act is done to recognize that there is the energy of Rudra in themselves. Only after the invocation of Rudra in oneself, one becomes eligible to perform the Rudra Puja.
After Anganyas, the abhishekam (worship) of the Shiva Lingam is done with the panchamrut. The elements of the panchamrut represent the pancha-tattvas (the five elements of which the universe is made - space, air, fire, water, and earth). Shivalinga itself is the symbol of this existence, including all manifest and unmanifest universe. All the tattvas in this existence are pacified by offering the five components of the panchamrut. These components are - milk, curd, jaggery, honey, and ghee. Offering a mixture of these five over a Shivalinga is symbolic of pacifying the five elements across the existence. It is the harmony within these five elements that allows peace to pervade. So, the Shri Rudram is not done for the benefit of self because worshipping a Shivalinga is like worshipping the entire existence. Since Vedic times, it has been known that Rudra Puja is the most powerful tool to bring peace in the environment.

Why Celebrated – Spiritual Significance:
Different legends describe the significance of Maha Shivaratri. According to one legend, this is the night when Shiva performs the heavenly dance of creation, preservation and destruction. The chanting of hymns, the reading of Shiva scriptures and the chorus of devotees joins this cosmic dance and remembers Shiva's presence everywhere. According to another legend, this is the night when Shiva and Parvati got married. A different legend states the offering to Shiva icons such as the Linga is an annual occasion to get over past sins if any, to restart on a virtuous path and thereby reach Mount Kailasha and liberation.

Shiva Purana, chapter 6 has explained the creation of universe. Brahma ji explained to sages that at the ti
me of Great Dissolution, all the mobile and immobile objects of the world were dissolved and no celestial body existed. No demarcation of the day and the night existed. There was no fire, no wind, no earth and no water. There was no unmanifest primordial being. The whole firmament was one complete void. The manifest form of the formless Being is Shiva. Isvara then created the physical form Shakti from his body. This Shakti is called by various names - Pradhana, Prakriti, Maya, Guṇavati, Para. Shakti is the mother of Buddhi Tattva (The cosmic Intelligence), the mother of material world.

In Vidhyeshwara Samhita (First Samhita) of Shiva Purana, it is mentioned that in the first cosmic cycle (kalpa) Shiva assumed huge column of fire to decide the superiority between Brahma ji and Vishnu ji. But neither of two could find the upper or lower end of the huge column. Finally, Shiv ji came out of the column of fire and took visible form and declared, “O dear Vishnu, I am pleased with you, as you strictly adhered to the truth in spite of your desire to be supreme. Hence among the general public you will have footing equal to mine. You will be honoured likewise. Hereafter, you will have separate from me having separate temple, installation of idols, festivals and worship.” Brahma and Vishnu, both adored Shankara. Shiv Ji said, “he is delighted with the worship on this holy day. Henceforth this day will be famous as Shivratri. He who performs the worship of my phallic emblem and embodied image on this day will be competent to perform the task of creation and maintenance. The devotees who will observe fast on Shivratri during day and night, he shall restrain sense organs. He shall adore to the extent of his strength. He shall not deceive anyone. Fasting, worship of phallic emblem and festivities on the day bring ample results including liberation.”

Those with worldly ambitions see that day as the day Shiva conquered all his enemies.

]]><![CDATA[Hindu Festivals nurture Relations]]>Sat, 07 Aug 2021 07:45:43 GMThttps://www.dnaofhinduism.com/festivals/hindu-festivals-nurture-relations

Hindu festivals nurture the personal bonding among different members of the joint family. Unlike mechanical western system of designating one day for a particular relation of the family member, Hindu festivals have religious, spiritual, social and economic importance. They have a very strong foundation which enhances the bonding of the relations.

Western countries have designated different dates for different relations – Baby Day (May 2nd), Brother & sister day (May 2nd), Parents day (as per UNO - June 1), Father Day (various dates), Mother Day (various dates), Brother Day (May 24th), Sisters Day (first Sunday of August), Son & daughter day (August 11th), Children Day (November 20th), Husband appreciation day (third Saturday of April), Wife appreciation day (third Sunday of September), Grandparents Day (various dates), Family Day (May 15th), Father-in-Law Day (July 30th), Mother-in-Law Day (fourth Sunday of October), Son-in-Law Day (April 10th), Aunt & Uncle Day, Cousins Day (July 24th), Daughter-in-Law Day, etc.

Every Hindu festival celebration centre around the rituals of prayer, fasting and seeking of blessings, and involves the decoration of homes, wearing of new clothes, music, dancing, and feasting. Hindu Festivals are many and celebrated for different relations. Under the influence of western culture, Hindus are gradually forgetting or ignoring the celebration of these festivals. The purpose of this article is to remind about the rich Hindu culture and festivals.

Mother day (मातृ नवमी) - The ninth day of pitru paksha is called Matri Navami. It falls on the ninth day of krishna paksha in the month of Ashwin (October-November). On this day worship and Shraddha are performed for the women of the family who have passed away. It is believed that by performing Shradh on this day, mothers are blessed
Father day (पित्र दिवस) – Pitru divas is falls in Kushe ahusi or pita ahusi (Father new moon). It usually celebrated in first or second week of August. In Nepal, this day is called typically as father face seeing day. It is celebrated by honouring father with special gifts to father. According to Hinduism or Sanatan Dharma to respect, protect, taking care of father, mother and Guru ( special Teacher) is equal to worshiping any god cause they are god for their children and student.
Valentine day (कौमुदी महोत्सव) - The Kaumudi Festival is a festival celebrated on the day of Kaumudi (the full moon of Kartik month, November-December). The Kaumudi Festival is synonymous with love. The festival was celebrated on the day of Sharad Purnima in ancient India. It was a state festival in the state of Magadha. The highway from Patliputra to Rajgir was decorated with good smelling flowers. Young men and women used to express their love. Married couples used to be in different locations. The youth used to wait for the Kaumudi Festival the whole year. The couples used to be well dressed and with beautiful makeup. The young man used to say to the young woman, "Bhavyami." The young woman used to say, "Paribhavyami." Bhavyami means "I want you from the depths of the soul. Parivbhavyami means "I want you more. I would give you more love than yours. "
Teacher day (गुरु पूर्णिमा) - Guru Purnima is celebrated as the birthday of Maharishi Vedvyasa on Aashaadha Purnima (full moon day of shukla paksha of Aashaadha month, August). On this festival, faith is expressed in the teacher.
Doctor day (धन्वन्तरि जयन्ती) - Lord Dhanvantari is considered to be the incarnation of Bhagwan Vishnu. Dhanvantri Jayanti is celebrated on the day of Kartik Krishna Triyodashi (November), two days before Deepawali. Lord Dhanwantari is known as father of Ayurvedic medicine system. It is considered auspicious to purchase brass utensils on this day. Worshipping Dhanwantari on Dhanteras day brings blessings of good health.
Children day (सन्तान सप्तमी) - On the seventh day of shukla paksha of Bhadrapada month (October), the fast for children is done. On this day, Bhagwan Shiva and Ma Gauri are worshipped to make them happy and get blessings of children, their protection and progress.
Daughters’ day (नव रात्रि - कन्या भोज) – This festival is celebrated in Navratri (March-April, October-November). On this day, people worship Ma Durga and feed the young girls (age of girls in range of two to five years preferred) on ashtami and navami to bring the grace of Mahalaxmi along with Goddess Annapurna.
Sisters’ day (रक्षा बंधन) - The festival is celebrated on the full moon day of Shravan month (August-September). This festival binds brother and sister in the bond of affection. On this day the sister ties a tika on her brother's forehead and ties the bond of protection, which is called Rakhi.
Brothers’ day (भाई दूज) - Bhai Dooj) is a Hindu festival celebrated on the second day of Shukla Paksha of Kartika month (November-December), which is also known as Yama Dwitiya. It is such a festival that comes two days after Diwali, which expresses the affection of sister towards brother and sisters wish for the happiness of their brother.
Environment day (आंवला नवमी, तुलसी विवाह) –

Amla Navami Dev Uthani is celebrated two days before Ekadashi on ninth day of Kartika Shukla Paksha (November). It is believed that Bhagwan Vishnu resides on the amla tree on the day of Amla Navami. According to the scriptures, chanting of mantra, Tapas and charity done on the day of Amla Navami, return being multiplied. On this day, sitting near the amla and worshipping removes all sins.

Tulsi Marriage festival is celebrated on Ekadashi of Shukla Paksha of Kartika month (November-December). On this day, marriage of Tulsi plant with Shaligram is performed. By worshipping them, Lord Vishnu and Lakshmi ji are made happy and this increases prosperity and happiness at home.

Ancestors’ day (पितृ पक्ष) - In Hinduism, the service of parents is considered to be the biggest worship. People should not forget their parents and ancestors even after death, so they need to perform their Shraddha. The sixteen days from Bhadrapada Purnima to Ashwin Krishna Paksha Amavasya (October-November) are called Pitru Paksha in which people serve their ancestors. They offer water and food to the poor, cow, crow, dog & Brahmins and charities to poor and Brahmins.
Friends and relatives’ day (होली) – Holi is celebrated on first & second day of Krishna Paksha Phalguna (March). It is a popular ancient Hindu festival, also known as the "Festival of Love", the "Festival of Colours", and the "Festival of Spring". The festival celebrates the eternal and divine love of Radha Krishna. It also signifies the triumph of good over evil, as it celebrates the victory of Bhagwan Vishnu as Narasimha Narayana over Hiranyakashipu. Holi celebrations start on the night before the day of Holi with a Holika Dahan where people gather, perform religious rituals in front of the bonfire, and pray that their internal evil be destroyed. Next day, Rangwali Holi (Dhuleti) – a free-for-all festival of colours, where people smear each other with colours and drench each other. On this day, people having tiff also forget their bickering and rejuvenate their friendship.
Husband day (करवा चौथ, वट सावित्री) –

Karva Chauth is celebrated on the Chaturthi of Krishna Paksha of Kartik month (November-December). Married women celebrate this festival. Bhalchandra Ganesh ji is worshiped on this day for the longevity and good fortune of the husband.

Vat Savitri fast is famous by the name of Vat Savitri due to the ritual of worshiping the Vat tree and remembering the story of Savitri-Satyavan. Worshiping the banyan tree for the longevity of the husband became a part of this fast. Women perform fast-worship along with Katha Karma and wrap threads of cotton around the Vat tree during the circumambulation. It is considered to give good luck and help in the attainment of children. There are different opinions regarding the date of this fast. According to Skanda Purana and Bhavishyottara Purana, there is a law to observe this fast on the full moon day of Shukla Paksha of Jyeshtha month, while according to Niyasamrit etc., it has been said to fast on Amavasya of Jyeshtha month.

Married daughters’ day (श्रावण शुक्ल तीज) - The festival of Hariyali Teej is celebrated on Shukla Paksha Tritiya in the month of Shravan (August-September). This festival is a celebration of married women. In the month, whole nature is covered with a green sheet. This festival of faith, enthusiasm, beauty and love is celebrated to commemorate the reunion of Shiva and Parvati. On this occasion, women swing, sing folk songs and celebrate. Married women on Hariyali Teej do fasting for the long life and happiness and prosperity.
Sons’ day (बहुला चौथ, अहोई आठे)

Bahula Chauth (Bahula Chaturthi) is celebrated on the fourth day of krishna paksha of Bhadrapada (October). It is also known as Bahula Ganesh Chaturthi. On this day, women do fast to wish the children a long life.

Ahoi Ashtami fast is celebrated on the eighth day of Kartik Krishna Paksha (November-December). Mothers keep fast throughout the day for the long life and happy life of their son. During the fasting of Ahoi Ashtami, Hoi is worshiped when the stars are visible in the evening. Arghya is also offered to the stars. This hoi is made on the wall or it is hung on the wall at the time of worship after wrapping hoi on a thick cloth.

]]><![CDATA[Pitra Paksha (Shraaddha) – A period for departed ancestors]]>Fri, 05 Oct 2018 20:59:01 GMThttps://www.dnaofhinduism.com/festivals/pitru-paksha-shraddha-a-period-for-departed-ancestors

Should we forget that our ancestors who have endowed us with name, fame, wealth, family business, and heritage? No. Pitra Paksha is the occasion to pay respect and repay the debt of our departed parents, grandparents and great grandparents.

Hinduism or Snatana Dharma has festivals not only to celebrate different family relationships, but to also pay reverence to the ancestors after death. The dedicated period during which Hindus remember their ancestors is called Pitra Paksha. During Pitra Paksha, the rites performed are called as Shraaddha or Tarpan, to seek blessings of ancestors. It is time to remember the ties with his lineage.

Shrimad Bhagavad Gita, Rishi Kapil’s Samkhya Darshan, Markandya Upanishad, Atharva Veda, Garuda Puran and other Hindu scriptures have explained about subtle body after death, continuation of embodiments after death, about pitra loka & other realms and need of Shraddha (various scriptures are discussed hereunder). Overall, they descrive four types of debts undertaken by human beings - Brahma rin (Supreme god debt), Dev rin (deities’ debt), Rishi or guru rin (debt towards teachers and sages) and Pitra rin (debt or obligation towards parents and ancestors).

Why performed:
According to Hinduism, the souls of three preceding generations of one's ancestor reside in Pitra–loka, a realm between heaven and earth. The scripture Markandeya Purana says that if the ancestors are content with the shraaddha, they will bestow health, wealth, knowledge and longevity, and ultimately heaven and salvation (moksha) upon the performer.

When performed:
It is performed for a fortnight in the 2nd paksha Hindu lunar month of Bhadrapada (September) in southern and western India and in Ashwin month in north India & Nepal. It begins on the Pratipada (first day of the fortnight) ending with the no moon day known as amavasya (also known as Pitra Amavasya, Peddala Amavasya, Mahalaya amavasya or simply Mahalaya).

The shraaddha is performed on the specific lunar day during the Pitra Paksha, day on which the ancestor died. Special days are allotted for people who died in a particular manner or had a certain status in life. The fourth and fifth lunar day respectively, are allocated for people deceased in the past year. The ninth lunar day is for married women who died before their husband. The twelfth lunar day is for children and ascetics who had renounced the worldly pleasures. The fourteenth day is reserved for those people killed by arms, in war or suffered a violent death.

Amavasya is intended for all ancestors, irrespective of the lunar day they died. Those who have forgotten to perform shraddha can do so on this day.

How performed:
Shraaddha is offering of food and water to the preceding three generations i.e. parents, grandparents and great grand-parents that have already died. Traditionally, performing Shraddha or Tarpan is done as under:

The person performing shraadha should take bath and wear loin cloth with no cloth on chest.
He is expected to wear a ring of darbha grass and sacred thread.
Learned Brahmins are invited home on the shraadha day and rituals are carried out. Widowers invite Brahmin women as guests for their wife's shraddha.
The ancestors are invoked by reciting their names and gotra to reside in the darbha grass ring.
Ancestors are offered cooked rice and barley flour balls mixed with ghee, black sesame seeds and other cooked food, accompanying the release of water from the hand. Subsequently, the offerings are also made to crow, dog, cow, begger and Brahmin.
At the end of rituals, the Brahmins are offered cooked foods including Kheer & urad dal items and gifted with new clothes, vegetables, fruits, salt, sesame seeds, sweets, Ghee (Indian butter), Sugar, grinded wheat, pulses, rice etc. and dakshina (money). It is believed that the offerings given to them will reach the ancestors.

Generation Z: What should I do?
1. Do not buy new expensive stuff - like new buildings, jewelry or other valuables.
2. Avoid non-vegetarian food and consumption of alcohol.
3. On last day of shraadha (i.e. amavasya, new moon) - offering following items to Brahmins (give to temple):

1 fruit
1 vegetable
Pack of sugar
Pack of rice
Pack of wheat
Ghee (i.e. clarified butter)
Pack of split black gram aka urad dal
New clothes like blanket, towel, or shirt
Money (dakshina, say $21)

Who perform:
Shraaddha is performed by the son for his paternal side of family. For maternal side, daughter’s son can perform Shraaddha for maternal side.

Where performed:
Shraaddha is performed at home normally. However, Shraaddha performed at Varanasi, Prayaga, Gaya, Kedarnath, Badrinath, Rameswaram and Nasik, have special significance.

Precautions for Pitra Paksha:
Out of respect of our ancestors, one should keep following things in mind:

During pitra paksh, no auspicious work, no new beginning, special pooja and ritual should be performed. But, the daily worship of the Gods should not be stopped.
People should not buy new clothes, new buildings, jewelry or other valuables.
Purity of body, mind and soul should be maintained during Pitru Paksha.
Washing hair, cutting hair and even shaving are prohibited during this period, especially on the last day, i.e. Mahalaya Amavasya.
Celebrations such as of marriage, ceremonies of new born, etc. should be postponed.
Eat stavik food - i.e. non-vegetarian food, onion, and garlic should not be consumed.
One who performs Shraaddha should perform it with utmost sincerity and without negative thoughts.

Deep Dive: Significance of Shraaddha in Hindu scriptures:
Atharva Veda on Shraaddha:
There are many verses in Chapter 18 of Atharva Veda relating to appeasing the ancestors and funeral rites. Kāṇḍa 18 has four sūktas and they are known as pitṛmedha sūktas (पितृमेध सूक्त). Pitṛmedha means oblations made to pitṛus. This kāṇḍa begins by offering prayers to Yama, the god of death and his sister Yamī (Yama’s sister is so called in this kāṇḍa – verse 13). In pitṛmedha ceremonies, offerings are always made to Sarasvatī too. Then the performer prays to Sarasvatī to join with his pitṛus (forefathers) and bestow wealth on them. He pleads to Sarasvatī to send the ancestors back to the heaven and those who are reborn should not be made to suffer. Vedas consider pitṛus as one of the gods and they are invoked even during auspicious ceremonies and such ceremonies are called nāndī.) Later, in verses 51 and 52, the performer appeals to his forefathers, “Please be seated on this kusa grass (darbha). We have prepared offerings for you. Please eat these offerings and bless us with disease free life and wealth. If we have committed any mistakes that are common to humanity, please forgive us.” Later the invoked ancestors are given a send-off. The one representing ancestors is addressed as Vasu, Rudra, Āditya (From Aditi were born the 33 devas, 12 Ādityas or solar gods, 8 Vasus or elemental gods, 11 Rudrās or Shivas and 2 Ashwins), representing one’s father (only if father is not alive), grandfather and great grandfather respectively. It is believed that the food offered to him goes to the performer’s forefathers. Vasu, Rudra and Āditya represent three higher planes and Aditya is considered as the highest plane. Verses 54 to 57 are addressed to the departed soul.
During annual ceremonies, the subtle bodies (Pitru bodies) are supposed to arrive at the place where annual ceremonial rites are performed. There are certain texts which say that they can eat only through the smell of the food. Hence tasty dishes are prepared during Shraddhas. It is also said that when sesame seeds are fried, pitṛus descend from upper worlds and come to the place where sesame seeds are roasted and they have the capacity to satiate their hunger by inhaling this smell. This is said to be main reason for using sesame seeds in ancestral rites. When they arrive for the smell of sesame seeds, they also bless the family members of the yajamana.

Garuda Purana:
Garuda Purana deals the details subsequent to death and rites to be performed thereafter. It mentions that if Shraddha rites are performed, the performer and his family are blessed by his ancestors. His father blesses him with sons; grandfather and great grandfather bless him with wealth. Those who perform annual Shraddha rites liberate ancestors and blessed by them. It lays emphasis on various gifts. Gifts are to be interpreted in proper sense. The intent of the Purana is to make one share his riches with others. Sesame seeds and Dharba grass are used in all Shraddha rituals which are considered as sacred. Sesame seeds can destroy evil spirits and can burn all the sins committed by the deceased. Thirst of the corpse is quenched by offering libation with water and sesame seeds.

Samkhya Darshan on Subtle body:
Maherishi Kapil has mentioned in chapter 2, verse 3 & sub verse 9 of Samkhya Darshan about migration of soul from one body to another as under:

सप्तदशैकं लिङ्गम् II3/9
Meaning: Subtle body (10 subtle elements of organs of senses & action, 5 Tanmatra, mind and buddhi -17 elements) always accompanies the soul (Jivatma) as outward covering in migrating to another body. Subtle body also called spiritual body, or rudimentary body or astral body or linga.

Shrimad Bhagavad Gita on re-birth:
Shree Krishna has explained about eternal soul, Brahman and Prakriti and re-birth in Shrimad Bhagavad Gita, the final text Snatana Dharma. He has outlined about re-birth in chapter 9 and 14 of Shrimad Bhagavad Gita as under:

यदा सत्त्वे प्रवृद्धे तु प्रलयं याति देहभृत् । तदोत्तमविदां लोकानमलान्प्रतिपद्यते ॥ १४-१४॥ रजसि प्रलयं गत्वा कर्मसङ्गिषु जायते । तथा प्रलीनस्तमसि मूढयोनिषु जायते ॥ १४-१५॥
Meaning: When a man dies during the preponderance of Sattva, he obtains the clean ethereal worlds (heaven etc.,) attained by men of noble deeds (14.14). When Rajas predominates, he is born among those attached to action; even so, the man who has expired during the preponderance of Tamas is reborn in the species of the deluded creatures such as insects and beasts etc. (14.15).

References:

Shrimad Bhagavad Gita, Gita press, Gorakhpur.
Samkhya Darshan.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pitru_Paksha
https://www.manblunder.com/articlesview/atharva-veda-and-death

]]><![CDATA[Why Festivals –tool of celebrations]]>Sun, 19 Aug 2018 16:42:38 GMThttps://www.dnaofhinduism.com/festivals/why-festivals-tool-of-celebrations

Everybody strives for pleasure, happiness, joy or bliss throughout life. Why so; because that is the very nature of self or soul. Nobody can remain in pain, hatred, jealousy, or any other negative emotions for very long time. The mind settles ultimately in peace and happiness.
Festivals are occasions which bring happiness at all levels i.e. social, mental and spiritual. Apart from personal happiness and happiness at family & social levels, festivals have economic as well as political influences. In cities, we get to know our neighbours at the time of festivals. Festivals are centres of social development. Cohesive force of festivals has been used by political parties to win over people.
India is a land of festivals and celebrations. Most of the Indian festivals have religious origin. It helps in preserving religious practices and cultural heritage.
There is a long list of Hindu festivals which are celebrated in harvest seasons, to refresh various relationships, to offer great reverence to various deities etc. The most important

Hindu festivals are as under:

January – February - Makar Sankranti [also known as Uttarayana (Gujarat), Lohri (Punjab) Pedda Panduga (Andhra Pradesh), Ellu Birodhu (Karnataka), Magh Bihu (Assam), Pongal (January), Makar Sankranti (in North, East & west parts)] and Vasant Panchami.
February - March – Maha Shivratri
March - April – Holi, Gudi Padva [{ also known as Gudi Padwa (Maharashtra), Amvatsar Padvo (Konkan & Goa), Yugadi (Karnataka), Ugadi (Andhra Pradesh & Telangana), Navreh or Navreh (amongst Kashmiri Pandits) and Cheti Chand (among the Sindhi people), Sajibu Nongma Panba Cheiraoba (in the North-East state of Manipur), Thapna (Rajasthan)], Vasanta Navratri, Sri Ram Navami, Hanuman Jayanti, Vaisakhi {also known as Puthandu (Tamil Nadu), Vishu (Kerala), Maha Vishuva Sankranti (Odisha), Naba Barsha or Pohela Boishakh (West Bengal), Rongali Bihu (Assam), Jur Shital (Bihar), Bikhu or Bikhauti (Uttrakhand), Baisakhi (Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab and others)}
July – Guru Purnima.
August - September – Haryali Teej, Raksha Bandhan/Rakhi, Sri Krishna Janamashtmi, Ganesh Chaturdhi and Vishwakarma puja
September – October – Pitra paksha/Mahalaya, Sharda Navratri/Durga Puja, Dusshera/Vijay Dashmi,
October – November – Karva Chauth, Deepavali (Diwali), Bhai Dooj [also known as Bhau Beej (in the Goa, Maharashtra and Karnataka), Bhai Tika (in Nepal), Bhathru Dwithiya, Bhau-deej, Bhai Phota (in Bengal), and Ningol Chakuba (in Manipur)],

Personal happiness
Festivals break monotony of routine life and elevate the mood & positivity thereby reducing the negativity. Festivals act as stress buster. We forget our worries and sway into celebrations of festivals.
Family Bonding
This is an opportunity to reduce conflicts among friends and relatives and renew bond of love and affection. Misunderstandings and gaps are filled with joy of festivals. Giving gifts and sweets are sure way to convey our feelings and develop positive mental framework among our near and dear.
A few festivals are celebrated for special relationships with different family members viz. Haryali Teej (the daughter’s day), Raksha Bandhan and Bhai Dooj (the day of brothers and sisters), Karva Chauth (the day of husband), Pitra paksh (the day to remember forefathers left) and Guru Purnima (the day to pay respect to Guru).

Religious Importance
Indian festivals are auspicious occasions and have its root in religious legends. These connect younger generations to old traditions and religious practices followed. The religious messages include victory of good over evil, birth of great incarnations of almighty, appearance of almighty, etc.
Festival of reverence to various deities are Vasant & Sharad Navratri/Durga Puja, Vijay Dashmi, Deepavali (Diwali), Sri Krishna Janamashtami, Sri Ram Navami, Maha Shivratri, Ganesh Chaturthi, Holi and Diwali.

Spiritual Significance
The different customs and spiritual practices help each individual in spiritual progress. Spiritual practices which are generally adopted include fasting (upavaasa), special prayer, japa, havan/Yajna, meditation, donation/daan, etc. These practices reduce indulgence in sensual pleasure & distractions of mind, improve focus & humility, remind high standards & morals followed by the deities worshipped and bring closeness to almighty & super consciousness.

Social upliftment
Various festivals such as Ganesh Chaturdhi in Maharashtra, Durga Puja in West Bengal, Uttrayan in Gujarat etc. are being organised on community basis in big pandals. These festivals are also been organised in other parts of Bharat particularly in metros.
Celebrating festivals on community basis play a pivotal in social cohesion which brings peace, harmony and happiness. Mass entertainment programmes are being organised to bring feeling of togetherness and uplifting mood of people in general.

Economic Prosperity
Festivals provide necessary impetus to economic growth. Sales are boosted on Diwali, Durga puja, Ganesh Chaturdhi etc. Many festivals fall around harvesting season of agriculture produce. Migratory workers visit to their home villages and collectively contribute in agriculture work and in celebrating festivals together. Festivals of Baisakhi, Onam, Vasant Panchami and Makar Sankranti are harvest festivals in many states.
During festivals, sales and purchases increase manifold having multiplier effect on economy in general and consumer industry in particular. Fairs and sales events are organised in big way on the festivals of Gudi Padwa, Ganesh Chaturdhi, Durga Puja/Navaratri and Diwali.
Hence, festivals increase not only personal happiness but also impact socio-economic-political development.

]]><![CDATA[Bhai Dooj – Festival of Brothers & Sisters]]>Tue, 05 Jun 2018 20:04:27 GMThttps://www.dnaofhinduism.com/festivals/bhai-dooj-festival-of-brothers-sistersWhen Celebrated –
Meaning of Bhai Dooj - "Bhai" means brother and "Dooj" means the second day after the new moon which is a day of its celebration. Hence, it is celebrated on the 2nd day of the Shukla Paksha of Kartika, Hindu calendar month which falls between October and November. The occasion falls on the last day of the five day long celebrations of Diwali

Why Celebrated - Significance
The relationship of brothers and sisters has always been unique in Hindu families. While sisters shower great love and affection on brothers, brothers act as a protector of their sisters. Bhai Dooj is a Hindu festival celebrated just like Raksha Bandhan, a festival of bonding between sisters and brothers.

How & Where Celebrated
On this auspicious day, sisters apply tika / tilak on forehead of their brothers, do aarti and offer sweet and glass of water to eat and drink & pray to God for the well-being and prosperous life and brothers offer gifts to sisters to show their love and care for them. Finally they take blessing by touching the feet of elders.

The festival is celebrated in a large part of India. It is also called as Bhau Beej (in the Goa, Maharashtra and Karnataka), Bhai Tika (in Nepal), Bhathru Dwithiya, Bhau-deej, Bhai Phota (in Bengal), and Ningol Chakuba (in Manipur).

Celebrated since when
According to the Hindu Mythology, it is considered that the God of death, Yamraj, had visited his lovable sister named Yami (Yamuna) at this special day. His sister welcomed him by aarti and tilak ceremony. She offered him a garland and special dishes including sweets to eat. He had returned her sister a unique gift as a symbol of his love and care towards her sister. At that day Yamraj had declared that the brother who would receive tilak and aarti by their sister, he would never be frightened. That’s why the same day is called as the Yama Dwitiya.
According to another story, Hindu Lord Krishna had returned to his sister, Subhadra, after killing the demon king Narakasur where he was welcomed by his sister with tilak, aarti, sweets and flowers.

References:

http://www.indiacelebrating.com/festivals/bhai-dooj/
https://www.fnp.com/article/bhai-dooj

]]><![CDATA[Vijay Dashmi]]>Wed, 09 May 2018 11:12:38 GMThttps://www.dnaofhinduism.com/festivals/vijay-dashmi

When Celebrated
Vijay Dashmi or Dussehra is celebrated on tenth day of Hindu month of Ashwin.

Why Celebrated - Significance

This day marks the triumph of Shree Rama over Demon king Ravana, who abducted Sita, wife of Shree Rama and took to his kingdom of Lanka. After a long battle Shree Rama alongwith his brother Laxman and with the help of Hanuman and Sugreev, rescued Sita. Shree Rama made Vibhishan, the brother of Ravana, king of Lanka.
It is also believed that the Pandavas after long exile took their weapons (hidden in the Shami tree) to fight the Kauravas.
In Eastern India, People celebrate the victory of Goddess Durga over buffalo king Mahishasura. The five day long extravaganza starts on 6th day of Navratri and ends on Vijaya Dashmi. They offer Sindoor, sweets, betel leaves and prasad to the idol of Durga , and later distribute sweets amongst themselves.

How & Where Celebrated

Dussehra is celebrated on pan India basis. In northern and many parts of India, effigies of Ravana with ten heads, his brother Kumbhakarana and son Meghnad stuffed with fire crackers are burnt. A spectacular display of fireworks is done while crowds dance to the chanting of ‘Ramchandra Ki Jai’.
In Eastern India & Maharashtra, it marks end of Durga Puja. The statues of Durga and other deities are carried to river or ocean and immersed in them.
In several states of South India, this festival is dedicated to Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, learning, music & arts. Instruments & tools such as pens, pencils, knives, automobiles, are worshipped on the day to mark fight against injustice, ignorance and evil. Leaves of the shami tree are distributed as symbols of God and goodwill.

References:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vijayadashami

Dussehra is celebrated on pan India basis. In northern and many parts of India, effigies of Ravana with ten heads, his brother Kumbhakarana and son Meghnad stuffed with fire crackers are burnt. A spectacular display of fireworks is done while crowds dance to the chanting of ‘Ramchandra Ki Jai’.
In Eastern India & Maharashtra, it marks end of Durga Puja. The statues of Durga and other deities are carried to river or ocean and immersed in them.
In several states of South India, this festival is dedicated to Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, learning, music & arts. Instruments & tools such as pens, pencils, knives, automobiles, are worshipped on the day to mark fight against injustice, ignorance and evil. Leaves of the shami tree are distributed as symbols of God and goodwill.

References:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vijayadashami

]]><![CDATA[Navaratri – Festival of victory of good over evil]]>Sat, 28 Apr 2018 12:26:39 GMThttps://www.dnaofhinduism.com/festivals/navaratri-festival-of-victory-of-good-over-evil

सर्व मंगलमांगल्ये शिवे सर्वार्थसाधिके शरण्ये त्र्यंबके गौरी नारायणि नमोस्तुते ।

The Navratri festival is celebrated to mark victory of Good over Evil. It is associated with the prominent battle that took place between Ma Durga and demon Mahishasur. Ma Durga is worshipped as goddess of Shakti to seek her blessings for prosperity, success, power, longevity, healthy life etc. Special sadhna is done to earn divine powers. Devi Ma is the primordial energy for creation, preservation and destruction. Ma Durga and its all forms are equipped with weapons and worship of “Ma” signifies that in case demonic power rises, weapons should be used to destroy the demons.

When Celebrated –
Navratri is celebrated mostly twice in a year after harvest seasons in many states:

Vasanta Navaratri - Near spring season – in Shukla paksh of Chaitra month (March – April) commences from first day (Pratipada),
Sharada Navaratri - Near autumn season – in Shukla paksh of Ashwin month (September – October) commences from first day (Pratipada)

Other two Navaratris are observed regionally in Magh (January – February) and Ashada (June – July).

Scientific significance:
Navratri has not only religious importance but also spiritual & other significances. Due to rotation of earth, sun crosses the plane of the earth equator in March & September and changes the directions of sun’s rays falling on earth. This phenomenon brings change in the seasons (summer to autumn and winter to spring). The Navratri festival in Chaitra and Ashwin months coincide with these two junctions of seasons. The change of seasons brings climatic changes and changes in energy levels in the human bodies. Further, the climatic changes increase influx of bacteria and other germs. Fasting, Yogic procedures, observance of discipline for nine days, sadhna, japa etc. purify the body-mind and enhances fighting power of the body against the microbial infections. In addition, the celebrations marked by music, dance and drama etc., during Navratri which elevate the positive energy levels among people.

Spiritual significance:
Traditional worship practices include installing beautiful statues of Mahishasur Mardani, setting up of Kalash, chanting of bells, blowing of conch, and lighting of lamps for nine days uninterruptedly. Special form of Ma Durga murti and various practices of worship have special significance.

Installing of revered Ma Durga murti (statute) – Ma Durga is sitting on lion, having ten hands duly equipped with various weapons viz. conch, discuss, lotus, sword, bow with arrow, trishul, mace, thunderbolt, snake and club or axe, indicating her as saviour of devotees from all ten directions. The weapons are to cut the evil tendencies.
1. Lion is indication of nature. It also symbolizes unlimited power.
2. Sudarshan chakra (Discuss) means Suva-darshan (to introspect & destroy evil tendencies of self). It signifies to destroy evil and produce an environment conducive to the growth of righteousness.
3. Trishul (Trident) is formed of one long rod and three small rods. The long rod is to develop strong will-power and three small rods are to kill the evil tendencies by the three modes viz. action, thought and speech. It also symbolizes three attributes - Satva, Rajas and Tamas and she is remover of all the three types of miseries - physical, mental and spiritual.
4. Shankh (Conch) – Sound of Shankh produces the divine Om sound. It unites the worshippers with divine power and unifies mind, speech and actions with it.
5. Sward symbolizes the weapon to cut evil tendencies by wisdom.
Bow & arrow symbolizes to keep one target i.e. to be liberated and to work in life keeping this target in mind. The bow and arrow also symbolizes energy while the bow represents potential energy, the arrow represents the kinetic energy.
1. Mace is to fight with five defects.
2. Thunderbolt signifies firmness in convictions.
3. Snake symbolizes consciousness and the masculine energy of Shiva.
4. Club or axe - Both symbolise the powers of Vishwakarma, and have the power to destroy as well as create.
5. Lotus signifies to live in life as lotus stays pure even in sludge. Lotus stands for the continuous evolution of the spiritual quality of devotees amidst the worldly mud of lust and greed.
Setting of Kalash – it signifies the storage of wisdom.
Lighting of lamps uninterruptedly – lighting of lamps do away darkness. By bhajan sandhya, study of scriptures etc. ignite wisdom to illuminate our inner self.
Kanya pujan (worshipping of young girls) – The formless almighty has created maya or prakriti. Brahman is action-less and maya or prakriti is Shakti which is kinetic power. Maya becomes the universe, living beings, and the twenty four cosmic principles. Devi is symbolic representation of the omnipresent cosmic Energy or maya. The whole Creation is permeated by this Energy.The worship of young girls signifies the powers of prakriti such as prosperity, success, intelligence, etc.
The sound of the bells and conch kills germs up-to far-away places.
Navratri puja is done at the night as it is easy to concentrate and chanting of Mantras in a peaceful environment yield auspicious results. The nine-day long worship is aimed at removing the inner enemies viz. lust, anger, greed, attachment, ahamkar (inflated ego), fear, jealousy, hatred, guilt etc.

Religious Significance:
Nav means nine and ratri means night. Hence, Navratri is traditionally being celebrated in night for nine days all over India marked by worship Ma Durga and her various forms. It is unclear how and in which century the festival began. Devi's epithets synonymous with Durga appear in Upanishadic literature, such as Kali in verse 1.2.4 of the Mundaka Upanishad dated to about the 5th century BCE. Surviving manuscripts from the 14th century provide guidelines for Durga puja, while historical records suggest royalty and wealthy families were sponsoring major Durga Puja public festivities since at least the 16th century.

The festivities extend beyond goddess Durga. Various other goddesses such as Saraswati, Lakshmi and gods such as Ganesha, Kartikeya, Shiva and Krishna are regionally revered. In Vasanta Navaratri, Ramayana recital is done for nine days followed by Rama Navami to remember the birth of Rama. In Sharadai Navratri, re-enactment of dance drama on life of Rama, based on Sri Ramcharitramanas is staged for nine days followed by Dussehra, where the effigies of Demon Ravana, Kumbhakarna, and Meghanada are burnt to celebrate the victory of good over evil forces.

History:
Legend has it that the demon king Mahishasura was granted immortality by Lord Brahma, with the condition being that he could only be defeated by a woman. Mahishasura attacked all the three spheres, Trilok, which includes Earth, Heaven and Hell, and nobody could defeat him. Then Brahma ji, Vishnu ji, Shiva ji and other deities combined their powers to create Goddess Durga.

During 15-day long battle between Mahishasura and Goddes Durga, the demon king kept changing his form to confuse the goddess. When, Mahishasura turned into a buffalo, Goddess Durga slayed him with her trishul. It was the day of Mahalaya when Mahishasura was killed.

Day-wise worship:

On day 1 (Pratipada): Shailaputri, (lit. Daughuter of mountain), an incarnation of Parvati. She is depicted as riding a Bull, with a Trishul in her right hand and Lotus in left. The color of the day is Red, which depicts action and vigor. During fasting on this day, pure cow ghee is offered to feet of Ma to obtain the blessings of health.
On day 2 (Dwitiya): Brahmcharini, another incarnation of Parvati, is worshiped. In this form, Parvati became Sati. Brahmcharini is worshiped for emancipation or moksha and endowment of peace and prosperity. Depicted as walking bare feet and holding a japamala and kamandalu in her hands, she symbolizes bliss and calm. The color of the day is Royal Blue which depicts calmness-cum-energy. During this day, shakkur (grinded sugar) is offered to feet of Ma to obtain the blessings of long life of all family members.
On day 3 (Tritiya): Chandraghanta, - the name derived from the fact that after marrying Shiva, Parvati adorned her forehead with half-chandra(lit. moon). She is the embodiment of beauty and is also symbolic of bravery, and hence, the color of the day is Yellow. During this day, sweets or gheer is offered to feet of Ma to obtain the blessings of doing away miseries.
On day 4 (Chaturthi) : Kushmunda, believed to be the creative power of universe, Kushmunda is associated to the endowment of vegetation on earth and hence, the color of the day is Green. She is depicted as having eight arms and sits on a Lion. During fasting on this day, mallpua (a kind of sweet) is offered to feet of Ma to obtain the blessings of intelligence.
On day 5 (Panchami) : Skandmata, is the mother of Skand(or Kartikeya). The color Grey is symbolic of the transforming strength of a mother when her child is confronted to dangers. She is depicted riding a ferocious Lion, having four arms, and holding her baby. During fasting on this day, bananas are offered to feet of Ma to obtain the blessings of healthy body.
On day 6 (Sashti) : Katyayani, born to a sage, Katya, she is an incarnation of Durga and is shown to exhibit courage which is symbolized by the color Orange. Known as the warrior goddess, she is considered one of the most violent forms of Goddess Parvati. In this avatar, the Devi rides a lion and has four hands. During fasting on this day, honey is offered to feet of Ma to obtain the blessings of attractive power.
On day 7 (Saptmi): Kalratri, is considered the most ferocious form of Goddess Durga. It is believed that Parvati removed her fair skin to kill the demons Shumbh & Nisumbh. The color of the day is White. During fasting on this day, jaggery is offered to feet of Ma to obtain the blessings to do away sudden misery.
On day 8 (Ashtmi) : Mahagauri, symbolizes intelligence and peace. The colour associated to this day is Pink which depicts optimism. During fasting on this day, coconut is offered to feet of Ma to obtain the blessings of children.
On Day 9 (Navmi): Sidhidatri, is believed to possess and bestows all type of Siddhis. She has four hands, sitting on lotus. During fasting on this day, back sesame is offered to feet of Ma to obtain the blessings to avoid fears.

Modes of celebrations in various parts of Bharat:
The temples are decorated and illuminated during the period. Special puja, havan, arti and kirtans are done. During Durga puja there are performances of music, dance and plays, making the cultural event. Durga Puja or Durgotsav is celebrated pan India.

In Eastern & North eastern Part of India, big Pandals are erected with major deities such as Durga, Lakshmi, Saraswati, Ganesha and Kartikeya. On tenth day, idols are taken in procession, married women apply sindoor to idol and bid her farewell and immersed in pond, river or sea.
In Gujarat, woman prepares earthen pots with various pulses and then worships the sprouts for nine days. Every evening people gather in open space in ethnic colourful dresses and dance garba in big circles to the tune of folk songs and rhythmic clapping of the hands. In the centre of the circle a pot with holes and burning lamp called Garba or Garba Deep is placed. Younger generation participants dance with dandiyas, a pair of sticks.
In south India, houses display Navaratri Kolu. Colorful dolls are placed in rows on decorated tiers. Women and children go visiting to pay respect to each other kolu.

In North India, people worship nine forms of Durga and give respect, special dishes and gifts to young girls (6 girls and one boy below 11 years) called as Kanya Langra on ashtmi or navami. Prasad of black channa and puri are prepared.

The temples are decorated and illuminated during the period. Special puja, havan, arti and kirtans are done. During Durga puja there are performances of music, dance and plays, making the a cultural event.

Durga Puja or Durgotsav is celebrated pan India.
1. In Eastern & North eastern Part of India, big Pandals are erected with major deities such as Durga, Lakshmi, Saraswati, Ganesha and Kartikeya. On tenth day, idols are taken in procession, married women apply sindoor to idol and bid her farewell and immersed in pond, river or sea.
2. In Gujarat, woman prepares earthen pots with various pulses and then worships the sprouts for nine days. Every evening people gather in open space in ethnic colourful dresses and dance garba in big circles to the tune of folk songs and rhythmic clapping of the hands. In the centre of the circle a pot with holes and burning lamp called Garba or Garba Deep is placed. Younger generation participants dance with dandiyas, a pair of sticks.
3. In south India, houses display Navaratri Kolu. Colourful dolls are placed in rows on decorated tiers. Women and children go visiting to pay respect to each other kolu.
4. In North India, people worship nine forms of Durga and give respect, special dishes and gifts to young girls (6 girls and one boy below 11 years) called as Kanya Langra on ashtmi or navami. Prasad of black channa and puri are prepared.
Rama lila and Rama Navami are widely celebrated in Northern Part of India.

Celebrated since when
The festival is an old tradition of Hinduism, though it is unclear how and in which century the festival began. Surviving manuscripts from the 14th century provide guidelines for Durga puja, while historical records suggest royalty and wealthy families were sponsoring major Durga Puja public festivities since at least the 16th century.

References:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Navaratri
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durga_Puja

]]><![CDATA[Ganesh Chaturthi – Festival for wisdom & Prosperity]]>Sat, 21 Apr 2018 10:14:44 GMThttps://www.dnaofhinduism.com/festivals/ganesh-chaturthi-festival-for-wisdom-prosperity

When Celebrated
Ganesh or Vinayak Chaturthi celebration starts on the fourth day of Hindu calendar month Bhadrapada (August or September).

Why Celebrated - Significance
Ganesh Chaturthi is celebrated as birthday of revered Ganesha, the god of wisdom & prosperity. It marks new beginning and remover of obstacles.

How & Where Celebrated

The festival is celebrated all over India, but in Maharashtra, Goa, Tangana, Gujarat & Chhattisgarh, it is celebrated in very big way as public social & religious function.
An idol of Ganesh is brought to home or installed in elaborately decorated Pandals, with much fanfare and worshipped daily by offering modaks, ladoos and panchamrit & arti.
The idol after one & a half days to maximum ten days is taken to nearby pond, lake or sea and immersed.

Celebrated since when

As per historical records, Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations were initiated in Maharashtra by Chatrapati Shivaji, the great Maratha ruler, to promote culture and nationalism.
Similar celebrations were done during Peshwa times. It is believed that Lord Ganapati was the family deity of the Peshwas. After the end of Peshwa rule, Ganesh Chaturthi remained a family affair in Maharashtra from the period of 1818 to 1892.

In 1892, Lokmanaya Bal Gangadhar Tilak made it into a community affair, where rich and poor could worship alike. It is called Ganeshutsav. Big pandals are
As per mythology, Goddess Parvati created Ganesha out of dirt off her body while having a bath and set him to guard her door while she finishes her bath. Shiva who has gone out, returned at that time, but as Ganesha didn't know of him, stopped him from entering. An angry Shiva severed the head of Ganesha after a combat between the two. Parvati was enraged and Shiva promised Ganesha will live again. The devas who went in search of a head facing north of a dead person could manage only the head of an elephant. Shiva fixed the elephant's head on the child and brought him back to life.

References:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganesh_Chaturthi

As per historical records, Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations were initiated in Maharashtra by Chatrapati Shivaji, the great Maratha ruler, to promote culture and nationalism.
Similar celebrations were done during Peshwa times. It is believed that Lord Ganapati was the family deity of the Peshwas. After the end of Peshwa rule, Ganesh Chaturthi remained a family affair in Maharashtra from the period of 1818 to 1892.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ganesh_Chaturthi

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