Hindu Calendar: Hanuman Jayanti March 29 (and/or 30th), 2010

Namaste Hari Om,

Today marks a wonderful and auspicious day in the Hindu Calendar! Hanuman Jayanti, or the birth of Hanuman on earth (note its not birth in the normal sense but taking of a physical form on earth).

Hanuman is personified as the perfect bhakt (devotee) - his devotion to Shri SitaRam and Lahksman is unwavering and forever strong. There are many festivities that take place on this date, some celebrate the saturday before, Monday and Tuesday. There are also many mandirs around the world that are dedicated to Hanuman - from Trinidad (pictured above bathing with milk) to the US and Haryana, India (went to this Mandir in India..) and even the blessed Ayodhya! People pray to Hanuman for protection as noted in the Hanuman Chalisa, but also for great bhakti! We should always increase our devotion to the lord as we will find great happiness in this path, and Hanuman Ji is always happy as every breath is dedicated with, "Shri Ram"! The power of Hanuman Ji has no bounds, just like his Bhakti Hanumans strength knows no bounds when he praises the Name of Shri Ram.

There are many side stories associated with Hanuman...I think my favorite ones are when his coming on earth was predicted and talked about before his Jayanti.. I heard some beautiful words from a nice pundit during a ShivRatri satsang in my local mandir. He explained a story about Ravana's meeting at Mount Kailash. Ravana was walking to Mount Kailash and came across Nandi (Lord Shiva's Vehicle...Note: Nandi also taught Hanuman the knowledge of the Vedas and how to be humble ..). When Ravana saw Nandi, he deeply insulted the pure and humble bull by saying, "You are ugly and have the Face of A Monkey!", when Nandi heard this, deep sorrow came beyond measure..Nandi was so afflicted and pained by this comment, as this was Ravana's goal to instill hurt and pain into people as it increased his pride... But as Nandi weped and was afflicted by the laughter and hatred, Lord Shiva felt the pain of Nandi. As a pure and true devotee of Lord Shiva is always dear to his heart. Lord Shiva looked at Ravana and said, "Oh Ravana, a time will come when a Monkey will come and bring that same sorrow that Nandi is feeling to you". Ravana of course did not listen as his ego surpressed a fortelling of the truth. Long behold, that day came as Hanuman burnt the city of Lanka - And yes these photos can be seen of Lanka till this date. I will try to post more side stories, as these help us to understand things with love. Jai Hanuman!

- SimpleHindhuBhai

PS: Please see the wonderful article from Hindu-Blog.com on Hanuman Jayanti..
Hanuman Chalisa: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fKKSurfd6Ys

Source: http://www.hindu-blog.com/2009/03/hanuman-jayanthi-2009.html
Hanuman Jayanti is the birthday of Lord Hanuman and it is observed on the full moon (Purnima) day in the Hindu month of Chaitra (March – April) as per traditional lunar Hindu calendar. In 2010, the date of Hanuman Jayanthi is March 30. In 2010 it is doubly auspicious as the Jayanti day falls on Tuesday or Mangalwar which is dedicated to Hanuman. Lord Hanuman is also known as Bajrang Bali and Anjaneya and is one of the most popular gods in Hinduism. He is a Chiranjeevi – one blessed with immortality.


In Andhra Pradesh, Hanumant Jayanti is observed after a 41-day Deeksha which begins on Chaitra Purnima and in 2010 the date is June 7. In Tamil Nadu, Hanuman Jayanti is observed during the Margazhi month (December – January). Another popular day dedicated to Hanuman is the Hanumantha Vrata observed in Margashirsh month (November - December) in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.

Jai Bajrang Bali

Lord Hanuman symbolizes strength and unparalleled devotion and selfless service. He is the greatest devotee of Lord Ram and he is a Brahmachari (celibate) and humility is his hallmark.

The greatness of Hanuman is explained by Lord Ram in the Ramayan

Lord Ram said to Hanuman, ‘I am greatly indebted to you, O mighty hero. You did marvelous, superhuman deeds. You do not want anything in return. … you have not asked for anything at any time. You threw away the precious garland of pearls given to you by Sita.

How can I repay my debt of gratitude to you? I will always remain deeply indebted to you.

I give you the boon of everlasting life. All will honor and worship you like myself. Your idol will be placed at the door of my temple and you will be worshipped and honored first. Whenever my stories are recited or glories sung, your glory will be sung before mine. You will be able to do anything, even that which I will not be able to!’

Devotees chant Hanuman Chalisa and Hanuman Ashtak on the day. Most Hindu devotees also fast on the day or on the previous day. Hanuman Jayanthi Vrat is observed on March 29, 2010 in some regions.

Hanuman Jayanti observed during Different dates in a year

It must be noted here that Hanuman Jayanti is observed during different period by different communities. In Andhra Pradesh, Hanuman Jayanti is observed as a 41-day Hanuman Jayanti Deeksha and it begins on Chaitra Purnima.

In Tamil Nadu, Hanuman Jayanti is observed during the Margazhi month (December – January).
In some regions, Hanuman Jayanti is observed on the day before Diwali.

The Relevance of Hanuman Today

In today’s society of convulsions, inertia, selfishness, moral and social, spiritual and ethical decay, Lord Hanuman has become the standard bearer and the embodiment of courage, self-control, power, selfless service, bravery, integrity and humility.
Source: http://www.hindu-blog.com/2009/03/hanuman-jayanthi-2009.html

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Quote from http://www.saibaba.ws/articles1/pearlsramayana.htm

HANUMAN AND DHARMA
In Ramayana, we have the story of Hanuman. He sets an example to all of us by the manner in which he conducts himself. When he comes close to Rama, he shows extreme humility and respect. What is the reason for Hanuman exhibiting such humility in the presence of Rama? The reason for such behaviour lies in the description of ‘Ramo Vigrahavan Dharmaha’ of Rama. Rama is the embodiment of dharma and therefore in the presence of dharma, he shows humility. The same Hanuman, when he went to Lanka, had put himself on a pedestal higher than that of Ravana, because Ravana asked him to squat on the floor like a monkey. The reason for this is that while in the presence of dharma, Hanuman is humble and obedient but in the presence of a boasting king he would not show any humility. In the same manner, you should bow down to dharma, and show respect to teachers and elders. On the other hand you should show courage and prudence when placed in a predicament which is adharmic. Even then, you should not take to anarchic methods.

JAI HANUMAN!!!

Hindu Calendar Wed March 24, 2010: Sri Ram Navami - Day dedicated to Lord Ram

Namaste, Hari Om,

Sisters and brothers, HAPPY SRI RAM NAVAMI TO YOU ALL! May Shri SitaRama's blessings be with us all. May we all have the power to keep fast on this important and auspicious day and remember the all powerful name of Shri SitaRam.

As I read the Srimad Devi Bhagavatam, I came across the occasion of Sri Ram Navami and how performing vrat (fasting) and prayers to Lord Rama can help one ease the negative karmas (negative happenings that come to us based upon past bad actions created by ourselves). This special day can be celebrated by listening to Sri Ram bhajans, chanting the name of Shri Ram, repeating Mantras, and reading the great and lovely Ramayana. But if your time does not permit this, chanting Shri Ram..Shri Ram...Shri Ram, will be very helpful to us as well as we walk the path of spirituality. Remember always try your best :) and when we think we are doing are best, go up another level... Jai Shri SitaRam!

-SimpleHinduBhai,

PS: Please enjoy this great article that talks about the many glories of Shri Ram below;



http://www.hindujagruti.org/hinduism/festivals/ram-navami/

Introduction

Sriram Navami is celebrated to proclaim the birth of Lord Sriram, the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The nineth day (Navami) in the bright fortnight of the Hindu lunar month of Chaitra is referred to as Ram Navami. On this day, when the five planets and the sun, etc. were in the first house of cancer at noon along with the lunar asterism Pushya, Ramachandra was born in Ayodhya. Several temples of Lord Rama celebrate this festival for nine days beginning from the first day (pratipada) of Chaitra. It is celebrated by periodic readings (parayans) of the Ramayan, organising spiritual discourses (kirtans) and beautifully embellishing Lord Rama's idol. On the ninth day, in the afternoon, a spiritual discourse on Lord Rama's birth is held. At noon, a coconut draped in a hooded cloak is placed in a cradle and the cradle is rocked. Devotees shower a red, fragrant powder (gulal) and flowers onto it.
Celebrations of Ram Navami start on Gudi padwa, the first day of Chaitra; and continue for 9 days. During this period, devotees do parayans of Ramayan, recite the Ramaraksha stotra, sing bhajans-kirtans in His praise and chant His name....Click the following link to continue reading: http://www.hindujagruti.org/hinduism/festivals/ram-navami/


Bhajans of Lord Rama;

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tGAdZ0Yv768  - Anil Hanslas, "Aaj Ram Mere Ghar Aaye", Today Ram has come to my Home......Very meaningful and touching, my favorite bhajan!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jP-UxA4JP50 - Anil Hanslas, Hey Ram Tum bare Dayalu Ho, - you are very compassionate.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oDs_NTuY-gM&feature=related - Chanting the name of Lord Ram!
(part 1 of 3)....Shri Prembhikshuji Maharaj Prerit Sankirtan Mandir Rajkot (Gujrat,India) Ram-dhun voice by Ashok Bhayani add by Bharat C Sanghavi  

Hindu American Foundation: Holi - Festival of Colors - Finds Place in U.S. Congress

Namaste, Hari Om,

http://www.hafsite.org/HoliCongress

Found this article on Hindu American Foundation (HAF) - this group does allot for Hindus and other religions as well. They preach the message of unity within the Hindu world and outside but from a global and  American point of view.

Having a group like this in the US is really helpful as many people that come to the US are either first or second generation families- who are not 100% adapt to the political and media systems of the US. Having a group who can impact the media and the government is really helpful! Many thanks to HAF, they have done so much for Hindus in the United States! Click the link to see their achivements - http://www.hafsite.org/Achievements2009

You can even see the congressional transcript on the site!

SimpleHinduBhai-


Article (Source: http://www.hafsite.org/HoliCongress)

Sri Mad Devi Bhagvatam (Bhagavata Purana): The Ramayana and Navratri Link

Namaste, Hari Om,


This is a nice post, I think the timing is perfect since we are in the first Navratri in the year. At home we have a Sri Mad Devi Bhavatam, and reading verses from it during this period is very beneficial for those walking the spiritual path. Reading the below story will also help us in our religious path - we should note its strongly encouraged to read the Maha Puranas such as the Shiv Puran, and the Bhagavata Purana (And more). These great books contain side stories that build a great understanding and offer answers to many things that happen that we dont normally have answers for. I always believe our minds should be ready, as well as we should be under the guidance of a spiritual teacher (or in contact with a pundit/swami etc..)

Below talks about Shri Rama Ji after he finds out his beloved Sita Devi is missing. I have read other books and studies on this part of the Ramayana. The events were consistent in that Rama Ji felt sorrow in the separation of his dear Sita Devi. I read in a previous book that Rama Ji was so disheartened he yielded the most powerful arrow and was about to let it go on the universe, as all the Gods were terrified, they sent Narada down to calm Shri Ram Ji down. Now I never heard the full details of the discussion until i read this in the Sri Mad Devi Bhagavatam. There are many philosophical points to extract from the below but we can save that for another day. In this great time of Navratri, kindly read with joy...

Here is a link to the Srimad Devi Bhagavatam and other great info related to the Maha Purana.

This great piece of history comes from the Srimad Devi Bhagavatam (translated with his greatness, Swami Vijnanananda, I hope you enjoy reading it:

-SimpleHinduBhai

PS: Please forgive me if I have made any spelling errors, typing is not great, but spell check is : )

*Note: For those who are not very familiar with the part where Sita Mata is taken away, see this nice video;
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kD-ECKWA7Vo  - Ramayana For Kids, Sita is Abducted by Ravana.

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Chapter XXX, page 244-248

[this takes place shortly after Rama returns to the place where they were staying in the forest, small hut like home. They have come to learn that Sita Devi was missing...Shri Rama Ji is in sorrow...]

Vyasa Said: - O king! Rama and Lahksmana, discussing thus, remained silent; when the Risi Narada appeared there from the sky above, singing the Rathantara Sama Veda hymns in tune and musical gamut with his renowned lute. (1-2)

Ramachandra, of indomitable prowess, on beholding him rose up from his seat and gave him quickly an excellent seat and offerings of water for washing his feet. Then he worshiped the Muni and stood with folded hands. When the Muni ordered him, he took his seat close by Narada. (3-4)

On Ramachandra taking his seat there with lahksmana with a gracious heart, Narada asked him in a sweet tone, "O Descendant of Raghu! why are you being afflicted with sorrows like an ordinary moral? I know that the evil minded Ravana has stolen Sita Devi. I heard while in the heavens that Ravana, the descendant of Pulastya, stole away Janaki [Sita Mata], out of fascination, could not know that would be the cause of his death. O Descendant in the family of Kakutstha! It is for the killing of Ravana that your birth has taken place; and for that purpose Janaki has been stolen now. (5-8)
Note: - The Real Janaki was not stolen; Her shadow form was stolen.

O Raghava! The Devi Janaki, in her previous birth, was the daughter of a Muni, and practiced asceticism. While engaged in her austerities, in her holy hermitage, Ravana came and looking at her, prayed that beautiful woman to become his wife. Hearing this, she gave a good reproach to Ravana, when he perforce caught hold of her hairs. That ascetic woman got very angry, and, considering her body polluted by the devil's contact, resolved to put an end to her life and cursed Ravana, Thus - : "O Villain! I will be born on the surface of earth, not from any womb but simply for your destruction and ruin" Thus saying, she parted with her life." (9-12)

O Tormentor of the foes! Ravana, the king of the Raksasas [evil demons], mistook a garland for the extremely poisonous serpent and has stolen away Sita Devi, the part incarnation of Laksmi, in order to root out his race (13).

"O Kakutstha! When the Devas prayed for the destruction of that wicked insolent Ravana, difficult to be subdued, you are born on this earth, in the family of Aja, as a part incarnate of Hari, beyond birth, old age and death." (14)

"O mighty armed! Have patience; Sita Devi is meditating on you day and night." (15)

Indra himself, the king of the Devas, sends the nectar and the Heavenly Cow's Milk in a pot to her daily; she She subsists on that alone."

O Lord! On drinking the Heavenly Cow's Milk, the lotus eyed Sita Devi is living without any hunger or thirst! I use to see her daily". (16-17)

O descendant of Raghu! I am now telling how that Ravana can be killed. Perform, in this very month of Asvin the vow with devotion. (18)

Fasting for nine nights, the worship of the Bhagavati, and repeating the Mantram silently and performing the Homa ceremony, observing all the rules, will certainly fulfill one's all desires. (19)

O the best in the race of Raghu! You should offer the sacrifice before the Goddess, perform Japam, and home ceremony equivalent to one-tenth of Japam. If you do all this, you will certainly be able to release Sita (20).

In days of yore, Vishnu, Siva and Brahma and the Devas in the Heavens all performed this worship of the Goddess. (21).

Therefore, O Raghava! Every person desiring happiness, specially those that have fallen under great difficulties out to do this auspicious ceremony, without the least hesitation. (22)

O Kakutstha! Visamitra, Bhrigu, Vasistha and Kasyapa all of them did this worship before. When some stole away the wife of Brihaspati, the Guru of the Devas, he, too, by the force of this worship got his wife back. Therefore O king! Dost thou also celebrate the puja for the destruction of Ravana." (23-24)

O high minded one! This vow was practiced before by Indra for the destruction of Vritra, by Siva for killing the demon Trinuraa, by Narayana for the killing of the demons Madhu and Kaitava; so you should also firmly resolve to perform duly this vow with your whole heart. (25-26).

Rama replied; "O ocean of knowledge! Who is that Devi? What is her influence; whence has she sprung? What is her name? and how is that vow to be duly observed? Kindly describe all these to me in detail." (27)

Narada answered: - "Listen, O Raghava! That Goddess is eternal and ever constant primordial force. If you worship her, all your difficulties will be removed and all your desired will be fulfilled" (28)
"She is the source of Brahma, Vishnu and others and all of these living beings. Without her force, no body would be able to even move their limbs". (29)

That supreme auspicious Goddess is the preserving energy of Visnu, is the creative power of Brahma, and is the destroying force of Siva". (30).

Whatever there exists in this infinite Universe, whether Temporal or Eternal, She is the Underlying Force of all; how, then, can she have an origin! (31)

Her origin is not Brahma, Vishnu, Mahesa, Sun, Indra or the other Devas, not this Earth nor this upholder of the earth; she is devoid of any qualities, the giver of salvation of all, the full Prakriti [nature]. In the time of the final dissolution of this universe, she livers with the Supreme Purusha".

She is also Saguna, full of qualities and is the creatrix of Brahma, Visnu, and Mahesa, and has empowered them, in every way, to create the three Lokas. (34)

She is the Supreme Knowledge, existing before the Vedas, and the Originator of the Vedas. The individual souls, knowing her Nature, become able to free themselves from the bondage's of the world (35).

She is known by endless names. The Brahma and the other Devas might choose to call her according to their actions and qualities. I am unable to describe those names. (36) [unable too because Devi Mata has endless names]

O descendant in the race of Raghu! Her endless names are formed by the various combination of the various vowels and consonants from the letter "A" to the letter "Ksa". (37)

Rama Said: "O best of the Munis! Describe briefly all the rules and regulations as to how that vow and worshiping to be performed. With my heart, full of devotion and faith, I will worship the Goddess today" (38)

Narada said: "O Raghava! On a level plot of ground, prepare an altar. Place the Goddess there and fast for nine days. (39) "O King! I will be your priest and I will, with great energy, carry out this yajna to fulfill the work of the Gods." (40)

Vyasa said: - Then the powerful Bhagavan Hari, hearing all from the Muni, believed them to be true; and, on the approach of the month of Asvin, prepared the altar on top of a hill and placed the Auspicious Goddess, the World Mother and, observing all the rules performed the Vow and worshiped the Goddess.(41-42)

Fasting for nine days, Rama celebrated the vow and duly offered sacrifices, performed the worship and Homa ceremonies. (43)

When, on the grand night of the Eighth lunar day, the two brothers completed the vow as told by Narada, the Supreme Bhagavati was pleased with the worship and appeared before them, mounted on a lion, and remaining there on the mountain top, addressed Rama and Lahksmana, in a sweet grave tone, like the rumbling of a rain cloud, thus: "Rama, I am satisfied with your worship; ask from me what you desire." (44-46)

"Rama! you are sent by the gods for the destruction of Ravana and are born as a part incarnate of Narayana, in the pure and stainless family of Manu". (47)

It is you that, in ancient times, incarnated as a fish for serving the purpose of the Devas and preserved the Vedas by killing the terrible Rakasas for the welfare of the Universe. (48)

It is you that incarnated as a tortoise and held aloft the Mandara mountain, churned the ocean and nourished the Devas. (49)
O Rama! It is you that incarnated, in days of yore, as a boar and helf aloft on your teeth this earth. It is you that assumed the form of a Man-lion and preserved Prahlada, by tearing asunder the body of Hiranya Kashipu, by your sharp nails. (50-51)

"O Decent of Raghu! It is you that assumed, in ancient times, the form of a dwarf and served the purpose of the Devas, by deceitfully cheating Bali, the younger brother of Indra" (52)

"O son of Kaushalya! You are incarnated as the son of Jamadagni in the Brahmin family, extirpated the line of Ksattriya, kings and gave over this whole earth to Bhagavan Kasyapa Risi." (53)

"So you are no born as the son of Dasharatha, in the stainless race of Kakutstha, at the request of the Devas, harassed by Ravana. (54)

Those powerful moneys, born as Deva incarnates, all endowed with great power by Me, will help you. Your younger brother Kahksmana, is the incarnate of Shesa serpent; this indomitable man will kill undoubtedly Indragit, the son of Ravana. (55-56).

You will kill Ravana; then you would worship Me, with great devotion, in the vernal season and then enjoy your kingdom according to your liking. (57)
O best of the Raghus! For full eleven thousand years you will reign on this earth; and after that re-enter your heavenly abode. (58)

Vyasa said: - O King! Thus saying, the Devi disappeared. Rama Chandra became very glad and, completing that most auspicious ceremony, performed the Bejoya Puja on the tenth day and gave lots of presents to Narada and made him go towards the ocean. (59)

O King! Thus stimulated by the supreme Energy, the Highest Goddess brought front to front, Ramachandra, the husband of Kamala, went to the shores of the ocean, accompanied by Lahksmana and the monkeys. Then he built the bridge across the ocean and killed Ravana, the enemy of the gods. His unparalleled fame spread every where throughout the three Lokas. (61).

He who hears with devotion this excellent account of the Devi, will get the greatest happiness in this world, and, in the end, will get the final beatitude. There is no doubt in this. (62)

O King! There are extant many other Puranas, but none is equal to this Sri Mad Devi Bhagavatam. Know, this is my firm belief. (63)

Here ends the thirteinth chapter on the narration of the Navaratra ceremony by Narada and the performance of that Rama Chandra in the 3rd Adhaya in Sri Mad Devi Bhagavatam of 18,000 verses by Maharishi Veda Vyasa. Here ends the Third Book.

The Third Skandha completed.

________________________________

Jai Bhagavati Mata Ki Jai!

Hindu-Blog.com: How to Perform or Observe Navratri Vrat?

Namaste Hari Om,

Great article below from Hindu-Blog.com, talks about Navratri Puja and fasting. Note, fast to your best ability, but do not over extend or push yourself to far. Always remeber to remain cool and calm, this way you can save your energy when fasting to continue the fast. Always think positive and picture yourself walking the spiritual path. Article below:


How to Perform or Observe Navratri Vrat? (<- click the title to see the article, pasted below as well).

Navratri Vrat or Navaratri Vratam is an important fast observed by Hindus during Ashvin (September – October). It is believed that those devotees who perform Navratri fasting will find happiness on earth and will receive ‘moksha.’ Legend has it that, how to observe the Navarathri Vrat was once narrated by Goddess Durga to one of her ardent devotee. The Vratam is observed by both men and women and Navratri mantra is repeated during the period. [*Note: Above is talking about the second Navratri, but thought the article was good as we are in the 1st one]


Navratri Fast

The Navratri fast is observed from the first day to the ninth day of Ashvin month. People take bath in the morning and evening during this period and some even drink water only after the ritual bath in the morning.

Most devotees take only a single meal during the day. Non-vegetarian food is totally avoided. Some people confine to milk and fruits during the nine days.

Some devotees only observe fast during three days i.e., first fast during any one of the first three days and second fast during any one of the next three and last in any one of final three days.

How to perform the rituals?

A Kalash is prepared at home and the water is changed daily for nine days. The kalash is placed on grains on raised platform or in the Puja room. Goddess Durga is worshipped during the first three days, Goddess Lakshmi for the next three days, and Goddess Saraswathi during the last three days. (Some people make clay figures of the Goddesses during the period).

Each day fresh flowers and fruits are offered to the Goddess. Arati is performed and bhajans are recited.

The Mantras and Bhajans to be recited

Devi Mahatmya (Durga Saptashati) and Sri Lalita Sahasranama are recited during the period. The important Navratri mantra is ‘Aaim hreem kleem chamundayai vichche.’

Some devotees conduct special homas and pujas during the period.

On the ninth day, all books, pen and whatever implements that a person uses for his/her livelihood is worshipped and is not touched on the day.

On the tenth day, that is the Vijayadashami day in South India, especially in Kerala, young children are initiated into the world of learning.

There are no hard and fast rules for any fasting in Hindu religion. There is always scope for flexibility. Some people just abstain from non-vegetarian food during the period. Some people just visit temples all the nine days. Some people read Bhagavad Gita or other holy books during the period.

Jai Durge Mata!

Vasanta Navaratri March 16-24th, 2010 - HAPPY NAVRATRI!!

Namaste, Hari OM,

SimpleHinduBhai: This important time in the Hindu calendar marks a wonderful time to pray to the mother aspect in Hinduism. A mother will always love her children, even if they forget her and only remember her in times of trouble - she will always be there. A mother wants only goodness for her children, praying to her for her divine blessings and grace will help us go through our karmas with ease. A mothers grace and love is beyond measure as its power can move mountains (figure of speech to display the power). Even the mothers of this world we live in (note; mothers/fathers are our first Gurus), are very powerful. We should always obey and serve our parents for their devine blessings are great - many scriptures state that we should treat our parents higher than God - this makes sense as the world would be in harmony if we all did this. Furthermore, one must note that in Hinduism, the Devi or mother aspect is very important as we can find this aspect in a wife as well. A home with a loving woman will always have prosperity as the brings happiness.

We should also take this time as its very good for our spiritual journey, to observe vrat (fasting). SwahaInternational.org posted a great article on fasting here. Its refrencing the Nau-ratri festival, but the lesson of fasting is of course for any holiday. I will discuss fasting in another post as its observed by many, as some fast on different levels for various things - but its present in every culture. In the next few days I will try to post topics related to the Devi aspect, Mata (Universal Mother). For now, please enjoy the articles below;

Below Article from a fellow Hindu Bhai (Blog) at About.com.
What's the Significance of Navratri?


During Navaratri, we invoke the energy aspect of God in the form of the universal mother, commonly referred to as "Durga," which literally means the remover of miseries of life. She is also referred to as "Devi" (goddess) or "Shakti" (energy or power). It is this energy, which helps God to proceed with the work of creation, preservation and destruction. In other words, you can say that God is motionless, absolutely changeless, and the Divine Mother Durga, does everything. Truly speaking, our worship of Shakti re-confirms the scientific theory that energy is imperishable. It cannot be created or destroyed. It is always there.
 
Why Worship the Mother Goddess?


We think this energy is only a form of the Divine Mother, who is the mother of all, and all of us are her children. "Why mother; why not father?", you may ask. Let me just say that we believe that God's glory, his cosmic energy, his greatness and supremacy can best be depicted as the motherhood aspect of God. Just as a child finds all these qualities in his or her mother, similarly, all of us look upon God as mother. In fact, Hinduism is the only religion in the world, which gives so much importance to the mother aspect of God because we believe that mother is the creative aspect of the absolute.
 
Why Twice a Year?


Every year the beginning of summer and the beginning of winter are two very important junctures of climatic change and solar influence. These two junctions have been chosen as the sacred opportunities for the worship of the divine power because:

(1) We believe that it is the divine power that provides energy for the earth to move around the sun, causing the changes in the outer nature and that this divine power must be thanked for maintaining the correct balance of the universe.

(2) Due to the changes in the nature, the bodies and minds of people undergo a considerable change, and hence, we worship the divine power to bestow upon all of us enough potent powers to maintain our physical and mental balance.

Why Nine Nights & Days?

Navaratri is divided into sets of three days to adore different aspects of the supreme goddess. On the first three days, the Mother is invoked as powerful force called Durga in order to destroy all our impurities, vices and defects. The next three days, the Mother is adored as a giver of spiritual wealth, Lakshmi, who is considered to have the power of bestowing on her devotees the inexhaustible wealth. The final set of three days is spent in worshipping the mother as the goddess of wisdom, Saraswati. In order have all-round success in life, we need the blessings of all three aspects of the divine mother; hence, the worship for nine nights.

Why Do You Need the Power?

Thus, I suggest you join your parents in worshipping "Ma Durga" during the Navaratri. She will bestow on you wealth, auspiciousness, prosperity, knowledge, and other potent powers to cross every hurdle of life. Remember, everyone in this world worships power, i.e., Durga, because there is no one who does not love and long for power in some form or the other.
 
 
BELOW ARTICLE IS FROM THIS LINK HERE.  (From Hindu Fasts & Festivals by Sri Swami Sivananda)

Navaratri ("nava" + "ratri") literally means "nine nights." This ritual is observed twice a year, in spring and in autumn. "Vasanta Navaratri" or Spring Navaratri is nine days of fast and worship that Hindus undertake during spring every year. Swami Sivananda retells the legend behind this 9-day springtime ritual during which the devout Hindu seeks the blessings of the Mother Goddess.

The Story Behind the Origin of Vasanta Navaratri


In days long gone by, King Dhruvasindu was killed by a lion when he went out hunting. Preparations were made to crown the prince Sudarsana. But, King Yudhajit of Ujjain, the father of Queen Lilavati, and King Virasena of Kalinga, the father of Queen Manorama, were each desirous of securing the Kosala throne for their respective grandsons. They fought with each other. King Virasena was killed in the battle. Manorama fled to the forest with Prince Sudarsana and a eunuch. They took refuge in the hermitage of Rishi Bharadwaja.
 
The victor, King Yudhajit, thereupon crowned his grandson, Satrujit, at Ayodhya, the capital of Kosala. He then went out in search of Manorama and her son. The Rishi said that he would not give up those who had sought protection under him. Yudhajit became furious. He wanted to attack the Rishi. But, his minister told him about the truth of the Rishi’s statement. Yudhajit returned to his capital.


Fortune smiled on Prince Sudarsana. A hermit’s son came one day and called the eunuch by his Sanskrit name Kleeba. The prince caught the first syllable Kli and began to pronounce it as Kleem. This syllable happened to be a powerful, sacred Mantra. It is the Bija Akshara (root syllable) of the Divine Mother. The Prince obtained peace of mind and the Grace of the Divine Mother by the repeated utterance of this syllable. Devi appeared to him, blessed him and granted him divine weapons and an inexhaustible quiver.

The emissaries of the king of Benares passed through the Ashram of the Rishi and, when they saw the noble prince Sudarsana, they recommended him to Princess Sashikala, the daughter of the king of Benares.

The ceremony at which the princess was to choose her spouse was arranged. Sashikala at once chose Sudarsana. They were duly wedded. King Yudhajit, who had been present at the function, began to fight with the king of Benares. Devi helped Sudarsana and his father-in-law. Yudhajit mocked Her, upon which Devi promptly reduced Yudhajit and his army to ashes.

Thus Sudarsana, with his wife and his father-in-law, praised Devi. She was highly pleased and ordered them to perform Her worship with havan and other means during the Vasanta Navaratri. Then She disappeared.

Prince Sudarsana and Sashikala returned to the Ashram of Rishi Bharadwaja. The great Rishi blessed them and crowned Sudarsana as the king of Kosala. Sudarsana and Sashikala and the king of Benares implicitly carried out the commands of the Divine Mother and performed worship in a splendid manner during the Vasanta Navaratri.

Sudarsana’s descendants, namely, Sri Rama and Lakshmana, also performed worship of Devi during the Vasanta Navaratri and were blessed with Her assistance in the recovery of Sita.

Why Celebrate Vasanta Navaratri?

It is the duty of the devout Hindus to worship the Devi (Mother Goddess) for both material and spiritual welfare during the Vasanta Navaratri and follow the noble example set by Sudarsana and Sri Rama. He cannot achieve anything without the Divine Mother’s blessings. So, sing Her praise and repeat Her Mantra and Name. Meditate on Her form. Pray and obtain Her eternal Grace and blessings. May the Divine Mother bless you with all divine wealth!"  (From Hindu Fasts & Festivals by Sri Swami Sivananda)

Jai Jai Mata Ki Jai!

HinduismToday.com: "15 Hindu Festivals"

Namaste, Hari Om,

(.PDF File on the 15 Holidays here - http://www.hinduismtoday.com/modules/smartsection/item.php?itemid=5074 ) or direct link Click Here.

I am an avid reader of Hinduism Today (Hindu Press International), they offer great insights into the world of Hinduism. Hinduism Today brings news and articles from across the world - from Mandirs opening across the world to festivals and how they are celebrated by various countries.

One major aspect I truly like about Hinduism Today is their approach towards diversity - they encourage oneness with everyone in the world both in our faith and outside our faith as we are all one.

I encourge everyone to suscribe to their email distribution, its daily and the news and links are very interesting!  Click here on how to suscribe.

More Info From Hinduism Today regarding the 15 holidays - Note there are more than 15 holidays, but these are the major ones (they are all major after all). Holidays are important to ourselves as we walk this spiritual path, I encourge everyone to look at a spiritual calendar and observe the days that are listed there.

From Hinduism Today;

"Hinduism is celebratory by nature. Hindus miss no opportunity to set mundane matters aside and join with family, friends, neighbors and strangers alike to feast and have fun, to renew the home and the heart and, most importantly, draw nearer to God.

Festivals are perhaps more impressive and varied in Hinduism than in any other religion. The devout Hindu knows these are times of profound mysticism, when God and the Gods touch our world, revitalize our souls, lighten karmas and bless our families.

Yet festivals do even more than this: they are essential to the perpetuation of religion, periodically reigniting the spark of zeal and devotion in the community. They provide the spiritual public square where Hindus engage with one another, affirming shared values and enjoying life's intersections. " - Continue reading here; http://www.hinduismtoday.com/modules/smartsection/item.php?itemid=5074

"I want to see God, now" - Good devotional story

Namaste, Hari Om,

Great article I found on devotion, this is universal as the end lesson can benefit all.

Source and further information:


http://www.indiadivine.org/audarya/advaita-vedanta/147320-re-exp-adwaita-bodh-katha.html

_____________________________________________________
"There was a devotee who wanted something very specific from


the Lord. He met a Sadhu who advised him to worship Lord

Shiva elaborately every day in a ritualistic fashion. The

devotee was following the instructions very closely for a

whole month but nothing happened in terms of the Grace of

the Lord showing forth or anything of that kind. Another

Sadhu passed by and seeing this devotee carry on his

worship so steadfastly, the Sadhu enquired and found out

the truth. He offered an unsolicited advice and said:

‘Shiva is not the God to propitiate for such kinds of

prayers to the Lord. After all Shiva himself is a pauper

and so you better propitiate Lord Vishnu who has got

Goddess Lakshmi as His consort. He will give you what you

want’.



>From the next day the decvotee put aside the Shiva picture

in a corner and started the puja of Lord Vishnu in all

seriousness. Another month passed by and nothing happened.

A third Sadhu came along. The devotee went and reported to

him and complained that the Lord had not blessed him yet.

This Sadhu now gave his own advice and said: Vishnu and

Shiva are after all only at the mercy of the all-powerful

Shakti. The Mother Goddess is the store of energy for all

these other Gods and so it is Her that the devotee should

worship. She will definitely grant Him what He wanted.



>From that day both the Vishnu and Shiva pictures were laid

away. The picture of Mother Goddess adorned the centre of

the puja room and very elaborate worship continued for

several days. The days were not different and nothing

happened to indicate that the Goddess was satisfied.



One day at the end of the Puja, the devotee was elaborately

performing the Dhupa ritual, that is, the burning of the

incense for the picture of the Goddess and waving it before

the picture. The whole room was filled with incense smoke

and he found that the smoke not only covered the picture of

the Goddess but it also blocked out the pictures of the

Gods Vishnu and Shiva on the wall, which by the way had

been pushed by him to the two corners after his earlier

disenchantment with them. The devotee was really furious.

How can these discarded Gods inhale the incense which he

really meant only for the Shakti picture in the centre? He

would not allow it. So thinking, he took up two pieces of

cloth, covered the two pictures of Shiva and Vishnu so that

they cannot inhale the incense and then continued his

propitiation of the Goddess.



Lo and Behold! At that very instant, the Lords Vishnu and

Shiva appeared before him from nowhere! Imagine his

consternation and wonder! He asked them: How come, You Gods

did not appear before me when I propitiated you

individually each for a month with all that elaborate Puja,

but now when I have discarded you, you are coming before me

when my worship is really intended for somebody else?



And they replied: That is where our secret lies. The moment

you have a firm conviction that we are present here in this

room in flesh and blood it is our Dharma to present

ourselves. When you covered our pictures with cloth so we

may not inhale the incense offered to the Goddess, at that

time you really believed that we were sitting here inhaling

your incense! Whenever a devotee has such an unshaking

faith and awareness about our presence, we cannot but be

present in person there! It is our Dharma."


Jai Jai Maha Dev,

Hindu God Profile: Lord Vishnu

Namaste, Hari Om, Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya

Lord Vishnu's preserving, protecting powers have been manifested to the world in a variety of forms, called Avatars, in which one or more of his divine attributes were embodied in the shape of a human being or an animal or a human-animal combined form, possessing great and sometimes supernatural powers. All these Avatars of Vishnu appeared in the world either to correct some great evil or to effect some great good on earth. These avatars are ten in number, however, the Bhagwad Purana increases them to twenty two and adds further that are innumerable.- Great article from Hindunet.org:(Source).

Comment (by SimpleHinduBhai) In Hinduism many people say we have many Gods - Well I do agree with that, everyone needs to understand the reasoning behind such a comment of "many Gods". You are a person, lets say you are a Male, you could be called a Boy, Teenager, Man etc.. Since you are a male, to different people you hold various relationships and offer great support or help because of that aspect of the relationship. For example, You are a big brother, you lend protection and guidence to younger siblings. You are Mr. Financial Manager at your job, thus you lend professional advice on finance etc.. You are also a Son and have duties to perform to your parents, you could also be a husband which also entails different support functions for a household. As you can see you hold many relationships depending on your role or relation with the person. Your younger sibling would not approach you as Mr. Financial Manager for help, or your wife wouldnt look at you or approach you with a Son relationship etc.. Same for Bhagavan, it is one all merciful lord who looks after us all, but holds many divine names/relationships - in this way we can approach in the right manner for guidence. At the end of the day, we should never try to count or focus on seperation, "this aspect is better, that one is not etc".. If someone talks like this they are not "keeping it real" as they are covered in ignorance...The maha quote below explains everything in an easy and better manner;

"There is no second God, nor a third, nor is even a fourth spoken of

There is no fifth God or a sixth nor is even a seventh mentioned.

There is no eighth God, nor a ninth. Nothing is spoken about a tenth even.

This unique power is in itself. That Lord is only one, the only omnipresent. It is one and the only one."

Atharva Veda 13.4.2 19-20

Lord Vishnu has many Avatars (Pronounced Av-TAr):

(source of the below Avatar meanings below)
Matsya (The fish) In the earliest yuga (era) of Sata-yuga, a king named Manu was performing severe penance for thousands of years. One day as he was performing ablutions with river water, a small fish came into his hands and just as he was about to throw the fish back into the river, the fish requested the king to save its life. Heeding its request, the king put the fish into a jar of water but the fish started growing and the jar was not big enough for it. Then the king threw it into the river, but it soon it outgrew the river and the king then threw it into Ganges and then into the ocean. The king realised that it was Lord Vishnu himself and then the lord made an appearance and made a special request to the king. It predicted that the world would come to an end by a huge flood in seven days and requested the king to build a huge boat and take the seven sages(hermits), seeds of all plants, one animal of each type and told him that he would appear as a fish to propel the boat to Mount Himavan for surviving the flood to the next yuga(eon). True to his word, after seven days

the Lord appeared and the king tied the boat to the fish by using the royal serpent Vasuki and the fish took all of them to Mt Himavan and kept them there till the flood was over and in the new era, the king started procreation a for the new era.

Kurma (The tortoise) Further to Pralaya- deluge at the beginning of the present Kalpa the Gods (devas) lost their immortality due to a curse by the short-tempered sage Durvasa.The sage had once presented a garland of flowers to Indra,king of gods, who carelessly gave it away to his elephant which trampled it. The Devas approached Vishnu for help. Vishnu then asked them to churn the ocean of milk after adding medicines into the ocean. Mt Mandara could be used a the churning stick he said. He requested them to ask them help of Asuras in lifting the mountain in exchange for offer of the share of nectar of immortality that would ensue from the churning. Both the devas and the asuras churned the ocean using the serpent Vasuki as the rope. At the start, playing a Machiavellian trick, Indra, king of the gods asked the asuras for the head end of vasuki. But asuras suspecting foul play, took the head end, only to be deceived as the poison from Vasuki was slowly weakening them. But as churning was proceeding the mountain was sinking and then Lord Vishnu took the form of the tortoise KURMA and kept the mountain afloat. As soon as the bowl of amrita, the nectar of immortality was out, the asuras grabbed it. Then Lord Vishnu took the form of an apsara, a beautiful maiden, and seduced the asuras into letting her distribute the nectar and also to abide by her order of distribution. As soon as the devas were served the maiden disappeared thus totally deceiving the asuras and making them totally weak.

Varaha (The boar) A demon Hiranyaksha, had prayed for Lord Brahma and got awarded a boon that no beast nor man nor god could kill him. But somehow from the list of beasts the name of boar was missing. This proved to be his lacunae. He then started a campaign of plunder across the worlds. He pushed the world to the Pataal loka, or the under of the sea. He stole the Vedas, the holy scriptures from the Lord Brahma, while he was asleep and performed huge atrocities.To retrieve the Vedas and to save the world the Lord Vishnu assumed the role of a boar and brought out the earth from the under of the ocean, using its two tusks. It then killed Hiranyaksha and retrieved the Vedas from the asura and brought it back to the safe custody of the Lord Brahma.

Narsinha/Nrusinha (The man-lion) In NARASIMHA Avatar, Lord Vishnu incarnates himself as a semi-man,semi-lion in this world. The king of demons(asuras), Hiranyakasyapu, wanted to become immortal and wanted to remain young forever. To this end, he meditated for Lord Brahma and because of his severe penance, the gods were frightened and asked Brahma to pacify the king. Brahma was impressed by his austerity and granted him a wish. Hiranyakasyapu wished that he be killed neither by a man or beast, nor in daylight or at night and neither inside or outside a building. Having obtained the wish he considered himself the supreme God and forbade all worship of gods by anyone. But his son Prahlada, was an ardent devotee of Vishnu. This enraged Hiranyakasyapu very much. He ordered numerous ways to kill Prahlada including asking his sister Holika to sit with Prahlada in the fire. But every time Prahlada escaped unhurt. Enraged, once he asked Prahlad to show him the Lord Vishnu. Prahlad said, "He is everywhere". Further enraged, Hiranyakasyapu knocked down a pillar, and asked if Lord was present there. Lord Vishnu then emerged as a half lion, half man from the pillar, and carried him under the arch of the doorway (neither indoors nor outdoors), and the time was evening (in the twilight), neither night nor day. He then killed Hiranyakasyapu with his claws by keeping him on his thighs (neither on earth nor in the sky) thus saving the life of his devotee Prahlada.

Vaman (The dwarf) BALI, the grandson of Prahlada was a very valorous and mighty asura. By his penance and might, he conquered the whole world. Indra and other gods fearing that he and the asuras would conquer all the three worlds, went to Lord Vishnu for help. Lord Vishnu was then born as a dwarf Vamana in the household of a brahman priest. He went to Bali on growing up and asked for alms. Bali was delighted to offer him anything he requested even though his royal guru warned him that it was Lord Vishnu. Vamana then requested for the amount of land that could come under his three feet. Bali gracefully agreed. Lord Vishnu then grew in size and covered the earth and heaven in two stride. And due to lack of space, he put his third leg on Bali himself and crushed Bali to the nether or the Patala loka (underground world), thus helping the Gods out. (SimpleHinduBhai note: it is said in the Bhrama Purana, that after taking these two steps, water from a Bhramanas water pot fell onto Lord Vishnu's feet and this water fell to the earth thus brining Ganga Mata to earth (first going Through Lord Shiva's Lok).

Parshuram In PARASURAMA Avatar, Lord Vishnu incarnates himself as a brahman priest in this world. He was brought in this world to avenge all kshatriyas who had become arrogant and were suppressing the brahmans in the world. He was born with unusual physical power, and became better fighter than any Kshatriya.He was born to Jamadagni and Renuka, and belonged to the Brighu clan. Parashurama was always carrying an axe presented to him by Lord Shiva of whom he was an ardent devotee. Kartavirya a powerful king, once went to Jamadagni's home when he was out, and after a meal, stole the Kamadhenu cow, which was supposed to give endless quantity of milk. Jamadgni was enraged and he went and killed the king and brought Kamadhenu back. On hearing this the son of the king came back and killed Jamdagni. Parasurama was enraged at this and went and avenged the death of his father by killing all kshatriyas in 21 battles. His life is story of the supremacy of brahmans over the kshatriyas. (SimpleHinduBhai's note, in the Shiva Purana, it talks about this great incarnation in detail).

Rama It is the most important Avatar of Vishnu. Rama represents the peak of the historic incarnations, and by him it is defined the ideal character of Indian people.He is Vishnu descended upon earth to conquer all the Indian peninsula, included Sri Lanka, under the Bharata rule. Lord Rama is one of the most adored gods in India. He is always holding a bow and arrow indicating his readiness to destroy evils.His story forms the epic Ramayana. He is perfect in every aspect; the perfect man, the perfect husband, the perfect brother, the perfect king, etc. and the obedient son. Commonly he is pictured in a family style, with his wife Sita, and brother Lakshman.

Krishna In KRISHNA Avatar, Lord Vishnu incarnates himself as KRISHNA , the central character in the epic MAHABHARATA. In this biggest epic of Indian mythology a myriad of topics are covered, including war, love, brotherhood, politics etc. It is essentially the story of two warring groups of cousin brothers, the PANDAVAs and the KAURAVAs. As a part of the Mahabahrata, during the war KRISHNA, gives a long discourse to his disciple ARJUNA, collectively termed as Bhagvad-Gita. Krishna, during his child-hood was responsible for the killing of Kansa. Krishna is also considered to be an ultimate playboy who was resonsible for charming all gopikas (cowherdesses) around him. Unlike Ramayana, Mahabharata deals with more down to earth issues like politics, human nature, human weaknesses, and does not attempt to idealise the characters as in RAMAYANA. His departure marks the beginning of Kali yuga.

Buddha - In the Srimad Bhagavatam there is a list of the avataras, and there is mention of Lord Buddha's name. This Srimad Bhagavatam was written five thousand years ago, and it mentions different names for future times. It says that in the future the Lord would appear as Lord Buddha, his mother's name would be Anjana, and he would appear in Gaya. So Buddha appeared twenty six hundred years ago, and the Srimad Bhagavatam, which was written five thousand years ago, mentioned that in the future he would appear.

Kalki (Soon to come) It is believed that He will appear, riding his white horse and drawing a flaming sword, at the end of the Kali Yuga, the dark age through which we are now passing. His task will be to exterminate the evil and restore the Dharma. Thus will begin a new cycle, starting with the new Satya Yuga. (SimpleHinduBHai's note: It is also stated in other religions along this same aspect, white horse, sword etc..).

What is the reason for these Avatars? Answer is below from the Maha Bhagvad Gita;

"yada yada hi dharmasya,

glanir bhavati bharata,

abhyutthanam adharmasya,

tadatmanam srjamy aham" - Lord Krishna (Bhagavad Gita chp4)

 (translation)"Whenever and wherever there is a decline in religious practice, O descendant of Bharata, and a predominant rise of irreligion--at that time I descend Myself. "

Also, click here for an indepth article regarding the meanings of the Avatars taken by Lord Vishnu. 

Lord Vishnu is known by many names,

The four main attributes of lord Vishnu are as follows (source):

 He holds a chakra in his upper right hand that is known to be the symbol of mind and has been named Sudarshan. The chakra has six spokes and it symbolizes the endless controlling of all the six seasons. Apart from this it is also a powerful weapon of Lord Vishnu that can cut off the heads of demons.
 Lord Vishnu also carries a lotus that represents the power of illusion. He holds this in his upper left arm. The lotus is also the sign of all the five elements of the universe. The lotus has been named Padma and it is the sign of purity as well.
 In his lower left hand he carries a Shankh, which is also known as Panchjanya. It is the fountain from where the five elements of the universe are evolved. The five elements are fire, water, air, sky and earth. The lotus is also the sign of knowledge and it also represents the notion of individual existence.
 And in his lower right hand he carries a mace or Gada that represents the force of the elements and from which the mental and physical powers are derived.

Click below for answers; 

What does the lotus in the hand of Lord Vishnu symbolize? 

 Why are tulsi leaves offered to Lord Vishnu?

Whos is Garuda (Lord Vishnu's Vehicle)? and a good video on Garuda.
Bhajans Dedicated to Lord Vishnu:
Vishnu Sahasranaamam Stotram- Talks about the 10 avatars..
http://videos.bhaktisangeet.com/view/91/lord-vishnu-and-the-10-avatars

Shree Vishnu Pratah Smaranastotram -
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0XgyOXqjWTc

Shree Hari Vishnu Chalisa -
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Nb0Rohg2HI

Lord Vishnu Bhajan
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cy6RetDoaLw

Mantras for Lord Vishnu:

Vishnu Gayatri Mantra:

Om Narayanaya Vidhmahe

Vasudevaya Dheemahi
Thannoh Vishnuhu Prachodhayat
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Zw-EwyqGVE

shaanta-kaaram bhujaga-shayanam padma-naabham suresham

vishwa-dhaaram gagana-sadrisham megha-varanam shubhaangam.
lakshmi-kaantam kamala-nayanam yogi-bhi-dhyaana-agamyam
vande vishnum bhava-bhaya-haram sarva-lokaika-naatham.

LORD VISHNU

His Mantra is: Om Namo Narayanaya
Suklambharadharam visnum sasi varnam caturbhujam
Prasanna vadanam dhyayet sarvavighnopasantaye

Meditation On Sri Krishna
Vamshee vibhooshita karaan navaneeradaabhaat
Peetaambaraadaruna bimbaphalaa dharoshthaat;
Poornendusundara mukhaad aravinda netraat
Krishnaat param kimapi tattwam aham na jaane.
MEANING: I know not any other Reality than the lotus-eyed Krishna with hands adorned with flute, looking like a heavy-laden cloud in lustre, wearing a yellow silk garment, with His lower lip like a ruddy bimba fruit, and with face shining like the full moon.


Meditation On Sri Rama
Dhyaayedaajaanubaaham dhritasharadhanusham
baddhapadmaasanastham,
Peetam vaaso vasaanam navakamala dala spardhinetram
prasannam;
Vaamaankaaroodhaseetaa mukhakamala milal lochanam
neeradaabham,
Naanaalankaara deeptam dadhatamuru jataa mandalam
raamachandram.

MEANING: One should meditate on Sri Ramachandra, with hands reaching the knees, holding the bow and arrows, seated in the locked-up lotus posture, wearing a yellow garb, with eyes vying with the newly-blossomed lotus petals, with a pleasant gait, who has Sita seated on His left thigh, who is blue like the clouds, who is adorned with all kinds of ornaments and having a big circle of Jata on the head.

“Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya”
'Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya' is a mantra of Bhagavan Sri Krishna. It means literally: "Prostration to Bhagavan Vasudeva." 'Surrender to Sri Vasudeva' is implied therein. Now, the prostration, salutation, is an external symbol of the internal union. When we do namaskara to a deity in the temple, to a friend or any person, we join both the palms and bend ourselves low. This namaskara, and the joining of the palms are indicative of the feeling of­ union of oneself with the other. "I and you are one" - that is prostration, that is namaskara. "Bhagavan Vasudeva, I am one with you" is a spirit of surrender, and here begins meditation on Bhagavan Vasudeva. When this mantra is chanted you have also created the requisite atmosphere in the mind for contemplation on Bhagavan Vasudeva, to begin meditation and to feel His presence. This rule applies to all other mantras, also.
(source: http://www.swami-krishnananda.org/disc/disc_90.html)






Jai Maha Vishnu ki Jai,
Hari Om, “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya”

Hindu Calendar Month: March 2010 - List of Important Dates

Namaste, Hari OM,

March 2010 has allot of important dates to consider as we walk this spiritual path.
Please take a look at the calendar on this site from Swaha International, and also another calendar (with more details on dates) from Hindu-Blog.com.

I will try to discuss some of the important dates within March 2010 as some of these dates are important for spiritual growth and to ease our journey in life.

Special days might require special activities, but generally fasting and performing puja will be great. Will post more,

From Hindu-Blog.com:

Dates of important festivals associated with Hinduism in March 2010 – based on major Hindu calendars used in India. The festivals and auspicious days are based on Indian Standard Time.



March 1 – Holi Festival Dhulivandan

March 1 – Chaitra Month begins as per North Indian calendars

March 2 – Tukaram Beej

March 3, 2010 – Ganesh Sankashti Chaturthi

March 5 – Ranga Panchami

March 6 – Shri Ekanath Sashti

March 7 – Bhanu Saptami

March 11 – Papmochani Ekadashi

March 13 – Shani Pradosh

March 13 – Madukrishna Trayodashi

March 15 – Somavati Amavasya – No moon day

March 15 – Panguni Month begins in Tamil Calendar

March 15 – Meenam month begins in Malayalam Kerala Calendar

March 16, 2010 – Gudi Padwa

March 16 – Cheti Chand

March 16 – Ugadi

March 16 – Chaitra Navratri Begins

March 16 – New Year as per traditional North Indian calendar

March 16 – Chaitra Month begins Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh

March 16 – Chaitra month begins in Bengal

March 17 – Gauri Tritiya

March 17 – Matsya Jayanti

March 20 – Lakshmi Panchami

March 21 – Sashti Vratam

March 23 – Ashokashtami

March 23 – Annapurna Puja (Bengal)

March 24 – Chaitra Navratri ends

March 24, 2010 – Ram Navami

March 24 – Swami Narayan Jayanti

March 26 – Kamada Ekadashi

March 27 – Shani Pradosh

March 28 – Anang Vrat Anang Trayodashi

March 29 – Hanuman Jayanti Vrat

March 30 – Hanuman Jayanti

March 30 – Chaitra Purnima – Full moon day

March 30 – Adhik Vaishak Maas begins as per North Indian calendar

March 30 – Vaishak Snan Begins


Jai Jai Hanuman!

Hindu Calendar: Sunday March 7, 2010: Kala Bhairav Ashtami (Day dedicated to Lord Shiva)

Namaste, Hari Om,

Great day to observe fast and meditation on Lord Shiva.
More on Lord Shiva fasting and puja see here. I myself never knew the origin or significance of this day, very interesting as many of these days are in the Puranas and other great books. Read more below from great sites -

See Article from Hindu-Blog.com:

" Kalashtami, also known as Kala Bhairav Ashtami, is observed on the eighth day after full moon or purnima in traditional Hindu lunar calendar. Kalashtami is dedicated to Lord Shiva. Below are the Kalashtami days in 2010. It is his Kal Bhairava form that is worshipped on the day. The most important Kalbhirav Jayanti, or Mahakaal Bhairavashtami, is observed in Margashirsha month (November - December) in traditional Hindu calendar – the day Kala Bhairav appeared on earth. Staunch Shiva devotees observe special prayers and rituals on all Kalashtamis in a year.


Please note that in some regions Kalashtami might start a day early or in some regions overlap into the next day.

Kalashtami dates in 2010 based on Indian Standard Time (IST)

January 7, 2010 – Kalashtami

February 5, 2010 – Kalashtami

March 7, 2010 – Kala Ashtami

April 6, 2010 – Kala Ashtami

May 6, 2010 – Kalashtami

June 4, 2010 – Kalashtami

July 4, 2010 – Kala Ashtami

August 3, 2010 – Kala Ashtami

September 1, 2010 – Kala Ashtami

October 1, 2010 – Kalashtami

October 30, 2010 – Kala Ashtami

November 28, 2010 – Kalbhirav Jayanti, or Mahakaal Bhairavashtami

December 28, 2010 – Kalashtami"

More info on this day here,
 
Also an interesting article from Hubpages talking about Kala Bhairava, click here to read the full article;
 
"Bhairav is worshipped by Hindus and Buddhists alike. Bhairav is also referred to as Bhairo or Bhairon or Bhairadya. His vehicle is dog and he wears ornaments of snakes. He wears a tiger skin and a ritual apron composed of human bones. He also carries the amputated head of Brahma. It is believed that worshipping Kalabhairava would solve most of the problems which are pending for a long time. Those who wish to improve their time management skills also may worship him."
 
Jai Jai Mahadev!