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Beliefs & Practices

Rituals, festivals, yoga and the living practice of the faith.

150 entries

Krodhavasa – The Mother of the Pishachas

She is a daughter of Daksha, one of the many progeny born to the ancient progenitor, and is married to the great sage Kashyapa – Father of the Devas and Asuras, who plays a vital role in Hindu mythology as the father of various races of beings. The Pishachas, flesh-eating demons, are her children. The … Read more

Vishwamitra – The King Who Became a Great Sage

Vishwamitra is one of the most renowned sages in Hindu mythology, celebrated not only for his great wisdom but also for his epic rivalry with the sage Vasishta – Perceptor of the Ishvahu Clan. His transformation from a Kshatriya (warrior) king to a Brahmarishi (the highest rank of sage) is one of the most fascinating … Read more

Mahabharata Festival

The story of the Pandavas’ escape from the plot of Duryodhana and his henchman Purochana showcases recurring themes in Hindu mythology such as divine intervention, adherence to dharma, the strength of familial bonds, and the guidance of elders. The tale also exemplifies the cunning and resourcefulness often displayed by virtuous characters in the face of … Read more

Mahabharata & Lomasa

This episode is from [Maha:3.47-3.79]. A few days after Arjuna had settled into life in Indra’s court, the sage Lomasa arrived. When Lomasa saw Arjuna seated beside Indra on the divine throne, he was astonished. The throne, which was only reserved for those with extraordinary ascetic merit, was now shared by a mortal. Lomasa, a … Read more

Great Rishi (sage) named Chyavana.

Once upon a time, there was a great Rishi (sage) named Chyavana, known for his deep spirituality and yogic power. (See more about Chyavana’s spiritual legacy and Vedic role in our detailed profile.) While still a young man, Chyavana embarked upon a long and arduous penance. He refrained from food and water, sitting motionless in … Read more

Arjuna and Subhadra: A Marriage by Abduction

This chapter of the Mahabharata [Maha: 2.1-2.12] narrates the romantic tale of Arjuna – The Peerless Archer’s marriage to Subhadra, Krishna – An Incarnation of Vishnu’s half-sister. This story is not only a tale of love and bravery but also highlights the customs of ancient India regarding Kshatriya marriages, friendships, and alliances. Arjuna and Subhadra: … Read more

The Rajasuya Yagna and the First Honour to Krishna

This episode from the Mahabharata (Maha:2.32-2.36) revolves around Yudhishthira’s preparations for the Rajasuya Yagna, a grand imperial sacrifice symbolizing his sovereignty. After acquiring wealth through his brothers’ victories, Yudhishthira consults with sages like Vyasa and Krishna to organize the sacrifice, appointing priests, inviting kings, and preparing a large sacrificial hall. During the ceremony, Bhishma suggests … Read more

Rishyashringa’s Yagna and the Birth of Rama

The chapter from Ramayana (Rama:1.11-1.18) recounts King Dasharatha’s journey to the kingdom of Anga, where he seeks the aid of Rishyashringa – Deer born Sage, the husband of Shanta, in conducting the Ashwamedha – The Horse Sacrifice Yagna to obtain progeny. Romapada, the king of Anga, agrees, and Dasharatha returns to Ayodhya to prepare for … Read more

Daksha’s Sacrifice and the Self-Immolation of Sati

This story from the Padma Purana recounts the tragic events of the sacrifice held by Daksha Prajapati – The Creators. Daksha deliberately excluded Lord Shiva from the yagna, despite the objections of many, including the sage Dadhichi. Shiva’s wife, Sati, Daksha’s daughter, pleaded to attend, but Shiva warned her of the insult she would face. … Read more

The Purusha Sukta: Creation from the Cosmic Man

The Purusha – The Primordial Man Sukta (पुरुष सूक्त), found in Rigveda (R.V. 10.90), is a hymn that describes the cosmic creation through the sacrifice of the Purusha, the primordial man. It narrates how from this divine being, the cosmos, the varnas (social classes), and all creatures came into existence. The Purusha is presented as … Read more