1. Religion & Spirituality

Hinduism: Most Popular Articles

These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Ganesha: The Lord of Success
About the elephant-headed deity - the Hindu god of success, the importance of his form and how he got his head.
Om: Symbol of the Absolute
Om or Aum is of paramount importance in Hinduism. This symbol, which represents both the unmanifest and manifest aspects of God, encompasses all potentialities and possibilities. Find out how Om can help you realize the Unknowable.
15 Benefits of Tulsi
Tulsi or the Holy Basil has amazing healing power. It can used as a herbal medicine in numerous ailments, including fever, common cold, coughs, sore throat, respiratory disorder, kidney stone, heart problem, stress, mouth infections, insect bites, skin disorders...and so on
Hinduism for Beginners
If you're new to this faith, here's where to begin. In this simple introduction to a complex religion, get your basic questions on Hinduism answered and explained in brief.
Hindu / Indian Baby Names Glossary
Here is a glossary of Sanskrit-based Hindu / Indian baby names.
Lord Hanuman
Hanuman, the mighty monkey deity is among the most popular gods in the Hindu pantheon. Read how an ape can become so venerable, and about the exciting exploits of this simian icon that never fail to thrill us.
Hanuman Real Audio
A collection of Real audio songs and hymns of Lord Hanuman - Aartis, Bhajans and Chalisas - sung by renowned Hindi musicians.
Hindu Festivals 2012
A date-wise list of Hindu holidays, fasts, feasts, festivals and religious occasions for 2012
Top 10 Hindu Deities
The most fundamental of Hindu deities, is the Trinity of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. But many other gods such as Ganesha, Krishna, Rama, Hanuman, and goddesses like Lakshmi, Durga, Kali and Saraswati top the popularity chart with Hindus.
Bhajan: Hindu Devotional Music
Bhajans are simple songs in soulful language, with origins in the ancient hymns of Vedas, expressing the many emotions of love for God - a complete submission to him through singing. Its devotional appeal has made is a favorite with the masses.
Hindu Baby Names
Here’s a selection of Hindu / Indian baby names for girls beginning with “A”.
'Aartis' or Hindu Hymns
Lyrics and streaming audio or MP3 downloads of top 10 Hindu hymns or 'aartis' - musical prayers dedicated to various gods and goddesses
SHIVA PHOTO GALLERY
A collection of high quality images of Lord Shiva.
Jai Ganesh, Jai Ganesh!
Read the lyrics of the popular Ganesha Hymn (Hindi Aarti) “Jai Ganesh, Jai Ganesh, Jai Ganesh Deva”, and its English translation. You can also listen to the above hymn sung by Hariharan on your Real Audio player.
Lord Shiva
About Lord Shiva - the powerful and fascinating deity of the Hindu Trinity, who represents death and dissolution. Read about his destructive forces and why he is worshiped as a phallic symbol.
Hindu Rites & Rituals
An overview of the ritual world of Hinduism, from personal daily worship or 'Puja' to rites of passage or 'Samskaras' from birth till death...
How to Wear a Sari
An illustrated step-by-step guide that teaches you how to wear a Sari - India's national dress for females - one of the most elegant attires a woman can adorn...
Goddess Kali
Goddess Kali, the Dark Mother is one such deity with whom devotees have a very loving and intimate bond. Get close to Kali - the fearful goddess with a heart of a mother!
What Is Dharma?
It's all about living a life that promises worldly joys and heavenly happiness. It's about what is right!
Bindi - Forehead Art
Bindi is arguably the most visually fascinating of all forms of body decoration. Hindus attach great importance to this ornamental dot on the forehead between the two eyebrows. Here's all you needed to know about the hot spot that's in vogue today.
Stories Of Shiva
Here are three mythological legends of Siva, the powerful and fascinating deity of the Hindu Trinity, who represents death and dissolution.
The Vedas: A Brief Introductio
The Vedas are the most comprehensive and universal of all ancient scriptures. They have guided our religious direction for ages and will continue to do so for generations to come. Here's an introduction to Vedic Literature and the four Vedas...
Dream-Symbols & Meanings
Swami Sivananda speaks at length in his book "The Philosophy of Dreams." In this excerpt, he analyses
Major Hindu Symbols
Hinduism employs the art of symbolism with amazing effect. No religion is so replete with symbols as this ancient religion. Delve deep into the hidden meanings and origins of major Hindu symbols, including rituals and deities.
Vedic Math Formulas
Vedic Math essentially rests on the 16 Sutras or mathematical formulas as referred to in the Vedas. Here're are useful, links that help you learn more about these 16 Sutras and 13 sub-Sutras, their meanings and methods of application, along with examples.
15 Power Points To Live By
15 chosen gems from Swami Vivekananda’s writings: “Love for love's sake, because it is law of life.” Find out the other laws of life...
How to Attain Peace of Mind
Peace of mind remains the most sought-after matter in life. Broadcaster Gyan Rajhans tells you how to attain peace in 10 different ways.
Swami Vivekananda Wallpapers
Swami Vivekananda's persona and his teachings come alive in these wallpapers released by the Ramakrishna Mission.
Goddess Lakshmi
All about the Hindu deity Lakshmi - the goddess of prosperity, wealth, purity, generosity, and the embodiment of beauty, grace and charm.
Music CDs for Relaxation
Here’s my selection of music that have blended ancient chants and modern orchestration to get the best of both worlds.
The Story of Ramayana
The Ramayana is one the world's most loved tales. Here's a short summary of this enchanting epic.
The 10 Avatars of Vishnu
Read about the 10 avatars of Vishnu – various incarnations used to re-establish dharma or righteousness on earth during the many stages of human evolution.
Golden Age may begin in 2012
The ancient Hindu Kali Yuga calendar and Mayan calendar were both started about the same time over 5000 years ago, and both predict a rebirth of our planet at about the same - about 5000 years after the calendars started - which might be 2012! We might be living through some incredible changes for the earth.
Highway To Heaven
Our desire to live on earth drives our life. But what happens after we die? How does death become us? Where does it take us? A look at the early Hindu concepts of heaven and hell, death and afterlife, sins and virtues, reincarnation and immortality.
The Power of Mantra Chanting
That which uplifts by constant repetition is a mantra. The sound of mantra is said to lift the believer towards the higher self. However, it is important to have full faith in the mantra you chant. How to chant and what's in it for you? Find out...
Devotional Music CDs by Jagjit Singh
Top 5 Hindu Devotional Music CDs by Jagjit Singh
Goddess Durga
Goddess Durga is the mother of the universe and is worshipped as the supreme power of the Supreme Being.
Hindu Wedding Rituals
While various regional steps are followed by different sects of Hindus across India, there are about a dozen rituals that form the core of a Vedic wedding ceremony.
Hindu / Indian Baby Name Books
Who needs a baby name book? You can only answer this when you have a newborn yourself. They are helpful! In today’s global society, naming babies has assumed great importance. Finding an easy to pronounce, meaningful name that is rooted in your own cultural heritage and yet unique is not easy. Perhaps these books can make your task easy...
"Many Lives, Many Masters"
Many Lives, Many Masters is the true story of a prominent psychiatrist, his young patient, and the past-life
Story of the Birth of Krishna
The birth of Krishna is in itself a transcendental phenomenon that generates awe among the Hindus and overwhelms one and all with its supra mundane happenings.
5 Prayers For All Occasions
Here are the lyrics of 5 prayers - the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra, and Meditations on Shiva, Ganesha, Krishna and Rama. Also included are the meanings of each of these prayers.
In Praise of India
Here's what scholars, historians and authors have to say about India and Hinduism. Quoting top 30 quotations from Will Durant, Mark Twain, Albert Einstein, Max Mueller, Romain Rolland, et al.
What is Namaste?
‘Namaste’ or ‘namaskar’ is the Hindu way of greeting each other. It is not a superficial gesture or mere word, but has deep spiritual significance.
Swami Vivekananda's Speeches
Read the text of the famous welcome address by Swami Vivekananda at the World Parliament of Religions, Chicago, September 11, 1893
Vivah - Bollywood Photo Gallery
'Vivah' means marriage - an institution that binds two individuals into a bond that is sacred, pure and eternal - a commitment for life. It is also the title of Suraj Barjatya's latest Bollywood film. Here're some stills from the movie starring Shahid Kapoor and Amrita Rao.
Indian Languages Primer: English to Hindi, Bengali, Marathi
A list of common words, phrases and sentences in major Indian languages translated into English, French, Spanish, Italian, German, Arabic and Cantonese. Knowing these can prove very useful for people visiting India.
Hinduism's Holy Cows
The cow is a pampered animal in India for religious reasons. Why is the cow considered sacred? Does it make any sense to protect the cow? Read more about the history of holy cow...
"The Ramayana" - CHARACTERS & PLACES
A quick guide to the 'who's who?' and 'what's where?' in the complex plots and subplots of Ramayana...
The Upanishads
The Upanishads, hailed as the supreme work of the Indian mind, form the core of Hindu teachings. They are summits of thought on man and the universe, designed to push human ideas to its very limit and beyond. Discover this secret science of the self!
All About the Hindu Temple
Although it is not mandatory for a Hindu to visit a temple regularly, they play a vital role in Hindu society and culture. Learn about the basics of what a Hindu temple is all about.
Kirtan: How Chants Can Heal
Meditation doesn't come easy. That's where 'kirtan' - an ancient participatory music experience - offers an avenue to escape effortlessly to a place of mental quiet and stillness, where you can feel your soul!
Top 10 Yoga Videos
Trying to learn yoga from a videotape is a different experience. Here's a selection of the best tapes for some inspiring yoga workout. Whether you are a busybee or a fitness freak, a housewife or a pregnant woman, a beginner or a confirmed yogi, these tapes are tempting!
About the Origin of Hinduism
Hinduism is the world's oldest extant religion. A brief discussion on the origin of Hinduism.
Hindu Calendar: Months & Days
What are the months and days of the Hindu year called? The article lists the Sanskrit names of the Hindu months, days and lunar days and their correlation with the Gregorian calendar.
Indian Languages Primer: English to Tamil, Telugu, Kannada
A list of common words, phrases and sentences in major Indian languages translated into English, French, Spanish, Italian, German, Arabic and Cantonese. Knowing these can prove very useful for people visiting India.
Nataraj: The Dancing Shiva
Nataraj, the dancing form of Lord Shiva, is a symbolic synthesis of the most important aspects of Hinduism and Indian culture, developed by 9th and 10th century artists in a series of beautiful bronze sculptures. What does it symbolize and signify?
What Is Karma?
Hindus believe that it is Karma or the 'Law of Cause & Effect' that can lead one to salvation. Learn more...
The Four Ages of Man
Hindu men should ideally go through four 'ashramas' or stages in life - the celibate student, the married family man, the hermit in retreat, and the wandering recluse. But most men are so much in love with the second stage that it lasts a lifetime!
The Gayatri Mantra
The Gayatri mantra is one of the oldest and most powerful of Sanskrit mantras. It is believed that by chanting the Gayatri mantra, if you carry on your life and do the work that is ordained for you, your life will be full of happiness. Here's an analysis of this popular Hindu hymn.
Tulsi: The Holy Basil
The 'tulsi' plant or Indian holy basil is an important symbol in the Hindu religious tradition. Tulsi is a venerated herb and has many medicinal properties.
Diwali: Festival of Lights
Deepawali or Diwali is the biggest of all Hindu festivals. Learn about its origin, significance, and the four days of celebrations that mark this auspicious occasion.
7 Blessings of Hindu Wedding
The Hindu ceremony, a rite known as 'samskara', has many components and it is quite beautiful, specific
Lord Rama - The Ideal Avatar
Lord Rama, the most perfect avatar of God is at once the ideal son, the ideal husband, and the ideal king. A look at the life and exploits of Rama, or Shri Ramji, as he is respectfully called.
Lord Vishnu
The lord of peace and truth, Vishnu is the ‘Preserver’ form of the Hindu Trinity. His many avatars have been known to born on this earth to restore peace and order – the most popular being Lord Krishna and Rama.
Bridal-red handwoven sari
A photo gallery of Indian women's bridal saris. The Sari - India's national dress for women - is one of the most elegant attires a woman can adorn. This gallery features a range of beautiful and colorful silk saris that women prefer to wear during a marriage ceremony.
Navadurga: Nine Forms of Durga
Nava Durga or the nine manifestations of Goddess Durga are Shailaputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmaanda, Skandamata, Katyayani, Kaalratri, Maha Gauri and Siddhidatri. What does each form stand for and what is their significance? Find out in this photo essay.
Brahma: God of Creation
Brahma is the creator of the universe and of all beings, as depicted in Hindu cosmology. In Hinduism, the whole creation is seen as the dynamic game of the Trinity of Gods: Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. Here we talk about Brahma and the many facets of his divine energy.
Shani Dev
Shani Dev is one of the most popular deities that the Hindus pray to ward off evil and remove obstacles. They are under fear of evil from his planet - Saturn. Anyone born under his influence is believed to at risk. How to appease Shani? Find out...
Ganga: The River Goddess
The River Ganges or Ganga is perhaps the holiest river in any religion. Besides being a sacred river, Ganga is also worshiped as a deity in Hinduism and respectfully referred to as ‘Gangaji’ or ‘Ganga Maiya’ (Mother Ganga). Why is the Ganges regarded as holy? Find out...
Sant Surdas
Life of Sant Surdas - the Hindu saint & sightless poet, who wrote and composed thousands songs in his 'Sur Sagar' dedicated to Lord Krishna.
Goddess Saraswati
Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge and arts, represents the free flow of wisdom and consciousness. She is the mother of the Vedas, and chants to her often begin and end Vedic lessons.
The 7 Days – Deities & Rituals
Each of the seven days in a week has a special significance in Hinduism. About the seven days, the respective planet & deities associated with the particular days, relevant tales and legends, and the gemstones and colors that are said to be lucky for those days.
Festival Decorations
Here're some simple designs for you to print and use stencil cut outs to make Rangoli. Kids can also use these line drawings for coloring.
The Four Yugas or Epochs
Read about the four great epochs or 'yugas' as described in the Hindu scriptures, and the cursed Kali Yug we're living in. What happens at the end of this age? Let's find out…
Main Tenets of Hinduism
Hinduism lacks any unified system of beliefs and ideas. A brief introduction to the main tenets, principles and disciplines of Hinduism.
"The Ramayana" - Summary by Stephen Knapp
Read the moving story of this great epic in a summarized version written by Stefen Knapp. Also suitable for reading aloud to children...
Immortal Love Legends
Perhaps no other faith glorifies the idea of love between the sexes as Hinduism. The amazing variety of mythical love stories that abounds Sanskrit literature is undoubtedly one of the richest treasure hoards of exciting love tales. Come, explore!
Top 5 Books on AYURVEDA
Here's a selection of good books on Ayurveda suitable for all concerned with well-being.
Who is Krishna?
The great exponent of the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna is the ninth and the most powerful incarnation of Vishnu, the Godhead of the Hindu Trinity of deities. Read all about the 'Dark Lord', his life and teachings...
What is Shiva Linga?
The popular belief is that the Shiva Linga or Lingam represents the phallus, the emblem of the generative power in nature. According to Swami Sivananda, this is not only a serious mistake, but also a grave blunder.
SHIVA ART GALLERY
A selection of contemporary paintings of Lord Shiva.
Lord Siva And His Worship
Who doesn't know Shiva, the Lord of Destruction? But if you want to know Shiva really well, I recommend
5 Principles & 10 Disciplines
The essence of Hinduism can be distilled into five principles and ten commandments that can be said to form the bedrock of the universal religion of Hinduism.
Handwoven Wisteria Valkalam Sari
A photo gallery of Indian women's bridal saris. The Sari - India's national dress for women - is one of the most elegant attires a woman can adorn. This gallery features a range of beautiful and colorful silk saris that women prefer to wear during a marriage ceremony.
Ganesh Chaturthi
About the Great Ganesha festival. Read how to celebrate this auspicious occasion and pray for inner strength and success in all your undertakings...
Laws of Manu
Traditionally accepted as an arm of the Vedas, the 'Laws of Manu' or 'Manava Dharma Shastra' (c. 500 BC) is a key Hindu text. It presents the norms of domestic, social, and religious life, and is fundamental to the understanding of ancient India.
10 Commandments for Success
Here are ten points gleaned from the writings of Sri Swami Sivananda, which can lead any individual towards
10 Ways to Succeed in Marriage
What does it take to be an ideal spouse? Gyan Rajhans dishes out some tried and tested means to keep your married life sound, peaceful and free from conjugal tensions...
What is Tantra?
Tantra is mistakenly identified as the yoga of sex, black magic, witchcraft, and an amalgam of techniques for influencing the mind of others. Renowned Tantrik master Shri Aghori ji dispels the myth surrounding this Vedic tradition of Tantrism.
Hindu Succession Act, 2005
The Hindu Succession (Amendment) Act, 2005 removes the gender discriminatory provisions in the Hindu Succession Act, 1956 and gives a number of rights to daughters taking them on a par with sons.
Ganesha Mantra
Chant this mantra of Lord Ganesha for Success .: ganesh chaturthi surya bl related resources sculptures
Top Ten Tantra Temples
The followers of the tantra path attach more significance to some particular Hindu temples. These are
Easy Steps to Yoga
This simple book will get you started on the path of yoga and meditation. Author Sri Swami Sivananda
Vedic Astrology: Zodiacal Signs or 'Rashis'
This table shows the Vedic Zodiacal Signs with their rulers, Sanskrit names and symbols, etc.
Alexander Invades India
This story excerpted from 'Our Empire Story' by H. E. Marshall recounts Alexander's invasion of India in 326 BC, and his battle with Hindu king Porus. It is since then that the West have known something of India...
Play Holi... Naturally!
Harmful chemical colors are the perils of Holi. Here's how to make Holi harmless for our environment and ourselves? Play with environment-friendly natural colors that you can make at home. It's easy!
Bengali Wedding Rituals
A typical Bengali marriage ceremony is an elaborate affair that entails a series of colorful ceremony of rituals, which are not only enjoyable but are of great significance...
Bhagavad Gita For Busy People
A common answer to this question is: “No, I want to… but don’t have the time to read such a long discourse?”
"The Mahabharata" - Full Text Translation by Romesh C Dutt - BOOK 1
The Mahabharata is the world's longest and one the most revered epics. Read the full text of this Hindu scripture in this extremely reader-friendly verse translation by Romesh C Dutt - divided into 12 chapters.
"The Ramayana" - Full Text Translation by Romesh C Dutt - BOOK 1
The Ramayana is one the world's most read epics. Read the full text of this Hindu scripture in this 11 lucid and reader-friendly translation by Romesh C Dutt - divided into 11 chapters.
Christianity & Hinduism
Author Stephen Knapp points out the close links between Christianity and Hinduism, which bind them into a sacred brotherhood. He says that Hinduism has had a predominant influence on Christianity, and that many of the Christian rites could have been directly borrowed from Hinduism.
Adi Shankaracharya (788-820)
Shri Adi Shankaracharya or the first Shankara with his remarkable reinterpretations of Hindu scriptures, especially on Upanishads or Vedanta, had a profound influence on the growth of Hinduism. He is the most famous Advaita philosopher who restored the Vedic Dharma to its pristine purity and glory.
Holi - Festival of Colors
On Holi - the festival of colors - get set to paint yourselves in the colors of joy. Learn about its history and legends, and how to get the most out of this boisterous occasion.
10 Reasons to Celebrate Diwali
Why do we celebrate Diwali? It’s not just the festive mood in the air that makes you happy, or just that it's a good time to enjoy before the advent of winter. There are 10 mythical and historical reasons why Diwali is a great time to celebrate. And there are reasons not just for Hindus but also for all others to celebrate this great Festival of Lights.
Why & How to Pray
Even if you pray daily, you may be confused about the underlying philosophy of prayers. Often our prayers are not answered. Here's an insight into fruitful prayers: 12 reasons why you should pray, and 7 ways of praying with success. Keep the faith!
Lord Vishwakarma
Lord Vishwakarma is the presiding deity of all architects. He is the official builder of all the gods' palaces, and the designer of all celestial vehicles and weapons. A look at this divine draftsman of Hindu mythology and some cities he built.
Purnima & Amavasya: Hindu Fasts
Hindus believe that the fortnightly cycle of the moon exerts a great influence on earthly beings. Hence there are specific rituals for the new moon and full moon days. Find out how to observe these rituals and the dates for this year.
Gandhi on God & Religion
MK Gandhi (1869 - 1948), India’s “Father of the Nation,” who spearheaded the country’s Freedom Movement for Independence from British Rule is known for his famous words of wisdom on God, life and religion. Here are some of the most noteworthy ones…
Top 10 Books on Hinduism Basics
Here's a selection of good books on Hinduism basics suitable for beginners: 'Hinduism: Beliefs & Practices' By Jeaneane Fowler, 'Dancing With Siva: Hinduism's Contemporary Catechism' By Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami...more
How Do You Define Hinduism?
It is not easy to define Hinduism, for it is much more than a religion in the Western sense. A brief introduction to the basics of Hinduism.
The Hindu Calendar System
About the Indian calendar system, its history and correlation with the Gregorian calendar.
Types of Hindu Marriage
Read about the different kinds of Hindu marriages, as described in the 'Manusmriti' - the ancient law book.
Sacred Symbols
Endearing images embodying intuitions of the spirit that adorn Hindu art, architecture and iconography. Written by Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami, and illustrated by A Manivel for 'Dancing With Siva'.
Why Celebrate Holi?
Holi is one occasion when sprinkling colored powder ('gulal') or colored water on each other breaks all barriers of discrimination so that everyone looks the same and universal brotherhood is reaffirmed.
Goswami Tulsidas
Believed to be an incarnation of Sage Valmiki, Tulsidas wrote “The Ramcharitmanasa – a Hindi translation of the Sanskrit Ramayana, one of the two original epics of the Hindus. He was an ascetic and known for his many miracles.
How to Kill Pride & Ego
Pride rears its head even in the most unsuspected corners. While one may be proud that he is a non-believer in God, another may be proud of his devotion to God. Ego and arrogance result from overbearing pride. Find out how to keep these vices at bay.
Maha Shivratri
Maha Shivratri, the night of the worship of Shiva, occurs on the 14th night of the new moon during the dark half of the month of 'Phalguna' (Feb / March) when Hindus offer special prayer to the lord of destruction. Learn more about Shivratri and why to celebrate this festival.
History & Future of Vedic Math
Born in ancient India, Vedic Maths was rediscovered towards the beginning of the 20th century. Today, interest in Vedic maths is growing in the field of education where maths teachers are looking for a new and better approach to the subject. Everyone can benefit from this remarkable system of calculation.
How to Approach Death
At 63, Gyan Rajhans, scientist and spiritual thinker, contemplates upon the inevitable end of life – death, and comes up with words of advise about what should be the right attitude to death, and how one should approach it.
Brahman of the Vedas
“Brahman” - the Hindu concept of the Absolute is exclusive to Hinduism, and to call it “God” is imprecise. It is neither the “old man in the sky” concept, nor the idea of something capable of being vengeful or fearful. Then what or who is Brahman? Dr Frank Morales explains…
What is Vedic Math?
Just as the basics principles of Hinduism lay in the Vedas, so do the roots of mathematics. Discover the marvels of Vedic maths, a unique system of calculations based on word formulae, which can help you solve any mathematical problem.
The Mangalsutra Necklace
Mangalsutra is a sacred necklace that the groom ties around the bride's neck on the day of the wedding in a traditional Hindu wedding ceremony, thereby giving her the status of his wife and life mate.
Christ-Krishna Connection
Similarities in the names, lives and teachings of the greatest figures of the world's greatest religions have enough fuel for the curious mind to prod into the proposition that they were indeed one and the same person. Indeed it's hard to ignore a host of likenesses between Jesus Christ and Lord Krishna.
Why Fast?
Does religious fasting make any sense? Why do Hindus fast? A look at fasting from several perspectives.
Lord Kartikeya
Kartikeya, the second son of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, is a war god. The symbolism of Kartikeya points to the ways and means of reaching perfection in life.
What is Ayurveda?
Ayurveda can be defined as a system, which uses the inherent principles of nature, to help maintain health in a person by keeping the individual's body, mind and spirit in perfect equilibrium with nature. Here's a quick introduction to this ancient Hindu science.
Milky-white Silk Sari
A photo gallery of Indian women's bridal saris. The Sari - India's national dress for women - is one of the most elegant attires a woman can adorn. This gallery features a range of beautiful and colorful silk saris that women prefer to wear during a marriage ceremony.
Sacred Texts of the Hindus
The world's oldest scriptures and the longest epic poems are among the sacred texts of the Hindus. A brief introduction to the basic scriptures of Hinduism.
Navratri, Durga Puja, Dusshera
It's festival time again! Every year during this time, Hindus observe ten days of ceremonies, rituals, fasts and feasts in honour of the supreme mother goddess Durga. Here's how to celebrate Navratri, Dusshera, Durga Puja and Vijayadashami.
The Guru Purnima
The full moon day in the Hindu month of Ashad (July-August) is observed as Guru Purnima, a day sacred to the memory of the ancient sage Vyasa, who edited the four Vedas, wrote the 18 Puranas, the Mahabharata and the Srimad Bhagavata. Find out how to celebrate the day and more...
Vedic Women
The Hindu woman is no longer allowed to head a joint family, the Indian apex court pronounced recently. We have lessons to learn from the status of Indian women in the Vedic era, more than 3000 years ago.
The Bhagavad Gita - INTRODUCTION: Full Text Translation by Sir Edwin Arnold
Read the full text of the English translation of the Bhagavad Gita by Sir Edwin Arnold in 18 Chapters.
"The Mahabharata" - SUMMARY by Prof. James L Fitzgerald
Read the moving story of this great epic in a summarized version written by Prof. James L Fitzgerald.
Sai Baba of Shirdi
The Life of Sai Baba of Shirdi
Harrison & Hinduism
George Harrison was perhaps one of the most spiritual of musicians of modern times. He embraced Hinduism at the height of his fame and remained a plainclothes devotee till his last day of earthy existence. A peek of the spiritual world of Harrison…
Why Do We Have So Many Gods?
It's easy misinterpret the fact that Hinduism has a multitude of Gods! Hindu deities amount to thousands, all representing the many aspects of only one supreme Absolute called “Brahman”. Let us try to understand the concept of Gods in Hinduism.
Rakhi: The Thread of Love
Raksha Bandhan or 'Rakhi' is a special occasion to celebrate the chaste bond of love between a brother and a sister, by tying a sacred thread around the wrist. Learn about its history and social significance.
Hinduism is Not a Religion
Hinduism is different from other religions in that it is not a religion per se in the traditional sense of the term. Find out how it is different and why it is unique...
Top 10 Books on the Gita
The Bhagavad Gita is universally regarded as the single most influential philosophical text that provides an ultimate guide to self-realization. It is said to free you from all sense of limitation. Here's a selection of the top ten books on the Gita.
Lopamudra, Gargi, Maitreyi...
Women of the Vedic period (c 1500-1200 BCE), were epitomes of intellectual and spiritual attainments. The Vedas have volumes to say about these women, who both complemented and supplemented their male partners. Read about a few significant female figures of the Vedic period - Ghosha, Lopamudra, Sulabha Maitreyi, and Gargi.
All About Mehendi or Henna
Henna tattoos are considered among the most auspicious 'ornaments' of a married Hindu woman. A look at the history, significance and how this beautiful reddish dye has become synonymous with Hindu wedding, and has made waves the West.
Durga: Goddess Image Gallery
A selection of contemporary paintings & sculptures of Goddess Durga.
Padma or Lotus
Endearing images embodying intuitions of the spirit that adorn Hindu art, architecture and iconography. Written by Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami, and illustrated by A Manivel for 'Dancing With Siva'.
Ideals of Hindu Marriage
In a Vedic marriage, man and woman take oath for the practice of self-restraint, to work together for the welfare of the family, and help each other to attain spiritual peace. This lofty ideal of sanctity is a great gift of Hinduism to the world.
Ganesha Tales
The legends that are connected with Lord Ganesha are recorded in the Ganesha Khanda of the 'Brahma Vivartha Purana.' Here are two such popular stories - The Curse of the Moon' and 'Who is Elder?'
Varanasi (Banaras)
Varanasi, one of world's oldest living cities, is rightly called the religious capital of India. Also known as Banaras, this holy city rests on the bank of the sacred Ganges, and has some unforgettable experiences to offer to every visitor.
Brown Tanchoi Sari
A photo gallery of Indian women's bridal saris. The Sari - India's national dress for women - is one of the most elegant attires a woman can adorn. This gallery features a range of beautiful and colorful silk saris that women prefer to wear during a marriage ceremony.
Gods & Goddesses in Hinduism
Hinduism believes that there is only one supreme Absolute called Brahman but does not advocate the worship of any one particular deity. A brief introduction to the Hindu universe of gods and goddesses.
Chyawanprash: Ancient India...
Chyawanprash is a comprehensive Ayurvedic herbal tonic with multiple health benefits, prepared according to the ancient Hindu 'Ashtankahridayam text. Used by people around the world and especially in India, it is a proven energizer, immunity booster and pre-emptive tonic.

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