1. Religion & Spirituality

Hinduism: Most Popular Articles

These articles are the most popular over the last month.
15 Benefits of the Holy Basil (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
Hindu Festivals Calendar 2013
A date-wise list of Hindu holidays, fasts, feasts, festivals and religious occasions for 2013
Ganesha: Lord of Success
About the elephant-headed deity - the Hindu god of success, the importance of his form and how he got his head.
Hindu / Indian Baby Names Glossary
Here is a glossary of Sanskrit-based Hindu / Indian baby names.
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.
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.
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 Baby Names
Here’s a selection of Hindu / Indian baby names for boys beginning with “A”.
SHIVA PHOTO GALLERY
A collection of high quality images of Lord Shiva.
The Four Vedas: Rig, Sama, Yajur & Atharva
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...
Kali: The Dark Mother
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!
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.
Dream-Symbols & Meanings
Swami Sivananda speaks at length in his book "The Philosophy of Dreams." In this excerpt, he analyses
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.
Hanuman Real Audio
A collection of Real audio songs and hymns of Lord Hanuman - Aartis, Bhajans and Chalisas - sung by renowned Hindi musicians.
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.
Indian National Anthem and National Song
Here are the full text and English version of India's National Anthem and National Song. Also includes are the links to download the official MP3 versions and instructions of playing the anthem and the song.
The Story of Ramayana
The Ramayana is one the world's most loved tales. Here's a short summary of this enchanting epic.
Bindi: The Great Indian 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.
What are Vedas?
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...
The Story of the Birth of Lord 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.
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.
Hindu Calendar: Months, Days, Eras & Epochs
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.
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.
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...
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.
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.
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.
Ganesha Hymn (Aarti)
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.
Top 4 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...
Stories Of Shiva
Here are three mythological legends of Siva, the powerful and fascinating deity of the Hindu Trinity, who represents death and dissolution.
Goddess Durga
Goddess Durga is the mother of the universe and is worshipped as the supreme power of the Supreme Being.
108 Names of Ganesha
Ganesha, the popular Hindu deity, is known by many names. There are 108 different names of Ganesha, many of which are suitable for baby names - for both boys and girls. What are these various Sanskrit names of Ganesha and their meaning? Find out...
'Aartis' or Hymns for Hindu Gods & Goddesses
Lyrics and streaming audio or MP3 downloads of top 10 Hindu hymns or 'aartis' - musical prayers dedicated to various gods and goddesses
Lakshmi: Goddess of Wealth & Beauty!
All about the Hindu deity Lakshmi - the goddess of prosperity, wealth, purity, generosity, and the embodiment of beauty, grace and charm.
15 Laws of Life
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...
Indian Languages Primer: English to Hindi,...
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.
Indian Languages Primer: English to Tamil,...
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.
The Four Ages of Man - The 4 Stages of Life in...
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 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.
Saraswati: Goddess of Knowledge & Arts
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.
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.
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.
Ten Commandments for 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.
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.
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.
What Is Dharma?
It's all about living a life that promises worldly joys and heavenly happiness. It's about what is right!
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…
Ganga: Goddess of the Holy River
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...
"The Ramayana" - CHARACTERS & PLACES
A quick guide to the 'who's who?' and 'what's where?' in the complex plots and subplots of Ramayana...
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.
Swami Vivekananda Wallpapers
Swami Vivekananda's persona and his teachings come alive in these wallpapers released by the Ramakrishna Mission.
Lord Brahma: The 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.
Hindu Deities & Rituals for Seven Days of the...
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.
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.
The Radha-Krishna Romance
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!
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!
Rangoli Designs
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.
"Many Lives, Many Masters" by Dr. Brian Weiss
Many Lives, Many Masters is the true story of a prominent psychiatrist, his young patient, and the past-life
What Is Karma?
Hindus believe that it is Karma or the 'Law of Cause & Effect' that can lead one to salvation. Learn more...
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.
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...
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...
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...
Vaastu: Secrets of a Happy & Healthy Home
Vaastu Shastra - the ancient Indian laws of can help you live a happy and healthy life if your house is compliant to certain natural laws.
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...
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?
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.
Jagjit Singh Bhajans & Devotional Songs
Top 5 Hindu Devotional Music CDs by Jagjit Singh
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.
The 7 Blessings of a Hindu Wedding
The Hindu ceremony, a rite known as 'samskara', has many components and it is quite beautiful, specific
Top 5 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.
108 Names of Lord Rama
Lord Rama is known by a multitude of names - that reflect the many facets of his luminous persona. Here are 108 names of Lord Rama with brief meanings.
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
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.
Top 5 Free Ebooks by Swami Vivekananda
Download Ebook (PDF) 5. Bhakti Yoga - by Swami Vivekananda Sri Ramakrishna Math This e-book of 'Bhakti-Yoga'
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.
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.
Top 5 Books on AYURVEDA
Here's a selection of good books on Ayurveda suitable for all concerned with well-being.
Vedic Astrology: Zodiacal Signs or 'Rashis'
This table shows the Vedic Zodiacal Signs with their rulers, Sanskrit names and symbols, etc.
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...
The Ramayana
The Ramayana is one the world's most read epics. Know more about this enchanting story, its writers and origin, history and mythology, characters and places and its immense popularity and universal appeal.
Holy Cows: Hinduism's Blessed Bovines
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 Story of the Mahabharata
Read the moving story of this great epic in a summarized version written by Prof. James L Fitzgerald of the University of Tennessee.
Shri 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.
Sant Kabir (1440 – 1518)
The saint poet Kabir is one of the most interesting personalities in the history of Indian mysticism.
"The Ramayana" - Summary by Stephen...
Read the moving story of this great epic in a summarized version written by Stefen Knapp. Also suitable for reading aloud to children...
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.
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!
Laws of Manu or 'Manava Dharma Shastra'
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.
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.
Navadurga: The Nine Forms of Goddess 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.
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
Holi - Hindu 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.
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.
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.
The Sai Baba of Shirdi (c 1838 - 1918)
The Life of Sai Baba of Shirdi
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?”
Purnima Dates for 2013-14
Hindus attach great importance to the fortnightly cycle of the moon, and specific rituals are observed on the new moon and full moon days on the month. Here are the dates for the current year.
Christianity's Similarities with 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.
Theories About the Origin of Hinduism
Hinduism is the world's oldest extant religion. A brief discussion on the origin of Hinduism.
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...
Kirtan: How Chants Can Heal the Heart
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!
When is Krishna Janmashtami 2013?
Janmasthami is the birthday of Hinduism's favorite God - Lord Krishna and is a popular religious festival for Hindus. What is the date for Janmasthami 2013?
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!
Vishwakarma - Lord of Architecture
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.
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...
SHIVA ART GALLERY
A selection of contemporary paintings of Lord Shiva.
Types of Hindu Marriage
Read about the different kinds of Hindu marriages, as described in the 'Manusmriti' - the ancient law book.
Easy Steps to Yoga: FREE eBOOK
This simple book will get you started on the path of yoga and meditation. Author Sri Swami Sivananda
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.
Maharishi Swami Dayanand Saraswati (1824-1883)
Swami Dayanand Saraswati was a Hindu spiritual leader and social reformer of the 19th century most famous as the founder of the Hindu reform organization Arya Samaj. Read about his life and teachings.
Manasa - the Snake Goddess
During the monsoon season, Goddess Manasa is worshiped, mainly in eastern India, throughout the months of June, July and August, a time when the snakes leave their nesting ground and come out into the open and become active. In this article, read about this regional Hindu deity and her symbolic significance.
Top Ten Tantra Temples
The followers of the tantra path attach more significance to some particular Hindu temples. These are
Common Myths About Hinduism
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...
The 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 Mahabharata" - Full Text...
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.
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'.
Varanasi (Banaras) - India's Religious Capital
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.
Ekadasi - The Auspicious 11th Day of the Lunar...
Ekadasi in Sanskrit means 'the Eleventh Day,' which occurs twice in a lunar month – once each on the 11th days of the moon cycle. It is a very auspicious time in the Hindu calendar and an important day to fast. Learn more about the significance of Ekadasi and dates for 2012.
Sant Surdas (c. 1479 - c. 1586)
Life of Sant Surdas - the Hindu saint & sightless poet, who wrote and composed thousands songs in his 'Sur Sagar' dedicated to Lord Krishna.
How Hindus are Facing Indignity and Injustice...
The Hindu Human Rights Report by HAF provides detailed accounts of human rights violations and discriminatory laws in nine countries and one state in India where Hindus constitute a minority.
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 Love Tale of Shakuntala & Dushyant
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!
10 Commandments for a Successful Married Life
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...
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…
Hanuman: An Epic Hero
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.
Top 10 Books on the Bhagavad 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.
"The Ramayana" - Full Text Translatio...
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.
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!
Maha Shivratri: The Night of Shiva
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.
10 Days with the Mother Goddess!
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.
Madurai and the Meenakshi Temples
The southern Indian holy city of Madurai is famous for its beautiful temples. One of the oldest in the sub-continent, this ancient place is more than just a place for pilgrims. Read about the many marvels of the Meenakshi temples of Madurai, aka 'Athens of the East.'
Why Do Hindus 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.
The Hindu Calendar System
About the Indian calendar system, its history and correlation with the Gregorian calendar.
The 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.
Four Famous Female Figures of Vedic India
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.
Alexander the Great 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...
The Story of Savitri & Satyavan
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!
The Concept of Time
Hindus do not believe in the linear concept of time. Hindus believe that the process of creation moves in cycles and that each cycle has four great epochs of time or ‘yugas’.
Valmiki
Valmiki, the ancient Hindu Saints is the original creator of the Hindu ‘sloka’ – a verse form in which the great Indian epics are composed. The only work available of the great sage-poet, The Ramayana, has established the poet’s timeless fame.
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!
Healing Words for Tragic Times
The holy Bhagvad Gita tells us that you can kill people, but you can never kill a soul. No weapon can
Lord Ayyappa
Lord Ayyappa is a popular Hindu deity worshiped in many temples in South India. Ayyappa is believed to be born out of the union between Lord Shiva and the mythical enchantress Mohini, an avatar of Lord Vishnu.
The Holy Rudraksha: Super Seed
The Rudraksha seed is credited to possess mystical and divine properties. Necklaces made of Rudraksha beads are supposed to have profound astrological and health benefits.
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 Bhagavad Gita - INTRODUCTION: Full Text...
Read the full text of the English translation of the Bhagavad Gita by Sir Edwin Arnold in 18 Chapters.
The History & Origin of Durga Puja
Durga Puja - the ceremonial worship of the mother goddess, is one of the most important festivals of India. Who performed the first autumnal Puja? When and where did Hindus start celebrating Durga Puja on a mass scale? How did the 'pratima' and the 'pandal' evolve over the years? Find out...
Naming Your Child the Hindu Way
If you know your child's birth star, you can refer to this table to arrive at the first letters of your baby's name and select a name from my Baby Names Guide.
The Laws of Manu: Full Text Translation by G....
Read the full text of the English translation of the Laws of Manu or Manu-samhita or Manava Dharma Shastra by G. Bulher in 12 Chapters.

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