Nirjala Ekadashi Fast 2024 | Nirjala Ekadashi Vrat

Posted on May 17, 2012 by astrobix

Ekadashi is of two types, i.e, Vidya Ekadashi and Shudh Ekadashi. When Ekadashi conjucts Dashmi during sunrise, it is called Vidya Ekadashi. On the other hand, Ekadashi which do not conjucts Dashmi Shudh Ekadashi.

According to the Hindu scriptures, observing fast on Ekadashi conjucting Dashmi is prohibited. On the other hand, Shuddh Ekadashi fast can be observed, if it is conjucting Dwadashi even for  few minutes.

Nirjala Ekadashi will be celebrated on 18th june 2024. After that Ekadashi will commence, but the fasting will be prohibited as Vidya Ekadashi will conjuct dashmi

Nirjala Ekadashi of Jyeshtha Shukla Paksha is also known as Bhimseni Ekadashi as according to Rishi Vedvyas, this Ekadashi was held by Bhimsen. By observing this fast, a person gets longevity and salvation. It is considered to be one of the toughest fast as no water is drunk while observing this fast. Hence it is given the name of Nirjala Ekadashi i.e Ekadashi fast without water.

Observing fast on this Ekadashi give the results equivalent to observing 24 Ekadashi of a year. After observing this fast, a person should wake up early in the morning on Dwadashi (a day after Ekadasi), take bath, make donation, and offer food to Brahmans. The devotee must chant  “Om Namo Bhagwate Vasudevay” and donate cow, clothes, fruits etc. on this day.

Nirjala Ekadashi Puja

A person observing this fast must begin to follow the rules of fasting from Dashmi Tithi (a day before Ekadashi). He should chant the mantra “Om Namo Bhagwate Vasudevay” throughout the day. There is a tradition of donating cow on this day which is considered to have a special significance. Having bath, doing meditation etc. are also considered auspicious on this day.

Person observing this fast should worship Lord Vishnu and listen to the story. After performing puja with proper rituals the observer should offer food, sweets and dakshina to the priests as per his potency. If possible, Jagran should be done during the night.

Nirjala Ekadashi Fast Story

As per the legend,  Bhimsen went to Saint Vyas and said,  “ O God! Yudhishthir, Arjun, Nakul, Sahdev, Kunti and Draupadi everyone observe the fast of Ekadashi and I am not able to tolerate hunger. Though, i can worship and donate to please Lord Vasudev. I need the benefits of the fast in this without any fasting, please help me”

On this the saint  replied “If you wish to go to the heaven after death, you need to observe the fast on both the Ekadashi without food. Observing the fast of Ekadashi of Jyeshtha month without drinking water is considered very auspicious. Having food in fast, breaks the Vrat.” As explained by the saint, Bhimsen observed the fast and got rid of all his sins.

Significance of Nirjala Ekadashi fast

Nirjala Ekadashi fast is observed on Ekadashi of Shukla Paksha, Jyeshtha month  in between of Mithun Sankranti. Fasting begins from the sunrise of Ekadashi and the observer must wake up before the sunrise on the day of Dwadashi. Observing Ekadashi fast is considered to be equivalent to taking bath in all pilgrimage places. The person who observes Nirjala fast gets relief from all his sins and does not suffer from any kind of mental and physical problems during his death. It is also known as Pandava Ekadashi.  Those who perform homas, holy bath and charity after observing the fast gets benefit of donating crore number of cows.

Posted in Ekadashi, Fast, Festivals, Hindu Gods, Hindu Maas, Hindu Rituals | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

Shri Baglamukhi Sadhana to defeat enemies – Goddess Bagalamukhi

Posted on May 16, 2012 by astrobix

Goddess Bagalamukhi is the eighth Mahavidya out of ten Mahavidyas. She is the goddess of immense power and is worshipped to attain victory over enemies, arguments etc. A person who worships her gets relief from all sorts of problems in life.  The word “Bagala” has been derived from the Sanskrit word, Valga which means ‘bride’ in Sanskrit. Goddess Bagalamukhi has been given this name because of her beauty.

Goddess Bagalamukhi relieves a person from the enemies and negative energies. Goddess Bagalamukhi is also known as Pitambara. Yellow coloured materials are used for her puja as she is fond of yellow colour. Goddess Bagalamukhi has a yellow complexion like a gold and thus a person should wear yellow coloured clothes while worshipping her.

Goddess Bagalamukhi can be seen riding a beautiful chariot embedded with gemstones. The devotees of the goddess is able to defeat all his enemies and becomes successful in every field. She can be easily pleased by offering yellow flowers and coconut to her. Lamps should be lit in front of the idol of the goddess kept on a heap of turmeric. Reciting goddess Bagalamukhi’s Mantras and offering yellow clothes to the goddess relieves a person from all kinds of obstacles and sufferings.

Goddess Baglamukhi Pujan

Devotees should wake up early and wear yellow coloured clothes on the day of worshipping the goddess. A person should perform sadhana or meditation in isolation or with an experienced sadhak. To worship goddess Bagalamukhi, a person should sit on a platform facing east covered with a yellow cloth. He should establish the picture of goddess Baglamukhi in front of him while performing sadhana.

After this, the devotee should take yellow rice, haridra, yellow flowers and Dakshina in his hand and offer his prayers. It is necessary to follow the principles of Brahmacharya during this puja. For reciting mantras, the Puja Yantra is made of Chickpeas dal and should be kept on a silver utensil.

Goddess Baglamukhi yantra-tantra Sadhana

Shri Brahmastra- Vidya Baglamukhya Narad Krisheya Namah Shirsi !

Trishupt Chandse Namoh Mukhe ! Shri Baglamukhi Devtaya Namo Hrideya !

Hrin Beejaya Namo Gunho ! Swaha Shakteya Namah Padyo |

Om Namah Sarvargam Shrim Baglamukhi Devta Prasad Siddhartha Nyaso Viniyoga|

After chanting the above mantras, worship the goddess

Om Aim Hrim Shree Baglamukhi Sarvadarshanam Mukham Stambhana Sakal Manoharini Ambike Ihagcha Sanidhim Kuru Sarvath Sadhya Swaha |

Meditation

Sauvarnamansanthitta Trinayanam Pitamshukolsineem

Hemavangruchi Shashank Mukutam Sachampaksargyutama

Hastemudradagar Pashvarjasana Sambi Bhrati Bhushnem

Vyaptangi Baglamukhi Trijgatam Sanstbhinau Chintyeta |

Viniyoga

Om Asya Shribaglamukhi Brahmastra Mantra Kawachchasya Bhairava Rishi

Virat Chand Shribaglamukhi Devta, Kalim Beejam, Aim Shakti

Shri KIlankam, Mam (Parsya) Cha Manobhilashitteshtakarya Siddhiye Viniyoga |

Nyaas

Bhairav Risheeya Namah Shirsi, Virat Chandase Namah Mukhe

Shribaglamukhi Devtaya Namah Hridi, Kalim Beejaya Namah Grohoma, Aim Shakteya Namah Padyo

Shri Keelkayi Namah Nabho Mam Cha Manobhilshishtakarya Siddheya Viniyogaya Namah Sarvege |

Mantrodar

Om Hrim Aim Shri Kalim Shribaglanane Mam Ripuna Nashya Nashya, Mamrisheyarni Dehi Dehi Sheegrah Manovanchit Karayama Sadhya Sadhya Hrim Swaha |

Mantra

Om Hrima Baglamukhi Sarvadushtanam

Vanch Mukham Padam Stambhaya Jihavam Kilaya

Budhi Vinashaya Hrim Om Swaha

Baglamukhi Kawach-path

Shiro Mepatu Om Hrim Aim Kalim Patulalatkam |

Sambodhanpadam Patu Netre Shribaglanane ||

Shruto Mam Ripum Patu Nasikam Nashaydwayama |

Patu Gando Sada Mameshwaryanyantam Tum Mastakam ||

Dehidwandam Sada Jihan Patu Shigreh Vacho Mam |

Kanthdesh Manah Patu Vachichatam Bahumulkam ||

Karya Sadhyadwandam Tu Karo Patu Sada Mam |

Mayayukta Tatha Swaha, Hridya Patu Sarvada ||

Ashtaadhik Chatwarishamdandadhya Baglamukhi |

Raksham Karot Sarvatra Grihranye Sada Mam ||

Brahmastrakhyo Manu Patu Sarvage Sarvasandhishu |

Mantraraja sada Raksham Karot Mam sarvada ||

Om Hreem Patu Nabhidesham Me Baglavatu |

Mukhivarnadwan Patu Linga Me Mushal-Yugamkam ||

Januni Sarvadushtanam Patu Varnapanchakam |

Vacham Mukham Tatha Padam Shadvarna Parameshwari ||

Jaghayugme Sada Patu Bagla Ripumohino |

Stambhyeti Padam Prishtham Patu Varnatreyam Mam ||

Jiharawarnadwayama Patu Gulfo Me Keelyeti Cha |

Padodharwe Sarvada Patu Budhim Padtale Mam ||

Vinashayapadam Patu Padangulyornakhani Me |

Hrim Beej Sarvada Patu Budhiindridyavachansi Me ||

Sarvagam Pranav Patu Swaha Romini Mevatu |

Brahmi Purvadale Patu Chagneyayam Vishnuvallabha ||

Maheshi Dakshine Patu Chamunda Rakshasevatu |

Kaunmari Pachime Patu Vayavye Chaparjita ||

Varahi Chotre Patu Narsinghi Shivvetu |

Udharv Patu Mahalakshami Patale Shardavatu ||

Ityashashto Shaktya Pantu Sayudhardh Sahavahna |

Rajdware Mahadurge Patu Mam Gannayak ||

Shamshane Jalmadhye Cha Bhairavadh Sadavatu |

Dwibhuja Raktavasna Sarvabharnabhushita ||

Yoginaya Sarvada Pantu Maharanya Sada Mam |

Iti Te Kathitam Devi Kawacham PArmadwatum ||

Baglamukhi – Puja Yantra

To make a puja yantra first of all make a trikona and mark a Shatkona on the outside followed by marking Ashtadal and Vrita on it. On its exterior, Bhupur should be used before presenting the yantra. The yantra should be used to write on a plate using eight different fragrances.

A person worshipping goddess Bagalamukhi possesses immense power. These mantras are very beneficial and ensures success if recited in the right way. Recitation of Bagalamukhi Kavach path is necessary before reciting Bagalamukhi mantra. Goddess Bagalamukhi is worshipped to attain victories over enemies and legal proceedings.

The devotee must wear yellow coloured clothes. Make a mala by tying number of knots consisting of turmeric in it and recite the mantra 1 lakh times.

Posted in Hindu Gods, Siddhia | Tagged , , , , , | 2 Comments

Durga Ashtami Mahavidya Puja – Durga Ashtami – Durga Ashtami

Posted on May 15, 2012 by astrobix

Ten Mahavidyas or incarnations of goddess Shakti are worshipped in several months in a year. The worship of these Ten Mahavidyas is also known for secret spiritual practices. It is believed that a person’s wishes come true by reciting Devi Strota path and offering black sesame seeds tied in a black cloth to goddess Dhumavati.

Although, spiritual practices of Mahavidya is mostly performed by Tantriks as a major part of their worshipping, but it also provide fruitful results to other devotees. The devotee can do meditation in an isolated place to make himself strong and seek place in the heart of the goddess.

According to the ancient scriptures, goddess Dhumavati tried to eat lord Shiva to satisfy her hunger. Smoke started coming out of her mouth and she became dull and ugly due to which  she is known as Dhumavati.

Goddess Dhumavati Mantra

  • Om Dhum Dhum Dhumavati Swaha
  • Om Dhum Dhum Dhumavati Than Than

As per the legends, goddess Dhumavati went to lord Shiva and asked for food to satisfy her hunger. On this, lord Shiva asked goddess Parvati to wait until he completes his meditation.

As the time passess by the goddeess becomes furious and tries to eat lord Shiva. As a result, smoke starts to come out of her mouth on which lord Shiva told her, “ because of the smoke emitting from your body, one of your names would be Ma Dhumavati and the moment you ate me you became widow.” Since then, goddess parvati is worshipped in form of  Dhumavati.

Significance of Durga Ashtami

Goddess Dhumavati’s appearance is scary and dangerous. She wears white clothes and keeps her hair open.

A glimpse of the goddess blesses the devotee with all pleasures of life. He becomes strong and dedicated. It is believed that the person  who worships her get relief from his enemies and fears. Every kind of obstacles in occult science gets destroyed and the person is blessed with special powers.

She is also known as Kalahpriya as she is considered to be the goddess of all the problems in the world. Chaumasa is a prime time to worship the goddess. Her appearance is very scary which she had adopted to kill the demons. She is a widow and has open and rough hair. The flag hoisted on her chariot has a picture of a crow. She holds a Shurp in her hands and is considered to be the karak of fears and kalah (problems). She is the core strength of saint Durvasa, Bhrigu and Parshuram. It is very difficult to please the goddess and the one who achieves it gets relief from all sufferings of life.

Posted in Fast, Festivals, Hindu Gods | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

Worship Lord Ganesha – Lord Ganesha – Lord Ganesha Puja

Posted on May 14, 2012 by astrobix

Chanting the name of lord Ganesha abducts all sufferings and every tasks are successfully completed. Ganapati is Adideva. It is believed, that the person who worships him gets freedom of all fears and sufferings of life that is why is lord Ganesha also known as “Ganapati”.

As per the description in the Rigveda,“ Na Kritey Twayam Kriyate Kim Chanare” i.e no work begins without the blessing of lord Ganesha. He is the Vedic Deva and each chapter of veda begins from his blessings only. He has a special significance in Vedic activities. The ancient scriptures have described worshipping of lord Ganesha by Lord Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva.

Lord Ganesha is a son of lord Shiva and goddess Parvati. He is also known as Vighna-Vinashak and Budhi Datta (giver of intelligence). In Indian Culture, every new work is commenced only after worshipping lord Ganesha.

Different names of lord Ganesha

Lord Ganesha is known with many different names. His different names reflect his forms and have similar impact on the devotees. Some of his names are ; Ekadanta, Sumuka, Lambodar, Vinayaka, Kapil, Gaj Karnak, Vikat, Vighan-nash, Dhumraketu, Ganadhyakshay, Bhalchandra, Gajanana and Ganesha.

Lord Ganesha Pujan

Lord Ganesha is the son of lord Shiva and goddess Parvati and Lord Kartikeya is his brother. Lord Ganesha has two wives Riddhi and Siddhi and two sons Shubh and Labh, but in South India he is considered to be a Brahmachari. He rides mouse. He is very fond of modak that is why devotees offer modak or ladoo as a prasad. The weapons of lord Ganesha are hook and loop. His four symbolize the four directions of ubiquity. His lambodar form signifies nomadic existence. Large sizes ears are strong and subtle eyes  are indicative of sharp vision. His long trunk is the symbol of high intelligence.

According to Hindu scriptures, worshipping lord Ganesha is considered to be sacred before commencing any task which is why he is also known as Aadipujya. It is believed that the person who worships him gets relief from all kind of troubles and obstacles in life rather attains happy and a prosperous life. Ganesha Chaturthi is celebrated every years in devotion of lord Ganesha. This festivals lasts for 10 days and celebrated as Ganesh Utsava. According to Shiva Purana, Lord Ganesha was born on Krishna paksha chaturthi of Bhadrapad month. This festivals commences from bhadrapad chaturthi and extends till Chandrodaya Vyapini Chaturthi of Krishna paksha. Devotees observe fasts during this time to please lord Ganesha and get relief from all sufferings of life. Wednesday is considered to be the best day to worship lord Ganesha. A person who worships him with full devotion and faith attains all pleasures of life.

Lord Ganpati Mantra

  • Om Gam Ganapataye Namah
  • Om Tatpurushaya Vighhe Vakratundaya Dhimahi Tanno Danti Prachodayat”
  • Om Shri Vidhnesharya Namah
  • Om Shri Ganeshaya Namah

Other than these mantras, reciting Ganesha Chalisa and Ganesh Vandana are also considered  to be beneficial. Remembering lord Ganesha and chanting his mantras give relief from all sufferings of life.

Posted in Hindu Gods | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

Vat Savitri Fast 2024 । Vat Savitri Puja

Posted on May 11, 2012 by astrobix

Vat Savitri fast is observed on Amavasya of Krishna Paksha in Jyeshta month. In the year 2024, this fast will be observed on 6th june, This fast is observed by women to attain happy married life and pleasure of children by women. There is a ritual of worshipping the Vat tree and idols of Savitri and Satyavan on this day due to which it is famous as Vat Savitri. In Indian culture, this fast has been considered as the symbol of ideal womanhood. Ancient scriptures such as Skanda Purana, Bhavishya Uttar Purana etc have detailed description about the rituals of fasting.

Savitri and Vat has been given a special significance in Indian culture and this fast depicts the fidelity of the a woman towards her husband and growth in fortune. It is believed that Lord Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesha resides in the Vat tree and the person who performs puja under this tree gets all his wishes fulfilled.

Lord Yamraj is also worshipped on this day along with Satyavan- Savitri. Married women observe the fast for the long life of her husband as Savitri brought back her husband from lord Yamaraja by performing this fast only. The person observing the fast should make idols of Savitri, Satyavan and Yamraj sitting on buffalo using gold or mud. Puja should be done with incense sticks, sandalwood, fruits, roli, saffron etc and the devotee should listen to Savitri-Satyavan story.

Vat Savitri Fast Story

Savitri has attained an honor of most respectable character of ancient times. She was born under some extraordinary circumstances. She was born to King Ashwapati after performing hard penance and austerities. King of Bhadra, Ashwapati did not have any child. He performed hard penance for many years to please the goddess. As a result, goddess Savitri got blessed with his penance and granted him the boon of a girl child. He named her daughter after the name of goddess Savitri.

Savitri was a virtuous woman filled with all good possible qualities. King Ashwapati was very upset as he was not able to find a perfect match for his daughter. One day he asked his daughter to look for a match for herself. Savitri set out on a pilgrimage for this purpose and met a blind king named Dyumatsena, living in exile as a forest-dweller. She found his son, Satyavan perfect to be her husband.

When Rishiraj Narada came to know about this, he approached Ashwapati and said “Your daughter did a big mistake in choosing her husband. Satyavan is talented and virtuous but, he has an ephemeral life and will die after one year of the marriage”. Hearing this, king Ashwapati’s face turned pale. ‘Vratha Na Hohi Dev Rishi Bani’ thinking this, king tried convincing his daughter to marry some other guy.

Savitri said to her father that an arya kanya selects her husband only once, and Kanyadaan also happens only once. She was stuck on her decision of marrying Satyavan no matter what happens after that. Listening to it, King Ashwapati agreed to their marriage. Ultimately, Satyavana and Satyavati gor ties into sacred bond of marriage. Reaching the house of her in-laws, Savitri got busy serving her parents-in-laws.

Time passed by and  the words of Narad were making Savitri impatient, day by day. When she came to known that the date of her husband’s death is coming closer, she started fasting from 3 days before. She did the Pitro Pujan on the day specified by Narad. Like every normal day , Satyavan went for cutting woods into the forest. Savitri took permission from her in-laws and went along with him on that day.

Satyavan climbed up a tree to cut its branches. Suddenly he started having unbearable pain in his head. He got disturbed and came down from the tree. Savitri understood the future and made her husband rest on her lap. She saw, extremely powerful Mahishasur Yamraj coming from the south direction. Savitri followed Lord Yamraja when he was leaving after taking the life of Satyavan. Initially, lord Yamraja explained her the Devi-Vidhan. But, seeing her loyalty, he told Savitri to ask for her wish.

She said “My parents-in-laws are blind and forester. Provide them their eyesight.” Yamraj granted her the boon and asked her to return back. She refused and said that she had no problem in walking after her husband, as this was her duty. Hearing this, Yamraj again said her to ask for another wish. She said, “ she wants her father-in-law to win back the kingdom he had lost in the war “. He again granted her the boon and asked her to go back. But she again followed him.

Then he asked her to wish for anything she wants, other than the life of Satyavana and return back to her home. This time Savitri asked to get blessed with 100 sons of Satyavana. Yamraj granted her this wish also and kept on walking. Savitri still followed him that made Yamraj furious.

Savitri told Yamraj that although he had granted her the boon of having 100 sons from Satyavana but this would not be possible without Satyavana.

Seeing the fidelity of Savitri towards her husband, he released the soul of Satyavana. Savitri returned to the tree under which Satyavan had died. He stood up from his unconscious state and both of them returned back to their kingdom happily. Reaching there they saw that their parents had regained their eyesight. Eventually, Savitri- Satyavana lived a happy life in their kingdom and enjoyed all the pleasures of life together.

A woman who hears to this story and observes the Vat Savitri fast  is blessed with a happy married life and long life for her husband.

Posted in Fast, Festivals, Hindu Gods, Hindu Maas, Hindu Rituals | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

Achla Ekadashi Fast 2024 – Apara Ekadashi Fast

Posted on May 10, 2012 by astrobix

Apra or Achla ekadashi fast will be celebrated on 03 june, 2024 on the day of Ekadashi during the Krishna Paksha of Jyeshtha month. This fast is believed to give auspicious and divine results. It also free you from all sorts of sins. Keeping this fast makes a person rich and wealthy. Such a person is also appreciated and receives fame. Keeping this fast gives auspicious results and free you from all wrong deeds.

Importance of Achla Ekadashi

According to the shastras, a person receives the same results by keeping Achla ekadashi fast as he receives on taking a bath in the Ganges during the Kartik month. The importance of Achla ekadashi is the same as taking a bath in river Gomti, visiting Sri Kedarnath, staying in Badri Ashram or taking a bath in Kurukshetra during the solar eclipse.

The results given by Achla ekadashi fast are equivalent to those provided by yagyas or donating horses, elephants, gold etc. Even donating cows gives the same results as fasting on Achla ekadashi. Achla ekadashi fast is a ray of light amidst the darkness of your sins. Therefore, a person keeping this fast is blessed in life.

Procedure of Achla Ekadashi puja

Special care is needed on the day of Achla Ekadashi puja. You should be totally devoted and dedicated toward the worship. This fast begins from Dashmi (tenth) date. You should be careful about what you eat from the beginning of this fast. On the day of Ekadashi, you should wake up early and take a bath before beginning the fast. You should then worship Lord Vishnu with complete devotion. In the evening time, you should worship Lord Vishnu again with flowers, lamps and dhoop. Offer food or sweets to Lord Vishnu and then distribute Prasad among other people.

Story of Achla Ekadashi Fast

A story has been mentioned about Achla Ekadashi in the religious scriptures. According to this story, there was a King named Mahidhwaj. His younger brother, Bajradhwaj, was not religious and was cunning. Bajradhwaj did not like his elder brother and was jealous of him. One night, he killed the King and buried his body beneath a Pipal tree.

The soul of the King started residing on the Pipal tree. All the people in the surrounding places were terrified of this. One day, a saint named Dhaumya was passing by and talked to the restless soul. He preached his teachings and the soul came down from the tree. The saint asked the King’s soul to keep a fast on Apra ekadashi in order to rest in peace. Hence, the King fasted and attained salvation.

Posted in Ekadashi, Fast, Festivals, Hindu Gods, Hindu Maas, Hindu Rituals | Tagged , , , , , | Leave a comment

Eight major accomplishments or Siddhis – Eight Siddhis – 8 Siddhis

Posted on April 27, 2012 by astrobix

Siddhis means accomplishments and the feeling of being complete. The path to attain Siddhis is very difficult and the one who achieves them can conquer the universe with his powers. Ability to earn unusual skills or powers is known as “Siddhi”. Attaining supernatural powers through mysteriously magical Siddhis, such as psychic vision, ability to reduce or increase one’s body size etc defines the real meaning of “Siddhis”

Many ancient books have described the importance of Siddhis. It is believed that the one who practice these siddhis regularly and with discipline is able to achieve the benefits of them. Siddhis are of two types: apara and para. They represents the prevalence of psychic powers and control of the senses. All kinds of perfect, moderate and vile Siddhis are known as Apara Siddhis. There are eight kinds of primary siddhis. Nothing is impossible for the one who attains these eight siddhis.

The description and significance of siddhis can be found in Markandeya Purana and Brahma Vaivarta Purana – Anima Laghima Garima Prapti Prakamyamahima Tatha – Ishitatva Ch Vashitavach Sarkamavashayita ||

Eight primary Siddhis are as follows:

Anima Siddhi

The ability to become smallest in size is known as Anima Siddhi. By attaining this siddhi the practitioner can reduce one’s body even to the size of an atom or even become invisible. He becomes supernaturally strong and congenial.

Mahima Siddhi

Mahima siddhi is the ability to expand one’s body to an infinite large size. By attaining this siddhi the practitioner is able to expand the size of his body larger than the universe. He can attain the power equivalent to god who has created the universe.

Garima Siddhi

The ability to become infinitely heavy is known as Garmia siddhi. The practitioner can make himself as heavy as he desires to be and cannot be moved by anyone or anything.

Laghima Siddhi

The power to become weightless or lighter than air can be achieved from Laghima siddhi. The practitioner can become any creature on this earth and enter into his body after attaining this siddhi.

Prapti Siddhi

The ability to construct anything is known as Prapti siddhi. The practitioner can achieve anything he desired through this siddhi. There is nothing impossible for him to get such as providing water in the deserted area.

Prakamya Siddhi

Prakamya Siddhi is the ability to become whatever the practitioner desires. The thoughts of the person changes drastically and experiences a flow of supernatural energies. By achieving this ability the practitioner is able to do anything he wants. He can fly in the sky or walk on the water.

Ishita Siddhi

Knowing all powers and getting a control over them is known as Ishita Siddhi. The practitioner is able to get control on all the elements of universe and possess absolute lordship. He gets the privilege to  practice lordship on anyone from states to empires. He gets converted into god himself.

Vashita Siddhi

Vashita or Vashikaran is the ability of getting a control on life and death. With the help of this siddhi one attain control over all kinds of  living and non -living things. The one who excels in this siddhi can influence any person on this earth.

Posted in Siddhia | Tagged , , , , , | 3 Comments

Om Mountain – Om Mountain Himalayas – Kailash Mansarovar – Aum Mountain

Posted on April 17, 2012 by astrobix

Om mountain is a sacred himalayan range that lies on the route to Kailash Yatra. It is named Om mountain as the snow deposition pattern gives the impression of ‘AUM’. Parvati lake originates from this place. It is believed that this holy place provides peace to the visitors and can convert an atheist into a believer.

Om Parvat is en route to the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra from the last camp below Lipu Lekh. Trekkers to Mt. Kailash often make a diversion to view Om Parvat. Its appearance is distinctly similar to Mount Kailash. Goonji is followed by the Lipu lekh from where the border of China can be seen. Kailash yatra is considered complete only after visiting the Om mountain.

Om mountain is covered with snow throughout the year as it is on a very high altitude. Trekkers taking rounds of the mountains have to go through many remote locations that are difficult to pass. Still, there has been a substantial increase in the number of people visiting the place every year. One has to fulfill certain formalities at the beginning of the journey. The first step is to attain a permit after which the trekker heads to Goonji followed by Jonglingkong Lake. Parvati sarovar and Mt Kailash are close to Jonglingkong.

It is one of the oldest mountain range in the world. Though covered with snow throughout the year, huge number of trekkers can be seen visiting the place every year.  People visiting Om mountain experience pleasure and peace.

Many ancient scriptures have described Om mountain in detail. Each mountain has at least one pilgrimage spot and there is a legend related to every route, forest and cliff. Both Buddhists and Hindus have their own legends and stories about this place.

Significance of Om Mountain

After Mount Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, Om mountain Yatra is considered as the most important and sacred journey. Kailash situated on this mountain is also known Chota Kailash. Parvati lake that flows from the mountain is also known as Gauri kund. It is believed that goddess Parvati used to take bath in this lake. Thus, every woman who visits the place also takes a bath in the Gauri Kund to get relief from the sufferings in life. Both these places are considered as holy as Mt Kailash and Mansarovar lake. The climate of Om mountain is extremely cold and the road is full of obstacles.

Om mountain is situated on the Himalayas which is known as the Land of Gods. It is one of the pilgrimage places where one can find a lake devoted to goddess Parvati and water springs originating from different parts of the mountain. Trekkers and pilgrims experience pleasure and peace on visiting this place. Many ancient scriptures have described the beauty and significance of this place, stating that it is one of the favorite spots of Lord Shiva. There are many legends present that describe the beauty and sacredness of the place.

Posted in Hindu Religious Places | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

Gaya – Gaya in Bihar India – Temples in Gaya India – Religious Places in Gaya

Posted on April 12, 2012 by astrobix

Gaya is a pilgrimage city of Bihar situated at the bank of river Falgun. People from all around the world visit this place to participate in Pitru-Paksha fair. Many people visit the temple during this time to offer prayers to ancestors for their salvation and peace.

Other religious places in Gaya situated on the bank of river Falgu are Vishnupad temple, Raamsheela, Akshayavata, Brahmayoni Parbat etc.

Sun temple of Gaya

Sun temple is situated at the bank of river Sona in Aurangabad district. As per the legends, the signs engraved on the stones of the temple signifies victory of Vishwakarma on arts.

It is considered one of the most important religious places where all the desires of the devotees gets fulfilled. Huge crowd can be seen on the occasion of Chatt festival. Fair is also organized on this occasion and almost everyone participated in it.

This temple is famous for its unique style of architecture. This temple is constructed by carving stones and faces the western direction.  It is believed that Vishwakarma constructed this temple himself.

According to the words inscribed on the pillars of the temple, King Ilaputra Purvaruva constructed this temple in 8th or 9th century.

Vishnupad temple of Gaya

Vishnupad temple is one of the oldest hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It considered to be a religious and sacred place of Hindus. During the period of Pitrapaksha a huge crowd of devotees can be seen in this temple. It is believed that the temple was built with the footprints of Lord Vishnu in the centre. n the bank of river Falgu pind daan is performed for the salvation of dead ancestors. The footprints of Lord Vishnu can be seen at the center of the temple.

Banaabar Mountain

Banaabar Mountain is in the northern side of Gaya . It is one of the most naturally beautiful and historical site of India. Banaabar mountain has its own historical significance. This place is also known as Gorathgiri. Caves such as Lomash rishi cave, Kana chaupar, Sudama cave, Vishwa hut, Gopi cave and Vaidantika cave are some of the important places of Banaabar mountain.

An ancient temple of Lord Shiva is situated at the highest peak of the mountain. A huge crowd of devotees visit this temple to offer their prayers in the month of Sawaan and on the day of Anant Chaturdashi. People also offer water to Baba Sidheshwar Nath during this time. There is a freshwater spring at the foothill of the mountain known as Pataalganga. Taking bath in this water spring is considered very important and people who visit the temple offer the water of this spring only to Lord Shiva.

Maurya Kaleen Cave and Sheela Lekh have also been found in this mountain. These caves have been made with big rocks and represents the art of ancient times. The seven caves of Banaabae mountain is known as Satgharva. Four caves are situated near to the mountain and the other three are on Nagarjuna Mountain.

Famous Chinese traveller Hosang and British author E.M Foster have also described this place in their writings. It has been honored as a Historical monument by Archaeological Survey of India.

Brahmaoni Mountain.

Gautam preached the aditya paryaya sutra on this holy mountain. Mahabodhi temple is one of the most ancient and famous temple for Buddha. There are many religious places and saint shelters on Patna Marg. Lord Buddha achieved his wisdom at this place. Rajgiri, Nalanda, Vaishali, Patliputra were some of the other centers of knowledge and wisdom in ancient times.

There is a small temple of Lord Shiva at the foothill of the mountain beneath a huge Banyan tree. It is believed that Falgu river used to flow from above this mountain in ancient time. But after being cursed by goddess Sita it started flowing at the bottom. It is a religious place for hindus and popularly known for pind daan.

Koteswarnatha

Koteswarnath Shiva Temple is situated at the bank of river Morhar in Mane district. People from all around the world visit the temple on the occasion of Shivaratri every year to participate in the fair organized.

Mahabodha Temple of Gaya is also one of the important religious place in Gaya. Lord Buddha achieved his wisdom at this place. Rajgiri, Nalanda, Vaishali, Patliputra were some of the other centers of knowledge and wisdom in ancient times. Gaya is a center of both hindu and buddhist culture situated at the bank of river Falgu.

Posted in Hindu Religious Places, Hindu Rituals | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

Sage Parashara – Mahamuni Parasara – Parasara Muni – Rishi Parashara

Posted on April 11, 2012 by astrobix

Sage Parashara was one of the most popular saint of ancient times. He was well known for his work and contributions made in indian culture. Sage Parashar performed many special austerities and hard penance to attain special powers and wisdom.

Sage Parashara was raised by his grandfather Vashishtha, since his father Saint Muni died before his birth. He was the father of Ved Vyas, also known as Krishna and Deepayana. Born in a family of great saints, he himself was able to become one of them.

Birth story of Sage Parashara

Sage Parashara was the author and speaker of Vedic scriptures. He was raised by his grandfather. When he grew up, he came to know of the death of his father at the hands of a demon and became very angry. He decided to take revenge.

He commenced a Yajna named, Rakshasa Satra Yajna for the destruction of demons. As a result, all the demons in the world including the innocent ones, started turning into ashes one by one. Seeing the consequences of the sacrifice, everyone tried to convince Sage Parashara to stop the Yajgna. Parashara sacrificed his Yajna on being preached by Sage Pulastya.

Story of Sage Parashara and Ved Vyasa

Ved Vyas was the son of Sage Parashara. There are many legends on the birth and life of Ved Vyas. He was born to Sage Parashara and Satyavati. Satyavati was also known as Matsyagandha as her body used to emit the smell of a raw fish.

Once Satyavati was accompanying him on a ferry to take him across the river. On his way, Parashara grew attracted to Satyavati and showed his desire to perform coitus with her.

On this Satyavati told him that, “ he belongs to a Brahmin family and she belongs to low caste. It won’t be good to have such a kind of relationship”. Parashara convinced her by giving her the boon of continuity of her virginity. Satyavati accepted his proposal and fulfilled his sexual desire.

Sage Parashara created a thick fog around the ferry that reduced the visibility to zero.  He also granted her the boon that the fragrance of the raw fish will turn into the finest fragrance that may emit from her.

He then took her to an island on the Ganges and in due course, they had a son who was named Vyasa. He was also known as Krishna as he acquired dark complexion. On the other hand, because he was born on an island, he came to be known as Dwaipayana and Veda Vyasa because he divided the Vedas and made them accessible to the humans

Compositions of Sage Parashara

Sage Parashara wrote and compiled many Vedic scriptures, especially on astrology. He laid down the principles of astrology.

There is a very popular legend in this context according to which Saint Maitreya requested Parashara to give him the knowledge of three parts of astrology i.e Hora, ganita and samhita. Out of all the three parts, Hora is the most important and was composed by Sage Parashara himself.

Many of the compositions of Rigveda are in his name. His compositions are Brihtaparashara Hora, Laghuparashari, Brihtaparashriya Dharmasamhita, Parashriya Dharmasamhita Smriti, Parashara Samhita Vadhyak, Parashariya Purnama, Parasharaoditam Nitishastratram, Parashararodanti, Vastushastrama etc. Kautilya Shastra has a decription of Sage Parashra. According to it, Parashara was a well known saint of ancient times. His compositions Brihataparasharahora has been included in various scriptures.

In these chapters , Rashiswaroop, Grahgunaswaroop, Lagna Vikshaleshan, Shodshavarg, Rashi Aspect, Arishta, Arishta Bhang, Bhaovivechan, Aprakash Grah, Grahsfut, Karak, Karak Shafala, Vividhyoga, Raviyoga, Rajyoga, Daridrayoga, Ayurdaya, Maraka Yoga, Dashafal, Vishesh Nakshatra, Kalchakra, Planet positions, Ashtakvarga, TrikonDasha, Pindasadhaana, Grahshanti etc has  been described.

Posted in Saints And Sages | Tagged , , , , | 2 Comments