BHOPAL [Maha Media]: On the auspicious occasion of the third Monday of 'Sawan Somwar', a grand Shri Maharudrabhishek was performed by 121 Maharishi Vedic Pandits with the Sankalpa of well being of our dear world family and creating much needed permanent World Peace in the divine presence of Hon'ble Chairman, Maharishi Educational Institutions Group, Brahmachari Girish Ji at Maharishi Utsav Bhavan, Bhojpur Mandir Road.

The ceremony drew a large and diverse audience, including directors, officers, employees, teachers, students, and devoted members of the Maharishi organisation. In the end, Prasad was distributed to all the attendees.

The event was broadcast live on Ramraj TV's website, YouTube, and Facebook channels, enabling people from different corners to share in the experience and receive the divine blessings of Devadhidev Mahadev Bhagwan Bholenath Shiv Shankar Ji.

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: On the auspicious occasion of the second Monday of 'Sawan Somwar', a grand Shri Maharudrabhishek ceremony was conducted to honor Lord Shiva at the enchanting Bhojpur Shiva Temple in Bhopal. 

Brahmachari Girish Ji, Chairman of Maharishi Vidya Mandir Schools Group, led the ceremony with 121 Maharishi Vedic Pundits with the Sankalpa of the well being of our dear world and creating much needed permanent World Peace.

The ceremony drew a large and diverse audience, including directors, officers, employees, teachers, students, and devoted members of the Maharishi organisation. In the end, Prasad was distributed to all the attendees.

The event was broadcast live on Ramraj TV's website, YouTube, and Facebook channels, enabling people from different corners to share in the experience and receive the divine blessings of Devadhidev Mahadev Bhagwan Bholenath Shiv Shankar Ji.

BHOPAL [Maha Media] On the auspicious occasion of the first monday of 'Sawan Somwar', Shri Maharudrabhishek was performed for Lord Shiva in the divine presence of Brahmachari Girish Ji, Chairman of Maharishi Vidya Mandir Schools Group at Maharishi Utsav Bhavan near Bhojpur Shiva Temple in Bhopal. 

In this religious event that lasted for about three hours, Ved Vidya Martand Brahmachari Girish Ji performed Maharudrabhishek of Lord Shiva with 121 Maharishi Vedic Pundits with Sankalpa of the well being of our dear world and creating much needed permanent World Peace. At the end of Shri Maha Rudrabhishek, Prasad was distributed to all the people present. 

On the third day of Guru Purnima Celebration, hon'ble Brahmachari Girish Ji said in his message that "Vedic Guru Parampara is the source of our knowledge and Shri Maharudrabhishek is done for the welfare of the world. We should work to take this entire knowledge tradition forward, this is the message and objective of our Gurudev Brahmanand Saraswati and Maharishi Mahesh Yogi ji to this world. All the members of Maharishi Sansthan are continuously working to fulfill the goals and resolutions of Maharishi Ji. We all are the carriers of this sacred knowledge and Guru Parampara."

This three-day Shri Guru Purnima Mahotsav program was jointly organised by Maharishi Vidya Mandir School Group, Maharishi World Peace Movement and Maharishi Ved Vigyan Vishwa Vidyapeetham. A large number of directors, officers, employees, teachers, students and all dedicated members of Maharishi organisation were present on this occasion.

With this, the three-day Shri Guru Purnima Mahotsav came to an end. The entire Shri Maharudrabhishek Yagya programme was broadcast live on Ramraj TV's website, YouTube, and Facebook channels.

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: Under the leadership of Brahmachari Girish Ji, the most dedicated disciple of His Holiness Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ji the auspicious day of Shri Guru Purnima was celebrated with full fervor and dignity on Sunday at Maharishi Mangalam Bhawan, MVM Ratanpur, Bhopal. 

Addressing the huge audience, Ved Vidya Martand Brahmachari Girish Ji said that today is a special day for all of us. We praise the Guru every day, and this Guru Purnima celebration ensures that our lives are always connected to the Guru throughout the year. It's not enough to just say "Jai Gurudev" to each other. We need to truly embrace Guru in our consciousness. Our Gurudev is Swami Brahmanand Saraswati. Maharishi Ji used to say that life is bliss, the bliss of Brahma, which represents complete knowledge. The essence of Brahma is knowledge. Your life becomes blissful only when you have this knowledge. Brahmachari Girish Ji further said that Maharishi Ji used to say, "Vedas are complete knowledge." He believed that without complete knowledge, life would lack discipline and be filled with distractions and disturbances, preventing satisfaction.

Girish Ji further said that yoga is a comprehensive science, not just a form of exercise. He emphasized that yoga covers a wide range of activities known as Ashtanga Yoga, and suggested that finding joy in yoga is key to finding joy in life. Our Guru's name is also associated with 'Saraswati,' the goddess of knowledge. Brahma embodies knowledge, and Goddess Saraswati is the force that enables knowledge to flow. We can only attain knowledge and happiness through our Guru's name. We don't have to look for anything else other than just Gurudev's name.

After the address, Brahmachari Girish Ji offers all the achievements of this year of Maharishi Organisations to the lotus feet of Shri Guru Dev Brahmananad Saraswati Maharaj and Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ji.

In the next session of the second day of three days Shri Guru Purnima celebration, Prof. Bhuvnesh Sharma-Former Vice Chancellor of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Vedic Vishwavidyalaya, V.R.Khare, Director CPR, Dr. Prakash Joshi - Vice President-Maharishi Shiksha Sansthan, Vaidya Madhusudan Deshpande, Founder Secretary Ojas Foundation also addressed the gathering and dedicated all the achievements of their department at the lotus feet of Shri Gurudev Ji and His Holiness Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ji.

Earlier, the Shri Guru Purnima celebration begins with Sri Guru Parampara Poojan, Vedic Shanti Path amidst the chanting of junior Vedic Pundits. After Guru Poojan, senior Vedic students presented melodious Guru Vandana and Saraswati Vandana. After all this, a video message from Maharshi Ji was shown. In it, Maharishi Ji talked about his journey with his guru, Shri Gurudev Brahmanand Saraswati Maharaj Ji. 

Mrs. Arya Nand Kumar, Joint Director of Maharishi World Peace Movement, Smt. Rita Prakasam, Joint Director of Maharishi Vidya Mandir School Group, Ved Prakash Tiwari, Director (Accounts), and V.K Jain, Director (Finance), were also present at the event.

Yesterday, on the first day of the three-day "Shri Guru Purnima Mahotsav", Bhajan Sandhya was performed by renowned Bhajan singers Purbasha Banerjee (Karmakar) and group. Purbasha Banerjee enthralled the audience with her melodious voice and performance.  

This three-day "Shri Guru Purnima Mahotsav" is being jointly organised by the Maharishi World Peace Movement, Maharishi Vidya Mandir Schools Group, and Maharishi Ved Vigyan Vishwa Vidyapeetham. This entire Sri Guru Purnima Mahotsav will be telecast live through various networks online, whose link is as follows:-

Website -www.ramrajtv.in
Youtube -htpps://www.youtube.com/c/ramrajtv/
Facebook - htpps://www.facebook.com/1/ramrajtv

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: Following the Holy tradition of Maharishi Organisation under the leadership of Brahmachari Girish Ji, the most dedicated disciple of His Holiness Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ji, the auspicious day of Shri Guru Purnima begins with full fervor and dignity at Maharishi Mangalam Bhawan, Maharishi Vidya Mandir School, Ratanpur, Bhopal on Saturday.

Three-day "Shri Guru Purnima Mahotsav" started with Guru Pujan by Vedic Pandits. In the first session of Bhajan Sandhiya, melodious Bhajans were presented by selected students and teachers of Maharishi schools of Bhopal. This filled everyone's heart with devotion. The students Ayodhya Nagar Bhopal presented ‘Tumhare Charno main Guruvar’, students of MVM Trilanga presented the Guru Bhajan, MVM Ratanpur students beautifully performed 'Gurudev hamara pyara'. In the last performance students of MCEE Lambakhera presented Om Guru Jai Gurudev'.

In the second session, Then Bhajan Sandhya by renowned Bhajan singers Purbasha Banerjee (Karmakar). Purbasha Banerjee was the lead singer, and she was supported by Anup Ghosh renowned tabla player, Keyboard player Kaustubh Rana Sarkar, Flute player Amar Bhola and  Pakhawaj player Manmohan Nayak enthralled the huge gathering by reciting Bhajans and discourses. Purbasha Banerjee encouraged everyone to sing and express their inner joy. Many in the audience joined in with singing.

Bramhachari Girish Ji- the head of Maharishi Group of Educational Institutions, former Vice-Chancellor of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Vedic University, Prof. Bhuvanesh Sharma, Shri V R Khare Director CPR, Ram Dev Deputy Director, Nilimp Tripathi also enjoyed the Bhajan Sandhya along with other distinguished guests, teachers and students.

This Guru Purnima festival is being jointly organised by Maharishi World Peace Movement, Maharishi Vidya Mandir Schools Group and Maharishi Ved Vigyan Vishwa Vidyapeetham. This entire Sri Guru Purnima Mahotsav will be telecast live through various networks through online, whose link is as follows:-

Website : www.ramrajtv.in

Youtube: htpps://www.youtube.com/c/ramrajtv/

Facebook:htpps://www.facebook.com/1/ramrajtv

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: Kurma Jayanti is celebrated on the full moon day of Vaishakh month. This time this festival will be celebrated on 23rd May, Thursday.

The story behind this festival goes that Lord Vishnu took the form of Kurma to help the gods and demons in the churning of the ocean. He is also called the Kachhapa Avatar. In the churning of the ocean, fourteen gems including Kalkoot poison, nectar and Goddess Lakshmi were obtained. According to Narasimha Purana, Kurmaavatar is the second incarnation of Lord Vishnu, while according to Bhagavata Purana he is the eleventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

Kurma incarnation took place for churning the ocean
According to the legend, once the gods became very proud of their power when Maharishi Durvasa had gifted a garland of Parijat flowers to Indra. Out of arrogance, Indra placed the garland on the head of the elephant Airavata. Seeing this, the sage got angry at Indra and he cursed the gods to become godless and destroyed their happiness and prosperity. 

Due to the power and influence of the curse, Lakshmi disappeared into the sea and all the splendor of the Sur-Asur world was destroyed. Saddened by this incident, Indra took refuge in Lord Vishnu. Lord Vishnu asked Indra to churn the ocean along with the gods and demons. Then as per the orders of Lord Vishnu, the demons and gods got ready to churn the ocean. For this, Mandarachal mountain was made a churner and Nagraj Vasuki was made the rope.

The gods and demons threw Mandarachal into the sea and started churning it, but since the mountain had no base, it started sinking into the sea. Seeing this, Lord Vishnu took the form of a huge Kurma (tortoise) and placed the Mandarachal mountain on his back and placed it in the sea. After this the mountain started rotating rapidly and the churning of the ocean was completed.

Importance of Kurma Avatar Jayanti
The scriptures give a lot of importance to this day. According to belief, starting construction related work from this day is considered very auspicious. On the occasion of Kurma Jayanti, Vaastu defects can be removed from the house and this is the best time for worshiping in the new house, land etc. and bad Vaastu can be changed into auspicious one.

When is Kurma Jayanti of Vaishakh month?
This year Kurma Jayanti will be celebrated on Thursday, 23rd May. According to religious beliefs devotees worship Lord Vishnu with all the rituals. By worshiping Lord Vishnu on Thursday, all the wishes of the devottes are fulfilled. Let us fins out what to do on this day to get the blessings of Lord Vishnu.

Do these measures on Kurma Jayanti
* The day of Kurma Jayanti is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, therefore, on this day, one should worship Lord Vishnu as per the rituals. Along with the worship of Lord Vishnu, there is also a tradition of worshiping Goddess Lakshmi.

* Tulsi is believed to be very dear to Lord Vishnu. Be sure to offer Tulsi to Lord Vishnu on this day. According to religious beliefs, offering Tulsi pleases Lord Vishnu and fulfills all their wishes.

* Offer satvik food to Lord Vishnu. If possible, include something sweet in the Prasad. 

* Donation made on this day gives manifold results. According to religious beliefs, donating yellow things on Thursday is considered very auspicious.

* By performing Aarti of Lord Vishnu, one gets his blessings and peace and happiness prevail in the house.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: In Hindu religion, before doing any auspicious work, an auspicious time or mahurat is determined first so that auspicious results are achieved of the hard work.

The auspicious time of every month is mentioned in astrology. Similarly, there is an inauspicious time in every month in which any kind of auspicious activities are prohibited. 

Panchak is among those inauspicious times. Panchak falls every month. This is a period of 5 days in which doing any auspicious work is prohibited. April is about to end, and May will begin in a few days. Let us therefore, know when Panchak will take place in the month of May and which auspicious works are prohibited during the Panchak period.

When is Panchak in May?
According to the Hindu calendar, Panchak in the month of May will start on May 2 at 2:32 pm. At the same time, it will end on May 6 at 5:43 pm. People will be prohibited to do any auspicious work during the period from 2nd to 6th May. During this period, the festival of Monthly Shivratri, Pradosh Vrat and Ekadashi will also be celebrated.

However, according to the scriptures, no auspicious work is done during Panchak but the same has no effect on worship or fasting. Therefore, in such a situation, one can worship during these three fasts without any hindrance.

What should not be done in Panchak?
1. According to astrology, construction work of a house should not be started in Panchak period. Apart from this, molding the roof of the house is also considered inauspicious.

2. One should not bid farewell to their daughter-in-law or daughter during the 5 days of Panchak. This may cause problems for them in future.

3. A new cot should not be made even by mistake in the 5 days of Panchak. This is considered inauspicious and can cause all kinds of problems.

4. Burning of dead bodies should be avoided during Panchak days. Doing this has a negative impact. If someone dies during the Panchak period, then five effigies of the dead body should be made of flour or Kush and kept with the bier and then cremated as per the rituals.

5. One should avoid travelling in the south direction even by mistake during Panchak days. There is a possibility of an accident if one does this.

How many types of Panchak are there?
There are 5 types of Panchak in Hindu religion. Among these, the Panchak starting on Monday is called Raj Panchak, the Panchak starting on Tuesday and Thursday is called Agni Panchak, the Panchak starting on Friday is called Chor Panchak, the Panchak starting on Saturday is called Mrityu Panchak and the Panchak starting on Sunday is called Rog Panchak. In May, Panchak will start from Thursday, hence it will be an Agni Panchak.
 

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: The  Brahmachari Girish Ji, Hon'ble Chairman of Maharishi Vidhya Mandir Schools Group on Tuesday greeted people on Vedic Nav Varsh, Chaitra Navratri, and Gudi Padwa.

Hon'ble Girish Ji shared his greetings with Sanskrit Shylok- Yaa Devi Sarva-Bhutessu Chetanety-Abhidhiiyate | Namas-Tasyai Namas-Tasyai Namas-Tasyai Namo Namah ||. 

Brahmachari Girish Ji said in his message, "Best wishes to all Indians on Vedic New Year, Chaitra Navratri and Gudi Padwa. Jai Gurudev Jai Maharishi !"
 

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: With the Divine blessing of His Holiness Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ji and the guidance of the Hon’ble Chairman of Maharishi Vidya Mandir Schools Group, Brahmachari Girish Ji, ‘Shivratri Mahotsav’ is being organised on March 8th with religious fervor and gaiety. 

The main celebration will begin on Friday from 4: 30 pm at Maharishi Utsav Bhawan, Gurudev Brahmanand Saraswati Ashram, Bhojpur Road, Bhopal with 121 Maharishi Vedic Acharyas. ‘Shivratri Mahotsav’ will be jointly organised by Maharishi Ved Vigyan Vishwa Vidhyapetham, Maharishi World Peace Movement, and Maharishi Vidya Mandir Schools Group.

All the directors of Maharishi Vidya Mandir Schools Group, Principals, teachers, faculty members, students, and parents will also be present in the puja of 'Shivratri Mahotsav'.

The ‘Shri Shivratri Mahotsav' will be telecast live on various social media platforms of Ramraj TV. 

https://youtube.com/c/Ramrajtv/
https://www.facebook.com/1Ramrajtv/
https://www.ramrajtv.com
 

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: Maharishi Organisations all over ‘Bharat’ celebrated the Shri Vasant Panchami Celebration and Puja, invocation of Shri Saraswati Devi- the Goddess of knowledge, music & arts with great fervor and gaiety on Wednesday. The main celebration was organised in the divine presence of Brahmachari Girish Ji, the head of the Maharishi Group of Educational Institutions and Maharishi Vedic Pundits, Acharyas, Students, Staff, and Devotees at Maharishi Utsav Bhavan in Gurdev Brahmanand Saraswati Ashram, Bhojpur Mandir Road, Bhopal.

The Shri Vasant Panchami Celebration started with Guru Parampara Pujan by Maharishi Vedic Pandits with Vedic procedure. On this occasion, the stage of Maharishi Utsav Bhawan was beautifully decorated with flowers. After Shodshopachar Puja and other Vedic rituals, Maharishi Vedic Pandits performed the Shri Saraswati Sahasranam Path amidst the chanting of one thousand names of Saraswati Devi.  Each name of Saraswati Devi refers to a quality of consciousness. Listening Sahasranam enlivens these qualities of Saraswati in the consciousness of the listener and at the same time, these qualities are charged in the environment. 

The two-hour-long puja concluded with the distribution of prasad. All the directors of Maharishi Vidya Mandir Schools Group, Principals, teachers, faculty members, and students were present in the puja of Goddess Saraswati.

The Shri Vasant Panchami Celebration will be telecast live on various social media platforms of Ramraj TV.

The link to watch the program is as follows -
https://youtube.com/c/Ramrajtv/
https://www.facebook.com/1Ramrajtv/
https://www.ramrajtv.com

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: Today on 10 February, Navratri of Magh month is starting. This Navratri is referred to as ‘Gupt,’ which means secret or unheard because it is worshipped in secret, and even this Navratri is not widely known. Magha Gupta Navratri is also called 'Shishir Navratri' because it falls between the winter months of January and February. It is an important occurrence for Sadhaks, tantriks and any person desiring to resolve materialistic problems. This Navaratri is for sadhaks and those who perform powerful and unique tantrik rituals for Shatkarma. Sadhaks are meditators, while Tantriks perform rituals. They observe nine days of Shakti worship. The fifth day of this festival is often independently observed as Vasant Panchami or Basant Panchami, the official start of spring in the Hindu tradition, wherein Maa Saraswati is worshipped. This festival which will last for nine days will see devotees worshipping 10 different forms of Goddess Durga and will last till 18th February. 

In Gupt Navratri, the sadhana of the ten Mahavidyas or the 10 different forms of Durga Maa is done by special seekers. During these days, common people worship and fast in the name of Maa Durga. This Magh Navratri is observed during the Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight) of Magh (January-February) month. 

The worship of the Dasa Mahavidyas (great wisdom goddesses) is given importance in Gupt Navratri. According to the Tantra tradition, the Dasa Mahavidyas originate from the aggressive and subtle forms of Maa Mahakali. Unlike other Navratris, we worship the Dasa Mahavidyas during the Gupt Navratri instead of the Nava Durgas.

These are the ten Mahavidyas 
Kali, Tara, Tripurasundari (Shodashi), Bhuvaneshwari, Chhinnamasta, Tripurabhairavi, Dhumavati, Baglamukhi, Matangi and Kamala. These Mahavidyas are divided into three groups. The first group consists of goddesses of mild nature – Tripurasundari (Shodashi), Bhuvaneshwari, Matangi, and Kamala.

The second group consists of goddesses who have a fierce nature and include - Kali, Chhinnamasta, Dhumavati, and Baglamukhi.

The third group consists of goddesses of mild-fierce nature and includes - Tara and Tripurabhairavi.

These Vidyas are worshiped in the order of Kaadi, Hadi, and Saadi. Kali, Tara and Dhumavati come in Kalikul. The remaining knowledge is considered to be of Srikul.

All knowledge has emerged from the same power. These ten Mahavidyas are also seen to be linked to the later stages of the origin of the universe. 

According to astrologers, if you want to do a special sadhana during Gupt Navratri, then you should consult an expert Brahmin because the rules of sadhana done during Gupt Navratri are very strict, and if any mistake is made then the sadhana can have an adverse effect. On the other hand, devotees doing normal worship of Maa Durga can visit any temple of the Mother Goddess during the nine days of Navratri. People should also donate things related to the education of small girls, like clothes, shoes, slippers, books, or money. This will double your blessings.

How to do simple worship of Durga Maa?
During these 9 days of festivities, devotees should get up early in the morning and after having a bath first of all they should worship Lord Ganesha in their home temple. They should also bathe Lord Ganesha. Then they should offer him garlands, flowers, and other worship materials and finally, they should offer him food. Finally, they should perform aarti by lighting incense sticks. After completing Ganesh puja devotees should start with the Devi puja. They should  invoke Goddess Durga in the idol of the Goddess, which means calling out Mother Goddess.

One should give a seat to Goddess Durga and bathe her. Bathing should be done first with water, then with Panchamrit, and then with water. Offer red chunari to Durga Maa and then one can offer jewellery, flowers garlands, perfume, and apply tilak with kumkuma and finally offer her red flowers. Devotees should also offer her rice, coconut, light incense, and lamps and do Parikrama after Aarti. While worshipping one should chant the mantra 'Dun Durgaayi Namah' while worshiping Goddess Durga. During the worship, devotees ask for her forgiveness for the mistakes made during puja. 

After the puja, offer prasad to those present and consume some of it yourself. One should provide food to little girls and also make donations for their education. 

Story of the origin of the Das Mahavidyas
Sati, the consort of Shiva was the daughter of Daksha Prajapati, a descendant of Brahma. Sati had married Shiva against the wishes of her father. The vain Daksha performed a great Yajna or Yagya (also Yagna) means “sacrifice, devotion, worship, offering” (with the sole aim of insulting Shiva), to which he invited all the gods and goddesses except his son-in-law, Lord Shiva. Sati learned about her father’s yajna from Narad Muni. She asked Shiva’s permission to attend the yajna, saying that a daughter did not need an invitation from her father. Shiva said that Daksha was trying to insult him, and so even if Sati attended the yajna, the fruit of the sacrifice would not be auspicious. Therefore, he requested Sati not to attend the yajna. 

This infuriated Sati – She thought that Shiva was treating her like an ignorant lady and not as the mother of the Universe. So, to show Shiva who she was, she assumed a different form – the one of the Divine Mother. The oceans raged, the mountains shook, and the atmosphere was filled with the wonder of her form. Shiva began to shake and tried to flee. But whichever direction he tried to flee; he was stopped by the divine Mother. The Divine Mother had multiplied herself into ten different forms, guarding each of the ten directions, and try as Shiva might, he could not escape from her, as she had blocked every escape route. These ten forms of Divine Mother are known as the Das Mahavidyas. Each form has  its name, story, quality, and mantras. 

Ghatasthapana Muhurat of Magh Gupta Navratri
Magh Gupta Navratri Pratipada Date - Saturday morning 10 February 2024 at 04:28
AM to Sunday night 11 February at 12:47 AM.
Ghatasthapana auspicious time - 10 February 2024, Saturday morning from 08:45
am to 10:10 am (total duration 1 hour 25 minutes)

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: Under the guidance of Brahmachari Girish Ji, Hon’ble Chairman, MVM Schools Group, the two-day Akhand Ramayana recital, which started on 21 January on the auspicious occasion of the consecration of Shri Ramlala in Ayodhya, concluded with Havan and Bhandara at Maharishi Utsav Bhavan, Brahmanand Saraswati Ashram, Bhojpur Mandir Road in the state capital on Monday.

On Monday, the Vedic Pundits of Maharishi organisation performed Pujan and Havan from 10 am. Then live telecast of the ' Shri Ram Lalla Pran Pratishtha' rituals was broadcast from Ram Mandir in Ayodhya on two Giant LED screens at Maharishi Utsav Bhawan. The program concluded with a Ram Prasad Bhandara. After sunset, the premises of Maharishi Brahmanand Ashram were decorated with hundreds of diyas and lights.

Brahmachari Girish Ji was not present at the two-day programme as he had gone to Ayodhya to attend the grand consecration ceremony at the Ram temple. On this occasion, all the directors of Maharishi Sansthan, teachers, staff, and people of nearby villages were present. This two-day program was jointly organized by the Maharishi World Peace Movement and Maharishi Vishwa Vidyapeetham.

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: ‘Maharishi Gyan Yug Diwas’ was celebrated with traditional fervor and gaiety on the birth anniversary of the most revered consciousness scientist Maharishi Mahesh Yogi at Brahmanand Saraswati Ashram, Chhan in the state capital on Friday.

On this occasion, while presiding over the seminar on “Establishing World Peace through Spirituality”, Brahmachari Girish Ji, a devoted disciple of Maharishi Ji and Chairman of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Sansthan, said, “It is a very auspicious day. This year, we all Focusing on development, we resolve to establish permanent peace through spiritual awakening. We all have to do this work with self-power. According to Maharishi Prabhav, move forward only with positivity so that the influence of negative forces can be eliminated. At present Maharishi Sansthan has 10,000 trained Vedic Pandits and a site has been constructed at Brahma Sthanam of India. We all awaken our consciousness by taking a dip in the ocean of consciousness in the morning and evening. Spiritual life is a matter of pride and glory. 

Brahmachari Girish Ji put forward his point and said, “Cultivating the power of the soul, wandering in it, listening to it, living in it, this is spirituality. Do everything at the level of the soul. There is no sorrow in the field of Transcendental Meditation. , there is no fear or danger. Invincibility is only at the level of consciousness. In which no negative force can enter and cause harm. By hiding everything in the self-consciousness, the body remains safe. This is valuable knowledge for us and this is the basis of spirituality. 

There is knowledge. All action power is contained in consciousness, therefore pour water into the root of consciousness.” 

After this, Brahmachari Girish Ji dedicated dedicated all the achievements of all the Maharishi Organisations of the year to the lotus feet of Shri Guru Dev and His Holiness Maharishi Ji and sought their blessings for new resolutions ahead. Hon'ble Chairman also dedicated Maharishi Sansthan’s Gyan Patrika, Mahamedia Patrika, Maharishi Panchang, Quarterly News Letter, E-Gyan and New Year’s Table Calendar at the feet of the most revered Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. 

Chief guest of the program, Madhya Pradesh’s Minister of State with Independent Charge, Krishna Gaur said, “If we all adopt each and every sentence of Brahmachari Girish Ji in our life, then the whole life will become meaningful and the credit for this goes to the global saint Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ji, whose birth anniversary we are celebrating today. There is not much difference between a spiritual person and a political person, both of them undertake to make everyone happy by working at the level of spiritual experience for the welfare of ‘Nar Narayan’.” On this occasion, she also gave best wishes to Brahmachari Girish and the institute. 

Speaking on this occasion, Professor Umapati Dixit, Head of the Department of Central Hindi Institute, said, “Before world peace, we have to know the peace of our mind. Today the fight for supremacy is going on in the whole world. We need to be united in our thoughts, words and actions.” We have to pay attention to small things. The solution to all material suffering lies in spirituality. The path to world peace can be paved through spirituality.” 

Present in the program, Director of Central Sanskrit University, Bhopal, Professor Ramakant Pandey, while presenting his views, said that “It is a matter of spiritual experience, spiritual knowledge can be obtained by the orders of Guru but it cannot be acquired only by bookish knowledge. Therefore, the whole world “The words and philosophy of global saints like Maharishi Mahesh Yogi and Swami Vivekananda can bring us world peace.”

After this, Vice Chancellor of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Vedic University, Professor Bhuvnesh Sharma and Acharya Nilimp Tripathi expressed their views. 

On this occasion, all the directors of Maharishi Sansthan were present on the stage. This two-day program was jointly organized by Maharishi Vidya Mandir School Group, Maharishi World Peace Movement and Maharishi Vishwa Vidyapeetham.

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: Maharishi Organisations throughout the world celebrated the pious occasion of 106th birthday of His Holiness Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ji, as Age of Enlightenment Day (Gyan Yug Diwas on Thursday. The main function was organised under the leadership of Brahmachari Girish Ji, the head of Maharishi Group of Educational Institutions with great fervour at Maharishi Utsav Bhavan in Gurdev Brahmanand Saraswati Ashram, Bhojpur Mandir Road, Bhopal.

The two-day Gyan Yug Diwas celebration programme begins with a ‘Bhajanamrit’ of renowned playback singer Nalini Nigam. Along with Nalini Nagam, globally acclaimed tabla maestro and composer Pandit Anoop Ghosh, renowned percussionist Satish Kumar Solanki, keyboardist Puneet Kumar and Atul Shankar famous flute player will enthrall the audience.Nalini Nigam, disciple of famous classical singer Savita Devi and Savitri Savnere delivered sermons and recited Bhajans. Nalini Ji first presented Guru Vandana to honour Maharishi Ji followed with famous Ram Bhajan 'Shree Ram Chandra Kripalu Bhajman', 'Ram Sumire' and 'Koan Kehta Hain Bhagwan Aate Nahi'.

Earlier, the first day of Gyan Yug Diwas celebrations started with Guru Parampara Pujan by Maharishi Vedic Pandits. After this 'Payo Ji Maine Ram Ratan Dhan Payo' Bhajan and melodious famous 'Ram Ayange' Bhajans full of devotion were presented by the talented students of Maharishi Vidya Mandir Ratanpur. The students of MCEE, Lambakheda, MVM Ayodhya Nagar also presented various devotional songs before the audience.

On this occasion, Prof. Bhuvnesh Sharma, Vice Chancellor, Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Vedic Vishwavidyalaya, Nilimp Tiparthi, Acharya, MVMs-Dr. Prakash Joshi, Director Communication and Public Relations- V. R. Khare, Director Accounts MVMs-Ved Prakash Tiwari, Smt. Arya Nandkumar-National Secretary Communication, and Smt. Rita Prakasham-Educationist and other dignitaries had a dignified presence. 

Second day of Maharishi Gyan Yug Divas, Hon'ble Chairman of Maharishi Vidya Mandir Schools Group, Brahmachari Ji will dedicated all the achievements of all the Maharishi Organisations of the year to the lotus feet of Shri Guru Dev and His Holiness Maharishi Ji and sought their blessings for new resolutions ahead. On this occasion a seminar will organised on the theme "Establishing Peace through Spiritualism". 

The two-day Gyan Yug Divas celebrations will be telecast live on various social media platforms of Ramraj TV.

The link to watch the program is as follows -

https://youtube.com/c/Ramrajtv/

https://www.facebook.com/1Ramrajtv/

https://www.ramrajtv.com

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: On the auspicious occasion of Shri Dev Prabodhini Ekadash, Brahmachari Girish Ji, Head of Maharishi Group of Educational Institutions performed a special Pujan of Lord Vishnu and Devi Tulsi with Maharishi Vedic Pundits and Vidhi Vidhan at Maharishi Utsav Bhawan, Gurudev Brahmanand Saraswati Ashram, Bhojpur Road in Bhopal on Thursday. The celebration is being organised in all Maharishi Organisations all over Bharat. 

Along with 11 Maharishi Vedic Pandits, Veda Vidya Martand Brahmachari Girish Ji worshiped Lord Vishnu with Vedic chants and invoked all the Devatas and Devies to bless the world on auspicious Mahurat.

Earlier, in his message Brahmachari Girish Ji greeted everyone on this auspicious occasion, “best wishes to all the fellow citizens of the world on Dev Prabodhini Ekadashi. May this auspicious day of awakening of all Devatas bring joy, prosperity, and spiritual awakening to the life of yourself and all your family members and friends. 

The programme will be televised on the following links:-
1.    https://www.youtube.com/c/Ramrajtv/
2.    https://www.facebook.com/1Ramrajtv/
3.    https://www.ramrajtv.com
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: The nation is buzzing with anticipation for Diwali, the Festival of Lights, which is scheduled to be celebrated with great traditional fervor on November 12 this year. 

In numerous states, the Diwali festivities extend for five days, with Dhanteras marking the festival's commencement. Dhanteras, also known as Dhantrayodashi or Dhanvantari Trayodashi, often falls on the calendar two days before the grand Diwali celebration. Teras, the thirteenth day of the Kartik month during the waning phase of the moon's cycle, occurs two days prior to Diwali. This day is associated with the revered ancient sage Dhanwantari, often considered the founder of Ayurveda. On Teras, people embark on fresh ventures, especially those related to finances, seeking the blessings of Yamraj, the ruler of the afterlife (Yamlok) and the deity of death, Lord Kubera, the god of wealth, and Goddess Lakshmi, the divine embodiment of prosperity.

The purchase of silver and gold jewelry or utensils serves as a symbol of welcoming Goddess Lakshmi and represents the pursuit of wealth and abundance. 

Dhanteras Date : According to Drik Panchang, the Trayodashi Tithi of Krishna Paksha aligns with Friday, November 10. As a result, Dhanteras will be celebrated nationwide on November 10. 

The Trayodashi Tithi will be in effect from 12:35 p.m. on November 10 until 1:57 p.m. on November 11. Dhanteras 2023 Shubh Muhurat : According to Hindu traditions, it is essential to carry out significant activities during an auspicious time, known as "muhurat," to achieve the desired outcomes. This year, the ideal period for purchasing gold or silver on Dhanteras falls within the Trayodashi Tithi, spanning from 12:35 p.m. on November 10 to 1:57 p.m. on November 11.

For the Dhanteras Puja, it is recommended to observe the Pradosh Kaal, which will be in effect from 5:30 p.m. to 8:08 p.m. The most auspicious time for the puja, or "puja muhurat," falls between 5:47 p.m. and 7:43 p.m. on Friday. 

Lord Dhanvantari Mantra: Om Namo Bhagavate Maha Sudharshana Vasudevaya DhanvantarayeAmrutha Kalasa Hasthaaya Sarva Bhaya Vinasaya Sarva Roka NivaranayaThri Lokya Pathaye Thri Lokya Nithaye Sri Maha Vishnu Swarupa Sri Dhanvantri SwarupaSri Sri Sri Aoushata Chakra Narayana Swaha 
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: Today marks the second day of Sharad Navratri. This day, people worship Maa Brahmcharini, one of the avatars of Maa Durga. According to Hindu scriptures, Maa Brahmacharini was a great Sati, and her form is symbolic of the severe penance carried out by Goddess Parvati.

Maa Brahmacharini wears white clothes, and holds a chanting rosary in her right hand and a kamandal in her left hand. It is believed that worshipping her increases the power of chanting and penance inside the person. Puja details

According to Drik Panchang, the Dwitiya Tithi of Shardiya Navratri will begin on October 16 at 12:32 am and end on October 17 at 1:13 am. For worshipping the goddess Brahmacharini, one can chant the mantra dedicated to the goddess -- " Om Devi Brahmacharinyai Namah". Also, dip the idol of Maa Brahmacharini in honey and milk and apply teeka on the forehead of the idol. A special bhog of sugar is also offered to the Goddess during Navratri.

Navratri means 'nine nights' in Sanskrit It is intended for worshipping Goddess Durga and her nine avatars, known as Navdurga. Hindus observe a total of four Navratri throughout the year. Only two of them, Chaitra Navaratri and Shardiya Navaratri saw widespread celebrations, as they coincide with the beginnings of the seasons.

In India, Navratri is celebrated in a wide range of ways. Ramlila, a celebration in which scenes from the Ramayana are performed, is organised in North India, mainly in Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh. The burning of King Ravana's effigies marks the conclusion of the story of Vijayadashami. The festival, which commenced on October 15, will last till October 24.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: The Hindu calendar welcomes Mahalaya on Amavasya Tithi during Ashwina Month on Saturday which marks the completion of Pitru Paksha and the onset of Devi Paksha. The glorious nights praising the Goddess start with the Mahalaya, the no-moon day (Amavasya) falling in the lunar month of Ashwin.

Amavasya has a great religious and spiritual significance among Hindus. Mahalaya Amavasya is mainly dedicated to ancestors and forefathers. Mhalaya Amavasya is also called as Sarvapitri Amavasya, Pitra Moksha Amavasya or Pitru Amavasya. Mahalaya Amavasya is the last day of the 15-day long Shraddha rituals. 

Mahalaya signifies the change from the Shradh period to the Navratri festivities. Navratri would thus commence on October 15 and extend up to the observance of Dusshera on the 24th of this month.

Mahalaya Amavasya 2023: 

Amavasya Tithi Begins - October 13, 2023 - 09:50 PM
Amavasya Tithi Ends - October 14, 2023 - 11:24 PM

Prayers and rituals
Mahalaya is observed with prayers to Goddess Durga in West Bengal and Mahishasura Mardini or Lalitambika in South India. Noting that the earlier period of Shradh involved the participation of men in most rituals, the phase after Mahalaya looks into females performing puja at the forefront. Special prayers dedicated to Devi are recited during this occasion to have a blessed festival.

Women keep a fast (as per their capacities) while chanting the 'Mahalaya Mahishasura Mardini' in the morning hours. Some extend the fast until sunset and break it with the evening aarti to Devi. Devotees also recite 108 names of Lord Vishnu, Mahadev, and Mahalakshmi on the Mahalaya day to seek their mercy and well wishes.

Mahalaya Amavasya 2023: Rituals
1. Wake up early in the morning and take a holy bath.
2. Clean the house and offer Arghya to Surya.
3. Prepare sattvik food at home and invite a Female and Male Brahmin.
4. Make him sit on the floor and perform the Tarpan ritual.
5. Offer the food to cows, dogs, ants and crows before giving it to Brahmin.
4. After completing the rituals, male members of the family must offer food, clothes and Dakshina to Brahmin.
5. Once the Brahmin Bhoj is completed, all family members can eat the food.
 

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: Hon’ble Chairman MVM Schools Group Brahmachari Girish Ji has conveyed his greetings on the auspicious occasion of Anant Chaturdashi and Ganesh Visarjan. 

In his message, Brahmachari Girish Ji said “Best wishes to all Indians on Anant Chaturdashi.”

The elephant-headed obstacle remover is coming to celebrate the 10-day festival of Ganesh Chaturthi. The Ganpati festival is celebrated in the honour of the god of new beginnings. The festival includes installation and worshiping of clay idols of the Ganesha in various public shrines as well as in household temples.

The 10-day festival is celebrated with huge pomp and fervor and ends on Anant Chaturdashi. Ganesh Chaturthi is the most popular and extravagant festival celebrated across India, but it is most elaborately celebrated in Maharashtra.

This auspicious day is dedicated to worship Lord Vishnu. Lord Vishnu is also known as Anant, which means endless.
 

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: Hon’ble Chairman MVM Schools Group Brahmachari Girish Ji has conveyed his greetings on the auspicious occasion of Rishi Panchami on Wednesday.

In his message, Brahmachari Girish Ji said “Best wishes to all Indians on Rishi Panchami.”

Bhadrapada Shukla Panchami is known as Rishi Panchami and is usually observed two days after Hartalika Teej and one day after Ganesh Chaturthi. 

Rishi Panchami is not a festival but a fasting day observed by women to pay obeisance to the Sapta Rishis which means seven sages and to get purified from Rajaswala Dosha.

Hinduism gives highest priority to purity and there are strict guidelines to maintain purity of the body and the soul. In Hinduism women are believed to be contaminated during their menstrual cycle. During menstrual cycle women are not allowed to enter in the kitchen for cooking, to participate in any religious activities and to touch any family members. Avoiding these guidelines creates Rajaswala Dosha. Rishi Panchami fasting is advised to get rid of Rajaswala Dosha.

Mythological Tales about Rishi Panchami
According to the mythological tales about Rishi Panchami, in Satyayuga, a Brahmin named Sumitra, who had deep knowledge about the Vedas, lived with his wife Jayashree. 

They earned their living by farming. Their son's name was Sumati, who was a complete scholar and a very hospitable person. When their time came, both of them coincidentally died together. Jayshree was reborn as a bitch and her husband Sumitra was reborn a bull. Luckily, both of them started living in their son Sumati's house. Once Sumati performed Shraddha for his parents. His wife cooked kheer to feed the Brahmins, which was unknowingly spoiled by a snake. The bitch was watching this incident. Thinking that the Brahmins who eat the kheer will die, she herself touched the kheer. Enraged at this, Sumati's wife beat the bitch badly. He then cleaned all the utensils and made kheer again and fed it to the Brahmins and buried its pot in the ground. Because of this the bitch remained hungry that day. 

When it was midnight, the bitch came to the bull and narrated the whole story to him. The bull said sadly - 'Today Sumati tied my mouth and plowed me and did not even let me graze on the grass. This is causing great pain to me too.' 

Sumati was listening to both of them and came to know that the bitch and the bull were his parents. He then fed both of them a full meal and went to the sages and asked the reason for the reason why his parents' were born as animals and how could they find freedom from that.

The sages asked him to observe fast on Rishi Panchami for their salvation. As per the orders of the sages, Sumati observed Rishi Panchami fast with full devotion, as a result of which her parents were freed from their animal life. 
 

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: Hon’ble Chairman MVM Schools Group Brahmachari Girish Ji on Monday greeted the people on the auspicious occasion of Hartalika Teej being observed today.

In his message, Brahmachari Girish Ji said “Many hearty wishes to all of you on Hartalika Teej, the sacred festival of good fortune and faith.”

‘Teej commemorates the eternal union between Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. On this day married women observe fast and pray for a long, healthy and prosperous life for their husbands. It also celebrates the bond of sisterhood, where married and unmarried women come together to perform various rituals and seek the blessings of Goddess Parvati.’ 

As per Drigpanchang, the auspicious time for the morning Hartalika Puja ritual begins at 06:07 AM and concludes at 08:34 AM, lasting for 2 hours and 27 minutes.

The Tritiya Tithi, marking the third lunar day, will commence at 11:08 AM on September 17, 2023, and gracefully conclude at 12:39 PM on September 18, 2023. This period carries great spiritual significance and provides an auspicious window for various religious observances.

History of Hartalika Teej:
The history of Hartalika Teej finds its roots in ancient Indian mythology. The word "Hartalika" is a combination of two Sanskrit words: "Harat" meaning abduction and "Aalika" meaning female friend. The festival commemorates the reunion of Goddess Parvati and Lord Shiva, following the efforts of Parvati's female friend to help her unite with her beloved.

According to Hindu mythology, Goddess Parvati undertook intense penance to win Lord Shiva as her husband. Her determination and devotion impressed Lord Shiva, and he agreed to marry her. However, Parvati's father, King Himalaya, was not aware of this union. He had promised her hand in marriage to Lord Vishnu. Faced with this dilemma, Parvati's female friend played a crucial role. She devised a plan to abduct Parvati and take her to a dense forest, where she could marry Lord Shiva in secret. This abduction occurred on the third day (Tritiya) of the bright half of the lunar month of Bhadrapada, which is now celebrated as Hartalika Teej.
 

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: Shri Krishna Janmashtami was celebrated with great pomp across the country on Thursday. People celebrated this festival by fasting, breaking dahi-handi, singing hymns, visiting temples, and praying together.

Shri Krishna Janmashtami Mahotsav was also celebrated with full rituals and gaiety at Brahmanand Saraswati Ashram, Bhojpur Mandir Marg, Chann in Bhopal. Under the divine guidance of Brahmachari Girish Ji, Hon’ble Chairman Maharishi Vidya Mandir Schools Group, 121 Vedic pundits performed the Puja rituals of Shri Krishna Janmashtami with Vedic tradition and chanting of Vedic Mantras. 

As per the tradition of the Maharishi Organisation, the celebration of the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth incarnation of Sri Hari Vishnu, began with Guru Puja. The entire celebration was telecast live on Ramraj TV's website, Facebook, and YouTube channels. Many devotees joined online and enjoyed the divine celebration of Shri Krishna Janmashtami Mahotsav.

Directors, officers, employees, and a large number of local devotees were also present on the occasion. After the puja rituals, prasad was distributed to all present.

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: Blending Indian culture with tradition, the birthday celebration of Brahmachari Girish Ji, the most blessed disciple of His Holiness Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ji and head of Maharishi Group of Educational Institutions, was celebrated with great joy and enthusiasm all over India. The main program was celebrated with great pomp at Maharishi Utsav Bhawan, Gurudev Brahmanand Saraswati Ashram, Bhojpur Road, Bhopal on Friday. Hundreds of people greeted him with good wishes and flower garlands. On this occasion, 'Bhajan Sandhya' programme was organised with renowned artists.

In his address, Brahmachari Girish Ji said that today is a very auspicious day not only for me but for all of us. Today I received blessings and good wishes from Jyotishpeethadheeshwara Jagatguru Shankaracharya Swami Vasudevanand Saraswati of Badrikashram, Himalaya, and other saints. All of you will also benefit from his blessings. Brahmachari Girish Ji shared how Gurudev’s words were a blessing for the entire Maharishi family. 

Recalling the 40 years spent under the guidance of Maharishi Ji, Girish Ji said that Maharishi Ji always used to announce new action plans and resolutions during festivals and celebrations. Birthdays are important in the lives of all of us. It is a celebration of our existence and a time to reflect on the past year and look forward to the future. Birthdays are a new start and a time to pursue new endeavors with new goals. The resolution taken on this day is also more likely to be fulfilled. With the guidance of Shankaracharya Ji Maharaj, it has been decided to celebrate today as a celebration of entering the Golden Jubilee Decade of Enlightening journey in the lotus feet of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ji.

On this occasion, Honorable Brahmachari Ji introduced his childhood friends and many dignitaries who had touched his life journey of 40 years under the guidance of Maharishi Ji. Girish Ji welcomed them all by giving them a bouquet and his new book 'Pujya Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ki Daiviya Chhatrachhaya Me'.

After the memorable address of Hon'ble Girish Ji, Prof. Bhuvnesh Sharma, Vice Chancellor - Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Vedic Vishwavidyalaya, and Dr. TPS Kandra, Vice Chancellor Maharishi University of Management & Technology wished Brahmachari Ji on his birthday and shared their experiences with everyone.

On this occasion, the Directors of Maharishi Vidya Mandir Schools Group, staff, Teachers, and students were present and enjoyed the 3-hour long “Bhajan Sandhya” programme with all pleasure and religious fervor.

The auditorium of Maharishi Mangalam Bhavan turned devotional with the melodious bhajans presented by renowned artists Pandit Pasnath and Sumana Chakraborty.

At the end of the program CPR Director V.R. Khare expressed gratitude to all the people present on behalf of Maharishi Institute.
 

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: On the auspicious occasion of the second Monday of the holy month of Shraavan and Somvati Amavasya, Hon’ble Brahmachari Girish Ji, the head of Maharishi Group of Educational Institutions performed Maharudrabhishek Poojan at Maharishi Utsav Bhavan, Brahmanand Saraswati Aashram, Chhan in Bhopal. 
 
Brahmachari Girish Ji offered Vilva Patra, lotus flowers, and other offerings to Lord Shiva and then performed Rudrabhishek with water, milk, honey, and other ingredients. In the midst of the recitation of Vedic mantras by 121 Vedic Pundits of the Maharishi Organisation, Brahmachari Girish Ji performed Havan and Aarti after Rudrabhishek.

This year Maharudrabhishek Poojan will be organised on every Monday from 3:00 pm during the month of Shraavan. Along with the directors, teachers, staff members, students, parents, and distinguished guests were present on this pious occasion. Prasad was also distributed after Havan and Aarti.
 

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: On the auspicious occasion of the first Monday of the holy month of Shraavan, Hon’ble Brahmachari Girish Ji, the head of Maharishi Group of Educational Institutions performed Maharudrabhishek Poojan at Maharishi Utsav Bhavan, Brahmanand Saraswati Aashram, Chhan in Bhopal. 
 
Brahmachari Girish Ji offered flowers to Lord Shiva and performed Rudrabhishek with holy leaves, water, milk, honey, and other ingredients. Following the Vedic tradition, the 121 Vedic Pundits of the Maharishi Organisation completed the ritual of Rudrabhishek by chanting the Vedic Mantras.

There are years of tradition of performing Maharudrabhishek Yagya during Shravan month at Maharishi Sansthan. This year Maharudrabhishek Poojan will be organised on every Monday from 3:00 pm during the month of Shraavan.

Along with the directors, teachers, staff members, students, parents, and distinguished guests were present on this pious occasion. Prasad was also distributed after Havan and Aarti.
 

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: “Guru is Brahma, Guru is Vishnu, Guru is equal to Lord Shiva, and Guru is the supreme god. So, I bow before him.” As every God is worshiped by his thousands of names and the Guru is considered to be superior to all of them. That is why it is also said that thousands of Gods are present in the Gurus. We all worship the feet of the Guru because the happiness and knowledge of the whole world are at his feet only. That's why we dedicate our everything to his lotus feet. There is no ‘Tatva’ bigger than Guru. If Guru's grace is on someone, it remains even after his death, this was said by Bramhachari Girish Ji- the head of Maharishi Group of Educational Institutions during "Shri Guru Purnima Mahotsav at Maharishi Mangalam Bhavan, Maharishi Vidya Mandir School, Ratanpur, Bhopal on Monday.

Urging the students and youth of Maharishi Sangathan, Brahmachari Girish Ji said that there are many resolutions of Maharishi Ji which are yet to be fulfilled, so take a pledge to fulfill them and take them forward. And spread the knowledge of Maharishi Ji and Transcendental Meditation to the world. In a very short span of their lives, Gurudev Brahmanand Saraswati Ji and Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ji hoisted the flag of Dharma in the world and introduced the world to Vedic knowledge and Transcendental Meditation. Today all of you have different means of communication and transport, so you can easily take Maharishi Ji's knowledge and Indian Vedic knowledge to every corner of the world. All of you should do this work responsibly so that peace can be established in the whole world.

After the address of Brahmachari Girish Ji, Dr. Prakash Joshi - Vice President-Maharishi Shiksha Sansthan, Prof. Bhuvnesh Sharma-Vice Chancellor of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Vedic Vishwavidyalaya,  Col. (Retd.) Dr. T.P.S.Kandra, Vice Chancellor of MMYIM&T also addressed the gathering and dedicated all the achievements of their department at the lotus feet of Shri Gurudev Ji and His Holiness Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ji.

Earlier, Sri Guru Purnima celebration begins with Sri Guru Parampara Poojan, Vedic Shanti Path amidst the chanting of Vedic Pundits. After Guru Poojan, girl students of Maharishi Vidya Mandir School, Ratanpur presented a Guru Vandana. Two students, Sunny Sharma from Ratanpur School and Paridhi from MCEE Lambakheda School gave their lectures on Maharishi Ji and his achievements.

A documentary on Gurudev Brahmanand Saraswati was also presented on this occasion. The 150 episode documentary will be aired daily on Aastha TV from today.

V.R.Khare, Director CPR, Smt. Rita Prakasam, Joint Director of Maharishi Vidya Mandir School Group, Ved Prakash Tiwari, Director (Accounts), Mrs. Arya Nand Kumar, Joint Director of Mandir School Group were also present at the event.

This Guru Purnima festival is being jointly organised by Maharishi World Peace Movement, Maharishi Vidya Mandir Schools Group and Maharishi Ved Vigyan Vishwa Vidyapeetham. This entire Sri Guru Purnima Mahotsav will be telecast live through various networks through online, whose link is as follows:-

Website -www.ramrajtv.in
Youtube -htpps://www.youtube.com/c/ramrajtv/
Facebook - htpps://www.facebook.com/1/ramrajtv

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: Maharishi Group of Educational Institutions, under the patronage of Chairman, Brahmachari Girish Ji, organised the Maha Alumni Meet-"Sangam 2023" at Maharishi Manglam Bhawan, Maharishi Vidhya Mandir School Campus, Ratanpur, Bhopal on Sunday.

In his presidential address, Chairman of Maharishi Vidya Mandir Schools Group, Brahmachari Girish Ji said that it is a matter of great pleasure that you all are doing well in the second phase of your life, your professional life. But wherever you go in the world, always stay connected to your roots. I have full hope that our alumni of Maharishi Schools will spread the pride of country all over the world. Such events not only help alumni to meet their friends and colleagues but also to share their professional experiences and takes blessing from Teachers and Parents. These are the people from whom we learn, interact and reach our goals in life. This is our true Indian tradition.

Earlier the Maha Alumni -2023 programme started with Guru Poojan followed by the Chanting of  Vedic Pundits. After Guru Poojan, girl students of Maharishi Vidya Mandir School, Ratanpur presented a welcome song.

V.R.Khare, Director CPR, Smt. Rita Prakasam, Joint Director of Maharishi Vidya Mandir School Group, Ved Prakash Tiwari, Director (Accounts), Mrs. Arya Nand Kumar, Joint Director of Mandir School Group were also present at the event.
 

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: TWO-day "Shri Guru Purnima Mahotsav" begin with Bhajan Sandhya by renowned Bhajan singers Laxmikant Kandpal and Tarang Kandpal at Maharishi Mangalam Bhawan, Maharishi Vidya Mandir School, Ratanpur, Bhopal on Sunday.

Bramhachari Girish Ji- the head of Maharishi Group of Educational Institutions, Vice-Chancellor of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Vedic University, Prof. Bhuvanesh Sharma, Vice-Chancellor of MUMT Bilaspur Colonel (Retd) T.P.S. Kandra, Dr. Prakash Joshi, Executive Director-Maharishi Vidya Mandir Schools Group also enjoyed the Bhajan Sandhya along with other distinguished guests, teachers and students.

Along with Laxmikant Kandpal and Tarang Kandpal, Santoor player Piyush Pawar, Tabla player Manoj Kumar Nagar and percussionist Anurodh Jain enthralled the audience with their melodious performances.

This Guru Purnima festival is being jointly organised by Maharishi World Peace Movement, Maharishi Vidya Mandir Schools Group and Maharishi Ved Vigyan Vishwa Vidyapeetham. This entire Sri Guru Purnima Mahotsav will be telecast live through various networks through online, whose link is as follows:-

Website -www.ramrajtv.in
Youtube -htpps://www.youtube.com/c/ramrajtv/
Facebook - htpps://www.facebook.com/1/ramrajtv
 

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: For Maharishi Shiksha Sansthan, the month of July is dedicated to Gurudev Brahmanand Saraswati Ji and His Holiness Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ji. Like every year, this year also, the Maharishi organisation will celebrate the two-day grand celebration of "Shri Guru Purnima Mahotsav" on 2 and 3 July with great joy and pomp. Every year, the celebration of Shri Guru Purnima Mahotsav brings cheers and happiness. The students, teachers and parents are more excited to take part physically in such celebrations.

The main function be held at Maharishi Mangalam Bhawan, Maharishi Vidya Mandir School, Ratanpur, Bhopal will be presided over by Bramhachari Girish Ji- the head of Maharishi Group of Educational Institutions.  Vice-Chancellor of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Vedic University, Prof. Bhuvanesh Sharma, Vice-Chancellor of MUMT Bilaspur Colonel (Retd) T.P.S. Kandra, Dr. Prakash Joshi, Executive Director-Maharishi Vidya Mandir Schools Group will also grace the two-day event along with other distinguished guests.

On the first day, July 2, Bhajan Sandhya was organised from 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm, where renowned Bhajan singer Laxmikant Kandpal and Tarang Kandpal along with renowned Santoor Player Piyush Pawar, Tabla player Manoj Kumar Nagar and Percussionist Pravesh Jain will Bhajan Sandhya will be organized on the first day from 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm, in which renowned Bhajan singers Laxmikant Kandpal and Tarang Kandpal as well as renowned Santoor player Piyush Pawar, Tabla player Manoj Kumar Nagar and percussionist Anurodh Jain will enthrall the audience with their melodious performances.

On July 3, Monday, the Sri Guru Purnima celebration will begin with Sri Guru Parampara Poojan, Vedic Shanti Path, followed by the welcome of distinguished guests amidst the chanting of Vedic Pundits. The main attraction of the event will surely be the address of Brahmachari Girish Ji, which everyone is always waiting for. After that other dignitaries will also address the gathering remembering the Guru on this special day. On this occasion, the heads and directors of various Maharishi institutions will offer all the achievements of the year at the lotus feet of Gurudev Brahmanand Saraswati Ji and His Holiness Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ji.

This Guru Purnima festival is being jointly organised by Maharishi World Peace Movement, Maharishi Vidya Mandir Schools Group and Maharishi Ved Vigyan Vishwa Vidyapeetham. This entire Sri Guru Purnima Mahotsav will be telecast live through various networks online, whose link is as follows:-

Website -www.ramrajtv.in
Youtube -www.youtube.com/c/ramrajtv/
Facebook - www.facebook.com/1/ramrajtv
 

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: With the Divine blessings of His Holiness Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ji, Maharishi Sansthan will organise the celebration of the most auspicious day of ‘Akshaya Tritiya' – the day of Ever Lasting Achievements.

The main function will be organised at Maharishi Utsav Bhavan, Bhopal under the leadership of Hon’ble Chairman MVM Schools Group Brahmachari Girish Ji at Maharishi Utsav Bhavan, Bhopal on Sunday.

With the ‘Sankalpa’ of this year's Akshay Tritiya celebration ‘World Peace and Prosperity’, Brahmachari Girish Ji will perform the Poojan of Bhagwan Vishnu Ji with chanting of Maharishi Vedic Pundits. 

The Muhurt of Poojan is from 1.39 pm.

Maharishi Organisation will also celebrate Foundation Day of "Sahasrasheersha Purusha Mandal'' (SPM) on the same day.

Hon’ble Chairman MVM Schools Group Brahmachari Girish Ji will address the gathering after the Poojan of Bhagwan Vishnu Ji.

The Poojan and Hon’ble Chairman’s address will be telecasted on www.ramrajtv.com.

Directors of Maharishi Vidya Mandir Schools Group, Principal, teachers, MWPM members, staff, students, parents, TM practitioners and civil society members will also be present on this special occasion.

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: Hon’ble Chairman MVM Schools Group Brahmachari Girish Ji on Saturday greeted the people on the auspicious occasion of Akshaya Tritiya Mahotsav and Parshuram Prakatotsav.

In his message, Brahmachari Girish Ji said that “Many congratulations to the people on the occasion of Akshaya Tritiya Mahatsav and Parshuram Prakatotsav.  I pray that this special day brings prosperity in everyone’s lives.”

Parshuram Jayanti is also celebrated as Akshaya Tritiya which marks the day of the birth of Lord Parshuram. The sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, Lord Parshuram descended on earth to save it from the barbarity of the Kshatriyas. The day is celebrated as Parshuram Jayanti in most parts of the country.

As per the Hindu calendar, Parashurama Jayanti falls on the Tritiya (third day) of ‘Shukla Paksha’ in Vaisakh. 
 

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: Shree Hanuman Jayanti, the birth celebration of Lord Hanuman is celebrated with great fervor and religious gaiety at Maharishi Utsav Bhawan, Shri Gurudev Brahmanand Sarawati Ashram, Chhan, Bhojpur Mandir Marg, Bhopal on Thursday. 

On this auspicious occasion, Hanuman Ji Janmotsav Poojan was performed by Brahmachari Girish Ji, the head of Maharishi Group of Educational Institutions with chanting of 121 Maharishi Vedic Pundits. 

An hour-long Hanuman Ji Janmotsav Poojan starts with the Pujan & Maha-Abhishek of Lord Hanuman followed by Maha-Aarti. Prof. Bhuvnesh Sharma, Vice Chancellor-Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Vedic Vishwavidyalaya, and other members of the Maharishi family were present in large numbers. Many people also watched this program online through various channels of Ram Raj TV.

Hanuman Jayanti is an important festival of Hindus and is celebrated to commemorate the birth of Lord Hanuman, the 11th incarnation of Lord Shiva. Hanuman Jayanti falls on Chaitra Shukla Purnima (the March-April full moon day). In Hinduism, Lord Hanuman is seen as the symbol of strength and energy. 

According to the texts, Lord Hanuman had incarnated on earth as a part of Adidev Shiva to help Lord Shri Ram. Lord Hanuman is one of the most revered deities in Kalyuga. The worship of Lord Hanuman is preceded by observing purity as he followed the path of celibacy.
 

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: Brahmachari Girish Ji, the head of Maharishi Group of Educational Institutions on Saturday extended greetings to all on the auspicious occasion of Maha Shivratri.

In his message, Brahmachari Girish Ji wished “Many many warm wishes to all of you on Maha Shivratri. Jai Gurudev, Jai Maharishi”.

Maha Shivratri marks a remembrance of overcoming darkness and ignorance in life and the world. It is observed by Hindus on the 14th day of every lunar month or the day before the new moon. On this occasion, devotees keep a day-long fast and break it only after completion of the ritual in Shiva temples.

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: The 106th birth anniversary of His Holiness Maharshi Mahesh Yogi Ji was celebrated as 'Gyan Yug Diwas' at Maharishi Utsav Bhawan, Gurudev Brahmanand Saraswati Ashram, Chhan, Bhojpur Mandir Road, Bhopal under the leadership of Brahmachari Girish Ji, the head of Maharishi Group of Educational Institutions on Thursday with great fervor and religious gaiety amidst chanting of Vedic mantras. 

While presiding over the program, Brahmachari Girish Ji,   said that "Maharishi Ji's birthday is an excellent occasion for members of the Maharishi World Family to celebrate, congratulate each other, and thank His Holiness Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ji for the knowledge of Transcendental Meditation. We are grateful to him and we all deserve to be congratulated because the whole world has got joy and happiness because of Maharishi Ji. Maharishi introduced millions of people around the world to the Indian Vedic knowledge tradition, which brought them happiness, joy and achievement. And through the Transcendental Meditation program, there was an awakening of consciousness all over the world. The whole world will always be indebted to him for these works."

Brahmachari Girish Ji said that consciousness is the field of all possibilities. It is also the home of all the laws of nature. Consciousness is at the core of our body. It also conducts our life, if it is lacking in our body and life then that body has no value. Maharishi Ji attained knowledge for 13 years from Brahmanand Saraswati Ji Maharaj. He traveled to about 124 countries and spread the knowledge of the Indian Vedic knowledge tradition and transcendental meditation.

Ved Vidya Martand Brahmachari Ji further said that the credit for establishing yoga on the world stage also goes to Maharishi ji. Earlier people did not know about its 40 areas of yoga. Maharishi gave a detailed explanation of these 40 areas of yoga and gave its knowledge to the world. Maharishi Ji believed in the principle of 'the world is my family'. Maharishi Ji said that if even a single person is not prosperous and happy then it is a matter of sorrow for the whole world. Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha are the birthright of everyone. Maharishi Ji made a deep study of the Vedas and wrote thousands of books and articles on almost every subject of life for the welfare of the people and the establishment of peace in the world. His old videos and articles are a unique gift to the entire mankind.

Expressing his views on today's seminar "Role of politics in the establishment of world peace", Brahmachari Ji said that it is mentioned in our Vedic literature and history and proved that world peace is possible even through politics. A video was played on this occasion, in which Maharishi Ji gave his views on politics, explaining this video, Girish Ji said that politics should be such that the king arranges for each of his subjects in the same way as a father does for his son. A Guru always wants to see his disciple higher than himself and a father always wants to see his son ahead of himself. Similarly, the king should keep his subjects above himself. This is the Vedic administration system. Rigveda is called the constitution of the universe. If every government adjusts its system according to the laws of nature, there will never be any shortage in any field.

Earlier, the first day of Gyan Yug Diwas celebrations started with Guru Parampara Pujan, Shanti Path, and the welcoming of guests by Maharishi Vedic Pandits. After this Ganesh Vandana was presented by the students of Maharishi Vidya Mandir Ratanpur. On this occasion, a seminar was organised on the theme "Role of Politics in Establishing World Peace". 

Shri Prahlad Singh Patel, Union Minister of State for Food Processing Industries and Jal Shakti, Shri Vishwas Sarang, Cabinet Minister of MP Government, Medical Education, Bhopal Gas Tragedy Relief & Rehabilitation and Shri Rameshwar Sharma, MLA from Huzur Vidhan Sabha constituency graced the occasion with their brilliant speeches.

On this occasion, along with distinguished guests Brahmachari Ji released Gyan magazine, E-Gyan monthly newsletter, Maharishi World Peace Movement’s newsletter, Maharishi Panchang 2023, Table Calendar and Maha Media Magazine of January month. Girish Ji also wished everyone a Happy New Year, the New Year calendar for the Maharishi family begins with the Gyan Yug Diwas (Age of Enlightenment Day).

Vice-Chancellor of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Vedic University, Prof. Bhuvanesh Sharma and Vice-Chancellor of MUMT Bilaspur Colonel (Retd) T.P.S. Kandra, Executive Director, MVMs-Dr. Prakash Joshi, Director Communication and Public Relations- V. R. Khare, Director Accounts MVMs-Ved Prakash Tiwari, Smt. Arya Nandkumar-National Secretary Communication, and Smt. Rita Prakasham-Educationist and other dignitaries had a dignified presence. 

The two-day Gyan Yug Diwas celebration programme will conclude on Friday with a ‘Bharajamrit’ of renowned playback singer Vidhi Sharma.  Along with Vidhi Sharma, globally acclaimed tabla maestro and composer Pandit Anoop Ghosh, renowned percussionist Satish Kumar Solanki and keyboardist Pawan Kumar will enthrall the audience.

The two-day Gyan Yug Divas celebrations will be telecast live on various social media platforms of Ramraj TV.

The link to watch the program is as follows -
https://youtube.com/c/Ramrajtv/
https://www.facebook.com/1Ramrajtv/
https://www.ramrajtv.com

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: On the auspicious occasion of the 106th birthday of His Holiness Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ji, the Maharishi organisation will celebrate a two-day grand celebration on 12 and 13 January as Gyan Yug Diwas with full fervor and dignity.

The main function be held at Maharishi Utsav Bhawan, Gurudev Brahmanand Saraswati Ashram, Chhan, Bhojpur Mandir Road, Bhopal will be presided over by Bramhachari Girish Ji- the head of Maharishi Group of Educational Institutions.  

On the first day of the two-day celebration, a seminar will be organised on January 12 on the theme "Role of Politics in Establishing World Peace". Shri Prahlad Singh Patel, Union Minister of State for Food Processing Industries and Jal Shakti, Shri Vishwas Sarang, Cabinet Minister of MP Government, Medical Education, Bhopal Gas Tragedy Relief & Rehabilitation and Shri Rameshwar Sharma, MLA from Huzur Vidhan Sabha constituency will also grace the occasion with their brilliant speeches.

Vice-Chancellor of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Vedic University, Prof. Bhuvanesh Sharma and Vice-Chancellor of MUMT Bilaspur Colonel (Retd) T.P.S. Kandra, will also grace the two day event along with other distinguished guests.

On the first day, the morning session of Gyan Yug Diwas celebration will commenced with Programme introduction, Guru Parampara Pujan, Shanti Path and welcoming of guests by Maharishi Vedic Pundits. Followed by Ganesh Vandana by the students of Maharishi Vidya Mandir, Ratanpur. After that the main attraction of the programme, Brahmachari Girish Ji will addressed the gathering. With this Brahmachari Ji will also release and dedicate some new publications.

After the address of Brahmachari Girish Ji, the chief guest of the program, Union Minister of State Prahlad Singh Patel will deliver his address on the topic "Role of Politics in Establishing World Peace". Both the special guests of the program, Cabinet Minister-Vishwas Sarang, and BJP MLA Rameshwar Sharma will also address the audience present at Maharishi Utsav Bhawan as well as the audience watching the program through various online websites.

Prof. Bhuvnesh Sharma and Retd. Col. T.P.S. Chandra will also address the programme. Cultural programs will be presented by the students of Maharishi Vidya Mandir in the second session after the prasad break between 1 pm to 2 pm.

The two-day Gyan Yug Diwas celebration programme concludes with a ‘Bharajamrit’ of renowned playback singer Vidhi Sharma. Vidhi Sharma is an 'A' grade artist of All India Radio, who has represented Indian music at various national and international music festivals. Having enthralled audiences across the globe, she has also won GIMA (Global Indian Music Award). Along with Vidhi Sharma, globally acclaimed tabla maestro and composer Pandit Anoop Ghosh, renowned percussionist Satish Kumar Solanki and keyboardist Pawan Kumar will enthrall the audience.

The two-day Gyan Yug Divas celebrations will be telecast live on various social media platforms of Ramraj TV.
The link to watch the program is as follows -
https://youtube.com/c/Ramrajtv/
https://www.facebook.com/1Ramrajtv/
https://www.ramrajtv.com
 

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: Brahmachari Girish Ji, the head of Maharishi Group of Educational Institutions on Saturday extended greetings to the nation on the joyous occasion of Shri Chitragupta Poojan & Bhaj Dooj Mahotsav and wished them happiness and prosperity.

In his message, Brahmachari Girish Ji wished that “Many many warm wishes to all of you on Shri Chitragupt Poojan and Bhai Dooj Mahotsav”.

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: The three-day Deepawali Celebration organised with religious fervour at all Maharishi Centers countrywide. Main function was organized in Maharishi Utsav Bhawan, Chhan, Bhojpur Mandir Road Bhopal, where Brahmachari Girish Ji, the head of “Maharishi Group of Educational Institutions” performed Shri Mahalakshmi Puja with Maharishi Vedic Pundits and Vedic Vidhan on Monday. 

On the auspicious occasion of Deepawali, a special prayer of about 3 hours dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi was performed by Brahmachari Girish Ji with the Sankalpa to bring happiness, peace, prosperity, perfect health, invincibility, and enlightenment to every individual on earth.

As per the tradition of Maharishi Organisation, the three-day Deepawali Celebration was begin with Shri Dhanvantri Day Celebration on Saturday, Brahmachari Girish Ji performed puja of Bhagwan Dhanvantari with the Sankalpa to bring happiness, peace, prosperity, perfect health, invincibility, and enlightenment to every individual on earth.

On the second day of the festival, Shri Hanuman Jayanti was celebrated with pomp, Brahmachari Girish Ji is the ultimate devotee of Hanuman Ji, he along with Vedic pundits offered prayers to please Hanuman Ji.

The program can be viewed online at the following links:-

1. https://www.youtube.com/c/Ramrajtv/

2. https://www.facebook.com/1Ramrajtv/

3. https://www.ramrajtv.com

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: On this auspicious occasion of Vijayadashami, Hon’ble Chairman of Maharishi Vidya Mandir Schools Group, Brahmachari Girish Ji inaugurated Global Mother Divine Programme at Gurudev Brahmanand Saraswati Ashram, Chhan, Bhojpur Mandir Road, Bhopal on Wednesday. 

The Programme started with Guru Poojan, Shanti Path followed by a traditional welcome of the extinguished guest. Saraswati, Lakshmi and Durga, the three forms of the Goddess were worshiped by Vedic pundits chanting Vedic mantras.

In his address to the audience, Hon'ble Brahmachari Girish Ji said that Vijayadashami is the most auspicious day of the year. Yesterday we completed 9-day of Mother Divine. This campus, Maharishi Ved Vigyan Vishwa Vidyapeetham is the only place in the whole world where Lakshchandi Mahayagya is being performed since last 9 years. ‘Lakshchandi Mahayagya’ is an important yagya which require lot of attention and efforts. On the last day of Navratri, we completed six 'Lakshchandi Mahayagyas' during the Purnaahuti of yagya.  We can perceive the rising effect of collective consciousness.  We need to perform such Yagya more often. 

Brahmachari Girish Ji said that on this auspicious day, we inaugurate the Global Mother Divine Programme, India at Maharishi Bliss Recidency, Bhojpur Mandir Road, Bhopal. One of the Sankalpa of Maharishi Ji is of creating many groups of Thousand Headed Mother Divine and Thousand Headed Purusha. Today we have created the very first group of Mother Divine in India. Girish Ji also invited all the mother divine from all over the world to stay here and enjoy the silence and peace at Maharishi Bliss Residency. He urged to radiate the same silence, happiness, invincibility and collective consciousness for world peace. We aim to create 1000 Divine Groups, thereby creating enough coherence not only for Bhopal and for India but the effects of coherence reaches in every corner of the world thus benefiting our dear world family.

V R Khare-Director CPR, Arya Nandkumar-National Secretary Communication, Arma Saxena-TM Teacher, Usha Mishra-TM Teacher were also present. The programme was anchored by Dr. Nilimp Tripathi-Prof. MMYVV. 

On this occasion, Raja Dr. Harris Kaplan, Rajrajeshwari Kirti Srivastava, Raj Rajeshwari P. Sushan Harmel from The Netherlands, Dr. Hemalatha Reddy, Mother Divine-USA also joined the programme through Zoom webinar.

All of them appreciated the contribution and efforts of Brahmachari Girish Ji to fulfill Maharishi Ji's resolve of world peace. All of them also expressed their views about 'Global Mother Divine Programme' and urged Brahmachari Girish Ji to take this program to the doorsteps of India.

After the inauguration of the Global Mother Divine Programme, India, a grand Bhajan Sandhya programme was organised by Aruna Paranjpe and Group. On this occasion, a large number of audiences were present to witness the melodious performance. The programme was concluded with the distribution of parshad to the devotees.

Ravan Dahan ceremony was also organised in the evening at Maharishi Ved Vigyan Vidyapeeth, Chhan, Bhojpur Mandir Road, Bhopal.
 

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: With the Divine blessing of Param Pujya Anant Shri Vibhushit Jyotishpeethadhishwar Shankaracharya, Swami Shri Vasudevanand Saraswati Ji Maharaj, Badrika Ashram, Himalaya and the divine inspiration of His Holiness Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ji and special presence of Hon’ble Chairman of Maharishi Vidya Mandir Schools Group, Brahmachari Girish Ji, the nine-day Shardiya Navratri Mahotsav began today with Shri Sahasrachandi Mahayagya at Gurudev Brahmanand Saraswati Ashram, Chhan, Bhojpur Mandir Road, Bhopal. 

On Monday morning, Shri Sahasrachandi Mahayagya started with Ghatsthapana Pujan and Panchopachara Puja which witnessed a large number of participation of devotees. Thereafter Shri Chandi Path and Havan were held with the recitation of Mantra by 100 Vedic Pandits of Maharishi Organisation. 

On this auspicious occasion of Shardiya Navratri Mahotsav, Shri Devi Bhagvat Katha Amrit Pravah are being held at Maharishi Vedic Cultural Centre, E-7 Arera Colony Bhopal, and will be continued for nine days till 3 October. The Katha was recited by Nilimp Tiparthi, Prof. Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Vedic Vishwavidhyalaya. The Katha started with ‘Pooja Archana’ of ‘Vyas Gaddi’ and a traditional welcome by Maharishi Vedic Pundits. The Katha will be held every day from 6 pm to 8.30 pm. A Free Ayurvedic health camp was also organized at Maharishi Ayurved Chikitsa and Panchkram Kendra. Free consultation and checkups will be done by Mudhusudhan Deshpande and Prof. Ved Shri Bharat Chouragade.

This nine-day-long Navratri festival will end with Vijayadashami on October 4, which will be celebrated at Maharishi Ved Vigyan Vidyapeeth, Chhan, Bhojpur Mandir Road, Bhopal at 7: 30 pm.

On 5th October, Maharishi Organisation will organise a grand Bhajan Sandhya programme by Aruna Paranjpe and Group at Gurudev Brahmanand Saraswati Ashram, Chhan, Bhojpur Mandir Road, Bhopal from 4 pm to 6 pm.

The programme will be televised on the following links:-
1.    https://www.youtube.com/c/Ramrajtv/
2.    https://www.facebook.com/1Ramrajtv/
3.    https://www.ramrajtv.com
 

BHOPAL (Maha Media): Maharishi Organisation on Wednesday celebrated World Peace Day with great enthusiasm and fervor at Maharishi Mangalam Bhawan, Maharishi Vidya Mandir School, Ratanpur, Bhopal.

The programme was graced by Chief Guest Prof. Khem Singh Daheriya, Vice Chancellor, Atal Bihari Vajpayee Hindi Vishwavidyalaya and Guest of Honour Prof. Bhuvnesh Sharma, Vice Chancellor, Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Vedic Vishwavidyalaya.  

Other dignitaries include Director Communication and Public Relations- V. R. Khare, National Secretary Communication, Smt. Arya Nandkumar, Virendra Gawande, Director, Maharishi Institute of Management, Bhopal and B.S Guleria, Principal MVM Ratanpur also shared the stage with the chief guests.

While addressing the programme, Ved Vidya Martand Brahmachari Girish Ji said that Transcendental Meditation is a powerful means of establishing peace in the world. The basis of our organisation is to take care of everyone's consciousness, due to which the world consciousness itself will be restored and purified and then peace will be established in the world. In our Maharishi Sansthan, everyone irrigates their consciousness with Transcendental Meditation twice a day, similarly the whole world has to make efforts to keep the tree of humanity safe, healthy and prosperous.

Brahmachari Girish Ji praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said that he is doing a great job but credit should not be given to him only, our organization as well as other people have an important role in his success. Our organisation has millions of Vedic scholars around the world who practice Transcendental Meditation and siddhi programs every day, thereby creating Satoguna. The more knowledge, consciousness and Satoguni the subjects have, the more Satoguni their king will be. There are about 7000 Vedic Pandits in our organization, who practice the TM-Sidhi program, Yogic Flying every day and around 1331 Vedic Pundits perform Atirudraabhishek daily under one roof at Brahmasthan, Karondi in Jabalpur with the resolve of world peace. For the happiness, prosperity and security of the citizens of India as well as the development and stability of the State Government, Central Government and the world family, our Vedic Pandits strive to please God and the planets by performing continuous rituals.

It is the need of all of us and the world that there should be peace in the world. By practicing Transcendental Meditation twice daily, you all will become the brand ambassador of world peace and the creation of heaven on earth will be possible. We can call ourselves victorious only when our whole world family will be happy and peaceful, where there will be no possibility of war, no terrorism, no poverty and positivity instead of negativity, Girish Ji added.

Earlier, the programme commenced with Shri Guru Parampara Poojan and Swasti Vachan by Vedic Pandits, followed by traditional felicitation of the dignitaries with shawls and Shrifal. After honoring the guests, the students of Maharishi Vidya Mandir Ratanpur presented a welcome song. After that, Devanshi Pathak and Karan Das, students of Maharishi Vidya Mandir Ratanpur gave their speeches on World Peace Day. The program ended with a group practice of Transcendental Meditation and Siddhi program by all the attendees.

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: Brahmachari Girish Ji, Chairman of Maharishi Group of Educational Institutions on Saturday extended his greetings for Shri Vishwakarma Jayanti.

Taking to Facebook, Brahmachari Girish Ji said, "Many warm wishes to all of you on the auspicious occasion of Shri Vishwakarma Jayanti. May every life be enlightened and prosperous.”

Vighnaraja Sankashti Ganesh Chaturthi is dedicated to the Vignaraja Maha Ganpati of Lord Ganesha of the Vigneshwara Peeta. Vighnaraja means the one who controls obstacles or hurdles.

Therefore, devotees observe a fast and offer prayers to Lord Ganesha for getting rid of obstacles/ hurdles in their life. Sankashti in Sanskrit means deliverance and hence, Lord Ganesha shall remove anything that troubles a devotee. This year, the auspicious day will fall on September 13.

Chaturthi Tithi start and end timings:
Chaturthi Tithi Begins - 10:37 AM on Sep 13, 2022
Chaturthi Tithi Ends - 10:25 AM on Sep 14, 2022

Moonrise on September 13
Moonrise on Sankashti Day - 08:26 PM

Vrat Vidhis
* The first step is to rise up early in the morning, and then you should do your Sankalpa. Also, to have a positive frame of mind, you should practice meditation.
* Your fast should start from the morning and end after the puja vidhi is over. One more thing to keep in mind is, even after breaking the fast, you should stay away from consuming any kind of cereal.
* During the period, a small puja to worship Lord Ganesha takes place. Also, a Pandit Ji chants the holy mantras and offers prayers to invoke Bappa’s divine blessings for smoothly running everyone’s lives.
* After the puja ends, you should dedicate your offerings to the moon.

Significance
It is believed that on this day, Lord Shiva declared his son Ganesha superior to all gods. During each month, Lord Ganpati is worshipped with a different name and Peeta. On this day, devotees wake up early and wear clean clothes after taking a bath. Then they worship Lord Ganesha by offering prayers and chanting slokas.

The vrat puja takes place in the evening with devotees reading vrat katha. Devotees believe that their wishes will be fulfilled and Vighnaharta will remove all the obstacles.

Vighnaraja Sankashti Ganesh Chaturthi Vrat Katha

According to the scriptures, Pandava King Yudhishthira asked Shri Krishna to naarte the story related to Vighnaraja Sankashti Ganesh Chaturthi.

Benefits:-
* The person observing the Vrat will thus benefit from the Lord’s blessings and he will thrive in his personal and professional life.
* Also, a woman who is not able to conceive can observe the fast too. She will overcome her infertility issues if she follows this ritual and observes the fast with full devotion.
* A married couple whose relationship is going through a rough patch, discord, and difficulty, they should also pray to the Lord and observe the fast. This will bring back marital peace and unity.

The story unfolds...
Once there lived a girl named Usha, the daughter of a demon named Banasur. One night, she dreamt about a man named Aniruddha. After the dream, she was eager to meet hiom. So, she asked her friend named Chitralekha to make sketches of the three worlds that included images of all the inhabitants.

Usha then laid her eyes on the sketch of Aniruddha and asked her to help her trace his whereabouts. She then explained to her friend that she got married to Aniruddha in her dreams and therefore, she won't be able to live without him being traced.

Chitralekha then decided to help Usha and started searching for Aniruddha and finally found him in Dwarika. Subsequently, she lifted the bed of Aniruddha at night while he was sleeping and reached Banasur's kingdom.

On the other hand, Pradyumna, the father of Aniruddha, was worried after his son went missing. Pradyumman was the eldest son of Shri Krishna and Rukmini. Eventually, Lord Krishna sought help from Rishi Lomash, who revealed the chain of events. The sage suggested Shri Krishna to keep a fast on Sankashti Chaturthi to get rid of the problem. A few days later, Shri Krishna defeated Banasur in a battle and rescued Aniruddha.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: Pitru Paksha or Shradh Paksha holds great significance in Hinduism. According to the Hindu Calendar, it begins after the Full Moon day (Purnima Tithi) in the Ashwin month, Krishna Paksha (as per Punimant calendar) and Bhadrapada (as per the Amavasyant calendar). Though, the names of the months differ, the date remains the same.

Pitru Paksha is observed the fortnight following ‘Ganesh Utsav’ and occurs in the second ‘paksha’ (fortnight) of the Hindu lunar month of Bhadrapada (September). This year, ‘Pitru Paksha’ will begin on September 10 and go until September 25, when the nine-day Navratri festival will start.

The fifteen days of Malaya Paksha consist of 15 Tithi (also called Tithi). They are Pratipat, Dvitiya, Tritiya, Chaturthi, Panchami, Shashti, Saptami, Ashtami, Navami, Dasami, Ekadasi, Dvadasi, Trayodasi, Chaturdashi, Amavasya (new moon). 

In Hinduism, Pitru Paksha is the devotional ritual performed by relatives for the departed souls of the dead ancestors, parents and relatives. During the rituals, Tarpan and Shraddha are performed, and offerings are made to priests or pandits in the name of the deceased ancestors. Special dishes which were liked by the ancestors are cooked and pandit or Brahmin pair is invited for lunch. At sunrise on this day, til, rice, and other food items are offered to the ancestors. ‘Puja’, ‘havan’, and ‘daan’ are then performed. No celebrations are allowed, and nothing new may be purchased, during this time.

HISTORY
According to a legend when Karna died in Mahabharata and his soul reached heaven, he was astonished to find that every food item he touched turned into gold, leaving him extremely hungry. When Karna and Surya asked Indra about the reason, he told them that while Karna had donated gold, he never offered food to his ancestors during Pitru Paksha due to which they cursed him. While Karna said he was not aware of who his ancestors were, he was eager to make amends and offered to return to earth for a period of 15 days to perform shraadh rituals and donate food and water in their memory. From that time onwards, the 15-day period came to be known as Pitru Paksha.

Significance of paying tributes to deceased ancestors

Pitru Paksha falls after the Full Moon Day and marks the beginning of the waxing of the Lunar cycle. According to the Hindu religion, it is believed that the souls of the ancestors reside in Pitrulok and they descend on earth during these 16-days of Pitru Paksha. Therefore, family members ensure that their ancestors attain moksha (liberation) and do Pind Daan (offering food consisting of cooked rice and black sesame seeds). It is an act of appeasing the ancestors.

It is also believed that it is a crucial time for those who suffer from Pitru Dosha (when ancestors are not happy). For this, people perform various rituals and offer food to the crow (beings that represent dead). It is believed, if the crow accepts the food offered, then it indicates that ancestors are pleased. However, if it refuses to have the food offered, it means that the ancestors are displeased.

Several prayers are offered and rituals are performed to help the soul get freed from the cycle of birth, life, and death. It is said that if the Shradh is performed in the right way, then the soul of the deceased comes down to bless their dear ones.

The ritual is also held on the death anniversary of the ancestor. The shraddha is performed only at noon, usually on the bank of a river or lake or at one's own house. Families may also make a pilgrimage to places like Varanasi and Gaya to perform Shraddha.
 

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: Shri Krishna Janmashtami or the birth of Lord Krishna is celebrated with full fervour and joy all across the country. Also known as Gokulashtami, the day marks the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth incarnation or avatar of Lord Vishnu.

On this day, the temples are decorated and few families not only celebrate along with their family members but they tend to invite guests and celebrate the festival in a grand manner. 

This year, Janmashtami will be celebrated on the 18th August. As per the Hindu tales, Krishna was born inside a prison in the Yadava clan of Mathura. Krishna's parents were queen Devaki and king Vasudeva. In his childhood, Shri Krishna has been portrayed as a prankster in our mythology. He was also said to be quite popular among the ladies.

Gokulashtami is generally celebrated in the Krishna paksha of the Bhadra month of the Hindu calendar. It is said that Krishna was born at midnight in the Rohini Nakshatra of this month.

Have a look at all the details of Puja, Shubh Muhrat, and other things:

Krishna Janmashtami puja muhurat
The laddu Gopal puja is performed during Ashtami tithi. And this year, Ashtami tithi begins at 09:20 pm on August 18 and ends at 10:59 pm on August 19, 2022.

Janmashtami puja celebration vidhi
An idol of Krishna is placed in a cradle and worshipped on this day. Prasad of butter and sugar is offered to the Lord. Devotees keep a day-long fast and break it only after the puja with the prasad. This breaking of fast is called paran. Bhajan, kirtan, and aarti are also performed to celebrate Krishna's birth. Kids also perform on the songs of Lord Krishna and women dance to Radha's songs too.

Dahi-handi and significance
In many parts of Maharashtra and UP, a ritual of Dahi - Handi is also practiced. People in various parts of the country make a human pyramid to break the bowl of curd or butter. The day is marked as the win of good and truth over evil.

Dahi Handi festival is counted to be part of the child leelas of the Lord Krishna. This festival is celebrated on a large scale in varied cities as well as villages across India with both great pomp and show. There is common belief, Lord Krishna used to enjoy eating curd, milk and makhan. For doing so, he broke the handi of the neighbours" house during his childhood.

The Dahi Handi festival is a celebration of these pastimes of Lord Krishna as he was fond of breaking matki. The festival of Dahi Handi is celebrated across the nation on the day after the birth of Lord Krishna. Many people would be celebrating Janmashtami on 18th while few others would be celebrating the festival on 19th August. Hence, Dahi Handi Festival would be observed on 19th as well as 20th August respectively.

As Per the Hindu Scriptures, the Lord Krishna was very naughty during his childhood. Along with his sakha troupe (friends), he used to sneak into the neighbours, houses and steal makhan milk and curd to eat. All the women in the neighbourhood villages were troubled because of Kanha ji's mischief. In order to save their makhan and milk from kanha. The women began to hang the handi at a certain height. However, kanha ji managed to reach handi by making a pyramid with his friends.
 

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: Brahmachari Girish Ji, Chairman of Maharishi Group of Educational Institutions on Saturday greeted all Indians as the nation is observing the 75th Independence Day this year. 

In his message, Brahmachari Girish Ji said that "Congratulations and many best wishes to all the countrymen on this auspicious occasion of independence."

Ghar-Ghar Tiranga-Har Ghar Tiranga, Vande Mataram. 
 

Raksha Bandhan, a tradition that honours the bond between a brother and sister, is one of the biggest festivals in India. Commonly known as Rakhi, Raksha Bandhan is observed on the Purnima Tithi (Full Moon day) in the month of the holy month of Shravana (a month dedicated to Lord Shiva) as per the Hindu calendar. Ahead of the festival this year, read on to know why Rakhi is celebrated, the date and history, the Rakhi tying Vidhi and other frequently asked questions.

Raksha Bandhan pays tribute to the brother-sister bond. Sisters secure a sacred thread, referred to as Rakhi, to their brother's right wrist after performing a few rituals. This sacred thread is a symbol of protection and security.

Raksha Bandhan is observed on the Purnima Tithi, i.e. on the full moon day in the month of Shravana. And this year, Raksha Bandhan will be celebrated tomorrow, August 11.

Nowadays it is not just the brothers and sisters who tie rakhi to each other but also friends, and distant relatives who have started this tradition. Rakhi is now toed to anyone who at any point has provided some kind of protection or care to another.

Many women also visit temples and tie threads to the idol of Lord Krishna, hoping and praying for the Lord to protect them from hardships and evils.

Raksha Bandhan 2022 Bhadra time
According to astrologer Pandit Sujeet Ji Maharaj, the Purnima Tithi will remain in effect from August 11 at 9:34 AM till 7:17 AM on August 12. However, the Purnima Tithi will be impaired by Bhadra, a time considered inauspicious for tying the sacred thread. As per the expert, one must avoid performing Raksha Bandhan rituals when Bhadra prevails.

Therefore, the time to secure Rakhi commences only after 5:40 PM. Although the Purnima Tithi ends on the morning of August 12, the priest suggests it is best to celebrate Rakhi on August 11 itself.

However, one may also wait for the Pradosh Kaal to start as per a Panchang. Traditionally, the Aparahna Kaal is deemed best for tying the Rakhi. However, one may celebrate Raksha Bandhan during the Pradosh Kaal. This year, Pradosh Kaal will remain effective between 8:51 PM to 9:13 PM, and this is deemed the best Muhurat.

Significance of Raksha Bandhan
There are various legends associated with this festival, and these narrate how the practice of tying the sacred thread came into being. Interestingly, one of the stories related to Raksha Bandhan involves a couple. Here's how one of the legends unfolds:

Draupadi and Shri Krishna
An interesting incident dating back to the times of the Pandavas explains the significance and history of Rakhi.

The Pandavas invited Lord Krishna to an event to mark the establishment of Indraprastha as Yudishthir's kingdom. And among the several guests, Shishupal, the estranged cousin of Shri Krishna was also present. Shishupal deplored Krishna and humiliated him in the presence of the guests and crossed all limits of sinning. Therefore, to punish him, Shri Krishna fired his Sudarshana Chakra at him. However, when the Chakra returned to Shri Krishna's hand, it made a deep cut on his finger. And Draupadi, who was his closest friend, tore a piece of her clothing to cover his wound. This gesture of Draupadi won her Shri Krishna's eternal blessings. And eventually, when the Pandavas failed to protect her honour upon being humiliated by Dushasana, Shri Krishna's grace guarded her. Thus Shri Krishna venerated Draupadi's gesture and shielded her from the enemies.

Here's wishing all those who celebrate this festival, a very Happy Raksha Bandhan in advance.
 

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: On the auspicious occasion of the first Shravan Somwar (Monday), Shri Rudrabhishek Maha Yagya was performed by Ved Vidya Martand Brahmachari Girish Ji in presence of 121 Maharishi Vedic Pundits, staff and guests at Maharishi Utsav Bhawan, Shri Gurudev Brahmanand Sarawati Ashram, Chhan, Bhojpur Mandir Marg, Bhopal. With the Divine blessings of His Holiness Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ji, this Shri Rudrabhishek Maha Yagya, which lasted for about three hours, 121 Maharishi Vedic Pundits performed Rudrabhishek of Devadhidev Bhagwan Shiv Shankar Ji with Vedic chants.

This Shri Rudrabhishek Maha Yagya will be performed every Shravan Somwar, from 3 pm to 6 pm till the last Shravan Somwar, 8th August, with the Sankalpa of creating peace, harmony, prosperity, perfect health, and well-being of all the members of the world family and family of nations. Shri Rudrabhishek Maha Yagya is a very rare Yagya and is performed in Maharishi organisation only.

On this occasion, Brahmachari Girish Ji greeted everyone on the first Somwar of Shravan month. Girish Ji said that Lord Shiva has many avatars, and therefore has various forms of worshipping, Rudrabhishek is one of them. “Rudrabhishek Yagya is one of the most important rituals and rare Yagya to create peace within oneself and in the environment. Hon’ble Girish Ji urged people to plant more and more trees during this Shravan month to balance the seasons and atmosphere.
 

Shravan, commonly called Sawan, is the fourth Hindu month per the Lunar calendar. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, this month marks the beginning of the holy Chaturmas period. Moreover, the season of regional and pan India festivals, namely Hariyali Teej, Nag Panchami, Raksha Bandhan, etc., begin this month.

Monday is the day, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva and observing fast on Mondays in the month of Sawan is considered to be highly auspicious. The word ‘Somwar’ originates from the Sanskrit word ‘Soma’ means Chandra, the Hindu deity Moon, and Lord Shiva wears a crescent moon on his forehead that is why Lord Shiva is known as 'Someshvara'.

The devotees observe Monday fasts to please Lord Shiva and seek his blessings. This time 4 Mondays will be occured in the month of Shravan. Some devotees observe 'Solah Somwar' (Sixteen Mondays) from the first monday of Shravan and continue it up to 16th Monday.

According to Hindu Scriptures Shravan month is important for unmarried women, who wish to get desired life partner. It is believed that those, who observe fast on Sawan Mondays, Lord Shiva bless them with happiness, health, wealth and desired wish fulfilment.

As per Drik Panchang, the first Somwar will be observed on Krishna Paksha in the month of Shravan. This month, first Monday fast is going to be observed on 18th July, 2022 by the lakhs of devotees of Lord Shiva.

Sawan Somwar dates

Sawan Somwar 2022 as per the Purnimant calendar
July 18
July 25
August 1
August 8

Sawan Somwar 2022 as per the Amavasyant calendar
August 1
August 8
August 15
August 22

Sawan Somwar Shivji Puja Vidhi
* Wake up at Brahma Muhurta (precisely two hours before sunrise)
* Take a bath and wear clean clothes.
* Sankalpa (align your thoughts and channel your energies according to the divine occasion).
* Clean the altar (platform or puja ghar) with Gangajal and purify your home with the sacred waters.
* Dhyana - Meditate and connect your inner self with the Lord
* Asana - Respectfully place the idol (or Shiva Linga) of Lord Shivaon a wooden platform (chowki) or altar meant for puja.
* Padya - offer water to the Lord's feet.
* Arghya - offer water to the Lord for washing his face and hands.
* Achaman- pour water from your left hand onto the right palm and drink it.
* Snana - offer water to the Lord for bathing. You may use water, milk, Gangajal, honey, curd, ghee, etc., to do the Abhishek).
* Vastra - offer a fresh piece of cloth (preferably white) to the deity
* Yagnopaveeth - offer the sacred Janeyu and Akshat to the Lord
* Gandha - offer Chandan paste
* Pushpa - offer Datura flowers, Vilva leaves etc
* Dhoop - offer incense sticks and dhoop
* Deep - offer an oil lamp
* Naivedhya - offer bhog
* Tabulam - Coconut, fruits, pan supari and dakshina (cash).
* Do aarti - Click here for the lyrics.
* Pradakshina or Parikrama/ Circumambulate - stand up on your feet and turn around from your right.
* Pushpanjali - offer flowers and do pranam
* Kshama Prarthana - Apologise to Lord Shiva for any mistake you may have committed while performing the puja.

Here's wishing all the Lord Shiva devotees Happy Sawan.

BHOPAL [Maha Media]:  “Param Pujya Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ji used to say that he has only the knowledge and blessings given by Gurudev Brahmanand Saraswati Ji Maharaj. With the inspiration of this knowledge and blessings, Maharishi Ji propagated Transcendental Meditation, Siddhi Programme and many other Vedic Techniques all over the world continuously for 51 years. And shared a truly priceless gift to all mankind for free. That too at a time when means of communication and transport were not in abundance.” These words were spoken by the Brahmachari Girish Ji, Hon’ble Chairman Maharishi Vidya Mandir Schools Group on the Sri Guru Purnima Mahotsav and 14th Foundation Day of Maharishi World Peace Movement. 

Maharishi Sangathan celebrated Sri Guru Purnima with great enthusiasm and fervor at Maharishi Mangalam Bhavan, Hosangabad Road on Tuesday.

The programme started with Shri Guru Parampara Poojan and Vedic Shanti Path by Vedic Pundits. Addressing the gathering, Ved Vidya Martand Brahmachari Girish Ji said that today at around 6:00 am I received divine blessings of Shankaracharya Swami Vasudevanand Saraswati Ji. Gurudev blessed me with the fulfillment of new resolutions, which is an important achievement for all of us. Looking at today's environment, it seems that the effect and speed of Kalyug is very fast, so we have to move faster than the speed of Kalyuga. We have to make our consciousness such that it is not harmed in any way. Just as the wet grass does not catch fire when it is full of dew. When you have pure consciousness, then the restlessness and external influence of the mind will have no effect on it.

Girish Ji also appealed to the members of the Maharishi Family to ensure that the keeping with the tradition, we must promote Vedic Science and Transcendental Meditation across the world.  

After the address of Brahmachari Girish Ji, Dr. Prakash Joshi - Vice President-Maharishi Shiksha Sansthan, Prof. Bhuvnesh Sharma-Vice Chancellor of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Vedic Vishwavidyalaya,  Col. (Retd.) Dr. T.P.S.Kandra, Vice Chancellor of MMYIM&T also addressed the gathering and dedicated all the achievements of their department at the lotus feet of Shri Gurudev Ji and His Holiness Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ji.

In the second session, the Bhajan program was presented by eminent Bhajan singer Raju Das, renowned Tabla player Pandit Anup Ghosh, eminent keyboardist- Shashikant Chobe, and renowned Spanish guitarist- Yashojit Biswas group. Hearing the hymns, everyone in the audience became mesmerised and ecstatic. Heads and directors of various Maharishi institutions, principals, teachers, and a large number of students were also present on the occasion. The program was telecast live through Ramraj TV. 

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: Maharishi Organsation is celebrating Sri Guru Purnima and the 14th Foundation Day of Maharishi World Peace Movement on 13th July 2022 with great enthusiasm and fervor.

With the divine blessing of Anant Shri Vibushit Gurudev Brahmanand Saraswati Ji Maharaj, present Jyothishpeethadheeshwar Jagatguru Shankaracharya Swami Vasudevanand Saraswati Ji Maharaj and Param Pujya Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ji. 

The programme of Shri Guru Purnima will be presided over under the able leadership of Brahmachari Girish Ji, Hon’ble Chairman Maharishi Vidya Mandir Schools Group. 

Guru Purnima, a spiritual tradition practiced in many parts of the world, is the most significant day in the Guru Shishya Parampara (Tradition of Teachers - Disciple relationship).  Guru Purnima is celebrated on the full moon day in the Vedic month of Ashadh every year to remember, to oblige, to express the gratitude to the Master and seek his blessings for successful happy life.  

This year on July 13, the auspicious Shri Guru Purnima programme will begin with Shri Guru Parampara Poojan and Vedic Shanti Path by Vedic Pundits at Maharishi Mangalam Bhavan, Hosangabad Road from 10:30 am. After the ritual of puja, Brahmachari Girish Ji will address the gathering as the keynote speaker. Later, Hon’ble Brahmachari Girish will dedicate all the achievements of the institution during the year at the lotus feet of Shri Gurudev Ji and His Holiness Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ji and will outline the plans for the coming year.

After the address of Brahmachari Girish Ji, Prof. Bhuvnesh Sharma-Vice Chancellor of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Vedic Vishwavidyalaya and Col. (Retd.) Dr. T.P.S.Kandra, Vice Chancellor of MMYIM&T will also address the gathering. The heads and directors of various Maharishi institutions will also offer their achievements of the year at the lotus feet of Gurudev.

In the second session, the Bhajan program by eminent Bhajan singer Raju Das, famous tabla player-Pandit Anoop Ghosh, noted keyboardist-Sashikant Chobe and renowned Spanish guitarist-Yashojit Vishwaas Group will be presented with melodious compositions of devotion. 

Heads and directors of various Maharishi institutions, principals, teachers and a large number of students will be present on this occasion. 

The programme will be streamed live through Ramrajtv. Links for online streaming are:-
https://www.youtube.com/c/Ramrajtv/
https://www.facebook.com/1ramrajtv/
https://ramrajtv.com
 

Chaturmas Maas as the name suggests - Chatur means four and Maas means month) spans over four months. Though it commences on the Ekadashi Tithi (eleventh day), Ashadha, Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the Moon), it primarily includes Shravan, Bhadrapad Ashwin and Kartik months.

The Chaturmas starts with Devshayani Ekadashi, Ashadha, Shukla Paksha and culminates with the Devutthani Ekadashi, Kartik, Shukla Paksha. It is said that Shri Vishnu, the Palanhar or the caretaker of the Universe, goes into a state of Yogic sleep (Yoga Nidra) for four months and therefore, devotees refrain from organising auspicious ceremonies like weddings, naming or head tonsuring rituals of children or housewarming functions. Moreover, the Chaturmas period is ideal for introspection, connecting with the inner-self and performing austerities.

Chaturmas commences on the Ekadashi Tithi of Ashadha, Shukla Paksha. And on this day, devotees celebrate Devshayani Ekadashi, dedicated to Lord Vishnu. This year, Devshayani Ekadashi will be observed on July 10. Chaturmas concludes on the Ekadashi Tithi of Kartik, Shukla Paksha. And devotees observe the Devutthana Ekadashi Vrat, also called Devuthani or Prabodhani Ekadashi. This year, Devuthani Ekadashi will be celebrated on November 4.

Significance of Chaturmas
Lord Vishnu (hailed as Palanhar, who protects the Universe) goes into a deep state of meditation (Yoga Nidra) for four months. Therefore, no auspicious events, namely engagement, wedding, baby's head tonsuring or naming ceremonies, housewarming rituals, etc., are organised during this period. Instead, devotees practise abstinence.
Interestingly, Lord Vishnu rests on the coiled body of Adi Shesha or the Shesh Naag (seven-hooded serpent) during Chaturmas underneath the Kshirasagara (cosmic ocean). And during his absence, Lord Shiva takes care of the Universe. Therefore, the Chaturmas commences with a month (Shravan) dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Devotees pay tributes to Lord Shiva during Shravan by observing the Shravan Somwar vrat (fasts) on Mondays (Somwar), followed by the Mangala Gowri puja, tribute to Goddess Parvati, on Tuesdays (Mangalwar). Click here to know the Shravan 2022 start and end dates.
The Chaturmas culminate with the end of Lord Vishnu's Yoga Nidra. Then, the Lord wakes from a state of yogic sleep on Devuthani (also known as Dev Utthana) Ekadashi. However, in some traditions, Chaturmas ends with the Tulsi Vivah, i.e. Dwadashi Tithi of Kartik Shukla Paksha. And with Tulsi Vivah, the season of weddings in the Hindu community begins.
Interestingly, Chaturmas encourages devotees to introspect, meditate, bathe in holy rivers and observe Vrats. But, over and above, it is the best time to connect with the inner self and participate in spiritual discourses.

Mythology related to Chaturmas
According to the scriptures, King Bali took control of the three worlds. When Indradev and all the other gods, frightened, sought help from Lord Vishnu, Shri Hari took the Vamana avatar and reached King Bali to ask for donations. Lord Vamana asked for three steps of land in charity. God measured the earth and the sky in two steps and when asked where to keep the third step, Bali said to put it on his head.

In this way, by liberating the three worlds from the sacrifice, Shri Narayan removed the fear of Devraj Indra. But seeing the charity and devotion of King Bali, Lord Vishnu asked Bali to ask for a boon. Bali told God that you should go to Hades with me and always reside there. Lord Vishnu fulfilled the wish of his devotee Bali and went to Hades. This worried all the deities and Goddess Lakshmi.

Goddess Lakshmi thought of a trick to free Lord Vishnu from Hades and reached King Bali as a poor woman. Considering King Bali as his brother, he tied a rakhi and in return demanded a promise to free Lord Vishnu from the underworld. Lord Vishnu did not want to disappoint his devotee, so he gave a boon to Bali that he would reside in Hades from Ashadha Shukla Ekadashi to Kartik Shukla Ekadashi, so Lord Vishnu stays in Yoga Nidra during these four months.
 

Half a year has passed and now the seventh month of 2022, that is, July is starting from tomorrow. This month has great importance in Hinduism. According to the Hindi Panchang, the festivals begin with the month of Sawan and the month of July is of Ashadha-Sawan.

And the holy period of Chaturmas also commences during this month. Therefore, July is filled with a list of dates significant both across the country and specific regions. From the world-famous Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra of Odisha to Guru Purnima, from Shravan Maas and Hariyali Teej, July has myriad festivals this year. 

List of Hindu festivals in July 2022

Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra
The Puri Jagannath Rath Yatra of Odisha will commence on July 1. During this community festival, devotees pull three giant wooden chariots carrying the idols of Lord Jagannath and his siblings, Balbhadra and Subhadra, from the iconic Puri shrine.

Devshayani Ekadashi
The Ekadashi of Ashadha, Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the Moon), is called Devshayani Ekadashi. And this is because ancient scriptures suggest that Lord Vishnu goes into a state of Yogic sleep on this day and wakes up only after four months. Hence, the name Devshayani, where Dev means Lord Vishnu and Shayani means resting. This year, Devshayani Ekadashi vrat will be observed on July 10.

Guru Purnima
The day dedicated to Gurus, mentors, teachers and trainers is called Guru Purnima The Purnima tithi (Full Moon day) in the month of Ashadha is devoted to those who play a pivotal role in nurturing and shaping people's lives by imparting knowledge. This year, Guru Purnima will be celebrated on July 13.

Shravan month begins
The holy month of Shravan dedicated to Lord Shiva begins on July 14. According to Hindu beliefs, Shravan is the first month of the Chaturmas period, and during this month, devotees of Lord Shiva take part in the Kanwar Yatra and observe a vrat on Mondays.

Gajanan Sankashti Ganesh Chaturthi
Lord Ganesha devotees observe the Sankashti vrat on the Chaturthi Tithi, Krishna Paksha, every Hindu month. The Sankashti Vrat of Shravan, Krishna Paksha, is Gajanan Sankashti Ganesh Chaturthi. This year, it will be celebrated on July 16.

Kamika Ekadashi
Kamika Ekadashi (Ekadashi/eleventh day of the Shravan, Krishna Paksha/waning phase of the Moon) is one of the most important Ekadashis. It is said that a devotee can get rid of the Pitru Dosha by offering the holy Tulsi leaves to Lord Vishnu on this day. And by keeping a fast, one can even attain Moksha. This year, Kamika Ekadashi will be observed on July 24.

Sawan Shivratri
Devotees celebrate the Shravan Shivratri on the Chaturdashi Tithi, Shravan Krishna Paksha. This year, devotees shall celebrate Shravan Shivratri on July 26.

Hariyali Teej
Hariyali Teej, dedicated to Lord Shiva and Mata Parvati, is celebrated by women from Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Jharkhand. Dressed as new brides, married women observe a day-long fast to pray for their husband's wellbeing and good health. This year, Hariyali Teej will be celebrated on July 31.

NEW DELHI [Maha Media]: The Gregorian month of May usually concurs with the Hindu months of Vaishakha and Jyestha. During this month, several regional and pan Indian festivals are observed annually. Interestingly, this month also has numerous festivals, namely Ekadashi, Pradosh vrat, Narasimha Jayanti, Buddha Purnima etc. Scroll down to check out the festivals, dates and significance in May 2022.

Shankaracharya Jayanti, Surdas Jayanti and Ramanuja Jayanti - May 6
The 1233 birth anniversary of Adi Shankaracharya will be observed on May 17 this year. Devotees celebrate his birth anniversary on the Panchami Tithi of Vaishakha, Shukla Paksha. Two other great saints - Surdas and Ramanuja - were born on the same Tithi. Surdas is one of the greatest devotees of Shri Krishna, while Ramanuja was a great philosopher, thinker and patron of the Vaishnava sect. This year, devotees shall observe the 543rd anniversary of the poet/musician and the 1005th birth anniversary of the Shri Ramanujacharya.

Ganga Saptami - May 8
Ganga Saptami marks the date of Ganga's rebirth. First, Sage Jahnu drank the water of Ganga and prevented her from flowing any further after she unknowingly destroyed his hermitage. Subsequently, at King Bhagiratha's behest, the sage released Ganga from one of his ears on the Saptami Tithi, Vaishakha, Shukla Paksha.

Bhanu Saptami - May 9
Surya Dev, or the Sun God, is believed to have appeared for the first time on the Saptami Tithi, which fell on a Sunday. Hence, when the Saptami Tithi (seventh day) concurs with Ravivar (Sunday), devotees celebrate Bhanu Saptami to pay an ode to the Sun God.

Sita Navami - May 10
Devi Sita, the consort of Shri Rama, was born on the Navami Tithi, Vaishakha, Shukla Paksha. Therefore, devotees observe her birth anniversary.

Mohini Ekadashi and Apara Ekadashi - May 12 and May 26
The Ekadashi Tithi of Vaishakha, Shukla Paksha, is Mohini Ekadashi. Devotees of Lord Vishnu start observing a fast from the evening of the Dashami Tithi and conclude it in the morning of Dwadashi.
The Ekadashi Vrat of Jyestha, Krishna Paksha, is Apara Ekadashi. This year, Mohini and Apara Ekadashi Vrat will be kept on May 12 and May 26, respectively.

Narasimha Jayanti - May 14
Lord Narasimha, the fourth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, first appeared on the Chaturdashi Tithi, Vaishakha, Shukla Paksha. Hence, devotees celebrate his birth anniversary.

Buddha Purnima and Vaishakha Purnima Vrat - May 16
The Full Moon day (Purnima Tithi) of Vaishakha month marks Gautama Buddha's birth date. This year, Buddhists shall observe the 2584th birth anniversary of the founder of the Buddhist religion.
Interestingly, it is also a perfect day for organising the Satyanarayan Puja.

Narada Jayanti - May 17
The Pratipada Tithi of Jyestha, Krishna Paksha, marks the birth anniversary of Devarshi Narada Muni, the son of Lord Brahma and Goddess Saraswati. This year, Narada Jayanti falls on May 17.

Ekadanta Sankashti Ganesh Chaturthi - May 19
Lord Ganesha devotees shall observe a day-long fast and break it only after sighting the Moon on the Chaturthi Tithi of Vishakha, Krishna Paksha (as per the Amavasyant calendar), or Jyestha, Krishna Paksha (according to the Purnimant calendar). This year, Ekadanta Sankashti Ganesh Chaturthi will be celebrated on May 19.

Vat Savitri Vrat - May 30
Married women observe a day-long fast to pray for the well-being of their husbands. This day is celebrated to pay tribute to Savitri, who tricked Lord Yama (the God of death) into restoring her husband Satyawan's life. It is observed on the Amavasya Tithi in the month of Jyeshtha.

Shani Jayanti - May 30
Shani Jayanti is observed on the Amavasya Tithi of Jyestha Krishna Paksha. Hence, devotees pay an ode to Lord Shani, often hailed as the Lord of Justice. This year, Shani Jayanti will be celebrated on May 30.
 

Chaitra Navratri, also known as Vasant Navratri, dedicated to Goddess Durga, is just around the corner. 

Goddess Durga represents Shakti or feminine force. A legend associated with the birth of Goddess Durga suggests that the Mother Goddess possesses the combined powers of Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh (Shiva). Moreover, she was born to eliminate a demon named Mahishasura and hence referred to as Mahishasuramardini.

Her pictorial depiction shows her slaying Mahishasura with her trident. Mounted on a lion, Goddess Durga, endowed with ten hands, holds various weapons. Furthermore, the third eye adorns her forehead.

Interestingly, devotees worship Nava Durga during Navratri, and the nine forms of the Goddess are - Shailputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skanda Mata, Katyayani, Kalaratri, Maha Gauri and Siddhidatri.

And interestingly, specific colours are associated with each of the nine days. Devotees often follow the colour code and choose their clothing for the celebrations accordingly. 

Chaitra Navratri 2022 colour

Day              Date            Navdurga form                           Colours

Day 1          April 2        Ghatasthapana                Grey. Grey symbolises the destruction of evil.
Pratipada                      & Shailputri Maa

Day 2        April 3          Brahmacharini Maa         Orange. Orange symbolises tranquility, brightness and knowledge.
Dwitiya    

Day 3         April 4         Chandraghanta Maa        White. White represents peace, serenity, calm and purity.
Tritiya    

Day 4         April 5          Kushmanda Maa             Red. Red symbolises passion, auspiciousness, and anger
Chaturthi                                                                 (that is required to uproot evil).

Day 5         April 6          Skanda Mata Maa             Royal Blue. Royal Blue represents divine energy.
Panchami    

Day 6         April 7           Katyayani Maa                 Yellow. Yellow colour symbolises joy and cheerfulness
Shashti    

Day 7         April 8           Kalaratri Maa                    Green. The colour green refers to the different aspects of Mother
Saptami                                                                     Nature and its nourishing qualities. It also symbolises fertility.

Day 8          April 9          Maha Gouri Maa               Peacock Green. Peacock Green represents individuality and uniqueness.
Ashtami    

Day 9         April 10         Siddhidatri Maa                Purple. Purple symbolises luxury and grandeur.
Navami    
 

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: Today, the festival of Shri Narmada Jayanti Mahotsav is being celebrated. The Narmada River is considered to be of special importance in the culture of the country and Madhya Pradesh. 

On the occasion of Narmada Jayanti, Brahmachari Girish Ji-Head of Maharishi Educational Institutions paid his respects on the birth anniversary of Goddess Narmada. 

In his message, Brahmachari Girish Ji said many many warm wishes to all of you on the occasion of Shri Narmada Jayanti Mahotsav.
 

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: On the auspicious occasion of the 105th birthday of His Holiness Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ji, the Maharishi organisation will celebrate this day as Gyan Yug Diwas with full fervor and dignity.

As pandemic case count is increasing in the country every day, so Maharishi Organisation has decided to celebrate Gyan Yug Diwas on 12th January in limited numbers in school premises and institutions across the country following the guidelines of the State Government. 

The main function will be held online at Maharishi Utsav Bhawan in Bhopal under the leadership of Bramhachari Girish Ji- the head of Maharishi Group of Educational Institutions.  All will join the function Online. 

On 11th January, Bramhachari Girish Ji will inaugurate the celebration by performing Shri Vishnu Pujan & Shri Vishnu Sahastranaam Paath with Maharishi Vedic Pandits at 9:00 am. to 12:30 pm. After that Maharishi Vedic Pandits will perform Shri Maharudrabhishek Yagya from 2:30 to 5:30 pm. 

On 12th January, in the first session, we all will be benefitted by thoughtful and comprehensive address by Bramhachari Girish Ji and other literary dignitaries from 10:30 am. to 3:30 pm followed by Bhajan recital by selected students and teachers of MVM schools.

A great son and saint of Ved Bhoomi Bharat, His Holiness Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ji was of the opinion that 'words are the fluctuations or expressions of consciousness and the language is flow of consciousness'. When such persons with pure and refined consciousness speak, their words become very effective and leave an everlasting impression on the minds and souls of the audience. Performing from that level of consciousness, they get full support of nurturing power of the Nature to become enlightened leaders to give new directions to the society and later on to the whole country & the world.

Maharishi Ji always believed that we should all become such enlightened leaders. Seeing the difficult time all around, the presence of groups of such enlightened and orderly persons is the need of the hour. Maharishi Ji gave to the world the technique of Transcendental Meditation, its Advance Techniques and Yogic Flying to realize the goal. 

Looking to the prevailing conditions in the whole world and importance accorded by His Holiness Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ji to "Expressions from Enlightened Levels of Pure Consciousness" in establishing new trends and creating vibrancy in the society,  the theme of this year's Gyan Yug Diwas celebrations will be 'Role of  Literature in Establishing World Peace'. 

All are invited to join the programme on Ramraj TV's website, YouTube, and Facebook channel. 

Mokshada Ekadashi is one of the most auspicious and significant days to worship and offer prayers to Lord Vishnu. Mokshada Ekadashi or Vaikuntha Ekadashi is celebrated by fasting and praying to Lord Vishnu. The auspicious occasion is marked on the 11th lunar day of the fortnight of the waxing moon during the Hindu month of Margashirsha. This year, Mokshada Ekadashi falls on Tuesday, 14 December. The auspiciousness of this day lies in seeking the blessings of Lord Vishnu to attain salvation or Moksha.

Mokshada is derived from the word Moksha, meaning liberation or salvation. Interestingly, this Ekadashi is also named Vaikuntha Ekadashi because of the Lord's eternal abode.

On this particular day, Lord Krishna, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu narrated the Bhagavad Gita to King Arjuna while he was on the Kurukshetra battlefield. This is why this day is also celebrated as Geeta Jayanti.  And with as many as 700 verses, Bhagavad Gita is part of the great Indian Epic Mahabharata's Bhishma Parva. Devotees today observe the 5158th anniversary of the holy book. 

Traditional beliefs suggest that the doors to Vaikuntha remain open on this day. Therefore, those seeking salvation succeed in attaining the Lord's blessings. Devotees observe a fast from the Ekadashi eve to Dwadashi morning and perform puja. And the rituals also include the recitation of the Vrat Katha. So, ahead of Vaikuntha Ekadashi this year, know the Vaikuntha or Mokshada Ekadashi Vrat Katha.

According to the Hindu mythology and scriptures, it is believed that the devotees who observe a fast of Mokshada Ekadashi achieve Moksha and also get liberated from the Pitru Dosha. It is highly significant to observe the fast for Ekadashi as it helps the observers to get rid of all their past sins. As per the Hindu beliefs, the devotees who observe a Mokshada Ekadashi fast attain the combined merits of all other Ekadashi fasts which takes place in a Hindu year.

The mahurat of the auspicious occasion began at 9.32 pm on 13 December and will continue till 11.35 pm today. There will be Ashwani Nakshatra for the whole day. On this day there is also a Maha Audayak Yoga called Amrit, which will give longevity to the people.

Worshippers who fast on Mokshada Ekadashi do not consume any lentils, garlic, spices, or salt from the time of sunrise till the dawn of the next day. Reciting the Vishnu Sahasranama and Vrat Katha and performing aarti, puja, are done by devotees to achieve moksha from the cycle of rebirth and absolve oneself of sins.

Vaikuntha Ekadashi Vrat Katha
According to one of the legends associated with Mokshada Ekadashi or Vaikuntha Ekadashi, there lived a benevolent king who was loved by his subjects. He was content with everything he was blessed with. However, one night, a scary dream woke him up. He saw his late father suffering in hell. Disturbed by the dream's tormenting visuals, the King sought help from the learned Brahmins in his kingdom.

And after learning about the King's dream, the Brahmins asked him to consult Parvat Muni (a learned sage), who could interpret the message sent to him through the disturbing dream.

Subsequently, the King visited Parvat Muni and learnt about a sin committed by his father during his lifetime. And to rid himself of the shadows of the sin, the Sage asked the King and his entire family to observe the Vaikuntha or Mokshada Ekadashi Vrat. And soon after keeping the Vrat with utmost devotion and sincerity, the King was able to help his late father attain Moksha.

BHOPAL (Maha Media): Brahmachari Girish Ji, the head of Maharishi Group of Educational Institutions on Friday greeted people on Shri Gurunanak Jayanti and Kartik Purnima.

In his message, Girish Ji said that "Many many congratulations and best wishes to all of you on the auspicious Prakash Parv of Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji and Kartik Purnima .

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: Three days Deepawali Celebration was organised at all the Maharishi Centers countrywide. On the second day, Shri Hanuman Jayanti Celebration, Brahmachari Girish Ji- the head of Maharishi Group of Educational Institutions on Wednesday performed puja with Maharishi Vedic Pundits and Vedic Vidhan at Brahmanand Saraswati Ashram, Chaan Bhopal.

On this auspicious occasion, Brahmachari Girish Ji said that “Hanuman Ji is known to be the greatest devotee of Bhagwan Shri Ram, there is a lot to learn from Hanuman Ji and to introduce in our day to day life for better administration of our life”.

“Heartiest wishes to all of you on Hanuman Jayanti. Lord Hanuman may bring health, happiness, and prosperity to everyone's life, and keep his blessings on everyone,"

On the final day of Deepawali celebration, Shri Mahalakshmi Pujan will be performed with Yajurveda mantras.
 

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: Under the divine presence of Brahmachari Girish Ji, Hon'ble Chairman of Maharishi Group of Educational Institutions, Maharishi organisation celebrated ‘Shri Dhanvantari Jayanti Celebration’ at Brahmanand Saraswati Ashram, Chaan Bhopal.

On this auspicious occasion, Brahmachari Girish Ji offered prayers to Lord Dhanvantari with Maharishi Vedic Pundits and Vedic Vidhan. Almost 3 hours long Poojan of Bhagwan Dhanvantari was performed with Sankalpa of creating a disease-free society.  

In his message, Brahmachari Ji said that "Heartiest greetings of Dhanvantari Trayodashi! May Lord Dhanvantari bless the whole world with happiness, prosperity, good luck, and good health.

Dhanvantari Trayodashi is observed two days before Diwali Puja. As the name suggests it is observed during Trayodashi Tithi of Krishna Paksha. The day is celebrated as the birth anniversary of Lord Dhanvantari, the teacher and the father of Ayurveda. Lord Dhanvantari is the physician of Gods and is considered one of the incarnations of Lord Vishnu. The day of Dhanvantari Trayodashi is also known as Dhanvantari Jayanti.

Diwali festivities are usually spread over five days. The celebrations start with Dhanteras (the Thirteenth day of the waning phase of the Lunar fortnight in Kartik month). This day is also known as Dhanatrayodashi. At the same time, in other regions, the festival begins with Govatsa Puja one day before, i.e. Dwadashi Tithi (the twelfth day of the waning phase of the Lunar fortnight in Kartik month). Finally, on the fourteenth day (Chaturdashi Tithi), people celebrate Naraka Chaturdashi, popularly known as Choti Diwali, and on the following day, i.e., the Amavasya Tithi, Badi Diwali is commemorated. 

GOVATSA DWADASHI
Govatsa Dwadashi is observed on the Dwadashi Tithi, Kartik, Krishna Paksha (twelfth day during the waning phase of the Moon in Kartik month, as per Purnimant calendar). The same festival is celebrated in the Ashwin month as per the Amavasyant calendar. Only the names of the month differ, but the date of celebrations remain the same. This year, Govatsa Dwadashi will be celebrated on November 1.

Hindus hail cows as Gau Mata (Mata meaning Mother). Therefore, cows are worshipped and celebrated for nourishing humankind. Calves represent Nandini, while the mother cows symbolise her divine mother cow Kamadhenu who resided at sage Vashishta's ashram (hermitage). Devotees also worship bulls and oxen on this day, as they play a pivotal role in agriculture. 

Therefore as a mark of respect, devotees feed wheat and sprouts to the cattle and refrain from consuming foods made of wheat and milk products. 

In Maharashtra, this festival is celebrated as Vasu Baras, while in Gujarat, it is referred to as Vagh Baras. On this day, in Gujarat, people settle accounts and financial dues ahead of the New Year celebrated three days later.

The Pradosh Kaal shubh muhurat is between 5:36 PM to 8:11 PM

DHANTERAS
Dhanteras, traditionally known as Dhantrayodashi, is celebrated on the Trayodashi Tithi (Thirteenth tithi), Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the Moon) of Kartik Maas. And on this day, devotees worship Lord Kubera, Lord Dhanvantari, Yamraj and Goddess Lakshmi. This year, Dhanteras will be celebrated on November 2.

Dhantrayodashi is associated with several deities. For example, it is said that on this day, in the Satyuga, Lord Dhanvantari (the God of medicines) and Devi Lakshmi (Goddess of wealth) emerged from the Kshirasagara (cosmic ocean) during Samudra Manthan. This activity took place between the Asuras (demons) and the Devas (Gods) to obtain the Amrit (divine nectar of immortality).

Lord Dhanvantari, an avatar of Lord Vishnu, appeared from the Kshirasagara holding a Kalash containing the divine elixir. Therefore, devotees worship him for good health and long life.

And Devi Lakshmi, the consort of Vishnu and the Goddess of wealth, also appeared from the Samudra Manthan. Hence devotees worship her also on Dhanteras. They pray for a wealthy and prosperous life.

Interestingly, Lord Kubera, the treasurer or the God of wealth, is also worshipped on Dhanteras. Devotees worship Kubera to seek his blessings for a life devoid of financial troubles.

And last but not least, devotees also pay obeisance to Lord Yamraj, the God of death on this day, by lighting an earthen lamp and keeping it outside the main entrance of their home to ward off any threat to life. Thus, by praying to Lord Yama, devotees ward off the untimely death of their family members.

The Shubh Muhurat on Dhanteras is between 6:17 PM to 8:11 PM

CHOTI DIWALI - NARAKA CHATURDASHI
Named after Narakasura, this festival is of great significance as it marks the end of the demon at the hands of Shri Krishna's consort Satyabhama.

Narakasura was the son of Bhudevi and Lord Varaha (an avatar of Shri Vishnu). However, he turned so destructive that his existence proved detrimental to the Universe. He knew that no one else other than his mother, Bhudevi, could kill him as per Lord Brahma's boon. Therefore, he became complacent. Once, he attacked Lord Krishna. And the latter's consort, Sathyabhama, an incarnation of Bhudevi, retaliated with much vigour and courage. She killed Narakasura, thereby consecrating Brahma's boon.

However, before breathing his last, Narakasura pleaded to Bhudevi (Satyabhama), sought her blessings, and wished for a boon. He wanted to be alive in people's memory. Therefore, Naraka Chaturdashi is celebrated by lighting earthen lamps and doing the Abhyanga Snan.

Symbolically, people celebrate this day to rid themselves of evil, negativities, laziness, and sin. It signifies liberation from everything harmful and things that stop us from walking the right path.

Abhyanga Snan signifies the elimination of evil and the purification of the mind and the body. On this day, people first apply sesame oil on their head and body and then cleanse it with Ubtan (a traditional mixture of flours that serves as soap). 

And according to another legend, Goddess Kali killed Narakasura and triumphed over him. Hence, some people refer to this day as Kali Chaudas. Therefore, Kali puja is performed on this day in the Eastern part of the country.

Abhayanga Snan shubh muhurat-5:40 AM to 6:03 AM

BADI DIWALI - LAKSHMI PUJAN
The main festival is celebrated on the Amavasya Tithi (New Moon night), a day deemed ideal for remembering the deceased ancestors. And there are various legends associated with this day that establish the significance of Diwali celebrations. 

Diwali is an important festival for Hindus around the world. It is also celebrated by Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists. Diwali commemorates the return of Lord Rama to his kingdom, Ayodhya, after an exile period of 14 years. People of Ayodhya lit the city brightly and welcomed Rama, Lakshman and Sita by firing crackers.

Diwali festival is also believed to be the symbol of Goddess Lakshmi coming home. Thus people celebrate by lighting many clay lamps called ‘Diyas’ around their homes. This signifies the victory of good over evil and that is why Diwali is also known as the festival of lights. People worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Ganesha on this day as they are believed to bring good luck, prosperity and wealth.

Interestingly, in most regions, people celebrate Diwali by performing Goddess Lakshmi's puja. Moreover, Diwali night is the New Year's even as per the traditional Gujarati calendar.

The Shubh Muhurat for performing the Lakshmi Pujan is between 6:09 PM to 8:04 PM.

GOVARDHAN PUJA
Devotees of Lord Krishna perform the Govardhan puja or Annakut on the Pratipada Tithi, Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the Moon) in the Hindu month of Kartik. This year, the Govardhan puja will be performed on November 5.

Devotees pray to Shri Krishna and thank the Govardhan Parvat that he lifted with his little finger to rescue the people of the Braj Bhoomi after Indra Dev caused massive floods to avenge them. Therefore, on this day, people offer a variety of food preparations to the Lord and the Govardhan Parvat. In some places, Chhapan Bhog, a platter consisting of 56 recipes, are made and offered to the deity as a mark of gratitude. The food is presented as a miniature mountain, and hence it is also referred to as Annakut. Devotees in the Braj region circumambulate the remains of the Govardhan Parvat. Thus they pay their tributes to it.

Govardhan Puja prataha kaal muhurat- 6:36 AM to 8:47 AM
Govardhan Puja sain kaal muhurat - 3:22 PM to 5:33 PM
 

BHAI DOOJ
Bhai Dooj is observed on the Dwitiya Tithi, Shukla Paksha of the Kartik month. This year, Bhai Dooj will be celebrated on November 6.

Bhai Dooj is a festival that celebrates the bond shared between a brother and a sister. On this day, like Raksha Bandhan, siblings unite for a sacred ritual and then enjoy a feast together. 

This day, brothers visit the sister if she is married and away. If not married and in the same home, siblings get together to do the tikka ceremony. Sisters ready an aarti platter with Diya, sweetmeats, gold ring, Kumkum Tilak and do an Aukshan or aarti ritual, praying for the long life of the brother. Brothers surprise the sisters with gifts, sweets are prepared and shared.

This festival is a tribute to the bond between Lord Yama and his sister, the Yamuna.

The Bhai Dooj 2021 Shubh Muhurat is between 1:10 PM to 3:21 PM.
 

Hindus refer to the Full Moon Day as the Purnima Tithi, and it is deemed one of the best days to worship the family deity or the Satya Narayan form of Lord Vishnu. And since there are twelve Lunar months, Purnima Tithi is observed twelve times a year. However, the one that falls in the month of Ashwin is the most significant. Hence, this Full Moon Day is widely celebrated in several Indian states. Interestingly, the term Sharad indicates the Autumn season, and thus the name Sharad Purnima. This year, Kojagiri Purnima will be observed today. 

The literal meaning of Kojagiri is the one who is awakened, and therefore this day is also named Jagrit Purnima. Unmarried w?men keep f?st in the hope of finding a suitable gr??m. Just like Diwali, people light up their homes with diyas. 

Sharad Purnima is considered to be the most auspicious Purnima among all the other ones. Lord Krishna, the incarnation of Lord Vishnu, is believed to be born with 16 kalas. And on the night of Shard Purnima, it is believed that the moon comes out with all 16 kalas and moon rays emit healing properties that have the power to heal our body and mind.

Preparing rice kheer and leaving it in the moonlight for the entire night is the most important ritual of Sharad Purnima. The day after Sharad Purnima, the kheer is distributed and consumed as prasad in the morning.

In sever?l Indi?n st?tes, Sh?r?d ?urnim? is ?ls? ?elebr?ted ?s ? harvest festival. Many devotees w?rshi? G?ddess L?kshmi ?nd L?rd Shiv?. It is believed th?t G?ddess L?kshmi descends on earth and bestows her devotees with divine blessings. Hence, to celebrate her ‘aagaman’, people sing bhajans, dance and stay awake the entire night.

People, especially women observe the day-long Sharad Purnima fast (vrat) and prayers to Goddess Laxmi and Lord Vishnu. The puja samagri must include incense, lamp, kheer as an offering. Many people also feed brahmans and provide offerings to pandits.

In several parts of eastern India such as Bengal, Assa, Odisha, eastern Bihar, Goddess Lakshmi or Maa Lokkhi is worshipped on Sharad Purnima. Maa Lokkhi as Lakshmi or the goddess of wealth is called in Bengali is described as chapala or fickle-minded and so devotees worship Lakshmi to win her affection and blessings. According to legend, the Goddess Lakshmi visits the houses of people to bless them when they worship her at night. Kojagari is derived from the Bengali words Ke Jago Re meaning 'who is awake' and it is believed that the goddess visits houses where people worship her on that night. 

Kojagiri Purnima: Tithi timings
The Purnima Tithi begins at 7:03 PM on October 19 and ends at 8:26 PM on October 20.

Moonrise time
The Moon is expected to rise at 5:20 PM

Puja shubh muhurat
The Sharad Purnima puja must be performed between 11:41 PM on October 19 to 12:31 AM on October 20.

Kojagiri or Sharad Purnima significance
* Various legends are associated with Kojagiri Purnima, and each establishes the importance of this Full Moon Day.
* On the day of Sharad Purnima, the Moon emerges with all its sixteen Kalas or phases. And each of these Kala represents a virtue/quality. 
* Interestingly, Shri Krishna (the ninth avatar of Lord Vishnu), born in the Dwapar Yuga to Vasudev and Devaki, was endowed with sixteen Kalas. Moreover, on the day of Sharad Purnima, Shri Krishna performed the Raas Leela with the Gopis of the Braj region. During Raas Leela (Maha Raas), hailed as the divine dance of love, Shri Krishna reflected several images of himself to accompany each Gopi. 
* As per a widespread religious belief, the Moon rays have healing properties on this specific day. Therefore, people follow the tradition of preparing kheer (milk and rice pudding) at night and leave it overnight under the moonlight. And on the following day, this food preparation enhanced by the rays of the Moon is consumed as Prasad.
* However, in some regions, folklore suggests that Goddess Lakshmi visits the earth at night. Therefore, devotees worship her on the day of Sharad Purnima and seek her blessings for a prosperous life.
* And interestingly, devotees who hail from various regions worship different deities on this day. For example, some people worship Indra Dev, while some offer their prayers to Lakshmi Devi, the Goddess of wealth. And in some regions, Lord Shiva, his consort Parvati and Nandi, his vahana are revered. Moreover, it is a harvest festival for some people as it marks the end of the monsoon season.
 

Today is the Ekadashi Tithi (eleventh day), Bhadrapada, Krishna Paksha (waning or the dark phase of the Lunar cycle). So devotees of Lord Vishnu shall observe the Aja Ekadashi Vrat today and break it tomorrow. And the ritual of ending the vrat is known as Parana.

Usually, the Ekadashi vrat begins on the eve, i.e., on the Dashami Tithi (tenth day). And interestingly, this vrat is kept to seek Lord Vishnu's blessings for a prosperous life on earth and the journey afterlife. Moreover, devotees wish to attain salvation (Moksha) and seek refuge in Vaikuntha (the Lord's heavenly abode). 

Each Ekadashi has a specific name and a presiding day. On Aja Ekadashi, Shri Vishnu's Hrishikesh form is worshipped. 

It is mentioned in the Hindu Puranas and holy scriptures that when a person keeps the Aja Ekadashi vrat with full devotion, all his sins of the present life will be pardoned. His/her life will also be filled with happiness and prosperity, and after death they will be taken to Lord Vishnu’s dham, ‘Vaikunta’. It is also believed that by observing the Aja Ekadashi vrat, the person gets the same benefits as those by performing the ‘Ashwamegh Yagya’.

Timings

Aja Ekadashi Vrat 2021 Parana Date
This year, the Parana day for Aja Ekadashi Vrat is September 4 (Saturday).

Aja Ekadashi Vrat 2021 Parana Time
The Aja Ekadashi Parana must be done between 6:01 AM to 8:24 AM on Saturday.

Aja Ekadashi Vrat Katha
Each Ekadashi has a specific name and a presiding day. For instance, on Aja Ekadashi, Vishnu's Hrishikesh form is worshipped. And there's a meaningful legend associated with it. Here's how the story unfolds.

According to one of the legends, the Aja Ekadashi vrat finds a mention in the Brahmavaivarta Purana. As per the Katha, there lived an honest, generous and able king named Harishchandra. He was a classic example of a true statesman. However, one day, he lost his kingdom, his belongings as well as his family. Circumstances compelled him to work at a crematorium. He did his job with utmost devotion but felt shattered from within. The king wondered what wrong he did and the reasons behind his downfall. 

One day, Rishi Gautam saw him and instantly recognised him And after learning about his unfortunate situation, Rishi Gautam asked him to observe the Aja Ekadashi vrat. The nobleman said that the king may have sinned in his previous birth, and the struggles in his present life could result from his last life's poor Karma. Therefore, the Rishi suggested Harishchandra must observe vrat on Aja Ekadashi to rid himself of the burden of any wrong he may have done in the past or previous births.

Harishchandra followed Rishi's advice with sincere devotion. And soon, he reaped the fruits of his service. In the end, he regained his kingdom and also found his lost family.

Aja Ekadashi Vrat Parana Vidhi
* Rise early, around Brahma Muhurat (around two hours before sunrise) on Dwadashi Tithi (September 4).
* Take a bath and wear clean clothes.
* Meditate (do Dhyana) and connect your inner self with Lord Vishnu.
* Light an oil (sesame or mustard) lamp or ghee lamp (Deep) and incense (Agarbatti and Dhoop).
* Invoke Lord Vishnu while chanting the 'OM Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya' Mantra as many times as you can.
* Offer water (Jal), flowers (Pushpa) and bhog (fruits or sweets or any other Sattvic food preparation) to the deity. You can do the Parana, even if you do not have flowers and fruits to offer.
* Seek forgiveness for any wrong you may have done while observing the fast.
* Donate vegetarian food preparations without onion/garlic to the needy.
* Break your fast only after donating food/essentials to the less privileged.
* End the vrat during the time mentioned above.
* Do the Parana by consuming only Sattvic foods (vegetarian preparation without garlic, onion or any other tamasic/heat-generating ingredient.)
 

Shri Krishna Janmashtami will be celebrated tonight. The puja shall be performed at Nishita Kaal (at around 12 AM) because Shri Krishna was born to Devaki on Ashtami Tithi in the month of Bhadrapada Krishna Paksha when Rohini Nakshatra prevailed at midnight. People observe a day-long fast and break it only after completing the puja or until Ashtami Tithi ends. 

Krishna Janmashtami Puja Muhurat 
Shri Krishna was born at midnight. Therefore, the puja is performed during Nishita Kaal. This year's puja's timings are between 11:59 PM on August 30 to 12:44 AM on August 31.

Krishna Janmashtami Puja Vidhi
For the puja, you would need Tulsi leaves, white unsalted butter, Chandan etc. Click here to check out the complete list of Puja Samagri.

Here's the Puja Vidhi:

Dhaynam - Connect your inner self with Lord Krishna by meditating and chanting his name.

Asana - Respectfully place the idol of Lord Krishna on the palna/jhoola. Those who do not have a palna/jhoola can place the idol on a wooden platform (chowki) decorated with Rangoli.

Padya - Offer water to the Lord's feet.

Arghya - Offer water to the Lord.

Achaman- Drink water from your palm after offering it to God.

Snana - Offer water to the Lord for bathing. 

Vastra - Offer a fresh piece of cloth/ dress to baby Krishna. Make the idol of Baby Krishna wear the new dress.

Yagnopaveeth - Offer the sacred Janeu. Put it diagonally over the left shoulder and under the right arm.

Gandha - Offer Chandan paste

Abharanam Hastabhushan -  Offer jewellery, mor mukut and the flute.

Pushpa - Offer flowers and Tulsi leaves.

Dhoop - Offer incense sticks and dhoop

Deep - Offer an oil lamp

Naivedhya - Offer Bhog to God and Makhan

Tambulam - Offer a platter that consists of fruits, a whole coconut, paan and supari, haldi and kumkum.

Dakshina - Offer currency notes or coins

Aarti - Sing the "Kunj Bihari Aarti".

Pradakshina or Parikrama/ Circumambulate - Stand up on your feet and turn around from your right.

Pushpanjali - Offer flowers and do pranam.

Namaskar - Bow before the deity

Kshama Yachana - Seek forgiveness for any mistake that you may have committed while performing the puja.

Krishna Janmashtami Vrat Katha
The birth of Lord Krishna is one of the fascinating and captivating tales. His birth anniversary is observed on the Ashtami Tithi, Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the Moon), when Rohini Nakshatra in the month of Bhadrapada.

For the unversed, Lord Vishnu appears on Earth every time Adharma rises and causes massive devastation. Therefore, he incarnates time and again to reinstate Dharma. Lord Krishna eliminated tyrant Kansa, his maternal uncle. He also presented the Bhagavad Gita for the benefit of humanity. 

This year, ahead of Shri Krishna Janmashtami, read on to know more about Krishna's birth. Here's how the story unfolds...

Before the birth of Lord Krishna, Shri Vishnu asked Goddess Yogmaya (a manifestation of Mother Goddess) to help him in his mission. Therefore, Goddess Yogmaya took birth at Yashoda and Nanda's house in Gokul. At the same time, in Mathura, Shri Krishna was born to Devaki and Vasudev (a couple held captive in a dark prison by Kansa). 

With divine intervention, Vasudev (mentally in an unconscious state), carried baby Krishna to Gokul. Rains lashed Mathura and the adjoining Braj region on an eventful night. Vasudev put the baby in a basket, held it on top of his head and crossed the river Yamuna to visit his friend Nanda's house in Gokul. Meanwhile, Shesh Nag, Shri Vishnu's loyal servant, appeared to protect the baby from the rains by spreading its five-headed hood. After reaching Nanda's house, Vasudev exchanged the babies. 

Subsequently, when Kansa learnt about the birth of Devaki's eighth child, he took the baby away. Oblivious that the baby girl was not Devaki and Vasudev's eighth child, Kansa went on to kill it. And as he raised his weapon in the air to kill it, the baby slipped off his hands and appeared in the sky to reveal her true form. Eventually, Kansa made several attempts to trace baby Krishna's whereabouts, but in the end, he got punished for all his wrongdoings.

Krishna Mantras and Slokas

Krishna Mantras
Shri Krishna Govind Hare Murari

Hey Nath Narayan Vasudeva

Krishna Moola Mantra

OM Krishnaya Namah

I bow before you, O Krishna!

Krishna Maha Mantra
Hare Krishna Hare Krishna Krishna Krishna Hare Hare

Hare Rama Hare Rama Rama Rama Hare Hare

By chanting this Mantra, you can seek the blessings of Shri Rama as well as Shri Krishna, the two avatars of Shri Vishnu.

Krishna Gayatri Mantra 
OM Devaki Nandaya Vidmahe Vasudevaya Dheemahi Tanno Krishna Prachodayat

Salutations to one son of Devaki and Vasudeva, bless me with wisdom so that I can gain higher intellect

Another version of the Krishna Gayatri Mantra -

Om Damodaraya Vidhmahe Rukmani Vallabhay Dheemahe Tanno Krishna Prachodayath

Salutations to the one who was tied to a mortar with a rope, Oh consort of Rukmini, I bow before you. Illuminate my mind.

Krishna Mantra for success

OM Shri Krishnah Sharanam Mamah

I bow before your feet, O Krishna!

Lord Balaram, the elder brother of Shri Krishna, is also known as Balbhadra or Halayudha. This is because he epitomises strength, and hence the name Balaram. Moreover, he is seen carrying a plough and a pestle in his hands. Therefore, he is also associated with agriculture. 

Balaramji's main weapon is plow and pestle. Therefore, he is also called Haladhar. The name of this festival is called Hal Shashti after him. In the eastern districts of our country, it is also called Lalai Chhath. 

As per certain sects, he is believed to be the eighth avatar (incarnation) of Lord Vishnu. However, according to another belief system, he is an avatar of Shesh Nag, the five/seven-headed serpent of Shri Vishnu. 

On Sashti Tithi, Krishna Paksha Bhadrapada (sixth day during the waning phase of the Lunar cycle in Bhadrapada month), devotees shall celebrate Balaram Jayanti (the birth anniversary of Balaram). Hence, as celebrations begin today.

On this day, there is a law to make mahue tooth. In this fast, the use of fruits and grains mixed by plow is forbidden. Use of cow's milk curd is also prohibited on this day. Buffalo milk and yogurt are used.

The Sashti Tithi began at around 6:48 PM on August 27 and shall end at 8:56 PM on August 28.

Know more about Lord Balaram
The story of the birth of Lord Balaram is a fascinating tale. He was conceived by Devaki (Vasudev's second wife), held captive in prison by her cousin and the tyrant ruler of Mathura, Kansa. A divine prophecy had cautioned Kansa about the cause of his death. It had revealed that Devaki's eighth child would be the cause of his death. Therefore, to escape death, Kansa killed all of Devaki's six babies soon after they were born. Finally, however, the divine powers intervened and transferred the seventh foetus from Devaki's womb to Rohini's womb. (For the unversed, Rohini was Vasudev's first Queen). Meanwhile, Rohini had found a safe shelter in Nanda and Yashoda's house in Gokul. 

Law of worship
In the morning, after bathing in the morning, a small pond is made by leaping the earth in which strawberry, palash, bunches are tied to each branch and every chhath made by it is buried and worshiped. In worship, roasted lava of satanja (wheat, gram, paddy, maize, sorghum, millet, barley) etc. is offered. Turmeric is also dyed and suhag material is dyed.

After the worship, the following mantra is prayed -

Neel Parvate of Kushavate Vilva at the gate of Ganga |
Sanyatya Kankhale Devi Haran Sandhavati Patim ||
Llithe subhage devi sukh saubhagya daayini |
Anant Dehi Saubhagya Mahman Tubhyam Namo Namah ||

Meaning - O Goddess! Taking a bath in Gangadwar, Kushavarta, Vilvak, Neel Parvat and Kanakhal Tirtha, Lord Shankar is attained as a husband. Lalita Devi, who gives happiness and good luck, is a very good greeting to you, please give me a steady honeymoon.

The story of Hal Sasthi (Hal Sasthi Katha)
The delivery time of a pregnant Gwlynn was near. She was suffering from childbirth. His curd-butter was kept for sale. He thought that if delivery was done, curd-butter would not be sold.

Thinking this, he put milk and yogurt pot on his head and went to sell, but on reaching some distance, he suffered unbearable labor. She went to a strawberry tree and gave birth to a child there.

She left the child there and went to sell milk and curd in the nearby villages. Incidentally, that day was Hull Shashthi. He sold the mixed milk of cow and buffalo only to the villagers by referring to buffalo milk.

On the other hand, a farmer was plowing the field near the strawberry under which he had left the child. Suddenly his oxen erupted and the child died due to plowing fruit into the body.

The farmer was very sad due to this incident, yet he acted with courage and patience. He put stitches in the child's clenched stomach with strawberry thorns and left him there. After some time Gwaleen arrived there after selling milk. Seeing such a child's condition, it did not take him long to understand that all this is a punishment for his sin.

She started thinking that if I had not sold cow's milk in lieu and had not corrupted the religion of the women of the village, my child would not have this condition. Therefore, I should return and tell all things to the villagers and make atonement.

Having decided this, she reached the village where she had sold milk and curd. He went around the street and told about his milk and curd and also about the punishment he received as a result. The women then forgave and blessed him with self-defense and taking pity on him.

When she reached the bottom of the strawberry after taking blessings from many women, she was surprised to see that her son was lying there in a living state. Then he considered lying for selfishness as a Brahman murder and vowed never to lie.
 

Gayatri Jayanti is observed as the birth anniversary of Goddess Gayatri, the Goddess of Veda. Being the Goddess of all Veda, Goddess Gayatri is also known as Veda Mata.

It is believed that Goddess Gayatri is manifestation of all phenomenal attributes of Brahman. She is also worshipped as the Goddess of Hindu Trimurti. She is considered as the mother of all Gods and embodiment of Goddess Saraswati, Goddess Parvati and Goddess Lakshmi.

Most people, especially in South India, observe Gayatri Jayanti during Shravana Purnima. According to Matantara i.e. due to the difference of opinions to observe Gayatri Jayanti, it is also observed on Shukla Paksha Ekadashi during Jyeshtha lunar month. Matantara Gayatri Jayanti is usually observed on the next day of Ganga Dussehra.

Devotees observe Gayatri Jayanti by making special prayers to Gayatri Mata and by repeatedly chanting Gayatri Mantra.

In modern India, Gayatri Jayanti day during Shravana Purnima is observed as Sanskrit Diwas, a day to mark the importance of Sanskrit language. Various activities, seminars and workshops are organized on the day of Sanskrit Diwas to promote the Vedic language. In current time, the usage of Sanskrit has been limited to only Puja-Patha and academic activities.

Gayatri also takes a five-headed Shakti form with ten arms, as explained in the Purana, to kill the demon Vetra. She holds the sword, the lotus, the trident, the disc, the skull, Varada in the left hand and the goad, the noose, a manuscript, the jar of ambrosia and Abhaya in the right. 

Gayatri Mantra
Om Bhur Bhuwah Svah Tat Savitur Varenyam
Bhargo Devasya Dhimahi Dhiyo Yo Nah Prachodayat

Meaning:
We meditate on the glory of the Creator; Who has created the Universe;
Who is worthy of Worship; Who is the embodiment of Knowledge and Light;
Who is the remover of all Sin and Ignorance; May He enlighten our Intellect.

Benifits of Gayatri Puja on Gayatri Jayanti
This is one of the most auspicious activity one can ever perform on Gayatri Jayanti. Performing Gayatri Puja, Mantra Japa and Yajna is best for intelligence, wisdom and righteous living among members, materialistic comforts and spiritual upliftment for the family, self-confidence, self-worth and self-advancement of individual members. This Yajna includes invocation of major Gods and Goddesses in Kalash, recitation of Maa Gayatri Kavach and Stotram, Gayatri Yantra Pujan, path of Gayatri Chalisa, Gayatri Mantra Japa, Gayatri Yagna, Aarti and Pushpaanjali. 

24 forms of Gayatri mentioned in Devi Bhagvat Purana

Adi shakti: Associated with the production, development and transformation of material manifestations or cosmos.
Brahmi or Brahmani: Associated with the force that enables Brahma to produce the cosmos in different varieties.
Vaishnavi: Associated with the energy of Lord Vishnu, Lakshmi and Sato Guna (mode of goodness)
Shambhavi aka Maheshwari Matrika: Associated with the energy of Lord Shiva in destroying and correcting the wrong or demonic.
Vedamata: Associated with all the Vedas (Rig, Sama, Yajur and Atharva) as their mother.
Devamata: Associated with the godly qualities such as bring charitable, compassionate, devotional and the like.
Vishvamata: Associated with the world as its mother.
Mandakini aka Ganga: Associated with the divinity of River Ganga.
Ajapa: Associated with the highest state a devotee attains with the Lord.
Riddhi and Siddhi: Associated with spiritual attainment and material opulence.
Rtambhara: Associated with self-realisation or liberation from the pangs of material nature.
Savitri: Associated with the spiritual energy that sustains the matter.
Lakshmi: Associated with auspiciousness and opulence
Durga/Kali: Associated with kala, the Time.
Saraswati: Associated with the knowledge, the intellect and the sense of understanding
Kundalini: Associated with the yogic power or kundalini for self-realization.
Annupurna: Associated with food.
Mahamaya: Associated with the delusion the weaker humans are put into.
Payasvini: Associated with the elixir of immortality (self-realisation) and milk of a cow (purity personified).
Pranagni: Associated with the Fire element in the body. 
Treyta or Tripura: Associated with the dominance over the three spheres of existence sat-chit-ananda (eternity,knowledge and bliss).
Bhavani: Associated with the power that protects the surrendered, the weak and the unarmed.
Bhuvaneswari: Associated with the person’s prosperity and bliss.
 

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: Sahasrasheersha Devi Mandal – female wing of Maharishi World Peace Movement celebrated Hariyali Teej in a grand manner at Maharishi Vedic Sanskritik Kendra, Arera Colony on Wednesday. 

The programme started with the introduction by Ms. Neha Sharma followed by Guru Pujan and Lighting of lamp. All the present members Sahasrasheersha Devi Mandal also participated in Group meditation. Smt. Suman Yadav-District Secretary, Bhopal briefed about aims, objectives and activities of of the Maharishi World Peace Movement and Sahasrasheersha Devi Mandal in her welcome speech. Dr Breeze Tirpathi-District President Bhopal and Chairperson of Rakshita Welfare Society greeted all for auspicious ‘Hariyali Teej’ and spoke about the importance of this festival for women. Dr Breeze further added that everyone should plant at least one tree on this festival every year. 

Smt. Reeta Prakasham-State President, MP spoke about Maharishi Ji’s knowledge and adviced the audience to spread this knowledge as much as possible to create heaven on earth. 

On this occasion, Mehendi competition and “Sing a Song” game was also organized. In Mehendi competition Smt. Niharika Saxena, Maharishi Vidya Mandir, Ayodhya Nagar won the first prize and Smt.Renuka Sinha, Maharishi Centre for Educational Excellence won the second prize. In “Sing a Song” game, Smt. Jyoti Shukla of Maharishi Vidya Mandir, Ayodhya Nagar won the first prize and Smt.Punita Chaturvedi, Maharishi Vidya Mandir, Ratanpur bagged the second prize. 

Plantation was done at Maharishi Vidya Mandir, Trilanga and 50 plants were planted. 

The programme was concluded with the vote of thanks by Smt.Arya Nandkumar, National Secretary-Communication, Maharishi World Peace Movement. 

Today is the Ekadashi Tithi, Ashadha, Krishna Paksha. Interestingly, the name of the month differs in the Amavasyant tradition. Therefore, for those following the Amanta calendar, the ongoing month is Jyeshtha. Nonetheless, the Tithi and significance remain the same. The Ekadashi of Ashadha/Jyeshtha Krishna Paksha is referred to as Yogini Ekadashi. Therefore, devotees of Shri Vishnu shall pay an ode to the deity by observing a vrat (fast). And the ritual of breaking the fast is called Parana. Yogini Ekadashi is regarded as one of the most important Ekadashis which helps devotees to get relieved from various health ailments. 

According to the North Indian calendar, Yogini Ekadashi falls during Krishna Paksha of Ashadha month and during Krishna Paksha of Jyeshta month according to the South Indian calendar.

As per the Georgian calendar, Yogini Ekadashi falls in the month of June or July. However, this year, Yogini Ekadashi will be observed today on July 5, 2021. The Ekadashi Tithi begins at 19:55 on Jul 04, 2021, and ends at 22:30 on Jul 05, 2021.

On this day, people fast and perform puja to get bestowed with the divine blessings of Lord Vishnu. It is believed that the one who observes a Yogini Ekadashi Vrat gets absolved of his/her past and present sins.

Parana time
Parana means breaking the fast. As per our vedic pandits, devotees who observe a day-long fast, break it on the next day when Dwadashi Tithi prevails.

* On Jul 6, Parana time is from 05:29 to 08:16
* On Parana Day Dwadashi End Moment: 01:02, Jul 07

The most preferred time to break the fast is Pratahkal. One should avoid breaking the fast during Madhyahna. If due to some reason one is not able to break the fast during Pratahkal then one should do it after Madhyahna.
 

Yogini Ekadashi Vrat Katha
In a heavenly kingdom named Alkapuri ruled by King Kuber, there lived a gardener called Hem. The king, a great devotee of Lord Shiva, would perform puja of the deity every day and offer flowers that Hem would fetch from the Manasarovar. One day, when Hem went to do his routine work, he got enticed by his wife, Vishalakshi's beauty and lost complete control over himself. 

Elsewhere, the king expected Hem to arrive with the flowers, but he sent his men to find the gardener after waiting for a while. Finally, after searching for hours, the king's men found Hem with his wife in Manasarovar.

Subsequently, Hem appeared before the king, who fumed with anger. And in a fit of rage, the king cursed Hem and expelled him from heaven. Soon after facing the king's ire, Hem landed on earth, got separated from his wife and contracted a skin disease. He wandered in the forest in search of food and water and felt guilty for offending the king. 

One day, he accidentally visited Sage Markandeya's ashram and sought his advice. He wondered what he could do to seek forgiveness for the blunder he has committed. Therefore, the sage suggested he must observe a vrat on the Ekadashi Tithi of Ashadha, Krishna Paksha and worship Lord Vishnu. Subsequently, Hem kept the vrat and, as a result, regained his lost form.

Yogini Ekadashi Vrat Parana Rules
* Rise early, preferably during Brahma Muhurat (approximately two hours before sunrise) on Dwadashi Tithi.
* Take a bath and wear clean clothes.
* Do Dhyana (Meditation).
* Light an oil lamp (Deep) and incense (Agarbatti and Dhoop) and place them on the altar in your home. You may also keep an idol or image of Lord Vishnu on it.
* Invoke Lord Vishnu and chant the 'OM Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya' Mantra as many times as you can.
* Offer your prayers while making offerings with water (Jal), flowers (Pushpa) and bhog (fruits or sweets or any other Sattvic food preparation) to the deity. Please note, fruits and flowers are optional. 
* Seek forgiveness for any error you may have made while observing the fast.
* Reach out to those in need and offer vegetarian food preparation without onion/garlic.
* Break your fast only after donating food/essentials to the less privileged. 
* Break the vrat during the time mentioned above.
* Complete the Parana rituals by consuming only Sattvic foods (vegetarian preparations sans garlic, onion or any other strong-flavoured or heat-generating ingredient.)
 

Sankashti Chaturthi is an auspicious festival celebrated in honour of Lord Ganesha. This Hindu festival is observed every month on the "Chaturthi" (Fourth Day) of the Krishna Paksha (the waning phase of the moon).

However, the Sankashti Vrat of Ashadha, Krishna Paksha (as per the Purnimant calendar) and Jyeshtha, Krishna Paksha (per the Amavasyant calendar), is known as Krishnapingala Sankashti Chaturthi.

As per the Hindu belief, Lord Ganesha is worshipped before performing any auspicious task. He is considered to be the first worshiper among other deities.

The word "Sankashti" comes from Sanskrit and implies "freedom from difficult times". And since Lord Ganesha is also hailed as Vighnaharta, he is worshipped on the Chaturthi Tithi. 

This year, Krishnapingala Sankashti Ganesh Chaturthi vrat will be observed on Sunday, June 27.

The Chaturthi tithi begins at 15:54 on June 27, 2021, and ends at 14:16 on June 28, 2021.

Krishnapingala Sankashti Ganesh Chaturthi Vrat Katha
This vrat katha was narrated to Pandava King Yudhishthira by none other than Shri Krishna in the Dwaparyuga. And while telling this katha, the Lord explained how an aged King named Mahijit of Mahishmati was blessed with a child when he had lost all hopes of having offspring.

Here's how the katha unfolds. 

Mahijit was a benevolent king who took good care of his subjects and treated them like family. He served the learned men, the sages and the rishis and punished those who committed crimes. His subjects were happy with his leadership, but they genuinely wished to have a prince for their kingdom. 

The King was equally disheartened about not having a child. Mahijit extended help to those in need and ensured his subjects feel safe and secure. Therefore he wondered why he is deprived of the joy of attaining fatherhood. 

Hence, one day, the people of the kingdom visited the King to let them find a solution to his problem. Subsequently, they headed to a forest, where they came across a sage named Lomash. After listening to their appeal, the wise and the learned sage asked them to tell their King to observe a vrat on the Chaturthi Tithi, Krishna Paksha in the month of Ashadha by following the Vidhi.

With hopes aplenty, the people of Mahishmati communicated Sage Lomash's suggestion to Mahijit. Subsequently, the King observed a vrat on the day of Chaturthi, and a few days later, his wife Sudakshina conceived a child. Thus, by keeping the vrat, the King welcomed his successor.

And as Shri Krishna concluded the story, he asked Yudhishthira to keep a vrat to achieve success in his life.

Krishnapingala Sankashti Ganesh Chaturthi: Rituals
1. On this day devotees keep a partial or day-long fast and eat only fruits, vegetables and root plants throughout the day. Peanuts, potatoes and sabudana khichdi are prepared especially to mark this day's fasting. The day's fasting is broken only after the main puja is done.
2. The main puja of the day is done in the evening after the moon is visible. The idol of Lord Ganesha is worshipped with Durva grass, fresh flowers and incense sticks. Lamps are lit, and devotees read the "vrat katha" specific to the month in shich the Chaturthi is. The rituals for this day end with the sighting of the moon.
3. Special sweets or naivedya, including modaks, are offered to the deity during the puja. After the katha and aarti, these sweets are distributed as prasad.
4. Apart from worshipping Lod Ganesha, the moon is also worshipped on Sankashti Chaturthi. Reciting the Vedic hymns or mantras devoted to Lord Ganesha garners blessings on this day.
5. Devotees chant the Ganesha Ashtothra, Vakrathunda Mahakaya etc, especially on Sankashti Chaturthi.
 

Married Hindu women who hail from North India observe the Vat Savitri Vrat on the Amavasya Tithi of Jyeshtha month. The celebrations concur with Shani Jayanti, a day dedicated to Shani Dev, the embodiment of planet Saturn (Shani). However, the Vat Savitri Vrat is dedicated to Devi Savitri, who made Yama Raj (the God of death) infuse life into her dead husband's body. Therefore, Savitri is honoured as a devout wife who braved and tricked Yama Raj to save her spouse, Satyawan's life. This year, Vat Savitri Vrat will be observed on June 10. And on this day, married women perform a Vat Vriskh (Banyan tree) puja and read the Vrat Katha while sitting under it. Check out this link to know the answers to some of the frequently asked questions about Vat Savitri Vrat, and scroll down for the Vrat Katha.

In North Indian states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab and Haryana, people celebrate Vat Savitri Vrat on Jyestha Amavasya Tithi (New Moon Day in Jyestha month). In contrast, in states like Maharashtra and Gujarat, Vat Savitri Vrat (known as Vat Purnima) is observed on Jyeshtha Purnima Tithi (Full Moon day, Jyestha month). 

Vat Savitri Vrat Puja Vidhi
Since the pandemic caused due to the coronavirus hasn't ended yet, it would be best to perform the puja at home. The puja vidhi may vary from one region to the other, but the main rituals are as follows:

* After taking a bath and making all the puja preparations, get dressed in your best finery and adorn yourself with solah shringar.
* Assemble all the puja items in a bamboo or cane basket.
* It would be best to get a small banyan plant pot so that you can perform the puja at home in the same manner.
* The Banyan tree represents the Hindu trinity - Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh. The tree's roots symbolise Brahma, the creator; the trunk is Vishnu, the protector and the canopy, Mahesh, the destroyer. Therefore, even if you have images or idols of the three deities, you can place them on the altar and perform the puja.
* Then light a lamp with oil or ghee. 
* Offer your salutations to Lord Ganesha before beginning the puja. 
* If you have the Banyan plant in a pot, place the idols of Savitri and Satyawan near it and start offering your prayers. Then, begin the puja by seeking the blessings of Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh.
* Subsequently, offer water to the Banyan plant pot and offer Haldi, Kumkum, Akshat, Roli and Kalava to the pot.
* Follow this step by gently moving the hand fan (pankha) to and fro over the banyan plant pot.  
* Then offer Gandham (chandan), Pushpam (flowers), Deepam (lamp), Dhoop (Incense), Naivedhyam (food and other preparations - in this case, soaked Chana and gud/jaggery, batasha and pooris etc.). 
* After you complete these steps, do the parikrama of the Banyan plant pot while tying the kaccha soot (raw white cotton threat or red kalava) around its stem seven times. The number of parikrama too may vary from region to region.
* Subsequently, offer paan, supari, coconut, fruits and dakshina. 
* In the end, sit near the Banyan plant and read the vrat katha. 
* Conclude the puja by doing namaskar or bowing before the deities.

Chaitra Navratri marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year as per the Lunar Calendar. The festivities begin on the Pratipada Tithi (first day), Chaitra, Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the Moon) and conclude with Rama Navami on the Navami Tithi (ninth day).

The Navami Tithi, Chaitra, Shukla Paksha marks the birth anniversary of Shri Rama. He was born into the Suryavanshi Ikshavaku Dynasty family and was hailed as Raja Ram by the people of Ayodhya. Furthermore, he was the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishu. Interestingly, Chaitra Navratri, dedicated to Mother Goddess Durga, which begins on the first day (Pratipada Tithi) of the Hindu New year as per the Lunar calendar, culminates with Rama Navami. 

This year, Rama Navami will be celebrated on April 21.

The Navami Tithi starts at 12:43 AM on April 21 and ends at 12:35 AM on April 22.

Rama Navami puja should be performed during the Madhyana (afternoon). The Shubh Muhurat is between 11:02 AM to 1:38 PM.

The Nine forms of Durga
Devotees worship Shailputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skanda Mata, Katyayani, Kalaratri, Mahagauri and Siddhidatri during the nine days of Navratri. 

On Ashtami Tithi during Navratri, devotees worship the Maha Gauri form of Durga. This day is also referred to as Maha Ashtami. On this day, some devotees even perform Sandhi Puja. The Chamunda form of Maa Durga came into being when Ashtami Tithi ended, and Navami began to kill demons, Chanda and Munda. Therefore, the time that marks the confluence of these tithis is significant.

And on the Navami Tithi, the Siddhidatri form of Durga is worshipped. Interestingly, Navami celebrations concur with Rama Navami, a day that marks the birth anniversary of Shri Rama.

Rama Navami Significance
Rama Navami is one of the most significant dates in the Hindu calendar. As stated above, the day commemorates the birth anniversary of Shri Rama, who was born to King Dasharatha and his first Queen Kaushalya in the Treta Yuga. 

Eldest of the four siblings, Rama was loved and respected by his younger brothers Bharata, Lakshmana and Shatrughan, and the people of Ayodhya. He established a kingdom where everyone felt happy and content. Hence, Ram Rajya (or Shri Rama's governance style) is often used as a metaphor to describe an ideal state.

The story of Lord Rama as told in the great epic Ramayana is one that most Indians know irrespective of caste, creed and religion. Lord Rama is a legendary figure, the epitome of all that is good and true, the man who vanquished the demon king Ravana. Lord Rama is not just a hero, but has been given the status of a god by the Hindus. 

Therefore, Shri Rama's devotees observe a fast on Rama Navami from sunrise to sunrise. And those who live in Ayodhya take a dip in the holy waters of the Sarayu river before paying their Raja Ram.

On Rama Navami, devotees worship Shri Rama's baby form. Hence, they gently rock a cradle with Ram Lalla's idol resting on it. Besides performing a puja, devotees also read the Rama Katha to retell their beloved Ram Lalla's glorious life.
 

Janaki Jayanti, the festival marking the birth of Goddess Sita, is observed with great fervour and enthusiasm by her devotees. Sita is also known as Janaki as her father was King Janak of Mithila.

The birth of Lord Ram’s wife is of great significance and the date falls on the Ashtami Tithi (eighth day) of Phalguna in Krishna Paksha according to the Purnimant calendar.

If one follows the Amavasyant calendar, Janaki Jayanti falls on the Ashtami Tithi of Magha in Krishna Paksha.  On this auspicious day, married women observe a fast for the long lives and well-being of their husbands.

Janaki Jayanti is also known as Sita Ashtami.

On this day, devotees worship Lord Rama, Goddess Sita, and Lakshman. Huge celebrations and various rituals are held at various temples of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita, like Maha Aarti, Maha Abhishekam, and Sringaar Darshan are held. Apart from it, Bhajans, kirtans and recitals of Ramayan are held at several places

Goddess Sita is revered as the epitome of purity, sacrifice, dedication, courage, and patience. It is believed that women who observe the fast on Sita Navami are bestowed with the divine blessings of the Goddess and a blissful married life. Janaki Jayanti is mostly celebrated in Gujarat, Uttarakhand, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu.

Janaki Jayanti: Tithi
This year, Janaki Jayanti will be celebrated on 6 March. The tithi for the day has started at 7.54 pm on 5 March and is going to end at 6.10 pm on Saturday.

Janaki Jayanti: significance
Goddess Sita is one of the most highly regarded goddesses in the Hindu religion. She is the daughter of Bhumi or the earth goddess and was found in the land by King Janak. Thereafter, Janak ended up adopting her as his eldest daughter along with his wife Queen Sunayana.

The royal couple brought Sita up and organised her swayamvar where she got married to Lord Ram. Sita was given the liberty to choose her groom on the basis of an act of courage and valour.

Sita is also the mother of twin brothers Lav and Kush, whom she brought up alone in an ashram as she was exiled from Ayodhya. However, years later, when Ram came to know about the presence of his sons, he called Sita and the twins back to the kingdom.

But the common people wanted Sita to again walk through the fire to prove her fidelity. Sita refused to take part in such ordeals and called upon her birth mother. The whole kingdom watched in sorrow and repentance as the earth divided in two and Bhumi emerged to take her daughter with her.

It was only after she left that the people realised their mistake in asking her to prove her chastity again and again.
 

Lord Shiva is one of the towering deities of the Hindu trinity. He is hailed as the "destroyer" while Brahma is the "creator" and Vishnu is the "protector". Nonetheless, the "destruction" referred to here is not the dogmatic destruction of creation but the intrinsic negative human traits, imperfections and illusions. And this "destruction" paves the way for creation all over again. Therefore, Lord Shiva could be best described as a "constructive destroyer." 

This Hindu deity, in a human form, is seen sitting in a meditative posture. It is Lord Shiva who is also worshipped in the form of a Linga. It is said that the Linga form of Lord Shiva came into being on the Chaturdashi Tithi, Krishna Paksha in Phalguna month (as per the Purnimant calendar).

This auspicious day is also believed to be when Lord Shiva (Purusha) united with Parvati (Shakti). Therefore, the day, popular as Maha Shivratri, commemorates the Lord and his consort's marriage. Hailed as Bholenath, Mahadev, Shankar and various other names, Lord Shiva has incarnated several times to serve multiple purposes. Ahead of Maha Shivratri this year, learn more about the avatars of Lord Shiva.

The nineteen avatars of Lord Shiva

Piplaad Avatar 
This avatar of Lord Shiva was born to Sage Dadhichi and his wife, Swarcha. However, he lost his parent's son after his birth. He was raised by his aunt Dadhimati. As he grew up and learnt about the cause of his father's death, Piplaad cursed Shani Dev (Saturn). He wanted to avenge Shani Dev for causing troubling his father during his lifetime. As a result, Shani Dev fell from the galaxy. However, after the Devas intervened, Piplaad agreed to forgive Shani by saying that none below sixteen would get affected by his adverse effects. Therefore, those who have Shani Dosha worship Lord Shiva.

Nandi Avatar
This form of Lord Shiva was born to Sage Shilada. The sage performed intense penance to seek Lord Shiva's blessings and asked for a child who would remain immortal. Therefore, pleased by Sage's devotion, Lord Shiva took birth as Nandi, who then became the gate-keeper of Kailasha (Lord Shiva's heavenly abode) and the mount of the Lord.

Veerabhadra Avatar
The Veerabhadra avatar of Lord Shiva is one of his fiercest forms. Lord Shiva incarnated as Veerabhadra after his wife Sati's death. The Veerabhadra form of Lord Shiva destroyed King Daksha's Yagya and beheaded him for being responsible for Sati's death.

Bhairava Avatar
The Bhairava Avatar also is one of the fiercest avatars of Lord Shiva. Referred to as Dandapani, the Bhairava Avatar punishes those who are greedy, lustful and arrogant. These negative traits often lead to one's downfall, and hence the purpose of the Bhairava avatar.

Ashwatthama Avatar 
Guru Dronacharya had performed intense penance to please Lord Shiva. He wanted the Lord to be born as his son. Therefore, pleased by Guru Dronacharya's devotion, Lord Shiva took birth as Ashwatthama, an able warrior who played a pivotal role in the Mahabharata.

Sharabha avatar 
This form of Lord Shiva appeared to calm Lord Narasimha after the latter killed demon Hiranyakashipu. The Sharabha avatar is one of its kind. The Lord appeared as a being that partly looked like a lion and bird. In some texts, the Sharabha avatar is said to have eight legs.

Grihapati avatar
The Grihapati avatar of Lord Shiva was born to a sage named Vishwanar and his wife, who lived on the Narmada banks. The sage's consort wanted Lord Shiva to be born as her son. Therefore, the sage performed intense penance in Kashi. A few days later, pleased by Vishwanar's devotion, Lord Shiva was born as Grihapati to the sage and his wife.

Durvasa avatar
This avatar of Lord Shiva was born to Sage Atri and his wife, Anasuya. He was known for being short-tempered and commanded respect both from the humans as well as the Devas.

Rishabha Avatar
As per a legend associated with this avatar, Lord Shiva appeared as a bull to kill the sons born to Lord Vishnu and the Patala Loka women. Lord Vishnu's sons caused destruction, and hence at Lord Brahma's behest, Lord Shiva appeared as Rishabha to save creation.

Yatinath Avatar 
The Yatinath avatar of Lord Shiva appeared to test a tribal couple, who were known for their hospitality. The tribal man named Aahuk lost his life while safeguarding his guest, Yatinath. Instead of mourning, his wife took pride in him for giving away his life for the sake of a guest. Pleased by the couple's devotion, Lord Shiva blessed them by saying that they would be born as Nala and Damayanti in their next birth.

Hanuman
Lord Hanuman is said to be the eleventh avatar of Lord Shiva. He was born to Mata Anjani and Kesari. 

Krishna Darshan Avatar 
This avatar of Lord Shiva appeared to emphasise the importance of Yagya and the importance of remaining detached. This legend is associated with a king named Nabhag, his father Shradhadeva and Sage Angiras.

Bhikshuvarya Avatar 
As the name suggests, Lord Shiva appeared as a beggar to save the child of a King named Sathyaratha. Since the child had lost his parents, he was brought up by a poor woman with Lord Shiva's blessings.

Sureshwar Avatar 
This avatar of Lord Shiva appeared in Indra Dev's disguise to test the devotion of a young boy named Upamanyu. The young boy passed the litmus test and succeeded in making Lord Shiva reveal himself.

Keerat Avatar
This avatar of Lord Shiva appeared to test the bravery of Arjuna. When the Pandavas were in exile, Arjuna meditated to seek Lord Shiva's Pashupat. As he was meditating, a demon named Mooka transformed into a boar to kill Arjuna. Lord Shiva's Keerat Avatar and Arjuna both killed the boar with their respective arrows. Initially, Arjun couldn't recognise Lord Shiva, but eventually, he realised that only the Lord could be a better archer than him. 

Sunatnartak avatar 
The Sunatnartak avatar of Lord Shiva appeared in the Himalayan King's court and danced with his damru. In the end, he put forward a marriage proposal and expressed his desire to marry Parvati.

Brahmachari avatar
When Sati took birth as Parvati and performed intense penance to please Lord Shiva, the latter appeared before her as a Brahmachari. He hurled abuses at Shiva to test Parvati's devotion. And Parvati, who loved Lord Shiva more than anyone else, gave a fitting reply to the Brahmachari. Eventually, Lord Shiva revealed himself and blessed Parvati.

Yaksheshwar Avatar 
The Yaksheshwar avatar of Lord Shiva appeared to crush the pride/complacency of the Devas after they consumed Amrit, the divine nectar. He asked them to cut a blade of grass, and they failed to destroy it even with their combined powers. Subsequently, the apologised to Lord Shiva.

Avadhut Avatar
Lord Shiva appeared as Avadhoot to crush the ego of Indra Dev.
 

BHOPAL [Maha Media]: On the auspicious occasion of Devutthani Ekadashi or Prabodhini Ekadashi, Brahmachari Girish Ji, the head of “Maharishi Group of Educational Institutions” has performed Pujan of Bhagwan Vishnu and Tulsi Devi with Maharishi Vedic Pundits and Vedic Vidhan at Maharishi Utsav Bhawan, Gurudev Brahmanand Saraswati Ashram, Bhopal. 

On the occasion, Brahmachari Ji said that “it is a very auspicious day, when all Devatas are entering the full swing of activity again. Let’s pray and hope that all positive trends will rise in India and through India all over the world starting from today. We must follow the Laws of Nature and Nature will definitely bless us”.
 

The celebration of holy Bhagavad Gita birthday is revered as Gita Jayanti. The auspicious day is marked on the Shukla Ekadashi falling on the 11th day of the waxing moon, also known as Margashirsha month as per Hindu calendar. 

During the Mahabharat war in the Kurukshetra battlefield, Lord Krishna recited Bhagavad Gita to Arjuna. And Sanjaya, who had Ved Vyasa's blessings to see what ensued anywhere narrated the entire happening to Dhritarashtra. Therefore, Gita Jayanti is believed to be the day when Lord Krishna recited Gita before Arjuna. Annually, the dates vary depending upon Hindu calendar. This year, Gita Jayanti is being celebrated on December 25, coinciding with Christmas, Vaikuntha Ekadashi or Mokshada Ekadashi and Tulsi Pujan Diwas respectively. 

On this day, devotees keep a day-long fast and observe the Vaikuntha Ekadashi Vrat. It is also referred to as Mokshada or Vaikuntha Ekadashi. It is said that the doors to Vaikuntha (Lord Vishnu's heavenly abode) remain open on this day. Therefore, those seeking salvation succeed in achieving their ultimate goal. It is also the day, when Shrimad Bhagavad Gita, the holy book of the Hindus, came into being. On this Ekadashi Tithi, devotees celebrate Gita Jayanti, i.e., the birth anniversary of the holy Shrimad Bhagavad Gita. Gita Jayanthi is the day when Lord Sri Krishna told the gita to Arjuna. 

The Ekadashi Tithi begins at 11:17 PM on December 24 and ends at 1:54 AM on December 26.

Significance

The Gita contains 700 verses and is a part of the great Indian Epic Mahabharata's Bhishma Parva. This year, devotees will observe the 5157th anniversary of the Gita.

The Gita teaches the fundamental values, realities and duties of life. The sacred text has questions put forth by Arjuna and the corresponding answers given by none other than Shri Krishna. Arjuna, the brave Pandava warrior, couldn't initially muster the courage to face his enemies on the battlefield, as they were people who had raised him as well as those whom he grew up with. Nonetheless, to restore Dharma (goodness) and bring an end to their wrongdoings, he had to lift his weapon. And he succeeded in defeating his emotions after learning what his Dharma (duty) is. As a result, Arjuna lifted his weapon and eliminated Bhishma Pitamah (the only warrior who could have defeated the Pandavas), on the battlefield.
 

Mokshada Ekadashi 
During a year, devotees of Lord Vishnu observe twenty-four Ekadashi vrats. Each of the Ekadashi tithis has a specific name and significance. However, the Ekadashi, Shukla Paksha of the Margashirsha month is believed to be the most important one, and it is referred to as Mokshada Ekadashi. Mokshada is derived from the word Moksha, meaning liberation or salvation. This Ekadashi is also known as Vaikuntha Ekadashi.

It is named after Lord Vishnu's heavenly abode, Vaikuntha. It is said that the doors of Vaikuntha remain open on this day. Therefore, those seeking salvation and riddance from all their sins, succeed in attaining the Lord's blessings. Many devotees begin the vrat from the evening of the Dashami Tithi. And on the Ekadashi Tithi, they perform puja of Lord Vishnu, recite the Vishnu Sahasranam, and keep chanting his name. One of the important aspects of the puja is the Vrat Katha. It is important to know the legend associated with the specific Ekadashi day. 

Mokshada Ekadashi Vrat Katha
As per one of the legends associated with Mokshada Ekadashi or Vaikuntha Ekadashi, there lived a benevolent king, who was humble, generous, and loved by his subjects. He was pleased with everything he was blessed with. However, one day, he had a nightmare. He saw his late father suffering in hell. Disturbed by his dream's ugly visuals, the King sought help from the learned Brahmins in his kingdom.

After learning about the King's dream, the Brahmins suggested that he must consult Parvat Muni (a learned sage), who alone could decode the message sent through the dream.
 

The Sun moves from one Rashi to the other once every month. And the day that marks its transit is referred to as Sankranti in Sanskrit. Sankranti is also known and spelt as Sankraman or Sankranthi or Sankramanam.

Today, the Sun is expected to pass from the Vrishchik Rashi (Scorpio) to Dhanu Rashi (Sagittarius) tonight. This transit marks the beginning of a new month as per the Hindu Solar calendar. The Dhanu month stands ninth in the list of twelve months. 

On this auspicious day, Lord Jagannath is worshipped in many parts of India, especially in Orissa. Devotees start the festival of Dhanu Yatra from the sixth day of Pusha month in Shukla Paksha and continue it until Purnima of the Pousha month. As per Panchang, the duration is of Pausha month and this is known as Kharmas.

According to tradition, a special prasad is prepared on this day, which includes sweetened rice flakes in a conical shape to offer God during the puja ceremony. It is also said that people should offer a donation (daanya punnya) and perform ancestral pujas.

On this day the devotees take a dip in the holy rivers and it is said that the person who takes a dip gets rid of the sins committed by him or her. They also worship Sun God and it is considered extremely beneficial as he showers them with his choicest blessings. People also take part in philanthropic activities. They distribute food, clothes, and other items to the needy. Some devotees even observe a fast.

Sun worship is also done for acquiring wisdom and sagacious within. Sun enters a particular amount, for this reason, it is known as ‘Sankranti’.

Dhanu Sankranti Punya Kaal
The Dhanu Sankranti Punya Kaal starts at 12:21 PM to 5:43 PM.

Dhanu Sankranti Maha Punya Kaal 
The Dhanu Sankranti Maha Punya Kaal is between 3:56 PM to 5:43 PM.

Dhanu Sankranti Moment
The Sun is expected to enter Dhani Rashi at around 9:48 PM.

Dhanu Sankranti significance
As mentioned above, the Dhanu Sankranti marks the beginning of the ninth Hindu month according to the Solar calendar. Moreover, it is of great significance for Odisha people. On this day, they worship the Sun God as well as Lord Jagannath. Special pujas are performed to pay obeisance to Lord Jagannath, and sweets/delicacies are offered as bhog to the deities.

On the sixth day of the Pausha month, an annual event titled Dhanu Yatra begins in the Baragarh town located on the banks of river Jira (a tributary of the Godavari river) in Odisha where iconic episodes from the life of Shri Krishna are recreated. During the event, the town gets converted into Mathura (Krishna Janmabhoomi or the birthplace of Shri Krishna), the river Jira is hailed as the Yamuna, and neighbouring villages become Gokul and Vrindavan (places where the Lord spent his early days). As per the traditional calendar, the annual festival begins on the sixth day (Sashti Tithi) of Pousha, Shukla Paksha and ends on the Purnima Tithi (Full Moon day) of the same month. Several iconic stories from the Bhagavata Purana are narrated in the form of street plays during the festival. 

What is the Meaning of Kharmas?
The Sanskrit word Khar means donkey (Gadha). As per the prevailing legend pertaining to Kharmas, it is said that Surya Dev revolves around the universe on the chariot of seven horses. He is not allowed to stop anywhere. It is said that if he stops, then all day to day activities will be halted on the same day. 

But the horses attached to the chariot get sick and tired of hunger due to lack of rest and love. Seeing this, Surya Dev takes his chariot to the banks of the pond. All of a sudden,  he comes to know that if he stops his chariot then all the activities will stop and troubles will take place.

Then Surya Dev sees two donkeys (Khars) at the river of the pond. He leaves all the horses for consuming water and taking rest and attaches the two donkeys with his chariot.

The horse runs fast while the donkey slows down the chariot. In this pretext, the rotation of one month gets completed somehow and the horses take rest meantime and this time is known as Kharmas. Every solar year is known as solar Kharmas.
 

Lakshmi Puja on Purnima Tithi in month of Ashwin is known as Kojagara Puja and more commonly known as Bengal Lakshmi Puja. Kojagara Puja Purnima is more famously known as Sharad Purnima in most parts of India. This year Kojagari Lakshmi Puja will be celebrated on 30 October. The Purnima Tithi begins at 5.45 pm on 30 October and ends at 8.18 pm on 31 October.

Kojagari Lakshmi Puja is one of the most significant festivals celebrated in the eastern part of India, across West Bengal, Assam, and Orissa.

On the day of Sharad Purnima, devotees worship Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Shiva, with unmarried girls observing a fast in various parts of the country to please Lord Vishnu and get a suitable groom.

It is believed that on the day of Kojagari Lakshmi Puja, Goddess Lakshmi takes around on the Earth's orbit and relieves her devotees from their woes. Those who remain to awaken on the night of Sharad Purnima are blessed with health and wealth.

Like Dussehra, Sharad Purnima or Full-moon festival is observed in different ways, in different parts of India. It falls on the fifth day following Dussehra. Goddess Lakshmi presides over the festivity in some parts of the country, while Lord Krishna is worshipped in some other parts. Lakshmi is the goddess of wealth and prosperity, and Krishna symbolizes eternal love. According to their traditional culture and beliefs, the regional communities of India celebrate Sharad Purnima in different ways, unique to their identity.

In India, the state of Odisha or Orissa celebrates Sharad Purnima in two different ways. Some communities worship the Sun and the Moon on this occasion, while Goddess Lakshmi is worshiped on this pious day in some other communities. In Odisha, Sharad Purnima is also known as Kumar Purnima in honor of Kartikeya, the God of war in the Hindu mythology of India. Kartikeya, son of Lord Shiva, is the handsomest god who is worshipped by young girls in hope of getting handsome husbands.

After a holy bath in the morning, the girls cook several various food items to offer to the Sun God and adorn their necks with fresh garlands during worship. They keep fasting for the day. They break the day-long fast once the worship of the moon in the evening is over. They sing, dance and play a special game, Puchi, to rejoice in the festivity. The people of Odisha also observe Sharad Purnima as the birthday of Lakshmi. They play dice and some other indoor games to keep awake the whole night.

In north India, Sharad Purnima is popularly known as Raas Purnima. In the Hindu Mythology, there is a story of Raas Purnima from the life of Lord Krishna. According to the story, it is believed that during his human incarnation on earth, Lord Krishna used to play raas (a traditional folk dance) with Gopis, his female admirers in Vrindavan. It was the night of Sharad Purnima when he played maha raas with his beloved Radha and Gopis on the bank of Yamuna River. In different parts of north India, young boys and girls enact Raas Leela on the festive evening.

Legend

According to Hinduism, it’s believed that Lord Krishna began his Raas Leela with Radha and the gopis on the night of Sharad Purnima. There are many other legends related to this day as well.

According to a legend, once a king fell in bad days, and was in great financial difficulties, but his queen observed this eve and that evening, and worshiped the goddess of wealth, Laxmi. Therefore, they were blessed by the goddess and regained their prosperity. In the cult of the night he offered the goddess lakshmi as well as Lord Indra.

It is also believed that on that day, as the moon and the earth are very close to each other, the lunar rays have certain healing properties to nourish the body and the soul.

Celebration:
Some people believe that tonight, Laxmi will visit people and show her pleasure among those she finds awake. Therefore, the night is devoted to the festival and several fun games, in honor of the goddess. So people are sit in the moonlight by singing songs, or remain amused in another way. They rapidly pull solid food and consume only liquids such as coconut water or milk. The milk is boiled until thickened, and the milk masala (called kheer, a combination of ready-to-use dry fruits) is added and drunk. There is also a tradition of having fresh milk and rice flakes tonight.

“Ya devi sarva bhuteshu, shanti rupena sangsthita | Namastasyai, Namastasyai, Namastasyai, Namo Namaha’

We extend our sincere gratefulness, our pranam to Shakti rupani Devi who is omnipresent in all the living beings and other non living things, either clearly manifesting or staying in invisible state.

We often refer to the deity Durga jis pooza as “SHAKTI POOZA”.

Lord Rama also worshiped Shakti to conquer over the Ravana the symbol of “Adharma”.Thus lord dharma established “Dharma” over Adharma created by Ravana.

As per vedas “SHAKTI” remains ever new although exists from ancient period, yet manifests always as un manifested yet is manifested appropriately and appears as new.

Shakti always appears from disappeared to the manifested and from manifests to disappearance.

This is difficult to even realize how many times the manifested and un manifested state recurs, however every time a divine realization feels the heart.”Shakti “ has been similarly  mesmerizing from time immemorial.

The series continues since ancient time and appears in different forms, who knows how many countries got converted in hills, how many got crushed in pieces, how many countries got embedded in the river or sea and oceans over the period of the time. Who will decide it? This is a popular saying that after every hundred years its forest and after every hundred years it remains populated. From time to time Shakti has been prominently appearing in the form of great monks and Maharishis who have been enriching the world with their divine power that they could acquire after years of sacrifices and thorough studies.

The deity from her ved mukha says

Maya So Anna Matti Yo Vipasya Ti Yah Prani Ti Ya I m Srnotyuktam |
Amantavomanta Upa Ksiyanti Srudhi Srutam Shraddhivam The Vadami ||

Aham Rudraya Dhanurata Nomi Brahmadvise Sara Ve Hanta Va U |
Aham Jana Ya Samada m Krnomyaham Dyava Prthivi Avi Vesa ||

The people of his world are alive  because of my blessings,all the food and the expressions by words are my blessings to mankind those who show negligence for me meet their unfortunate.Since you are a religious person therefore these things are told to you. For the end of the demons by using the BRAMHA SHAKTI I remained there in the powerful arms of RUDRA in the form of SHAKTI.in order to ensure the welfare of the people in general you will find me established in the sky and the earth.The one who has understood and realized the ultimate divine power of SHAKTI that states that the SHAKTI POOZA could only be performed from time immemorial only under the divine direction and will of SHAKTI.

Those who could not enjoy the blessings of Shakti could never perform pooza and remained aloof with the great power of SHAKTI.

SHAKTI always appears in different forms for the good of mankind.

The proper coordination and understanding is imperative between the SHAKTI and its worship.Kansa and ravna are the brilliant examples of those who could not manage the balance between their Shakti and Bhakti.

Thus our endeavor must always be to ensure the equilibrium between the Bhakti and Shakti [Worship and Shakti] yet the question is that when people like kansa and Ravana could not establish this balance then how could it be easy for the common man.

The answer to this is the regular practice of transcendental Meditation promoted to the world by HIS HOLINESS MAHARISHI MAHESH YOGI JI.

Simply 15 to 20 minutes daily in the morning and evening before the work starts and after the work is over shall help you address this serious issue of balance between the BHAKTI AND SHAKTI. You may yourself experience the same by regular practice.

Jai Guru Dev,Jai Maharishi.

Bramachari  Girish Ji

The nine-day festival of Navratri is a few weeks away. With the arrival of the Mother Goddess, the auspicious Devi Paksha begins. And this year, owing to the Adhik Maas, the Shardiya Navratri has delayed by about a month. Usually, it takes place soon after Mahalaya Amavasya, but in 2020, it has been pushed by 31 days. Nonetheless, the festival shall usher in an atmosphere of divinity and serenity like always. And devotees of Goddess Durga shall look forward to it not only to keep a fast but also soak in the joys of the meaningful festival. One of the most significant aspects of the festivities is that different colours are associated with each of the nine days. People get dressed in the colour specific to each day to make the most of Navratri. 

Navratri 2020 colours with the significance of the dates

Kanya Sankranti, also known as Sankramanam (in Tamil), is an important day in the Hindu Solar calendar. It is the day that marks the transit of the Sun from one zodiac to the other. Today, the Sun shall move from Simha Rashi (Leo) to Kanya Rashi (Virgo). And hence the name Kanya Sankranti. This movement of the Sun marks the beginning of the sixth Hindu month as per the Hindu Solar calendar. It is also the day when people pay ode to Lord Vishwakarma, who is hailed as the one who created the Universe. He is also regarded as the carpenter or the architect of the Gods. 

On Kanya Sankranti many kinds of daan, shradh puja for the ancestors and penance rituals take place.

There are twelve Sankrantis every year and each is a highly auspicious occasion for spiritual activities and charity. Kanya Sankranti is believed to be a significant time to perform the rites of Shraddha and penance.

It is also considered highly auspicious to take bath in holy rivers during this divine festival. "The word “Sankranti” in Sanskrit means “Sankramana Kala” or a “turning point”.

Kanya sankranthi time
The auspicious time or punya kala will begin from 12:16 pm and will last till 06:25 pm. It will last for 6 hours 9 mins. And the Maha Punya Kala will start from 04:22 pm and end at 06:25 pm. It will last for 2 hours and 3 mins. Whereas the Kanya Sankranti moment is at 7:23 pm.

Though, some time before or after Sankranti moment is considered to be auspicious for performing Sankranti related activities.

For Kanya Sankranti sixteen Ghatis after the Sankranti moment are considered Shubh or auspicious and the time window from Sankranti to sixteen Ghati after Sankranti is taken for all Dan-Punya activities.

Significance of Kanya Sankranti
On this day, idol of Lord Vishwakarma is worshipped and cleaned. This day is significantly celebrated in all kinds of industries, school, shops, etc. Small and big businessmen conduct Vishwakarma puja at their office place.

People clean their business equipment on this day. They also worship the machinery they use in their work and offer flowers on Vishwakarma puja day. They pray for smooth working of their machines and prosperity in work.

Today, people shall perform the Chaturdashi Shradh to calm and please the souls of those who had an unnatural death.

The Kanya Sankranti is also the day when technicians, carpenters, architects, engineers, sculptors etc. worship Lord Vishwakarma to seek his blessings for a prosperous professional life. In states such as West Bengal, Odisha, Assam, Tripura, Bihar, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh and some parts of Karnataka, devotees perform the Vishwakarma Puja at their workshops/factories/industrial belts etc.

On this day, people do not use their tools and equipment as they are worshipped along with the deity. Factories and workshops remain closed, and the bhog offered to Lord Vishwakarma is distributed as Prasad.

It is also an important day for carrying out philanthropic activities. People are encouraged to reach out to those who need help (either in kind or cash). In short, it is considered an ideal day for Daan-Punya.

Next Sankranti, Tula Sankranti will be on 17 October (Saturday). 
 

Vamana Jayanti is celebrated as the birth anniversary of the Vamana Avatar of Lord Vishnu. It is observed on the Dwadashi Tithi of Bhadrapada Shukla Paksha. As per the Bhagwat Purana, Vamana was the fifth Avatar out of Dashavatara of Lord Vishnu and His first incarnation in the Treta Yuga. After the first four Avatars in the animal form, namely, Matsya (fish), Kurma (tortoise), Varaha (boar) and Narasimha (lion), Vamana was the first Avatar of Lord Vishnu in the human form. Vamana was born in Treta Yuga to Goddess Aditi and Rishi Kashyapa on the Dwadashi Tithi of Bhadrapada Shukla Paksha during Abhijit Muhurat when the Shravana Nakshatra was prevailing.
Vamana Jayanti is also known as Vamana Dwadashi. As per the Hindu Scriptures, if a person worships Lord Vamana, the individual gets free from all kind of sufferings and sins and achieves salvation.

Vamana Avatar Legends
As per the legends, Asuras or Daityas lost the battle against Devas. Bali, the king of Asuras became unconscious from the attack of Indra Dev and was on the death bed. At that point of time Shukracharya gave his life saving herb (Sanjeevani) to all the Asuras who were unconscious and attacked and helped them to regain their life and strength.  After that, King Bali performed an austerity and became powerful than Devas. He achieved divine chariot, trident and armor for his protection through his austerities and went back to battle with Devas in the heaven.

Indra Deva got to know about the intentions of King Bali and that he will be able to conquer heaven in this battle once he completes his 100 yagnas,  Indra Deva went to Lord Vishnu and asked for his help. Inorder to protect Devas from the wrath of Asuras, Lord Vishnu incarnates into Lord Vamana and takes birth from the womb of Aditi, wife of Saint Kashyap. Thereafter, Saint Kashyap asked his wife Aditi to observe Payo Fast  to get blessed by a son. Consequently, on the Shukla Paksha of Bhadrapad month Aditi gave birth to a son who was named Vamana. He adopts the form of Brahmachari.Vamana was offered different things by each saint and goddesses, such as from Saint Pulaha, deerskin from Agastya, butea rod from Marichi, clothes from Angiras, umbrella from Sun, from Bhrigu, Sacred thread and Kamandal from Guru Deva, loincloth from Aditi, Rudraksha from Saraswati and begging tray from Kuber.  

Soon after Vamana grew up, he went to see King Bali on the day of his 100th Ashwamedh Yagna. Vamana asked 3 steps of land as Bhiksha from Bali, to which Bali, being a great devotee of Lord Vishnu readily agreed. Vamana immediately transformed into a gigantic form and measured the whole earth in one stride. In the second stride, He measured the heaven. When Vamana Dev was about to take the third step, Bali realized that the dwarf monk was no other than Lord Vishnu Himself and for the third stride, offered his head. Thus, Bali proved that he was indeed a true devotee of Vishnu. To honor the benevolence of His devotee, instead of killing Bali, Lord Vishnu pushed him to the Patala Loka or netherworld. Lord Vishnu also granted a boon to Bali, which allowed him to visit his subjects on Earth once a year. The annual homecoming of king Bali is celebrated in Kerala on Onam and in rest of the country on Bali Pratipada.

Why is Onam celebrated?
Though Bali was sent to the Patala Loka, he was given a boon that granted him a chance to visit his people once during the year. Therefore, it is believed that King Bali visits his kingdom to see if his subjects are happy and content. Hence, people decorate their homes with Pookolam and take part in group activities such as Vallam Kali, Puli Kali, Kai Kottu Kali and prepare the Onam Sadhya. The celebrations of Onam start on Atham day (the day when Atham Nakshatra prevails) and continue for 10 days till Thiruvonam day. 

Vamana Jayanti Puja Vidhi
On the day of Vamana Jayanti, Lord Vishnu is worshipped in his Vamana Avatar. On this day, Panchopachara or Shodashopachara Puja of golden or clay idol of Vamana is performed in the morning. Fast is also observed on Vamana Jayanti. After performing the Puja in the evening, Vamana Jayanti Vrat Katha is narrated and the fast is broken with Prasad. Donation of rice, curd and Mishri is also given on this day. The significance of Vamana Jayanti increases multiple times if it coincides with the Shravana Nakshatra.

What are the Rituals of Vamana Jayanti?
* On the sacred day of Vamana Jayanti, the most ideal way to initiate the rituals is by donating curd, rice, and food to the Brahmins as it is regarded as highly auspicious on the day of Vamana Jayanti.
* To please Lord Vishnu, devotees also observe a fast for the day as well as perform the puja and other rituals.
* Vishnu Sahasranama and various other mantras are recited.
* While reciting the name of Lord Vishnu for 108 times, devotees offer incense sticks, lamps, and flowers to the deity.
* The devotees listen to the Vamana Katha in the evening and then after offering prayers and bhog to the deity, they distribute the prasad to the devotees.

Vamana Jayeanti's time

Dwadashi Tithi Begins - 08:17 AM on Aug 29
Dwadashi Tithi Ends - 08:21 AM on Aug 30

On the fourth day of Bhadrapad month's Shukla paksha when Ganapati festival begins, Maharashtrian households also begin to gear up for the eighth day of this lunar calendar month on which day Mahalakshmi or Goddess Gauri is worshipped. This is a very big Maharashtrian festival and is observed today 25th August this year.

Gauri (also called Mahalakshmi in some households) Is a form or avatar of Parvati, the Shakti Roopa or version of Shiva, and also the mother of Ganapati Bappa.

The festival is also called Gauri Avahaan or "beckoning Devi Gauri" as a loose translation of the same. 

Each household has its own different manner of worshipping Mahalakshmi or Gauri, handed over by tradition through generations. 

The Legends behind Gauri Pujan:
The Gauri Ganpati legends differ from place to place. As per some beliefs, Gauri is considered to be the sister of Lord Ganesha while according to popular legends, Maa Gauri is an avatar of Devi Parvati – the mother of Lord Ganesha. Some also refer to the festival as Mahalaxmi Puja and pray to Goddess Laxmi, consort of Lord Vishnu on this day. 

It is told that in ancient times when the asuras (loosely translated as demons) would harass humans, married women approached Devi Gauri - the wife of Lord Shiva - to help protect their Saubhagya or the life of their respective husbands.

That day was a Bhadrapad month Shudha (Shukla - waning fortnight) Paksha Ashtami. 

The arrival of Gauri is assumed to take place when the Anuradha Nakshatra (constellation) comes into force in Bhadrapad month. On 25 August 2020, the Anuradha Nakshatra comes into play at 13: 58 hrs in the afternoon.

The Saptami (7th day) ends at 14:31 hrs on 25 August and Ashtami begins. This is the Muhurat of Gauri Avahaan.

Gauri Mukhwatas or moortis are handed down through the generations in the family but for those who wish to begin observing this festival for the first time, the same is available in the market. Usually, they arrive in pairs (Two women - Goddess's faces). 

A lot of orchestra-like sounds is created with spoons and small vessels to welcome the arrival of Mahalakshmi or Gauri. She is shown around all symbols of prosperity that abound in the house. A prayer is made to the Goddess to help retain prosperity.

Goddess Mahalakshmi's palms (the benevolent, most-giving Goddess) are worshipped too. Without Laksmiji's aashirwaad, nothing can come to fruition, is the belief.

A proper Vedic pooja is laid out. The Gauri Mahalakshmi idols are dressed in sarees and decked up like most married women. Flowers, ornaments, Haldi Kum Kum are offered. 

Home-cooked naivedyam is served. Women generally fast on this day. Delicious, vegetarian sweet prasad or Naivedaya is offered and the family sits in a line to an individual spread of meals each.

Jyeshtha Gauri Puja Muhurat: 01:04 PM to 06:49 PM

Jyeshtha Gauri Avahana on Wednesday
Jyeshtha Gauri Visarjan on Thursday

Jyeshtha Nakshatra Begins – 01:04 PM on Aug 26
Jyeshtha Nakshatra Ends – 12:37 PM on Aug 27
 

Teej is one of the many festivals of India celebrated by women. Teej Vrat is primarily observed by women who hail from the northern parts of the country. And interestingly, Teej is of three types - Haryali Teej, Kajari Teej and Hartalika Teej and they are celebrated on the third day of the Lunar fortnight. Since this festival is celebrated in Shravan month, is it also called as Sawan Teej or Shravani Teej. The name Hariyali Teej signifies greenery during the monsoon month in India.

The monsoon festivals of Teej are primarily dedicated to Goddess Parvati and her union with Lord Shiva.[2] In this festival woman are celebrated.They play, sing, dance and enjoy the womanhood.

Hariyali Teej 2020 date
Hariyali Teej is observed on the Tritiya Tithi, Shukla Paksha in the holy month of Shravan. This year it will be celebrated on July 23.

Dedicated to Lord Shiva and Mata Parvati, Hariyali Teej Vrat is observed by married women, who pray for a blissful married life while unmarried girls wish for a husband of their choice and liking. Women who have been keeping a vrat for years would know all the rituals and dos and don'ts attached to it. But the newly-married women, who are all set to observe the Hariyali Teej Vrat for the first time may not be well versed with it. 

It is also a special occasion for unmarried girls, who wish to marry the man of their choice.

Kajari Teej
Kajari Teej is observed on the third day of the dark lunar fortnight (Krishna Paksha) in the month of Bhadrapada (as per the Purnimant calendar) and Shravan (according to the Amavasyant calendar). Kajari Teej derives its name from a folk tradition that narrates the pain of brief separation of a woman from her husband. The songs describe how a woman feels the sweet pain of love as she visits her maternal house to celebrate Teej. On this day, women worship the Neem tree and the Moon God. Kajari Teej is also called Badi Teej as it concludes the Hariyali Teej (Chhoti Teej) festivities. Kajari Teej is celebrated in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and some parts of Madhya Pradesh. This year, Kajari Teej will be celebrated on August 6.

Kajari Teej 2020 Tithi
Tritiya tithi begins at 10:50 PM on August 05 and ends at 12:14 AM on August 7.

Hartalika Teej 
Hartalika Teej falls on the third day, Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the Moon) in Bhadrapada. It is observed one day before Ganesh Chaturthi.

Hartalika is a combination of two Sanskrit words Harat (kidnap) + Aalika (female friend). It refers to the event that took place before Mata Parvati got married to Lord Shiva. According to a legend associated with this Teej, Mata Parvati's father had chosen Lord Vishnu for her, but since she wanted to get married to Lord Shiva, she sought help from one of her friends. Mata Parvati's friend "abducted" her and took her to a thick forest where she could hide. The word 'abduction' shouldn't be misinterpreted. In this context, it is a gesture of lending help to a friend who wished to marry the man of her choice.

On the day of Hartalika Teej, women prepare clay idols of Lord Shiva and Mata Parvati and worship them for a blissful married life. This ritual is similar to the Hariyali Teej festivities.

Hartalika Teej is celebrated in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Bihar and Jharkhand, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

This year, Hartalika Teej will be observed on August 21.

Hartalika Teej 2020 shubh muhurat
Early morning (Prataha Kaal) Muhurat - 5:54 AM to 8:30 AM

Pradosh Kaal Muhurat - 6:54 PM to 9:06 PM

Hartalika Teej 2020 Tithi
Tritiya tithi begins at 2:13 AM on August 21 and ends at 11:02 PM on August 21.

However, the one common thing about these three Teej is that women worship Lord Shiva and Parvati to seek their blessings for a happy married life. Some unmarried girls also keep a vrat on these days to get a life partner of their choice.
 

Anvadhan and Ishti are two significant days for people who belong to the Vaishnava Sampradaya, or devotees of Shri Vishnu. These two days are observed both on the New Moon Day (Amavasya) and the Full Moon day (Purnima). Therefore, devotees celebrate these auspicious days twice in a month.

Anvadhan in Sanskrit means the ritual of adding fuel to keep the sacred fire burning after performing the Agnihotra (a havan or a homam). On this day, those belonging to the Vaishnava Sampradaya keep a day-long fast.

Ishti is a ritual that devotees perform for a short duration to pray for the fulfilment of their desires. It is like a 'havan' that lasts for a few hours, unlike those that last for an entire day, weeks, months or years. Ishti in colloquial term means desire. The Sanskrit word Ishti, in the broader sense, refers to the act of doing a deed and invoking a deity to obtain something.

Ishti significance
Ishti is one of the significant events according to the Hindu calendar. The event is celebrated by followers of Hinduism, especially by the followers of Vaishnava Sampradaya. The followers celebrate the event by performing Yajna on the day of Ishti. 

There are a lot of confusions regarding Ishti and Anvadhan, which are two different events in the Hindu calendar. People often confuse the two events and believe the two significant days to be one. There are several points of view on observing the events, that is, Ishti and Anvadhan, which creates some doubts amongst the observers. There are two significant events according to the Hindu calendar. One is Ishti and the other is Anvadhan and the two are connected to each other with the rituals that devotees perform. 

Anvadhan is observed before Ishti. On the day of Anvadhan, followers of Hinduism observe a fast all day long. And on the day of Ishti, followers perform Yajna. For this month, Anvadhan event will be observed on the 20nd of April, which is a Saturday. Ishti, the other significant event, will be observed on the 21rd of April, which is on Sunday.

What is Vaishnava Sampradaya?
Vaishnava Sampradaya, popularly known as Vaishnavism is a sect in Hinduism that hails Lord Vishnu as the Supreme Power. Lord Vishnu is one of the deities that form the Hindu Trinity, with the other two Gods being Brahma and Mahesh (Lord Shiva). Brahma is believed to be the creator, Vishnu is the protector and Shiva, the destroyer. But for the Vaishnavites, their world revolves around Vishnu. The various main incarnations or avatars of Lord Vishnu are celebrated as the Dashavataram. He has already appeared in nine different forms and is yet to arrive as Kalki, in the present Yuga, i.e. Kaliyuga.

Anvadhan and Ishti Date and Tithi
Anvadhan will be observed on June 20 while Ishti will be celebrated on the following day, i.e. June 21.

Ashadha, Krishna Amavasya begins at 11:52 AM on June 20 and shall end at 12:10 PM on June 21.
 

Vijaya Ekadashi is a very important Ekadashi as Lord Rama observed it for the first time. By observing the Vijaya Ekadashi vrat, he was able to get a solution to cross the ocean for reaching Lanka.

Vijaya Ekadashi is an auspicious day celebrate during the Krishna Paksha in Phalguna Month. 

The greatness of this Ekadasi is mentioned in the Skanda Purana and observing of Vijaya Ekadasi helps in removing all the guilt associated with sins committed and also helps in attaining victory.

According to various Puranas, Ekadashi tithi is considered auspicious, and Lord Vishnu is worshipped on this day. People who would like to attain salvation (moksha) by reaching the abode of Lord Vishnu directly are known to observe this fast with a lot of respect and devotion.

On this day, devotees wake up early in the morning, take the ritual bath, worship Lord Vishnu by chanting the Vishnu sahasranam. 

A person should observe this fast for the whole day and perform Jagran at night by reading Vishnu Path, Vishnu Sahasranama.

Parana means breaking the fast. Ekadashi Parana is done after sunrise on next day of Ekadashi fast. It is necessary to do Parana within Dwadashi Tithi unless Dwadashi is over before sunrise. Not doing Parana within Dwadashi is similar to an offence.

Parana should not be done during Hari Vasara. One should wait for Hari Vasara to get over before breaking the fast. Hari Vasara is first one fourth duration of Dwadashi Tithi. The most preferred time to break the fast is Pratahkal. One should avoid breaking the fast during Madhyahna. If due to some reasons one is not able to break the fast during Pratahkal then one should do it after Madhyahna.

At times Ekadashi fasting is suggested on two consecutive days. It is advised that Smartha with family should observe fasting on first day only. The alternate Ekadashi fasting, which is the second one, is suggested for Sanyasis, widows and for those who want Moksha. When alternate Ekadashi fasting is suggested for Smartha it coincides with Vaishnava Ekadashi fasting day.

Ekadashi fasting on both days is suggested for staunch devotees who seek for love and affection of Lord Vishnu.

Fasting date and Parana time

On 20th Feb, Parana Time - 06:50 AM to 09:08 AM
On Parana Day Dwadashi End Moment - 03:59 PM

Ekadashi Tithi Begins - 02:32 PM on Feb 18, 2020
Ekadashi Tithi Ends - 03:02 PM on Feb 19, 2020

Vijaya Ekadashi Vrat & Puja Rituals

*     Keep seven different kinds of cereals within the vedi or boundary on Ekadashi.

*     Place a vessel or vase made out of gold, silver, copper and clay within it.

*    Take a resolution for fasting after bathing in the morning.

*     Establish the idol of Lord Vishnu on Panch Pallav Vase or Kalash.

*     Worship Shri Hari with incense sticks, sandalwood, diyas, flowers, fruits, and tulsi.

*     Along with fasting, narrate the story.

*     Conduct a jagrata in the name of Shri Hari and worship him.

*     On the twelfth day, feed the brahmins and donate the vessel or vase.

*     Open your fast after that.

The legend behind Vijaya Ekadashi:

Hindu devotees hold Vijaya Ekadashi in high esteem because of the mythological events associated with it. King Yudhisthira once asked Lord Krishna,"O Lord Shri Krishna, O glorious son of Vasudeva, please be merciful to me and describe the Ekadashi that occurs during the dark fortnight of the month of Phalguna (February-March)."

Lord Shri Krishna replied, "O Yudhisthira, O king of kings, gladly shall I tell you about this great fast, known as Vijaya Ekadashi. Whoever observes it certainly achieves success both in this life and the next. All the sins of one who fasts on this Ekadashi and hears its sublime glories are eradicated.

Narada Muni once asked Lord Brahma, who sits on a lotus, about Vijaya Ekadashi. Narada said, `O best of the demigods, kindly tell me the merit one can achieve by faithfully observing Vijaya Ekadashi.

Narada's great father replied, `My dear son, this oldest of fasting days is pure, and it nullifies all sins. I have never revealed this to anyone until today, but you can understand beyond any doubt that this Ekadashi bestows the result indicated by its name (Vijaya means "victory").
 
When Lord Rama was exiled to the forest for fourteen years, He, goddess Sita, and His divine brother Lakhsmana stayed at Panchavati as mendicants. Sita was kidnapped by Ravana, and Rama seemingly became bewildered by distress. While searching for His beloved consort, the Lord came upon the dying Jatayu and thereafter killed His enemy Kabandha. The great devotee-vulture Jatayu returned to Vaikuntha after telling Rama how His dear Sita had been abducted by Ravana.

Later, Rama and Sugriva, the king of the monkeys, became friends.' Together they amassed a grand army of monkeys and bears and sent Hanumanji to Shri Lanka, where he was able to see Janaki, Sitadevi, in an ashoka garden. He delivered Rama's message to Her and then returned to Rama with Her message to Him, thus rendering great service to the Supreme Lord.

With the help of Sugriva, Lord Rama proceeded toward Shri Lanka. Upon arriving at the shore of the ocean with the army of monkeys, He could understand that the water was uncommonly deep. Thus He said to Lakshmana, "O son of Sumitra, how can We earn enough merit to be able to cross this vast ocean, the unfathomable abode of Varuna? I can see no easy way to cross it, teeming as it is with sharks and other ferocious fish."

Laksmana replied, "O best of all beings, O origin of all gods, O primal personality, the great sage Bakadalbhya lives on an island just four miles from here. O Raghava, he has seen many Brahmas come and go, so aged and wise is he. Let us ask him how We can safely reach Our goal."

So Rama and Lakshmana proceeded to the humble ashrama of the incomparable Bakadalbhya Muni. Approaching him, the two Lords paid Their respectful obeisances to him as if he were a second Vishnu. Bakadalbhya could understand, however, that Rama was actually the Supreme Personality of Godhead, who for His own reasons had appeared on earth as a human being.

O Rama," said Bakadalbhya, "O best of human beings, why have You come to my lowly abode?"

The Lord replied, "O great, twice-born brahmana, I have come here to the ocean shore with My phalanx of monkeys and bears in order to cross the sea and conquer Lanka and its demon horde. O greatest of sages, please be merciful to Me and tell Me how I can cross this vast ocean. That is why I have come to you today."

The sage said, "O Lord Rama, I shall tell you of the most exalted of all fasts, observing which You will surely conquer Ravana and be eternally glorified. Kindly listen with full attention.

On the day before Ekadashi, fashion a waterpot of gold or silver, or even of copper. Even clay will do if these metals are unavailable. Fill the pot with pure water and then decorate it nicely with mango leaves. Cover it and place it near a holy altar upon a mound of seven grains. Now take Your morning bath, decorate the waterpot with flower garlands and sandalwood paste, and in the concave lid atop the pot place barley, pomegranate, and coconut. Now with great love and devotion worship the waterpot-deity and offer Him incense, sandalwood paste, flowers, a ghee lamp, and a plate of sumptuous food. Remain awake that night beside this sacred pot. On top of the lid filled with barley, etc., place a golden murti of Lord Narayana.

When Ekadashi dawns, take your morning bath and then decorate the waterpot with fine sandalwood paste and garlands. Then worship the pot with first-class incense; sandalwood paste, and a ghee lamp, and also devotedly place many kinds of cooked food, pomegranate, and coconut before the waterpot. Then remain awake over night.

When Dvadasi dawns, take the waterpot to the bank of a holy river, or even to the shore of a small pond. After worshiping it properly, O King of kings, offer it with all the aforementioned ingredients to a pure brahmana expert in the Vedic science. If You and Your military commanders observe Vijaya Ekadashi in this way, You will surely be victorious in every way."

Lord Ramacandra, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, did just as Bakadalbhya Muni instructed, and thus He conquered all demoniac forces. Similarly, anyone who observes Vijaya Ekadashi in this way will always be victorious in this mortal world, and after leaving this world he will reside forever in the kingdom of God.

O Narada, my son, from this history you can understand why one should observe this Ekadashi fast properly, strictly following the rules and regulations. This fast is powerful enough to eradicate all one's sinful reactions, even the most abominable ones.'

Shri Krishna concluded, "O Yudhisthira, anyone who reads or hears this history will attain the same great merit as that earned by performing a horse sacrifice."

As per the name, Vijaya Ekadashi gives success to a person in difficult circumstances of life
 

This year, Sita Ashtami will be Celebrated on Sunday, 16 February 2020. Janaki Jayanti is observed annually on Krishna Paksha Ashtami in the month of Phalguna as per North Indian lunar calendar. However in Amanta lunar calendar, followed in Gujarat, Maharashtra and Southern Indian states, Janaki Jayanti is observed during Magha lunar month. However in both calendars Janaki Jayanti is observed on the same day. 

Sita Ashtami, or Janaki Janma, is believed to be the day when Mata Sita appeared on earth as per traditional calendar and Panchangs followed in North India. Sita Ashtami is observed on the eighth day of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of moon) of Phalguna month (February – March).

Mata Sita is an embodiment of purity and wifely devotion and the consort of Sri Ram in Ramayan. Mata Sita was adopted by King Janaka; after he found her while ploughing his field. Sita is believed to be an incarnation o Goddess Lakshmi and is worshipped in temples dedicated to Lord Ram.

So powerful was Sita’s chastity that even though she was carried away by Ravana and kept imprisoned, Ravana could never reach near her as she kept meditating on Lord Ram; and the energy she created out of meditation was powerful enough to burn to death anyone who approached her without her permission.

When she was rescued, Mata Sita asserted her purity by undergoing ordeal by fire. But eventually Lord Ram had to banish her from Ayodhya as his subjects questioned Her purity. She spend the rest of her life in the forest and gave birth to Kusha and Lava. Finally, she called upon her Mother Earth, to swallow her up. She returned in the same way, She was born. For centuries the life of Mata Sita has been an inspiration for millions of women.

It must be noted here that the birthday or Jayanti of Mata Sita is known as Sita Navami with Hindu communities in the western and eastern parts of India and is observed in Vaishaka month (April – May).

Janaki Jayanti Rituals
The devotees observing this auspicious day should get up and take bath during the Brahma Muhurta only. Install the idol in which Lord Ram, Goddess Sita, Lakshman and Hanuman are shown together (such an idol is known as Ram Darbar), on a red-coloured cloth. Offer yellow flowers and all the sixteen items of shringar to the Goddess. (you can get these prepared in the market).

Following this, also chant the below-given mantras 108 times each.

1. Om Shri Sitayai Namah

2. Om Shri Sita Ramay Namah

Many people also observe a fast on this day. While many people observe it as a fasting day also, it is believed that when married women observe this fast, they get relief from all the problems of life.

Ashtami Tithi Begins - 04:29 PM on Feb 15, 2020
Ashtami Tithi Ends - 03:13 PM on Feb 16, 2020

Famous Temples of Janaki :

* Janaki Mandir in Janakpur, Nepal.

* Sita Mai Temple in Sitamai village in the Karnal district of Haryana, India.

* Sita Kund, Punaura Dham in Sitamarhi District in Bihar, India.

* Seetha Devi Temple in Pulpally in the Waynad district, Kerala, India.

* Seetha Amman Kovil in Nähe Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka.
 

Magha Purnima is an important day for Hindus that falls on the ‘purnima’ (full moon day) in the month of ‘Magha’ in the traditional Hindu calendar. This date roughly corresponds to the months of January-February in the Gregorian calendar. Magha Purnima is also popularly known as ‘Maghi Purnima’ or ‘Maha Maghi’ and is the last and most important day of the Magha Maas. In the Hindu legends Purnima is known to be an important day for performing religious and spiritual rituals, and of these the Magha Purnima is one of the most auspicious.

On this day Hindu devotees in thousands perform the ritualistic bath at the Triveni Sangam in Prayag. During this time the famous ‘Kumbha Mela’ and ‘Magha Mela’ is also held in which devotees flock from each and every corner of the country. Even in southern states of India like Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, it is celebrated with utmost enthusiasm and gaiety. In Tamil Nadu on this day the spectacular ‘float’ festival is held wherein beautifully decorated idols of Meenakshi and Lord Sundeshwara are mounted on floats. Magha Purnima also holds special significance for followers of Buddhism as it is believed that Gautama Buddha pronounced his impending death on the same day.

This year, Sant Ravidas Jayanti is also observed on Magha Purnima day. Guru Ravidas (1377-1527 C.E.) was a famous saint of the Bhakti Movement. His devotional songs and verses made a lasting impact upon the Bhakti Movement. Guru Ravidas is also known as Raidas, Rohidas and Ruhidas.
According to historians Guru Ravidas was born during 1377 C.E. at Mandhuadhe in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India. There is controversy on the exact birth date of Ravidas. According to some scholars it was year 1399 when Guru Ravidas was born. As per Hindu calendar Guru Ravidas was born on Magha Purnima. Hence his birth anniversary is celebrated on Magha Purnima as per Hindu lunar calendar.

Rituals during Magha Purnima:
* On the day of Magha Purnima, devotees must get up early and take a holy dip in any water body, before sunrise. For those who cannot take a dip in the river, can take bath at home by mixing Gangajal in water.

* After the ritualistic bath, devotees begin to make preparations for the puja. On this day, they worship Lord Vishnu and Hanuman Ji. Also along with the ‘Ishta Devatas’, the day of Magha Purnima is also dedicated to worshipping Goddess Parvati and Lord Brihaspati’ (as Brihaspati is the God of Magha Nakshatram).

* Devotees perform the Satyanarayana Puja with full devotion and also recite the Satyanarayana Katha. The idol of the lord is worshipped with banana leaves, sandalwood paste, til, supari, moli and fruits. In the most of Lord Vishnu’s temples across India, special arrangements for this puja are made. Hence people also visit the temples in the evening.

* Fasting on the day of Magha Purnima is also considered to be rewarding. The observer of this vrat, fasts during the day and eats only after offering ‘ardhya’ to the moon in the evening. Only Single meal is allowed in a day.

* Making donations in the form of clothes, food, cereals, ghee, jaggery and fruits is highly beneficial. Donations can be any form and should be made to Brahmins and those in need. In the Hindu scriptures, it is believed to be very auspicious to donate ‘til’ (sesame seeds) in the entire month of Magha.

* In some regions ancestor rituals are also held on Magha Purnima. Devotees offer tarpan for the peace f the deceased souls.

Significance of Magha Purnima:
The importance of Magha Purnima is mentioned in Brahma Vaivarta Purana. According to the Hindu mythology, on this sacred day, Lord Vishnu resides in the River Ganga and therefore it is strongly believed that by mere touching the holy water of River Ganga, devotees can attain salvation. Taking a holistic bath in the sacred rivers like Ganga, Saraswati and Yamuna on Magha Purnima is very beneficial. By piously observing the Magha Purnima vrat devotees can gain freedom from their sins and also acquire purity and peace of mind. Doing charity on Magha Purnima gives same benefits as observing Maha Yagyas.

Besides, religious significance, the day of Magha Purnima is also holds importance in the science of astrology. It is held that on this day Sun enters into the Capricorn Sign and Moon moves in the Cancer constellation. Hence it is believed that taking a holy dip on Magha Purnima can put an end to all the problems correlated with Sun and Moon. The month of Magha is also beneficial from scientific point of view. It is believed that this month helps the human body to adjust with the changing seasons. Therefore taking a bath on Magha Purnima will provide strength and power to the body.

Important Timings On Magha Purnima

Sunrise                                        February 09, 2020 7:07 AM
Sunset                                         February 09, 2020 6:15 PM
Purnima Tithi Begins              February 08, 2020 4:02 PM
Purnima Tithi Ends                 February 09, 2020 1:03 PM

As per the Hindu calendar, Shattila Ekadashi falls on January 20 this year. The auspicious day coincides with the Krishna Paksha of Magh month. Shattila Ekadashi is also called ‘Tilda.’

Hindus worship Lord Vishnu on Shattila Ekadashi, and devotees who fast on this day are believed to be rewarded with ‘Moksha’.

Practising Hindus also donate ‘til’ on Ekadashi to get rid of their past sins.

Here are all the details you need to know about the Tithi and Muhurat for Shattila Ekadashi.

Shattila Ekadashi 2020 Tithi:

January 20, 11th day in the month of Magha as per the Hindu Samwat calendar.

Shattila Ekadashi 2020 Shubh Muhurat:

Begins – 02:51 AM on January 20

Ends – 02:05 AM on January 21

Shattila Ekadashi 2020 Parana Time:

January 21, from 08:00 AM to 09:29 AM

Shattila Ekadashi 2020 Vrat Vidhi:

Devotees usually wake up early and take a holy bath at the time of sunrise.

Eating til early in the morning is also considered to be auspicious.

While fasting on Ekadashi is not mandatory, many voluntarily fast to be blessed by Lord Vishnu. One can either observe a full or partial fast on Ekadashi. During the fast, one cannot consume any food grains, rice and pulses.

Lord Krishna is also worshiped on the occasion of Shattila Ekadashi. His idol is immersed in water with til as per rituals.

Devotees come together worship Lord Vishnu and Krishna on this day. People often come together with relatives and friends to sing bhajans and offer prayers.
 

Vat Purnima Vrat is similar to Vat Savitri Vrat. Married women observe Vat Purnima Vrat for well-being and long life of their husband.

In Vat Savitri Vrat, women tie a ceremonial sacred thread around a banyan tree, keep fast and listen to Savitri-Satyavan Katha from the priest.

This Vrat is especially observed by newlyweds with great enthusiasm.

The fasting is based on the devotion and determination shown by Savitri to win her husband Satyavan back from the clutches of Yama.

This puja is performed under a banyan tree which is considered to be the main idol of this festival which symbolically represents Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Shiva. The root represents Lord Brahma, the stem represents Lord Vishnu and the upper portion is Lord Shiva. Vat Savitri Vrat fasting begins on the Trayodashi day of Jyeshtha month and ends on Purnima.

Most of the festivals in Amanta and Purnimanta lunar calendar fall on the same day. Purnimanta calendar is followed in North Indian states, mainly in Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Punjab and Haryana. In rest of the states usually Amanta lunar calendar is followed.

However Vat Savitri Vrat could be considered as an exception. In Purnimanta calendar Vat Savitri Vrat is observed during Jyeshtha Amavasya which coincides with Shani Jayanti. In Amanta calendar Vat Savitri Vrat, which is also called as Vat Purnima Vrat, is observed during Jyeshtha Purnima.

Hence married women in Maharashtra, Gujarat and southern Indian states observe Vat Savitri Vrat 15 days later than that of North Indian women. However the legend behind observing the fast is same in both calendars.

According to legend great Savitri tricked Lord Yama, the lord of death, and compelled Him to return the life of her husband Satyawan. Hence Married women observe Vat Savitri Vrat for well-being and long life of their husband.

Puja Rituals

On this auspicious day, women take holy bath early in the morning as purification and wear new colourful clothes, bright bangles and apply vermillion on their forehead.

They adorn one leaf of banyan in their hair. They also offer 9 types of fruits and flowers to Goddess Savitri. Wet pulses, rice, mangos, jackfruits, palm fruits, kendu, bananas and several other fruits are offered as Bhoga (offering) and the day is observed with Savitri Vrat Katha.

After the fast is over, they consume bhogal and take blessings from the husband and elders in the house.

It is believed that Vat Savitri Vrat can turn even the utmost bad fortune of a woman into a good one.

Vat Purnima Vrat Timings

Purnima Tithi Begins = 14:01 on 16/Jun/2019

Purnima Tithi Ends = 14:00 on 17/Jun/2019

Kojagiri / Sharad Purnima has a huge religious significance in Indian festivals. According to astrologists, Sharad Purnima timing will start at 22:36 on 23rd October and ends on 24th October 22:14. It is celebrated in every state of India but the major celebration of Sharad Purnima is in Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana, Bengal, and Odisha. In Odisha, it is celebrated as the birth date of 'lord Kartikeya' named as 'kumar Purnima'.  In Gujarat Sharad Purnima is named as 'Sharad Poonam'. Also in some religion, it is known as Kojagara Purnima and women perform Vart for the whole day and Kojagara vart is famous by name 'Kaumaudi Vart'.

Sharad Purnima is known for worship Maa Lakshmi, it is believed that if devotees perform puja or vart for Maa Lakshmi, Maa fulfills their all wishes. Devotees have to take bath early and decorate idol of Maa Lakshmi and lighting a dia among Maa Lakshmi and chanting the mantra. People make Keer as a Prashad and open their fast in the evening with milk and rice flakes.

It is believed that Sharad Purnima is the only day in the year when the moon comes out with all sixteen Kala(s). In Hinduism, each human quality is associated with certain Kala and it is believed that the combination of sixteen different Kala(s) creates a perfect human personality. It was Lord Krishna who was born with all sixteen Kala(s) and He was the complete incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Lord Rama was born with only twelve Kala(s).

Hence, worshipping God Chandra on the day of Sharad Purnima is considered very significant. Newly wed women, who take pledge to do Purnimasi fasting for the year, begin the fast from the day of Sharad Purnima. In Gujarat Sharad Purnima is more popularly known as Sharad Poonam.

On this day not only Moon shines with all sixteen Kala(s) but also its rays have certain healing properties which nourish the body and the soul. It is also believed that the moon rays on the day of Sharad Purnima drip nectar. Hence to take advantage of this divine phenomenon, traditionally on the day of Sharad Purnima, Rice-Kheer a famous Indian sweet dish made of cow milk, rice and sugar, is prepared and left in moonlight for the whole night. In the morning, Rice-Kheer which is believed to be invigorated and fortified with the moonlight is consumed and distributed as Prasad in family members.

According to Hindu mythology, Lord Krishna's Raasleela began with Sharad Purnima so the day is known as Raas Purnima. Kartik month of Hindu calendar starts from Sharad Purnima. Some people believe to take bath early in the morning at 4 o?clock during whole month or Kartik. It is believed that Lord Krishna supernaturally stretched the night to the length of one night of Lord Brahma which was equivalent of billions of human years.

Thus, the day brings an opportunity for the believers to get better health and stay prosperous.