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Yoga for Stress Reduction at the Sivananda Ashram Yoga Farm by Dr. Timothy McCall

admin — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 21:19:58 +0000

Dr. Timothy McCall describes the health benefits and stress reduction that comes from practicing Yoga.

Cost of a Miracle

adam — Tue, 23 Mar 2010 03:20:00 +0000

Cost of a Miracle A little girl went to her bedroom and pulled a glass jelly jar from its hiding place in the closet.. She poured the change out on the floor and counted it carefully.. Three times, even The total had to be exactly perfect.. No chance here for mistakes. Carefully placing the coins back in the jar and twisting on the cap, she slipped out the back door and made her way 6 blocks to Rexall’s Drug Store with the big red Indian Chief sign above the door.. She waited patiently for the pharmacist to give her some attention, but he was too busy at this moment. Tess twisted her feet to make a scuffing noise. Nothing. She cleared her throat with the most disgusting sound she could muster. No good Finally she took a quarter from her jar and banged it on the glass counter. That did it! ‘And what do you want?’ the pharmacist asked in an annoyed tone of voice. I’m talking to my brother from Chicago whom I haven’t seen in ages,’ he said without waiting for a reply to his question. ‘Well, I want to talk to you about my brother,’ Tess answered back in the same annoyed tone. ‘He’s really, really sick…and I want to buy a miracle.’ ‘I beg your pardon?’ said the pharmacist. ‘His name is Andrew and he has something bad growing inside his head and my Daddy says only a miracle can save him now So how much does a miracle cost?’ ‘We don’t sell miracles here, little girl. I’m sorry but I can’t help you,’ the pharmacist said, softening a little. ‘Listen, I have the money to pay for it. If it isn’t enough, I will get the rest. Just tell me how much it costs.’ The pharmacist’s brother was a well dressed man He stooped down and asked the little girl, ‘What kind of a miracle does your brother need?’ ‘ I don’t know,’ Tess replied with her eyes welling up. I just know he’s really sick and Mommy says he needs an operation. But my Daddy can’t pay for it, so I want to use my money.’ ‘How much do you have?’ asked the man from Chicago ‘One dollar and eleven cents,’ Tess answered barely audibly. ‘And it’s all the money I have, but I can get some more if I need to….’ ‘Well, what a coincidence, ‘ smiled the man. ‘A dollar and eleven cents—the exact price of a miracle for little brothers.’ He took her money in one hand and with the other hand he grasped her mitten and said ‘Take me to where you live. I want to see your brother and meet your parents. Let’s see if I have the miracle you need.’ That well dressed man was Dr. Carlton Armstrong, a surgeon, specializing in neuro-surgery. The operation was completed free of charge and it wasn’t long until Andrew was home again and doing well. Mom and Dad were happily talking about the chain of events that had led them to this place. ‘That surgery,’ her Mom whispered. ‘was a real miracle. I wonder how much it would have cost?’ Tess smiled. She knew exactly how much a miracle cost..one dollar and eleven cents….plus the faith of a little child. In our lives, we never know how many miracles we will need. A miracle is not the suspension of natural law, but the operation of a higher law. I know you’ll keep the ball moving! Here it goes. Throw it back to someone who means something to you! A ball is a circle, no beginning, no end. It keeps us together like our Circle of Friends. But the treasure inside for you to see is the treasure of friendship you’ve granted to me.. Today I pass the friendship ball to you. God is a friend of ours and this is what he says to you Pass it on to someone who is a friend to you. MY OATH TO YOU… When you are sad…..I will dry your tears. When you are scared…… .I will comfort your fears. When you are worried….. .I will give you hope. When you are confused…. ….I will help you cope.. And when you are lost….And can’t see the light, I shall be your beacon…..Shining ever so bright. This is my oath…..I pledge till the end. Why you may ask?……Because you’re my friend. The GOD.

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Cost of a Miracle

Eighth Jyotir Linga Kedarnath Dham

admin — Sun, 21 Feb 2010 10:24:00 +0000

This is a one of my friend’s friend’s visit to Kedarnath and his summary of the visit.The Samadhi of Sri Adi Sankaracharya is supposed to be there in Kedarnath, you will find the statue of Sri Sankara in the photograph presnted here in the blog. 8th Jyotirlinga- Kedareshwar As usual, click on any of the above pictures to see the larger view or to save them to your computer. Today, we will be visiting the very famous kedarnath temple which is one of the holiest Hindu temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and is located atop the Garhwal Himalayan range near the Mandakini river in Kedarnath, Uttarakhand in India Beautiful Sunrise at Kedarnath : Due to extreme weather conditions, the temple is open only between the end of April to start of November. Here god Shiva is worshipped as Kedarnath, the ‘Lord of Kedar Khand’, the historical name of the region Built in 8th Century AD, The Kedarnath shrine, one of the 12 jyotirlings of Lord Shiva, is a scenic spot situated, against the backdrop of the majestic Kedarnath range There are more than hundreds shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva in region, the most important one is Kedarnath. According to legend, the Pandavas after having won over the Kauravas in the Kurukshetra war, felt quilty of having killed their own relative and sought the blessings of Lord Shiva Moksh. At the end of their life, the Pandavas decided to give up their kingdom and go to the Himalayas and meditate on their favourite deity, Lord Shiva. So they set out accompanied by their wife, Draupadi. When they reached the place called Rudraprayag, they thought they had a glimpse of Lord Shiva. They tried to chase him but he took on the form of a buffalo and dashed off towards the north. They followed in hot pursuit and eventually caught up with him at the place that is now known as Kedarnath. The Lord now dived into the earth. Only the hind portion of the buffalo was sticking out. This was caught by one of the brothers called, Bhima. But pull as he might, he couldn’t get the rest of the buffalo out of the ground. The hump now turned into a Shiva Lingam and remained at this place. Each of the other parts appeared at four other places and came to be collectively known as the Panch Kedars or the five Kedars. All these lie in the Garwal Himalayas in the modern state known as Uttranchal As a matter of fact, as one enters the main temple, the first hall contains statues of the five Pandava brothers, Lord Krishna, Nandi, the vehicle of Shiva and Virabhadra, one of the greatest guards of Shiva. An unusual feature of the temple is the head of a man carved in the triangular stone fascia of the temple. Such a head is seen carved in another temple nearby constructed on the site where the the marriage of Shiva and Parvati was held. The spire of the Kedarnath Temple with the Kedarnath Mountain in the background. The temple is devoted to Siva. Gaurikund to Kedarnath trail : The actual temple, an impressive stone edifice of unknown date, is accessible only after a steep 14 km walk (horses or palanquins are available for rent). The most remote of the four Char Dham sites, Kedarnath is flanked by breathtaking snow-capped peaks. This is a part of 14km trek from Gourikund to Kedarnath. Beautiful trek towards Kedarnath This is the beautiful trek towards the Kedarnath temple. The Holy river Mandakini accompanies the trekkers throughout the tough, but rewarding journey. The trail to Kedarnath, part of the Char Dham pilgrimage through the Indian Himalayas. On the way to Ramwara to reach reach Kedarnath Path from Ramwara to Garur Chatti – On way to Kedarnath Garur Chatti : Let us all pray at this sacred temple for all our loved ones The last phase of journey to Shri Kedarnath. The awesome majesty of Kedarnath is first experienced at this place, ca. 1.5 kms from Kedarnath. Kedarnath (11,753 ft.) is sacred for a temple to the god Shiva, in his form as Kedarnath (the “Lord of Kedar”). The snow on the peaks behind never melts. Besides its affiliation with Shiva, Kedarnath is also believed to be the site of Sankaracaraya’s samadhi (achievement of beatified afterlife). Samadhi of Adi Shankaracharya at Kedarnath Kedarnath temple door Kedarnath temple shikhar A Saadhu , who is all immersed in his daily pooja (ritual to worship Lord Shiva) just in front the famous Kedarnath temple in Uttaranchal Nandi – Bull of Lord Shiva guarding the doors at Kedarnath temple Kedarnath Lingam- My heartfelt pranams to this form of Lord Shiva. I thank him for all the happiness and blessings that He has showered upon me and I pray to Him to forgive me and all His devotees for all the sins and bad karmas that we have done out of our sheer stupidity. This is one of the demons guarding a small temple with a hot spring in Kedarnath. Amrit kund behind Kedarnath temple – Eshaneshwar temple inside the Kedarnath temple complex – Panch Kedar (Sanskrit: पंचकेदार) refers to five Hindu temples or holy places of the Shaivite sect dedicated to god Shiva. They are located in the Garhwa Himalayan region in Uttarakhand, India. They are the subject of many legends that directly link their creation to Pandavas, the heroes of the Hindu epic Mahabharata The five temples designated in the strict pecking order to be followed for pilgrimage for worship are the Kedarnath (Sanskrit: केदारनाथ) at an altitude of 3,583 m (11,760 ft), the Tungnath (तुंगनाथ)(3,680 m/12,100 ft), Rudranath (रुद्रनाथ) (2,286 m/7,500 ft), Madhyamaheshwar (मध्यमहेश्वर) or Madmaheshwar (3,490 m/11,500 ft) and Kalpeshwar (कल्पेश्वर) (2,200 m/7,200 ft). Kedarnath – 1st Panch Kedar Kedarnath, at the head of the Mandakini River, is amongst the holiest pilgrimages for the devout Hindu. The temple, believed to be very ancient, has been continually renovated over the centuries. The lingam at Kedarnath, unlike its usual form, is pyramidal and is regarded as one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. Situated at an altitude of 3,581 mts. Kedar is another name of Lord Shiva the protector and the destroyer. Shiva, is considered the embodiment of all passions-love, hatred, fear, death and mysticism that are expressed through his various forms Kalpa Vriksha (Jyotir Math) – wish fulfilling tree of this age. The first Shankaracharya (Adhi Shankara) attained enlightenment under this tree at the age of 16 Valley of flowers Trishul Nandi Devi (7816 meters) Chaukamba Devi Rudraprayag Bhagirathi Tungnath – 2nd Panch Kedar [ On the way to Tungnath temple] Set on the crest of a hill at an altitude of 3,886 meters, Tungnath is the highest temple in India. Legend has it that the arm of Shiva appeared here. Ravana, of the Ramayana, is said to have performed penance at this temple to propitiate Shiva. The high altitude temple is a Seat of Swyambhu Linga or the Lord Shiva Incarnate. The temple, one of the Panchakedars or one of the five Shiva temples, is situated in Chamoli district of the Uttarakhand region. Final steps to reach the Tungstan temple Rear view of the Tungnath temple The mythology has it that Lord Shiva was enraged at the act of homicide enacted by the Pandavas by killing their brethren in the grand battle of Mahabharata. Aware of Shiva’s annoyance, the Pandavas built the temple to please Lord Shiva and for their own salvation. Others claim that the Adi Shankaracharya during his historic visit to the region had got it built. They cite the presence of Adi Shankaracharya’s image in the garbha-griha or the sanctum of the temple. However, it also houses images of the Pandavas. Besides, the ashtadhatu images of Kaal Bhairava and Veda Vyasa are among the multitude of images there. A dark left-tilting one-foot high linga is the centre of attraction. The locals describe it as an arm of Lord Shiva. The arm of Lord Shiva is also associated with a legend. Tunganath Temple at 12,400 Ft Other temples Built of stone, this temple is a fine model of ancient architecture. Facing the gate of the temple is Nandi, the Divine Bull and Shiva’s vehicle. There are two smaller temples dedicated to Parvati and Vyas in a small courtyard. The temple of Tungnath, at a little over 12, 000 feet, is the highest shrine on the inner Himalayan range. It lies just below the Chandrashila peak My Heartfelt pranams to Lord Shiva in Tungnath temple Path to Rudranath Temple-14 300 Ft Rudranath – 3rd Pancha Kedar The face of Lord Shiva is worshipped at Rudranath temple in a natural rock temple as Neelkantha Mahadeva. Lord Shiva is worshipped here as Neelkantha. The temple is situated amid thick forest at a height 2286 mtrs. From Gopeshwar 4 kms drivable road is available upto village Sagar from where 20 kms. trek leads to Rudranath and can be approached from Joshimath as well, by trekking about 45 kms. The temple provides magnificent view of Hathi Parvat , Nandadevi, NandaGhunti, Trishuli and many other. There are numbers of holy Kunds (Tanks) near Rudranath temple namely Suryakund, Chandrakund, Tarakund etc. The Baitarini, the divine river flows pass behind the temple. Anusuya Devi temple is located on the trek to Rudranath involving an additional trek of 3km. Rudranath shrine : This is the only temple in India where the image of Shiva is worshipped as a symbol of his face, a sublime, tender aspect of Shiva, unusual, serene and beautiful indeed to behold.Devotees come to Rudranath to offer ritual obeisance to their ancestors, for it is here, at Vaitarani river (the water of salvation), that the souls of the dead cross when changing world. Guptakashi temple:Kashi is the old name for Varanasi and “gupta” means secret or hidden. Guptakashi has an ancient temple of Shiva and derives its name from the fact that this is the place where Shiva is supposed to have hidden himself when the Pandavas chased him. At this place he disappeared and hid himself in a cave. Hence this place is known as Guptakashi or the “hidden Kashi”. Entrance to kalimath.Kalimath is situated close to Ukhimath, and Guptakashi. It is one of the “Siddha Peeths” of the region and is held in high religious esteem. The temple of Goddess Kali located here is visited by a large number of devotees round the year and specially during the “Navratras”. My heartfelt pranams to the idol at Kailmath temple Chandi Devi Temple : Legend goes that the Goddess Chandi Devi was sitting on a rock, combing her hair when two demons that were the servitors of the two brothers Shumba and Nishumba saw her and were totally captivated by her intoxicating beauty. They ran back to their masters and reported the matter to them. The whole story is narrated in the Devi Mahatmyam. The rock on which she was sitting is close to this temple. Ransi temple on the way to Madhyamaheshwar Ransi temple on the way to Madhyamaheshwar Madhyamaheshwar–4th Pancha Kedar Nandi Kund The stomach of Shiva is believed to have emerged at Madmaheshwar. The temple of Madmaheshwar is located at an altitude of 3,289 m. above sea level, on the slope of a ridge, 25 km northeast of Guptakashi. There is a motorable road from Guptakashi to Kalimath. The best statue of Har Gauri in India measuring over a metre high is found in the Kali temple. The trek from Kalimath to Madmaheshwar is distinguished by wild unparalleled scenic beauty and engulfed by Chaukhamba, Kedarnath and Neelkanth peaks. Gaundar at the confluence of Madmaheshwar Ganga and Markanga Ganga, is the last settlement before one reaches Madmaheshwar. Located at the base of Chaukhamba peak at an altitude of 3289 m the classic temple architecture belongs to the North-Indian style. So sanctified is the water here that even a few drops are considered sufficient for ablution. The natural scenery is dramatically wild, with deep gorges & valleys, mountain sides flung upwards towards the skies, the forests where the snow lies thick in winter, only to be replaced by a carpet of greenery in the summer. Kedarnath & Neelkanth peaks are visible from here, the entire ring of mountains associated with the life & times of Shiva. The confluence of Madmaheshwar Ganga just short of the temple, is one of the prettiest spots in the region. Har-Parvati at Madhyamaheshwara Lord Shiva-(Dakshina murti) at Madhyamaheshwara Kalpeshwar –5th Pancha Kedar [On the way] The hardier tourist may like to trek about 35 km to Kalpeshwar, where the locks (hair) and head, of Lord Shiva are worshipped as JATADHAR. Located in Urgam Valley at an altitude of 2,134 m. above sea level, the temple is a further 10 km trek from Rudranath to Helong, the motor head on Rishikesh-Badrinath route. The small rock temple of Kalpeshwar is where the Hair appeared. Short of Kalpeshwar is the picturesque valley of Urgam. It is a favorite location of meditating sages. Legend has it that the sage Arghya had performed austerities here and created the nymph, Urvashi. Rishi Durvasa is also believed to have meditated here under the wish-fulfilling tree, Kalpavriksha. The sage had given Kunti the boon that she could invoke any of the forces of nature and they would appear before her and grant whatever she desired. Known for his quick temper, Rishi Durvasa is often recalled in context of the incident when, along with several disciples, he visited Kunti’s sons, while they were in exile. He indicated that he and his disciples expected food. There was not a grain to cook. Lord Krishna who appeared and miraculously solved the problem answered an anxious Draupadi’s prayers My Heart felt pranams to the Panch kedars.May lord Shiva always guide us to the path that will lead us to his sacred feet.

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Eighth Jyotir Linga Kedarnath Dham

Sankhya Yoga

admin — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 15:24:00 +0000

There are six major schools of thought in Hindu philosophy called the Shatdarsanas, which accept the authority of the Vedas and are therefore grouped as astika. They are Nyaya, Vaiseshika, Samkhya, Yoga, Purva Mimamsa and Uttara Mimamsa (or Vedanta). Of these, the Samkhya (pronounced ‘Saankhya’) system is considered as the oldest philosophical system founded by Kapila Muni. The Samkhya school of philosophy is of particular interest to us now since it is considered as the basis of all schools of Indian Dualism and finds mention in the Mahabharata, Bhagavata and later in the Yoga Vashishtha. According to the Bhagavatam, Kapila Muni was born to Kardama Muni and Devahuti. After his father Kardama Muni renounced the world, Kapila Muni instructs his mother into the nuances of yoga and devotion to Lord Vishnu. Thus, his teachings are also considered as the essence of Bhakti Yoga. In the Bhagavad Gita, Krishna refers to himself thus, “Among the Siddhas, I am Kapila Muni” (10.26). Kapila Muni also finds a place in the story of the origin of the holy river Ganga. King Sagara of Ayodhya, an ancestor of Rama, performed the Aswamedha yajna (horse sacrifice) ninety-nine times. Indra the King of the Heaven grew jealous of him since the scriptures say that any person who performs the horse sacrifice a hundred times becomes the next Indra, ruler of the heavens. So, Indra kidnapped the horse and hid it in the hermitage of Kapila Muni during the hundredth sacrifice. The sons of Sagara found the horse in the Muni’s ashram and attacked him suspecting him to be the culprit. Kapila burnt the assailants to ashes with his spiritual power. Later, Anshuman, a grandson of King Sagara, went to Kapila and begged him to redeem the souls of his ancestors. Kapila replied that only if the water of the holy Ganga descended from heaven and touched the ashes would they be redeemed. The story of Anshuman’s son Bhagiratha fulfilling his father’s unfinished task by bringing down the Ganga and making it flow through Kapila Muni’s ashram is quite well known.

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Sankhya Yoga

Makar Sankranti

adam — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 06:40:00 +0000

Makar Sankranti is one of the most auspicious occasions for the Hindus, and is celebrated in almost all parts of the country in myriad cultural forms, with great devotion, fervour & gaiety. It is a harvest festival. Makar Sankranti is perhaps the only Indian festival whose date always falls on the same day every year i.e. the 14th of January. Makar Sankranti is the day when the glorious Sun-God begins its ascendancy and entry into the Northern Hemisphere and thus it signifies an event wherein the Sun-God seems to remind their children that ‘Tamaso Ma Jyotir Gamaya’, may you go higher & higher, to more & more Light and never to Darkness. To Hindus, the Sun stands for knowledge, spiritual light and wisdom. Makar Sankranti signifies that we should turn away from the darkness of delusion in which we live, and begin to enjoy a new life with bright light within us to shine brighter and brighter. We should gradually begin to grow in purity, wisdom, and knowledge, even as the Sun does from the Day of Makar Sankranti. The festival of Makar Sankranti is highly regarded by the Hindus from North to down South. The day is known by various names and a variety of traditions are witnessed as one explores the festival in different states.

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Makar Sankranti

Significance Of Number 108

adam — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 06:23:00 +0000

What is the significance of Number 108 In Hindu Philosophy!! As per Indian mythology, Indian culture has a Very special significance of Number 108. What is this number represent, And why is it so important? 1) In one minute, we breathe in approximately 15 times, In 1 hour 900 times, And in 12 hours 10800 times, And in a day 10800 * 2 times. A day consists Of 24 hours, and if we set aside half the day For our day to day routines, Then one can spend 12 hours For recitation of ones idol. Therefore, the Maximum number of times That one can recite “mantra”, or perform “Jap” are 10800. If one wants to obtain 100% benefit of its jap, Then performing Jap 108 times will give you the benefit of 100%. That’s why in a “Mala”, There are 108 beads. It is written in Vedas, That 1 Jap corresponds to 1 mala (which has 108 beads), Therefore performing jap of 108 malas will Result in 100% benefit. 2) Astronomically, there are 27 constellations In our galaxy, and each one them Has 4 directions, and 27 * 4 = 108, In other words the number 108 covers The whole galaxy. 3) According to Indian scriptures, Letter 9 corresponds to Lord Brahma (the creator of universe). Mathematically, The interesting property of 9 is 9×1 = 9 9 x 2 = 18 (8+1 = 9) 9 * 3 = 27 (7+2 = 9) …………………. 9 * 12 = 108 (1+0+8 = 9) Harshad number: 108 is a Harshad number, Which is an integer divisible by the sum of its digits (Harshad is from Sanskrit, and means “great joy”) Desires: There are said to be 108 earthly desires in mortals. Lies: There are said to be 108 lies that humans tell. Delusions: There are said to be 108 Human delusions or forms of ignorance. Heart Chakra: The chakras are the intersections of energy lines, and there are said to be a total of 108 energy lines converging to form the heart chakra. One of them, sushumna leads to the crown chakra, and is said to be the path to Self-realization. Sanskrit alphabet: There are 54 letters in The Sanskrit alphabet. Each has masculine and feminine, Shiva and shakti. 54 times 2 is 108. Pranayama: If one is able to be so calm In meditation as to have only 108 breaths In a day, enlightenment will come.

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Significance Of Number 108

Hindu Temple Kampuchia (Cambodia)

adam — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 17:40:00 +0000

Angkorwat- Introduction Angkorwat is a wonder on earth showing the caliber of supremacy of Hindu knowledge in terms of architectural science combining together with cosmology ,astrology ,numerology and historical events of Indian religion. If there is any place in world to see-its angkorwat. Everyone must see this at least for once in life. An extremely spectacular and stunning showcase of ancient knowledge challenging the latest technology today to solve its mysteries. Located in Northwestern Cambodia , Angkor, the Capital of the Ancient Khmer Empire was possibly founded around the Ninth Century AD by King Jayavarman II. However, the city reached its peak glory in the 12th Century under Kings Suryavarman II and Jayavarman VII . The most beautiful and most famous monument in the city, Angkor Wat, lies about one kilometer south of the Royal town of Angkor Thom which was founded by Jayavarman VII. The Temple of Angkor Wat was dedicated to the Hindu God Vishnu by King Suryavarman II, who reigned between AD 1131 and 1150. The Temple was constructed over a period of 30 years, and illustrates some of the most beautiful examples of Khmer and Hindu art. Covering an area of about 81 hectares, the complex consists of five towers, which are presently shown on the Cambodian national flag. These towers are believed to represent the five peaks of Mount Meru, the Home of Gods and Center of the Hindu Universe. Angkor Wat features the longest continuous bas-relief in the world, which runs along the outer gallery walls, narrating stories from Hindu Mythology. With the decline of the Ancient Khmer Empire, Angkor Wat was turned into a Buddhist Temple and was continuously maintained, which helped its preservation. In 1992, the UNESCO World Heritage Committee declared the monument, and the whole city of Angkor, a World Heritage Site . See the enlarged image of the temple by clicking on the picture above.

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Hindu Temple Kampuchia (Cambodia)

Bhajans & Devotional Songs

admin — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 06:25:00 +0000

Pnduranga Vittala & Temple above Bhajan is a Hindu devotional song often known as Kirtan. It is of ancient origin and sung with utmost devotion to God. Bha in the word Bhajan means that which is bhaavyam (sacred or holy), that Atma Tatwa (Principle of Atma) which is divyam (self-effulgent). The letters Ja in the word bhajan connotes japa (chanting of the Lord’s name). Bhajan literally means chanting the sacred name of Lord with utmost devotion. This act of singing with devotion makes one feel closer to true self (atma or jeeva) or to God (Brahma or Ishwara). In other words, Rasanam Lakshanam Bhajanam, acts which are performed for the purpose of pleasing God also known as Bhajans. Such devotional form of singing is heavenly to human ears and truly divine. Bhajans have been deep rooted in Indian tradition than anything else. They are simple soulful songs expressing undying love for God, a complete submission to Him through singing. This is one of the constituents of Bhakti for Haridasa to acquire the highest level in devotion (The other being Faith). These songs can be for a single God/Goddess, or any number of divinities, sometimes featuring several names and aspects of the chosen deity (esp in case of Ashtottarams and Sahasranamas). The music based on ragas and talas of Indian Classical Music played on Veena, Sarangi Venu (Flute), Mridanga (Tabla) or any traditional Indian instrument. The Sikh Scripture, however, contains 31 ragas and 17 talas which form the basis for Bhajan (Kirtan) music compositions. Bhajans can be seen in as old as Sama Veda, third Veda in Hindu scriptures. They have a very easy flow and their colloquial renderings differentiate them from the Shlokas (which for most people are much difficult to utter). They usually are sung in group by devotees, with one or more lead singers. The theme for a Bhajan is based on lives of Gods, their preachings, preachings of saints, glories of Gods and descriptions. Tunes are often fixed and words and phrases are repeated through out the bhajan. Bhajans have come a long way from when they were introduced first in Sama Veda. Types of Bhajans: Bhajans are typically classified into the following. There is no basic criteria for definign these types, but just the way they have been either formed or sung or who sang them. 1) Suprabhata Bhajans: Bhajans that are sung in the praise of Lord early morning to wakeup the Lord. Suprabhatam for Sri Ramakrishna,Sri Panduranga at pandharpur,Sri Kashi Visshwanath etc. are some good examples for Suprabhata Bhajan. 2) Avarohana Bhajans: Bhajans that are song in a descending order of the swaras (notes) in the early morning come under this category. Bhajagovindam sung in praise of Lord Venkateshwara is one good example for such Bhajans. 3) Aarohana Bhajans: Bhajans sung in ascending order of swaras (or notes) mostly during the evening or close to night are placed under this category. Shej Arathi sung for Shirdi Saibaba is a good example for Aarohana Bhajan. 4) Haridas Kitran: A well-known bhajan form is Haridas Kirtan where the bhajans are story-lined and revolve around the Gods and Godesses. 5) Sampradaya Bhajans: Also known as Dakshina Bharatha Sampradaya Bhajana is famous mainly in South India. Its a collection of Keertanas and Namavalis in a specific order which was evolved mainly by Sri Marudhanallur Sadguru Swamigal, Sri Pudukottai Gopala Krishna Bhagavathar, the trinity gurus for Sampradaya Bhajans. Sringeri Bhajans: A form of bhajan popularly known as Jyothirbhan is another form of Bhajan which has been uplifted from past 50 years by Sr. R. V. Krishnabhat in Bangalore. These bhajans have a flavor of classical raga and touch of tala perfection. They also have a mix of modern bhajans, kirtans and traditional bhajans. 6) Shyama Sangeet/Kali Kirtan: Shyama Sangeet is a genre of Bengali devotional songs dedicated to the Mother Shyama or Kali. It is also known as Shaktagiti. Shyama Sangeet appeals to the common man because it is a musical representation of the relationship of eternal and sublime love and care between the mother and her child. It is free of the common rituals of worship and also the esoteric practice of the Tantra.In modern times both Rabindranath Tagore and Kazi Nazrul Islam have composed poems of Shyama Sangeet genre. The term ‘Shyama’ refers to the skin color of Kali (usually depicted in black or deep blue.) Literally, it means dusky (or wheatish). Shyamasangeet can be divided into two streams: devotional or metaphysical and Umasangit, Agamani or Vijaya songs. The first category of songs is inspired by devotion and spiritual thoughts. The second category which is based on themes of daily family matters or social events, is known as Padavali, Umasangit, Agamani or Vijaya songs. Shyama Sangeet conceptualizes Goddess Kali as a loving human mother and the singer is longing for The Mother’s love. The songs have become popular not only for it’s devotional side, but also for it’s human appeal. The theme and occasion of Āgāmanī and Vijayā songs are as follows. Umā or Gaurī, daughter of Himālaya and Menakā, was married to Śiva, the Lord of Kailāsa. The Goddess Durga comes to see her parents from her in laws every year. The goddess is portrayed here as an ordinary girl living far away from her mother and feels joyous to come back home after a long stay at her in laws’ place. These songs too are highly popular because of their human appeal and as they are easily identifiable with any married girl living far away from their parents.

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Bhajans & Devotional Songs

Indian Groom’s Party goes To The Gufa Hindu Marriage/Wedding In Haidakhan BABAji Ashram India 2

admin — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 05:13:11 +0000

The last day of Navaratri is traditionally known as “The Wedding Day” This was filmed on 15 April 2008 it was the celebration of the Spiritual Marriage of Two Western devotees Anita & Lambodhar. Here the Groom’s party starts their journey across the riverbed to the gufa side the music gets louder and the party gets bigger as it proceeds!You can follow the festivites in video #3.

Haidakhan Kids/Children Sing HANUMAN CHALISA Babaji Ashram India

admin — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 09:51:25 +0000

Here some of the Local kids in Haidakhan sing The Hanuman Chalisa, or attempt to…Only two of them will make through to the end Everybody has too much fun when theres a camera on, well that’s not entirely true, the playhouse gang is always having fun camera or not !!! This was 4 June 2008