tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2441025735733644712024-03-13T17:05:32.828+05:30Expressions Of my ExperiencesMeghanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16145965353983767833noreply@blogger.comBlogger91125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-244102573573364471.post-17805671971607818872010-06-11T13:41:00.000+05:302010-06-11T13:41:38.282+05:30Colorful streets of India....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/TBHtCOBHCSI/AAAAAAAAEpc/lvT9O6oCuWw/s1600/1724686619_e159da1dc0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/TBHtCOBHCSI/AAAAAAAAEpc/lvT9O6oCuWw/s320/1724686619_e159da1dc0.jpg" /></a></div><br />
India has always been exalted and remembered fondly as the country of colors. Color is the most important element of India. From bright colorful clothes to beautiful and creative paintings, pottery and handicrafts. From mouth watering Indian cuisines to the seasons and festivals, it all reflects the distinctive and rich culture and colorful spirit of the people of India. In India, the color red represents something quite different: Purity. That’s contrary to Western cultures where the color white is used to symbolize purity. <br />
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Red also stands for purity and is the preferred color for a bride's garment. Indian brides traditionally wear red gowns and once married their foreheads are adorned with a red dot or tikka, the symbol of commitment. Because the wedding represents the beginning of a union of two individuals, the color red also symbolizes fertility and prosperity. Red is dynamic and constantly breathing fire in the eyes of the beholder. It incites fear and is the color associated with one of the most revered goddesses in Hindu mythology - Durga. Her fiery image is enhanced by her red tongue and almost red eyes.<br />
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The color green represents the harvest or a new beginning and, as in America, green is symbolic of nature. In India green is also the color used to honor Islam.<br />
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White is the absence of color, and is the only color widows are allowed to wear. It is the acceptable color at funerals and ceremonies that mark death in the family. It reflects the basic quality of the color itself, in principle; white, as a color, repels all light and colors and therefore, when a widow wears white, she disconnects herself from the pleasures and luxuries of active and normal participation in society and life around her. <br />
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Turmeric, for instance, while being used for cooking in both the north and the south, is also used in ceremonies offering prayers and marriages. Yellow symbolizes sanctity and is an essential herbal ingredient applied on the body and face by women in the sub continent<br />
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Black in India has connotations with lack of desirability, evil, negativity, and inertia. It represents anger and darkness and is associated with the absence of energy, barrenness, and death. Black is used as a representation of evil and is often used to ward off evil.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/TBHtGkaxJvI/AAAAAAAAEpk/Og7you2OSfY/s1600/h06_18255903.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/TBHtGkaxJvI/AAAAAAAAEpk/Og7you2OSfY/s320/h06_18255903.jpg" /></a></div><br />
The colors of India have mesmerized rulers, outsiders, and visitors - perhaps more so because of the stories and legends that bind its people, its culture, and its beliefs. The "rani" pink of mystical Rajasthan, the pastel hues of southern India, the joyous, bright hues of the northern frontier, and the balmy bright colors of the east offer a kaleidoscopic insight into an almost perfect blend of history and modernism. <br />
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The color blue, for instance, is associated with Lord Krishna, perhaps one of the most favored gods in India. And, as is obvious for any agricultural economy.<br />
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In India, a festivals of colors if celebrated named as Holi(<a href="http://meghanaunleashed.blogspot.com/2009/07/holi-festival-of-spring-scientific.html">http://meghanaunleashed.blogspot.com/2009/07/holi-festival-of-spring-scientific.html</a>). Also Rangloi (<a href="http://meghanaunleashed.blogspot.com/2009/06/rangoli-beautiful-collage-of-colors.html">http://meghanaunleashed.blogspot.com/2009/06/rangoli-beautiful-collage-of-colors.html</a>) a collage of colors is made on festivals to decorate the houses.Meghanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16145965353983767833noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-244102573573364471.post-39671867333067791582010-06-02T15:16:00.001+05:302010-06-02T15:20:41.893+05:30Some tips for becoming a ' Smart Household Manager'<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/TAYoX1JJ0JI/AAAAAAAAEpU/ttPeQX0UeHg/s1600/16fa5838b5680496_workingmom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/TAYoX1JJ0JI/AAAAAAAAEpU/ttPeQX0UeHg/s320/16fa5838b5680496_workingmom.jpg" /></a></div>Women have multiple roles to play in life, specially when a woman gets married and she also has a career. As and when you move ahead in life your roles and responsibility in career as well as family keeps on increasing. This is the time when a woman needs to become a 'Smart household Manager '.Also mums who are at home are busy in <strong>managing the lives of everyone at home</strong>; that no easy task. From my personal experience I would like to share few tips to become a Smart household manager. Some of my suggestion would hold true in Indian context only.<br />
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• The biggest mistake that stay-at-home moms make is <strong>not creating a schedule for the home</strong>. This means a schedule of activities for the kids that are home with you as well as a schedule for when you're going to get things done. Having no structure makes you put everything off until the last minute which creates stress. So sit down and make an actual schedule of what activities are going to happen when in your home on a daily, weekly and monthly basis. (Daily means knowing when everyone eats lunch, has nap time, play outside. Weekly is the days that you do laundry, run errands, attend play groups. Monthly is paying bills, planning holidays, etc.)<br />
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• Give <strong>responsibility to everyone else in the house</strong>. Just because you're the stay at home mom doesn't mean that you need to do it all yourself. Your kids should have chores because it helps build a sense of responsibility and the skills that they'll need to be adults. Do give some responsibilities to your spouse also.<br />
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• Try and save time from some of the activities in the house and take help from maids. Mainly on those work which are <strong>monotonous</strong> i.e. cleaning the house, dishes etc. You can use this saved time with your kids or in your personal grooming.<br />
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• If you are <strong>working then don't not hesitate to invest some amount of your salary in employing maids.</strong> Always remember that you by investing a small amount of money in getting HELP you can ensure a smooth and a stress free working of your house.<br />
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• In kitchen try and avoid investing time in chopping vegetables or making dough, cleaning kitchen table take HELP in this work and invest this time in making delicious and variety food for your family.<br />
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• Plan the menu of the week on weekends so that you can arrange , buy all groceries accordingly. That will save your time in last minute rush and give you a peace when your are at your work place<br />
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• Ironing clothes, daily cleaning, laundry are such activities that can be outsourced to a maid. But remember to be a Smart Manger and keep your eyes and ears open.<br />
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• If you have a bigger family, then you should take help in making chapattis or roti. This work once explained to the maid can be taken care. Only it requires your timely supervision.<br />
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• <strong>Do not try to be a perfectionist</strong> in your daily household work.<br />
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• Last but not the least, remember every woman has a <strong>right to look beautiful so don't not forget to devote some time in your personal care.</strong><br />
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<strong>To effectively manage your home, you just need some basic organizational skills and the willingness to give yourself the credit you deserve</strong>. Take your role as home manager seriously and it'll run more smoothly, letting you enjoy it more. And everything will still get done!Meghanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16145965353983767833noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-244102573573364471.post-71825266343010333402010-02-07T09:21:00.004+05:302010-02-07T09:36:19.980+05:30Groundnut Chutney<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/S245kL_37xI/AAAAAAAAEfk/4X8Sy2_cHXE/s1600-h/IMG_0951.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/S245kL_37xI/AAAAAAAAEfk/4X8Sy2_cHXE/s200/IMG_0951.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435345094141538066" /></a><br />An easy to prepare dish which will add taste to your meals, snacks.I have posted some more <span style="font-weight:bold;">chutney recipes like mint mango chutney,tomato chutney in my older posts.</span><br /><br />Category Side dish <br />Region All of India <br />Also Called Several names (depending upon the region)<br />Descriptive English Name Groundnut chutney<br />Served Hot parthas, snacks & a side dish with main course<br />Cooking Time 5-6 Min<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Ingredients</span><br /><br />• ½ Cup Roasted groundnuts<br />• 2-3 Garlic pieces <br />• 4-5 green chili<br />• 175 -200 gms Coriander with tender stems <br />• Salt to taste<br />• ½ Tbsp Red chili powder<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Method</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/S245kh1eV8I/AAAAAAAAEfs/QWj0myvZYMU/s1600-h/IMG_0949.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/S245kh1eV8I/AAAAAAAAEfs/QWj0myvZYMU/s200/IMG_0949.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5435345100003497922" /></a><br /><br />Wash Coriander in fresh water. Blend all ingredients together and <span style="font-weight:bold;">make sure you do not blend very fine. </span>Coarse groundnuts will give a very good taste.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Smart tips</span><br /><br />You can make chutney once in three days & store it air tight container in your refrigerator.Meghanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16145965353983767833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-244102573573364471.post-76210462369433343872010-02-05T10:27:00.003+05:302010-02-05T10:34:36.943+05:30Bagh Print –Originates from Heart Of India Madhya Pradesh.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/S2ulyBCjboI/AAAAAAAAEfU/pzw9MLq1RPo/s1600-h/2945347062_7204b994fd.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/S2ulyBCjboI/AAAAAAAAEfU/pzw9MLq1RPo/s200/2945347062_7204b994fd.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434619654043823746" /></a><br />Bagh, which lends its name to the Bagh prints is a small tribal town in Dhar district of Madhya Pradesh. The khatri community, who comprise the 'chhipas' or printers came here about 400 years ago from Larkana is Sind which is famous for its Ajrak prints. These are created by a community of printers called 'Chheepa' derived from the Hindi word "chhapna" meaning printing. A wide range of products are now available made from Bagh printed fabric - be it ladies suits, saris, dress material, dupatta, bed-covers, pillow covers etc. one can find all. Bagh prints have unique hand block printing, printed using vegetable dyes.<br /><br />Traditionally, fabric used was cotton, but now saw tassar, crepe, and silk are being used with excellent results. Bagh layouts are dramatic with use of black and red alternately on a white background. Production process is painstaking and manual. <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/S2ulyRpKn_I/AAAAAAAAEfc/_zm0YTW3AEQ/s1600-h/23-68-large.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/S2ulyRpKn_I/AAAAAAAAEfc/_zm0YTW3AEQ/s200/23-68-large.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434619658500743154" /></a> dyers of Bagh have perfected the ancient technique of hand block printing with vegetable dyes unique to this place. Bagh prints are today exported in large quantities. The designs are exclusive to Bagh & so are the vegetable dyes. These dyes are superior to chemical dyes in every respect. They leave no harmful effects. They are biodegradable & eco-friendly. And, they improve with each wash in shine & color.<br /> <br />Bagh Print in cotton fabric is one my all time favorite.Meghanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16145965353983767833noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-244102573573364471.post-66657111131561560682010-01-26T14:57:00.004+05:302010-01-27T03:34:46.561+05:30Top 5 Cheating husbands of Bollywood<span style="font-weight:bold;">Aamir Khan </span>–One of the finest actor of Bollywood, who believes in the philosophy of ‘One film at a time ‘ proposed Reena when he just turned 21 years of age and she accepted.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/S162pvpcVwI/AAAAAAAAEfM/qV316kyuyf4/s1600-h/m3.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 156px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/S162pvpcVwI/AAAAAAAAEfM/qV316kyuyf4/s200/m3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430979028936578818" /></a> The fact that Reena hailed from a Hindu family while Aamir was a devout Islamic caused enough concern for the family who objected to their marriage. So, they eloped, got married and returned to their homes. The secret remained for five months until one fine day Reena had to disclose the news to her family. It was in the year 1986 that the duo got married in public and began living together. After sixteen year of married life and after having two kids Aamir divorced Reena in 2002.Aamir fell in love with Assistant director of film ‘Lagan’ and and re-married in 2005.Between 2002 and 2005, the shocking claim that British writer Jessica Hines had produced a love child called Jaan Harry Hines with Aamir in 2003.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Boney Kapoor</span> –Boney Kapoor first wife Mona extended shelter to Sridvei in the time of need ,<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/S162ocLWYFI/AAAAAAAAEes/5UgomKWzn2I/s1600-h/boney-kapoor-sridevi.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 186px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/S162ocLWYFI/AAAAAAAAEes/5UgomKWzn2I/s200/boney-kapoor-sridevi.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430979006530216018" /></a><br />she never knew that her hospitality will be thanked by sridevi by taking her husband away. Boney kapoor and Sridevi’s affair bloomed right under the nose of Mona and later Sridevi became pregnant when the affair of Boney Kapoor and Sridevi was revealed. Later the couple tied knot<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Dharmendra</span> –Dream girl Hemalini fell in love with the He-Man of Bollywood. When Hemalini and Dharmendra ‘s affair started,<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/S162osWsOiI/AAAAAAAAEe0/I_U1o0BTTBM/s1600-h/dharmendra-hema-malini.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 124px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/S162osWsOiI/AAAAAAAAEe0/I_U1o0BTTBM/s200/dharmendra-hema-malini.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430979010872752674" /></a> that time Dharmendra was the father of four children.Dharemdra converted to Islam to marry the dream girl,as under Hindu law it’s not permissible to have two wives.He wanted to keep his first wife Prakash Kaur so he took this step of conversion to Islam.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Kamal Hassan</span>-If you marry a man who cheats on his wife, you'll be married to a man who cheats on his wife. That's the lesson Sarika must have learnt from her life. Kamal cheated on Vani Ganpathy, his first wife, with Sarika and after a painful divorce<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/S162pfdDFtI/AAAAAAAAEfE/7B7WsBq6Cek/s1600-h/kamalwifesarikaold.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 129px; height: 86px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/S162pfdDFtI/AAAAAAAAEfE/7B7WsBq6Cek/s200/kamalwifesarikaold.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430979024589625042" /></a> Sarika got married to Kamal thinking hers would be a happily-ever-after story. Little did she know years later Kamal would cheat on her with someone else. His extra-marital affair with actress Simran Bagga resulted in Sarika filing for a divorce. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Saif Ali Khan</span>- Saif married Amrita Singh ,<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/S162pPGMUKI/AAAAAAAAEe8/YncyslxdqHA/s1600-h/Saif_Ali_Khan___Amrita_Singh_wedding__pictures.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 196px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/S162pPGMUKI/AAAAAAAAEe8/YncyslxdqHA/s200/Saif_Ali_Khan___Amrita_Singh_wedding__pictures.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5430979020198793378" /></a> separated from her after thirteen years of married life and two kids. His Italian girlfriend Rosa, who was the main cause for his walking out on wife Amrita in the first place. Later, Saif and Rosa had a breakof and now a days Saif Ali Khan is dating a Bollywood actress Kareen Kapoor.Kareen Kapoor is the granddaughter of Late Raj Kapoor.Meghanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16145965353983767833noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-244102573573364471.post-47552646796789980162010-01-20T07:41:00.001+05:302010-01-20T07:45:31.044+05:30SabuDana Kichdi<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/S1ZnA3_b-NI/AAAAAAAAEdE/IVMeHzYcdQM/s1600-h/sabu+dana.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/S1ZnA3_b-NI/AAAAAAAAEdE/IVMeHzYcdQM/s200/sabu+dana.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5428639665569396946" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">A delicious breakfast and good dish for Upvas (Fast)<br /></span><br />Category Snack<br />Region All of India, more popular in western India<br />Also Called Sabu Dana Kichdi (depending upon the region)<br />Descriptive English Name <br />Served with Curd<br />Serves 4<br />Cooking Time 20min<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Ingredients<br /></span><br />• 1 Cup Sabudana (Preferably big ones)<br />• 1 Boiled and peeled potato <br />• 1Tbsp Jeera (Cumin seeds)<br />• ½ cup roasted crushed groundnuts (coarse)<br />• 3-4 green chili<br />• 1/2 tsp Red chili <br />• Finely chopped Coriander<br />• 1 tbsp Lime Juice<br />• 1 Tbsp Oil<br />• Salt to taste or Sendhava salt if preparing for fast<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Method</span><br /><br />Wash sabudana in water, drain the water and let it soak for 3-4 hours. Chop the boiled potatoes in cubes. Heat the oil in a pan and add cumin seeds along with green chili. Let them splutter. Now add chopped potatoes and let it turn golden brown. Now add crushed groundnuts along with salt and red chili powder and stir well. Next, add Sabudana and make sure there should be NO water in it. Cook for 5-7 min Once cooked add lime juice and coriander leaves. Serve hot with curd.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Smart tips:</span><br /><br />After adding Sabudana DO NOT cover the lid of the pan otherwise it might turn sticky.Meghanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16145965353983767833noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-244102573573364471.post-12801280099871033762010-01-16T06:25:00.004+05:302010-01-16T06:33:20.079+05:30Naga Sadhus –The Holy Men Of India<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/S1EPOl-rfTI/AAAAAAAAEcM/xry6zce4p50/s1600-h/NagaSadhus2.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 131px; height: 200px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/S1EPOl-rfTI/AAAAAAAAEcM/xry6zce4p50/s200/NagaSadhus2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5427135769345752370" /></a><br />Maha Kumbh Mela of Haridwar 2010 would again witness the Naga Sadhus coming for a holy dip in Ganges, And, <span style="font-weight:bold;">Naga Sadhus have always drawn attention of Western media, so through this post I would like to throw some light on these holy men of India.</span><br /><br />Naga sadhus are a <span style="font-weight:bold;">large and a prominent Shaiva sect, who have existed since the prehistoric past. The Naga sect is subdivided into Akharas, i.e. 'regiments', like an army.</span> Their displays of weaponry -- sticks, spears, swords and especially the trident -- have a mostly symbolic function. Among the Nagas are many sadhus who walk about naked. <span style="font-weight:bold;">High up in the icy Himalayas,</span> but naked all the same, Bhola Giri Nagababa blows the serpentine horn, called nagphani, or 'cobra-hood’, producing one piercing note. This instrument is related to the cobra (naga), the intimate companion of Lord Shiva, always coiled around his neck.<br /><br />In their nakedness they do not emanate sexuality. On the contrary, they control, inhibit the sexual 'vibrations', retaining its energy so it can be mystically transformed into psychic and spiritual power. The identification feature of Naga Sadhus include being naked with long hairs knotted with different metals and body smeared with ashes. Not only this, one can see Naga Sadhus could be seen wearing beads of Rudraksha, believe to posses positive healing power according to Hindu mythology. Not just a few but you can witness Naga sadhus wearing thousand of Rudraksha beads and is believed that wearing Eleven thousand Rudrakhsa beads will help them attain the form of Lord Shankara or Lord Shiva.<br /><br />While you visit the akharas of Naga Sadhus, one can have a glance of these sadhus smoking “CHILUM” (Marijuana). The consumption of bhang is also considered to be a part of the rituals performed by Naga Sadhus. The sadhus hold the view that doing so will lead them to eternity or nirvana. Naga Sadhus belongs to different Akharas (which means camps) and each akharash have their own set of Naga Babas who are living this world in most unconventional way and follow their own set of religion and spiritual activities without caring about this world.<br /><br />Kumbh Mela marks the gathering of hundreds of Naga Sadhus, who live in relative isolation in mountains, caves and communes in the Himalayas and other regions of India. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Western media covering Kumbh mela has always misunderstood the Nagas Sadhu and have often called them Naked Hindu saints or naked holy men, but Nagas Sadhus don’t care what they are called. They are just representatives of Lord Shiva.</span>Meghanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16145965353983767833noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-244102573573364471.post-46771140449506016802010-01-15T07:17:00.003+05:302010-01-15T07:21:40.516+05:30Kumbh Mela – Largest Religious gathering in the world<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/S0_Jy7dgD-I/AAAAAAAAEcE/Bg50w5irGxk/s1600-h/kumbhmela-allahabad.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 143px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/S0_Jy7dgD-I/AAAAAAAAEcE/Bg50w5irGxk/s200/kumbhmela-allahabad.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426777952796807138" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Kumbh mela the world’s most massive act of faith. </span><span style="font-weight:bold;">Kumbha (Kumbha means pot) Mela (means fair) is a sacred Hindu pilgrimage.</span> The significance of the Kumbha Mela and the important role that it plays in the spirituality of India, it is helpful to know something about the background of the sacred Ganges River. <span style="font-weight:bold;">The devout believe that simply by bathing in the Ganges one is freed from their past sins (karma), and thus one becomes eligible for liberation from the cycle of birth and death.</span> According to astrological calculations, the Kumbha Mela is held every twelve years and begins on Makar Sankranti, the day when the sun and moon enter Capricorn and Jupiter enters Aries. <span style="font-weight:bold;">The astrological configuration on Makar Sankranti is called " Kumbha snana-yoga" and is considered to be especially auspicious, as it is said that the passage from Earth to the higher planets is open at that time, thus allowing the soul to easily attain the celestial world.</span> For such reasons it is understandable why the Kumbha Mela has become so popular among all classes of transcendentalists in India.<br /><br /> Maha Kumbh helds after <span style="font-weight:bold;">every twelve years, which is once in life time event, if some how your have missed maha kumbh than other option of similar significance is Ardh Kumbh which held after every 6 years. </span> Each twelve-year cycle includes the Maha (great) Kumbha Mela at Prayag, attended by millions of people, making it the largest pilgrimage gathering around the world. Kumbh Mela is held at the below locations.<br />• Prayag (near the city of Allahabad, in the state of Uttar Pradesh) at the confluence of three rivers Ganga (Ganges), Yamuna and Saraswati<br />• Haridwar (in the state of Uttar Pradesh) where the river Ganga enters the plains from Himalayas<br />• Ujjain (in Madhya Pradesh), on the banks of Ksipra river, and<br />• Nasik (in Maharashtra) on the banks of Godavari river.<br /><br />The observance of Kumbha Mela is based upon the following story: thousands of years ago, perhaps in the Vedic period, gods and demons made a temporary agreement to work together in obtaining amrita (the nectar of immortality) from the Milky Ocean, and to share this equally. However, when the Kumbha (pot) containing the amrita appeared, the demons ran away with the pot and were chased by the gods. For twelve days and twelve nights (equivalent to twelve human years) the gods and demons fought in the sky for the possession of this pot of amrita. It is said that during the battle, drops of <span style="font-weight:bold;">amrita fell on to four places : Prayag, Haridwar, Ujjain and Nasik. Thus, Kumbha mela is observed at these four locations where the nectar fell.</span><br /><br />Besides the Ganges, there are also two other sacred rivers located at Allahabad, the Yamuna and the Saraswati . The Yamuna, like the Ganges has its earthly origin in the Himalayas. The Saraswati, however, is a mystical river which has no physical form. It is believed that the Saraswati exists only on the ethereal or spiritual plane and is not visible to the human eye. This holy river is mentioned many times in India's sacred texts such as the Mahabharata and is said to be present at Allahabad where it joins the Yamuna and the Ganges.<br /><br />2010 is the year for Mahakumbh Mela at <span style="font-weight:bold;">Haridwar in 2010 from 14th January – 28th April. Haridwar is one of the four holy sit</span>es for Kumbh Mela and among the seven sacred cities of India. It is a city with enormous religious significance and a key pilgrimage town for the Hindus. So, this time let your heart soak in all the spirituality to the holy land of Haridwar in Kumbh Mela of 2010.As per media , Thousands of <span style="font-weight:bold;">naked and semi-clad Naga Sadhusor Indian Holy Men are using the Kumbh mela festival, the world's largest spiritual gathering, to campaign against global warming.</span>Meghanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16145965353983767833noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-244102573573364471.post-70520636274710286872010-01-14T08:36:00.003+05:302010-01-14T08:41:09.524+05:30Rudraksha Beads – A Gift of God To Mankind<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/S06Kq2DeTII/AAAAAAAAEbs/WrUfmW6AukQ/s1600-h/RudrakshaCategory.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/S06Kq2DeTII/AAAAAAAAEbs/WrUfmW6AukQ/s200/RudrakshaCategory.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426427069697248386" /></a><br />The rudraksha evergreen tree mainly found in Nepal, area of Gangetic plains in foothills of Himalayas to the south east Asia ,Indonesia,Guniea to Australia,Gaum and Hawaii. The seed of the Rudraksha tree (Elaeocarpus granitrus) holds a very special place in Hinduism, and is credited to possess mystical and divine properties. The Tears of Lord Siva that are Rudraksha, are the original Vedic Beads of Power worn by the Yogis of India and the Himalayas for thousands of years to maintain health and to gain self empowerment and fearless life on their path to Enlightenment and Liberation. T<span style="font-weight:bold;">he term Rudraksh basically refers to the tears of Lord Shiva.</span><br /><br />Lord Shiva meditated for several years for the wellbeing of all creatures. But, when he opened his eyes to see around, he saw people in pain. Lord Shiva could not see the sufferings and miseries of people and started shedding hot drops of tears. Mother Nature transformed the tears and gave birth to the Rudraksh trees. <span style="font-weight:bold;">The other names for Lord Shiva are Rudra and the Lord of tears. Rudra is a term used to refer one who relieves others from sufferings and pain.</span> For thousands of years, they have adorned the bodies of sages and saints leading a fearless life in far-flung frontiers seeking enlightenment and liberation.<br /><br />As per Hindu scriptures the devotees of Lord Shiva are usually given Rudraksha for peace. A person tends to become pure after wearing the Rudraksha beads. People are of the belief that, a person who offers food to the wearer of Rudraksha reaches Rudraloka i.e. the Loka or kingdom of Lord Rudra.It is believed that the wearer of Rudraksha invites the Goddess of wealth. By wearing Rudraska one can overcome untimely death and paves a way to harmony in life and controls stress level. It helps in awakening the <span style="font-weight:bold;">Kundilini or vital energies & propels the cosmic forces in one's favor.</span> Rudrakshas stimulate the mind, increase the intellect, improve the power of speech & oration. They also helps in acquiring the power of Intuition. People of high blood have been found benefitted from Rudraksha seeds.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/S06KsO3v5EI/AAAAAAAAEb8/UVzngqOQOPk/s1600-h/Nau-Nine-9-Mukhi-Rudraksha.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/S06KsO3v5EI/AAAAAAAAEb8/UVzngqOQOPk/s200/Nau-Nine-9-Mukhi-Rudraksha.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426427093538825282" /></a> R<span style="font-weight:bold;">udraskha is also worn to please the nine planets and it has great astrological importance</span>.<br />Rudraksha beads are classified on the basis of the number of “mukhis” – the clefts and furrows – they have on the surface. Each bead has a different effect on you, depending on the number of mukhis it has. These are vital from the astrological viewpoint, since it is believed that Rudrakshas of different mukhis please different planets.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/S06KrqOWJiI/AAAAAAAAEb0/gJTHukCTY94/s1600-h/tree_rudraksha1.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 189px; height: 200px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/S06KrqOWJiI/AAAAAAAAEb0/gJTHukCTY94/s200/tree_rudraksha1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5426427083701495330" /></a> The scriptures speak of 1 to 38 mukhis, but Rudrakshas of 1 to 14 mukhis are commonly found.<br /> Acquiring an authentic Rudraksha is a challenge in itself.<span style="font-weight:bold;"> A real Rudraksha bead will never float on water. Even if you boil a real Rudraksha in water for 6 hours, there would no effect on the bead. </span>A fake will easily disintegrate. A good Rudraksha bead will not be broken at any end. A ‘healthy’ bead should have well defined and natural corns and contours.Meghanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16145965353983767833noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-244102573573364471.post-84957957698806286892010-01-08T08:27:00.002+05:302010-01-08T08:32:51.087+05:30Mehndi – An Indian Bride is incomplete without Mehndi !<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/S0afbFMMzRI/AAAAAAAAEbg/XeGPqm8c3so/s1600-h/indian20bridal20henna202.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 143px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/S0afbFMMzRI/AAAAAAAAEbg/XeGPqm8c3so/s200/indian20bridal20henna202.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424198088812973330" /></a><br />Mehndi is an ancient traditional form of hand and feet decoration. It creates a deep crimson color that shines on the skin. Mehndi is closely connected to the tradition and culture of India.<span style="font-weight:bold;"> Mehndi is the application of Heena for the decoration of hand and feet mainly in south east Asia. </span>It's safe and painless since it does not require the skin to be pierced. It's completely natural and non-toxic. Mehndi is a symbol of prosperity and good fortune. It was believed that applying Mehndi to the hands and feet would keep off evil. Mehndi is particularly important during ceremonial occasions like weddings. A special day is allotted in a traditional Indian marriage for the application of henna on the bride, as well as family members and friends. Mehndi is one of the <span style="font-weight:bold;">sixteen adornments bestowed on a bride during Solah Shringar.</span><br /><br />The henna plant is common in India and is used in rural areas as a hedge. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Rural women may pick fresh mehndi leaves and prepare them for the application. However it is also sold in powder form. </span>The plant is prepared and made into a paste. Lemon juice is added to the paste to intensify its red color. Various shades of Henna are procured by mixing its paste with the leaves and fruit of other plants, such as indigo, tea, coffee, cloves and lemon. The finished paste is placed into a cone. During the process of laying out the design, the cone does not touch the skin, but rather, the henna is laid out onto the skin like a thread. The flow of the henna must be controlled in order to produce an even line. The thickness of this line determines the amount of die from the henna that penetrates the skin. After the henna design is laid out on the skin, a mixture of lemon and sugar is dabbed over the design to set it. The longer the design is left undisturbed, the deeper the color will be. Later the henna is removed by rubbing the hands together, revealing a reddish color where the henna touched the skin.<br /><br />Now Mehndi is becoming popular in west also. Many Hollywood celebrities have been seen with decoration of Mehndi on their hands and feet.Meghanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16145965353983767833noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-244102573573364471.post-66138796474873867602009-12-21T10:32:00.003+05:302009-12-21T10:39:29.435+05:30Myths & Facts About Hinduism<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Sy8CuD-RCOI/AAAAAAAAEK0/tFS0Zi7od-M/s1600-h/acne-myths-1.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 189px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Sy8CuD-RCOI/AAAAAAAAEK0/tFS0Zi7od-M/s200/acne-myths-1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417551867113703650" /></a><br />1) <span style="font-weight:bold;">Myth -Hindu’s Worship many Gods</span><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Fact -</span> It is a misconception amongst non-Hindus that Hindus worship millions of Gods. The truth is that according to Hinduism nothing but that one and only one ‘God’ (called Brahm by Hindus) exists. There can be millions and billions of manifestations of that God and during ‘His’ cosmic dance that ‘one self’ observes ‘His’ infinite manifestations. In simple words Hindus consider everything ‘living’ and ‘non-living’ as manifestation of ‘God’ and are therefore free to worship ‘God’ in any form. A Hindu can thus worship God in any of ‘His’ infinite manifestations (Sakara Brahm) or can worship a formless God (Nirakar Brahm).<br /><br />2) <span style="font-weight:bold;">Myth – All Hindus are vegetarian</span><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Fact</span> -Hindus teach vegetarianism as a way to live with a minimum of hurt to other beings. But in today's world not all Hindus are vegetarians. The rationale behind a vegetarian diet is to promote a physically, mentally and spiritually healthy lifestyle. However, there are no rigid rules concerning vegetarianism.<br />Vegetarians are more numerous in the South of India than in the North. This is because of the North's cooler climactic conditions and past Islamic influence. Priests and religious leaders are definitely vegetarian, so as to maintain a high level of purity and spiritual consciousness to fulfill their responsibilities, and to awaken the refined areas of their nature<br /><br />3) <span style="font-weight:bold;">Myth – Hindus are Idol Worshippers</span><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Fact</span> -Hindus do not worship a stone or metal "idol" as God. We worship God through the image. We invoke the presence of God from the higher, unseen worlds, into the image so that we can commune with Him and receive His blessings.<br />The stone or metal deity images in Hindu temples and shrines are not mere symbols of the Gods. They are the form through which their love, power and blessings flood forth into this world.<br />We may liken this mystery to our ability to communicate with others through the telephone. We do not talk to the telephone; rather we use it as a means of communication with another person. <br />Without the telephone, we could not converse across long distances; and without the sanctified icon in the temple, we cannot easily commune with the Deity. Divinity can also be invoked and felt in a sacred fire, or in a tree, or in the enlightened person of a satguru. In our temples, God is invoked in the sanctum by highly trained priests. Through the practice of yoga, or meditation, we invoke God inside ourself. Yoga means to yoke oneself to God within. The image or icon of worship is a focus for our prayers and devotions.<br /><br />4) <span style="font-weight:bold;">Myth –Hindus Practice Caste System</span><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Fact</span> -The present day caste system is one of the evils that had crept into Hindu society. It is more of a social problem then a religious. Caste system has no place in Hindu philosophy because as mentioned before this philosophy believes that nothing but that Brahm (God) exists. Everything including human being is manifestation of Brahm (God). And God can never have a lower or higher caste.<br />But since caste system is a reality of Indian society let us just examine how it came into existence:<br />Rig Veda recognizes that every human being has different capability. Some people are better in academics, other are good warriors, some are better in commerce and economics and still others are good craftsmen or manual workers. Any modern day scientist will testify that every individual has a different genetic makeup. This does not prevent a person born to athletic parents from becoming a doctor or a scientist. So according to Rig Veda people should recognize their capabilities and chose a profession according to that. An academician (Brahmin) is in no way superior to an artesian or manual laborer (Sudra). They are just different in their working capability. Caste was meant to be a guideline for people to choose their profession and was not meant to be a stigma attached to a person due to his birth. The present day caste system came into practice much later.<br />Just two examples should be sufficient to show that caste was not an evil stigma in ancient Hindu society as it is today in modern India –<br />1) Lord Krishna who is considered an incarnation of God by Hindus, was born in Yadu Vansha (considered a ‘backward caste’ now days). During his life Krishna was revered by all including so called ‘superior Brahmins and Kshatriyas’. He is worshipped in modern day India by all the castes.<br />2) Ramayana considered to be amongst the holiest of all holy books in Hindu religion was written by – Sage Valmiki. Valmiki was born in what is now day known as schedule caste family (lower caste). Ramayana occupies a place of prime importance in every Hindu family and all Hindus revere Sage Valmiki.<br />Needless to say that modern day leaders of Independent India have increased the divisions in Hindu society for their own political gains.<br /><br />5) <span style="font-weight:bold;">Myth – To become a Hindu, you have to be born as a Hindu.</span><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Fact</span> -Hinduism is a way of life, there is no formal conversion process. Anyone can become a Hindu, because to be a Hindu one has to just follow the Hindu way of life.<br /><br />6) <span style="font-weight:bold;">Myth – Hindu Women are suppressed</span><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Fact</span> -The role of women in Hinduism is often misunderstood. In Vedic times women and men were equal as far as education and religion was concerned. In ancient India, women occupied a very important position, in fact in some ways, a superior position to men. It is a culture whose only words for strength and power are feminine -<span style="font-weight:bold;">”Shakti</span>” means “power” and “strength.” All male power comes from the feminine.<br /><br />7) <span style="font-weight:bold;">Myth –Hinduism has lot many Rituals and superstition</span><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Fact </span>-Hinduism runs on value education and some rituals. These rituals are added from time to time and changeable. But these rituals convey a lot of meaning when deeply thought and understood. They are not compulsory for Hinduism; some follow, some don’t.<br /><br />Lastly to summarize, How Hinduism differs from other religions<br />• It is not based upon one particular founder.<br />• It is not based upon one particular book.<br />• It is not controlled by a central institution or authority such as a church or an association.<br />• It is not averse to examine and assimilate fundamentally diverse thoughts and beliefs into its system.<br />• It accepts other religions as various paths to salvation and does not favor organized attempts to convert people.<br />• It has been evolving continuously, through internal reforms and as a reaction to the threats and challenges.<br />• Hinduism is a way of life, more than a religion<br />• An attitude of understanding and tolerance is taught within the religion, where all religious teachings are not to be looked down upon and that no one way of worship should be considered better than another.Meghanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16145965353983767833noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-244102573573364471.post-6337401437535131522009-12-15T08:33:00.002+05:302009-12-15T08:37:40.446+05:30Why Hindu’s Burn the Dead Body ?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Syb8rgr2_YI/AAAAAAAAEKQ/Ed85SgiOagE/s1600-h/image009.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 199px; height: 200px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Syb8rgr2_YI/AAAAAAAAEKQ/Ed85SgiOagE/s200/image009.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415293426398068098" /></a><br />The last journey of a Hindu is known as the ‘Antyesti’ or Hindu Funeral rite, also known as ‘Antim Sansakar’. Antyeṣṭi rites are the final sacraments (saṃskāras) in a series that ideally begins at the moment of conception and is performed at each important stage of a man’s life. Upon death Hindu’s are not buried they are cremated as per the procedure detailed in scriptures.<br /><br />The reason why Hindu’s cremate is based on the belief that <span style="font-weight:bold;">Jiva’ or body is made up of five elements of nature, which needs to be returned to the source upon its death. Of them water, earth and fire belong to the body and come from this world, whereas the fifth element is the ether (fine matter) belongs to the domain of the subtle body and comes from the higher worlds. By cremating the body, the elements are rightfully returned to their respective spheres, while the subtle body along with the soul returns to the world beyond for the continuation of its afterlife</span>. Hindus also belief that when the soul departs from the world there are some pollutants which remains in the body. Irrespective he is far or near all the family members are polluted by the very process of death and remain for sometime till the soul completes its journey to the other world and till the family members are purified through rituals.Hindu's also believe the house where the corpse is kept and others who visit the house also get polluted and they also needs to be purified with bath and Ganga Jal (water of river ganges).Members of the deceased do not celebrate functions ad festivals as mark of respect.<br /><br />Cremation is however not the whole method of the disposal of the body,Childern below certain age are buried upon death. The body of the renouncer (sanyasi) is usually placed in the river, since its is customary for a sanyasi to undergo the symbolic act of cremation before taking up the life of renunciation. So a second cremation is not prescribed.Meghanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16145965353983767833noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-244102573573364471.post-61779658705678493702009-12-11T15:19:00.004+05:302009-12-11T15:30:15.192+05:30Dharma – A Six letter Complicated Word In Hinduism To Make Life Simpler<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SyIWRjP3m5I/AAAAAAAAEJw/Cadgyl5PsVo/s1600-h/dharma.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 198px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SyIWRjP3m5I/AAAAAAAAEJw/Cadgyl5PsVo/s200/dharma.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413914192828144530" /></a><br /><br />India is the home and abode of religions. It occupies the proud first place in religious devotion and godliness. It is famous for its Yogis and saints. The word Dharma comes from India, from Hindu philosophy. Hinduism describes Dharma as the natural universal laws whose observance enables humans to be contented and happy, and to save himself from degradation and suffering. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Dharma is the moral law combined with spiritual discipline that guides one's life. The purpose of Dharma is not only to attain a union of the soul with the supreme reality, it also suggests a code of conduct that is intended to secure both worldly joys and supreme happiness. </span>Regulation of daily life is supreme Dharma. It is the basis of Tapas or austerity. It leads to wealth, beauty, longevity and continuity of lineage. Evil conduct and immorality will lead to ill-fame, sorrow, disease and premature death. Dharma has its root in morality the controller of Dharma is God Himself.<br /><br />In order to achieve good karma it is important to live life according to dharma, what is right.<span style="font-weight:bold;"> Mathematically we can say Good Dharma =Good Karma. For explanation on Karma please read my earlier post</span> (The Law Of Karma –A Unique Contribution of India to the Worldhttp://meghanaunleashed.blogspot.com/2009/11/law-of-karma-unique-contribution-of.html) Through the practice of Dharma alone can you ever hope to achieve the crowning glory of all human endeavours, viz., <span style="font-weight:bold;">Moksha (liberation) which is the best and the highest of all desirable things.</span> For Hindus, correct performance of dharma has a favourable effect on their karma (fate), thus coming closer to the final goal of liberation from the cycle of reincarnation.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Dharma can be classified under two heads</span>:<br />Samanya or the general, universal Dharma<br />Visesha or the specific, personal Dharma.<br />1.Contentment, 2.forgiveness, 3.self-restraint, 4.non-stealing, 5.purity, 6.control of senses, 7.discrimination between right and wrong, as also between the real and the unreal, 8. spiritual knowledge, 9.truthfulness and 10.absence of anger come under the general or universal Dharma.<br />The rules of the castes and orders of life are specific Dharmas. These are the tenfold characteristics of Dharma according to Manu (In Hindu traditions, Manu is a title accorded to the progenitor of mankind.)<br />Dharma assumes various kinds: Sanatana Dharma (Eternal Law), Samanya Dharma (general duty), Visesha Dharma (special duty), Varnashrama Dharma (duties of caste and Order), Svadharma (one’s own duty), Yuga Dharma (duty of the age or period in history), Kula Dharma ((duty of family), Manava Dharma (duty of man), Purusha Dharma (duty of male), Stri Dharma (duty of female), Raja Dharma (duty of king), Praja Dharma (duty of subjects), Pravritti Dharma (duty in worldly life) and Nivritti Dharma (duty in spiritual life).<br /><br />If,you have read Mahabharata, the <span style="font-weight:bold;">Pandavas represent Dharma in life and the Kauravas represent Adharma</span>.<span style="font-weight:bold;">The four Asharams of life also have prescribed Dharma in all stages,details please read my earlier post The Four Ashrams Of Life –A Rational and a Scientific Approach of Life(http://meghanaunleashed.blogspot.com/2009/09/fours-ashrams-of-life-rational-and.html)</span><br /><br />Other religions, Buddhism, Jainism, Christianity, Sikhism, Zoroastrianism, Islam all lay stress on the concept of Dharma in their own ways. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Plato, Socrates, Aristotle, Kant, Swedenborg and Spinoza </span>are all striking examples in the interesting history of Western philosophy for the high pedestal on which they have placed morality, duty and righteousness, and adored them all as the only means to the attainment of the goal of life.Meghanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16145965353983767833noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-244102573573364471.post-35640702120662994712009-12-08T10:07:00.011+05:302009-12-08T13:41:08.765+05:30Influential Bahu (Daughter In Laws) and Betis (Daughters) of IndiaIndia is a society where the male is greatly revere. Women in Indian society are considered to be kitchen bee who is suppose to cook food do household chores. On the other hand the same Indian society women are believed to be the incarnation of Shakti.Historicial evidences illustrate that women power ruled the society and they even destroyed mighty rulers and powerful kingdoms.In Hindi language daughter is known as 'Beti' and daughter-in-law is known as 'Bahu'. Here in this post I would like show my gratitude to the most influential Bahu’s and Betis which hold offices in the domain of politics or government, others wield it the boardroom.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Sonia Gandhi</span> (Bahu) – An influential lady of the Indian politics, named the third most powerful woman in the world by Forbes magazine in the year 2004 and was ranked 6th in 2007. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Sx4Cqz-QC9I/AAAAAAAADsI/LRAZWfqBvWY/s1600-h/Sonia_Gandhi_1.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 166px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Sx4Cqz-QC9I/AAAAAAAADsI/LRAZWfqBvWY/s200/Sonia_Gandhi_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412766736674982866" /></a><br />She was also named among the Time 100 most influential people in the world for the years 2007 and 2008.She is the daughter in law of former prime minister Indra Gandhi and widow of former Prime Minister, of India Rajiv Gandhi.She was born in small a village of Italy. Sonia Gandhi was not, however, fond of the public life politics brought with it. Sonia Gandhi had a close relationship with her mother- in –law and she was a kind of personal assistant to the prime minister and traveled with her as she conducted the country's business. After the death of Rajiv’s brother Sanjay Gandhi, Rajiv became the political successor of his mother Indra Gandhi.<br />Sonia Gandhi wholeheartedly adopted her husband's homeland. She learned to speak some Hindi and cook Indian food, becoming a naturalized citizen in 1983. Once her husband entered politics, Sonia Gandhi began wearing traditional saris and stepped up her role as a traditional Indian wife. In 1991 her husband was killed by suicide bomber in an election campaign Sonia always hated politics and never wanted her husband to enter politics. Within days of her husband's death, Sonia Gandhi was asked to take his place as leader of the Congress Party. She refused. But year later in 1997 Sonia announced her intentions of campaigning for Congress party and in a very short time she became the political star of the country. Opposition leaders continued to chide Sonia Gandhi for her foreign - born status. Sonia Gandhi was such an anomaly that people flocked to see the Italian woman wearing an Indian sari who spoke Hindi with a foreign accent. In 2004, Hundreds of millions of voters had chosen her, however, despite her birth status. She refused to Prime minster post in spite of congress victory. Though she turned down the post of prime minister, Sonia Gandhi remained president of the Congress Party. An Italian born Bahu (Daughter-in-law) of Indra Gandhi has definitely made a mark in Indian politics.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Ekta Kapoor</span> (Beti) –Daughter Of famous actor Jeetandra and Shobha Kapoor is well know personality in Indian teleivison.Ekta is the creative director of Balaji telefilms<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Sx4DaxAitNI/AAAAAAAADsY/QeXXEhT1sTk/s1600-h/2006080701720101.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 168px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Sx4DaxAitNI/AAAAAAAADsY/QeXXEhT1sTk/s200/2006080701720101.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412767560513008850" /></a>.Her first TV show Hum Paanch was a hit on television but the turning point in her career was a TV show ‘Kyunki Saas Bhee Khabee Bahu thi ‘ and from then there has been no looking back in her career.She is also known as the Queen of Television industry. She has undoubtedly influenced the Indian television industry.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Indra Gandhi</span> (Beti )- India ‘s first and to date only female prime minster ,daughter of Pandit Jawarharlal Nehru. The dynamic personality of Indra Gandhi has left imprints on the minds of every Indian. It was the Indra era in India when India saw 1971 War with Pakistan,nuclear weapon program was started,Green revolution and emergency was imposed in India in her era.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Sx4DtzuiWFI/AAAAAAAADsg/Txye-M0PQpk/s1600-h/Indira+Gandhi.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 158px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Sx4DtzuiWFI/AAAAAAAADsg/Txye-M0PQpk/s200/Indira+Gandhi.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412767887660308562" /></a><br />Indra Gandhi completed her education in University of Oxford and in this stay at Europe and UK Indra met a young parsi man Feroz Gandhi.After returning to India Feroz and Indra got married.In 1942 Indra Gandhi played an active role in Quit India movement.In 1965 she was appointed as the fifth Prime Minster of India.It was in 1977 when Indra Gandhi lost the election but again in 1980 she led congress to victory and once again became the prime minster of India.She continued to hold this position till her assassination in 1984.<br />This daughter of India will be remembered till centuries. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Sania Miraz</span> (Beti)- This young, gorgeous, beautiful daughter of India has brought India pride in field of sports. This young tennis player born in 1986,and was awarded Padma Shri in 2006,India fourth highest honor, for her achievements in Tennis.<br />Sania is the daughter of sports journalist Imran Mirza and mother Nasima. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Sx4D8iBFcuI/AAAAAAAADso/v1KNKsizGIM/s1600-h/sania-mirza-264.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Sx4D8iBFcuI/AAAAAAAADso/v1KNKsizGIM/s200/sania-mirza-264.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412768140604306146" /></a><br /> She has been brought up in religious Muslim Family.She made her debut in 2003 in India Fed Cup Team and from then there has been no looking back in her Tennis career.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Priyanka Vadra</span>(Beti) – The graceful Priyanka is the daughter of Rajiv Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi.She is the grand-daughter of Nehru- Gandhi family. Her ambiguous role in politics has been remarkable. She has been campaigning for Congress party but have been saying that she has little interest in politics. She is good organizer and is the chief political advisor of her mother Sonia Gandhi, who is the Congress President.<br />Priyanka is married to Robert Vadra whom she met at Ottavio Quattrocchi's house.Priyanka and Robert Vadra are blessed with two children.Priyanka’s appearance in political campaigns has brought a new era for Congress Party in India.She pulls the crowd with grace and with her highly organized attitude.<br />People of India love this beti of India very much.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Ashiwarya Rai</span> (Beti) – Born in 1973,this beauty of India has brought fame and glory to India in the area of Beauty and brain.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Sx4DIF_zjAI/AAAAAAAADsQ/H3grW_DsqHo/s1600-h/C56541_Aishwarya-Rai-Posters.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 158px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Sx4DIF_zjAI/AAAAAAAADsQ/H3grW_DsqHo/s200/C56541_Aishwarya-Rai-Posters.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412767239729548290" /></a>She won the Miss World tittle in 1994,later she moved to acting career.And her acting career has also reached to heights of glory in India as well as abroad. Ashiwarya has been a very popular famous face of Indian cinema globally.She is married to Abhishekh Bachchan the son of Superstar Amitabh Bachachan.She is balancing her family and career so well that in coming year she would become one of the most influential Bahu.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Sushimta Sen</span> (Beti) – Sushmita the first Indian woman to be crowned Miss Universe in 1994.Born in Hindu Bengali family,she is the daughter of Shubeer Sen former Indian Air Force Wing Commander and<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Sx4EQbKCseI/AAAAAAAADsw/X1WRPMPughI/s1600-h/sushmita_sen_007.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 154px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Sx4EQbKCseI/AAAAAAAADsw/X1WRPMPughI/s200/sushmita_sen_007.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5412768482360209890" /></a><br /> mother Subhra Sen.After winning the beauty crown of Miss Universe,Sushimta made her appearance in Bollywoood thorugh film Dastak.Apart from film and fashion industry Sushmita has been a Indian Ambassador in the world.She has devoted herself to many social causes.<br /><br />The list of Influentail Bahu's and Betis of India is not so small,would write about some more my coming posts.Meghanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16145965353983767833noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-244102573573364471.post-19020927613049555502009-11-20T16:24:00.004+05:302009-11-20T17:12:49.823+05:30The Indian Attire of Men…Till now I have been writing lot about Indian women attire. In India not only women but also men have different attires. Although, now a days mostly men wear western outfits ie.trouser or jeans and shirt. But these are not a part of Indian culture. The Indian men's traditional attire consists of the kurta and pajama, dhoti, lungi and other dresses. Worn on both formal and informal occasions, kurta and pajama are quite popular dress of Indian men. A sherwani is generally wear for special occasions. Usually the lungi is worn in many parts of India like south india, but depending on the social practices of the region it may be restricted to indoor-wear.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Kurta Pajama</span> -Kurta is a loose collarless shirt worn by both men and women. Generally, it’s worn with pajamas, a shalwar, or churidars.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SwZ2fIeeKHI/AAAAAAAADrY/oCCu1YKd3mI/s1600/Men_2.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SwZ2fIeeKHI/AAAAAAAADrY/oCCu1YKd3mI/s200/Men_2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5406138679928170610" /></a> This ensemble also includes a bandi (short jacket or waistcoat) and a dupatta.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Lungi</span> –The custom of wearing lungis varies by state. Lungi is generally woven from cotton and is available in many designs, patterns and colors. ,the most commonly worn are those with checks or the ones in a single dark hue. In southern state Kerala Lungi is worn as a casual dress. <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SwZ2eTWgKaI/AAAAAAAADrI/P4IDLwn2IVI/s1600/Men.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 94px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SwZ2eTWgKaI/AAAAAAAADrI/P4IDLwn2IVI/s200/Men.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5406138665667668386" /></a><br />Lungi in plain white hue is called a Mundu. For ceremonial occasions like weddings, Mundus often bear golden embroidery, known as kasavu.In Karnataka colored lungi is called mundas whereas plain white cloth smilar to lungi is called a panche generally used for formal ceremonies.In the state of Tamil Naidu lungi’s are worn in similar way as Kerala and they are called Kaili or Saaram.In the eastern state of West Bengal and Bhiar Lungi are primiraily home wear of men of all classes of the society.In northern state of Punjab lungis are worn both by men and women.<br />Not only India,lungis are worn in Bangladesh,Sri Lanka,Myanmar,Indonesia,Malaysia,Singapore,the Horn of Africa and the Arabian Pensuila. Mostly lungis are popular in heat and humidity prone areas.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Dhoti</span>- Dhotis are traditional Indian wear that is quite popular among rural men. Dhotis flaunt one’s eminent status and love for Indian culture. Great men like Mahatma Gandhi used to wear dhoti.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SwZ2eq8mC9I/AAAAAAAADrQ/et6ArQL2A-k/s1600/Men_1.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 100px; height: 200px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SwZ2eq8mC9I/AAAAAAAADrQ/et6ArQL2A-k/s200/Men_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5406138672001453010" /></a> Even today Indian men wear dhoti as ethnic attire It is a rectangular piece of unstitched cloth, usually around 7 yards long, wrapped around the waist and the legs, and knotted at the waist. The Dhotī or Doti in Hindi, called Dhotiyu in Gujarati, Suriya in Assamese, Vaytti or Veshti in Tamil, Dhuti in Bangla, Dhoti or Kachche Panche in Kannada, Dhotar, Angostar, Aad-neschey or Pudve in Konkani, mundu in Malayalam, Dhotar in Marathi, Laacha in Punjabi and Pancha in Telugu.Dhoti is generally worn with Kurta's.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Sherwani</span> -The word Sherwani immediately crops up the picture of India's first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, as it used to be his favorite attire.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SwZ2fZLOncI/AAAAAAAADrg/eDSAZCdRzaM/s1600/Men_3.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SwZ2fZLOncI/AAAAAAAADrg/eDSAZCdRzaM/s200/Men_3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5406138684410863042" /></a> Sherwani is a long coat resembling achkan in styling. It is buttoned upto the collar and lengthwise it is usually below the knee. It is supposed to be worn over a kurta and a churidar, or khara pajama or a salwar and at times, even a dhoti. A part of men's clothing in India, the traditional Sherwani happens to be an ultimate wedding and party attire. The origin of sherwani can be traced back in Central Asia during the times when it was the dress code of the Turkish and Persian nobles in the Delhi Sultanate and Mughal Empire. In the late eighteenth century, almost every man wore sherwani, as this attire did not restrict itself only to the nobles, but became the traditional dress of common man. Sherwani is the national dress of men in Pakistan. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Achkan</span> –The Achkan is a full sleeved tunic with a high round neck ,length which falls 3-5 cms above the knee.It has a full front opening in the center and is fastened with buttons and button holes.It is on the smilar pattern of Sherwani.The Sherwani differs from Achkan in length and flares.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Angarakha</span> : It is worn in the upper part of the body.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SwZ2frSUDCI/AAAAAAAADro/9PFaU3LQC2U/s1600/Men_4.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 168px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SwZ2frSUDCI/AAAAAAAADro/9PFaU3LQC2U/s200/Men_4.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5406138689272417314" /></a> It comes in different colors and also in different cuts. Two main types are long angarakha reaching below knees and the other is frock style and is waist length.This Rajasthani costume is also popular in some parts of Gujarat, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh as well.Meghanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16145965353983767833noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-244102573573364471.post-29348871906265665012009-11-09T08:46:00.002+05:302009-11-09T08:50:54.627+05:30The Law Of Karma – A Unique Contribution of India to the World<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SveJ8FObvlI/AAAAAAAADp4/jMJpktvIhLA/s1600-h/karma.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SveJ8FObvlI/AAAAAAAADp4/jMJpktvIhLA/s200/karma.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5401937943342071378" /></a><br />The law of cause and effect forms an integral part of Hindu philosophy. This law is termed as 'karma', which means to 'act. As in my earlier post on Hinduism I have been writing that all concepts, philosophies, festivals of Hindu religion are based on my scientific and social theory, the same is the Law of Karma. <br /><br />The theory of <span style="font-weight:bold;">karma harps on the Newtonian principle that every action produces an equal and opposite reaction</span>. Every time we think or do something, we create a cause, which in time will bear its corresponding effects. This c<span style="font-weight:bold;">ause and effect generates the concept of samsara (or the world) and birth and reincarnation.</span> Karma <span style="font-weight:bold;">doest not only mean physical action. Mental actions also constitute Karma</span>. Karma could bring fruition immediately or at a later stage. <span style="font-weight:bold;">"Good karma" and "bad karma," which are stored reactions that gradually unfolds to determine our unique destiny. </span>The karma incurred by a person through his actions determines the course of his life upon earth and his progression into the higher world. Hindu philosophy, which believes in life after death, holds the doctrine that if the karma of an individual is good enough, the next birth will be rewarding, and if not, the person may actually devolve and degenerate into a lower life form.<br /><br />Things do not happen in this universe by accident or chance in a disorderly manner. They happen in regular succession. They follow one another in a regular order. There is a certain definite connection between what is being done now by you, and what will happen in the future. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Past – Present – Future all are connected</span>. Everything in this universe is connected. Even if we do something unimportant, it important that it gets done as everything is connected. Each step leads to a next step so neither the first step or the last steps are of greater significance. As both the steps were needed to accomplish the task.<br /><br />There are t<span style="font-weight:bold;">hree kinds of Karma’s.</span> <span style="font-weight:bold;">Prarabdha</span> (so much of past actions as has given rise to the present birth), <span style="font-weight:bold;">Sanchita</span> (the balance of past actions that will give rise to future births - the storehouse of accumulated actions), <span style="font-weight:bold;">Agami or Kriyamana</span> (acts being done in the present life).<br /><br />The doctrine of Karma is <span style="font-weight:bold;">not only associated Hinduism</span>.Jainsim, Buddhisim, Sikkhism all these great religions revolve around the Law of Karma.In <span style="font-weight:bold;">Christianity its said ‘What you sow,you reap this also the cause and effect, thus Law of Karma.</span>For good karma it is necessary to stabilize our minds and thoughts. This can be done by practicing Yoga. Also good Karma can be achieved by following Dharma.Meghanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16145965353983767833noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-244102573573364471.post-18693029634492505592009-11-04T13:35:00.002+05:302009-11-04T13:45:35.029+05:30Interesting Facts about India<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SvE322DEGmI/AAAAAAAADpw/muYX4DPM_MU/s1600-h/namaste.gif"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 180px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SvE322DEGmI/AAAAAAAADpw/muYX4DPM_MU/s200/namaste.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5400158843554765410" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Mark Twain said ‘India is, the cradle of the human race, the birthplace of human speech, the mother of history, the grandmother of legend, and the great grand mother of tradition. Our most valuable and most instructive materials in the history of man are treasured up in India only.</span><br /><br />• India is the largest democracy in the world.<br />• Although modern images & descriptions of India often show poverty, India was one of the richest countries till the time of British in the early 17th Century. Christopher Columbus was attracted by India's wealth and was looking for route to India when he discovered America by mistake.<br />• Every major world religion is represented in India. Additionally, Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism all originated in India.<br />• India never invaded any country in her last 100000 years of history.<br />• The world's first University was established in Takshashila in about 700 B.C. More than 10,500 students from all over the world studied more than 60 subjects. The University of Nalanda built in the 4th century C.E. was one of the great achievements of ancient India in the field of education.<br />• According to the Geological Institute of America, up until 1896, India was the only source of diamonds to the world. Kohinoor, the jewel in the crown of the British monarch, is from India.<br />• The concept of the number zero was created in India by the sage Aryabhatta. The place value system and the decimal system were also developed in India in about 100 B.C. Algebra, trigonometry and calculus originated from India.<br />• The Vishnu Temple in the city of Tirupathi built in the 10th century, is the world's largest religious pilgrimage destination. Larger than either Rome or Mecca, an average of 30,000 visitors donate $6 million (US) to the temple everyday.<br />• Ayurveda is the earliest school of medicine known to mankind. Charaka, the father of medicine, consolidated Ayurveda 2500 years ago.<br />• India is one of the largest exporters of computer software products. It exports soft wares to over 90 countries.<br />• Christians and Jews have been living in India since 52 A.D. and 200 B.C. respectively.<br />• Varanasi, also known as Benaras, was called "the Ancient City" when Lord Buddha visited it in 500 B.C., and is the oldest, continuously inhabited city in the world today.<br />• The art of Navigation was developed along the river Sindhu over 6000 years ago. In fact, the word Navigation comes from the Sanskrit word Navgatih<br />• The largest employer in the world is the Indian Railways, employing over a million people.<br />• Yoga has its origins in India and has existed for over 5,000 years.<br />• Chess was invented in India. The game of snakes & ladders was created by the 13th century poet saint Gyandev. When many cultures were only nomadic forest dwellers over 5000 years ago, Indians established Harappan culture in Sindh Valley, known as the Indus Valley Civilization. <br />• India is the largest English speaking country in the world.<br />• Sushruta is regarded as the father of surgery. Over 2600 years ago Sushrata & his team conducted complicated surgeries like cataract, artificial limbs, cesareans, fractures, urinary stones and also plastic surgery and brain surgeries. Anesthesia was used in Indian medicine long before it was adopted into modern medicine.Meghanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16145965353983767833noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-244102573573364471.post-56382231966676020852009-10-21T08:04:00.011+05:302010-01-27T03:35:27.897+05:30Gossips Popular in India…In this post, I would be writing about some gossips popular in India from decades. We all know gossip is the idle talk or a rumor, so please no offence. These are the gossips which everyone in India wants to read and talk.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/St5zYp9_6tI/AAAAAAAADYo/aXpURHomFeA/s1600-h/Gossip_0.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 131px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/St5zYp9_6tI/AAAAAAAADYo/aXpURHomFeA/s200/Gossip_0.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394876271056382674" /></a><br /><br />1) <span style="font-weight:bold;">Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first Prime Minister, and Lady Edwina Mountbatten-</span>A lot have been talked about the close friendship between Lady Mountbatten and Nehru. Both of them had a tender and an emotional attachment. Mountbatten’s daughter Pamela also wrote about Nehru’s relationship with her mother in her memoir “India Remembered”. Richard Hough’s biography “Mountbatten: Hero of Our Times” also talks about this affair.<br /><br />2 )<span style="font-weight:bold;">Lady Diana</span> –Priness of Wales always dreamt of marriage that would be happy lasting marriage.But unfortunately her dreams were shattered when her husband Charles returned to his long time mistress Camilla.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/St5ziml1beI/AAAAAAAADYw/RZkkxhlsNOE/s1600-h/Gossip_1.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 154px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/St5ziml1beI/AAAAAAAADYw/RZkkxhlsNOE/s200/Gossip_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394876441948417506" /></a> Her loneliness made her attracted towards her body guard Barry Mannakee.But this attraction did not last long , he got fired from Charless and later died in motorbike accident.Then came James Hewitt,riding instructor in her life.But that relationship also ended in a disappointment when he published about their affair in the book ‘Prinecss in Love’.Then another rumor of Lady Diana’s liking for the heart surgeon Hasnat Khan,but this was also short lived.After sometime her affair started with Dodo Al Fayed.Both of them showed their love in public and gave a great sensation to press.Unfortunately,this love affair ended in a tragedy on the roads of Paris.<br /><br />3 )<span style="font-weight:bold;">Amitabh Bacchaan and Rekha</span> -The sizzling affair between 'Superstar of the Millennium' Amitabh Bachchan and the Bollywood's eternal temptress Rekha remains unparalleled.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/St5z4yprneI/AAAAAAAADY4/IgMwZ8lqPf4/s1600-h/Gossip_2.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 153px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/St5z4yprneI/AAAAAAAADY4/IgMwZ8lqPf4/s200/Gossip_2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394876823142899170" /></a><br /> The offscreen chemistry between the two was very evident on screen. Their love story began on the sets of 'Do Anjaane' - the second film that they did together. The pair provided hit after hit together - 'Khoon Pasina', 'Ganga Ki Saugandh', 'Suhaag','Muqaddar Ka Sikandar', 'Ram Balram' and 'Mr. Natwarlal'amongst others. The on-screen chemistry generated in the many films they made together, led many to suspect that there was a real life romance happening.Both the super stars have never spoken about their intimate friendship ever in public.<br /><br />4 ) <span style="font-weight:bold;">Bill Clinton and Monica Lewinsky –</span>President of America, Bill Clinton and his intimate relationship with with young and beautiful Monica Lewinsky has been the talk of the town always.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/St50FAECbAI/AAAAAAAADZA/vx81CT-JkZg/s1600-h/Gossip_3.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 140px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/St50FAECbAI/AAAAAAAADZA/vx81CT-JkZg/s200/Gossip_3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394877032901536770" /></a> Clinton's impeachment was acquitted after a lengthy senate trial. The sexual scandal excited the world's media and made Monica Lewinski into a minor celebrity that was famous for being famous. Clinton was found to have lied about his sexual relations with Lewinski. Bill Clinton was charged with perjury or lying under oath about his sexual relations with the 22 year old White House intern, Monica Lewinsky to gain advantage in a sexual harassment case brought by Paula Jones, a case he later settled by paying Paula Jones $850,000. A Federal judge found Bill Clinton also to be in contempt of court for lying in a deposition and ordered him to pay a $90,000 fine. This contempt citation led to disbarment proceedings similar to Richard Nixon's. To avoid these proceedings, Clinton surrendered his law license. Later Clinton’s wife forgave his husband and he remained a married couple.<br /><br />5 ) <span style="font-weight:bold;">Ashiwarya Rai and Abhishek Bachchan-</span> Abhishek the son of the superstar Amitabh Bachchan is married to former Miss World Ashiwarya Rai.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/St50QXDMw7I/AAAAAAAADZI/cMeYyqLXvKA/s1600-h/Gossip_4.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 164px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/St50QXDMw7I/AAAAAAAADZI/cMeYyqLXvKA/s200/Gossip_4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394877228050596786" /></a>This couple is the most talked about couple not only in India but internationally.Before marriage Ashiwarya ‘s relations with bollywood actors Salman Khan,Vivek Oberio were the discussed. Their wedding was a private affair intended for the Bachchan and Rai family and friends, the involvement of the media made it a national extravaganza. Abhishek is 2 years younger than his wife. After marriage their has been number of rumors about Ashiwarys on the way to motherhood. Bachchans’ have being denying these rumors.This fact remains unchanged that when there is news in the media about this young couple, readers just love to read it.<br /><br />6) <span style="font-weight:bold;">Ambani Brothers</span>- The two sons of Dhirajlal Hirachand Ambani, Mukesh Ambani and Anil Ambani and the suuccessors of the Reliance empire.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/St50bXvbYuI/AAAAAAAADZQ/g3p1zO9vpKo/s1600-h/Gossip_5.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/St50bXvbYuI/AAAAAAAADZQ/g3p1zO9vpKo/s200/Gossip_5.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394877417214665442" /></a><br /> The fact that differences continued to simmer was evident by the approach of the two brothers after mid-2003, when Anil was reported to have admitted to the presence of 'constructive tensions' between the two. There furious battle for the Reliance empire was the part of top stories in media. Everyone wanted to know how this battle would settle between brothers. The Reliance empire was divided between both the brothers but their confrontation on various issue erupt from time to time. Media adds some spices to the story and gives it to the public.<br /><br />7 )<span style="font-weight:bold;"> Rajkapoor and Nargis</span> – The superstars and the romantic pair of Bollywood has still imprints on the mind of their fans. Nargis was romantically linked with Raj Kapoor whom she was casted in most of her films. Off-screen, her affair with the already married Raj Kapoor was a matching of soul and spirit. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/St50oGpfh8I/AAAAAAAADZY/AEVbZj1W-bY/s1600-h/Gossip_6.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 149px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/St50oGpfh8I/AAAAAAAADZY/AEVbZj1W-bY/s200/Gossip_6.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394877635964667842" /></a>Nargis was finest artistic asset he had under his RK Films banner. This became clear after the two broke up around 1957. Nargis went on to make Mother India that year, considered by many to be the zenith of her career. In contrast, not a single film of note came out of RK Studios after Nargis left. Later in 1960’s RK Flims offered Jis Desh Mein Ganga Behti Hai which was a complete shift of Raj Kapoor’s cinema approach.Meghanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16145965353983767833noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-244102573573364471.post-17488272419788821752009-10-19T07:39:00.009+05:302009-10-19T12:06:55.502+05:30Adaraani Poori and Aloo tomato ki sabji<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/StvxQ1brQeI/AAAAAAAADYY/iSGiW53L_hI/s1600-h/IMG_0278.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/StvxQ1brQeI/AAAAAAAADYY/iSGiW53L_hI/s200/IMG_0278.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394170250229662178" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Adaraani poori are also known as namkeen poori. These poori’s are good for health and very tasty.Perfect dish for festival season.Adaraani is a word from Bundelkhand, my native.</span><br /><br />Category Main Dish <br />Region All of India <br />Also Called Several names (depending upon the region)<br />Descriptive English Name Indian bread and tomato –potatao sabji<br />Cooking Time 30 Min<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Ingredients for Poori</span><br /><br />• 1 Bowl besan (Gram Flour)<br />• 1bowl atta (wheat flour)<br />• 1tbsp Ajwani (Carom, Oregano)<br />• ½ tbsp red chilli powder<br />• 1/2tbsp salt<br />• 1tbsp oil<br />• Oil for deep frying<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Method for preparation of poori</span><br />Mix all the above ingredients along with one tbsp oil. Knead well by adding water to make hard dough. Leave the dough for half hour. Divide the roll into lime sized balls.With the help of patta belan or poori maker press the balls in circular shapes. Deep fry poori's in hot oil for a minute.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Stvxwv1-_uI/AAAAAAAADYg/VRArVrSljOw/s1600-h/IMG_0277.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Stvxwv1-_uI/AAAAAAAADYg/VRArVrSljOw/s200/IMG_0277.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5394170798485208802" /></a><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Ingredients for Aloo tomato ki sabji</span><br />• 4 Boiled poatotes<br />• 1 tomato<br />• 2-3 finelly chopped green chillie<br />• Finely chopped coriander.<br />• 1tbps Jeera (Cumin seeds)<br />• 1 tbps Haldi (Tumeric powder<br />• 2 tbps oil<br />• 2 tbps Dhaniya powder (coriander powder)<br />• 1/2 tbsp Garam masala<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Method for preparation of Aloo tomato ki sabji</span><br />Heat the frying pan. Add jeera and green chilli and let it splutter.Now add finely chopped tomato.Stir to cook.Now add chooped boiled potatoes.Stir to fry all ingredients.Now add 1 cup water and garam masala and boil for 3-4 min. Granish it with coriander leaves. Serve hot with poori.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Smart tips</span> – These Poori are perfect for travelling,as they can be stored for one day.Meghanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16145965353983767833noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-244102573573364471.post-83091245388433570862009-10-15T08:01:00.006+05:302009-10-15T09:21:05.541+05:30Tradition of Choodiyan or Bangles in India<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/StabNYh5cvI/AAAAAAAADXo/eAR1mVO_kls/s1600-h/0chutney.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/StabNYh5cvI/AAAAAAAADXo/eAR1mVO_kls/s200/0chutney.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5392668258047980274" /></a><br /><br />Undoubtedly, bangles complement the dress of women. Wearing bangles or chudiyan is like adding one more feather to your cap. The best part about bangles is that it can be worn with any kind of dress. In India the tradition of wearing Bangles is very old and red glass bangles signify matrimony. Solha Shringar or sixteen adornments of an Indian bride is incomplete without decorating her wrist with bangles. Ornaments on the arms and wrists were worn in India from the days of the Indus Valley Civilization (2300-1000 B.C.) as is evident from the bronze figurine found in Mohenjodaro. Bangles cover the entire arm of this figurine. The Yakshini idol of the Sunga dynasty (321-72 BC) too wears bangles with intricate designs on it. In Sanchi, the female figures display bangles, as do the cave paintings in the Ajanta and Ellora.<br /><br />As per the belief of Indian, it is must for married women to wear bangles. It symbolizes the well being of her husband. Some women in India are so superstitious, that even when changing bangles, they never allow their arm to be completely bare. A simple string or even the end of her sari is wrapped around the arm, until the new set is worn. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/StaZ685SaPI/AAAAAAAADXg/feJOL_A3j-Y/s1600-h/Banglesinindia.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 125px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/StaZ685SaPI/AAAAAAAADXg/feJOL_A3j-Y/s200/Banglesinindia.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5392666841880619250" /></a><br /> <br />India being a land of diversities and this can be seen in the style on wearing bangles. In the eastern state of <span style="font-weight:bold;">west Bengal, married women a pair of white color Shakha (shell) and Paula (red coral) bangles</span>. In the northern India, especially <span style="font-weight:bold;">Punjab married women wear set of ivory bangles called Chooda</span> on each hand for 21 days, or a year after marriage, depending on family tradition. In R<span style="font-weight:bold;">ajasthan woman wears ivory bangles from her wrist to her upper arm </span>as jewelry of gold for the rest of her life or till her husband is alive. Although this tradition is now no more alive in Rajasthan, can be seen only in rural parts. In Western state of <span style="font-weight:bold;">Maharashtra green color glass bangles are sign of married status of women. Green is considered auspicious color for a married woman in Maharashtra.</span> <span style="font-weight:bold;">Red color glass bangles are a symbol of well being and marital status</span> in other parts of the country. Now that women are becoming more fashion conscious they wear matching bangles with their attire.The tradition of wearing bangles is prevalent in many other parts of South Asia and also Pakistan, Nepal. Not only Bollywood celebrities ,International Celebrities like Jeniffer Lopez, Late Princess Diana, Goldie Hawn, Sally Field, Hillary Clinton,Chelsey Clinton, Elizabeth Hurley, Anna Kournikova, Madonna, Sharon Stone, Jemima Khan have adorned this graceful Indian bangle jewelry at high profile social, music, Hollywood and fashion events.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/StabdUWEf9I/AAAAAAAADXw/MOf8UOOggog/s1600-h/chudiya4_250x250.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 165px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/StabdUWEf9I/AAAAAAAADXw/MOf8UOOggog/s200/chudiya4_250x250.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5392668531802537938" /></a><br /><br /><br />Apart from expensive Gold and silver and traditional glass bangles, now women can be seen wearing wooden, metal, lac and other fashion bangles. Glass bangles are mainly produced in <span style="font-weight:bold;">Firozabad in North India. Hyderabad has a historic market for bangles named the Laad Bazaar.</span>Meghanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16145965353983767833noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-244102573573364471.post-83850635152347482882009-10-05T07:54:00.011+05:302009-10-06T05:38:45.689+05:30Queen Victoria Market – Largest Open Air Market in Southern Hemisphere<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SslhHWrXqQI/AAAAAAAADN8/YDwF3ebwvCI/s1600-h/IMG_0113.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SslhHWrXqQI/AAAAAAAADN8/YDwF3ebwvCI/s200/IMG_0113.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388945208099973378" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SslZ5w0DESI/AAAAAAAADM0/wjCJffyLZRY/s1600-h/IMG_0145.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SslZ5w0DESI/AAAAAAAADM0/wjCJffyLZRY/s200/IMG_0145.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388937278016131362" /></a><br />The Queen Victoria Market is an historic Melbourne landmark and a Melbourne institution dating back to more than 130 years ago and is said to be the largest open air market in southern hemisphere. This market is spread in 7 hectares.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SslbU9E7iCI/AAAAAAAADNM/NHrYUrY55tk/s1600-h/IMG_0138.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SslbU9E7iCI/AAAAAAAADNM/NHrYUrY55tk/s200/IMG_0138.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388938844676261922" /></a> Officially opened in March 1878 as the Queen Victoria Market, it had operated even before that time as a motley market of goods and produce. It is one of the major Melbourne’s tourist destinations. Queen Victoria market turns in into Modern Arabic Night Bazaar which offers a more relaxed and a leisurely family day on Sunday’s.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SslgM0D611I/AAAAAAAADN0/Dz7_u7nZT0Y/s1600-h/IMG_0144.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SslgM0D611I/AAAAAAAADN0/Dz7_u7nZT0Y/s200/IMG_0144.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388944202375288658" /></a><br /><br />The Market is probably best known for its huge variety of fresh produce. Almost 50% of the Market area is dedicated to the sale of fresh produce, including fresh fruits and vegetables, meat, chicken, seafood and delicatessen products. Almost one thousand traders sell everything from exotic Australian fruit and vegetables and local and imported gourmet foods, meat, fish and poultry to hardware, Manchester, clothing and authentic Australian artifacts and souvenirs.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Sslc3iJbHTI/AAAAAAAADNU/_ox4ge5d1EI/s1600-h/IMG_0134.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Sslc3iJbHTI/AAAAAAAADNU/_ox4ge5d1EI/s200/IMG_0134.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388940538254400818" /></a> From farm fresh to clothes, shoes, electronics, toys, jewelry, kitchen, pets care every thing one can find in Victoria Market and at very reasonable prices.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SslaTdkElAI/AAAAAAAADM8/nn2ILxasUNM/s1600-h/IMG_0122.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SslaTdkElAI/AAAAAAAADM8/nn2ILxasUNM/s200/IMG_0122.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388937719525446658" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Ssla3HBU-5I/AAAAAAAADNE/JEJA5ZkEGVw/s1600-h/IMG_0128.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Ssla3HBU-5I/AAAAAAAADNE/JEJA5ZkEGVw/s200/IMG_0128.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388938331949431698" /></a><br /><br />Aside from the variety of wares offered at the Queen Victoria Market, buskers and street entertainment is a market feature, particularly on Sundays when Queen St is closed and becomes a place of cafes, carnival rides and other activities.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SslhdGyfyRI/AAAAAAAADOE/IDRXCRy2OkM/s1600-h/IMG_0115.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SslhdGyfyRI/AAAAAAAADOE/IDRXCRy2OkM/s200/IMG_0115.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388945581792020754" /></a> There is also a food court caters to every visitors taste. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Sslc5B3jDUI/AAAAAAAADNs/giSWn8CpxWs/s1600-h/IMG_0141.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Sslc5B3jDUI/AAAAAAAADNs/giSWn8CpxWs/s200/IMG_0141.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388940563949227330" /></a>The best feature of Queen Victoria Market is that it’s not lost its tradition and also but has adopted the modern features also.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Sslc4IUM-RI/AAAAAAAADNc/SGC9xGXV_Y0/s1600-h/IMG_0129.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Sslc4IUM-RI/AAAAAAAADNc/SGC9xGXV_Y0/s200/IMG_0129.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388940548500158738" /></a> Ah!! On Friday, Saturday and Sunday this market offers are wide variety of wines for wine lovers. You can buy wine in bottles or in bulk,later bring back your bottles for refilling. It's good for the environment and good for your budget. Queen Victoria market offers the widest range of organic produce available in Melbourne.<br /><br />In 2003, the roofs of the market was equipped with 1,328 solar photovoltaic panels, covering 2000 square meters and generating 252,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity each year, the largest such renewable energy installation in the City of Melbourne. The grid has been considered as the largest urban grid-connected solar photovoltaic installation in the Southern Hemisphere upon completion<br /><br />It is very much centrally located, and within walking distance from either the Elizabeth St exit of Melbourne Central Railway Station or Flagstaff Station on the corner of Latrobe and William Sts. No visit to Melbourne is complete without visiting Queen Victoria Market. Enjoy some pictures of Queen Victoria Market along with this post.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Sslc4vmcttI/AAAAAAAADNk/4Dqk9MfRh_Y/s1600-h/IMG_0125.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Sslc4vmcttI/AAAAAAAADNk/4Dqk9MfRh_Y/s200/IMG_0125.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388940559045670610" /></a>Meghanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16145965353983767833noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-244102573573364471.post-24413920624353488102009-09-30T09:07:00.009+05:302009-09-30T11:25:36.212+05:30Karwa Chauth – A Reflection of Joy, Splendor, Brightness and Happiness In Married Life.<span style="font-weight:bold;">Readers of this post are recommended to read my earlier post Hartalika Teej under the label Hinduism<br />http://meghanaunleashed.blogspot.com/2009/08/hartalika-teej-festival-of-hindu-women.html<br /></span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SsLU0B_Z60I/AAAAAAAADMc/LXd9uM-SEZE/s1600-h/kc.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 153px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SsLU0B_Z60I/AAAAAAAADMc/LXd9uM-SEZE/s200/kc.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387102094641195842" /></a><br />Karwa Chauth falls about nine days before Diwali. It is celebrated on the chaturthi tithi after the full Moon in the month of kartik in the Hindu calendar It is the most important fast observed by Hindu women of North India. The festival of Karva Chauth is symbolic of the unflagging loyalty of a wife towards her husband. As the name signifies, <span style="font-weight:bold;">Karva meaning a clay pot and Chauth corresponding to the fourth, this festival is commemorated on the the fourth day after the Full Moon in Kartik month of Hindu calendar.</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SsLU9eURfkI/AAAAAAAADMk/Px8GdH1XQi4/s1600-h/kc_0.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 149px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SsLU9eURfkI/AAAAAAAADMk/Px8GdH1XQi4/s200/kc_0.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387102256863739458" /></a><br />Married women keep a strict fast and <span style="font-weight:bold;">do not take even a drop of water and pray for the prosperity and longevity of their husbands life.</span> After having the scrumptious meal called 'sargi' in the pre-dawn time, women observe a one-day fast for Karwa Chauth. They break the fast only after having a glimpse of the moon rise (on their thali that is filled with water or through a sieve) and their husband. Before the moon rise, around 4 -5 pm all married women gather at one place and narrate the Vrat Katha . The important rituals involving the festival include worshipping 'Karwas' spherical clay pots with symbols for married women and sweets. Now a days steel Karwa’s are available in the market.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SsLVEnzreAI/AAAAAAAADMs/d785kqlc1Tk/s1600-h/kc_2.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SsLVEnzreAI/AAAAAAAADMs/d785kqlc1Tk/s200/kc_2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5387102379670468610" /></a> They are later exchanged with other married women As a part of the tradition, a two-inch tall idol of Goddess Gauri is made using cow dung and a picture of the idol is kept aside, because she is the deity worshipped on the day.<br /><br />As all Hindu festival has some scientific or social cause behind its celebration, Karwa Chauth also has a <span style="font-weight:bold;">social cause </span>attached to its celebration. This time of the year is just after the harvest of Kharif (monsoon) crops and people are usually in a festive mood. This is time when people gather and celebrate the harvest and exchange gifts. This festival gives a chance the bride a chance to get close to her ill-laws. Usually, women receive beautiful gifts from their husbands and relatives on this day, as a gesture of their love and care. Karwa Chauth is an occasion that encourages <span style="font-weight:bold;">people to gather and socialize with friends and family, exchange gifts and share home-cooked meals.</span><br /><br />This year Karwa Chauth would be celebrated on 7th October 2009.Meghanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16145965353983767833noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-244102573573364471.post-82109706882961492892009-09-25T09:13:00.006+05:302009-09-25T09:48:09.452+05:30The Fours Ashrams of Life – A Rational and a Scientific Approach of LifeIn my earlier post on Hinduism, I have emphasized that Hinduism is more a way of life than a religion. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Every doctrine of ancient India, carved out by the ancient saints, is based on scientific and rational reasoning.</span> However, to put them to use they needed to be socially embedded. Hence methods like, the Ashram system, were included in the Vedic society where the life of an individual was founded on both Karma and Dharma. <span style="font-weight:bold;">With such methodology the then contemporary society also aimed at holding the social institutions together. Instead of becoming sages and escaping from worldly duties man was taught to shoulder every social and personal obligation.</span> Apart from these the four stages of life also led to spiritual development.<br /><br />In the ancient Indian tradition, one planned the years of life in four ashrams or stages, with the style of Yoga practiced in each stage chosen to match the circumstances of that stage. The average life of Indian was considered 100 years. The life span in Vedic India was divided in 4 parts, each of 25 years. These were called Ashrams. <span style="font-weight:bold;">The word ashram means shelter implying that the person takes shelter successively in each of the four stages during his life’s journey.</span> These ashrams were named following: <br />• <span style="font-weight:bold;">Brahmcharya Ashram (Student)<br />• Grihasth Ashram (Householder)<br />• Vanprastha Ashrama (Hermitage)<br />• Sanyas Ashrama (Renunciate)</span><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Brahmcharya Ashram (0 -25 years)</span> -<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Srw8uHEMBaI/AAAAAAAADL0/6yY816JyStY/s1600-h/ashram_1.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 167px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Srw8uHEMBaI/AAAAAAAADL0/6yY816JyStY/s200/ashram_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385246017296532898" /></a> The <span style="font-weight:bold;">celibate student</span> time of youth is for learning the foundation of lifestyle. This is the perfect time to inculcate values like self-restraint, knowledge and obedience. In this time one was accepted to have simple living. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Till a few decades back, celibacy till marriage was the norm in India. In rural India it still is. However in urban areas the incidence of premarital sex is increasing, largely under the influence of the west.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Grihasth Ashram (Householder) (25 – 50 years)</span> –<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Srw8-lSO5dI/AAAAAAAADL8/mMStIfDS-ls/s1600-h/ashram_2.gif"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Srw8-lSO5dI/AAAAAAAADL8/mMStIfDS-ls/s200/ashram_2.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385246300286412242" /></a>This was the stage of family life. It begins with marriage and proceeds to raising a family. It involves earning a living through the skills acquired during Brahmacharya ashram. Religious or spiritual practices are done in the context of worldly life and service to others. This is the first stage where he puts his knowledge to use. <span style="font-weight:bold;">He has to discharge the duties of a son, brother, husband, father and a member of the community.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Vanaprastha Ashram (50 -75 years) </span>–<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Srw9L-Km8dI/AAAAAAAADME/DFMRn5hGjZk/s1600-h/ashram_vanaprastha_3.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 168px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Srw9L-Km8dI/AAAAAAAADME/DFMRn5hGjZk/s200/ashram_vanaprastha_3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385246530303619538" /></a> <span style="font-weight:bold;">This Ashrama indicates the departure from material possessions. The person lives with the family, in society, but in a withdrawn manner.</span> Relationships with grown children and community are more in the role of a matured mentor. Celibacy is again advocated.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Sanyas Ashrama (75 – 100+ years)</span> - <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Srw9c_O-ufI/AAAAAAAADMU/r97BwXKCOLY/s1600-h/sanyas_ashram__4.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 147px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/Srw9c_O-ufI/AAAAAAAADMU/r97BwXKCOLY/s200/sanyas_ashram__4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385246822648166898" /></a>The final stage is Sanyasa or renunciation last till a person dies. He is completely free from the emotional attachments. It is at this age that he becomes an ascetic and <span style="font-weight:bold;">completely dedicates his life to serve God.</span><br /><br />Ideas like these can never grow old. As a result the Ashram System is still followed in India, consciously or unconsciously. Although <span style="font-weight:bold;">they are not strictly implemented but even today an Indian has a life of a student, a family man and then he retires. As old age seeps in, he passes on his responsibilities to his children and moves closer to spiritualism.</span>Meghanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16145965353983767833noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-244102573573364471.post-41353989059432644832009-09-23T08:35:00.006+05:302010-02-07T09:07:13.418+05:30If Marriages are Made in Heaven ,then Is Divorce Made in Hell? …Continued Impacts of Divorce On Children<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SrmRYEIQDDI/AAAAAAAADLs/HpcQVIB8Hr8/s1600-h/divorce_kids.gif"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 173px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SrmRYEIQDDI/AAAAAAAADLs/HpcQVIB8Hr8/s200/divorce_kids.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384494672109374514" /></a><br />The readers of the post are suggested to read my earlier post,the link given below or you can even find this post under the label My Journey of Life.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">http://meghanaunleashed.blogspot.com/2009/07/if-marriages-are-made-in-heaven-then-is.html<br /></span><br /><br />When a couple decides to end their relationship by the word DIVORCE. Children can often be the most effected by divorce, and recent studies have found that children from broken home are more prone to violence and substance abuse than those from a happy, family home. Divorce will not be easy for a parent; but a parent is a grown adult who has (hopefully) mastered coping skills. Children, on the other hand, are not necessarily as prepared as an adult in this regard. <span style="font-weight:bold;">What makes a sad situation even sadder is that parents going through a divorce are usually under so much emotional stress they are able to be of little help to their children.</span> When children are deprived of the emotional support from their parents, they often turn their frustrations on themselves and the people around them. All children are affected by divorce in some way. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Their world, their security and the stability they have known seem to fall apart when parents divorce. </span>Children can be severely traumatized by divorce, especially if the divorce is a nasty one, and/or if there is a prolonged or an intense custody battle. With every impact I am including an innocent line of the kid whose parents are divorced.<br /><br />• They feel helpless and powerless to do anything about the situation.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Feeling of Sadness</span><br /> <span style="font-style:italic;">"It really hurt. It was hard for me to accept not being able to live in the same house with both parents."</span><br /><br />• Sometimes children or teens feel they have to "take care of" one or both of their parents. Giving up one’s childhood to care for emotionally troubled parents is a widespread characteristic in children of divorce.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Forced Adulthood….</span><br /> <span style="font-style:italic;">"I hate it when my mom asks me how she looks. I don’t like being put in that situation. I wish my dad were here to do it."</span><br /><br />• Children who go through a divorce often are impacted in terms of their <br />self-esteem. They may believe that they themselves caused the divorce, or <br />that they did something wrong that made mommy and/or daddy want to not be with them.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Feeling Of Guilt</span><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">"My dad left because I wanted to ride my bike my way, and I told him to go away. He did and divorced my mom."<br />"If I had watched my baby brother when my mom was cooking dinner, then my mom wouldn’t have left me dad. It’s all my fault."</span><br /><br />• They may worry that their parents don’t love them anymore. They feel abandoned. They feel like the parent has divorced them too.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Feeling of Loneliness</span><br /> <span style="font-style:italic;"> We’re half a family now--lonely."<br />"Holidays will never be any good any more."</span><br /><br />• Children might indulge in alcohol/drug abuse and violence.<br /><br />• It might lead to isolating themselves from their friends and family<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Feeling of Isolation</span><br />"<span style="font-style:italic;">Daddy left. Will Mommy leave me too? What will happen to me?"</span><br /><br />• They might show destructive behavior and sometimes may indulge in breaking rules<br />• Children tend to have anger directed toward others and themselves<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Feeling of Anger</span><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">"I hate my sofa. It’s where my parents told me they were getting a divorce. I’ll never sit on it again."</span><br /><br />• In future they might have difficulty in establishing an intimate relationship or other interpersonal relationships.<br /><br />• They might become moody or silent and loose their naughty childhood early.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Feeling of Shock</span><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">"Unable to think, unable to feel, unable to grasp what had happened to their lives. Unable to speak about it."</span><br /><br />• Sometimes custody battle leaves life long impact on the immature child’s brain.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Feeling of Torn between parents</span><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">"Dad couldn’t really be as bad as Mom says he is."<br />"I don’t care who I live with. I love you both. Please don’t make me choose--just tell me."</span>Meghanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16145965353983767833noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-244102573573364471.post-6968140604168607682009-09-21T08:19:00.004+05:302009-09-21T10:20:07.072+05:30Tilak – A Mark of Hinduism on the Forehead<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SrbrWFtkSLI/AAAAAAAADLk/RmSzNb2fw6I/s1600-h/tilak.jpe"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 122px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_MSZspNBhl7M/SrbrWFtkSLI/AAAAAAAADLk/RmSzNb2fw6I/s200/tilak.jpe" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383749169290954930" /></a><br />Readers of the post are <span style="font-weight:bold;">highly recommended</span> to read my earlier post ‘Bindi A Icon of Indian tradition on the forehead’,this can be found under the label Indian traditions.<span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />http://meghanaunleashed.blogspot.com/2009/06/bindia-icon-of-indian-tradition-on.html</span><br /><br />Without the worship of Lord Ganesh no work begins in Hindu religion, similarly no religious work begins in Hindu religion without a TILAK on the forehead. Tilak is a mark of auspiciousness. In India, you will find people wearing a red, yellow, orange and, rarely, a black mark on their forehead. <span style="font-weight:bold;">It's called the tilak, or tilakam, in the Sanskrit</span> language and is basically a Hindu tradition. Depending on the purpose for which Tilak is applied, the material is chosen for preparing the sacred forehead mark.<br />• <span style="font-weight:bold;">Sandal</span>: White sandal symbolizes purity, calmness and tranquility<br />• <span style="font-weight:bold;">Kumkum</span>: Red kumkum signifies power, vigor, dynamism and stability<br />• <span style="font-weight:bold;">Turmeric</span>: Saffron colored turmeric stands for wealth, fortune, prosperity and opulence<br />• <span style="font-weight:bold;">Holy Ashes or Vibhuti</span>: Vibhuti represents dedication, devotion and commitment<br /> The devotees of <span style="font-weight:bold;">Shiva apply sacred ashes (Bhasma) on the forehead, the devotees of Vishnu apply sandal paste (Chandan), and the worshippers of Devi or Shakti apply Kumkum, a red tumeric powder. </span>The Shaivites(followers of Lord Shiva) typically use ash and draw their tilak as three horizontal lines. Vaishnavas (followers of Lord Vishnu) use clay from a holy river or place, which is sometimes mixed with sandalwood paste for applying Tilak.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">The holy scriptures of Hindu advocate the importance to Tilak on a forehead in the below line:</span><br />‘"A forehead without a Tilak, a woman without a husband, a Mantra the meaning of which is not known while doing Japa (recitation), the head that does not bend before holy personages, a heart without mercy, a house without a well, a village without a temple, a country without a river, a society without a leader, wealth that is not given away in charity, a preceptor without a disciple, a country without justice, a king without an able minister, a woman not obedient to her husband, a well without water, a flower without smell, a soul devoid of holiness, a field without rains, an intellect without clearness, a disciple who does not consider his preceptor as a form of God, a body devoid of health, a custom (Achar) without purity, austerity devoid of fellow-feeling, speech in which truth is not the basis, a country without good people, work without wages, Sannyasa without renunciation, legs that have not performed pilgrimages, determination unaided by Viveka or discrimination, a knife which is blunt, a cow that does not give milk, a spear without a point- all these are worthy of condemnation. They exist for name’s sake only."<br /><br />Tilak is a<span style="font-weight:bold;">pplied at the Ajna Chakra, the space between the two eyebrows</span>. It has a very cooling effect. Application of sandal paste has great medicinal value, apart from the spiritual influence. Numerous mentions have been made about Tilak in the ancient scriptures such as Vedas and Upanishads. Rig Veda has given an elaborate description about the life of Goddess Usha, the consort of Lord Surya. She is portrayed as wearing a red dot on her forehead that signifies the rising sun.<br /><br />Tilak applied with the<span style="font-weight:bold;"> ring-finger or thumb is very beneficial</span>. As per Hindu palmistry it is believed that at the base of the ring-finger is Sun and and at the base of the thumb is Venus. Sun represents firmness, brilliance, honour,respect and faith, while Venus gives life force, health, is the creator of new life, the bestowed of gentility and politeness. And if Tilak is applied on the forehead with these fingers then the blessings of sun or Venus can be achieved.Meghanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16145965353983767833noreply@blogger.com5