Kankaria Carnival 2014

Kankaria Carnival initiated by former Chief Minister Narendra Modi every year during Christmas in Ahmedabad at Kankaria lake front will kick off tomorrow by Chief Minister Anandiben Patel. The Chief Minister is going to open amusement park – 2 which has new rides that one can enjoy by paying package fee of Rs. 300. Amusement park – 2 has been set up at a cost of Rs. 20 crore. Amusement park – 1 which is already operational charges Rs. 500 package for all rides unlimited. 

During 25-31 December Kankaria Carnival 2014, cultural events will take place on three stages around Kankaria lake daily during 6.00-10.00 pm. Entry to Kankaria lake front will be free during Carnival period. 

Rangoli exhibition, wall painting, arms exhibition, puppets show, live characters, blood donation camp, Chhota Bhim, flash mob, aerobics, skillorama, Yoga with music, essay competition, tricycle rally, fancy dress, laughing club, painting competition, police horse and dog show, skating, lady magician, private school band, rock band, Chinese delegation event(proposed), mega audio visual performance ‘ Naari Vhal ma Vasnari’, laser show, , dance, play back singing, folk dances, tribal dances, performances by Tamil, Marathi, Keralian, Odia, Bengali,Telugu etc regional groups, skit on cleanliness theme, humor artists performances including performances of Shahbuddin Rathod, Sukhdev Dhamelia, Devraj Gadhvi, Jitu Dwarkawala, Ajay Barot, Mahesh Shastri, Gunvant Chudasama and Sairam Dave, mouth organ event, tabla event, show of musical instruments that are on verge of extinction, performance by differently abled etc are some of the events that are going to take place during Kankaria Carnival – 2014.

Bhagvad Gita Jayanti

Bhagvad Gita Jayanti

Gita Jayanti is the birthday of Bhagvad Gita, the sacred text of the Hindus. It is celebrated on the Shukla Ekadasi, 11th day of the waxing moon of Margashirsha month (November-December) in the Hindu calendar. It is believed the "Bhagavad Gita" was revealed to Arjuna by Sri Krishna Himself in the battlefield of Kurukshetra (in present day Haryana, India). The text is written in third person, narrated by Sanjaya to King Dhritarashtra as it transpired between Sri Krishna and Arjuna. Sanjaya, the secretary of the blind King Dhritarashtra, had been blessed by his Guru, Vyasadev, with the power to remotely view the events taking place on the battlefield as they transpired.

Background

The discourse of Bhagavad Gita took place just before the start of the Kurushektra war. This is the brief history prior to that:

After several attempts at reconciliation failed, war was inevitable. Out of pure compassion and sincere love for His devotee and best friend, Arjuna, Lord Krishna decided to become his charioteer during the battle. The day of the war finally came and both armies gathered on the battlefield face to face. Just as the battle was about to start, Arjuna asks Lord Krishna to drive the chariot to the middle of the battlefield in between both armies to have a look at the opposing armies. Seeing his Grandsire Bhishma who raised him with great affection since childhood, and his teacher Dronacarya who have trained him to become the greatest archer, Arjuna's heart begin to melt. His body started to tremble and his mind got confused. He became unable to perform his duty as a Kshatriya (warrior). He felt weak and sickened at the thought that he would have to kill his relatives, his friends and revered persons in this confrontation. Being very despondent, he told his friend Krishna of his sudden change of heart, and turned to Him for advice. The conversation that ensued, Lord Krishna's advice and teachings to Arjuna, is what is known now as the Bhagavad Gita, the most ancient scripture and non-sectarian philosophical work known to man.

Celebration

Gita Jayanti is celebrated worldwide by all devotees of Lord Krishna (followers of Sanatana Dharma), who revere Bhagavad Gita as their Divine Mother because She teaches us (in a non-sectarian and scientific manner) how to re-establish our lost relationship with God Almighty (The Supreme), our Divine Father.

It is generally observed by en-masse recitation of all 700 verses of the Gita chanted throughout the day. Devotees also fast on this day since it is an Ekadashi day (Ekadasi is the eleventh day of the waxing moon and waning moon - it occurs twice every lunar month and is observed by fasting from grains and lentils (peas, beans, dhals) by those who seek to progress spiritually. Bhajans and Poojas are held on this day. In places where this festival is celebrated grandly, stage play and Gita chanting competitions are held for kids to show their talents as a way to encourage their interest in reading Gita. Yogis, Sanyasins and learned scholar gives talks and held forums of this holy scripture. Leaflets, pamphlets and books containing the essence of Gita are distributed to the public. It is especially auspicious to distribute free copies of the Gita on this holy day.

For this festival, the Swadhyay Parivar encourage youth from 16–30 years of age, of many religions and cultures, to speak on a certain topics about Gita. Last year from around the world 3.5 million youth spoke on the Gita. This year, youth spoke on the topic Bhagvad Gita: The Destroyer of Kali yuga and the divine song of Unity. People have gone from house to house spreading the thoughts of the Gita.

In Malaysia, The Gita Jayanti Team celebrates Gita Jayanthi annually with the cooperation of different Hindu organizations in order to create self-realization among all Hindus.

In Singapore, Gita Jayanti celebrations have become a grand, month-long 'mega event' (see their official website in External Links below) It is coordinated by the Singapore Hindu Endowments Board with at least 36 Hindu Temples and Indian social & cultural organizations support. It has become a great platform for 'intra-faith' cooperation and harmony between the followers of various branches and sects of Sanatana Dharma ('hinduism'). Each year, in a very exemplary way, a different organization takes the leading role supported by all the others.

A unique development in the observance of Gita Jayanti was introduced in 1997 by Dina Anukampana Das [see official GJ Singapore Magazine article on its history by the Hon. Secretary, External Link below], a Singaporean, who is a dedicated preacher of the Bhagavad Gita. He developed a way of very simply singing the Gita with a nursery-rhyme type of tune that anyone can follow, accompanied by kartals and mridanga (drum). He also presented the verses in a format he invented called 'simplified romanized Sanskrit' wherein all the long syllables are marked in red to guide the novice (beginner). All resources for Gita Jayanti resources, such as the verses of the Gita in various formats and languages, audio and text, are available for download from the sites www.gitajayanti.ning.com and www.gitajayanti.org

When these verses are projected on a large screen, and sung to that simple tune, the results have proven to be very amazing, and a stark contrast to the traditional mode of chanting - because everyone is able to join in and sing along by the second or third chapter. (A sample of this new style of singing the Gita is online at www.gitasingalong.on.to Generally it is thought that 'Sanskrit is very hard' so I cannot chant it. This is true for the traditional way of chanting - only those who know Sanskrit to some degree can join in, because the speed of reading is so fast that any beginner will find it very hard to keep up. Furthermore, the tendency is to speed up as the hours go by. But in the new format, which is gaining popularity in New Zealand, Australia and elsewhere, the musical instruments control the pace, and the tune is so simple that there is time for the beginner to see and enunciate each and every syllable. The music thus unites the slow (beginners) and the fast (advanced) participants, in harmonious singing, enabling everyone to participate. (The system of romanized Sanskrit used is called IAST and its creation in Athens in 1912 is documented elsewhere on Wikipedia.)

These developments have proved effective for promoting the event to Hindus around the world, especially the younger generation, who are not fluent in reading Indian or Sanskrit scripts (with their hundreds of complex alphabets), but who can easily read the romanized version. Dina Anukampana Das has shared this method of observing the Gita with Hindu leaders in Malaysia, Bali (Indonesia), Cambodia, Auckland (New Zealand), Perth, Melbourne, Canberra, Chennai and its popularity has been growing. In this regard, the President of the Divine Life Society in Malaysia, His Holiness Swami Guhabhaktanandaji Maharaj, has written a strong supporting letter xxxxxxx addressed to all Hindu leaders in Chennai, to give strong support to this method of observing Gita Jayanti and to include it in their temple's annual calendar of events.

Guru Nanak Jayanti

Guru Nanak Gurpurab also known as Guru Nanak's Prakash Utsav and Guru Nanak Jayanti, celebrates the birth of the first Sikh Guru, Guru Nanak. This is one of the most sacred festivals in Sikhism. Apart from Sikhs, Hindus and other followers of Guru Nanak's philosophy also celebrate this festival.

The festivities in the Sikh religion revolve around the anniversaries of the 10 Sikh Gurus. These Gurus were responsible for shaping the beliefs of the Sikhs. Their birthdays, known as Gurpurab (or Gurpurb), are occasions for celebration and prayer among the Sikhs.

Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, was born on 15 April 1469 in Rai-Bhoi-di Talwandi in the present Shekhupura District of Pakistan, now Nankana Sahib. His birth is celebrated on Kartik Poornima, the full moon day in the month of Kartik. In the Gregorian Calendar, the celebration usually falls in the month of November, but its date varies from year to year, based on the traditional dates of the Indian calendar. It is a Gazetted holiday in India.

The celebration is generally similar for all Gurpurabs; only the hymns are different. The celebrations usually commence with Prabhat Pheris. Prabhat Pheris are early morning processions that begin at the Gurudwaras and proceed around the localities singing hymns. Generally two days before the birthday, Akhand Path (a forty-eight-hour non-stop reading of the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy book of the Sikhs) is held in the Gurdwaras.

The day prior to the birthday, a procession, referred to as Nagarkirtan, is organised. This procession is led by the Panj Pyaras (Five Beloved Ones). They head the procession carrying the Sikh flag, known as the Nishan Sahib and the Palki (Palanquin) of Guru Granth Sahib. They are followed by teams of singers singing hymns and devotees sing the chorus. There are brass bands playing different tunes and 'Gatka' teams display their swordmanship through various martial arts and as mock battles using traditional weapons. The procession pours into the streets of the town. The passage is covered with banners and gates decorated flags and flowers, for this special occasion. The leaders spreading the message of Guru Nanak.

On the day of the Gurpurab, the celebrations commence early in the morning at about 4 to 5 am. This time of the day is referred to as Amrit Vela. The day begins with the singing of Asa-di-Var (morning hymns). This is followed by any combination of Katha (exposition of the scripture) and Kirtan (hymns from the Sikh scriptures), in the praise of the Guru. Following that is the Langar, a special community lunch, which is arranged at the Gurudwaras by volunteers. The idea behind the free communal lunch is that everyone, irrespective of caste, class or creed, should be offered food in the spirit of seva (service) and bhakti (devotion).

10 Quotes:

1. I am not the born; how can there be either birth or death for me?
2. Let no man in the world live in delusion. Without a Guru none can cross over to the other shore.
3. Even Kings and emperors with heaps of wealth and vast dominion cannot compare with an ant filled with the love of God.
4. God is one, but he has innumerable forms. He is the creator of all and He himself takes the human form.
5. Thou has a thousand eyes and yet not one eye; Thou host a thousand forms and yet not one form.
6. The lord can never be established nor created; the formless one is limitlessly complete in Himself. Death would not be called bad, O people, if one knew how to truly die.
7. There is but One God, His name is Truth, He is the Creator, He fears none, he is without hate, He never dies, He is beyond the cycle of births and death, He is self illuminated, He is realized by the kindness of the True Guru. He was True in the beginning, He was True when the ages commenced and has ever been True, He is also True now.
8. From its brilliancy everything is illuminated.
9. Sing the songs of joy to the Lord, serve the Name of the Lord, and become the servant of His servants.
10. Through shallow intellect, the mind becomes shallow, and one eats the fly, along with the sweets.

Ganga Mahotsav 2014

Ganga Mahotsav 2014

Ganga Mahotsav 2014 would be celebrated by the people from 3rd (Monday) to 5th (Wednesday) of November. The event of Ganga Mahotsav is celebrated by the people in the holy city Varanasi for the five days.
Ganga Mahotsav Varanasi

It is believed that Ganga nourishes the Varanasi civilization for long and it has been a great religious importance in the Hindu society. It provides the people a great sense of different identity and belonging. For the religious and cultural beliefs of the people to the River Ganges, a festival of Ganga Mahotsav is organized every year. People at Varanasi celebrate Ganga Mahotsav continuously for 5 days at the banks of the River Gange.

Importance of Ganga Mahotsav

The trend of celebrating the Ganga Mahotsav in the Holy city of India, Varanasi, tends to keep the importance of the Varanasi as a cultural, religious and traditional capital of the India. At this occasion, pilgrims celebrate the event by performing an Indian classical style music and dance. It provides an immense chance for tourists to see the real presentation of the Indian classical dance and music. Pilgrims or tourists whoever want to participate in the Ganga Mahotsav, have already registered hotels, restaurants, dharamshala, guest houses or they stay to their relatives home in the Benares.

Many of the great personalities of India have participated and performed their enchanting performances at the Ganga Mahotsav such as Ustad Bismillah Khan, Bal Murli Krishnan, Vilayat Khan, Pundit Chhanulal Misra, Birju Maharaj, Girija Devi, Sujat Khan, Bhimsen Joshi, Amjad Ali Khan, Zila Khan and Zakir Hussein. This festival attracts pilgrims and tourists from all the corners of the world.

Sardar Patel Jayanti

Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was born to a Patidar gurjar farmer family of Gujarat. His native place was Karamsad. His date of birth was never officially recorded – Patel entered 31 October as his date of birth on his matriculation examination papers. They lived in the village of Karamsad, Bombay Presidency, where Jhaverbhai owned a homestead. Somabhai, Narsibhai and Vithalbhai Patel (also a future political leader) were his elder brothers. He had a younger brother, Kashibhai, and a sister, Dahiba. As a boy, Patel helped his father in the fields. When he was eighteen years old, Patel's marriage was arranged with Jhaverba, a girl of twelve or thirteen years old from a nearby village. According to custom, the young bride would continue to live with her parents until her husband started earning and could establish their household.

Patel travelled to attend schools in Nadiad, Petlad and Borsad, living self-sufficiently with other boys. He reputedly cultivated a stoic character. A popular anecdote recounts how he lanced his own painful boil without hesitation, even as the barber supposed to do it trembled. Patel passed his matriculation at the late age of 22; at this point, he was generally regarded by his elders as an unambitious man destined for a commonplace job. Patel himself harboured a plan to study to become a lawyer, work and save funds, travel to England and study to become a barrister. Patel spent years away from his family, studying on his own with books borrowed from other lawyers and passed examinations within two years. Fetching Jhaverba from her parents' home, Patel set up his household in Godhra and was called to the bar. During the many years it took him to save money, Patel – now an advocate – earned a reputation as a fierce and skilled lawyer. The couple had a daughter, Maniben, in 1904, and a son, Dahyabhai, in 1906. Patel also cared for a friend suffering from Bubonic plague when it swept across Gujarat. When Patel himself came down with the disease, he immediately sent his family to safety, left his home and moved into an isolated house in Nadiad (by other accounts, Patel spent this time in a dilapidated temple); there, he recovered slowly.

Patel practised law in Godhra, Borsad and Anand while taking on the financial burdens of his homestead in Karamsad. Patel was the first chairman and founder of the E.M.H.S. "Edward Memorial High School" Borsad which is at presently known as Jhaverbhai Dajibhai Patel High School. When he had saved enough for England and applied for a pass and a ticket, they arrived in the name of "V. J. Patel," at Vithalbhai's home, who bore the same initials. Having harboured his own plans to study in England, Vithalbhai remonstrated to his younger brother that it would be disreputable for an older brother to follow his younger brother. In keeping with concerns for his family's honour, Patel allowed Vithalbhai to go in his place. He also financed his brother's stay and began saving again for his own goals.

In 1909, Patel's wife Jhaverba was hospitalised in Bombay (now Mumbai) to undergo a major surgical operation for cancer. Her health suddenly worsened and, despite successful emergency surgery, she died in the hospital. Patel was given a note informing him of his wife's demise as he was cross-examining a witness in court. According to others who witnessed, Patel read the note, pocketed it and continued to intensely cross-examine the witness and won the case. He broke the news to others only after the proceedings had ended. Patel decided against marrying again. He raised his children with the help of his family and sent them to English-medium schools in Mumbai. At the age of 36, he journeyed to England and enrolled at the Middle Temple Inn in London. Finishing a 36-month course in 30 months, Patel topped his class despite having no previous college background.

Returning to India, Patel settled in the city of Ahmedabad and became one of the city's most successful barristers. Wearing European-style clothes and urbane mannerisms, he became a skilled bridge player. Patel nurtured ambitions to expand his practice and accumulate great wealth and to provide his children with modern education. He had made a pact with his brother Vithalbhai to support his entry into politics in the Bombay Presidency, while Patel remained in Ahmedabad and provide for the family.

Fighting for independence

At the urging of his friends, Patel won an election to become the sanitation commissioner of Ahmedabad in 1917. While often clashing with British officials on civic issues, he did not show any interest in politics. Upon hearing of Mohandas Gandhi, he joked to Mavlankar that "Gandhi would ask you if you know how to sift pebbles from wheat. And that is supposed to bring independence." But Patel was deeply impressed when Gandhi defied the British in Champaran for the sake of the area's oppressed farmers. Against the grain of Indian politicians of the time, Gandhi wore Indian-style clothes and emphasised the use of one's mother tongue or any Indian language as opposed to English – the lingua franca of India's intellectuals. Patel was particularly attracted to Gandhi's inclination to action—apart from a resolution condemning the arrest of political leader Annie Besant, Gandhi proposed that volunteers march peacefully demanding to meet her.

Satyagraha in Gujarat

Supported by Congress volunteers Narhari Parikh, Mohanlal Pandya and Abbas Tyabji, Vallabhbhai Patel began a village-by-village tour in the Kheda district, documenting grievances and asking villagers for their support for a statewide revolt by refusing the payment of taxes. Patel emphasised potential hardships with the need for complete unity and non-violence despite any provocation. He received enthusiastic responses from virtually every village. When the revolt was launched and revenue refused, the government sent police and intimidation squads to seize property, including confiscating barn animals and whole farms. Patel organised a network of volunteers to work with individual villages – helping them hide valuables and protect themselves during raids. Thousands of activists and farmers were arrested, but Patel was not. The revolt began evoking sympathy and admiration across India, including with pro-British Indian politicians. The government agreed to negotiate with Patel and decided to suspend the payment of revenue for the year, even scaling back the rate. Patel emerged as a hero to Gujaratis and admired across India. In 1920, he was elected president of the newly formed Gujarat Pradesh Congress Committee—he would serve as its president till 1945.

Patel supported Gandhi's Non-co-operation movement and toured the state to recruit more than 300,000 members and raise over Rs. 1.5 million in funds. Helping organise bonfires of British goods in Ahmedabad, Patel threw in all his English-style clothes. With his daughter Mani and son Dahya, he switched completely to wearing khadi. Patel also supported Gandhi's controversial suspension of resistance in wake of the Chauri Chaura incident. He worked extensively in the following years in Gujarat against alcoholism, untouchability and caste discrimination, as well as for the empowerment of women. In the Congress, he was a resolute supporter of Gandhi against his Swarajist critics. Patel was elected Ahmedabad's municipal president in 1922, 1924 and 1927—during his terms, Ahmedabad was extended a major supply of electricity and the school system underwent major reforms. Drainage and sanitation systems were extended over all the city. He fought for the recognition and payment of teachers employed in schools established by nationalists (out of British control) and even took on sensitive Hindu-Muslim Issues. Sardar Patel personally led relief efforts in the aftermath of the intense torrential rainfall in 1927, which had caused major floods in the city and in the Kheda district and great destruction of life and property. He established refuge centres across the district, raised volunteers, arranged for supply of food, medicines and clothing, as well as emergency funds from the government and public.

Leading the Congress

As Gandhi embarked on the Dandi Salt March, Patel was arrested in the village of Ras and was put on trial without witnesses, with no lawyer or pressman allowed to attend. Patel's arrest and Gandhi's subsequent arrest caused the Salt Satyagraha to greatly intensify in Gujarat—districts across Gujarat launched an anti-tax rebellion until and unless Patel and Gandhi were released. Once released, Patel served as interim Congress president, but was re-arrested while leading a procession in Mumbai. After the signing of the Gandhi-Irwin Pact, Patel was elected Congress president for its 1931 session in Karachi—here the Congress ratified the pact, committed itself to the defence of fundamental rights and human freedoms, and a vision of a secular nation, minimum wage and the abolition of untouchability and serfdom. Patel used his position as Congress president in organising the return of confiscated lands to farmers in Gujarat.

Patel's position at the highest level in the Congress was largely connected with his role from 1934 onwards (when the Congress abandoned its boycott of elections) in the party organisation. Based at an apartment in Mumbai, he became the Congress's main fund-raiser and chairman of its Central Parliamentary Board, playing the leading role in selecting and financing candidates for the 1934 elections to the Central Legislative Assembly in New Delhi and also for the Provincial elections of 1936. As well as collecting funds and selecting candidates, he would also determine the Congress stance on issues and opponents. Not contesting a seat for himself, Patel nevertheless guided Congressmen elected in the provinces and at the national level. In 1935, Patel underwent surgery for haemorrhoids, yet guided efforts against plague in Bardoli and again when a drought struck Gujarat in 1939. Patel would guide the Congress ministries that had won power across India with the aim of preserving party discipline—Patel feared that the British would use opportunities to create conflicts among elected Congressmen, and he did not want the party to be distracted from the goal of complete independence.

Quit India

On the outbreak of World War II Patel supported Nehru's decision to withdraw the Congress from central and provincial legislatures, contrary to Gandhi's advice, as well as an initiative by senior leader Chakravarthi Rajagopalachari to offer Congress's full support to Britain if it promised Indian independence at the end of the war and install a democratic government right away. Gandhi had refused to support Britain on the grounds of his moral opposition to war, while Subhas Chandra Bose was in militant opposition to the British. The British rejected Rajagopalachari's initiative, and Patel embraced Gandhi's leadership again. He participated in Gandhi's call for individual disobedience, and was arrested in 1940 and imprisoned for nine months. He also opposed the proposals of the Cripps' mission in 1942. Patel lost more than twenty pounds during his period in jail.
Azad, Patel and Gandhi at an AICC meeting in Bombay, 1940

While Nehru, Rajagopalachari and Maulana Azad initially criticised Gandhi's proposal for an all-out campaign of civil disobedience to force the British to Quit India, Patel was its most fervent supporter. Arguing that the British would retreat from India as they had from Singapore and Burma, Patel stressed that the campaign start without any delay. Though feeling that the British would not quit immediately, Patel favoured an all-out rebellion which would galvanise Indian people, who had been divided in their response to the war, In Patel's view, an all-out rebellion would force the British to concede that continuation of colonial rule had no support in India, and thus speed power transfer to Indians. Believing strongly in the need for revolt, Patel stated his intention to resign from the Congress if the revolt was not approved. Gandhi strongly pressured the All India Congress Committee to approve of an all-out campaign of civil disobedience, and the AICC approved the campaign on 7 August 1942. Though Patel's health had suffered during his stint in jail, Patel gave emotional speeches to large crowds across India, asking people to refuse paying taxes and participate in civil disobedience, mass protests and a shutdown of all civil services. He raised funds and prepared a second-tier of command as a precaution against the arrest of national leaders.[34] Patel made a climactic speech to more than 100,000 people gathered at Gowalia Tank in Bombay (Mumbai) on 7 August:

    "The Governor of Burma boasts in London that they left Burma only after reducing everything to dust. So you promise the same thing to India? ... You refer in your radio broadcasts and newspapers to the government established in Burma by Japan as a puppet government? What sort of government do you have in Delhi now?...When France fell before the Nazi onslaught, in the midst of total war, Mr. Churchill offered union with England to the French. That was indeed a stroke of inspired statesmanship. But when it comes to India? Oh no! Constitutional changes in the midst of a war? Absolutely unthinkable ... The object this time is to free India before the Japanese can come and be ready to fight them if they come. They will round up the leaders, round up all. Then it will be the duty of every Indian to put forth his utmost effort—within non-violence. No source is to be left untapped; no weapon untried. This is going to be the opportunity of a lifetime."

Jalaram Jayanti

Jalaram Jayanti

Jalaram Bapa's birthday is celebrated on 7th day Shukla paksha of the Hindu month of Kartika as Jalaram Jayanti. It falls on seventh day from Diwali. On this day, devotees are served meal as prasad. There is a huge fair and festival at Virpur on the occasion and millions of devotees visit Virpur, on this day to pay their respect to the saint and have prasad of chiefly of khichdi with Bundi and popular farsan item Ganthiya The Jalaram Jayanti celebrations are also held at all Jalaram temples spread throughout India & abroad with festivities, where devotees participate to pay their respects and have prasad.

Jalaram (Gujarati: જલારામ) popularly known as Jalaram Bapa (Gujarati: જલારામ બાપા) (4 November 1799 – 23 February 1881) was a Hindu saint from Gujarat, India. He was born on 4 November 1799, one week after the Hindu festival of Diwali, which is associated with his Iṣṭa-devatā Lord Rama.

Life

Jalaram Bapa was born in Virpur, Rajkot district, Gujarat, India in 1799, on the seventh day of the Kartika month. His father was Pradhan Thakkar and his mother was Rajbai Thakkar who belonged to Thakkar clan, which is a sub-group of Lohana clan. He was a devotee of the Hindu god Rama.

Jalaram Bapa was however not willing to live an householder's life and continued to take care of his fathers business. He was mostly engaged in serving pilgrims, sadhus and saints. He separated himself from his father's business and his uncle Valjibhai asked Jalaram Bapa and his wife Virbai to stay in his house.

At the age of sixteen, in 1816, Jalaram married Virbai, the daughter of Pragjibhai Thakkar (Somaiya) of Atkot. However, he was inclined to completely withdraw from materialistic life and become an ascetic, Virbai proved to be an asset to him in his works of feeding poor and needy.

At the age of 18, soon after returning from pilgrimage to Hindu holy places, Jalaram Bapa became the disciple of Bhoja Bhagat of Fatehpur, who accepted him as his disciple. Jalaram was given the "Guru Mantra" (mantra) and japa mala in the name of Rama by his Guru Bhojalram. With blessings of his guru, he started "Sadavrat", a feeding center, a place where all sadhus and saints as well as the needy could have food any time.

One day, a sadhu who came to his house gave him a deity of Lord Rama, forecasting that Hanuman, the monkey-god and devotee of Rama, would follow soon. Jalaram Bapa installed Rama as his family deity and after a few days, a deity of Hanuman appeared out of earth, on its own. The deity of Rama's consort Sita and his brother Lakshmana also appeared. Due to a miracle the container in the house of Jalaram, where grains were stored, became inexhaustible. Later other devotees and village folk joined him in his works of human welfare.

Soon his fame spread as an divine incarnation. Whoever came to Virpur, whether Hindu or Muslim irrespective of caste, creed and religion were fed by Jalaram. This tradition of feeding people continues to this day in Virpur.

Once a tailor named Haraji, who was suffering from severe stomach-ache came to him to get himself cured. Jalaram Bapa prayed to God and Haraji was cured. He fell at Jalaram Bapa 's feet and addressed him as Bapa. Since then he was known as Jalaram Bapa. Soon his fame spread and people came to him to get rid of diseases and problems. Jalaram Bapa would pray for them in the name of Rama and miracles happened. Both Hindus and Muslims became his disciples. In 1822, Jamal, son of a rich Muslim merchant fell ill and doctors gave up all hope. At that point of time, Haraji, told Jamal of his experience (parcha). Jamal, prayed from his house, that if his son is cured of the disease, he would give 40 maunds of grain to Jalaram Bapa for sadavrat. His son recovered and Jamal visited house of Jalaram Bapa with cart load of grains and called him Jalla so Allah!!.

At one time, God in the guise of an old saint told Jalaram to send Virbai to serve him. Jalaram consulted her and with her consent sent her with the saint. But after walking some miles and reaching a nearby forest, the saint asked Virbai to wait for him. She waited but saint did not return. Instead, she heard an Akashwani stating that it was only to test the hospitality of the couple. Before the saint disappeared, he left a Danda [staff] and Jholi[Cloth bag], with Virbai. Virbai returned home to Jalaram, as instructed by the celestial voice with Danda & Jholi. This Danda and Jholi are still at Virpur and kept on display in a glass enclosure.

Pateti

Description

In India's Cosmo cultured society, Parsis has a considerable position. For centuries they have scattered in different parts of India and living prosperous life. Pateti originally took place on the last day (or on last 5 days) of the Zoroastrian calendar year. 

History:

It is actually the day of introspection. The word Pateti is derived from Patet which means 'repentance'. On Pateti they visit their religious place Agiyari to worship the sacred fire, which was brought from Persia during their first entry in India. The sacred fire is always kept burning by their high priest.

Customs and Tradition:

The Parsis on this day promise to live with good thoughts, good words and perform right actions. Being a day of 'repentance', the Parsi community gives more importance to good thoughts, good words and good deeds. Any reaction in breach of the promised ideals is treated as a sin or offence against the good qualities and so an individual must repent and pray on the day of Pateti. Pateti is not the New Year but is celebrated on the eve of the New Year, while wishing Parsi community it should be Happy Navaroz or Happy New Year and not Happy Pateti.

On Pateti Parsis wear Kurti or their sacred vest. The men wear their traditional apparels called Dagli and women wear their loom gara sarees as per their traditions. They visit their divine place Agiyari to worship the sacred fire where 'Jashan' (worship) is performed and they offer sandalwood to it.

During this time, the Parsis clean their homes and decorate them with flowers and "Torans".  They visit their friends and relatives and exchange gifts. On this occasion they prepare special food. The menu consists of "Patra ni machchi", (fish wrapped in Banana leaves), Sali boti (meat with potato chips), falooda and rava.

Significance:

While praying on day of Pateti, a person confesses their own faults and prays to God for the spiritual strength to face retribution. He also prays for the strength to avoid wrong doings.

Bol Chauth

Bahula Chauth or Bol Chauth or Bahula Chauth Vrat or Bahula Chaturthi  is an indigenous Indian Festival. The festival symbolizes the significant role cattle plays in the lives of Indians and Indian farmers specifically.

The festival dedicated to cattle welfare is typically celebrated during the month of ‘Shravana’- a very auspicious month of Indian Lunar Calendar. The day falls on the fourth day of moon’s waning phase, religiously called the ‘Krishna Paksha’. This year Bol Chauth will be celebrated on 18th August. The festival is primarily celebrated in the Indian State- Gujarat.

Bol Chauth exemplifies the sensitivity of Indians towards animals. The festival has a religious significance too.  It is in fact casting light on the fact that Lord Krishna had a great love for the fauna.

Any image or painting depicting the lore of the lord shows some cows and peacocks in the background. Lord Krishna had immense liking for milk and related products. Cow, the holy animal which the Indians consider ‘mother’ itself was always found in the background of the most loved deity.

This day the farmers and their families are found in the mood of jubilee. The members of the agrarian households in Gujarat arise earlier than usual. They scrub the cattle to sparkling clean and clean their sheds too. The cattle are offered some rich delicacies and prayers are performed seeking the welfare, good health of the cattle.

Farmer-families consume food made of only millet as a ritualistic observance. The families usually feast and cook outside under the open sky. This happens to be a specific characteristic of the festival. In the evening there are prayers organized in the nearby temples and families gather to listen to the rendition of Bol Chauth Katha or legend.

The legend has it that a cow (some give the cow the name –Punyakoti) on its way to feed her calf was encountered by a hungry lion. The cow promises the lion that it would return certainly after feeding her calf. The lion agrees and the cow returns after feeding the calf, thus keeping the promise made. The hungry lion moved by the commitment of the cow sets her free permanently. The Bol Chauth Katha ritualistically marks the closure of the event.

If you know anything more about this fascinating festival kindly share with us right under this article. Together we will only add to our knowledge.

Shravan Mahina

What is the Shravan Maas Mahatmya or the importance of Shravan Mahina? 
Sawan month or Shravan maas is the fifth Hindu month. As per the Hindu scriptures and Vedas, Shravan maas is considered as highly auspicious month.

In Vedas, Sawan month is described as ‘Nabhas’. Shravan Purnima (the full moon day in Shravana masam) coincides with with the Nakshatra (birth star) of Lord Sri Maha Vishnu, Shravana nakshatra, hence the whole month is called as Shravana masam. This is the main reason why Sravan month is considered as important, significant and auspicious.

In 2014, Shravan Month begins on July 13 and ends on August 10 as per North Indian Hindi calendars. As per Telugu, Kannada, Marathi & Gujarati calendars, Shravan Maas 2014 begins on July 27 and ends on August 25.

Sawan maas is highly fruitful for good deeds. According to Puranas, performing Grihpravesh in this month is very significant and greatly forecasted. Hindu Astrology tells that the natives who born in Shravan maas are highly honored by the world. Hence Lord Jagannath, Sri Krishna, who was born in Sawan maas, is worshipped and honored by the world. Not only Sri Krishna, but Lord Hayagriva, who was born on Shravan Poornima, and Vaikhanasa Aagama Pravaktha, Vaikhanas Maharshi are also greatly worshipped.

Purnima (full moon day) in this month (Shravan Pournami) is very significant and important. Sharavan Purnima is celebrated as Jandhyala Pournami. On this day, dwijas (who can able to observe Upanayana punaskar) perform Upakarma. Vedas described that this Upakarma helps them in maintaining their spiritual, psychological and physical health. Sawan Purnima is also celebrated as Raksha bandhan (Rakhi festival). Rakhi festival is a great tradition of healthy relationship between brother and sister.

It is believed that Lord Shiva to save the world drank the poison ‘halahala’ that came out during the Samdura Manthan or churning of ocean. It is said that the gods in Hindu pantheon assembled to witness this holy act of Shiva. Water from Ganga is offered to cool Lord Shiva and to alleviate the ill effects of the poison.
The main Shravan Puja is the worship of Shivling with Gangajal, Bilva leaves or pure water. Some people observe fast on Mondays. Many people observe different vows during the month like having only vegetarian food, or reading a particular Holy Scripture on all days of the month.

Importance of Shravan Month/Shravan Maas:
Each day of the Shravan Month has its specific significance and ritual.

1. Monday: is the day of Lord Shiva worship.
2. Tuesday: Gauri is worshipped in every home by women for the good health of their family 
3. Wednesday: is dedicated to Vithala, a form of Vishnu or Krishna.
4. Thursday: are also days for worshipping Buddh and Guru.
5. Friday: for worshipping Lakshmi and Tulsi.
6. Saturday: are for Saturn (Shani). It is also known as Shravan Saturdays, to obtaining wealth. These days are known as Sampat Sanivara (wealth Saturdays).
7. Sundays: are meant to worship the Sun god. Sun worship was general in the Vedic period and even now, it is so. Especially in Shravan, every Sunday the Sun is worshipped without fail.

Akshaya Tritiya

Akshaya Tritiya, also known as Akha Teej, is a holy day for Hindus and Jains. It falls on the third Tithi (lunar day) of Bright Half (Shukla Paksha) of the pan-Indian month of Vaishakha and one of the four most important days for Hindus. It is an auspicious day of the birthday of Lord Parasurama who is the sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. On this day Veda Vyas and Lord Ganesha began to write Mahabharata.

In Jain and Hindu calendars, some days of the month are absent in counting and some days (tithi in lunar calendars) come extra, but Akshay tritiya is one day which is never "absent" from the lunar calendar.

The word "Akshaya" means the never diminishing in Sanskrit and the day is believed to bring good luck and success. It is believed that if you do charity on this day you will be blessed. On Akshay Tritiya, Mrutika worshiped.

Nowadays jewellers have turned the purity into a marketing gimmick. The day is considered auspicious for starting new ventures. The legend is that any venture initiated on the auspicious day of Akshaya Tritiya continues to grow and bring prosperity. Hence, new ventures, like starting a business, construction, etc. is performed on Akshaya Tritiya.

Astrological significance

As per Hindu electional astrology (Muhurta) three lunar days (tithis) are auspicious. These are called Sade-Teen Muhurtas also. These Tithis are first Tithi of Bright Half of Chaitra (starting of new year), tenth Tithi of Bright Half of Ashvina (Vijay Dashmi), third Tithi of Bright Half of Vaishakha (Akshay Tritiya- Parshu Jyanti) and first Tithi of Bright Half of Karttika are called “Sade-Teen (3 ½) Muhurt”. The first three tithis are counted as full and the last one as half Tithi and constitute Sade - Teen Muhurt. Sun and moon are astrologically believed to be at their most exalted equal brightness on this day.

Akshaya Tritiya is also called Navanna Parvam. Akshaya Tritiya falling on a Rohini star Monday is considered more auspicious.

Religious significance

In Hinduism, Akshay Tritiya was the day when Ganesha (Vinayaka), the god of wisdom and obstacle removal, started writing the epic Mahabharata to Ved Vyasa's dictation. This day is ruled by god Vishnu, the preserver-god in the Hindu Trinity. According to Hindu mythology, on this day the Treta Yuga began and the river Ganges, the most sacred river of India, descended to the earth from the heaven.

It was on this day that Goddess Annapoorna devi was born.

Kubera received his wealth and position as custodian of wealth and property with Goddess Lakshmi on this day, by praying to Lord Shiva at Shivapuram.

It is traditionally observed as the birthday of Parashurama, the sixth incarnation of god Vishnu. The Puranic scriptures speak about how he reclaimed the land from the sea.

In Mahabharata, Yudhishtira receives the Akshaya patra, which he uses to serve food for all the needy in his kingdom.

It is on this day that poor Sudama, the best friend of Krishna visits Him (Lord Krishna) to greet Him after He became the King. With nothing to offer, Sudama takes with him Poha (puffed rice) and offers it to his friend and never discusses his poverty though he intends to. On his return he finds his hut changed to a palace.

It is on this day that Dushasana, Duryodhana's brother, unveils Draupadi at the royal court where Krishna protects her providing the 'unending' veil...

In more recent history, Adi Shankara recited the Kanaka Dhara Stotr on this day for the sake of the poor couple at whose house he stopped for Bhiksha and was offered their only available gooseberry.

Goa and Konkan regions, even today, are referred to as Parushurama Kshetra. Akshaya Tritiya, the third day of the bright-half of the lunar month of Vaisakha is considered one of the most sacred days of the year.

In Odisha, on Akshay Tritiya day, farmers start ploughing their land and construction of chariots for Rath Yatra begins at Puri.

This day is generally observed by fasting and worship of Lord Vasudeva with rice grains. A dip in the river Ganges on this day is considered to be very auspicious.

The Vedic scriptures[where?] say that knowledge gained or charity done on Akshay Tritiya is very fruitful. It is considered to be a very lucky day to start new business or venture. Many people buy gold or property on this day.

Fasts are kept on this day and pujas are performed. In charity, fan, rice, salt, ghee, sugar, vegetables, tamarind, fruit, clothes, are given. The god Vishnu is worshiped. Tulsi water is sprinkled in the nearby area of the idol while performing aarti.

In Bengal, on the day of the Akshay Tritiya, "HalKhata" - a ceremony to start the new audit book is performed - with the worship of Ganesha and goddess Lakshmi. Bengalis perform many rites and rituals on this day.

This day is most auspicious day for the Jat farming community. Early morning, a male member of a Jat family goes to the field with a shovel. All the animals and birds encountered on the way to the field are omens and predictions for rains and crops. Akshay Tritiiya is an occasion for weddings, which are conducted in mass ceremonies. It is considered an unboojha muhurat.

It is believed that god Kubera, the treasurer of the gods, is the richest deity. Lakshmi Tantram says that even Kubera will pray to goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and consort of Vishnu, on Akshay Tritiya. A day-long Kubera Lakshmi Puja is performed in which an image of Lakshmi is worshiped with Sudarsana Kubera Yantra, symbolising Kubera.

On Akshay Trutiya, a king or those who have the responsibility of taking care of the subjects, should perform ‘puja’, with gratitude and devotion, of the picture of ‘Vaibhav-Lakshmi’ with Sree Vishnu as it helps to make the subjects happy and prosperous. "We are not graced by ‘Goddess Lakshmi’ as she is the divine energy (shakti) of Sree Vishnu. How can His ‘divine energy’ come here and bless us if Sree Vishnu is not invited? Therefore, before worshiping Sree Lakshmi in any of her forms, first invite Sree Vishnu and then invite Sree Lakshmi as the worshiper gets maximum benefit of Lakshmi-tattva" (principle).

Hanuman Jayanti

Hanuman Mantra:

Manojavam Maruttulyavegm

Jitendrium Buddhimatam Varishtham

Vatatmajam Vanarayuthmukhyam

Shri Ramdutam Sharanam Prapdye.

Hanuman Jayanti

Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated every year by the people in India to commemorate the birth of Hindu Lord, Hanuman. It is celebrated annually in the Hindi month of Chaitra (Chaitra Pournima) on 15th day of the Shukla Paksha.

Hanuman Jayanti 2014 would be celebrated by the people all over India on 15th of April, at Tuesday.

SMS on Hanuman Jayanti:

Hanuman Hai Naam Mahaan

Hanuman Kare Beda Paar

Jo Leta Hai Naam Bajrang Bali Ka

Sab Din Hote Uske Ek Samaan

Happy Hanuman Jayanti!
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Aaj Janam Divas hai Ram bhakt Hanuman ka,

Jisne jalayi vishal Lanka sift apni poonch se,

Aaj Janam Divas hai us Balwan ka,

Badhai ho Janam Din pyaare Hanuman Ka..!

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जै हनुमान ज्ञान गन सागर

जै कपीश तीहू लोक उजागर

राम दूत अतुलित बल धामा

अंजनी पुत्र पवन सूत नामा

जै श्री राम जै हनुमान..!

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May Hanuman bless U with his perseverance,

May he give U his strength &

May he grant U the art of Devotion As he had 4 Lord Rama

Best Wishes of Hanuman Jayanti..!

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श्री राम जै राम जै जै राम

हरे राम हरे राम हरे राम

हनुमान जी की तरह जपते जाओ

अपनी सारी मनोकामनाए पूरी करते जाओ,

शुभ हनुमान जयंती.

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May God Hanuman bless U

with Wisdom, Power and Strength

Happy Hanuman Jayanti..!

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Janam Divas Ram Bhakt Hunumaan ka,

Jalayi Vishal Lanka jisne sirf apni poonch se..

Janam Divas hai uss Balwaan kaa.

 Badhai ho Janam Divas Hunumaan Ka 

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Shri Ram Jai Ram Jai Jai Ram Hare Ram

 Hare Ram Hare Ram

 Hanuman Ji Ki Tarah Japte Jao

Apni Saari Badhaye Door Karte Jao

Shubh Hanuman Jayanti 

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Deendayal Beerdu Sambhari

 Harhu Nath Mamm Sankat Bhari

JAI SHRI RAM

Hanuman Jayanti Ki Hardik Shubh Kamnaye. 

How and When to Celebrate Hanuman Jayanti

Lord Hanuman, a dedicated disciple of the Hindu Lord Rama, is worshipped all over the India by the Hindu people for his deep devotion to the god Rama. At the day of Hanuman Jayanti celebration, all the Hanuman temples become full of crowd as people started puja from early morning after a holy bath. Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated with great enthusiasm by the people of Hindu religion as an important festival of the Hindus. It is a great Hindu ritual celebrated in cultural and traditional way.

People worship Lord Hanuman as a symbol of devotion, magical powers, strength and energy. People read Hanuman Chalisa as it has ability to conquer the evil spirits and provide peace to the mind. The devotees of Lord Hanuman visit Hanuman temples at this day after a holy in the early morning, apply red tilak (vermillion) to the foreheads of Hanuman idol, read Hanuman Chalisa, offer Prasad of laddoo, do Aarti by chanting mantras and Aarti songs, make round of the temple and so many rituals. As Lord Hanuman was born to the Vanara community having reddish orange color body, that’s why it is seen to all the Hanuman temples having reddish orange colored Hanuman idol. After puja, people apply red Sindur to their own foreheads as a Prasad and distribute laddoo Prasad among people to get blessed with what they have prayed to their God Hanuman.

In the Maharashtra, it is commemorated to the Purnima in the Hindu Lunar month of Chaitra. However, according to other Hindu calendar, it falls on 14th day (chaturdashi) of Ashvin month in the dark fortnight. After puja, Prasad is distributed among people to have full blessings.

In Tamil Nadu and Kerala, it is celebrated in Margazhi month (between December and January) in the belief that Lord Hanuman was born to the amavasya in the Margazhi month. In Odisha, it is celebrated on 1st day in the month of Baisakha (in April). In Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, it is celebrated on 10th day of Vaishaka month in the Krishna Paksha. It is the 41 days long celebration in the Andhra Pradesh which starts from the Chaitra Purnima and ends at 10th days of the Krishna Paksha of Vaishakha month.

Significance of Hanuman Jayanti Celebration

Hanuman Jayanti celebration indicates the balanced coexistence of the whole human fraternity with the nature’s incredible creature, Lord Hanuman from Vanara community. People from the Hindu religion worship Lord Hanuman as a divine creature. This celebration has lots of importance to all however Brahmacharis, wrestlers and bodybuilders are specially inclined towards this celebration. There are many names through which Lord Hanuman is famous among his devotees like Bajrangabali, Pavanasuta, Pavankumar, Mahavira, Balibima, Marutsuta, Anjanisut, Sankat Mochan, Anjaneya, Maruti, Rudra and many more.

Hanuman avatar is considered as the 11th Rudra avatar of the Lord Siva with great devotion, strength, knowledge, divine power, bravery, intelligence, spirit for selfless service and etc. He has devoted his life only for his Lord Rama and Mata Sita and never shows his bravery and intelligence without any purpose. The devotees of the Lord Hanuman always pray him for getting blessed with the same for their bright future. He is worshipped in many ways by his devotees; some meditates by repeating his name many times to get power, fame, success and etc in the life whereas some reads the Hanuman Chalisa to get the same.

Rama Navami

Rama Navami (Devanāgarī: राम नवमी) also known as Sri Rama Navami (IAST SriRām-navamī) is a Hindu festival, celebrating the birth of Lord Rama to King Dasharatha and Queen Kausalya of Ayodhya. Ram is the 7th incarnation of the Dashavatara of Vishnu.The Rama Navami festival falls in the Shukla Paksha on the Navami, the ninth day of the month of Chaitra in the Hindu calendar. Thus it is also known as Chaitra Masa Suklapaksha Navami, and marks the end of the nine-day Chaitra-Navratri celebrations. Rama navami is one of the most important festivals of the Hindus, particularly the Vaishnava sect of the Hindus.

At some places the festival lasts the whole nine days of the Navratras, thus the period is called 'Sri Rama Navratra'.It is marked by continuous recitals, Akhand Paath, mostly of the Ramacharitamanas, organized several days in advance to culminate on this day, with elaborate bhajan, kirtan and distribution of prasad after the puja and aarti. Images of infant form of Sri Rama are placed on cradles and rocked by devotees. Community Meals are also organized.Since Rama is the 7th incarnation of Vishnu who is the manifestation of Lord Krishna, having born at noon, temples and family shrines are elaborately decorated and traditional prayers are chanted together by the family in the morning. Also, at temples special havans are organized, along with Vedic chanting of Vedic mantras and offerings of fruits and flowers. Many followers mark this day by Vrata (fasting) through the day followed by feasting in the evening, or at the culmination of celebrations.In South India,in Bhadrachalam the day is also celebrated as the wedding anniversary of Sri Rama and his consort Sita. Sitarama Kalyanam, the ceremonial wedding ceremony of the Divine couple is held at temples throughout the south region, with great fanfare and accompanied by group chanting of name of Rama, (Rama nama smaranam). Whereas the marriage is celebrated in Mithila and Ayodhya during another day on Vivaha Panchami as per Valmiki Ramayana.

History

In the epic Ramayana, Dasharatha, the Emperor from Ayodhya, had three wives named Kausalya, Sumitra and Kaikeyi in the Treta Yuga, which follows the Satya Yuga and is succeeded by Dwapara Yuga. Their greatest worry was that they had no children, and so they had no heir to the throne in the Ikshvaku Kula or royal lineage of great, pious, wonderful Emperors. Rishi Vasistha suggests him to perform Puthra Kamesti Yagna, through which he can have a desired child. He also tells him to invite Maharshi Rishyasringa to perform this yagna for him. Emperor Dasharatha consents and heads to Maharshi Rishyasringa's ashram, to invite him. Maharshi agrees and accompanies Emperor Dasharatha to Ayodhya (Capital of Avadha) and performs the yagna. As the result of this yagna, Yagneshwara appears and provides Dasharatha a bowl of divine pudding (Kheer/Payasam) and requests him to give it to his wives. Dasharatha gives one half of the payasam to his elder wife Kausalya, and another half to his younger wife Kaikeyi. They both give half of their portions to Sumitra. After few days all three Queens conceive. On the ninth day (Navami) of Chaithra Masa (first month in Vedic calendar), at noon Kausalya gives birth to Rama, Kaikeyi gives birth to Bharata, and Sumitra to twin boys, Lakshmana and Shatrughna.

Rama is the seventh incarnation of Vishnu, who takes birth by His own will, on Bhuloka (Earth) when Adharma rules over Dharma. He protects all his devotees by vanquishing the roots of Adharma. Rama decided to incarnate to destroy an Asura or person with demonic and evil designs, called Ravana.

Birth Chart of Rama

Valmiki in his Sanskrit text Ramayana describes the natal or birth chart of young Rama, and this day is celebrated as Ramanavami festival throughout India and amongst Indian diaspora:
“On completion of the ritual six seasons have passed by and then in the twelfth month, on the ninth day of Chaitra month [March–April], when the presiding deity of ruling star of the day is Aditi, where the ruling star of day is Punarvasu (Nakshatra), the asterism is in the ascendant, and when five of the nine planets viz., Sun, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, and Venus are at their highest position, when Jupiter with Moon is ascendant in Cancer, and when day is advancing, then Queen Kausalya gave birth to a son with all the divine attributes like lotus-red eyes, lengthy arms, roseate lips, voice like drumbeat, and who took birth to delight the Ikshwaku dynasty, who is adored by all the worlds, and who is the greatly blessed epitome of Vishnu, namely Rama.”

Celebrations

Followers of Hinduism in South India normally perform Kalyanotsavam (marriage celebration) with small deities murtis of Rama and Sita in their homes, and at the end of the day the deity is taken to a procession on the streets. This day also marks the end of the nine-day utsava called Chaitra Navaratri (Maharashtra) or Vasanthothsava (Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka & Tamil Nadu) (festival of Spring), which starts with Gudi Padwa (Maharashtra). According to recent astrological studies, some consider his date of birth to be January 10, 5114 B.C.E.

Some highlights of this day include

•     Kalyanam, a ceremonial wedding performed by temple priests
•     Panakam, a sweet drink prepared on this day with jaggery and pepper.
•     Procession of murtis in the evening, accompanied by playing with water and colours.

For the occasion, Followers of Hinduism fast or restrict themselves to a specific diet in accordance to VedaDharma. Vedic temples are decorated and readings of the Ramayana take place. Along with SriRama, people also worship Sita, Rama's wife; Lakshmana, Rama's brother; and Hanuman, an ardent devotee of Rama and the leader of his army in the battle against the asura Ravana.

Some people put a small idol of Rama in a cradle, symbolising the significance of the day and offer prayers to it. Community meals are also organised.

SriRama Navami is dedicated to remembering Rama, as the most supreme with resolute Bhakti (devotion). It occurs on the ninth day, or navami, beginning count from the "no moon day" or Amavasya, during the waxing moon duration called "Shukla Paksha". Sri Rama Navami generally occurs in the months of March and April. Celebrations and festivities begin with prayer to the Surya Deva early in the morning. At midday, when Rama incarnated on that day in Treta Yuga, that duration is special and hence devotional service to him is performed with Bhakti and piety.

The Kalyanam performed in the Bhadrachalam Temple, in Andhra Pradesh is very famous.

A number of ISKCON temples introduced a more prominent celebration of the occasion of the holiday with the view of addressing needs of growing native Hindu congregation. It is however always was a notable calendar event on the traditional Gaurabda calendar with a specific additional requirement of fasting by devotees.


Sri Rama Navami is shared with Swaminarayan Jayanti, the birth of Swaminarayan, who was born in the village of Chhapaiya in the state of Uttar Pradesh.

Gudi Padwa

Gudhi Padva, is the Marathi name for Chaitra Shukla Pratipada.It is celebrated on the first day of the Chaitra month to mark the beginning of the New year according to the lunisolar Hindu calendar. This day is also the first day of Chaitra Navratri and Ghatasthapana also known as Kalash Sthapana is done on this day.

The word Padwa comes from the sanskrit word  पड्ड्वा/पाड्ड्वो(pāḍḍavā/pāḍḍavo, which stands for the first day of the bright phase of the moon called प्रतिपदा (pratipadā) in Sanskrit.

In south India, first day of the bright phase of the moon is called pa?yapāḍya(Tamil: பாட்ய or பாட்டமி , Kannada: ಪಾಡ್ಯ, Telugu: పాడ్యమి, paadyami,Konkani: पाड्यॆ,ಪಾಡ್ಯ). KKonkani Hindus variously refer to the day as संसर पाडवो or संसर पाड्यॆ (saṁsāra 'pāḍavo/ saṁsāra pāḍye),संसार (saṁsāra) being a corruption of the word संवत्सर (saṁvatsara). Konkani Hindus in Karnataka also refer to it as उगादि, ಯುಗಾದಿ(ugādi).

On Guḍhī Pāḍavā, a gudhi is found sticking out of a window or otherwise prominently displayed in traditional Maharashtrian households. Bright green or yellow cloth adorned with brocade (zari) tied to the tip of a long bamboo over which gaathi (sugar crystals), neem leaves[citation needed], a twig of mango leaves and a garland of red flowers is tied. A silver or copper pot is placed in the inverted position over it. Altogether, it is called as Gudhi. It is hoisted outside the house, in a window, terrace or a high place so that everybody can see it.

Some of the significances attributed to raising a Gudhi are as follows:

    Maharashtrians also see the Gudhi as a symbol of victory associated with the conquests of the Maratha forces led by Chhatrapati Shivaji. It also symbolizes the victory of King Shalivahana over Sakas and was hoisted by his people when he returned to Paithan.

    Gudhi symbolizes the Brahmadhvaj (translation: Brahma’s flag) mentioned in the Brahma Purana, because Lord Brahma created the universe on this day. It may also represent Indradhvaj (translation: the flag of Indra).
    Mythologically, the Gudhi symbolizes Lord Rama’s victory and happiness on returning to Ayodhya after slaying Ravana. Since a symbol of victory is always held high, so is the gudhi (flag). It is believed that this festival is celebrated to commemorate the coronation of Rama post his return to Ayodhya after completing 14 years of exile.

    Gudhi is believed to ward off evil, invite prosperity and good luck into the house.

The Gudhi is positioned on the right side of the main entrance of the house. The right side symbolizes active state of the soul.

On the festive day, courtyards in village houses will be swept clean and plastered with fresh cow-dung. Even in the city, people take the time out to do some spring cleaning. Women and children work on intricate rangoli designs on their doorsteps, the vibrant colours mirroring the burst of colour associated with spring. Everyone dresses up in new clothes and it is a time for family gatherings.

Traditionally, families are supposed to begin the festivities by eating the bittersweet leaves of the neem tree. Sometimes, a paste of neem leaves is prepared and mixed with dhane, gul/gur (known as jaggery in English), and tamarind. All the members of the family consume this paste, which is believed to purify the blood and strengthen the body’s immune system against diseases.

Maharashtrian families also make shrikhand and Poori or Puran Poli on this day. Konkanis make Kanangachi Kheer, a variety of Kheer made of sweet potato, coconut milk, jaggery, rice flour, etc. and Sanna.

Rajasthan Day Celebration

Rajasthan Day is celebrated on 30th March every year with lot of enthusiasm and many exciting and colourful events. These include cultural, classical and theatre events.

Rajasthan was formed on 30 March 1949. In significance of this and to make people of Rajasthan have a sense of pride in their state, this day is celebrated as a week long festival. The festival is jointly organized by Rajasthan government and Jaipur Virasat foundation. Main ceremony is performed in Jaipur, as it’s the capital of state but other major cities like Udaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Jaisalmer are also covered in the same vibration of festival for week long.

On 30th March 1949 Rajasthan was formed after merger of 22 princely states.Formation of present Rajasthan has passed through various stages. After independence in 1947 huge efforts were done by the government for uniting the divided states of Rajasthan. The process of integration  that started from March 17, 1948 lasted till November 1, 1956. The then 19 provinces ofRajasthan at the time of independence have now become a united state comprising 33 districts.Rajasthan is the biggest state(Geographically) of India. More than 50 stamps on various themes have been issued after independence on various themes of this colorful state.

PROGRAME(unconfirmed):
1. National Level Puppet Show : 29 & 30 Mar 2014: Jawahar Kala Kendra (JKK)
2. Bharatnatyam Dance by eminent artist : 29 March evening: Jawahar Kala Kendra (JKK)
3. Performance by renowned singers and musicians : 29/30 March Evening (around 6.30 PM): Central Park
4. Well Known Plays (theatre): 29th and 30 March Evenings: Pratap Sabha Ghar and Ravindra Manch

Please confirm Above Event with Rajasthan Tourism official site: http://www.rajasthantourism.gov.in/

Happy Holi Messages

Holi Festival 2014 SMS | Latest Holi Festival Text Messages :

 Holi is one of the colorful festival of india. Holi is celebrated in all over the india irrespective of the age and religion, that’s why it is one of the most likable festival.

Our ancestors says that, holi brings color, joy and new bringing to our life, hence we should celebrate holi with good thinking and blessing. On that day, people uses to send happy holi wishes sms to their relatives, friends and related circle. For that, they use internet as major source. For that, they search for holi festival 2014 sms , holi latest text messages, latest holi text messages, holi festival sms. Hence we are making their problem fix by providing this post with holi festival sms in english 2014.

 So you can download them for free and send Holi Festival 2014 SMS   in your circle to wish them happy holi.

Bright colors, water balloons, lavish gujiyas and melodious songs are the ingredients of perfect Holi. Wish you a very happy and wonderful Holi.

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May God gift you all the colors of life, colors of joy, colors of happiness, colors of friendship, colors of love and all other colors you want to paint in your life. Happy Holi.

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If wishes come in rainbow colors then I would send the brightest one to say Happy Holi.

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A true and caring relation doesn’t have to speak loud, a soft sms is just enough to express the heartiest feelings. Enjoy the festival of Holi with lot of fun.

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A touch of green i send to u.

A drop of blue to cool the hue.

A tinge of red for warmth

&

zest for a colorful HOLI!

Happy & Colorful Holi.

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May god paint the canvas of your life with the most vibrant colors and sprinkle peace and joy at every step. HAPPY HOLI.

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 Wish you colors of life Let there be… WHITE of LOVE & PEACE GREEN of MONEY YELLOW of FAME RED of POWER and mix of all to remember good people. * Happy Holi *

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Khushi ke is pal mein ye dil bas muskuraye Har gum bhula ke pyar bhare sapne sajaye In hasin palo ki khushboo is dil ko bahut bhaye Shaayad in palo ka sangam hi jannat kehlaye… Happy Holi Mosam shabab da, Nasha sharab da, kurta janab da rang gulal da holi ch dekhna ki haal karange aap da Happy holi 2014 

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Meri pichkari aur rang ho tumhare par

Hai na kisi jaat ki holi

Mubarak ho aapko happy holi

Happy Holi 2014

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Pichkari Ki Dhar Ho Aap Pe,

Rangoon Bochhar Ho Aap Pe,

Khush Rahen Aap Aur Aap Ka Parivar,

Mubarak Ho Aap Ko HOLI Ka Tehwar,

Wishing You A Very Very

HAPPY HOLI To You & Your Family.

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Pyar Sneh Samarpan Dular Mohabbat

Sadbhawna Sadvichar In Saat Rango Ki

Rahe Baucchar Aaj Ka Din Laye Aapke Jeevan

Me Satrangi Bahar. Happy Holi

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Chandan Ki Khushbu, Resham Ka Haar!

Fagun Ki Fhuhaar, Rango Ki Bhahar!

Dil Ki Ummide Apno Ka Pyaar

Mubaarak Ho Apako “Holi Ka Tyohaar

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Aise Manana Holi Ka Tyohar

Pichkari Se Barse Sirf Pyar.

Ye Hai Mauka Apno Se Gale Milane Ka

To Gulal Or Rang Lekar Ho Jao Taiyar

Happy Holi Baar-Baar!!

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A Colourful Message,

To A Colourful Person,

For Colourful Day,

In A Colourful Way,

As A Pray,

That The Colourful Ray,

May Forever Stay – “Happy Holi

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Dil Mai Utha Tufan Bheja Hai,

Aapse Na Mil Pane Ka Malal Bheja Hai

Waqt Mile To Thoda Sa Yaad Karna

Aapke Dost Ne Holi Ka Ram Ram Bheja Hai

Happy Holi Hai Ji!!

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आज पिचकारी मेरे हाथ है बच ना पाओगे

मेरे गुलाल से बच कर ना जाने पाओगे

अगर जो मुझ से दूर भागकर जाओगे तो

रंग भरे गुब्बारे से तर बतर कर दिए जाओगे

happy Holi 2014 !

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मेरे हाथों में हो गुलाल और हो चेहरा तुम्हारा

लगाऊं रंग जिसे मैं प्यार से, हो चेहरा तुम्हारा

वैसे तो मेरे मन में बसी है तेरी सूरत

फिर भी सब से जुदा रंग लिए हो चेहरा तुम्हारा

happy Holi 2014 !

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तुम्हे जो पास बुलाऊं तो मना मत करना

तुम्हें जो रंग लगाऊं तो मना मत करना

साल भर मैने इस दिन का इंतेज़ार किया है कैसे

ये मैं ही जानता हूँ, होली खेलने से मना मत करना

happy Holi 2014 !