HINDU GODS

Showing posts with label HINDU FESTIVAL. Show all posts
Showing posts with label HINDU FESTIVAL. Show all posts

Wednesday, November 05, 2008

KANDA SHASTI VIRATHAM

Skanda Shasti or Kanda Shasthi Vrata

Kanda Shasthi Vratam is an important observance to LORD KARTHIKEYA. It is observed in the Tamil month of Aippasi ,after Deepavali( October - November) and most devotees fast during the 6-day period.

In addition to the Skanda Sashti, devotees of Lord Subramanya observe weekly and monthly days in His honour. Every Friday, or the Kartigai Nakshatram day every month, or the sixth day of the bright fortnight,-all these are sacred days for His devotees. The sixth day of the month of Tulam (October-November) is the most auspicious of them all. This is the Skanda Sashti day.

There is no common method of Skanda Shasti fasting. Different devotees observe it differently. But there are some basic rules followed by all the devotees.Non-vegetarian food is completely avoided during the period. Those who are observing the fast make it a point to read scriptures related to Lord karthikeyan ( Kanta Shasti Kavasam or Subramaniya Bhujangam,kandaguru kavasam,kanda puranam.)Most devotees also visit Skanda temples during the period.

Sashti: Sashti is the sixth phase of moon. This is an auspicious day for lord Muruga. According to the legend, Lord Muruga slayed the demon Soorapadman on sashti and every sashti is devoted to Lord karthikeya. This vratham is observed by all devotees of Lord karthikeya. This vratham is observed to get progeny

Kanda Shasti fasting, some devotees only take a single meal a day. Some take the meal at noon and others at night. Some devotees take only fruits and juices ,coconut water and lime juice,during the 6-day period.

The Shasti fasting begins with sunrise. The fast is broken on the next day morning after praying to Lord Surya (Sun God).Most people observing the fast make it a point to visit Murugan Temple on this day. It is a complete fast in many places. But this might not be quite possible for many people due to job, health and other reasons. So many people take some sort of vegetarian food on this day – this is usually a single meal in the afternoon or night.
Many people take for a fruit diet on the day. Some avoid solid food.In several Kerala Muruga temples, many devotees eat a single rice meal at noon given from the temple. The cooked rice is consumed without any major side dishes.The method of fasting differs from region to region. But all non-vegetarian food is avoided on the day.
Devotees listen to stories related to Skanda and reading of Skanda Purana. Another activity during the day is the reciting of Kanta Shasti Kavasam.
Fasting is not just abstaining from food but it also an attempt to instill positive thoughts. Many people use fasting as a means to fight against anger, lust, impatience and other negative tendencies. All Vratas associated with Hindu religion is an attempt to realize the Brahman.
Kanda Shasti Vratam is observed once a year in the month of ‘Aippasi’ (October–November) starting from the ‘piratamai’ the 1st phase of the brightening moon.Of all Kanda temples it is the one in Tirunchendur in Tamil Nadu, India that draws the largest number of Kanda devotees. All roads, at the time of the Vratam, seem to lead to Tirunchendur. Beside the temple by the sea there appears to be a sea of heads. The Kantan's Tiruvilaiyaadal (divine sport) Soora Samharam is enacted during the sixth day of the festival. This is a drama to grant a great boon to Curapatman by Kantan. Curapatman is given the honour of becoming Kantan's vehicle mayil vahanam (peacock vehicle) and ceval kodi (the rooster on Kantan’s flag).Skanda shasti means trimph of lord Subhramanya over the evil sura padma.The son of lord Siva killed the demon sura padma with his holy spear(vel) and brought relief and joy to the suffering demi Gods and humanity.Allegorially the vel represents Jana sakti(Power of wisdom) of the lord. Sura padma the demon of ego and ignorance with in us. Lord subhramanya is hence considered to be the personification of wisdom itself. The five days prior to skanda shashti are days of severe austerities for the devotees of Muruga. The day after skanda shshti is celebrated as Deva sena Kalyanam

This is celebrated with great eclat in temples, especially in the six places sacred to Muruga .
(Aaru padai veedu, in Tamil) -

Tiruchendur, http://tiruchendur.org/
Tirupparankunram, http://murugan.org/temples/parankundram.htm
Pazhamudir solai, http://www.templenet.com/Tamilnadu/m003.html
Palani, http://palani.org/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palani
Swamimalai, http://murugan.org/temples/swamimalai.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Swamimalai
and Tiruttani. http://murugan.org/temples/tiruttani.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tiruttani
The glory of Lord Muruga from one of the six scriptures in His praise, namely: Tirumurukarruppadai, Kandar Kalivenba, Kandar Anubhuti, Kandar Alankaram, Kanda Sashti Kavacam and Kanda Puranam.

Sattiyila irundha agapayil varum( this proverb is mostly misunderstood like only if something is there in the vessel it would come in the spoon) actually the proverb means if u follow sashti viratham ( it comes twice in a month) one would concieve.sashti viradhamirundhal agapai(uterus) il varum.





http://www.sivanandadlshq.org/religions/skanda.htm

http://www.indiadivine.org/articles/420/1/Kanda-Shasti-Vratam/Page1.html

http://www.sriveeramakaliamman.com/festivals.htm#m

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

RAKSHA BANDAN-RAKHI




Rakhi Festival is celebrated both in India and different parts of world with fervour and enthusiasm. The day is celebrated with sister's tying rakhi on their brother's wrist, performing arti and also praying for their long life. In turn, brothers vow to protect their sisters and come for their rescue in times of need.
It is the celebration of brothers and sisters. It is one festival that primarily The sisters tie that thread of love to their brothers amongst chanting of mantras, put roli and rice on his forehead and pray for his well being. She bestows him with gifts and blessings. The brother also wishes her a good life and pledges to take care of her. He gives her a return gift. The gift is the physical acceptance of her love, reminder of their togetherness and a symbol of his pledge. The legends and the reference in history repeated, the significance of the festival is emphasized belongs to the North and Western regions of India but celebrated throughout the country
In Northern India, Rakhi Purnima is also called Kajri Purnima or Kajri Navami, when wheat or barley is sown, and goddess Bhagwati is worshipped. In Western states, the festival is called Nariyal Purnima or the Coconut Full Moon. In Southern India, Shravan Purnima is an important religious occasion, especially for the Brahmins.
Raksha Bandhan is known by various names: Vish Tarak - the destroyer of venom, Punya Pradayak - the bestower of boons, and Pap Nashak - the destroyer of sins

Sravani is an ancient Vedic festival traditionally associated with the Brahmins on which day they change their sacred thread. Both Raksha Bandhan and Sravani are celebrated on the full moon day of the month of Shravan (August).Rakshabandhan or Rakhi which is celebrated on a full moon day in the month of Sravan (August) is a day when brothers and sisters reaffirm their bonds of affection. It is usually a festival of the Hindus though today people from different religions participate as well.Once, Indra was confronted by the demon king - the Daitya-raaja - in a long-drawn battle. At one stage, the Daitya-raaja got better of Indra and drove him into wilderness. Indra, humbled and crest-fallen, sought the advice of Brihaspati, the Guru of Gods. The Guru told him to bide his time, prepare himself and then march against his adversary. He also indicated that the auspicious moment for sallying forth was the Shraavana Poornima. On that day, Shachee Devi, the wife of Indra, and Brihaspati tied Raakhis around Indra's right-wrist. Indra then advanced against the Daitya-raaja, vanquished him and reestablished his sovereignty.
Sisters tie colourful threads or rakhis on their brother's wrists. The brothers in turn promise to protect their sisters and give them gifts. Around mid-August, on Shravan Purnima, Once, Indra was confronted by the demon king - the Daitya-raaja - in a long-drawn battle. At one stage, the Daitya-raaja got better of Indra and drove him into wilderness. Indra, humbled and crest-fallen, sought the advice of Brihaspati, the Guru of Gods. The Guru told him to bide his time, prepare himself and then march against his adversary. He also indicated that the auspicious moment for sallying forth was the Shraavana Poornima. On that day, Shachee Devi, the wife of Indra, and Brihaspati tied Raakhis around Indra's right-wrist. Indra then advanced against the Daitya-raaja, vanquished him and reestablished his sovereignty. Hindus all over celebrate Raksha Bandhan. "Raksha" means protection, "bandhan" means bound or binding. The festival is also known as Balev.Raksha Bandhan is celebrated in different forms in different areas and it is also known by the names like rakhi, rakhri and saluno.

'Raksha (protection) Bandhan' (band) (a festival celebrated in north India) in August) signifies the sanctity of the blood relation between a brother and his sister. In the month of August every year, sisters tie raakhi (band) on the wrists of their brothers in a reaffirmation of this relationship. They wish each other's well-being and the brother vows to go to his sister's aid whenever the need may arise.
As per the traditions, the sister on this day prepares the pooja thali with diya, roli, chawal and rakhis. She worships the deities, ties Rakhi to the brother(s) and wishes for their well-being. The brother in turn acknowledges the love with a promise to be by the sisters' side through thick and thin and gives her a token gift. Raksha Bandhan tightens the bond of love between the sister and brother
Raksha Bandhan is celebrated on the full-moon day in the month of Sravan (July- August). This day symbolises love, affection and a feeling of brotherhood and sisters tie a piece of thread, called rakhi around the wrist of their brothers, praying for their long life and happiness. This tradition of tying a rakhi has been coming down through the ages, since the vedic times.

HISTORY

The festival nurtures a rich heritage of legendary traditions, some rooted back to the ages of the great epics. In the Hindu tradition the Rakshaa has indeed assumed all aspects of protection of the forces of righteousness from the forces of evil.According to the Mahabharata, Yudhishthira, the eldest of the Pancha Pandyava (the five brothers belonging to the family of king Pandu), asked Sri Krishna, an incarnation of lord Vishnu, how best he could guard himself against impending evils and catastrophes in the coming year. Krishna advised him to observe the Rakshaa Ceremony. He also narrated an old incident to show how potent the Rakshaa is. It went like this.Once, Indra, the king of heaven was confronted by the demon king - the Daitya-raaja - in a long-drawn battle. At one stage, the Daitya-raaja got better of Indra and drove him into wilderness. Indra, humbled and crest-fallen, sought the advice of Brihaspati, the Guru of Gods. The Guru told him to bide his time, prepare himself and then take on the mighty demon. He also indicated that the auspicious moment for sallying forth was the Shraavana Poornima. On that day, Shachee Devi, the wife of Indra, accompanied by Brihaspati tied Raakhi around Indra's right-wrist. Indra then advanced against the Daitya-raaja, vanquished him and reestablished his sovereignty.This is how Raksha Bandhan came into being in the ages of old Hindu mythology and has transcended into the modern ages acquiring more of new and modified customs with itself. The oldest story may have roots in the days when devas (gods) and asuras (non-gods) were engaged in a fierce struggle to dominate the creation. Indra, the king of devas, was defeated several times. Indrani, his consort, then did penance and prepared a bond of protection which she tied on the wrist of Indra. With the help of its power he defeated the asuras.
Another mythological story tells how Bali, the ruler of the earth, had to give away his whole empire to God Vishnu who appeared to him as a dwarf. Raksha Bandhan is believed to mark that event as well.

In the Hindu tradition the Rakshaa has indeed assumed all aspects of protection of the forces of righteousness from the forces of evil. Once, Yudhishthira asked Sri Krishna how best he could guard himself against impending evils and catastrophes in the coming year. Krishna advised him to observe the Rakshaa Ceremony. He also narrated an old incident to show how potent the Rakshaa is.







http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raksha_Bandhan

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rakhi

http://hinduism.about.com/library/weekly/aa080800a.htm
RAKSHA-BANDHAN

Friday, June 27, 2008

PRADOSHAM



Pradhosha pooja is one of the most important among the poojas performed to the Graceful Lord Shiva. In Shukla Paksha (15 moon days from New moon to Full moon) and Krishna Paksha (15 moon days from Full moon to New moon) the evening of the trayodasi (thirteenth moon day) between 4.30 p.m. to 6.00 p.m. is called Pradhosha. It comes once in fifteen moon days. Pradhosha time is especially meant for praying Lord Shiva. Praying in that time will free us from out sins and gives moksha finally (hence the name Pradhosha).
Pradhosham occurs twice a month - once during the Growing Moon Period and the other during the Waning Moon Period. This denotes the meeting of the Sun and the Moon in a Horizontal Line during the course of movement on their Axis.


Story of Pradhosha
Once Dhevas and Asuras using the serpent Vasuki and the hill Mandhara were trying to get Amrutham (nector) from the Kseerabthi (milk ocean). Then the terrible poison Halahalam came up. All got frightened and pleaded to Lord Shiva for rescue. Being the peak of mercy Lord Shiva ate that poison. Then as per His order they resumed their effort to get Amrutham. They got it on Dhwadhasi (twelfth moon day). Without praying and thanking the God, by whom they got Amrutham, Devas started dancing and celebrating their victory.
On thrayodhasi (thirteenth moon day) they realised their sin of not praying the God and pleaded for forgiveness. The pleased graceful Lord Shiva forgave them and danced between the horns of the Nandhi (holy bull). That time is called Pradhosham. Whoever prays Lord Shiva in that time, Lord Shiva fulfills their wishes and give them mukthi.All the Devas & Gods are assembled in the Shiva temples during Pradosham time. Further, the first pradosham was on a Saturday & hence "Sani Pradosham" is even more auspicious .


Everyday between 5.30 to 6.00 pm in the evening is called Dina Pradosham. Every thirteenth day of a Paksha (15-day cycle, making it two Pakshas every month - Krishna Paksha and Shukla Paksha) is called Maha Pradosham. The time between 5.30 to 6.30 pm in the evening is called Pradosham (Dina Pradosham). During the Pradosha period, it is significant to worship Lord Shiva, as He performs the Holy Dance in Kailashparvatam. [Mount Kailash , all Devatas assemble there to watch this holy event, offer their Prayers to HIM. Thinking and meditating during Pradosha Kalam is considered most sacred by Hindus and helps derive benefits of having worshipped all Devatas at one go.
During Prodhosha time (Abhishekam)

Shiva deity with the following is considered fruitful.
Milk gives long life
Ghee gives Moksha state
Curd gives good children
Honey gives melodious voice
Rice powder frees from debts
Sugar cane juice gives good health
Panjamrutham gives wealth
Lemon removes fear of death
Sugar removes enmity
Tender coconut gives enjoyment
Cooked Rice(Annam) gives majestic life
Sandal gives Lakshmi's grace
Bilvam leaves and flowers (Arali,Lily ,Rose Petals,Chaamanti, Malli,Lotus flower (Tamarai) be given for Shiva pooja. Please went the to Shiva temple for every Pradhosham and earn his blessings. You would get blessings equivalent to 1000 blessings by this single worship. The sani pradhosham is the most special and all sins could be dissolved.First worship the Nandi and then worship the Siva.That day observe the fast.whole day only don't take any meal .(eating only fruits and taking milk)Evening went to the temple on that day worship siva and nandi ,and return home finish the fast .

First worship the Rishabha Devar (Holy Bull or Nandi) go anti-clockwise and salute Chandishwarar (not crossing the Gomukhi). Now return in the clockwise manner salute Rishabham and continue clockwise till the Gomukhi (not to cross it again). Then return in anti-clockwise direction salute the Rishabham again and proceed towards chandIshar. From there return back clockwise without worshiping Rishabham and reach the gomukhi. Finally return back anticlockwise from there to salute Rishabham and continue to Chandishwarar and return back to Rishabham and worship the shiva lingam (at the altar) by viewing through the space between the two horns of the Holy Bull. This is one Pradakshinam. Three such times Pradakshinam to be done.
If you carefully observe the curve traced by doing the pradakshinam is very similar to the periphery of the crescent. Hence this way of circumambulating is called Somasutra Pradakshinam.
Pradosha Mahatmyam
[From Shiva Purana]Translated by P. R. Ramachander*
Kailasa shaila bhuvane thri jaga janithreem,
Gowreedha nivesye kanakanchitha rathna peete,
Nrutham vidhthu mabhi vanchithi Soolapanau,
Deva Pradosha samaye anubhajanthi sarve. 1
(During the time of Pradosha,The Lord who holds the trident,Makes Goddess Gowri,Who is the mother of all the three worlds,Sit on a golden seat inlaid with precious gems,And prepares to dance himself,And all the devas sing his praise at this time.)
Vagdevi drutha vallaakee sathamukhovenum dhadhan padmaja,
Sthallo nidhra karo ramaa bhagawathi,geya prayogaanvithaa,
Vishnu saandra mrudanga vaadana paturdevas samanthath sthithaa,
Sevanthe thamara pradosha samayedevam mrudaaneepathim. 2
(The goddess of Knowledge plays Veena,The hundred faced Indra plays the flute,The Brahma who was born in a lotus keeps time,The Goddess Lakshmi starts to sing,The God Vishnu plays the drum with ease,And all the devas stand all round in service,And pray Lord Shiva during the time of pradosha.)
Gandarwa Yaksha patha goraga siddha saadhya.
Vidhyadaraamaraapsaraso ganaascha,
Yeanyethi loka nilaya saha bhootha varga,
Prapthe pradosha samaye hara parswa samstha. 3
(When the time of Pradosha arrives,Gandarwas, Yakshas, birds, snakes, saints,Vidhyadaras, devas, the celestial dancers, Bhoothas,And all the beings in the three worlds,Come and stand near The Lord Shiva.)
Atha pradoshe shiva eka eva,
Poojyodhananye hari padmajadhya,
Thasmin mahese vidhinejyamane,
Sarve praseedanthi suradhi natha. 4
(So at the time of Pradosha,There is need to worship only Shiva,Instead of Vishnu , Brahma and others,For the proper worship of Lord Shiva then,Would give the effect of worshipping all gods.)
Lokanahooya sarvaan vividha damarukair gora samsara magnan,
Dathwaabheetham dayalu pranatha bhava haram kunchitham vaama bhaagam,
Uddruthyedham vimukherayanamithi karadarshayan prathyayartham,
Bibradwanhim sabhaayaam kalaathi natanam ya shivo na sa paayal. 5
(Let us be protected by that dancing Shiva,Who uses the various sounds of the shaking drum,To call all those people drowned in the fearful life,Who indicates protection to them using his right hand held down,Who lifts his left leg capable of killing all sorrows,To those who fall at his feet,Who indicates the path of salvation by his left hand held up,And who shows that all this is true by carrying fire in the other left hand,)
Sathyam braveemi, paraloka hitham braveemi,
Saaram braveemi upanishadyadhyam braveemi,
Samsaramuthbanamasar vaapya jantho,
Saroyameeswarapadhamburuhasya seva. 6
(I tell the truth,I tell what is good for the other world,I tell the views of the Upanishads,For every insignificant animal that is born,The only meaningful thing is the service to God.)Yenarchayanthi gireesam samaye pradoshe,
Ye na architham shivamapi pranamanthichanye,
Ethath kadhaam sruthi putair na pibanthi mooda,
Stheya janma subhavanthi naraa daridra. 7
(He who does not worship Lord Shiva during Pradosha,He who does not at least bow before him at that time,He who does not at least listen to the story of Shiva at that time,Is a foolish soul who would be always poor, birth after birth.)
Ye vai pradosha samaye parameswarasya,
Kurvanthyananya mansangri saroja poojaam,
Nithya pravrudha thara puthra kalathra mithra,
Soubhagya sambadadhikastha ihaiva loke. 8
(He who during the time of Pradosha, worships Lord Shiva,With full concentration using lotus flowers,Would forever along with his children, wife and friends,Get all wealth and all luck in a very large measure.

Saturday, March 15, 2008

THE COLORFUL FESTIVAL OF HOLI




The colorful festival of Holi

Holi 2008 : Saturday, March 22
The festival of Holi is celebrated on the day after the full moon in early March every year.
Holi is one of the oldest Hindu festivals.


The story centres around an arrogant king who resents his son Prahlada worshipping Lord Vishnu. He attempts to kill his son but fails each time. Finally, the king's sister Holika who is said to be immune to burning, sits with the boy in a huge fire. However, the prince Prahlada emerges unscathed, while his aunt burns to death. Holi commemorates this event from mythology, and huge bonfires are burnt on the eve of Holi as its symbolic representation
Story Of Holika and Prahlad:
There was a demon-king named Hiranyakashipu .who won over the kingdom of earth and ordered everybody to worship him and not the God. However, his little son Prahlad refused to do so and continued to worship the almighty Lord Vishnu, the Hindu God. He tried many times to kill him but Lord Vishnu saved him every time. One of the sisters of the king named Holika had powers to walk through fire unharmed. Thus he ordered her to kill Prahlad by walking through the fire with him. However, Lord VISHNU came to his help and Prahlad was saved while Holika perished. Somehow, she didn't knew that her powers were only effective if she entered the fire alone. Even today, bonfires are lit on the night of Holi in memory of the event and burning of the wicked aunt Holika.
LORD VISHNU

Holi is spread out over two days (it used to be five, and in some places it is longer). The entire holiday is associated with a loosening of social restrictions normally associated with caste, sex, status and age. Holi thus bridges social gaps and brings people together: employees and employers, men and women, rich and poor, young and old.

On the evening of the first day of Holi, a public bonfire is held, commemorating the burning of Holika. Traditionally, Hindu boys spend the weeks prior to Holi combing the neighborhood for any waste wood they can find for the bonfire. The fire is lit sometime between 10 PM and midnight (at the rising of the moon), not generally in an orderly fashion. Everyone gathers in the street for the event, and the air rings with shouts, catcalls, curses and general mayhem.
The central ritual of Holi is the throwing and applying of colored water and powders on friends and family, which gives the holiday its common name "Festival of Colors."

In Bengal, Holi features the Dolayatra (Swing Festival), in which images of the gods are placed on specially decorated platforms and devotees take turns swinging them. In the meantime, women dance around and sing special songs as men spray colored water at them.



This exuberant festival is also associated with the immortal love of Krishna and Radha,
Story Of Radha and Krishna:
Lord Krishna was dark while his spiritual love-mate Radha had fair-complexion. So child Krishna often used to complain about the injustice of nature towards him to his mother Yashoda and would ask her the reason. One day, Yashoda suggested Krishna to apply color on Radha's face and changeher complexion in any color he desired. The naughty Krisha immediately set off to his mission and one can often see paintings and murals depicting Krishna throwing colors on Radha and other 'gopis'. This lovable prank of throwing colored powder and water jets called 'pichkaris' soon gained favor with the peotradition of Holi. This is the reason that people often carry images of Krishna and Radha through the streets. The Holi of Mathura region, where Krishna was born, has a special fervor.

Holi is observed all over the north, it's celebrated with special joy and zest at Mathura, Vrindavan, Nandgaon, and Barsnar. These towns once housed the divine Krishna. Each area celebrates Holi differently; the Bhil tribesmen of western Madhya Pradesh, who've retained many of their pre-Hindu customs, celebrate holi in a unique way.
In rural Maharashtra State, where the festival is known as Rangapanchami it is celebrated with dancing and singing.
In the towns of Rajasthan — especially Jaisalmer — the music's great, and clouds of pink, green, and turquoise powder fill the air. The grounds of Jaisalmer's Mandir Palace are turned into chaos, with dances, folk songs, and colored-powder confusion.
Story Of Kamadeva:
After the death of his consort Sati, Lord Shiva was so shocked and hurt that he went into a deep meditation and stopped looking after his worldly responsibilities. This led to many complications in the world's affairs. Thus, gods conspired to bring him out of his trance with the help of Goddess Parvati, who wished to marry the great lord and Kamadeva, the God of love, passion and lust. Though, mindful of the consequences, Kamadeva undertook the task for the world's good and shot one of his love arrows on the great Lord who had mastered all the worldly temptations. As Shiva's eyes opened, he was furious by the trick of Kamdeva and directed the wrath of his third eye on him and burned him on the spot. However, later he did give him an immortal life. It is believed that Lord Shiva burned Kamadeva on the day of Holi and thus, many people worship him for his sacrifice and offer him a mango blossoms that he loved and sandalwood paste to cool off the pain of his fatal burns.

The colorful festival of Holi is celebrated on Phalgun Purnima which comes in February end or early March. Holi festival has an ancient origin and celebrates the triumph of 'good' over 'bad'. The colorful festival bridges the social gap and renew sweet relationships. On this day, people hug and wish each other 'Happy Holi'. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holi
Popular Holi songs from Bollywood
BOLLEYWOOD CLASSIC OLD SONG

Thursday, February 28, 2008

MAHA SHIVARATRI

MAHA SHIVARATRI

Sivaratri is Hindu festival.The night of siva.This festival celebrated throughout the country in

India.Maha Shivarati . it is particularly popular in Uttar Pradesh. Maha Shivratri falls on the 14th day of the dark half of 'Margasirsa' (February-March). The name means "the night of Shiva". The ceremonies take place chiefly at night. This is a festival observed in honour of Lord Shiva and it is believed that on this day Lord Shiva was married to Parvati.
On this festival people worship 'Shiva - the Destroyer'. This night marks the night when Lord Shiva danced the 'Tandav'. In Andhra Pradesh, pilgrims throng the Sri Kalahasteshwara Temple at Kalahasti and the Bharamarambha Malikarjunaswamy Temple at Srisailam.

On Shivaratri .People observe a strict fast on this day. Some devotees do not even take a drop of water and they keep vigil all night. The Shiva Lingam is worshipped throughout the night by washing it every three hours with milk, curd, honey, rose water, etc., whilst the chanting of the Mantra "Om Namah Shivaya" continues. Offerings of Bael leaves are made to the Lingam as Bael leaves are considered very sacred and it is said that Goddess Lakshmi resides in them.
Hymns in praise of Lord Shiva, such as the "Shiva Mahimna Stotra" of Pushpadanta or Ravana's "Shiva Tandava Stotra" are sung with great fervour and devotion. People repeat the 'Panchakshara' Mantra, "Om Namah Shivaya". He, who utters the names of Shiva during Shivratri, with perfect devotion and concentration, is freed from all sins. He reaches the abode of Shiva and lives there happily. He is liberated from the wheel of births and deaths. Many pilgrims dock to the places where there are Shiva temples.

Every month in Krishna paksha chathurdhasi (fourteenth moonday) is called masa Shiva rathri. The one that comes in the month of "Masi" (mid February to mid March) is called Maha Shiva rathri. This is considered as the most important vrata by the devotees.

This festival is celebrated at night. This festival is also very different from all other Hindu festivals because no special foods are made on this day. People usually eat normal meals during the day, and at sunset, begin a fast along with prayers to Lord Shiva. This ritual ends at sunrise the next day, with a feast to break the fast. Foods in this meal include foods made in the other festivals.

Twelve Jyotirlingas

The Shiva Linga is the most common object of worship all over India. But twelve such stones are considered more important and are known as Jyotirlinga. They are situated in the following places:
1-Omkareshwar in Madhya Pradesh
2-Rameshwar in Tamil Nadu
3-Bhimashankar in Daminyal near Pune in Maharashtra
4 -Mahakaleshwar in Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh
5-Somanath in Saurashtra
6-Nageshwar in Dwarka
7-Mallika1 in Uttar Pradesh,
8-Kedarnath in the Himalayas,
9-Dhushmeshwar in Ellora near Aurangabad
10-Trimbakeshwar near Nashik
11-Vishvanath in Benares and
12-Vaidyanath in Parli in Marathvada.


Mahashivaratri 2008

Mahashivaratri will fall on 6th March on Thursdsay in 2008

Mahashivaratri that day very important every hindus first worships thear family god kuladeivam ,



108 Names of Lord Siva

Name Meaning
1-Aashutosh ---- One Who Fulfills Wishes Instantly
2-Aja - Unborn
3-Akshayaguna - God With Limitless Attributes
4=Anagha = Without Any Fault
5-Anantadrishti- - Of Infinite Vision
6-Augadh - One Who Revels All The Time
7-Avyayaprabhu - Imperishable Lord
8=Bhairav - -Lord Of Terror
9-Bhalanetra - One Who Has An Eye In The Forehead
10-Bholenath -Kind Hearted Lord
11-Bhooteshwara - Lord Of Ghosts And Evil Beings
12-Bhudeva - Lord Of The Earth
13-Bhutapala - Protector Of The Ghosts
14-Chandrapal - Master Of The Moon
15-Chandraprakash -One Who Has Moon As A Crest
16-Dayalu -Compassionate
17-Devadeva -Lord Of The Lords
18-Dhanadeepa -Lord Of Wealth
19-Dhyana -deepIcon Of Meditation And Concentration
20-Dhyutidhara - Lord Of Brilliance
21-Digambara -Ascetic Without Any Clothes
22-Durjaneeya -Difficult To Be Known
23-Durjaya -Unvanquished
24-Gangadhara - Lord Of River Ganga
25-Girijapati -Consort Of Girija
26-Gunagrahin -Acceptor Of Gunas
27-Gurudeva -Master Of All
28-Hara -Remover Of Sins
29-Jagadisha -Master Of The Universe
30-Jaradhishamana - Redeemer From Afflictions
31-Jatin - One Who Has Matted Hair
32-Kailas - One Who Bestows Peace
33-Kailashadhipati -Lord Of Mount Kailash
34-Kailashnath - Master Of Mount Kailash
35-Kamalakshana - Lotus-Eyed Lord
36-Kantha - Ever-Radiant
37-Kapalin One Wears A Necklace Of Skulls
38-Khatvangin One Who Has The Missile Khatvangin In His Hand
39-Kundalin One Who Wears Earrings
40-Lalataksha One Who Has An Eye In The Forehead
41-Lingadhyaksha Lord Of The Lingas
42-Lingaraja Lord Of The Lingas
43-Lokankara Creator Of The Three Worlds
44-Lokapal One Who Takes Care Of The World
45-Mahabuddhi Extremely Intelligent
46-Mahadeva Greatest God
47-Mahakala Lord Of All Times
48-Mahamaya -Of Great Illusions
49-Mahamrityunjaya -Great Victor Of Death
50-Mahanidhi -Great Storehouse
51-Mahashaktimaya - One Who Has Boundless Energies
52-Mahayogi -Greatest Of All Gods
53-Mahesha -Supreme Lord
54-Mahesawara -Lord Of Gods
55-Nagabhushana - One Who Has Serpents As Ornaments
56-Nataraja - King Of The Art Of Dancing
57-Nilakantha - Blue Necked Lord
58-Nityasundara -Ever Beautiful
59-Nrityapriya -Lover Of Dance
60-Omkara -Creator Of OM
61-Palanha - One Who Protects Everyone
62-Parameshwara -First Among All Gods
63-Paramjyoti -Greatest Splendour
64-Pashupati -Lord Of All Living Beings
65-Pinakin -One Who Has A Bow In His Hand
66-Pranava -Originator Of The Syllable Of OM
67-Priyabhakta -Favourite Of The Devotees
68-Priyadarshana - Of Loving Vision
69-Pushkara -One Who Gives Nourishment
70-Pushpalochana - One Who Has Eyes Like Flowers
71-Ravilochana - Having Sun As The Eye
72-Rudra -The Terrible
73-Rudraksha - One Who Has Eyes Like Rudra
74-Sadashiva - Eternal God
75-Sanatana -Eternal Lord
76-Sarvacharya -Preceptor Of All
77-Sarvashiva -Always Pure
78-Sarvatapana - Scorcher Of All
79-Sarvayoni - Source Of Everything
80-Sarveshara - Lord Of All Gods
81-Shambhu - One Who Bestows Prosperity
82-Shankara -One Who Gives Happiness
83-Shiva - Always Pure
84-Shoolin - One Who Has A Trident
85-Shrikantha - Of Glorious Neck
86-Shrutiprakasha - Illuminator Of The Vedas
87-Shuddhavigraha -One Who Has A Pure Body
88-Skandaguru -Preceptor Of Skanda
89-Someshwara -Lord Of All Gods
90-Sukhada -Bestower Of Happiness
91-Suprita -Well Pleased
92-Suragana -Having Gods As Attendants
93-Sureshwara -Lord Of All Gods
94-Swayambhu - Self-Manifested
95-Tejaswani -One Who Spreads Illumination
96-Trilochana - Three-Eyed Lord
97-Trilokpati - Master Of All The Three Worlds
98-Tripurara - Enemy Of Tripura
99-Trishoolin -One Who Has A Trident In His Hands
100-Umapati -Consort Of Uma
101-Vachaspati -Lord Of Speech
102-Vajrahasta -One Who Has A Thunderbolt In His Hands
103-Varada - Granter Of Boons
104-Vedakrada - Originator Of The Vedas
105-Veerabhadra -Supreme Lord Of The Nether World
106-Vishalaksha -Wide-Eyed Lord
107-Vishveshwar - Lord Of The Universe
108-Vrishavahana -One Who Has Bull As His Vehicle


Lord siva Slokas and Mantras
1-Shiva Panchakshara stotram
2-Shiva Thandava Stotram
3-Maha Mrutyunjaya Stotram
4-Bilwashtakam
5-Lingashtakam
6-Shree Shiva Ashtothram
7-Daridrya dukha dahana shivastotram
Shiva Gayatri
( Om Pancahvaktraye Vidmahe Mahadevaye
Dhi-Mahi
Tan No Rudra Prachodayat )
8-Shiva Manasa Pooja
9-Shivananda Lahari



Sri Lingashtakam
Brahma Muraari Suraarchita Lingam
Nirmala Bhashita Shobhita Lingam
Janmaja Dukha Vinaashaka Lingam
Tat Pranamaami Sadaa Shiva Lingam

Meaning: I bow before that Sada Shiva Linga, which is adored by Brahma, Vishnu and other Gods, which is praised by pure and holy speeches and which destroys the cycle of births and deaths.

Devamuni Pravaraarchita Lingam
Kaamadaham Karunaakara Lingam
Raavana Darpa Vinaashaka LingamTat
Pranamaami Sada Shiva Lingam

Meaning: I bow before that Sada Shiva Linga, which is the destroyer of desires, which the Devas and the sages worship, which is infinitely compassionate and which subdued the pride of Raavana.

Sarva Sugandha Sulepitha Lingam
Buddhi Vivardhana Kaarana Lingam
Siddha Suraasura Vanditha Lingam
Tat Pranamaami Sadaa Shiva Lingam

Meaning: I bow before that Sada Shiva Linga, which is lavishly smeared with variegated perfumes and scents, which elevates the power of thought and enkindles the light of discrimination, and before which the Siddhas and Suras and Asuras prostrate.

Kanaka Mahaamani Bhushitha Lingam
Phanipathi Veshtitha Shobhitha Lingam
Daksha Suyajna Vinaashaka Lingam
Tat Pranamaami Sadaa Shiva Lingam

Meaning: I bow before that Sada Shiva Linga, the destroyer of Dakshas sacrifice, which is decorated with various ornaments, studded with different gems and rubies and which glows with the garland of the serpent Lord coiled around it.

Kumkuma Chandana Lepitha Lingam
Pankaja Haara Sushobhitha Lingam
Sanchitha Paapa Vinaashaka Lingam
Tat Pranamaami Sadaa Shiva Lingam

Meaning: I bow before that Sada Shiva Linga, which is smeared with saffron and sandal paste, which is decorated with lotus garlands and which wipes out all accumulated sins.
Devaganaarchitha Sevitha LingamBhaavair Bhakti Bhirevacha LingamDinakara Koti Prabhakara Lingam Tat Pranamaami Sadaa Shiva Lingam

Meaning: I bow before that Sada Shiva Linga which is worshipped by the multitude of Gods with genuine thoughts full of faith and devotion and whose splendor is like that of a million suns.

Ashta Dalopari Veshtitha Lingam
Sarva Samudbhava Kaarana Lingam
Ashta Daridra Vinaashaka Lingam
Tat Pranamaami Sadaa Shiva Lingam

Meaning: I bow before that Sada Shiva Linga, destroyer of all poverty and misery in its eight aspects, which is the cause of all creation and which stands on the eight petalled Lotus.

Suraguru Suravara Pujitha Lingam
Suravana Pushpa Sadaarchitha Lingam
Paraatparam Paramatmaka Lingam
Tat Pranamaami Sadaa Shiva Lingam

Meaning: I bow before that Sada Shiva Linga which is the Transcendent Being and the Supreme Self, worshipped by all Suras and their preceptor (Brhaspathi), with innumerable flowers from the celestial garden

Significance of Mrityunjaya Mantra
This Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra is a life giving mantra. In these days, when life is very complex, accidents are an everyday affair. This mantra wards off death by accidents. Besides it has a great curative effect. Again, diseases pronounced incurable by doctors are cured by this mantra, when chanted with sincerity, faith and devotion. It is a weapon against all diseases. It is a mantra to conquer death. It is also a moksha mantra being Lord Shiva's mantra. It bestows health, long life (deergha ayush), peace (shanti), wealth (aishvaryam), prosperity (pushti), satisfaction (tusthti) and immortality (moksha).

Om Trayambakam YajamaheSugandham Pushtivardhanam
Urvaruka miva Bandhanam
Mrityomukshyeeya Maamritaat

"We worship the three-eyed one (Lord Siva) who is fragrant and nourishes all beings; may He liberate me from death for the sake of immortality

Daridrya dukha dahana shivastotram
Whoever repeats this prayer on Lord Shiva composed by Rishi Vashishta attains that supreme abode of His and enjoys the eternal bliss. Whoever recites the nine stanzas of this powerful prayer will be relieved of all his sins, poverty and malady. Whoever recites this prayer will be bestowed with prosperity and happiness. dharithriya = poverty (or) misfortune; thahana = burn to ashes. The misfortunes of the devotee who repeats the prayer, will be burnt to ashes.
Vishveshvaraya narakarnavataranaya karnamrutaya shashishekharadharanayaKarpura kantidhavalaya jatadharaya daridryaduhkha dahanaya namah shivaya 1

Gauripriyaya rajanishakaladharaya kalantakaya bhujagadhipa kankanayaGangadharaya gajarajavimardanaya daridryaduhkha dahanaya namah shivaya 2

Bhaktipriyaya bhavarogabhayapahaya ugraya durga bhavasagarataranayaJyotirmayaya gunanamasunrityakaya daridryaduhkha dahanaya namah shivaya 3

Charmambaraya shavabhasmavilepanaya bhalekshanaya manikundalamanditayaManjirapadayugalaya jatadharaya daridryaduhkha dahanaya namah shivaya 4

Panchananaya phanirajavibhushanaya hemamshukaya bhuvanatrayamanditaya Anandabhumivaradaya tamomayaya daridryaduhkha dahanaya namah shivaya 5

Bhanupriyaya bhavasagarataranaya kalantakaya kamalasanapujitayaNetratrayaya shubhalaxanalakshitaya daridryaduhkha dahanaya namah shivaya 6

Ramapriyaya raghunatha varapradaya nagapriyaya narakarnavataranayaPunyeshu punyabharitaya surarchitaya daridryaduhkha dahanaya namah shivaya 7

Mukteshvaraya phaladaya ganeshvaraya gitapriyaya vrushabheshvaravahanayaMatangacharmavasanaya maheshvaraya daridryaduhkha dahanaya namah shivaya 8

Vasishtena kritam stotram
sarvaroganivaranam.
h Sarvasampatkaram shighram
putra pautrabhivardhanam.h
Trisandhyam yah patennityam
sa hi svargamavapnuyat.
h iti vasishtavirachitam
daridryadahanashivastotram sampurnam.

slokas and sthothras on Lord Shiva will gives happiness and prosperity.
Shiva Dyanam
Vandhe Sambumumapathimh suragurum
Vandhe Jagathkaaranam
Vandhe PanaBhooshanam mruhadharam
Vandhe Pasoonaam pathim
Vandhe Soorya Shasaankavahninayanam
Vandhe Mukundhapriyam
Vandhe Baktha Janasrayamsvratham
Vandhe Shivam Sankaram

Shree Shiva Ashtothram

Om Sivaya namah
Om Mahe-shwaraya namah
Om Shambhave namah
Om Pinaakine namah
Om Sasi-shekha-raya namah
Om Vama-devaya namah
Om Virupakshaya namah
Om Kapardhine namah
Om Nila-lohitaya namah
Om Shankaraya namah
Om Shula-panine namah
Om Khatvamgene namah
Om Vishnu-vallabhaya namah
Om Sipi-vistaya namah
Om Ambika nadhaya namah
Om Srikantaya namah
Om Bhakta-vastalaya namah
Om Bhavaya namah
Om Sharwaya namah
Om Trilo-keshaya namah
Om Siti-kantaya namah
Om Siva-priyaya namah
Om Ugraya namah
Om Kapaline namah
Om Kaomarine namah
Om Andhaka-sura-sudanaya namah
Om Ganga-dharaya namah
Om Lalaa-takshaya namah
Om Kaala-kalaya namah Om Kripa-nidhaye namah
Om Bheemaya namah
Om Parashu-hastaya namah
Om Mruga-panine namah
Om Jata-dharaaya namah
Om Kailasa-vasine namah
Om Kavachine namah
Om Katoraya namah
Om Tripuran-takaya namah
Om Vrushankaya namah
Om Vrusha-bharudaya namah
Om Bhasmo-dhulitha vigrahaya namah
Om Sama-priyaaya namah
Om Sarwamayaaya namah
Om Traemurthaye namah
Om Anishwaraya namah
Om Sarwagnyaya namah
Om Paramatmane namah
Om Soma-suryagni-lochanaya namah
Om Havishe namah
Om Yagnya-mayaaya namah
Om Somaya namah
Om Pancha-vaktraya namah
Om Sada-shivaya namah
Om Vishveshwa-raya namah
Om Virabhadraya namah
Om Gana-nadhaya namah
Om Praja-pataye namah
Om Hiranya-retaya namah
Om Durdharshaya namah
Om Girishaya namah
Om Giree-shaya namah
Om Anaghaya namah
Om Bhujanga-bhusha-naya namah
Om Bhargaya namah
Om Giri-dhanvine namah
Om Giri-priyaaya namah
Om Krutti-vasaya namah
Om Pura-rataye namah
Om Bhagavaye namah
Om Pramadha-dipaya namah
Om Mrutyumjayaya namah
Om Shukshma-tanave namah
Om Jagadvayapine namah
Om Jagad-gurave namah
Om Vyoma-keshaya namah
Om Mahasena-janakaya namah
Om Charu-vikramaya namah
Om Rudraya namah
Om Bhuta-pataye namah Om Sthanane namah
Om Ahirbhudnyaya namah
Om Digamba-raya namah
Om Ashta-murthaye namah
Om Anekat-maya namah
Om Satvikaya namah
Om Shudha-vigrahaya namah
Om Shashwataya namah
Om Khanda-parashave namah
Om Ajaaya namah
Om Pashavimo-chakaya namah
Om Mrudaya namah
Om Pashu-pataye namah
Om Devaya namah
Om Maha-devaya namah
Om Avya-yaya namah
Om Haraye namah
Om Pusha-damta-bhethre namah
Om Avya-graya namah Om Dakshadwara-haraaya namah
Om Haraya namah
Om Bhaganetrabhitre namah
Om Avya-ktaya namah
Om Saha-srakshaya namah
Om Saha-srapadave namah
Om Apavarga-pradaya namah
Om Anantaya namah
Om Tarakaya namah Om Para-meshwaraya namah
Om naanavidha parimala pathra pushpaanni samarpyami



http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maha_Shivaratri


http://members.rediff.com/saivani/Mahasivarathri.htm
http://sound-hindu-god-photo.blogspot.com/search/label/SIVA