Newsletter Archive

The many legends of Mariamman still reside in her rituals and temples and come alive during her festivals, when the goddess meets her devotees who visit her from all over the world. For the devotees, the question of whether Mariamman is Parvati, Durga, or Kali is not as relevant as the fact that she is their Amman, mother, who will always answer their call. The worship of goddess Mariamman is characterized by local rituals- some that require immense dedication such as fire walking while others simple, more personal like offering her homemade food and praying to her daily for blessings or special boons. According to some beliefs, Mariamman is an aspect of the goddess Parvati. The connection between Mariamman and Parvati is most strongly seen in the Patala Ponni Amman Temple at Chennai, where the goddess Ponni is worshipped as an aspect of Parvati, and also as a grama devata, with Shiva as her consort.

Published in Mar 2025

Indian Wood Carving : A Journey Through History, Heritage, and Artistry

Wooden craftsmanship may not live for centuries like metal, but it carries a subtle charm that easily blends into both traditional and contemporary spaces. Every artistic piece of wooden craft discussed here is a result of skills and labor, with artisans dedicating months and sometimes years, learning from their masters how to perfect intricate carvings, ensuring that every work of Indian woodcraft tells its own unique story. The warmth and elegance of wooden decor bring a sense of refinement to any home, adding character without overwhelming the space. If you have heirloom furniture pieces, hold on to them and put them to good use. Wood carving is a common but an elegant art in all parts of India. Each region in India has its own style of structures and carving styles.

Published in Mar 2025

Andhakasuravadha: The iconography and Legends Behind the lesser-known fierce form of Shiva

Andhakasura was born from the union of Parvati’s sweat and Shiva’s potent heat, in a moment when the great goddesses covered his eyes with her hands playfully, emerging out of the darkness that spread when Shiva’s eyes were closed. Andhaka, due to his blindness and dark colored form, was given to the demon Hiranyaksha, the brother of Hiranyakashyapu, as his son. Andhaka, despite his immense power and boons, born from the divine Shiva and Parvati, was blinded by his ego and lust, leading him to challenge the very forces that created him. However, Shiva’s divine justice not only punished him but also gave him a chance for spiritual transformation, showing that even the gravest sinners can attain grace through sincere penance and devotion.

Published in Mar 2025

Whispers of the Dakini: From Odisha to Tibet, the Rise of Buddhist Tantra

Ratnagiri established itself as a place of the union of philosophy and power since the time of the Guptas, especially under Narasinghagupta Baladitya. He was followed by the Bhaumakaras from the 7th to 10th century CE, who patronized Ratnagiri which simultaneously developed as a key point in Southeast Asian trade as well as a place of intriguing local and trans-regional cultural exchanges.

Published in Feb 2025

Ratnagiri’s Secrets Unearthed: A New Chapter in India’s Buddhist Heritage

Recently, interest in Odisha’s Buddhist heritage has been fueled by some intriguing discoveries, reaffirming the region’s historical significance as a major center of Buddhist learning and art. The newest excavations at Ratnagiri have revealed a 1.4-meter Buddha head, a monolithic elephant whose naturalism reminds one of the Dhauli rock-cut elephant, intricately carved votive stupas, inscribed stone tablets, and other priceless relics, shedding new light on the grandeur of this ancient Mahavihara complex. These findings, dating back to the 5th–13th centuries CE, provide fresh insights into the evolution of Buddhist thought, artistic expression, and the dynamic spiritual exchanges whose impact goes beyond the borders of modern-day India.

Published in Feb 2025

Shiva Ratri Vrata Mahatmya: Fasting and the Method of Shivaratri Puja as Told by Lord Shiva

After sunrise, the devotee should perform worship of Shiva with various articles and rituals as mentioned in the Shastras. They should get their Abhisheka (consecration) done by Brahmanas and offer them food and Dakshina as vowed during the Puja. Then, with flowers in hands, one should bow in front of Shiva and say- “O benevolent one, I am yours, my Praana (life) and Chitta (consciousness) are yours, do with me as you please”. “O Bhutanatha, I performed your worship according to my knowledge (or lack thereof), so with your kindness, accept it and be pleased with me”. “Be pleased with the fruit of this Upavasa. Bless my kin so that they eternally worship you and do not let me take birth in a kin where you are not worshipped.”

Published in Feb 2025

Goddess Padmavati: The Consort of Lord Venkateswara and the Goddess of Prosperity

Goddess Padmavati, also known as Alamelu Mangai, is an incarnation of Lakshmi and the consort of Lord Venkateswara (Tirupati Balaji). She represents wealth, prosperity, and devotion. This blog explores her legends, marriage, temples, iconography, and significance in Vaishnavism, particularly in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, along with some lesser-known legends of Maa Padmavati.

Published in Feb 2025

Rama Raksha Stotram: Sri Rama’s Eternal Sheild for the Devotee

In Hindu tradition, Stotram or stotra is a stuti or prayer or a poetic verse about the powers and benevolence of a deity. Stotram is recited by the devotee regularly or on special occasions to gain blessings and pay respect to the god or goddess who is addressed in the Stotra. Among the many powerful Stotram that are a part of traditional Hindu rituals, is the Rama Raksha Stotram- the verses that symbolize the shield offered by Sri Rama against all negative and evil forces, to whoever sings this emotive hymn of Rama.

Published in Feb 2025

Are Goddess Durga and Parvati the Same?

Durga and Parvati two faces of the same divine energy. Discover how these goddesses represent the perfect balance of strength and compassion, fierce protection and gentle nurture, teaching us the true essence of Shakti. The divine feminine is a powerful force of nature, manifesting as both gentle nurture and fierce protection. In Hinduism, Goddess Durga and Goddess Parvati beautifully embody these dual aspects of Shakti. Through their stories and symbolism, we learn valuable lessons about balance, inner strength, and compassionate living. Explore our in-depth guide to understand how Durga and Parvati inspire spiritual seekers to embrace all facets of the feminine divine.

Published in Feb 2025

Who is Meldi Maa? Gujarat's Powerful Folk Goddess of Protection & Fertility

Meldi Maa is a folk goddess of Gujarat, especially worshipped in Saurashtra as the protector of people, farms, and travelers. According to legend, she was created from the divine energy of Goddess Uma to defeat evil forces. Meldi Maa is shown riding a goat with eight arms holding sacred weapons. Her temples are found across Gujarat and Maharashtra, and she is also closely associated with Mata ni Pachedi art and local traditions, including prayers for overseas travel and U.S. visas. Discover who Meldi Maa is, her legend, temples, symbolism, worship, and Gujarat folk traditions linked to this powerful protector goddess.

Published in Jan 2025

Kurma (Turtle) Avatar: Vishnu’s Second Incarnation that Balanced Creation

When the gods and demons began Samdura-Manthan, they needed someone to carry the weight of the mighty Mount Mandara. Someone who was stable but not feeble, someone who could be trusted with carrying the weight of universal balance. All eyes were on Vishnu, the Paalankarta (preserver), who transformed himself into a gigantic turtle and thus began the churning of the cosmic ocean.

Published in Jan 2025

Matsya Avatar: Vishnu’s First Incarnation in Dashavatara

Matsya avatar, the first incarnation among the Dashavatara (10 forms) of Vishnu, is a rarely depicted aspect of the Hindu preserver god. Revered in the Vedas, Upanishads, Puranas, and epics, the legend of Matsya avatar is the story of Vishnu coming to the aid of the residents of earth, for the first time. Associated with the cosmic narrative of Pralaya or deluge, the Matsya avatar is a lesser-known form of Vishnu, rooted in the ancient traditions of India. Let us learn about the history, iconography, stories, and temples of Matsyavataram, and understand why Vishnu took the form of a fish.

Published in Jan 2025

Maha Kumbha 2025: All About Kumbha Mela, History, Significance and Traditions

The story begins in the time of the gods when the Samudra-Manthan was taking place. The “Amrita Kumbha” or pot of nectar that emerged from the churning of the ocean, is said to be in the hands of Indra, Vishnu as Mohini, or Garuda (as per different sources) when a few drops trickled on the earth, marking the 4 spots where Kumbha Mela takes place. According to some traditions, Indra’s son Jayant is believed to have transported Amrita to heaven, a journey that took him 12 days, which in human time is equal to 12 years, establishing the tradition of Kumbha Mela.

Published in Dec 2024

What is Mixed Media Art?

Mixed Media Art is a contemporary art form that uses more than two types of artwork or techniques. Many elements come together to create a unique piece of art. It all flows in the artist's mind and this is why this art is known to be freestyle. This is the beauty of Mixed Media Art. Although this art culture was introduced by revered artists, it continues to evolve and progress and its varied nature is yet to be fully discovered. In the field of art, it stands out as a testament to creativity and the artistic realm. It sets free the boundaries of techniques and processes and innovates a new design that harmonizes into a single framework. Whether you are just a curious seeker or starting to fit into the foundation of artistic hands, this article will help you unveil the mystery of Mixed Media Art. Let’s get into the details.

Published in Dec 2024

The 10 Worlds According to Buddhism

The “Ten Worlds” Jikkai in Buddhism is a concept from the Lotus Sutra and later Buddhist teachings, which are particularly emphasized in Nichiren Buddhism. It describes ten states or realms of existence that encompass life. These are not physical realms but conditions of being that we move through, sometimes even within a single moment. The Ten Worlds are central to Buddhist philosophy, offering a profound understanding of the mind and how it shapes our reality. These realms are interconnected and can manifest in any moment based on one’s thoughts, actions, and surroundings. Let’s explore each world, beginning from the lowest states of suffering to the highest state of enlightenment.

Published in Dec 2024

Lotus Sutra : The King of Sutras

"The Lotus Sutra is the king of sutras, true and correct in both word and principle. Its words are the ultimate reality, and this reality is the Mystic Law (myoho). It is called the Mystic Law because it reveals the principle of the mutually inclusive relationship between a single moment of life and all phenomena. That is why this sutra is the wisdom of all Buddhas." On Attaining Buddhahood in This Lifetime (WND 1, p3) - Nichiren Daishonin The Lotus Sutra (Saddharma Pundarika Sutra) is one of the most celebrated and influential texts in Mahayana Buddhism worldwide. Also widely known as the “King of Sutras,” it is considered a definitive guide to understanding enlightenment. With its rich metaphors, universal messages, and profound teachings, the Lotus Sutra has inspired countless practitioners and scholars across centuries.

Published in Nov 2024

The History of Indian Stone Sculpture: Origins, Styles & Cultural Legacy

Indian stone sculptures are protected under national heritage and archaeological conservation laws. Preservation efforts led by the Archaeological Survey of India and UNESCO focus on controlling pollution damage, structural erosion, and climate impact to safeguard these monuments for future generations. Uncover the history of Indian stone sculpture, from ancient temples to modern art. Explore origins, styles, symbolism, and heritage significance.

Published in Nov 2024

Culture Comes Home : 1440 Artifacts Returned to India by US (United State)

Attack on sites of religious and political importance and looting of sculptures and artifacts as an expression of victory and a way of adding insult to injury has been a war tactic since pre-modern times. The infamous plundering of Somnath Temple, during which many of its treasures and artifacts were stolen by Mahmud Ghazni, is one of the many events in history where the act of taking away art was a way of marking one’s victory and shaming the defeated dynasties. The site of Somnath has finally regained its glory, with kings in the medieval period and prominent devotees, temple trust, and ASI devoting resources to its preservation.

Published in Nov 2024

The Five Tathagatas: Understanding the Wisdom Buddhas

The term “Tathagata” is a title often used to refer to a Buddha, particularly Shakyamuni Buddha, in Buddhist texts. It’s a profound word meaning “one who has thus come” or “one who has thus gone,” emphasizing someone who has attained enlightenment and transcended the cycle of birth and death. In Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhist teachings, there are multiple Buddhas or Tathagatas, often symbolizing various aspects of enlightened wisdom and compassion. Here’s an exploration of the “Five Tathagatas,” also known as the “Five Wisdom Buddhas,” each representing a different facet of enlightenment:

Published in Nov 2024

Shri Dattatreya: Divine Combination of Vishnu & Shiva

Shri Dattatreya, the revered deity of Hinduism is well-defined as an incarnation of the holy Trinity - Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. The name Dattatreya translates to the ‘one given birth by the Gods’ or the ‘Son of Gods’ showcasing his divine relation to the principal deities of the Hindu Pantheon. According to the ancient texts of Puranas, he is described as the son of Saint Atri and Anasuya. Anasuya had immense powers, in older times women attained powers by serving their husbands making Anasuya one of them. The blessing of the trinity shaped Dattatreya’s birth.

Published in Nov 2024

Tri Loka in Hinduism, Jainism & Buddhism - Three Worlds Meaning

Tri Loka, or the “three worlds,” refers to the cosmic realms described in Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism. These traditions divide existence into upper, middle, and lower worlds, where beings experience life based on karma and spiritual progress. Hindu texts describe Svarga, Martya, and Patala Lokas; Jain cosmology speaks of Urdhva, Madhya, and Adho Lokas; Buddhism explains Kama, Rupa, and Arupa Lokas. The concept highlights human destiny and the path toward liberation. What is Tri Loka? Explore the three worlds in Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism, their cosmic structure, and how karma shapes human destiny and liberation.

Published in Nov 2024

Varaha Avatar: Vishnu's Powerful Boar Incarnation to Save the Earth

Discover the legend of Varaha, Vishnu's boar incarnation. Learn about his powerful avatar, his triumph over the demon Hiranyaksha, and his iconography in Indian culture. Varaha, the boar incarnation of Vishnu, is one of the most powerful and symbolic avatars in Hindu mythology. Emerging to rescue Bhudevi from the ocean’s depths, Varaha slayed the demon Hiranyaksha and restored balance to the universe. This article explores Varaha’s Vedic roots, stunning temple art, rare iconography, and spiritual relevance today from his origins in cosmic rescue to his ongoing worship in Indian temples.

Published in Nov 2024

Naraka Chaturthi: Untold Story of Krishna’s Victory over Demon Narakasura

The Puranas narrate the story of Narakasura, beginning with the abduction of the Earth goddess, Bhudevi by the demon Hiranyaksha. To protect Bhudevi, Sri Vishnu takes the incarnation of Varaha, one of the Dashavatars, and plunges into the depths of the great ocean. The boar-faced god brings Bhudevi to the surface, raising her on his tusks, a divine vision for the gods and humans who rejoice. During this rescue, a few drops of Varaha’s sweat fall on Earth (some sources tell that it was the piercing of Varaha’s tusk into the earth), as a result of which, Bhudevi bore Varaha’s son, named Bhaumasura (Bhauma- belonging to Bumi, a title of Mangala Graha, who is also the son of the earth goddess).

Published in Oct 2024

Saptarishi: The Seven Sages of Hinduism and their Celestial Legacy

A cluster of seven stars forming a part of the glowing Ursa Major constellation in the sky, are given the revered status of “Saptarishi” (sapta-seven, rishi-sages), in Hindu culture, astronomy, and literature. Described in ancient Hindu books as divine beings who possessed the wisdom of the Universe, Saptarishis are believed to have understood the Param Brahman (supreme reality). Forming the Saptarishi Mandala or collection of seven sages in the night sky, Saptarishis have been mentioned in the Vedic sources, from where they went on to become the eternal residents of the horizon.

Published in Oct 2024