ISKCON TEMPLE, DELHI

The International Society for Krishna Conciousness (ISKCON), also known as the Hare Krishna movement, is a Hindu Gaudiya Vaishnava religious Organization. It was found in 1966 in New York City by AC Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada. Its core beliefs are based on traditional Hindu scriptures such as the “Srimad Bhagavatam and the Bhagavad-Gita” both of which, accourding to the Traditional Hindu view, date back more than 5,000yrs.The distinctive appearance of the movement and its culture comes from the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition, which has had adherents in India since the late 15^th century and western converts since the early 1930s.

ISKCON Temple is located at Hari Krishna Hill, in the East of Kailash area of NewDelhi.It was built as recently as 1998 and is one of the most Lavish and Grand Temples of the city. A fine Temple of architecture, it sports “Shikharas”, rising to a height of 90ft above the ground level. The Temple has air-conditioned hall that can hold as many as 1,500 people at once.

The construction of the Temple follows in three dimensional forms exactly the pattern laidout by the Mandala.The relationship between the underlying symbolic order and the actual physical appearance of the Temple can best be understood by seeing it from above which was of course, impossible for humans until quite recently.

The huge Temple looks majestic with its outer appearance, while it appears celestial from inside. The colossal Temple complex spreads in a vast area. The three tall spires (Shikhars) look awesome when they are brightly lit in the night. In order to reach the main shrine, one has to take a flight of steps. This flight of steps has various halts that had to other destinations of the Temple complex. On the way there are shops on one side and on the other side, fountains add to the mysticism of this shrine.

The main shrine is a huge hall where three shrines are located under the three spires. These three shrines are dedicated to Radha-Krishna, Ram-Sita and Guara-Nitai respectively. At once, the glimpse of these idols makes one to ponder over the celestial world. The idols are worth seeing and admiring their sculpted beauty. Festooned with rich clothes and jewelary, the idols are adorned with great delicacy and care. In this hall, one can always hear the divine tune i.e. Hare Rama Hare Krishna. Many lectures, kirtans and discourses are arranged for the benefit and spiritual upliftment of devotees.

Another important aspect of the design of the ground plan is that it is intended to lead from temporal world to the eternal. The principle shrine should face the rising Sun and so should have its entrance to the East. Movement towards the sanctuary, along the east-west. A typical Hindu Temple consists of the following major elements-an entrance, often with a porch, one or more attached or detached mandapas or halls; the inner sanctum called the “Garbagriha”, literally “Womb Chamber”, and the tower building above the garbagriha.The fine art paintings by Russian artists here  depict lives and events related to Hindu mythological characters, like-Radha-Krishna, Ram-Sita, Laxman, Hanuman and Chaitanya Mahaprabhu.

ISKCON and Hinduism both trace their beginnings to the Vadas and to the “Bhagavad-Gita” text.Whereas, mainstream Hinduism regards Krishna to be the 8^th incarnation of Vishnu (the preserver and one of the Hindu trinity of deities), ISKCON regards Krishna to be Supreme Lord over all deities, including Vishnu. They are therefore a mono theistic faith group, one that stresses bhakti, the way of devotion.

The Temple is the focus for all aspects of everyday life in the Hindu community- religious, cultural, educational and social. The Temple is also the place where, one can transcend the world of man.ISKCON Temple has one of the largest Temple complexes in India. It comprises numerous rooms for the priest and service renders of this Temple. It has many halls that are used for its administration purpose. Inside the complex, there is a beautiful museum that attracts the people towards its remarkable paintings and outstanding objects. The museum presents the Indian history in easy and interactive manner.  
The main attractions of the Temple are the “Robort”, who enact and preach the Gita, and also the Janmashtami, being the birthday of Lord Krishna, is the major festival observed by the Temple. At this time, the Temple witnesses huge celebration involving many religious activities. The Temple decorated from top to bottom with lights and flowers. Adequate arrangements are made to hold thousands of devotees, who come to visit the holy shrine. People standing in long queues, to have a glimpse of the Lord, add a holy tint to the exhilarating atmosphere of the Temple. http://dharm.in/

 The Temple remains opened every day from 4:30am to 12:00pm and from 4:00pm to 9:00pm, Aartis, Bhajans and Sermons are a regular feature of the Temple, which provides -Peace to body, mind and soul. Just before you depart do not overlook to take the Prasad, which is really a Dona of some very nutritious “Kichidi”.The Temple is among the most gorgeous and well- maintained ones in Delhi.  

The ISKCON Temple is designed to dissolve the boundaries between the Man and the Divine. Not merely his adobe, the Temple is “God” and therefore, by implication the whole universe is identified with the Temple’s design and actual fabric.

For many this is just a Temple for finding Peace, Solace and Quite, sitting amongst Lord Krishna and his devotees with Hare Krishna chants going around is indeed an experience. But for those who are seeking more, there is so much to learn and see, than what meets the eye.

JHANDEWALAN TEMPLE

To have the divine experience of Shri AadiShakti, devotees can plan visit to her famous temple located in Delhi i.e.Jhandewalan Temple. 

The name Jhandewalan was given during Shah Jahan’s reign, due to the prayers, flags or “jhandas” being offered. This is an ancient temple having one of its own history. It is said that Jhandewalan was once located in a mountain region, surrounded by fruits, flowers and trees. Accourding to the belief, it is said that this temple’s existence is many years old. It says that Jhandewalan Temple was built on a Sanctorum. When this place was excavated than sanctorum of the Goddess was descended, and on this place, then the temple was established. 

There is a history attached to this idol. There was one merchant, Badridas who used to be engaged in prayers and meditation. One day he had a thought to construct a temple on this place and excavated the land. Thus, Badridas constructed the temple at the place from where the idol was recovered and established a new idol of Mataji.And today this place is commonly known as, Jhandewalan Temple. The upper level of the temple has divine idol of Maa Jhandewali. There are idols of other gods also at the same level.

 At the ground level, the original idol of Jhandewali Mata is there. The sanctorum where the idol of the Goddess is installed resembles the interior of the VasihnoDevi Shrine. Jhandewalan Temple is one of the religious sites for Hindu’s. Everyone can come and worship irrespective of the cast and status, out of all temples dedicated to Goddess, Jhandewalan is one of the most popular temple as a centre of people’s faith. Many people come here to have a view of Maa’s idol and become eligible for the grace of Mother. The Temple is echoed with day and night chanting of the Goddess Mantras. The devotees are blessed with happiness- Peace, good health and grants all the wishes. 

Many festivals are celebrated in Jhandewalan Temple, on the occasion of Durga Puja and Navratra the view of the Temple is worth the look. During the nine days of Navratra, a special Puja is organized. On this occasion the Temple is decorated with flowers and lights and the Temple is echoed with Maa’s Mantras. The whole environment is filled with pure devotion and devotees can be seen in large numbers from around the world. On this divine place, thousands of devotees converge for Darshan or blessings, including the rich and the famous. Thousands thronged on this temple from early morning to offer prayers and seek the blessings of the Goddess. 

AdiShakti Jhandewali Maa represents the Supreme Being that preserves moral order and righteousness in the creation. She wears Red, holds multiple weapons and rides her Vahana/vehicle – the Tiger; all symbolizing her tremendous and unlimited power which she uses to protect virtue and destroy evil.This is the reason that Maa AdiShakti is worshiped by thousands of her devotees and marked her own significance and importance in Hindu religion.

SHIRDI SAI TEMPLE, Shirdi

India has a history of thousands of years. Flocks of People from different regions of the world came to India and they became one with the Indian culture without losing their own identity because our Vedic seers believed in the philosophy of VASUDHAIV KUTUMBAKAM means the whole world is our family. This way a huge mosaic of culture was created.    Although there are differences in religion, culture, language, art, literature but as Indians, we all are one; it is this diversity which has created a sense of “Unity” among the Indians. And this diversity has enriched our social life as well.

Diversity in terms of religion plays a major role in the Indian way of life. Rituals, workship and other religious activities are very prominent in individual’s daily life; it is also a principal organizer of social life. And one such religious place in India is – “Shirdi”. It is located approximately 296kms from Mumbai, capital of Maharashtra in India.

This place connects with the holy spirits of the people, as it is called the land of “SAI”. Shirdi Sai Baba, who is also known as- “Sai Baba or Sai Ram”, was a great saint of 19^th and early 20^th centuries. Though Sai is a Persian word meaning a - Sufi fakir, Baba and Ram are Hindi words denoting father and Lord respectively. However, both are god’s name and serve as beacon light to show the right path. As the definition of the name goes, the intention of the saint is go towards the Truth.

“Love and devotion” are his two wheels and instruments to teach and infuse spiritualism in the seekers. Lord Krishna has said - “Saints are my living forms”. Hence, Saints are the mirrors of God without any attachment. They have already abandoned to God in consonance with what God wills. They come with a mission and when that is accomplished go nowhere but live in the form of their ideals, teachings, instructions and guide the mankind for the Supreme Being. Sai Baba of Shirdi was such a saint, who had come to this earth in the form of Incarnation to uplift the mankind and when that was completed went on a tour to return later to play and laugh with us.

                                                                                    

Baba’s stayed in Shirdi for more than 60 years. The life of Baba is as wide and deep as the ocean. The belief in simplicity was his greatest virtue. He never called himself God and always uttered “Allah Malik” (God is the Savior).He lived a life of Fakir and mendicancy and called himself to be servant of the God. 

Saibaba of Shirdi was regarded with great reverence by both Hindu and Muslim followers. He lived in a mosque and after his death his body was cremated in a temple. His philosophy ingrained 'Shraddha' meaning - faith and 'Saburi' meaning - compassion. According to him Shraddha and Saburi were the supreme attributes to reach the state of godliness. It is believed that at a tender age of 16 yrs Shri Saibaba arrived at the village of Shirdi in Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra and remained their till his death. After the SaiBaba left the earth for heavenly adobe, his devotees built a temple in Shirdi around, where he used to pray and reside. With the time now it has been converted into a huge temple complex where lakhs of devotees pay visit.

Booty’s stone building came to be known as the Samadhi mandir. ShriSaiBaba was buried here and a beautiful shrine was built over it.

 The Mandir is built with stones and Baba’s Samadhi is built with white marble stones. A railing is built in marble around the Samadhi and is full of ornamental decorations. In front of the Samadhi are two silver pillars full of decorative designs. Just behind the Samadhi is SaiBaba’s marvelous statue made of Italian marble which shows him seated on a throne.

SaiBaba first came to Shirdi in the form of Bal Yogi- a child ascetic. He was first spotted seated under a Neem Tree. This place came to known as “Gurusthan”.The renovation of Gurusthan took place on 30^th Sep, 1941. The present temple was built after this period. There is a small shrine in Gurusthan; on an elevated platform of this shrine a big portrait of Baba is placed. There is a marble statue of Baba besides portrait .The branches of the Neem Tree have came out through the roof of the temple. At a short distance lies Baba’s CHAVADI. Baba used to sleep here every alternate day.

At some distance from Gurusthan there is a “LendiBang”. This Bang was made and watered daily by Baba himself. Baba used to come here every morning and afternoon and take a rest under a Neem Tree.Baba dug a pit , 2 feet deep under the Neem Tree and kept a deep lit in that pit.One octangular Deepgriha called NandaDeep has been built in marble stone in memory of this place. It constantly burns in a glass box. On one side of the Deepgriha is a Peepal Tree and on the other side is a Neem Tree. There are also temples of village deities named Shani, Ganpati and Shankar that are also worth visiting.

Every day thousands of people come to the Sai Darbar, some to test him or some to pay their obeisance but all were welcomed with the universal smile of Baba. Sai respected devotees’ feelings and prayed for their welfare. The warmth’s of His Darshan was such that even agitated and angry mind melted on seeing his form and became one with him. 

The temple premises of ShriSaiBaba are spread in approximately 200sq mtrs.Shirdi being a pilgrimage centre visited by some 20,000 devotees in a day. And during festival seasons, more than 1, 00,000 devotees visit the temple every day. This temple premises is renovated in the year 1998- 1999 and now is equipped with all necessary facilities like – Darshan Lane, Prasada(lunch and dinner), Donation Counters, Prasad counters, Canteen , Railway Reservation Counter, Book Stall etc. The accommodation facilities are also provided by the Sansthan.

The routine of the temple starts at 5 O’clock in the morning with Bhoopali, a morning song and closes at 10 O’clock in night after Shejarati is sung, only on the three occasions the temple is kept open overnight i.e. on Gurupoornima, Dassera and Ramnavami. Every Thursday and on each festival, a Palkhi with Baba’s photo is taken out from the temple.

Aurangabad airport which is 140kms away from Shirdi is the nearest airport. Of recent, train services have also began operation from the different parts of the country for Shirdi, located just about 10kms away from the temple. The newly built railway station of Shirdi now runs many trains from across the country.

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Baba preached at Shirdhi all his life and performed numerous miracles to convince that – “God” exists. He healed people’s diseases provided moral and material comfort to his devotees. Baba helped bring Unity and Harmony between all communities. He said that – “GOD IS ONE”, but called by different names. He said follow your own religion and seek the Truth. His casual talks and behavior created untold happiness on the devotees. Such was the personality of the SaiBaba. Today, in a World where hatred, terror, violence is destroying the very fabric of humanity the life and teachings of SAI BABA is becoming more and more relevant.

BHOJPUR TEMPLE, M.P.

India is known for its diversities, in terms of religions, cultures and traditions. In India people of every faith and religion live together, as it is the birth place of several major world religions.

Religion plays a central and definitive role in the life of the most of Indians. As a result, India has a number of temples, shrines, gurudwaras, mosques and churches. The Famous temples of India are most heavenly abode of different gods and goddesses. These shrines are not only the centres of faith but also remarkable architectural masterpieces and illustrious document of history.

 One such famous Lord Shiva temple of north India is Bhojeshwar temple, it is located in Bhojpur, a small town in Raisen district of Madhya Pradesh. This place is situated at about 28 kms from Bhopal city and is of great historical and religious importance. Bhojpur town is named after the legendary Parmara king RajaBhoj.

Bhojeshwar temple is popular for a huge monolithic Lord Shiva lingam which is considered biggest monolithic lingam in the world.

The lingam in the sanctum rises to an – awe inspiring height of 7.5 feet and having a circumference of 17.8 feet. Set upon a huge platform of 21.5 feet square and constructed by the 3 superimposed limestones                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   blocks.

The architectural harmony of lingam and platform creates a superb synthesis of -"Solidity and Ligthness”.Bhojpur has locked so many things into itself, residing within the lap of a lush green untouched landscape among rocky cliffs and watered by a clear river.

It’s a slow life into paradise, where low boats ferry you down the river to the great dam built centuries ago on the Betwa river. The aroma of the temple is heavy with silence, peace and Tranquility. On the eve of Mahashivaratri, there is a huge crowd of devotees gathered around the temple to worship Lord Shiva. People offer various items to the Lord But; devotees are not allowed to go near Lingam they have to perform the Puja at the platform nearby.

Bhojpur Excursion Tour is an important part of Bhopal sightseeing and tourism. Tourists visit Bhojeshwar temple with having a lot of zeal and emotions in their hearts towards the Lord Shiva. Reaching Bhojpur is not difficult at all, the nearest airport is Bhopal which is 40kms away; it is connected with Mumbai, Indore, Delhi and Gwalior. One can also reach Bhojpur by roadways and railways. Bhopal, on the Delhi-Madras and Delhi-Mumbai mainline is the most convenient railway station. And Bhojpur is also connected by bus with Bhopal.

There is a brooding imminence about this great temple that demands- “Attention and Reverence”. Since the temple is not completed But, still having the ravages of time, it remains one of the best examples of temple architecture of the 11th-13th centuries, and beyond all these things Bhojeshvar temples is one of the most revered shrine of Lord Shiva, where heavenly blessings seems to be pouring every moment.  

BRAAHMI MUHURTHUM

The religious life of many Hindus is focused on devotion to God or several Gods. This devotion usually takes the form of rituals associated with sculptures and images of Gods in home shrines. Hindus mostly perform all auspicious and important rituals during a good muhurtham (a unit of measurement of time). There are good muhurthams and bad muhurthams throughout the day and these also vary according to the day of the week.

There is one muhurtham which is a constant for all the days of the week and any task can be started on any day in that muhurtham. And that is called the “Braahmi Muhurtham.”This is a time that is 90 minutes before sunrise.

Braahmi in Sanskrit means Saraswati, the Goddess of knowledge and intellect. This is thus also a great time for acquiring knowledge and intelligence.

It is during Braahmi that Sun god spreads his rays just as a peacock spreading its feathers. He starts spreading his light and energy throughout the world. The light rays from the galaxies influence the human brain. The nascent sun spreads thousand arms in the form of rays across the sky, which emits light-blue divine rays. These rays bring to life the cells and the brain. Lord Surya or the sun god is also the god of life. If the man can synchronise his senses with these rays during this hour he will be empowered with unchallengeable energy. This observation was endorsed by sages. This is the time when the life under the sun still remains in deep sleep supported by the tranquil and pleasant environment, the sages and munis spread the power of penance, which comes out in the form of high powered electrical and magnetic charge, for the upliftment of the living creatures on the earth. If one keep awake during these hours, it is possible to benefit from this charge.

The logic and reasoning behind the value of this time is that the Sun starts spreading its sunlight and energy during this time. The rays of this light affect the human brain positively. These rays are light-blue. The cells in the brain get activated. The rest of nature is pleasant and peaceful during this time. The mind, as has been proved also by Western science, is a powerful tool to awaken and spread electrical and magnetic charges. These uplift the individual who performs meditation and penance during this time.

Western experts have agreed that the Sun provides important ingredients to earth such as electrical and magnetic charges which charge the earth and its inhabitants with vital energy. It also provides much needed food for plants. And these plants emanate oxygen which is vital for the sustenance of humankind. They have also agreed that rising early causes improved blood circulation. The lungs are pumped with healthy and fresh air (our ancient sages created the Yoga and pranayama thousands of years ago to benefit from this).

There are other advantages of walking up at Braahmi. Throughout the night the wind takes unimaginable amounts of Amrutham (elixir) from the rays of the moon and the stars. This wind provides a healthy cover in the atmosphere at dawn. The air during Braahmi Murutham is called Veeravayu. The Veeravaya helps the body maintains good health, increases the facial glow, inspires the mind and sharpens the intellect. At dawn, it is said; manes in the other world are at peace and gain strength. This strength spreads across the world.

Hence, the process of Braahmi Muhurtham not only stands for its religious values, it also holds the scientific reasons behind it which ultimately benefits us. And also helps us to connect with the God in a healthy and peaceful way.

Chanting Mantras in Hinduism

When we engage in the ritual process we are in essence, connected to “original time”. Rituals awaken that which is eternal within us and show us how our individual lives are part of a much grander design. And one such ritual is- Chanting the Mantras in Hinduism.

The chanting of mantras is an intrinsic aspect of ancient Hinduism. A mantra can be a single sound syllable, a word or a group of words, which, when repeated over, set off vibrations with positive effects on one’s physical and psychological functions. Mantra in Sanskrit combines two syllables, “man” (“mind”) and “tra” (“tool”); essentially, it is an instrument that attunes the mind to the vibrations of the cosmos.

Mantras can be written, chanted or silently repeated – whatever the method chosen, they bring tremendous benefits to the body and mind. It is to be believed that the chanting stimulated the subtle energy centers known as chakras lying along the spine.

Mantric chanting helps induce the “relaxation” response, causing reduction of heart beat, brain waves and respiration. The chanting of specific mantras caused the release of the hormone melatonin and is investigating the importance of this in the healing process.

There is now enough scientific evidence to prove that chanting mantras during meditation does reduce stress levels, even when the individual is unaware of the meaning of the mantra. 

Our learned sages have devised these mantras in their deep meditation. They started reciting these vibrant typical sounds that made the tongue hit the vital points of upper portion of the mouth in certain homogeneous combinations which stimulates brain in such a way as to bring the mind into meditative state or in ecstasy or what is called holy bliss. This repetitive recitation actually changes the chemical balance of the brain allowing a more relaxed peace of mind.

Chanting these mantras attunes one to corresponding vibrations in the cosmos. Importantly, mantras should be chanted with complete faith in order to realize their power in one’s life. Hence we can say that the principal aim of Chanting Mantras is to awaken the hidden divinities that exist in us and, through the assistance of such awakened divinities, to help us reach the Highest and the Supreme. 

Havan

Hinduism- the oldest living religion in the world- strongly believes in eradicating inner as well as outer imperfections by destroying undesirable elements and enriching positive energies in the environment.

To attain the goal of energizing and protecting the inner self and environment, Hinduism has given a significant place to Havan, which is said to be created by Lord Brahma for man’s livelihood & the attainment of his desires.

Havan, or sacred fire, is an indispensable part of Vedic rituals.  In a Havan, ingredients such as guggle, loban, sugar, giloye, and rice are offered to fire along with ghee and wood, amidst chanting of sacred Vedic mantras, which are set to a particular note, rhythm and sound vibration. It has been proved that the havans have scientific importance and helps in removing airborne diseases and viruses.

The fumes that rise out of the sacred fires of the havan kund are known to reduce bacteria, and to kill fungi and pathogens in the atmosphere that increase after the monsoon. These are known to cause eye infections and viral fevers. The fumes emanating from this sacred fire reduce the level of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and sulfur dioxide (SO2) in the atmosphere. 

A havan has a purifying effect, offering environmental-friendly goods to fire and chanting of mantras re-energizes one’s chakras, producing a re-vitalized and invigorating effect for one’s the body as well as mind that leads to further success by swapping negative energies such as anger, rashness & irrational thinking with positive ones like calmness, tranquility and controlled attitudes.

Havan dispels negative and untoward energies by creating a protective shield around the place where the ceremony is performed. This kindles peace of mind, good health, which improves mental faculties and increases discriminating power, ensuring success in all goings-on.

It is not a simple ritual but an act of sacrifice and selfless contribution to the universe by the performers through this act. Thus, doing the sacred Havan in home can both reduce one’s negative karma and enhance one’s positive karma, which makes life more conducive to spiritual practice and which ultimately leads to the highest liberation.