Latest news with #Chaturmas
India Today
7 days ago
- Politics
- India Today
Meant fast-unto-death: Jain priest clarifies 'weapons' remark on pigeon-feeding ban
Mumbai-based Jain priest Rashtriya Sant Nilesh Muni Guru Maharaj has clarified his controversial statement threatening to "lift weapons" if a ban on pigeon feeding is not revoked. The priest said on Monday that his reference to weapons meant fast-unto-death, not violence."For a Jain, a weapon is fasting, nothing else. Lord Shantinath gave his life to save a pigeon. We can do the same," he priest's earlier remark drew political reactions, with Maharashtra BJP minister Mangal Prabhat Lodha expressing regret over it, and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Kishori Pednekar terming it "urban naxalism" to defy a court order. Nilesh Muni said he would not respond to political comments but would "urge Jains to come out and participate in fast-unto-death". "There is the Supreme Court, and there is God's court above all. We will do what Lord Shantinath did. I have come to Mumbai for Chaturmas. I don't want any political person's support," he the practice of feeding pigeons, the priest compared it to other religious customs. "Some sacrifice goats — that is their religion. We want to follow ours. People are dying due to drugs and alcohol, but nobody is bothered. Why is only our temple being targeted, and our beliefs hurt? In the Jain religion, it's said we must protect everyone from ants to elephants," he acknowledged concerns over health issues linked to pigeon feeding but maintained it was part of the Jain faith. "Still, I apologise if anyone is hurt due to my comments," he controversy began after authorities imposed restrictions on pigeon feeding in certain areas, citing health hazards. Nilesh Muni's remarks have since sparked a debate over religious freedom, public health, and the limits of protest.- Ends
Time of India
04-08-2025
- General
- Time of India
In Shravan, not only humans but nature itself also performs the Abhishek of Shiva
The nature scorched by the scorching heat of summer satisfies its thirst in Shravan, the earth dances in green attire and the devotees immersed in devotion say loudly – Bam Bam Bhole. All the seasons have their own special significance for maintaining the ecological cycle and its balance. But from the spiritual point of view, Shravan has a different significance in Sanatan Dharma. According to the Hindu calendar, Shravan is the fifth month of the year. This month is considered to be dedicated to the God of Gods, Mahadev. According to mythological beliefs, the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean) happened in the month of Shravan due to the demons' desire to attain immortality. According to Shiva Purana, during Samudra Manthan, along with other substances, the dreadful poison Halahal was also produced, which could have posed a terrible threat to the universe. To save the universe from this terrible threat, Mahadev drank this poison. Due to this poison, Mahadev's throat turned blue and he is also called Neelkanth. Due to the effect of Halahal poison, Mahadev's body started generating heat like thousands of volcanoes and Mahadev also seemed to be disturbed. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like These Photos Captured the Exact Wrong Moment Read More Undo Then, to give him relief, the deities performed Jalabhishek of him with water. Even today, the Kanwar Yatra held across the country is a symbol of this Jalabhishek. In the month of Sawan, lakhs of people in India perform Jalabhishek of Mahadev with the water of Ganga ji. Amrit Kalash was also produced from this Samudra Manthan which happened in the month of Shravan, and it was in the month of Shravan that all the three worlds received Amrit. According to Sanatan Dharma, Devshayani Ekadashi, also known as Harishayani Ekadashi or Padma Ekadashi, is celebrated on the Ekadashi of Shukla Paksha of Ashadh month. On this day, Lord Vishnu gives the charge of operating the universe to Mahadev and goes into Yog Nidra for four months (Shravan, Bhadrapada, Ashwin and Kartik), which is called Chaturmas. During this time, the operation of the universe is in the hands of Lord Shiva. Shravan month also comes in Chaturmas, and in Shravan, the operation of the universe is in the hands of Lord Shiva. This is also one of the many reasons why Shravan month is considered to be a month dedicated to Shiva. In the month of Sawan, the water Abhishek of Lord Shiva is considered as Rudrabhishek. Lord Shiva is pleased with the Rudra Abhishek of Lord Shiva in the month of Sawan and all the wishes of the person are fulfilled. According to astrology, Rudra Abhishek provides relief from Vish Yog, Kalsarp Dosh, etc. and brings happiness, prosperity and wealth. This article is written by Rajeev Aacharya, Astrologer, International Sanatan Dharm parishad nyas ujjain. Discover everything about astrology at Times of India , including daily horoscopes for Aries , Taurus , Gemini , Cancer , Leo , Virgo , Libra , Scorpio , Sagittarius , Capricorn , Aquarius , and Pisces . Read your detailed Horoscope Today and Horoscope Tomorrow here.
Time of India
09-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- Time of India
Chaturmas: What to do and not to do during the four sacred months after Devshayani Ekadashi
The Divine Pause in Cosmic Calendar There are many stories mentioned in our Vedic texts, like the Vedas, Puranas, etc. in the context of Chaturmas (literal meaning: four months), which begins after Devshayani Ekadashi. According to our scriptures, Devshayani Ekadashi creates a divine pause in the cosmic calendar. Scriptural Foundation and Lord Vishnu 's Cosmic Sleep As per the Skanda Purana and Padma Purana, Lord Vishnu, the protector of the universe, goes into Yoga Nidra (cosmic sleep) for four months, lying on Sheshnag in the Ksheer Sagar (cosmic ocean). He awakens on Devuthani Ekadashi, also known as Devotthan or Prabodhini Ekadashi, which falls on the eleventh day of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) in the Vedic calendar month of Kartik. This period is known as Chaturmas (Chatur = four, Maas = months). It is believed that all auspicious activities are paused during this time because the Preserver Himself is resting. Vishnu awakens on Kartik Shukla Ekadashi, also called Devuthani or Prabodhini Ekadashi. Historical Context and Practical Origins In Vedic times, sages and ascetics avoided travel during the rainy season due to practical reasons—flooded roads, diseases, and the protection of insects and new plant life. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like An engineer reveals: One simple trick to get internet without a subscription Techno Mag Learn More Undo Instead, they would stay in one place and engage in tapas (austerities), study, and meditation. This practice evolved into the Chaturmasya Vrata. Even Jain and Buddhist monks follow this tradition. These four months became a sacred window for discipline, minimalism, and purification. Activities to Embrace During Chaturmas Charity and Service (Annadaan) Charity and helping others during Chaturmas are considered highly auspicious. Offering food, clothes, or donations to the needy helps neutralize bad karma and brings blessings. Annadaan (food donation) holds special significance. Spiritual Practices and Worship Devotees are encouraged to observe fasts, especially on all Ekadashis from Devshayani Ekadashi to Devuthani or Devprabodhini Ekadashi, which marks the end of Chaturmas. Fasting aids in controlling desires, cleansing the body, and strengthening the mind. One should worship Lord Vishnu with devotion, recite the Vishnu Sahasranama, and chant the mantra "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya", which aligns the devotee with divine energies and enhances spiritual focus. Sacred Study and Self-Reflection Devotees are also encouraged to read sacred texts such as the Bhagavad Gita, Vishnu Purana, or perform daily recitations of devotional hymns. This period is ideal for deepening one's understanding of dharma (righteousness) and practicing inner discipline. Activities to Avoid During Chaturmas Auspicious Ceremonies and New Ventures Certain activities are avoided during Chaturmas. Weddings, housewarming ceremonies, mundan rituals, and new business ventures are usually postponed, as it is believed that divine energy is at rest, and initiating new ventures may not receive full blessings. Environmental Restraint People are also advised to avoid digging the earth, cutting trees, or harming living beings during this time, as nature is in a regenerative state. Even unnecessary travel is discouraged to support the theme of stillness and reflection. Dietary Guidelines for Spiritual Purity During these four months, it is advisable to follow a sattvic diet, avoiding onion, garlic, meat, fish, and alcohol. Consuming light, pure, vegetarian food helps maintain physical and mental purity, keeping the mind calm and sattvic (spiritually inclined). Personal Vows and Spiritual Discipline Many people take a personal vow (niyam) during Chaturmas such as avoiding certain foods, speaking less, or not sleeping on a bed—to cultivate self-control and spiritual awareness. These vows serve as tapas (austerity), building inner strength. The Spiritual Significance: Inner Transformation The four months of Chaturmas are an opportunity to detox life—not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually. By simplifying our lifestyle, reducing sensory overload, and cultivating devotion, we align ourselves with higher consciousness. Spiritually, Devshayani Ekadashi symbolizes a turning point in the year—a time to withdraw from outer actions and focus on inner purification. Just as Lord Vishnu rests, cosmic energy becomes inward facing, supporting practices like prayer, meditation, self-discipline, and self-study. A Sacred Window for Growth Chaturmas represents more than just a religious observance; it is a holistic approach to spiritual development that encompasses physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. This four-month period offers devotees a structured framework for deepening their spiritual practice while maintaining harmony with natural cycles and cosmic rhythms. Discover everything about astrology at the Times of India , including daily horoscopes for Aries , Taurus , Gemini , Cancer , Leo , Virgo , Libra , Scorpio , Sagittarius , Capricorn , Aquarius , and Pisces .
Time of India
06-07-2025
- General
- Time of India
Devshayani Ekadashi 2025: Astrological insights and planetary significance
The Sacred Cosmic Pause Devshayani Ekadashi, also known as Ashadhi Ekadashi , stands as one of the most spiritually significant observances in the Hindu calendar. Falling on the eleventh day (Ekadashi Tithi) of the Shukla Paksha (bright half) in the month of Ashadha, this sacred day marks the beginning of Chaturmas, a four-month period during which Lord Vishnu is believed to enter Yogic sleep (Yoga Nidra) on the cosmic ocean of milk (Ksheersagar). In 2025, Devshayani Ekadashi falls on Sunday, July 6, 2025. According to the Hindu Panchang, the Ekadashi tithi begins at 6:58 PM on July 5, 2025, and ends at 9:14 PM on July 6, 2025. Since the tithi overlaps with sunrise on July 6, the fast and rituals will be observed on Sunday, July 6, 2025. The Mythological Foundation According to Hindu scriptures and the Bhavishyottara Purana, it is believed that Lord Vishnu falls asleep in Kshira Sagara, the cosmic ocean of milk, on Shesha, the cosmic serpent. He enters into Yoga Nidra for four months and awakens on Prabodhini Ekadashi, which falls in the month of Kartik. This period is known as Chaturmas, a time reserved for deep spiritual reflection, penance, and austerity. According to religious texts, the Shankhasura demon was killed on Ekadashi Tithi in Ashadha Shukla Paksha. From that day, the Lord sleeps in the Ksheer sea for four months. Following Lord Vishnu, all three deities reside in their respective abodes for designated periods: Vishnu performs from Devshayani Ekadashi to Devuthani Ekadashi, Shiva from Mahashivratri, and Brahma from Shivaratri to Devshayani Ekadashi. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Providers are furious: Internet access without a subscription! Techno Mag Learn More Undo Astrological Significance and Planetary Influences The Cosmic Stillness of Chaturmas Lord Vishnu's entry into Yoga Nidra on Devshayani Ekadashi marks a cosmic stillness, where divine and planetary energies shift inward, encouraging introspection, spiritual discipline, and detachment from material pursuits. The planetary situation and the natural conditions in Chaturmas are quite conducive to moral and spiritual upliftment of human beings. Jupiter's Sacred Connection As Lord Vishnu governs the planet Jupiter (Guru), Devshayani Ekadashi is an auspicious day for individuals under the influence of a weak Jupiter or during Jupiter Mahadasha/Antardasha to perform Vishnu puja or seek astrological remedies. Rahu-Ketu Dosha, Pitru Dosha, and Guru Chandal Yoga can also be mitigated by fasting and praying on this day. Chanting Vishnu Gayatri Mantra and offering yellow flowers during Vishnu Puja can enhance Jupiter's positive effects. During Chaturmas, Jupiter's influence becomes more subtle, encouraging spiritual practices, studies, and inner purification, enhancing Jupiter's sattvic energy, promoting knowledge, devotion, and righteous living. The Sun's Transit and Karka Sankranti Around Devshayani Ekadashi, the Sun moves into the Cancer sign through Karka Sankranti. The god, primarily Lord Vishnu, is believed to go into sleep for four months on Karka Sankranti, which falls on the day of Devshayani Ekadashi. During Karka Sankranti, the Sun is in the sign of Cancer, which is ruled by the Moon. This creates an emotional and devotional shift, making it ideal for bhakti, fasting, prayer, and meditation. Cancer is a watery, sensitive, and spiritual sign, increasing receptivity to divine grace. Karka Sankranti marks the day when the Sun enters Karka rashi (Cancer), signifying the beginning of the Sun's southern journey, known as Dakshinayana. Ekadashi and the Lunar Cycle: Scientific Foundation Moon's Influence on Mind and Body Ekadashi fasting is directly connected to the lunar cycle, especially the Moon's (Chandra) impact on the mind. The gravitational pull of the moon is not felt on the earth every day with the same intensity. On the eleventh day of each lunar cycle, the moon forms a trine with the earth and the sun during which the atmospheric pressure is at its lowest on the day of Ekadashi. The impact of the atmospheric pressure on the human body is also at its lowest on that day. Hence, Ekadashi is considered to be the most favourable day to observe fast and cleanse the body of all toxins. Spiritual and Physical Benefits According to the Hindu scriptures, Ekadasi and the movement of the moon has a direct correlation with the human mind. It is believed that during Ekadasi, our mind attains maximum efficiency giving the brain a better capacity to concentrate. Spiritual seekers are said to devote the two monthly days of Ekadasi in extreme worship and meditation owing to its favorable influence on the mind. From the 11th day till 5th day after newmoon or fullmoon day, moon will influence us maximum and imbalance our digestive system. This will also cause decrease in brain's functioning and cause weakness in memory, thought and decision making. So, to avoid all these complications, it's important to clean our digestive system on every 11th day of lunar cycle. Spiritual Practices and Observances Fasting Guidelines and Rituals To prepare for Devshayani Ekadashi, devotees begin by observing certain rituals on the preceding Dashami Tithi. They avoid tamasic food, salt, barley, meat, wheat and masoor dal, and sleep on the ground to purify their minds and bodies. It's essential to speak truthfully and avoid hurtful speech on both Dashami and Ekadashi Tithis. On Ekadashi day, devotees observe various types of fasting: Nirjala Ekadashi (without food or water), consuming only fruits and milk, while grains and cereals are strictly avoided. Staying awake through the night and singing devotional songs is considered meritorious. Worship Practices On Devshayani Ekadashi, devotees should get up early in the morning, clean the house, and spray it with holy water. Establish a gold, silver, copper or bronze idol of Lord Shri Hari Vishnu at the place of worship. After that worship him with Shodashopachar (sixteen-fold worship). After this, adorn Lord Vishnu with Pitambar (yellow garments). Then listen to the fasting story, do aarti and distribute the prasad. Shri Vishnu should be made to sleep on a bed covered with white sheets. The fast is broken after sunrise on the Dwadashi tithi with sattvic food. Charity - giving donations (daan), feeding cows, Brahmins, and the poor is encouraged. Chaturmas: The Four-Month Sacred Period Spiritual Significance During these four months — collectively known as Chaturmas — auspicious events such as weddings and new business ventures are generally avoided. Instead, the focus shifts toward devotion, self-discipline, and inner growth. During this phase, reciting religious hymns, doing kirtan and worshipping Shiva, along with Lord Vishnu, Goddess Lakshmi, and Tulsi have special significance. Natural Alignment From a scientific point of view, with the onset of Chaturmas, monsoon begins or becomes active in different parts of India. According to astrological beliefs, due to a lot of moisture in the atmosphere during these months, many types of microorganisms are born and they can harm the human body directly or indirectly. The Pandharpur Connection In Pandharpur, Maharashtra, thousands of devotees undertake the Wari Yatra culminating on Ashadhi Ekadashi. The grand procession of Varkaris (devotees) singing Abhangas (devotional songs) while walking barefoot to the Vitthal temple is a remarkable spiritual movement. Pandharpur houses the much revered and famous Bhagwan Vitthala/Vithoba temple, where on the auspicious day of Devshayani Ekadashi thousands of devotees come from all over Maharashtra to offer prayer and respect to Shri Vitthala and Devi Rukmini. Health and Wellness Benefits Physical Detoxification Fasting on Ekadashi allows the body to undergo a process of detoxification and cleansing. By abstaining from solid foods and consuming light, sattvic (pure) meals or fasting completely, the digestive system gets a break. This allows the body to eliminate toxins, improve liver function, and promote cellular repair and rejuvenation. Mental Clarity and Focus Fasting on Ekadashi can lead to increased mental clarity and focus. When the body is not occupied with the digestion process, mental energy is directed towards other activities. This heightened state of mental clarity allows for improved concentration, focus, and cognitive function, facilitating deeper introspection and spiritual practices. Parana (Breaking the Fast) Guidelines In 2025, the Parana timings for Devshayani Ekadashi are from 05:29 AM to 08:16 AM on July 7, 2025, with the Dwadashi End Moment at 11:10 PM on July 7. The fast should be broken after sunrise on the Dwadashi tithi with sattvic food. Contemporary Relevance and Global Recognition Fasting is ever popular and much research has gone into the health benefits of regular fasting, particularly following the phases of the moon with Ekadashi fasting. Although embedded in Indian culture, the science has attracted global attention, with various celebrities embracing this ultimate Vedic cleanse. A Sacred Journey Inward Devshayani Ekadashi is not just about ritual fasting—it is an invitation to pause, reflect, and realign with higher spiritual goals. As Lord Vishnu sleeps, devotees awaken their own inner consciousness through dhyana, japa, and vrat. Devshayani Ekadashi commences the auspicious Chaturmas, which is the most suitable phase for the spiritual development of individuals. Additionally, during Devshayani Ekadashi performing Vishnu puja, Laxmi puja or Shiva puja is highly beneficial as you reap huge benefits. This sacred Ekadashi marks the beginning of a holy inward journey, not just for devotees but for the cosmic rhythm itself. In astrology, this is a time when solar and lunar energies align to support purification and introspection. With Lord Vishnu in divine rest, this period invites us to also pause, purify, and prepare through devotion, silence, and simplicity. According to the Padma Purana, fasting on this day destroys the sins committed, intentional or unintentional. Devshayani Ekadashi reminds us that true progress comes not always through action, but often through rest, reflection, and alignment with dharma (the righteous path). Discover everything about astrology at the Times of India , including daily horoscopes for Aries , Taurus , Gemini , Cancer , Leo , Virgo , Libra , Scorpio , Sagittarius , Capricorn , Aquarius , and Pisces .
Time of India
06-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
What to eat and avoid during the Shravan month
The auspicious month of Shravan is here, marking the beginning of a divine journey of spirituality and sacred fasting. As the monsoon showers set in, devotees of Lord Shiva embark on a path of devotion, seeking blessings through fasting and other rituals. As devotees observe these sacred rituals, they seek spiritual growth, inner peace, and divine blessings from Lord Shiva. Known as Chaturmas, this period holds great significance in Hindu culture, kicking off festivities that continue throughout the year. Mondays, or 'Sawan ka Somwar', are particularly holy, with Shravan Somwar Vrat being a revered observance, filled with spiritual significance and promise of peace, happiness, and prosperity. With faith and devotion, this month becomes a transformative journey for many. Food you can eat during Somwar Ka Vrat A well-planned diet is crucial to maintain strength and health throughout the month. Here's a guide to help you make informed choices: Fruits salad Rajgira paratha Sabudana, rajgeera, arrowroot, foxnuts (makhana), and buckwheat Milk and milk products like curd, buttermilk, paneer, and ghee Nuts, dates, raisins, and dry fruits Coconut water Certain vegetables like sweet potatoes, colocasia (arbi), bottle gourd, and potatoes Rock salt, black pepper, coriander What you can avoid during your fast When observing a fast during the Sawan month, it's essential to avoid certain foods including: Grains, rice, and lentils Certain vegetables like onion, garlic, and radish Spices like hing, asafoetida, red chilli, and turmeric All types of salt except rock salt Fenugreek (meethi) and other seeds Jaggery Guidelines for a healthy fast Drink lots of water to stay hydrated. Eat light, nutritious meals. Eat fiber-rich food to aid digestion. Eat healthy sattvic foods that will nourish your body and spirit. Also read | Are smoothies a healthy breakfast option? Benefits, drawbacks, and how to make them right
