Latest news with #LordKrishna
Mint
2 days ago
- Politics
- Mint
African man enrages netizens as he eats chicken inside ISKCON's Govinda restaurant in London: ‘Hindus have to act rough'
An African-British man has stirred a controversy online as he 'shamelessly' ate chicken at London's Govinda restaurant, a well-known pure vegetarian restaurant operated by ISKCON. Enraged by the act, netizens have called for Hindus to unite and start acting rough and tough. In the viral video being widely criticised, the man can be seen walking into the restaurant and asking the staff if they serve meat at their purely vegetarian outlet. However, after they informed him that the restaurant only served vegetarian food, the man pulled out a takeaway box of KFC chicken and began eating it at the counter. He is also seen offering the chicken to the staff and customers. The video has triggered strong reactions from social media users, who have called it a blatant disrespect of the restaurant's spiritual and cultural values. Amid calls for action against the man, several users also questioned why the Hindus did not stand up for themselves. 'Such behaviour is entirely inappropriate and disruptive, showing a complete disregard for the sanctity of the space and the feelings of those present. It highlights a troubling lack of empathy,' said a user. 'Hindus can run away from India but will still get pushed around. We need to have shatrubodh and community unity. Then push back strongly,' a user said, adding, 'Hindus have to act rough and tough.' 'This is the problem with Hinduism. Your benevolence is being taken as weakness,' said another user. Another added, 'Anyone can come and insult the religion, why can't Hindus stand up for themselves and form a deep state of their own in the US just like the Jews did to influence US policies and decision making?' 'So why did not the COWARDLY HINDUS give him a SOUND THRASHING, eh?' asked an angry netizen. 'Walking into a temple canteen with chicken isn't rebellion — it's cultural illiteracy served with zero self-respect,' another added. A few users also used Lord Krishna references while calling for an action against the man. 'Devotees should follow Lord Krishna's policy. Namely, being nice to sādhus, and kicking butt of all such dushtas. This blanket unconditional humility and submissiveness didn't work in Dwāpara, and definitely won't work in Kaliyuga. (It didn't work in Tretā either, btw)' a user said. 'Slit his throat right there. Even LORD Shri Krishna said... If they want WAR give them WAR,' added another. A user also claimed that the act was purely done for a few likes on social media, and said, 'These are insects in the society, doing anything to get engagement on social media and look cool. This is a virus that is going to destroy generations to come.' 'Apart from horrendous, what is he trying to do and why? Is he offended that people can be vegetarians? Or are people waiting to use or misuse someone that doesn't know what they're doing?' asked another user.
Time of India
3 days ago
- Lifestyle
- Time of India
Kamika Ekadashi and Sawan Somvaar align in 2025: 6 Reasons to use the Vaijyanti Maala
Kamika Ekadashi happens on a Sawan Somvaar on July 21, 2025, which is a very important day in the Hindu spiritual calendar. People believe that Kamika Ekadashi can forgive sins and lift the soul, whereas Sawan Somvaar, which is devoted to Lord Shiva, is recognized for showing devotion, healing, and heavenly grace. This unusual alignment makes the day spiritually charged, which is great for prayer, fasting, and meditation. The Vaijyanti Maala, a garland of seeds associated to Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna, is one of the sacred tools that might help you practice more on this day. It represents for purity, victory, and divine love. What is the Vaijyanti Maala? The seeds of the Vaijyanti plant, which grows in forests, are used to make the Vaijyanti Maala. "Vaijyanti" means "that which brings victory." The Puranas say that Lord Vishnu wore it as a garland, and it is often linked to Lord Krishna's loving and triumphant attitude. This is especially good for people who are on a spiritual journey that involves love and surrender to find inner peace and connect with God. Six Powerful Benefits of the Vaijyanti Maala Deepens Devotion and Spiritual Focus Japa, or repeating mantras, is best done with the Vaijyanti Maala, especially with mantras that are devoted to Lord Vishnu, Lord Krishna, or Lord Shiva. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Is it legal? How to get Internet without paying a subscription? Techno Mag Learn More Undo It helps the mind stay in one place, which makes it easier to concentrate when you pray or meditate. Brings Victory Over Inner and Outer Obstacles This garland stands for triumph, as the name says. People think that it helps the individual who wears it get over their own problems, worries, and distractions on the spiritual path by giving them clarity, courage, and discipline. Enhances Love, Harmony, and Relationships The Vaijyanti Maala has something to do with the heart's energy. It helps people recover emotionally, accept themselves, and forgive others. People who want to start or improve love relationships based on respect and a spiritual connection can use this maala. Protects Against Negativity and Low Vibrations The seeds of the Vaijyanti plant have a vibration that protects them. It is stated that wearing the maala or keeping it in your sacred area will protect your aura from bad energy, jealousy, and bad intentions. Calms the Mind and Reduces Anxiety This mala gives off a calming energy that helps you relax and stop worrying. Because it is anchoring, it is great for people who are going through emotional turbulence, mental exhaustion, or spiritual restlessness. Activates the Heart Chakra and Elevates Compassion The Vaijyanti seeds are said to function on the heart chakra, which is the place where love, empathy, and connection come from. Using it often can help you open your heart to God's love, feel more compassion, and be better able to offer and accept love freely. How to Use the Vaijyanti Maala on Kamika Ekadashi 2025 and Sawan Somvaar 2025 Cleanse the Maala by sprinkling it with water or passing it through incense. Chant with Intention using mantras of Shiva and Vishnu Wear It for atleast 24 mins on this auspicious day (Ideally for the complete day) Avoid Letting Others Touch It as it absorbs personal energy and should be treated as sacred. 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
6 days ago
- General
- Time of India
Pitru Paksha 2025 start date and end date: Know Shradh dates, rituals, significance and more
Shradh 2025 start and end date: Pitru Paksha or Shradh is a 15-day period that will start on September 7 with Purnima Shradh and will conclude on September 21 with Sarva Pitri Amavasya. During these days, Hindus show respect and offer prayers to their ancestors and forefathers. Pitru Paksha is observed with special rituals, and people follow a simple lifestyle. It is believed that performing Shradh rituals during this time helps the souls of ancestors find peace and attain moksha (salvation). The last day of Pitru Paksha is called Sarvapitri Amavasya or Mahalaya Amavasya, which is considered very important during this period. When does Pitru Paksha start and end in 2025? According to the Hindu calendar, Pitru Paksha begins on the full moon (Purnima) day of Shukla Paksha in the month of Bhadrapada and ends on the new moon (Amavasya) day of Krishna Paksha. This year, Shradh will start on Sunday, 7th September 2025 and will end on Sunday, 21st September 2025. Pitru Paksha 2025 tithi dates Why is Pitru Paksha important? Pitru Paksha is a time to show love and respect to your departed family members. Hindus believe that offering food, prayers, and rituals during this time brings peace to the souls of ancestors. It is also said that these actions help the souls to reach moksha (salvation). Pitru Paksha (Shradh) rituals People follow certain rituals and customs during these 15 days. These include: 1. Tarpan This is the act of offering water and black sesame seeds (til) to ancestors. It is believed to quench their thirst in the afterlife. 2. Pinda Daan In this ritual, people offer rice balls made with ghee and sesame seeds to their ancestors. This is done to nourish their souls and help them find peace. 3. Shradh Ceremony Many families perform a proper Shradh puja, where they offer food, clothes, and other items to priests or Brahmins. This is seen as a good deed done in memory of the departed. 4. Charity and Donations Giving food, clothes, or money to the poor or to temples is common during Pitru Paksha. It is believed to bring blessings from the ancestors and help their souls rest peacefully. 5. Visiting Ancestral Places Some people go to their native villages or burial spots to perform the rituals and show respect to their elders who have passed away. 6. Fasting Many people also observe fasts during these 15 days to show devotion and respect for their ancestors. Pitru Paksha history & significance: Here's a brief overview of the history and significance of Pitru Paksha: Mention in Hindu Scriptures The idea of respecting and remembering our ancestors comes from Hindu scriptures like the Vedas and Puranas. These texts say that offering prayers and food to the souls of our departed family members during Shradh helps bring them peace in the afterlife. Teachings in the Bhagavad Gita In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna talks about the importance of offering food to ancestors. He explains that it is not just a tradition but also a form of devotion. Doing these rituals during Pitru Paksha helps one receive blessings and grow spiritually. Story of King Mahabali Another well-known tale is about King Mahabali. He was a kind and just ruler. According to mythology, Lord Vishnu came to him in the form of Vamana during Pitru Paksha and sent him to the underworld. But because of Mahabali's goodness, he was given a special blessing—to visit his people once a year during this time. This visit is celebrated as Onam in Kerala. Story from the Mahabharata The Mahabharata, one of the oldest epics in India, has a story linked to Pitru Paksha. Karna, a well-known character, is said to have donated food and wealth during this time. Because of his kind deeds, he earned great rewards. This story shows why doing good things during Pitru Paksha is important. Importance of Amavasya and Tarpan The last day of Pitru Paksha is Mahalaya Amavasya, which is the most special day of this period. On this day, people perform Tarpan or Shraddha rituals that include offering water, food, and prayers to their ancestors. It is believed that these offerings bring peace to the souls of the departed and bring blessings to the family. Why Pitru Paksha Still Matters Today Pitru Paksha is still followed with great faith by many Hindu families. People come together to remember their ancestors by offering pind daan (rice balls) and doing other rituals. It is believed that these acts help the souls of ancestors rest in peace and also bring good fortune to the living. Pitru Paksha reminds us how important family is and how strong the bond is between past and present generations. It teaches us that honouring our forefathers brings harmony, blessings, and spiritual progress in life. (Note: Dates/timings may be subject to change; details mentioned here are as per the information available.) For more informative articles on historical and upcoming events from around the world, please visit Indiatimes Events.
IOL News
14-07-2025
- Politics
- IOL News
Maha Sabha hosts webinar on national dialogue
Swami Vedanand Saraswati will be one of the speakers at the event. GIVEN the ever-increasing challenges, open and constructive dialogue is paramount for progress and harmony in our nation. The South African Hindu Maha Sabha will host a thought-provoking webinar on July 19 at 2pm to engage in the national dialogue to reflect, contribute, and shape a united, inclusive, and just South Africa. Also to address real-life challenges and dilemmas has been an essential feature of Hinduism since its inception, and scriptures often feature this method for conveying spiritual principles for righteous living. The most prominent example would be the dialogue between Lord Krishna and Arjuna in the Bhagavad Gita.
The Hindu
13-07-2025
- The Hindu
Vallasadya season begins at Aranmula
The rhythmic chants and sweep of palliyodams (snake boats) have once again returned to the banks of the Pampa River as the season of Vallasadya, a unique ritualistic feast associated with the Onam festivities at the Aranmula Sree Parthasarathy temple, commenced on Sunday. Hundreds of devotees gathered at the temple premises here to take part in the event. By morning, oarsmen on board seven palliyodams (snake boats) arrived at the temple ghats to a rousing reception. The oarsmen, clad in traditional attire, were welcomed with betel leaves, areca nuts and tobacco, before being ceremoniously led into the temple grounds. In a scene charged with devotional fervour, the boat crews circumambulated the sanctum, chanting the vibrant verses of the Vanchippattu (boat songs) in praise of Lord Krishna, the temple's presiding deity. Transport Minister K.B. Ganesh Kumar formally inaugurated the event by lighting the ceremonial lamp. Health Minister Veena George, MP Anto Antony, and other dignitaries were also present . This year, 52 palliyodams from villages lining both sides of the Pampa, from Idakkulam to Chennithala in Alappuzha —will participate in the celebrations. A major cultural spectacle, the Vallasadya and the accompanying regatta have long been a magnet for pilgrims and tourists alike. The famed Aranmula boat race is scheduled for September 9, followed by the grand Ashtami Rohini Vallasadya on September 14. The season will culminate on October 2. To ensure the smooth conduct of the celebrations, a special committee formed by the Palliyoda Seva Sangham (PSS) is overseeing the arrangements. Security has been intensified in and around the temple precincts and a fire and safety scuba diving team has been deployed at the river ghats.
