Latest news with #Shiva
Time of India
4 hours ago
- Health
- Time of India
Heal your life – 1: Medical science embraces spiritual wisdom
The writer is a national-level swimmer and record-holding mountaineer. She also serves as vice-president of Tourist Guides Association, Mumbai, the only group of govt-approved guides, licensed and trained by the ministry of tourism LESS ... MORE Life is beautiful—and becomes even more meaningful when it is driven by purpose. At birth, most of us arrive with perfect bodies and pure minds. But as we grow, we unknowingly begin to pollute this perfection—with impure food, unhealthy lifestyles, negative thoughts, and toxic emotions. We spend the first half of our lives working hard to earn money and the other half spending that money on trying to restore our deteriorated health. Is there a way to live life fully while maintaining physical, emotional, and mental well-being? Can we live not just a long life, but a wholesome one? True wellness arises from a balance between the material and the spiritual. Importantly, spirituality is not about rituals—not about visiting temples daily and practising dishonesty outside them. It is about living a righteous, conscious life. The science behind spirituality Let's begin with a symbol familiar to all: the global medical emblem. Once represented by a red cross, it has now been largely replaced by the Caduceus—a rod with two serpents entwined around it, topped with wings and a glowing orb. This ancient Greek symbol, associated with Hermes (the messenger god), is rich with esoteric meaning. In spiritual science, this rod symbolises the spinal column, the central conduit of life force that governs all organs. Where the snakes cross corresponds to energy centres or chakras in the etheric/energy body. The two serpents represent the dual aspects of the nervous system—the motor and memory channels. In yogic philosophy, these are the Ida (lunar, feminine) and Pingala (solar, masculine) energy pathways. The central rod is the Sushumna, through which Kundalini energy—the coiled feminine power at the base of the spine—ascends when awakened, bringing wisdom and enlightenment. This concept is reflected across spiritual traditions: In Hinduism, Shiva's Trishul represents Ida, Pingala, and Sushumna. In Chinese Taoism, the concept of Yin and Yang parallels this duality; so does the Ardhanarishwar. The alchemical marriage in Western mysticism represents this energetic balance. Lord Ganesha's snake belt signifies that his Kundalini has reached the navel chakra. Cleopatra's serpent crown reflects her energy reaching the forehead chakra. Numerous deities—from Shiva Lingam, Gautam Buddha, Mahaveer, Lord Vishnu, etc.—are depicted with multi-headed serpents behind them, indicating varying degrees of awakened energy (3, 5, or 7 heads representing the layers opened). Even in modern times, this spiritual system underpins the very symbol of global medicine—a silent acknowledgement that spiritual science is now accepted by medical science. The unseen is not unreal Just because we cannot see something does not mean it doesn't exist. We cannot see love, anger, jealousy, or sorrow—yet we feel them powerfully. Similarly, the chakras, nadis, and aura are subtle energies that science is beginning to measure. Devices like Kirlian cameras and GDV cameras have now captured images of auras, emotions, and chakras, even the rise of Kundalini energy. Physics identifies four states of matter: solid, liquid, gas, and plasma. When gas is heated further, it becomes plasma—a state so refined that its particles are more dispersed than in air. Our bodies are made of all four: primarily liquid, then solid, gas, and subtle plasma. The yogic tradition describes several subtle bodies: Physical Body: Composed of organs, tissues, muscles, bones, etc. Etheric Body: Houses our senses and vitality. Emotional or Astral Body: Holds our emotions. Mental Body: Our thoughts reside here. Causal Body: Stores accumulated karma. When negative emotions and thoughts accumulate in the emotional and mental bodies, they filter into the physical body—eventually manifesting as disease. A real-life example Consider a young boy hospitalised with a fractured leg. After three weeks, expecting to be discharged, he is told he must stay for two more. Disappointed, he becomes emotionally low. His sadness deepens into depression. Though the injury is physical, the emotional body is now impacted. Gradually, this emotional burden affects his appetite, energy, and social behaviour—proving how intimately the bodies are interconnected. True healing, therefore, must address not just the physical, but the emotional and mental imbalances as well. The symbolism of the serpent and wings The snake—often feared—is a universal symbol of healing, rebirth, and transformation. It periodically molts or sheds its skin, which is a symbol of 'letting go,' releasing old patterns, regeneration, and renewal. The wings atop the Caduceus remind us to elevate our lives by balancing the material and the spiritual. The golden orb represents the illumined soul, our highest, most divine potential. The presence of the Caduceus in hospitals and clinics today affirms a subtle but powerful shift: modern medicine acknowledges the ancient wisdom of energy, consciousness, and spiritual balance. Spiritual science in modern healing Today, many chronic ailments are traced back to emotional or psychological roots. In the subsequent articles, all of which are inspired by the teachings of my guru, Pranic Healing founder Grand Master Choa Kok Sui, I will eleborate on the following topics: How lifelong suppressed anger can lead to arthritis and chronic back pain. How lifelong suppressed stress and worry are linked to diabetes. How lifelong suppressed resentment and bitterness can eventually affect kidney function severely. Understanding these patterns allows us to not only heal but transform. By integrating spiritual wisdom into daily life, we can live with clarity, vitality, joy, and good health. You may heal your body and your life with this wisdom. Facebook Twitter Linkedin Email Disclaimer Views expressed above are the author's own.
India Today
16 hours ago
- Lifestyle
- India Today
When is Karva Chauth 2025? Check date and puja muhurat
Karva Chauth is one of the most cherished festivals for married women in India, especially in the northern and western regions. This festival is a celebration of love, devotion, and the strong bond between husband and wife. On this day, married women fast from sunrise to moonrise, praying for the long life and well-being of their husbands. The festival is not just about fasting; it is a day filled with traditions, rituals, and stories that bring families together. Over the years, Karva Chauth has also become a symbol of togetherness and mutual respect in marriage, with some men even joining their wives in the fast. The festival is celebrated with much enthusiasm, colourful attire, and beautiful rituals that have been passed down through IS KARVA CHAUTH IN 2025? Karva Chauth in 2025 will be celebrated on Friday, 10 October. This day falls during the Hindu lunar month of Kartik, on the fourth day of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon), just a few days before CHAUTH 2025 PUJA MUHURAT AND MOONRISE TIMEPuja Muhurat: 5:57 PM to 7:11 PM (1 hour 14 minutes)Moonrise Time: 8:13 PMWomen begin their fast before sunrise and do not eat or drink anything during the day. The fast is broken only after sighting the moon and performing the final AND HOW KARVA CHAUTH IS OBSERVEDWomen wake up early before sunrise, eat 'sargi' (a pre-dawn meal), and begin their the day, they do not consume food or the evening, women gather for the Karva Chauth puja. They worship Lord Shiva, Goddess Parvati, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Kartikeya, and listen to the Karva Chauth Katha The puja is performed during the shubh muhurat, which in 2025 is between 5:57 PM and 7:11 PMAfter the moon rises at 8:13 PM, women view the moon through a sieve, offer water (arghya), and pray for their husbands' long fast is then broken, usually with the husband offering water and the first bite of food to his AND STORIESKarva Chauth is rooted in tales of devotion and sacrifice. The most popular story is of Queen Veervati, whose love and dedication brought her husband back to life. Another legend is about Karva, whose prayers saved her husband from danger. These stories inspire women to observe the fast with faith and KARVA CHAUTH IS IMPORTANTKarva Chauth is more than just a fast; it is a celebration of marital love and the strength of relationships. The rituals and prayers are believed to bring happiness, prosperity, and longevity to married couples. The festival also promotes family unity, as the celebrations often involve the entire household.
India.com
17 hours ago
- India.com
Journey Through Mumbai's Unmapped Streets To Find Historical Gems
Mumbai is known as the city of dreams and has skyscrapers, the iconic Gateway of India, Marine Drive, and other landmarks that are loved by everyone. But behind all that, there exists a set of unmapped alleys that tell a story of their own. Not everything is modernized, and these roads are the oldest in Mumbai, and need to be preserved. For a long time, these roads have kept the history, culture, and the citizens' pulse. Lost Alleys of South Mumbai South Mumbai, the city's oldest region, conceals some of the most fascinating untouched alleys. One of these alleys is located behind the very energetic Crawford Market. The din of the market diminishes as you walk deeper into this alley, leaving you with an unexplained stillness. The walls here tell the story of the area, adorned with graffiti and murals of when it was a flourishing center for traders. It further leads to a neglected old Parsi fire temple, which is almost incognito at the entrance among all the surrounding buildings. This majestic temple, which is one of the oldest in the city, showcases the Parsi community's stronghold in Mumbai. Framing the iconic Flora Fountain, another hidden treasure lies in the Fort section. A passage between two colonial structures is what leads to this hidden courtyard. This courtyard is truly untouched and the spaces invite relaxation. The courtyard is surrounded by dilapidated buildings, their rest already covered with sculptures signifying an ancient beauty. It was first inhabited by British officers and Indian merchants. Today, it is a dignified retreat for those who need to escape the hectic pace of life in the city. Magical Alleys of Bhuleshwar Bhuleshwar, is a savory and fragrant neighborhood in Central Mumbai that is an untapped goldmine of alleys showcasing the city's cultural and spiritual roots. At the center of Bhuleshwar lies an alley. While walking down, one can find small shops that sell incense, temple bells, Indian sweets, spices, and religious items. All of which creates a perfume-like fragrance and the soothing sound of temple bells heightens the experience. Mumbadevi Temple, which is small compared to other temples, is quite historical and stands at the tail end of this alley. It is believed that the goddess who the temple is dedicated to is the namesake of the city from which Mumbai derived its name from. Another alley leading in the opposite direction gives access to the Walkeshwar Temple. It's a majestic temple that is married intimately with nature having burnt down our banyan trees growing around it. This temple is a 'must visit' for anyone who adores Turbo and is dedicated to the Enlightened God known as Shiva and is believed to have been erected in the twelfth century AD by the Silhara dynasty for their love of nature. Stand grateful as the nature further nourishes Walkeshwar Temple with serenity as they burn with compassion the alley leading to it makes you fall in love with Mumbai with each step. Alleys of Girgaum Girgaum is one of the oldest parts of Mumbai. It is heavily uncharted so it is quite easy to get lost, but what you see makes the exploration worth it. One of the alleys is quite literally home to 'wadas' or traditional houses that are even more majestic from the inside. These walls are built in a traditional style and were owned by affluent Marathi families in the past. This style of architecture is slowly changing due to the conversion of these houses into small shops and cafes, but these places still capture the hearts of those who see them. One more alley goes to the renowned Kalbadevi Temple which is dedicated to the goddess Kali. Although the temple is not large, it is very famous and quite crowded on special days of the year. On the way to the temple, you pass one of the most beautiful and full of life alleys as people burst into devotional songs, children make colourful rangoli and you smell delicious prasad being served. Secret Alcoves Located in South Mumbai is Mazgaon, a neighbourhood with some of the most breathtaking alleys in the city. These alleys stand out in comparison to the wider parts of the city as they are vibrant and often peaceful. One such maze stretches out into the old Portuguese houses whose richly coloured pastel walls clash beautifully with the more modern buildings around. Their construction dates back to the 1600s and acts as a symbol for the colonial times. At times, the maze leads to a quaint chapel, which feels as if it has been pulled from a story book, and sits peacefully with beautifully crafted walls and stained glass windows. Yet another alley leads to the rustically named Dockyard Road, which used to be a commercialised region of shipbuilders and international traders. With time, it transformed into a more quiet region where vividly colourful alleyways are scattered across. Abandoned big sturdy wooden warehouses with rusty gates and decaying walls serve as a reminder to the city's port history. Heart of Mumbai The essence of Mumbai beats through these municipal lanes. Walking through them feels as if you have ventured into a magical land where the soul of the city thrives, waiting to be uncovered. These lanes remind us of Mumbai's culture, in a city that is 'in progress' all the time. They stand as proof for how Mumbai, and its citizens, have succeeded in maintaining their history, despite sweeping developments. Hence, when you are in Mumbai the next time, go a little off track, and investigate some of these unmapped paths. There's a chance you might find a tale that is unexplored and is looking for its narrator.
New Indian Express
20 hours ago
- Entertainment
- New Indian Express
Sambalpur's Sital Sasthi celebrations life-support for dying folk dance, music forms
SAMBALPUR: Every year, just ahead of the onset of monsoon, the streets of Sambalpur come alive with celebration of Sital Sasthi, marking the divine marriage of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. But beyond the rituals, the festival turns into a grand stage where forgotten folk arts are reborn, and generations-old dance forms get the spotlight. The festivities span over a week, transforming the streets of Sambalpur into a lively canvas of cultural expression. One of the most remarkable aspects of Sital Sasthi is its dedication to preserving and promoting folk art. Various folk dance forms, such as Gourbari, Kalas dance, Paika Akhada, Pashu Nrutya, Baja Salia, Chaiti Ghoda, Samparda, Parva dance, which were fading into oblivion, find a rejuvenated presence during the festival. These traditional dances are performed by local artistes, adding to the festival's festive fervour. While the divine marriage took place on the night of May 31, the carnival will begin on the night of June 1 and end the next day. Artistes will perform at the carnival which marks the homecoming of the deities after the marriage. Historian Deepak Panda said the Utkaliya Brahmin invited by Baliyar Singh, the fifth king of the Chouhan dynasty, introduced the tradition of Sital Sasthi to Sambalpur in 1679. The divine wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati was first celebrated at the Someswar Baba temple in Balibandha, initially as a ritualistic event. Over time, more devotees expressed interest in organising the festival. 'By the late 1700s, during Jayant Singh's reign, the Balunkeswar Shiva temple was established and the Jhadua Brahmins began parallel celebrations. To make processions more vibrant, organisers helped by local Gountias started inviting folk artistes, often driven by a spirit of competition,' he said.
Time of India
a day ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Hindu bloc repeats Ajmer Dargah claim
Hindu bloc repeats Ajmer Dargah claim Hindu Sena national president Vishnu Gupta, who filed a civil suit in an Ajmer court in Nov 2024 claiming existence of a Shiva temple underneath the dargah of Khwaja Moinuddin Chisti, on Saturday submitted that the replies filed by the dargah committee and ASI dismissing any evidence of a temple at the site be rejected. In his rejoinder filed on his plea by respondents, Union ministry of minority affairs, dargah committee and ASI-Gupta reiterated his claim of a temple at the site and the right to worship there. He described the respondents' replies as hindering justice and untenable. The court adjourned the hearing to July 19. The ASI stated in its reply that it had no proof of any such temple.
