Latest news with #Vishnu
Time of India
16 hours ago
- General
- Time of India
For 200 yrs, remote U'khand temple has had men & women as priests
Dehradun: A centuries-old Vishnu shrine in a forested Himalayan valley in the upper reaches of Chamoli district has quietly been appointing a man and a woman each year for more thanm two centuries to serve jointly as priests. This year, the Phulanarayan temple in Urgam valley opened its doors last week, marking the beginning of a 45-day ritual calendar that ends on Sept 2, the day of Nanda Ashtami. Rajeshwari Devi and Vivek Singh, selected a year in advance by the local panchayat, have taken on the responsibilities of priesthood for this cycle. Devi, a resident of Bharki village and aged above 55 as required, is in charge of floral arrangements, preparing tulsi garlands, and cooking prasada for the devotees. Singh, from neighbouring Baintha village, leads the main aarti and prayers. Both remain within the temple premises throughout the 45-day period. No official record traces the exact origins of this practice in Phulanarayan. But for the communities of Bharki and Baintha, it simply continues — an annual partnership shaped not by political declarations but by quiet repetition. There is no spectacle or assertion of modernity here. Just a garland of tulsi, handed to a woman, who steps without hesitation into a role still forbidden to many others. "It is an honour for a woman to be given the key responsibility. As the announcement is made in advance, we do not have any problem," said Devi, seated beside baskets of fresh tulsi and wildflowers. Chandra Mohan Panwar, a local who has observed the tradition for over five decades, added, "This is something passed down from the time of our forefathers. Each priest has different but essential tasks." The temple's elevation — close to 3,000 metres above sea level — only adds to its isolation. The approach road from Helang to Kalpeshwar stretches for 13 km and is in utter disrepair. From Kalpeshwar, a steep 4 km trek through deodar and oak forest is required to reach Phulanarayan. Unlike Kalpeshwar Mahadev — a cave shrine nearby that is part of the Panch Kedar circuit and is now accessible year-round with a road reaching within 300 metres — the Phulanarayan temple remains disconnected from motorable routes and entirely off-grid. Savita Devi, the president of the Mahila Mangal Dal of Bharki village, said, "The road from Helang to Urgam village is in poor condition. We demand that the construction of this road be prioritised, as it could boost pilgrimage and tourism activities here." She added that many travellers visit, but there are no facilities for them. Another resident of the same village, Govind Devi, said, "Although our village is quite behind in terms of development, we are ahead in social support and harmony. " Urgam valley itself is steeped in spiritual significance. In addition to Kalpeshwar Mahadev, it hosts several ancient shrines: Dhyan Badri, Urva Rishi, and Bansi Narayan. The last, an 8th-century shrine dedicated to Lord Krishna situated around 3,600 metres, opens only once a year on Raksha Bandhan. On that day, women from nearby villages tie rakhis directly onto the deity — another rare practice that underscores the valley's unusual spiritual rhythms. Brijesh Sati, general secretary of Char Dham Teerth Purohit Mahapanchayat, told TOI, "Right from parliament to the streets, we keep talking about gender equality. This temple, in one of the most difficult terrains, has shown what it looks like in practice." He added that Phulanarayan may well be the only Vishnu temple in India where a female priest serves alongside a male counterpart in full religious capacity.
India Today
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- India Today
Faith Will Roar promo: Mahavatar Narsimha's epic track has B Praak's soulful vocals
The 'Faith Will Roar' song from 'Mahavatar Narsimha' was released, depicting the divine world of the Mahavatar Cinematic Universe. The musical promo shows Lord Vishnu's most fierce incarnation with epic visuals and singer B Praak's soulful vocals.'Faith Will Roar' offers a glimpse of the film's breathtaking VFX and thrilling moments. With its goosebumps-worthy background score, the track makes it clear that the film is set to deliver a story with spectacular visuals like never experienced before on the big screen. The Sanskrit lyrics describe the aura, inevitability, power and fierceness of Lord the destruction of demons to saving devotees, the track gives insight into the fight between good and evil. The breathtaking sequences symbolise faith and devotion against hate and cruelty. 'Faith Will Roar' is sung by B Praak and composed, arranged, and programmed by Sam CS. Watch promo here: The trailer of the animation film narrates the story of Prahlada, a devout follower of Lord Vishnu, who defies his father, Hiranyakashipu - a powerful atheist blessed with immortality by Lord Brahma. The film revolves around this central conflict, spotlighting Prahlada's unwavering devotion amidst fierce familial film's director, Ashwin Kumar at an event in IFFI Goa, said that the story is based on three ancient Puranas (vast genre of Indian literature that include a wide range of topics, especially legends and other traditional lore).He said, "We wanted to change this perception and create a film for all audiences. Through Mahavatar Narsimha, we've proven that Indian VFX and animation can meet global standards."'Mahavatar Narsimha' is part of Hombale Films and Kleem Productions' lineup of ambitious animated franchise, known as the Mahavatar Cinematic Universe. The movies will span over a decade and chronicle the divine avatars of Lord Vishnu: Mahavatar Narsimha (2025), Mahavatar Parshuram (2027), Mahavatar Raghunandan (2029), Mahavatar Dwarkandhish (2031), Mahavatar Gokulananda (2033), Mahavatar Kalki Part 1 (2035), and Mahavatar Kalki Part 2 (2037).'Mahavatar Narsimha' is co-produced by Shilpaa Dhawan, Kushal Desai, and Chaitanya Desai under the banner of Kleem Productions, presented by Hombale Films. The epic animation film will also be released in 3D and in five Indian languages, namely - Hindi, Telugu, Kannada, Tamil, and movie is scheduled to release in theatres on July 25, 2025.- Ends
News18
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- News18
Vishnu Manchu's Kannappa To Release On OTT? Here's What We Know
Last Updated: Vishnu Manchu had earlier said that the movie's OTT rights had yet to be sold. Kannappa, a mythological drama produced by actor Vishnu Manchu, was released in theatres on June 27. The film starring Akshay Kumar, Prabhas, Mohanlal, Kajal Aggarwal and Vishnu himself, has received a lot of appreciation for its gripping story. In the midst of enormous buzz around the picture, reports suggest that just after 4 weeks since its release, the movie is likely to start streaming on OTT. According to 123Telugu, Kannappa, starring Vishnu Manchu, will be released on Amazon Prime Video on July 25. If the claim is correct, the movie will be available on digital platforms less than a month after its theatrical premiere as opposed to what Vishnu Manchu has earlier stated. During a pre-release event, Vishnu Manchu made it clear that the film will not be available on any streaming platform immediately. Vishnu revealed that the film's OTT rights had yet to be sold, which is a deliberate decision that would allow the film to have a longer theatrical run without the constraints of its OTT release date. Vishnu said, 'I have a very large freedom; my movie will not come to OTT before 10 weeks. That is the deal I have, and by God's grace, I don't have any release pressure. My only intention is to showcase the best to the audience," as quoted by India Today. The movie features an amazing cast and noteworthy cameos. Vishnu Machu portrays a valiant warrior who transforms into Lord Shiva's devoted servant, Bhaktha Kannappa. Akshay Kumar plays Lord Shiva, Prabhas portrays Rudra, while Mohanlal delivers a stunning performance as Kirata. Kannappa tells the story of Thinnadu, a young, ferocious tribal hunter who is atheist. However, one day, the man uncovers a Shiva Lingam in the forest that changes the course of his life. The film was produced by Twenty-Four Frames Factory and AVA Entertainment. Kannappa, which has been released in five languages (Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam, Kannada and Hindi), provides a visually magnificent and emotionally profound spectacle about devotion and mythology. First Published: July 23, 2025, 10:22 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
News18
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- News18
Ashwin Kumar's Mahavatar Narsimha Gets U/A Certificate From CBFC
Ashwin Kumar's Mahavatar Narsimha receives a U/A certificate from CBFC. The animated film, based on Vishnu's avatar, hits theatres on July 25, 2025. Mahavatar Narsimha is all set to redefine cinematic storytelling with its epic scale, breathtaking visuals, and compelling narrative. Following the monumental announcement of the Mahavatar Cinematic Universe, the highly anticipated trailer was finally unveiled, leaving audiences awestruck. Packed with spine-chilling visuals and high-octane moments, the trailer also offered a powerful glimpse into the various avatars of Lord Vishnu. After the trailer drop, all eyes were on the censorship certificate of the animated drama. Now, the CBFC has granted the film a U/A certificate, which means Unrestricted Public Exhibition subject to parental guidance for children below the age of twelve. #MahavatarNarsimha censored with U/ the roar of divinity on July 25th in theatres near you 🔥🦁 #Mahavatar #FaithWillRoar @hombalefilms @VKiragandur @ChaluveG @kleemproduction @shilpaadhawan @AshwinKleem @SamCSmusic @MahavatarTales @AAFilmsIndia @samaymahajan … — Hombale Films (@hombalefilms) July 20, 2025 Taking to their social media handles, the makers shared this exciting update about Mahavatar Narsimha receiving the U/A certificate. They captioned the post with: '#MahavatarNarsimha censored with U/A. Experience the roar of divinity on July 25th in theatres near you 🔥🦁" Hombale Films and Kleem Productions have officially unveiled the lineup for this ambitious animated franchise, which will span over a decade and chronicle the ten divine avatars of Lord Vishnu: Mahavatar Narsimha (2025), Mahavatar Parshuram (2027), Mahavatar Raghunandan (2029), Mahavatar Dhawkadhesh (2031), Mahavatar Gokulananda (2033), Mahavatar Kalki Part 1 (2035), Mahavatar Kalki Part 2 (2037) Mahavatar Narsimha is directed by Ashwin Kumar and produced by Shilpaa Dhawan, Kushal Desai, and Chaitanya Desai under the banner of Kleem Productions. Presented by Hombale Films, known for their compelling content, this dynamic partnership aims to deliver a cinematic marvel across various entertainment platforms. With unmatched visual grandeur, cultural richness, cinematic excellence, and storytelling depth, the film will also be released in 3D and in five Indian languages. It is set to release on July 25, 2025. Rooted in Indian mythology, Mahavatar Narsimha tells the powerful story of Hiranyakashyap, a demon king granted near-immortality by Lord Brahma, who goes on to declare himself a god. His son, Prahlad, however, remains a devout follower of Lord Vishnu, setting the stage for a dramatic divine intervention. The trailer showcases the emergence of Narasimha, the half-lion, half-human incarnation of Vishnu, who descends to protect Prahlad and restore balance. Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Indian Express
4 days ago
- General
- Indian Express
Kamika Ekadashi 2025: Know the date, timings, vrat katha, and significance
Kamika Ekadashi 2025: Ekadashi is regarded as one of the significant days in Hinduism. On this day, devotees engage in worship and observe a fast dedicated to Lord Vishnu to receive his blessings. The word 'Kamika' implies 'fulfilling desires'; therefore, Kamika Ekadashi falls on the eleventh day (Ekadashi tithi) of the Krishna Paksha (waning phase of the moon) in the sacred Hindu month of Shravana, which corresponds to July-August, according to the Gregorian calendar. This is the first Ekadashi after Devshayani Ekadashi, and those who worship Lord Vishnu with genuine devotion on this day are blessed with peace, happiness, prosperity, and salvation. Kamika Ekadashi is being observed today, Monday, 21 July 2025. The Ekadashi Tithi commenced at 12:12 PM on the previous day and concludes today at 09:38 AM. Ekadashi Parana, which signifies breaking the fast, is performed after sunrise on the next day of the Ekadashi fast. Parana must be performed throughout Dwadashi Tithi unless Dwadashi ends before sunrise. According to Drik Panchang, the Parana Day Dwadashi ends at 07:05 AM on July 22nd, while the timings for Kamika Ekadashi are from 05:52 AM to 07:05 AM. The significance of the Kamika Ekadashi Vrat Katha is that Lord Shri Hari is supreme and is effortlessly pleased with his devotees' real devotion when they offer Tulasidala, i.e., Tulasi leaves, which Lord Vishnu values more than diamonds, pearls, gold, and silver. The Kamika Ekadashi Vrat Katha is associated with Bhishma Pitamaha and Devarshi Narada; at his request, Bhishma Pitamaha describes the meaning of Kamika Ekadashi in this narrative. To read the whole vrat katha of Kamika Ekadashi, follow the link and read it on Jansatta or Drik Panchang. On this auspicious day, devotees should get up early and bathe before sunrise, followed by cleaning their home with Gangajal. This day is ideal for seeking blessings at the Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi temples or home, and offering flowers, panchamrit, bhog (kheer, fruits, and dried fruits), while reciting Vishnu Sahasranama, Vishnu Stotra, Geeta, followed by Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi Aarti.
