Petals!

Wondering how to offer water to Surya Dev daily? In India, it is a common sight to see people offering Surya Arghya in the mornings. On my trip to Sydney last year, I was amazed to see few Indians offering Surya Arghya from the terrace of their apartment society every morning. This shows us how significant Surya Arghya is for Hindus. See below a stunning sculpture of Surya Dev at Sun Temple, Konark. [Read: Why Malayalis Light Nilavilakku and How to Light Deepam ] [Source: http://petalsfromtheheart.blogspot.in/ ] Curious to understand the scientific reason behind giving water to the Sun? In this blogpost, we will also explore the significance of Surya Arghya. [Subscribe to my weekly newsletter: https://svara.substack.com/] What Happens If We offer Water to Sun Daily? We know the scientific importance of the Sun and the benefits of basking in sunlight, which is now medically recoemmended as mandatory to overcome depression! According to the sacred texts in

What does lighting the lamp signify? And what is the concept of 'Nilavilakku'? In Kerala, most Hindu households light the traditional brass lamp in their puja rooms. This brass lamp is called as 'nilavilakku'. In most Malayali homes, it holds a sacred place. On special occasions such as Vishu and Onam, the Nilavilakku is decorated. [READ: How To Light Deepam At Home] Taking a closer look at what its cultural and spiritual signifance is, here are some frequently asked questions about lighting the nilavilakku, why this is significant and what are its benefits. Before delving into this, let me briefly share the beautiful and profound advice that the young Prahlad shares with his school mates, as mentioned in the sacred book titled 'Stories from Nrsimha Purana.' The young Prahlad cautions his friends from trying to enjoy worldly life to the extent that they have no devotion. This, according to Prahlad, will lead us to 'sink into the most abominable species of

This year, Delhi's winter season has been a challenging one. The only things that keeps me cheerful are hot chocolate and books. I have written about my reading vow in my Substack newsletter - you can subscribe now. My yearning for warm golden sunshine grows warmer by the day! Can't help sharing the beautiful poem by Wendell Berry which reads: I know that I have life only insofar as I have love. I have no love except it come from Thee. Help me please to carry this candle against the wind. Hot chocolate , books and poetry are life's true blessings. [MUST READ: Goan Memoirs, Parsi Vibes and Amazing Stories of Lord Shiva ] Need I ask for more? Oh yes, a little sunshine please:)

New Year 2024: How exciting it feels to start the New Year and experience the vibe of exploring new goals and new beginnings! We can make every day feel special and here's how! [READ: That Time Of The Year] This is a good time to find new and smart ways to excel at something that you haven't done before - it could be as simple as starting a new fitness regime or a new diet plan or creating new dishes for your loved ones, or you can make it as complex as exploring India's culinary traditions and documenting it by infusing it with your own signature touch. None of this has to be mundane or boring. Make it fun - that's where the magic begins. [Read: Goan Vibes, Parsi Memoirs] You could also give yourself some fun-filled goals to steer your confidence with social skills in the right way. You could start a small Book Club with friends and read together some amazing Indian authors. I'd highly recommend books such as 'The Last Queen' if you enjoy historical fiction

The year 2023 has been full of surprises. My birthday this year was almost spent in the hospital and it was not an easy terrain to navigate, at the time. So, yes, it has been a year of precious lessons that taught me to surrender to the Divine Mother. I am still learning to take the baby steps, falling and getting up again while the Divine Mother watches. [Read: Kalyanam Celebrations, Temple Visits and Sarpakaavu] The rollercoaster of anxiety that gripped me this year paved the way for understanding the need to transcend the trappings of my egoistic mind. The story of hidden trauma is another tale to tell, a mapping of pain and agony, only the doctors can probe and share their clinical spells. Chaitanya Mahaprabhu once asked Ramananda Raya, "What is the greatest suffering that anyone can undergo in this world?" He replied, " The suffering of a pure devotee from being separated from another pure devotee or the separation pangs of a pure devotee bereft of the Lord's

Dhauli Shanti Stupa in Odisha: A visit to Odisha's much revered Jagannath Temple this year has been one of my happiest moments in 2023. When I remember my first darshan at the iconic Puri temple, it brings such joy to my heart! [ Subscribe to my newsletter on Substack ] Why is Dhauligiri Famous? Located about 8 km from Bhubaneshwar, this place has a picturesque and scenic view. It is believed that King Ashoka's intention to end war and embrace Ahimsa took place at this spot called Dhauligiri, where the tourist spot has become a cultural and spiritual hub. A closer look at the Dhauli Shanti Stupa establishes how the influence of the Buddha has permeated this area into a devotional space that symbolises peace, harmony and mindfullness. People from all walks of life visit this scenic spot. It's got a lovely view and nice sculptures. And you can see the entire city from the top. The image shown in this blog has been from the same spot where the Shanti Stupa has been construct