బ్లాగులు — Lord Shiva

Sani Maha Pradosham is a highly revered and significant occasion in Hindu spirituality, observed to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. This auspicious event occurs when Pradosham, a special period for Lord Shiva, coincides with a Saturday (Sani), associated with Lord Sani (Saturn). Pradosham time on Saturdays is said to remove all sins and accrue great merit, bringing all kinds of prosperity.   Why is it Important?  Every month, the 13th day of the waxing and waning moon phases is known as Thirayodasi Tithi, and the period from 4:30 PM to 6 PM on these days is called Pradosham. When Thirayodasi...

The Aghori Sadhus are among the most mysterious and feared sects of Hindu ascetics. Their unique practices, beliefs, and way of life distinguish them from mainstream Hindu traditions. Ever wondered why they adorn themselves with Rudraksha beads?  Who Are the Aghoris?  Aghori Sadhus belong to a monastic order of ascetic Shaivite sadhus and are the only surviving sect derived from the Kāpālika tradition—a Tantric, non-Puranic form of Shaivism. They are devout followers of Lord Shiva in his fierce manifestation as Bhairava and seek liberation (moksha) from the endless cycle of birth, death, and rebirth by practicing unconventional rituals and traditions....

Hindu mythology is vast and filled with divine tales of gods, goddesses, and their celestial offspring.   When we think of the divine family of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, we often remember their sons Lord Ganesha and Lord Murugan (Kartikeya). However, very few are aware of their lesser-known daughter, Ashoka Sundari. Unlike her famous siblings, Ashoka Sundari’s story remains hidden in the pages of ancient texts, often overlooked in mainstream mythology.  What’s her birth story?  The story of Ashoka Sundari's birth is mentioned in the Padma Purana. According to mythology, Goddess Parvati, while spending time on Mount Kailash, felt lonely...

Maha Shivaratri, the "Great Night of Shiva," is one of the most significant festivals celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm throughout India, Nepal and by Hindus worldwide. Celebrated annually with immense devotion, it honours Lord Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. Maha Shivaratri marks the marriage day of Lord Shiva. It occurs on the 14th night of the new moon during the Hindu month of Phalguna, which aligns with the Tamil month of Maasi. This sacred night is marked by prayers, fasting, and rituals that hold deep spiritual significance for devotees worldwide. Date and time of Maha Shivaratri...

Lord Shiva, one of the most revered deities in Hinduism, is known as the embodiment of compassion, power, and divine grace. His followers come from diverse backgrounds, showcasing the universality of his appeal.  Kannappa Nayanar: The Ultimate sacrifice  Kannappa Nayanar, one of the 63 revered Saivite saints in Tamil Hinduism, was born as Thinnan in Uduppoor (modern-day Uttukottai near Kalahasti, Andhra Pradesh). The son of Nagan, a hunter clan leader, Thinnan was a skilled hunter known for his courage, simplicity, and loving heart. Though uneducated in rituals, he was a devoted worshipper of Lord Shiva. Thinnan's devotion was pure but...