(9.1.4) Article 370 / Dhara 370 (Constitution of India)

What is Article 370 / Dhaaraa 370 kya hai

Article 370 grants special autonomous status to Jammu and Kashmir. The laws under this article alone govern the state, except for those which are related to defence, foreign affairs and communications. The article 370 cannot be repealed without the approval of Jammu and Kashmir Assembly. 

How and when can Article 370 cease to be operative    

370 (3) Notwithstanding anything in the foregoing provisions of this article, the President may, by public notification, declare that this article shall cease to be operative or shall be operative only with such exceptions and modifications and from such date as he may specify:

Provided that the recommendation  of the Constituent Assembly of the state referred to in clause (2) shall be necessary before the President issues such a notification.

(8.2.27) Surya Gayatri Mantra (For Health, Wealth, Wisdom Etc.)

Surya Gayatri Mantra  - Swasthya ,Dhan aur Buddhi ke Liye

Benefits or uses of Surya Gayatri Mantra

Surya Gayatri Mantra is  a specific Mantra of Surya Dev. Before starting the Mantra Jap read the  Practical Hints for Mantra Jap for better, early and positive results.The benefits or uses and the Mantra are given below - 

Benefits or Uses of Surya Gayatri Mantra :-

> The person who chants this Surya Gayatri Mantra daily with faith, devotion, pure heart and concentration for at least 324 times,or 540 times or 756 times or 1080 times, gets success in every field of life like - in service, in study, in career, in business and in marital life etc.

> The chanting of this Surya Gayatri Mantra makes the devotee healthy (physically and mentally), wealthy and wise.
> Surya Gayatri Mantra removes the sadness and fills the person with happy thoughts.

The Surya Gayatri Mantra is as follows -
"Om Aadityaay Vidmahe Prabhaakaraaya Dheemahi Tanna: Surya: Prachodayaat:"

"ॐ आदित्याय विद्महे प्रभाकराय धीमहि तन्न: सूर्य: प्रचोदयात:।"

Other Posts you will like to read -
(8.2.22) Surya Mantra (for self confidence,educational success, health and materialistic success) 
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(8.2.23) Procedure of giving Arghya to Surya Dev
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(7.2.4) Practical Hints for Mantra Jap
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(9.1.3) List of the Prime Ministers of India

Here under is the list of the Prime Ministers of India up to now 

(1) Shree Jawahar Lal Nehru (From 15 August, 1947 to 27 May, 1964)
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(2) Shree Lal Bahadur Shatri (From 09 June, 1964 to 11 January,1966)

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(3) Shrimati Indira Gandhi (From 24 January, 1966 to 24 March, 1977 and from 14 January, 1980 to 31 October, 1984)

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(4) Shree Morar ji Desai (From 24 March, 1977 to 28 July, 1979)

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(5) Shree Charan Singh (From 28 July, 1979 to 14 Ian. , 1980)
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(6) Shree Rajiv Gandhi (From 31 October1984 to 02 Dec., 1989)
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(8) Shree Vishva Nath Pratap singh (From 02 December, 1989 to 10 Nov., 1990)
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(8) Shree Chandra Shekhar (From  10 Nov., 1990 to 21 June , 1991)
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(9) Shree P. V. Narsinha Rao (From 21 June, 1991 to 16 May, 1996)
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(10) Shree Atal Bihari Vajpeyi (From 16 May, 1996 to 01 June, 1996 and 19 March, 1998 to 22 May, 2004)
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(11) Shree H. D.Devegauda (From 01 June, 1996 to 01 April, 1997)
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(12) Shree Indra Kumar Gujral (From 21 April, 1997 to 19 March, 1998)

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(13) Shree Man Mohan Singh (22 May, 2004 to 26May, 2014)

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(14) Shree Narendra Damodar Das Modi (From 26 May, 2014 to ------)

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(Shree Guljari Lal Nanda worked as an acting Prime Minister twice, once after the death of Shree Nehru and then after the death of Shree Shastri )

(8.3.7) Surya Namskar (Sun salutation)

How to do Surya Namaskar 

What is Surya Namskar -

Surya Namskar is a process of saluting Surya Dev or sun god. It is an exercise as well as a prayer to god Surya who is also known as the god of light, life and health. Twelve Mantras are chanted in this process of Surya Namskar. These mantras can be chanted verbally or in mind. Every mantra has a simple meaning that is ' salutation to god sun '.

Time and place of performing Surya Namskar -

Morning is the best for performing Surya Naskar. Open and airy place is to be considered the most suitable place for it. Surya Namskar should be done with an empty stomach.

Process of Surya Namskar ( How to do Surya Namskar ) - 

First of all the person should have his/her face towards the sun and then he/she should meditate on the feeling that his/her hands are touching the feet of the sun god and the sun god is blessing him/her.

After it he/she should do Dandvat Pranaam ( Prostrution ). Then he should stand up and chant the second mantra and do the Dandvat Pranaam. Similarly repeat this process twelve times with the twelve mantras one by one. The twelve mantras are given below -

1. Om Mitraay  Namah ( ॐ मित्राय नमः )

2. Om Ravaye Namah ( ॐ रवये नमः )

3. Om Sooryaay Namah ( ॐ सूर्याय नमः )

4. Om Bhaanave Namah ( ॐ भानवे नमः )

5. Om Khagaay Namah ( ॐ खगाय नमः )

6. Om Pooshne Namah ( ॐ पूष्णे  नमः )

7. Om Hiranya garbhaay Namah ( ॐ हिरण्य गर्भाय नमः )

8. Om Mareechaye Namah ( ॐ मरीचये नमः )

9. Om Aaadityaay Namah ( ॐ आदित्याय नमः )

10. Om Savitre Namah ( ॐ सवित्रे नमः )

11. Om Arkaary Namah ( ॐ अर्काय नमः )

12. Om Bhaaskaraay Namah ( ॐ भास्कराय नमः )

Benefits of Surya Namskar -- ( Why is Surya Namskar performed )

Surya Namskar

- gives the exercise to legs and arms.

- improves the digestive system.

- regulates blood circulation.

- helps the practicener stay slim.

- makes the body flexible.

- increases the endurance power.

- removes the negative emotions like restlessness and anxiety etc.

Precautions -

1. The person who is suffering from backache or hernia or high blood pressure or such other diseases, must consult the doctor before starting Surya Namskar.

2. The pregnant women should also seek the doctor's advice.

Other Posts you will like to  read - 

(8.2.22) Surya Mantra for self confidence, Health and success 
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(8.2.23) How to give Arghya to Surya
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(5.3.23) Muhurat for Mundan Sanskar / Chura karan 2017 - 2018

 Mundan Sanskaar  ke liye Muhurat in 2017 - 2018

What is Mundan Sanskar ?

Mundan Sanskar is one of the sixteen Sanskars in the Hinduism. The other names for this Sanskar are- Jadula, Chura karm or Chaul karm Sanskar. Mundan Sanskar is the first time head shaving of the child. The following things or factors are considered for the Muhurat for Mundan Sanskar-

The age for Mundan Sanskar -

This Sanskar is observed before  the child attains the age of one year. This Sanskaar can also take place in the age of three, five or seven years of the child. 

Months - Chaitra ( but the sun must not be in the Meen sign),Vaisakh,Jeshtha ( if the child is first and was born in the month of Jeshtha, his Mundan Sanskar should not be performed in the month of Jeshtha), Aashadh (before Dev shayani ekadashi) ,Magh and Phalguna.

Tithi - Dwitiya, Tritiya, Panchami,Saptmi,Dashami, Ekadashi, Trayodashi.

Vaar - Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday.

Nakshatra - Ashivini, Mrigshira,Punarvasu, Pushya,Hast, Chitra, Swati, Jeshtha, Shravan, Dhanishtha, Shatbhisha.
Chandra Shuddhi / Chandra Bal - (To know more about Chandra shuddhi/ chandra bal, click here)
The moon should not be in the fourth or eighth or twelfth Rashi (sign) from the birth sign or name sign (as the case may be) of the child for whom this Sanskar is performed.

Muhurat for Mundan in the year 2017 - 
< 03.02.2017 Friday
Time 12:19 to 13:03 Abhijit
Chandra Rashi or Moon sign is Mesh.
< 15.02.2017 Wednesday
Time 08:30 to 09:57 or 11:18 to 12:19
Chandra Rashi or Moon sign is Kanya.
< 20.02.2017 Monday
Time 16:53 to Sunset
Chandra Rashi or Moon sign is Vrishchik.
> 08.05.2017 Monday
Time - 09.:44 to 10:20 or 11:56 to 12:49
Chandra Rashi or Moon sign is Kanya.
> 22.05.2017 Monday
Time -  11:57 to 12:50
Chandra Rashi or Moon sign is Meen.
> 05.06.2017 Monday
Time - 11:57 to 12:52
Chandra Rashi or Moon sign is Tula.
> 09.06.2017 Friday
Time - 11:58 to 12:53
Chandra Rashi or Moon sign is Vrishchik.

> 19.06.2017 Monday
Time - 12:00 to 12:50
Chandra Rashi or Moon sign is Meen.
> 03.07.2017 Monday
Time - 12:03 to 12:58
Chandra Rashi or Moon sign is Tula.
Muhurat for Mundan Sanskar in the year 2018
> 07.02.2018 Wednesday
Time - from sunrise to 08:55
Chandra Rashi or Moon sign is Tula.

Other Posts you will like to read - 

(6.2.13) Chandra shuddhi / Chandra bal 
(An essential factor for every muhurat)
((6.2.15) How to know your Rashi
(A simple way of knowing one's name sign)
(5.2) Muhurat for the current year
(A list of different Muhurats )

(4.5.2) Characters of Mahabharat

What are the names of characters of the epic Mahabharat  / Who are the characters of Mahabharat?

There are many characters in the Mahabharat. Some of them have played a major role and some others have played a minor role.Here under is the list of some of the characters of Mahabharat -
* Abhimanyu
Abhimanyu was the brave son of Arjun and Subhadra, the sister of Krishna. He fought bravely against the Kaurawaswho ultimately killed him
* Amba 
* Ambika
* Arjun
*Banram
* Bhishma 
* Bheem
* Dev Vrat 
* Dhritarashtra 
* Dronacharya 
* Drupad 
* Draupadi 
* Duryodhan 
* Dushasan 
* Gandhari 
* Jaydrath 
* Jarasandh 
* Karn 
* Kripacharya 
* Kunti  
* Krishna 
* Madri 
* Nakul 
* Sahdev 
* Sanjay
* Sakuni 
* Uttara 
* Uttaraa 
* Virat 
* Ved Vyas 
* Vidur
Other Posts you will like to read - 
(4.5) Mahabharat an introduction 
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(4.5.1) Main events of Mahabharat
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7-1-1 Abraham Lincoln's Letter to His Son's Teacher
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7-1-2 On the Conduct of Life (Hazlitt's Letter toHis Son)
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(7.1.3) My Opinion about My Father
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(7.1.2) Risk
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(7.1.5) Qualities of a Happy Life
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7.1.6 Yaksh Prashna ( A Story From Mahabharat )
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(7.1.7) Seven Spiritual Questions and their Answers
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(7.1.8) Qualities of a noble friend 

(4.5.1) Main Events of Mahabharat

The great battle fought on the plains of Kurukshetra had been the witness of many memorable events of mythological history. Here under is given a brief narration of some important incidents -

Ganesh and Mahabharat

The great sage Ved Vyas prayed to Lord Ganesh and requested him to write the Mahabharat as he dictated. Lord Ganesh agreed to write it but He put a condition before him. He said that He would write it without stopping. The sage was in a fix. He thought for a while and then said to Lord Ganesh,"I  agree to it that I'll not stop dictating till the epic is completed on the condition that you will have to understand every verse before you write it down." Lord Ganesh agreed to it. Thus the epic was written.    

King Shantanu and Ganga

In the Dwapur Yug Shantanu, a great king ruled over Bharatvarsh. He married Ganga. Before their marriage Ganga put a condition before Shantanu, " I can marry you on the condition that after our marriage I will have the freedom to do whatever I like . If you object my actions at any time and under any circumstances, I will part with you." Shantanu agreed to it and they married.

In the due time they had a son. But Ganga took the child and threw him into the Ganga. She continued doing so till she had the seventh child. Till then Shantanu had lost his patience so the next time he asked her not to do so. At this Ganga said,"As you have broken the agreement,I shall part with you." Saying so she disappeared.

Draupadi got a Divine Vessel from Sun-god

Defeated in the game of dice, Yudhishthira along with his brothers and Draupadi went to live in the forest. While they were living in the forest, a number of good and holy persons came to meet them. Draupadi gave food to the persons who came to them in the forest everyday. Draupadi prayed to the Sun-god to help her feed her guests. Pleased with her prayer, the Sun-god gave her a divine vessel known as Akshayapaatra which would supply to her as much food as she needed everyday to feed the guests,the Pandavas and herself.

Arjun Got Divine Weapons

Arjun went to the Himalayas and did penance to obtain the grace of Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva was pleased with him and asked him to ask for a boon. 

At this Arjun said," Lord, grant me a new weapon to win our just cause."Lord Shva handed over the weapon and said,"I bestow on you, Arjun, the divine Pasupata weapon. Use  it only for a just cause, otherwise it will lose its divine power."

The year of disguise  
The Pandavas were sent by their cousins, the Kauravas, into the exile. They were to pass twelve years in the forest and the thirteenth year in the disguise. If found out, they were to go to the forest for another period of twelve years. When the twelve years of exile were over, the Pandavas spent the thirteenth year in Viratnagar, the capital of Virat, the king of the Matsyas. They disguised themselves so that no one should recognize them.
The sacred sermons by Lord Krishna

This is the most prominent part of the great battle.When Arjun was dejected and demoralized, Lord Krishna tried to rise him to action by delivering His great sermon which is known as Srimad Bhagwatgita. Whatever doubts Arjun had, Lord Krishna removed them. Krishna's main emphasis was on Action. He said, "Let the Act's motive be in the Act itself. Fight for justice, fight for truth, fight to kill evil for the sake of humanity."

After a long discourse lord Krishna revealed Himself in His Vishvaroop to Arjun. He asked Arjun to fix his heart and mind in Him. Think of Him and have faith in Him. Lord Krishna further said that He was present in all the creatures . There was none dear to Him and none hateful. Then only Arjun's conscience became clear and he was ready to fight without doubt, question and fear.

Other Posts you will like to read - 

7-1-1 Abraham Lincoln's Letter to His Son's Teacher

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7-1-2 On the Conduct of Life (Hazlitt's Letter toHis Son)

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(7.1.3) My Opinion about My Father 

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(7.1.2) Risk 

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(7.1.5) Qualities of a Happy Life 

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7.1.6 Yaksh Prashna ( A Story From Mahabharat )

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(7.1.7) Seven Spiritual Questions and their Answers

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(7.1.8) Qualities of a noble friend 

(10.5.2) Pradosh Vrat Dates/ When is Padosh Vrat 2017 -2018

When is Pradosh Vrat in 2017-2018 (Pradosh Vrat Dates)

Here under are given the dates for observing the Pradosh Vrat

 Pradosh Vrat dates in 2017
* Tuesday, 10 January, 2017 - Paush Shukla.
* Wednesday, 25 January, 2017 -  Magh Krishna
* Wednesday, 08 February, 2017 - Magh Shukla.
* Friday, 24 Februray, 2017 -  Phalgun Krishna.
* Friday, 10 March, 2017 - Phalgun Shukla.
* Saturday, 25 March, 2017 - Chaitra Krishna.
* Saturday, 08 April, 2017 - Chaitra Shukla.
* Monday, 24.04 2017 - Vaishakh Krishna.
* Monday, 08.05 2017 - Vaishakh Shukla.
* Tuesday, 23.05. 2017 - Jyeshtha Krishna.
* Tuesday, 06.06 2017 - Jyeshtha Shukla.
* Wednesday, 21.06. 2017 - Ashadh Krishna.
* Thursday, 06.07. 2017 - Ashadh Shukla.
* Friday, 21.07 2017 - Sharavan Krishna.
* Saturday, 05.08. 2017 - Sharavan Shukla.
* Saturday, 19.08 2017 - Bhadrapad Krishna.
* Sunday, 03.09. 2017 - Bhadrapad Shukla.
* Sunday, 17.09. 2017 - Ashvin Krishna.
* Tuesday, 03.10. 2017 - Ashvin Shukla.
* Tuesday, 17.10. 2017 - Kartik Krishna.
* Wednesday, 01.11. 2017 - Kartik Shukla.
* Wednesday, 15.11. 2017 - Margshirsh Krishna.
* Friday, 01.12. 2017 - Margshirsh Shukla
* Friday, 15.12. 2017 - Paush Krishna.
> Saturday, 30.12.2017 - Paush Shukla
Pradosh Vrat dates in 2018
> Sunday, 14.01.2018 - Magh Krishna
> Monday, 29.01.2018 - Magh Shukla
> Tuesday, 13.02.2018 - Phalgun Krishna
> Tuesday, 27.02.2018 - Phalgun Shukla
> Wednesday, 14.03.2018 - Chaitra Krishna
Other Posts you will like to read - 
(10.3.47) Som Pradosh 
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(10.3.48) Shani Pradosh 
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(10.3.7) Pradosh Vrat 
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(10.3.6) Maha Shivratri 
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(10.3.8) Shraavan Maas
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(10.3.80) Bhaum Pradosh

(4.5) Mahabharat - A great Epic

Mahabharat

The Mahabharat is a great cpic. It was originally written in Sanskrit by the great sage Ved Vyas. It is considered as the longest epic of the world. It has one lakh Shlokas (couplets) in eighteen Parvas ( sections or chapters.)

It is an extraordinary story of a battle which was between Pandavas and Kauravas. On the appointed day, with the sunrise the armies of the Pandavas and the Kauravas assembled on the vast plains of Kurukshetra. Thousands of warriors from all the corners of Bharatvarsh were ready to cover the battle field with the dead and fill the rivers with blood.The battle which was fought at Kurukshetra  lasted for eighteen days and ended with the wiping out of the Kauravas, but the Pandavas also suffered a great loss. It brought joy to no one. However, it was a battle between the good and the evil and the good ultimately overpowered the evil. Thus, the great battle established the victory of Good over Evil. 

After the end of the battle Yudhishthir ruled for some years and then he abandoned the throne in favour of Parikshit. Parikshit, the son of Abhimanyu and the grand son of Arjun, was appointed as the king. Yuyutsu was appointed the guardian and Kripa as Guru. The five Pandava brothers with Draupadi left Hastinapur for the great Himalayas at the end of the story.

It is said that what has been said in the Mahabharat, that might also have been said somewhere else but what is not found in the Mahabharat, is not found anywhere else.
Other Posts you will like to read - 
(4.5.1) The main events of Mahabharat
(4.5.2) Characters of Mahabharat

(11.3.8) Tinke Kaa Sahara (Akbar- Birbal Stories)

Birbal and a piece of straw (Akbar -Birbal Story)

One day the emperor Akbar, with his Security guards and courtiers, was boating in the river. When the boat reached in the middle of the river, Akbar thought of a joke. Showing a straw, he said,"Whoever of you will cross the river with the help of this straw, I will make him the Badshah of Delhi for one day." The courtiers looked at each other's faces. Then Birbal said," I can do this, but after becoming emperor."
Emperor Akbar said,"Well, for today, I declare you the emperor. The regime, the palace and the bodyguards etc. are yours for today. Assume this piece of straw as a royal scepter. Now cross the river with the help of the straw." Saying so Akbar gave the straw to Birbal.  Birbal took the straw in his hand but before jumping, he said to the security guards,"At this moment I am the emperor. You have to fulfill your duty to the emperor."
When Birbal began to jump into the river, the security guards stopped him from doing so and said,"You are our emperor. It is our duty to save you." 
Birbal asked them not to stop him from jumping into the river but they did not act upon his advice. Meanwhile, the boat reached the bank of the river.
Then the king said," Birbal, You're lost." 
"No,I have not lost, your majesty," Birbal said," I have crossed the river only with the help of the piece of straw. If the piece of straw were not with me, why would the bodyguards stop me from jumping into the river. And I would have certainly drowned in the river."
Akbar praised Birbal's cleverness and said,'You have really won, Birbal."
<< Go back to the list of Akbar- Birbal Stories.

(11.3.7) Jhuth Aur Sach Ka Antar (Akbar-Birbal stories)

The Difference Between a Lie and Truth (Akbar - Birbal Stories)

One day the Emperor, Akbar asked Birbal,"Can you tell me, what is the difference between the lie and the truth?"
Birbal replied,"Sir, the difference, that is between the ear and the eye, the same is the difference between the lie and truth."
"How's that?" Akbar wanted to know.
Birbal replied,"Sir, what the eyes see is true and and the things what the ears hear, is false."
Akbar liked the answer. Akbar praised the Birbal's reply.
<< Go back to the list of Akbar and Birbal stories

(11.3.6) Hatheli Par Baal Kyon Nahin (Akbar-Birbal Stories)

Why is there no Hair on the Palm (Akbar - Birbal Stories)

One day Emperor Akbar thought of a joke and said to Birbal,"Why is there no hair on my palm?" 
Birbal answered,"Sir, you always give some thing or the other in charity (donate some thing or the other ) to the poor and the needy with your hands, that's why, hair does not last (remain or stay) on your palm." 
Then Akbar asked another question,"Okay, but why is there no hair on your palm ( but why do your palms have no hair)?" 
Birbal replied," Sir, these hands of mine get charity throughout the year  from you, so there is no hair on my palm." 
"Well, we assume it so, but why do all the courtiers have no hair on their palms?" Akbar asked. 
Birbal replied,"Sir, it is simple to understand - You give me charity and I take it but these poor courtiers get nothing, they only rub their hands. So there is no hair on their palms." 
Hearing the wise and clever answer, Akbar was very much pleased with Birbal and praised him for his wit.
<< Go back to the list of the stories of Akbar- Birbal

(11.3.5) Kounsi Ritu Achhi Hoti Hai (Akbar-Birbal stories)

Which season is the best ?

Emperor Akbar asked  his courtiers,"It is very cold in  winter, it is very hot in summer  and in rainy season there is water and water all around. Then which of the seasons should be called the best  one?". 

According their liking  some of courtiers called the winter the best, some others called the summer the best and some others called the rainy season the best.
At last Birbal said," Sir, in my opinion the best season for someone is that, in which he/she gets enough food to eat".
"What does that mean?" asked the emperor.
Birbal said,"It means that if the person gets a hearty meal, every season is good for her/him but if the person is hungry ( does not have enough food to eat), no season is good for him/her." 
Akbar was  satisfied with the answer and praised Birbal for his wit.

<< Go back to the list of the stories of Akbar and Birbal.

Related Posts - 

7-1-1 Abraham Lincoln's Letter to His Son's Teacher

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7-1-2 On the Conduct of Life (Hazlitt's Letter toHis Son)

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(7.1.3) My Opinion about My Father 

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(7.1.2) Risk 

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(7.1.5) Qualities of a Happy Life 

-------

7.1.6 Yaksh Prashna ( A Story From Mahabharat )

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(7.1.7) Seven Spiritual Questions and their Answers

----------

(7.1.8) Qualities of a noble friend 

(11.3.4) Badshahi Mahabharat (Akbar-Birbal Stories)

Imperial Mahabharat (Akbar - Birbal stories)

Akbar once wished that like the Mahabharata, 'Badshahi Mahabharata' should also be written, so that the forthcoming generations may know about him and his achievements.

So Akbar revealed his wish to Birbal and handed over him the task of writing the Badshahi Mahabharat. Birbal asked for (demanded) some money and  a period of six months for completing the task. Akbar accepted Birbal's request. Birbal took money from the royal treasury and spent it on the religious activities and donations. Five months later, Birbal went to Akbar with a bundle of blank papers and said,"Sir, Badshahi Mahabharat is almost ready(completed), but there is also a female character in it. So I will have  to ask some things to Begum Sahiba."
After getting the emperor's permission, Birbal went to the Begum Sahiba and said,"Badshah has asked me to write the Badshahi Mahabharat. It is almost ready. I have brought it with me, but there are some things which I can write with your permission only."
"The Begum asked,"What do you want to know ?"
Birbal said,"As you know, Droupadi was the heroine of  the Mahabharata and she had five husbands. You are the heroine of this Badshahi Mahabharat, so tell me who are the other four husbands of yours besides the Badshah Akbar?"  "And the second thing is that in the Mahabharata, Dusshashan, in full court, ripped the sari of Draupadi and the Pandavas (her five husbands) had to bear the humiliation. In same way, tell me the name of  the person who had done such type of wrong thing to you."
Hearing it, Begum Sahiba lost her temper. She took the bundle of papers form the hands of Birbal and ordered the maidens to burn it. The maidens followed the order of Begum Sabhiba.
Birbal went to Akbar empty handed and told him the whole incident. Akbar felt ashamed and gave up the intention of getting the Badashahi Mahabharat written.

<< Go back to the list of the stories of Akbar- Birbal

(11.3.3) Aapaki Baari Kaise Aati (Akbar-Birbal Stories)

How would your turn  come (Akbar - Birbal stories)

One day Akbar said to Birbal,"How nice it would have been  if the one and the same person had remained the badashah all the time (= if once the Badashah had always been the Badashah)?"
 Birbal replied politely,"Your Majesty, this idea of yours seems very fine, but just think if it had always been like that , how would your turn of becoming the emperor come ?" Akber kept quiet after listening to the justified reply

<< Go back to the list of the stories of Akbar- Birbal 

ooooooo

(11.3.2) Unt kee Gardan Tedhi Kyon

Why is the Camel's Neck crooked ?

Once the emperor Akbar was pleased with Birbal and promised to give him an Estate (Jagir). But even after several days Akbar did not give him the Estate. Birbal reminded Akbar of it once or twice. But Akbar did not pay any attention to what he (Birbal) said and started some other topic.

One day Akbar and Birbal were going somewhere. At that time they saw a camel there. Seeing the camel, Akber asked,"Birbal, why is the camel's neck crooked?" 

Birbal wanted to take advantage of the opportunity, so  he said," Sir, excuse me. This camel might have promised to give a Jagir to someone in his previous  life but  he might have forgotten to honour his promise. Perhaps, this is the reason of the camel's crooked neck." 

Akbar understood the intention of Birbal and fulfilled his promise by giving the Jagir to Birbal.
<< Go back to the list of the Stories of Akbar and Birbal

(11.3.1) Akbar Ke Panch Prashna (Akbar -Birbal stories)

Akbar's Five Questions

As usual one day the emperor Akbar was  in the Court. All the courtiers were present except Birbal. Meanwhile the king addressed the courtiers and asked them five questions -

1. Which flower is the best?
2. Whose milk is the best?
3. Whose sweetness is good?
4. Whose leaf is the best?
5. Who is the best king?
All the courtiers had different opinion about the answers to the first four questions. Someone was calling  one thing better, the other one was calling some other thing better. Everyone had his own logic. About the answer to the fifth question, all the courtiers had the same opinion that Akbar is the best king. But Akbar was not satisfied with any of the answers.
After some time, Birbal came to the court, greeted the emperor and took his place. Akbar repeated all the five questions and asked Birbal to  answer them. Birbal's answer were as  follows :-
1.The cotton flower is the best of all the flowers because cloth is made of it. All the persons, the rich and  the poor use the cloth to cover their bodies.
2. Mother's milk is the best. It is fully nutrient to the child.
3. Sweetness of the speech is the best because it is the sweet speech  that makes the person popular.
4.The betel leaf is the best of all the leaves. By offering it even an enemy can be made a friend.
5. Indra is the best king who sustains the whole universe by raining.
Akbar was pleased  to know the best answer to his questions.
<< Go back to the list of the stories of Akbar and Birbal

(11.3) Stories of Akbar and Birbal

Birbal is a famous person in the history of India. He was a courtier in court of Mughal emperor Akbar. Because of Birbal's wisdom and wit Akbar treated him as his friend and took his advice in some serious matters. Birbal had the quality to solve even the serious problems. He was popular for his intelligence and sense of humour.The stories of Akbar and Birbal are very famous among the people of all age groups. These stories are full of wit and humour and always convey the message of some kind or the other.
Here under is given the list of the interesting stories of Akbar and Birbal -
(List of the stories of Akbar and Birbal )
Other Related Posts -
(11.3) Stories of Akbar and Birbal 
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(11.3.1) Akbar Ke Panch Prashna
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(11.3.2) Unt Kee Gardan Tedhi  Kyon ?
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(11.3.3) Aapaki Baari Kaise Aati?
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(11.3.4) Badshahi Mahabharat
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(11.3.5) Kounasi Ritu Achhi Hoti Hai
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(11.3.6) Hatheli Par Baal Kyon Nahin Hain
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(11.3.7) Jhooth Aur Sach Ka Antar
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(11.3.8) Tinke Ka Sahara

(10.3.48) Shani Pradosh in 2017 - 2018

Shani Pradosh 2017 -2018

What is Shani Pradosh / Which Pradsh is known as Shani Pradosh ?
According to the Hindu (Panchang) calendar, there are two Tryodashi Tithis in a lunar month, one is in the Shukla Paksh and the other is in the Krishna Paksh. Pradosh Vrat is observed on each Trayodashi Tithi. The Trayodashi Tithi which falls on Saturday is known as Shani Pradosh.
When is Shani Pradosh in 2017 -2018
When is Shani Pradosh in 2017 -
25.03.2017
08.04.2017
05.08.2017
19.08.2017
30.12.2017
Importance of Shani Pradosh _
(1) Shani Pradosh is an auspicious day which is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
(2) Observing the fast on Shani Pradosh blesses the Vrati with health, wealth, happiness and honour.
(3) Shani Pradosh Vrat destroys the Vrati's negative feelings and negative Karmas.
(4) The person's desire of getting a good son is fulfilled  if he observes the Vrat on  Shani Pradosh.
The process or Vidhi of Shani Pradosh Vrat - (for detail click here 10.3.7)
The person who observes Shani Pradosh Vrat should have a bath once more in the evening. Then he should sit facing east or north. He should have an idol or a framed picture of Lord Shiva in front of him.The idol or the picture should be duly worshiped i.e. Panchapochar or Shodashopachar Puja should be performed. After performing Puja he should break his fast by having his meal in the evening.
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"May Shani Pradosh fulfil your desires !"
"May Lord Shiva bless you with health, wealth, happiness and honour!"
*****
Other Posts you will like to read - 

(10.3.40) Shani Jayanti 
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(6.2.7) Sadhesati of Shani 
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((6.2.8) Dhaiya of Shani
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(10.3.6) Mahashivratri Vrat
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(10.3.7) Pradosh Vrat
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(10.3.47) Som Pradosh
==========
(10.3.8) Shraavan Maas

(10.3.47) Som Pradosh ln 2017 - 2018

What is Som Pradosh 
According to the Hindu (Panchang) calendar, there are two Tryodashi Tithis in a lunar month, one is in the Shukla Paksh and the other is in the Krishna Paksh. Pradosh Vrat is observed on each Trayodashi Tithi. The Trayodashi Tithi which falls on Monday is known as Som Pradosh.
When is Som Pradosh in 2017 
The Som Pradosh is on - 
14.04.2017
08.05.2017
When is Som Pradosh in 2018
29.01.2018
Importance of Som Pradosh _
(1) Som Pradosh is an auspicious day which is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
(2) Observing the fast on Som Pradosh blesses the Vrati with health, wealth, happiness and honour.
(3) Som Pradosh Vrat destroys the Vrati's negative feelings and negative Karmas.
(4) The person's desires are fulfilled if he observes the Vrat on  Som Pradosh.
The process or Vidhi of Som Pradosh Vrat - (for detail click here 10.3.7)
The person who observes Som Pradosh Vrat should have a bath once more in the evening. Then he should sit facing east or north. He should have an idol or a framed picture of Lord Shiva in front of him.The idol or the picture should be duly worshiped i.e. Panchapochar or Shodashopachar Puja should be performed. After performing Puja he should break his fast by having his meal in the evening.
******
"May Som Pradosh fulfil your desires !"
"May Lord Shiva bless you with health, wealth, happiness and honour!"
*****
Other Posts you will like to read - 
(10.3.6) Mahashivratri Vrat
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(10.3.7) Pradosh Vrat
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(10.4.47) Som Pradosh 
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(10.3.48) Shani Pradosh 
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(10.3.7) Pradosh Vrat 
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(10.3.6) Maha Shivratri 
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(10.3.8) Shraavan Maas

(10.3.46) Kamika Ekadashi 2017

Kamika Ekadashi Vrat 2017/ Kamika Ekadashi Vrat date in 2017

When is Kamika Ekadashi in 2017 ?
Shravan Krishna Ekadashi is known as Kamika Ekadashi.

(CLICK HERE for the date of falling  Kamika Ekadashi and other Ekadashis )

Kamika Ekadashi Vrat Vidhi - (For detail click here 10.3.33)

(1) The person who wants to observe Kamika  Ekadashi fast should get up early in the morning on Dashami Tithi, a day before Ekadashi.He should take a bath and perform his daily routine. He should have a single meal on Dashami Tithi.

(2) On Ekadashi , no meal is taken. (But if health does not permit, one should take some fruits and milk.) In the night the Vrati should hear the religious discourses or read religious books.

(3) On Dwadashi Tithi, the Vrati should break the Vrat after feeding the Brahmins and giving them some Dan.

Importance of Kamika Dashi -

(1) As other Ekadashis, Kamika Ekadashi is a very auspicious and sacred Tithi.

(2) Observing fast on Kamika Ekadashi, washes away the sins of the Vrati.

(3) The person who observes fast on Kamika Ekadashi, never faces the anger of Yamraj, the god of death.

(4) On Kamika Ekadashi observing fast, worshiping Lord Krishna, offering Tulsi leaves to Krishna, lighting Ghee Deepak, and giving donations, proves very fruitful.  

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'astromuhurat.com' wishes you and your family a very happy Kamika Ekadashi.

May this Kamika Ekadashi fulfill your wishes and bring you joy, peace and prosperity.

*******

Other Posts you will like to read - 

(10.3.31) 26 Ekadashi and their names
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(10.3.33) Importance of Ekadashi and Vrat Vidhi
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(10.5.16) Ekadashi Vrat dates
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(10.3.45) Swarn Gouri Vrat2017 / Madhushrava Teeji 2017

Madhushrava Teej 2017/ Swarn Gauri Vrat 2017/ मधुश्रवा तीज / स्वर्ण गौरी व्रत 2017

When is Swarn Gauri / Gouri / Gouwari / Gawari Vrat / Madhushrava Teej in 2017
Swarn Gouri Vrat is observed on Shravan Shukla Tritiya. It is also known as Madhushrava Teej or Jhoola Teej or Hariyali Teej
In the year 2017 Swarn Gouri Vrat is on Wednesday, 26.07.2017.
Important things about Swarn Gouri Vrat -
(1) Swarn Gauri Vrat is dedicated to goddess Gauri which is the another name for goddess Parvati.
(2) According to the north Indian Hindu Panchang this Vrat is observed on Shravan Shukla Tritiya.
(3) This Vrat is observed by unmarried girls as well as married women.
(4) It is believed that the unmarried girl who observes this Vrat, gets a good husband and the married woman who observes this Vrat leads a peaceful and happy married life.
The process or Vidhi of Swarn Gouri Vrat -
The woman who observes this Vrat should get up early in the morning and have a bath. An idol of goddess Gauri of clay is made. A sixteen knotted thread is prepared and it is placed near the idol of the goddess Gouri. The idol is properly worshiped adopting  Shodashopachaar or sixteen Upchars. Then knoted thread is tied on the wrist. A single meal is taken. This Vrat is observed for sixteen years. After sixteen years Udhyapan ceremony is performed.
Other Posts you will like to read - 
(13.1.7) Shodashopachar Pooja
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(10.3.4) Mangala Gauri Vrat  
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(10.5.1) List of Hindu festivals and Vrat

(10.1.24) Bhadali Navami 2017/ Bhaddali Navami 2017

Bhadali Navami 2017

When is Bhaddali Navami 

In the year 2016 Bhadali Navami is on Sunday, 02 July, 2017.
Important Things about Bhadli Navami - 
(1) Aashadh Shukla Navami is known as Bhadli Navami or Bhaddli Navami.
(2) Bhadli Navami is the Tithi which is considered as an Aboojh Muhurat for Marriage  in some parts of north India.
(3) When proper Muhurat for marriage is not available, marriage is preformed on this day in the proper Lgna. Thus this Tithi is known as the Popular Muhurat  for Marriage. This is the last Muhurat for marriage before Dev Shayan.
(4) Bhadali Navami is considered as an auspicious Tithi and it has special significance because this is the last day of Aashadh Gupt navaratra.
Other Posts you will like to read - 
(5.2.1) Muhurat for Marriage 
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(5.3.5) Popular Muhurat (Aboojh Muhurat) for Marriage.

(10.3.44) Kokila Vrat 2017

Kokila Vrat 2017 / Kokila Vrat dates in 2017

When is Kokila Vrat in 2017
In the year 2017 Kokila Vrat begins on Saturday, 08.07.2017.
Important things about Kokila Vrat -
(1) Kokila Vrat is observed for one month i.e. from Aashadh Shukla Purnima to Shravan Shukla Purnima. The.Kokila Vrat process / Kokila Vrat Vidhi should be observed.
(2) Kokila Vrat is dedicated to  goddess Sati (Gauri/ Parvati).
(3) In this Vrat Goddess Sati is worshiped in the form of  Kokila (a bird cuckoo).(To know why she is worshiped in the form Kokila, click here.)
(4) This Vrat is observed by women.
(5) It is believed that the woman who observes this Vrat, gets good fortune, good sons and wealth.And after her death she goes to the abode of Gauri (Parvati). (For detail click Benefits of Kokila Vrat )

Other Posts you will like to read -

(13.1.24) Kokila Vrat process / Kokila Vrat Vidhi
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(10.3.44) Kokila Vrat  (When is Kokila Vrat)

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(13.1.25) Kokila Vrat Katha
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(13.1.26) Importance of Kokila Vrat / Benefits of Kokila Vrat

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(10.5.1) List of Hindu Festivals and Vrat etc.  

=======

(10.3.43) Yogini Ekadashi / Yogini Ekadashi Vrat 2017

Yogini Ekadashi Vrat 2017 Importance of Yogini Ekadashi Vrat 

When is Yogini Ekadashi in 2017

Ashadh Krishna Ekadashi is known as Yogini Ekadashi.

(Click Here for the date of falling Yogini Ekadashi and other Ekadashis)

Importance of Yogini Ekadashi -

- Observing the fast on Yogini Ekadashi washes away the sins of the Vrati (the person who observes fast) committed by him knowingly or unknowingly.

- The Vrati's wishes are fulfilled.

- The Vrati can get rid of skin diseases, even leprosy if he observes this Vrat with full faith and devotion.

- The Vrati gets salvation and goes to heaven after his death.

Yogini Ekadashi Vrat Vidhi - (For detail, click here 10.3.33)

(1) The person who wants to observe Apara Ekadashi fast should get up early in the morning on Dashami Tithi, a day before Ekadashi. He should take a bath and perform his daily routine. He should have a single meal on Dashami Tithi.

(2) On Ekadashi , no meal is taken. (But if health does not permit, one should take some fruits and milk.) In the night the Vrati should hear the religious discourses or read religious books.

(3) On Dwadashi Tithi, the Vrati should break the Vrat after feeding the Brahmins and giving them some Dan.

The Legend about Yogini Ekadashi -

Kuber, the king of Alkapuri  had a servant whose name was Hemamali. The servant's duty was to pick flowers for Kuber. He used the flowers in worshiping Lord Shiva.One day Hemamali got lost in enjoying with his wife and remained unable in  carrying the flowers before the time of worshiping. At this Kuber got angry and cursed the servant to suffer from leprosy and become separated from his wife. 

After going from one place to another (as a leper) Hemamali reached the Himalayas where he fortunately met a great sage Markandeya. Hemamali told him why and what had happened to him. Markandeya Rishi advised him,"If you observe fast on Yogini Ekadashi,you will be free from this terrible curse."

Following the advice of the Rishi, Hemamali observed the Vrat. By the auspicious effect of the Vrat he was free from the curse and became handsome as before.  

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'astromuhurat.com' wishes you and your family a very happy Yogini Ekadashi.

May this Yogini Ekadashi fulfill your wishes and bring you joy, peace and prosperity!

*******

Other Posts you will like to read - 

(10.3.31) 26 Ekadashi and their names
================

(10.3.33) Importance of Ekadashi and Vrat Vidhi

(4.4.1) Stories from Panchtantra

Pancchtantra kee Kahaniyan

Here under are given the list of the stories from Pannchtantra, a book on Nitishastra -
 The First Tantra
*The  Monkey and the Log
*The Jackal and the Drum
* The Merchant Dantila
* The Jackal and the Sanyasi 
* The Cobraand the Crow
* The Heron and the Crab
The Second Tantra
* The Sadhu and the Mouse
* Mother Shandhili
* The Merchant's son
The Third Tantra
* Enmity between Crows and Owls
* The Hares and the Elephants 
* The Hare and the Partridge
* The Brahmin and three Crooks
* The Brahmin and the Cobra
The Fourth Tantra
* The king of Frogs and the Snake
* The lion and the Donkey
* The Potter called Yudhisthira
* The Lioness and the young Jackal 
* Nanda and Vaaruchi
The Fifth Tantra
* The Brahmin's Wife and the Mongoose 
* Chakradhar
* Four Learned Fools 
* Two Fishes and the Frog
* The Singing Donkey
* The Weaver 
Other Posts you will like to read - (4.4) Panchtantra, a book of Moral Stories

(8.3.6) Dwadash Jyotitling Stotra

Dwadash Jyotirlinga 

Here under are the four Shlokas which have the names of the the names of the twelve Jyotirlingas and the places where they are situates. The person who recites these jyotirlingas every evening and every morning, is freed from all the sins committed in past seven lives.

Souraashtre Somnaatham Cha Shree Shaile Mallikaarjunam.
Ujjayinyaam Mahaakaalmonkaaramamaleshvaram (1)
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Paralyaam Vaidhhnaatham Cha Daakinyaam Bheemshankaram.
Setubandhe Tu Raamesham Naagesham Daarukaavane. (2)
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Vaaraanasyaam Tu Vishvesham Tryambakam Goutamee Tate.
Himaalaye Tu Kedaaram Ghushmesham Cha Shivaalaye. (3)
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Etaani Jyotirlingaani Saayam Praatah Pathennarah.
Saptjanmkritam Paapam Smaranena Vinashyati. (4)
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Meaning -
Shree Som naath Jyotirlinga in Souraashtra,
Shree Mallikaarjun Jyotirlinga in Shree Shail,
Shree Mahaakaal Jyotirlinga in Ujjain,
Shree Omkaareshvar or Amaleshvar Jyotirlinga in Ujjain,
Shree Vaidhhyanaath Jyotirlinga in Parali,
Shree Bheemshankar Jyotirlinga at Daakini,
Shree Rameshvar Jyotirlinga at Setubandh,
Shree Naageshvar Jyotirlinga in Daarukaavan,
Shree Vishvanaath Jyotirlinga in Varaanashee,
Shree Tryambakeshvar Jyotirlinga at Gautami (Godawaree),
Shree Kedaar Naath Jyotirlinga in Kedaar Khand, Himaalaya,
Shree Ghushmeshvar Jyotirlinga in Shivaalaya.
Recitation of these names of twelve Jyotirlingas, eliminates the sins committed in the last seven births. Besides it, the person becomes enlightened with the divine knowledge.
Other Posts you will like to read - 
(14) Hindu Gods and Goddesses

(10.4.4) Mahesh Jayanti 2017 / Mahesh Navami 2017

Mahesh Jayanti dates in 2017/ Mahesh Navami dates in 2017 / Important things about Mahesh Jayanti / Why is Mahesh Jayanti celebrated ? महेश जयंती / महेश नवमी 

When is Mahesh Jayanti in 2017
Jeshtha Shukla Navami is known and celebrated as Mahesh Jayanti or Mahesh Navami.
In the year 2017, Mahesh Jayanti is on Saturday, 03.06.2017.
Important things about Mahesh Jayanti -
(1) It is said that Jeshtha Shukla Navami (Mahesh Navami) is the day of origin or formation of Maheshwari Community. 
(2) This day is dedicated to Lord Mahesh (Lord Shiva).
(3) Maheshwari community worship Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati on this day.
(4) At many places the people of Maheshwari community take out processions on this occasion. They sing prayers and Bhajans. Shiv Abhishek is also performed.
(5) People celebrate this festival with faith and dedication to Lord Shiva and goddess Parvati.
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'astromuhurat.com' wishes you a very happy Mahesh Jayanti.
"May this Mahesh Navami bring you peace, prosperity and joy !"

(4.4) Panchtantra (A Book of Moral Stories)

Panchtantra kee Kahaniyan 

'Panchtantra' is a book of tales which was originally written in Sanskrit by a great scholar Pt. Vishnu Sharma. Panchtantra is written in the form of stories (fables). These stories always end with a moral. It is a book on Neeti Shastra i.e. a book showing 'how to conduct in life.' In a book of Neeti Shastra we find 'what is good and what is bad', 'what to do and what not to do.' We find the same things in Panchtantra also. Each story of the book has some lesson or the other to teach. These stories teach us what to do to get success,how to know which of the people are reliable and trustworthy.This book also guides how to face the difficulties that come in our way and how to solve them using tact and wisdom. In some cases the fables prove that a tact is more useful than talent.

The following story shows why and how the Panchtantra'was written-

Once there lived a king. His name was Amarshakti.He had three sons who were dull and ignorant and had no interest in study. He was worried about  the well being of his sons. One of his ministers whose name was Sumati advised him to send the princes to a great scholar named Vishnu Sharma for their study. He can instruct them very well in a short period. Following his advice the king sent for Vishnu Sharma to the palace and requested him to accept his three sons as his disciples and educate them in Nitishastra.Vishnu Sharma agreed to take the princes to his Ashram and promised to educate them in Niti Shastra within six months. The king was pleased to hear it and handed over his sons to him.

Vishnu Sharma took the princes to his Ashram. As a part of their study he told them a chain of stories which were divided in five Tantras . The five Tantras are- 

(1) Mitrabhed (The separation of friends or conflict among friends) (2) Mitra Samprapti (Gaining or winning of friends) (3) Kaakolokeeya (Crows and owls) (4) Labdh Pranaash (Loss of gains or forfeit of profits) (5) Aparikshit Karak (Action without due consideration)