Articles by Prakriti Anand

Hanuman in the Mahabharata and Other Lesser-Known Legends of Mahabali

Hanuman, the deity who is a devotee first, is synonymous with Bhakti- an affection towards one’s God that goes beyond what can be defined by “devotion”. The legends of his power and wisdom bring to life the episodes of Ramayana, making him one of the most prominent characters of the epic. But his presence in the other epic- Mahabharata- is often overlooked. Always present in the images of the Kurukshetra, on the flag of Arjun’s chariot, Hanuman (one of the Chiranjeevi immortals) lived to see and participate in the famous war.

Published in Mar 2025

Lord Balarama: Story, Symbolism, Mahabharata, Wife Revati, Adi Shesha & Historical Legacy

Vishnu has Sudarshan, Shiva his Trishula, and goddess Durga her mighty ten weapons. But there is one Hindu god who chose something different- a plough or Hala. The elder brother of Sri Krishna, one of the Yadu-Kula warriors and a deity associated with farming, fertility, and power, Balaram, while accompanying Krishna from the beginning of his Lilas, is still a lesser-known figure in Hindu traditions. Here, we look at the stories of Balaram from the Puranas and the Mahabharata, where he appears as an incarnation of Adi Shesha, ansha avatar or partial incarnation of Vishnu, or in some sources, such as the Saura Purana (a Upapurana), one of the Dashavatara or ten incarnations of Vishnu-Narayana.

Published in Mar 2025

What is the Story of Mariamman?

The many legends of Mariamman still reside in her rituals and temples and come alive during her festivals, when the goddess meets her devotees who visit her from all over the world. For the devotees, the question of whether Mariamman is Parvati, Durga, or Kali is not as relevant as the fact that she is their Amman, mother, who will always answer their call. The worship of goddess Mariamman is characterized by local rituals- some that require immense dedication, such as fire walking, while others are simple and more personal, like offering her homemade food and praying to her daily for blessings or special boons. According to some beliefs, Mariamman is an aspect of the goddess Parvati. The connection between Mariamman and Parvati is most strongly seen in the Patala Ponni Amman Temple at Chennai, where the goddess Ponni is worshipped as an aspect of Parvati, and also as a grama devata, with Shiva as her consort.

Published in Mar 2025

Indian Wood Carving: A Journey Through History, Heritage, and Artistry

Wooden craftsmanship may not live for centuries like metal, but it carries a subtle charm that easily blends into both traditional and contemporary spaces. Every artistic piece of wooden craft discussed here is a result of skills and labor, with artisans dedicating months and sometimes years, learning from their masters how to perfect intricate carvings, ensuring that every work of Indian woodcraft tells its own unique story. The warmth and elegance of wooden decor bring a sense of refinement to any home, adding character without overwhelming the space. If you have heirloom furniture pieces, hold on to them and put them to good use. Wood carving is a common but an elegant art in all parts of India. Each region in India has its own style of structures and carving styles.

Published in Mar 2025

Andhakasuravadha: The iconography and Legends Behind the lesser-known fierce form of Shiva

Andhakasura was born from the union of Parvati’s sweat and Shiva’s potent heat, in a moment when the great goddesses covered his eyes with her hands playfully, emerging out of the darkness that spread when Shiva’s eyes were closed. Andhaka, due to his blindness and dark colored form, was given to the demon Hiranyaksha, the brother of Hiranyakashyapu, as his son. Andhaka, despite his immense power and boons, born from the divine Shiva and Parvati, was blinded by his ego and lust, leading him to challenge the very forces that created him. However, Shiva’s divine justice not only punished him but also gave him a chance for spiritual transformation, showing that even the gravest sinners can attain grace through sincere penance and devotion.

Published in Mar 2025

Whispers of the Dakini: From Odisha to Tibet, the Rise of Buddhist Tantra

Ratnagiri established itself as a place of the union of philosophy and power since the time of the Guptas, especially under Narasinghagupta Baladitya. He was followed by the Bhaumakaras from the 7th to 10th century CE, who patronized Ratnagiri, which simultaneously developed as a key point in Southeast Asian trade as well as a place of intriguing local and trans-regional cultural exchanges.

Published in Feb 2025

Ratnagiri’s Secrets Unearthed: A New Chapter in India’s Buddhist Heritage

Recently, interest in Odisha’s Buddhist heritage has been fueled by some intriguing discoveries, reaffirming the region’s historical significance as a major center of Buddhist learning and art. The newest excavations at Ratnagiri have revealed a 1.4-meter Buddha head, a monolithic elephant whose naturalism reminds one of the Dhauli rock-cut elephant, intricately carved votive stupas, inscribed stone tablets, and other priceless relics, shedding new light on the grandeur of this ancient Mahavihara complex. These findings, dating back to the 5th–13th centuries CE, provide fresh insights into the evolution of Buddhist thought, artistic expression, and the dynamic spiritual exchanges whose impact goes beyond the borders of modern-day India.

Published in Feb 2025

Shiva Ratri Vrata Mahatmya: Fasting and the Method of Shivaratri Puja as Told by Lord Shiva

After sunrise, the devotee should perform worship of Shiva with various articles and rituals as mentioned in the Shastras. They should get their Abhisheka (consecration) done by Brahmanas and offer them food and Dakshina as vowed during the Puja. Then, with flowers in hands, one should bow in front of Shiva and say- “O benevolent one, I am yours, my Praana (life) and Chitta (consciousness) are yours, do with me as you please”. “O Bhutanatha, I performed your worship according to my knowledge (or lack thereof), so with your kindness, accept it and be pleased with me”. “Be pleased with the fruit of this Upavasa. Bless my kin so that they eternally worship you and do not let me take birth in a kin where you are not worshipped.”

Published in Feb 2025

Goddess Padmavati: The Consort of Lord Venkateswara and the Goddess of Prosperity

Goddess Padmavati, also known as Alamelu Mangai, is an incarnation of Lakshmi and the consort of Lord Venkateswara (Tirupati Balaji). She represents wealth, prosperity, and devotion. This blog explores her legends, marriage, temples, iconography, and significance in Vaishnavism, particularly in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, along with some lesser-known legends of Maa Padmavati.

Published in Feb 2025

Rama Raksha Stotram: Sri Rama’s Eternal Sheild for the Devotee

In Hindu tradition, Stotram or stotra is a stuti or prayer or a poetic verse about the powers and benevolence of a deity. Stotram is recited by the devotee regularly or on special occasions to gain blessings and pay respect to the god or goddess who is addressed in the Stotra. Among the many powerful Stotram that are a part of traditional Hindu rituals, is the Rama Raksha Stotram- the verses that symbolize the shield offered by Sri Rama against all negative and evil forces, to whoever sings this emotive hymn of Rama.

Published in Feb 2025

Who is Meldi Maa? Gujarat's Powerful Folk Goddess of Protection & Fertility

Meldi Maa is a folk goddess of Gujarat, especially worshipped in Saurashtra as the protector of people, farms, and travelers. Legend says she was created from the divine energy of Goddess Uma to defeat evil forces. Meldi Maa is shown riding a goat with eight arms holding sacred weapons. Her temples are found across Gujarat and Maharashtra, and she is also closely associated with Mata ni Pachedi art and local traditions, including prayers for overseas travel and U.S. visas. Discover who Meldi Maa is, her legend, temples, symbolism, worship, and Gujarat folk traditions linked to this powerful protector goddess.

Published in Jan 2025

Kurma (Turtle) Avatar: Vishnu’s Second Incarnation that Balanced Creation

When the gods and demons began Samdura-Manthan, they needed someone to carry the weight of the mighty Mount Mandara. Someone who was stable but not feeble, someone who could be trusted with carrying the weight of universal balance. All eyes were on Vishnu, the Paalankarta (preserver), who transformed himself into a gigantic turtle and thus began the churning of the cosmic ocean.

Published in Jan 2025

Matsya Avatar: Vishnu’s First Incarnation in Dashavatara

Matsya avatar, the first incarnation among the Dashavatara (10 forms) of Vishnu, is a rarely depicted aspect of the Hindu preserver god. Revered in the Vedas, Upanishads, Puranas, and epics, the legend of the Matsya avatar is the story of Vishnu coming to the aid of the residents of Earth for the first time. Associated with the cosmic narrative of Pralaya or deluge, the Matsya avatar is a lesser-known form of Vishnu, rooted in the ancient traditions of India. Let us learn about the history, iconography, stories, and temples of Matsyavataram, and understand why Vishnu took the form of a fish.

Published in Jan 2025

Maha Kumbha 2025: All About Kumbha Mela, History, Significance and Traditions

The story begins in the time of the gods when the Samudra-Manthan was taking place. The “Amrita Kumbha” or pot of nectar that emerged from the churning of the ocean, is said to be in the hands of Indra, Vishnu as Mohini, or Garuda (as per different sources) when a few drops trickled on the earth, marking the 4 spots where Kumbha Mela takes place. According to some traditions, Indra’s son Jayant is believed to have transported Amrita to heaven, a journey that took him 12 days, which in human time is equal to 12 years, establishing the tradition of Kumbha Mela.

Published in Dec 2024

Culture Comes Home: 1440 Artifacts Returned to India by US (United State)

Attacks on sites of religious and political importance and looting of sculptures and artifacts as an expression of victory and a way of adding insult to injury have been a war tactic since pre-modern times. The infamous plundering of the Somnath Temple, during which many of its treasures and artifacts were stolen by Mahmud Ghazni, is one of the many events in history where the act of taking away art was a way of marking one’s victory and shaming the defeated dynasties. The site of Somnath has finally regained its glory, with kings in the medieval period and prominent devotees, temple trust, and ASI devoting resources to its preservation.

Published in Nov 2024

Varaha Avatar: Vishnu's Powerful Boar Incarnation to Save the Earth

Discover the legend of Varaha, Vishnu's boar incarnation. Learn about his powerful avatar, his triumph over the demon Hiranyaksha, and his iconography in Indian culture. Varaha, the boar incarnation of Vishnu, is one of the most powerful and symbolic avatars in Hindu mythology. Emerging to rescue Bhudevi from the ocean’s depths, Varaha slayed the demon Hiranyaksha and restored balance to the universe. This article explores Varaha’s Vedic roots, stunning temple art, rare iconography, and spiritual relevance today from his origins in cosmic rescue to his ongoing worship in Indian temples.

Published in Nov 2024

Naraka Chaturthi: Untold Story of Krishna’s Victory over Demon Narakasura

The Puranas narrate the story of Narakasura, beginning with the abduction of the Earth goddess, Bhudevi by the demon Hiranyaksha. To protect Bhudevi, Sri Vishnu takes the incarnation of Varaha, one of the Dashavatars, and plunges into the depths of the great ocean. The boar-faced god brings Bhudevi to the surface, raising her on his tusks, a divine vision for the gods and humans who rejoice. During this rescue, a few drops of Varaha’s sweat fall on Earth (some sources tell that it was the piercing of Varaha’s tusk into the earth), as a result of which, Bhudevi bore Varaha’s son, named Bhaumasura (Bhauma- belonging to Bumi, a title of Mangala Graha, who is also the son of the earth goddess).

Published in Oct 2024

Saptarishi: The Seven Sages of Hinduism, Names, Meaning & Significance

The Saptarishi, or Seven Sages of Hinduism, are revered seers who embody divine wisdom and cosmic order. Represented in the Ursa Major constellation, they guide humanity through spiritual knowledge and Vedic teachings. Ancient texts such as the Rigveda and Puranas describe them as enlightened beings blessed by Lord Brahma and Vishnu, whose insight bridges heaven and earth and continues to illuminate Hindu cosmology and ritual life.

Published in Oct 2024

Diwali Special: Set Up your Pooja Ghar with Us

This Diwali, elevate your Pooja Ghar with essential ritual items that invite prosperity, wisdom, and spiritual energy. From Lakshmi-Ganesha idols and diyas to Ashtalakshmi Kalash, Sri Yantra, 108 coins, and Abhisheka Patra, each item serves a sacred purpose in festive worship. Handcrafted by skilled artisans using pure metals and traditional techniques, these items ensure ritual purity and aesthetic beauty. Perfect for Diwali Pooja, they simplify worship and enhance the sanctity of your home altar.

Published in Oct 2024

Maa Durga: One Name, Many Forms

Who is Maa Durga? Revered as the supreme mother and cosmic warrior, Durga embodies the divine feminine in countless forms across India and the world. During Navaratri, devotees celebrate her power, protection, and grace, honoring regional, folk, and Tantric manifestations that fight evil and nurture life. From Mahishasuramardini to Mariamman, each form tells a unique story of Shakti, the universal energy. Mariamman, and explore their legends, worship, and cultural significance across India and beyond.

Published in Sep 2024

Antique Indian Doors : From Architecture to Art

Many years ago, a man from Greece came to the ancient city of Pataliputra. He was sent by the court of Greece as an ambassador to India. Like any foreigner on a visit, he wrote about his time in the grand capital city of Magadha, mentioning, among other things, the many imposing gateways that protected the city from every direction. Made with wood and metal, the doors of Pataliputra attracted the attention of Megashtenese, and rightfully so. Doors are the first thing that we see when we enter a place and the last thing that meets the eye upon leaving the space. Acting as a connecting element and a protective shield in buildings, doors have always been an important part of Indian sacred architecture, viewed beyond their utilitarian value. Let us look at the history of doors in India and how they went on to become a part of modern decor.

Published in Sep 2024

Mysore Paintings: History, Technique & Gold Leaf Art of Karnataka

Mysore paintings are traditional South Indian artworks that blend delicate brushwork, muted colors, and gold leaf detailing. Originating in Karnataka during the Vijayanagara period, this art form evolved under royal patronage, particularly the Wodeyar dynasty. Crafted on handmade canvases using gesso and gold foil, Mysore paintings often depict Hindu deities and epics. Their refined finish, devotional aura, and subtle color harmony make them one of India’s most revered classical art traditions.

Published in Sep 2024

Pashupatinath Temple Nepal: Where Shiva Reigns Supreme

On the banks of the holy Bagmati River, in the lap of the Himalaya, lies the land of Shiva, where souls find Moksha and devotees find a connection with their Mahadeva. Pashupatinath Temple of Nepal, dedicated to Shiva’s form of the Lord of Pashu (soul), is a powerful and unparalleled Hindu temple. It was declared a World Heritage Site in 1979, and rightfully so. A center of pilgrimage for not just Hindus but Buddhists, Jains, and Sikhs from all over the world, the Pashupatinath Temple is as old as time.

Published in Sep 2024

Hindi Diwas Special: 10 Sahitya Akademi Award-Winning Books in Hindi for Your Reading List

Hindi Diwas books highlight the richness of Hindi literature through award-winning works recognized by the Sahitya Akademi, India’s National Academy of Letters. These books span themes like partition, politics, philosophy, and everyday life, written by some of the most influential Hindi authors. Exploring these titles helps readers understand India’s cultural and literary evolution while discovering meaningful, critically acclaimed Hindi books worth reading today.

Published in Sep 2024