Spirituality/Culture

For thousands of years, Diwali remained a private, family event, with relatives getting together at the home of the eldest member of the family to celebrate three days of ‘togetherness,’ welcoming perhaps a new groom, bride or even a child in to the family. The annual Festival was also an occasion for visiting relatives to [...]

Dussehra, also known as Vijaya Dashami, is a major celebration in Hinduism and followed by Hindus all around the globe. It is also commonly referred to as the festival of good vs evil since it symbolizes the defeat of Ravana by Lord Ram. Dussehra is celebrated on the tenth day of the Hindu autumn lunar [...]

Global Esoteric Traditions Esoteric, mystical, and occult traditions have been widely connected worldwide as far back as we can trace their history. These often secret teachings cross over realms of healing, astrology, alchemy, Yoga, mantra, and meditation, emphasizing internal practices to raise our awareness to higher states of consciousness. They have been also important in [...]

The Origin of Onam Onam or Thiruonam originated as a joyous annual reminiscence of the golden rule of King Mahabali, a king, who ruled Kerala a very long time ago. It recalls the sacrifice of the great king, his true devotion to God, his human pride and his ultimate redemption. Onam welcomes the spirit of [...]

There has been a considerable debate extending from recent centuries to current interfaith dialogues as to whether Hinduism is a monotheistic religion, and if so whether Hinduism can perhaps be included among the great monotheistic traditions of the world.  This question of Hinduism and monotheism reflects certain preconceptions that should be carefully examined. First is [...]

Festivity has gripped the nation on Krishna Janmashtami, which is observed on the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna. While worshiping Lord Krishna is a big ritual, Dahi Handi festival is also a key attraction in Maharashtra and across India.   Lord Krishna, an Avatar of L0rd Vishnu, was born exactly at the stroke of midnight. [...]

Like the unique Vedanta philosophy, the ancient yet vibrant Sanskrit language, the all-encompassing system of Yoga, Indian music is yet another exercise of the Indian mind in its path of exploration into the mysteries of Nature and of Ultimate Truth. The word Bharata (India) – which is condensed out of the musical expression Bhava, Raga [...]

Canadian cities of Brampton and Pickering would be celebrating Rakshabandhan with fervour this year. The cities have officially acknowledged Rakshabandhan, which will be celebrated on August 10. Brampton Mayor Susan Fennell and Pickering Mayor Ryan would be present to celebrate Rakshabandhan in different locations in their respective cities. Daniel Masih, campaign director, Rakshabandhan Day (Brother-Sister [...]

When I used to study for exams at university I sometimes kept a copy of the Gita on the table with me. I’d read a page or two now and again, for example during breaks. Straight away I would begin to feel more focused and positive. The Gita certainly was an important companion for me [...]

In evolving standards of conduct and shaping values, we have to take into consideration the variety and complexity of human life and nature. The Dharma, at once religious law of action and deepest law of our nature, is not, as in the Western idea, a creed, cult or ideal inspiring an ethical and social rule; [...]