Namaste - वेद Veda

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Web Name: Namaste - वेद Veda

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Join This SiteDo you wish to contribute or become a member of this site? You can Join This Site!.Were all other monuments swept away from the face of Hindustan, were all its inhabitants destroyed, and its name forgotten, the existence of the Sanskrit language would prove that it once contained a race who had reached a high degree of refinement, and who must have been blessed with many rare advantages before such a language could have been formed and polished. Amidst the wreck of nations where it flourished, and superior to the havoc of war and conquest, it remains a venerable monument of the splendour of other times, as the solid Pyramid in the deserts of Egypt Lady Callcott (Mrs Graham)The Vedic tradition of knowledge, based on the extensive Vedic literature, is the oldest tradition of knowledge in the world. Though it has been long preserved in India, this traditional wisdom has been almost lost in recent centuries—due in part to repeated foreign invasions. The Vedic tradition includes detailed information on a wide range of topics—from astronomy to music, architecture to health care, administration to economy. But it is all based on the knowledge of consciousness—including technologies of consciousness, and evolution to the highest state of consciousness (enlightenment).From the invention of the decimal system in mathematics to the noble philosophy of ahimsã, Hindus have contributed their share in all fields of knowledge and learning. Over five thousand years ago, when Europeans were only nomadic forest dwellers, ancient Hindus had established a civilization, known as the Harappan culture, in the Indus Valley, the northwestern region of India. When much of the world was still sunk in sleep, people of the Harappan culture were conducting trade workshops in weaving, bead-making, pottery, dying of fabrics, and metallurgy. read more...Ancient Hindus were first to suggest a heliocentric solar system. Speed of light was calculated as 1,85,016 miles/sec. They had even calculated the distance between Earth and Moon as 108 diameters of Moon and Earth and Sun as 108 diameters of Sun. These figures are very close to the modern day values. All these were stated several thousand years before the famous scientist Galileo postulated in the west that sun was the center of the planetary system and Earth was not flat, which was against the prevailing religious doctrines and he died during his house-arrest by clergy. Another astonishing invention was ancient Hindus calculated the age of Earth as 4.3 billion years. The modern estimate is 4.5 billion years. Just remember that the biblical age of the Earth, as per Christians, is just 6,000 years!.VedaThe Vedic tradition of knowledge, based on the extensive Vedic literature, is the oldest tradition of knowledge in the world.Hinduism at a GlanceIf you're new to this faith, here's where to begin. In this simple introduction to a complex religion, get your basic questions on Hinduism answered and explained in brief.HinduismOverview of Hindusim.Sanatana DharmaSanatana Dharma is is the original name of what is now popularly called Hinduism. Sanatana Dharma is the world's most ancient culture and the socio, spiritual, and religious tradition of almost one billion of the earth's inhabitants.FAQs - HinduismCovers the frequently asked questions on Hindu Dharma.SanskritSanskrit is considered to be the oldest language in human history. Sanskrit is the progenitor and inspiration for virtually every language spoken in India. Sanskrit has a tradition going back at least 5,000 years and is the language in which every ancient Hindu text, devotional or otherwise, is written in.Do you know?Little bits of information on amazing facts related to Hindus and India.Pearls of WisdomA selection of quotes relating to various aspects of Hinduism on Vedas, Dharma, Athma, Ayurveda and others.GlimpsesGlimpses through the lens on Hindu thought, culture, contribution, events and its global presence.These are the basic tenets or the pillars upon which the entire superstructure of what is called Hinduism (Sanatana Dharma) is built like a huge multi-storied skyscraper.DharmaIs the universal odering principal and the code for leading one's life that encompasses all aspects of our lives.KarmaThe divine Law of Action that lays forth the results of free-willed actions, which leave their imprint on the Self, called as atman.SamsaraTransmigration, evolution through rebirth back to Godhead. The atman's transmigration through a cycle of birth and death, until it attains moksha, is governed by karma.BrahmanThe Ultimate Reality that is unchanging, infinite, immanent, and transcendent which is the Divine Ground of all matter, energy, time, space, being, and everything beyond in this Universe.AtmanThe Individual Conciousness or the non-material Self, which is distinct from both the manas (mind) and the stula sarira (gross physical body). This real self is beyond the temporary designations we normally ascribe to ourselves, in terms of race, gender, species and nationality.Īshvara / bhagavanThe Supreme Brahman although One and Inconceivable, in order to interact with the physical universe which is projection of Itself, Brahman takes on a personal aspect known as Isvara.TrimurtiThe Trinity (literally indicating three forms or trinity), is the representation of the three projections of the Supreme Reality, each with a specific cosmic function. These manifestations are that of Brahma (serving the cosmic function of creation), Vishnu (serving the cosmic function of renewal and preservation), and Shiva (serving the cosmic function of dissolution or destruction that precedes re-creation).MayaUnreal or deceptive image of the creation and the illusion of a limited, purely physical and mental reality in which our everyday consciousness has become entangled, a veiling of the true, unitary Self, also known as Brahman.guruSpiritual Preceptor Sanatana Dharma is a living, experiential religion and therefore the centrality of the spiritual preceptor (guru) is absolute.dhyânaThe focusing of attention on a particular spiritual idea in continuous meditation.sadhanaThe spiritual effort and the means of self-realization, is the practice that leads to enlightenment or spiritual knowledge, understanding and wisdom.satsangaThe practice of being in the presence of the wise, in whose company it is easier to learn and practice.yogaThe Path of Self-Realization. Liberation of every Atman through a variety of paths, such as bhakti (devotion), karma (action) and Jñana (knowledge).mukti / mokshaLiberation from this material existence and samsara (cycle of birth and death), to join, reach or develop a relationship with the Brahman (Universal Spirit), is known as moksha, which is the ultimate goal of Hindus.mantraSyllables, inaudible or vocalized, that are repeated during meditation.prânaLife energy that permeates the atmosphere, enters the human being through the breath, and can be directed by thought.srishtiThe universal becoming.purusharthasThe Four Ends of Human Life four efforts which man must make in order to fulfill his individual existence: (i) artha (wealth), (ii) kama (love), (iii) dharma (duty), and (iv) moksha (liberation).ashramasThe four successive stages of life. The Vedas divide our lives into four different stages they are brahmacarya (being a student), grihasta (being a householder), vanaprastha (forest dweller) and sannyasa (stage of renunciation).varnashrama dharmaSocial duty. Varna dharma defines the individual's obligations and responsibilities within the nation, society, community, class, occupational subgroup and family.Yama and NiyamaCode of Conduct the yamas and niyamas have been preserved through the centuries as the foundation, the first and second stage, of the eight-staged practice of yoga. Yet, they are fundamental to all beings, expected aims of everyone in society, and assumed to be fully intact for anyone seeking life's highest aim in the pursuit called yoga.Kinds of DharmaIllustrates the different aspects of dharma] in the day-to-day practice of morality and ethics, such as the svadharma (dharma of an individual), parivarika-dharma (family-dharma), samaja-dharma (society-dharma), rashtra-dharma (national dharma), manava-dharma (the dharma of mankind), yuga dharma (dharma applicable for an era), apad dharma (exceptional/abnormal situational dharma) and rita (universal dharma).The 36 TattvasThe Ancient Scriptures of India analyze the Process of Universal Emanation into thirty-six main stages or phases.panchakoshaThe five sheaths of consciousness that encase the overall human system. They are annamaya kosha (the physical tissues or the cellular structure), the pranamaya kosha (the ‘energy sheath’), the manomaya kosha (mental sheath), vijnanamaya kosha (the sheath of higher intellect), and the anandamaya kosha (the body of ‘Cosmic Consciousness’).samskāraPatterned or conditioned behaviors; subconscious tendencies; worldly life. A series of Sacraments, Sacrifices and Rituals that serve as rites of passage and mark the various stages of the Human life and to signify entry to a particular Ashrama. Some traditions mention ten rites of passage, or up to sixteen or occasionally even more only four are currently popular, namely: 1. jatakarma (birth ceremonies plus others in childhood), 2. upanayana (initiation the sacred-thread ceremony), 3. vivaha (marriage), 4. antyeshti (funeral and rites for the dead).artha panchakaThere are the five categories of spiritual knowledge which one needs to study, reflect upon, realize and practice in order to progress spiritually. These are para-svarupam (The nature of the Godhead), sva-svarupam (The nature of the Self), purushartha svarupam (The nature of life’s goal), upaya svarupam (The means to attain that goal), and virodhi svarupam (The obstacles on the spiritual path).antahkaranaFour Inner Sheaths of the Mind internal organ of perception that form parts of the mind. The Mind constitute the antahkarana, which is fourfold – namely, manas, buddhi, ahankara, and chitta.arishadvargathe Six Passions of the Mind the negative characteristics which prevent man from realizing the Reality that is his True Being such as kama, krodha, lobha, moha, mada or ahankara and matsarya.shad-sampatThe six virtues, which bring about mental control and discipline.panchakleshaThe “five hindrances” to spiritual growth: avidya (ignorance), asmita (egoism), abhinivesha (clinging to life), raga (cravings), dwesha (aversions); also considered the “five roots” of all problems of human existence; the motivating factors which drive humans to act in such ways as to produce and perpetuate Karma.samashrayanamThe acharya initiates a person, irrespective of caste, creed or sex, as his sishya. It is a commitment from the disciple that he or she will live as per the wishes of the acharya. Thus the person gets the link to the parampara.mumukshutvaIntense desire for liberation. Stands for a burning desire to realize the Self within, which is the Self within us all.The Three GunasEvery individual exhibits three gunas in varying proportions. The three gunas or phases of matter are: sattva-guna, rajo-guna and tamo-guna.sadhana saptakaThe seventh-fold practice or qualities of mind and body we should practice to further us in our path of yoga.adhyatma prasaraThe Evolution of Life and Consciousness towards its Goal. It is a process that takes place over many lifetimes, not just one.atma anubhavamSelf-Realization which is the result of the practice of abstract meditation on the Brahman (Formless Absolute).bhagavat anubhavamGod-Realization which is the development of knowledge of, experience of, surrender to, and consequent service to the Supreme Being.samadhiState of enlightenment of super-consciousness. The union of the individual consciousness with cosmic consciousness.Law of KarmaThe doctrine of karma is actually the law of harmony and equilibrium. It adjusts wisely, intelligently and equitably each effect to its cause. But, it is also the law of opportunity, which allows an individual to change his past for a better future.Unity of ExistenceHindu sages have declared that the cosmic energy is a manifestation of the Brahman (Universal Spirit). The entire universe is a play between Brahman, or the cosmic consciousness, and the cosmic energy. Brahman has become all things and beings of the world. Thus we are all interconnected in subtle ways.Death and LokasWhen a person dies, his gross sukshma sharira (physical body) is left behind and the soul with the subtle body (consisting of the mind, intellect, sense organs, motor organs and vital energies) goes to a different plane of existence. Such a plane of existence is called loka in Sanskrit.Religious DisciplineHindus believe that wisdom is not an exclusive possession of any particular race or religion. Hindu Dharma allows an individual to select a religious discipline in accordance with one's own religious yearning and spiritual competence. Hindu Dharma recommends the guidance of a guru (spiritually awakened master) for attaining perfection in life.Harmony of ReligionsHindu sages declare that there is no one religion that teaches an exclusive road to salvation. All genuine spiritual paths are valid and all great religions are like the branches of a tree the tree of religion. This doctrine lays foundation for the Hindu ideal of universal harmony.adhyayanastudy of the Scriptures such as the Vedas, Upanishads, Mahabharata and Ramayana.danamThis term has a twofold reference; one is the giving of charity to the needy as well as doing social works for the benefit of society as a whole, and the other reference is to the gift of fearlessness to all creatures abhaya pradanam (not being the cause of fear to any living being).satyaPractice of Truth and harmony in thought, speech and action at all times; one should speak only that which is true and agreeable and beneficial to others, one should not needlessly say things that are hurtful even though they may be the truth. The practice of Truth includes in it such virtues as straightforwardness, frankness, absence of deviousness and malice etc.ahimsaThe cultivation of an attitude of non-injury to any being in word, deed, or thought.kshamaForgiveness and forbearance which come from loving kindness and compassion to all beings which is based on the awareness of the presence of the jiva in all beings.damahSelf restraint; one should impose restrictions on one’s desires and behavior and should avoid excesses and cultivate self- discipline.asteyaNot taking anything which is not givenshaucaPurity of both the body by regularly bathing and maintaining hygiene, and mental purity through practice of virtue and compassion.shantiThe cultivation of personal and environmental peace and contentment.tapasor tapah, the common meaning of this term is self-discipline which refers to simple living and constant mindfulness of God as well as purposive meditation as well as control of the body, mind and speech.yajñaWorship of God through the rituals that are prescribed in the Vedas and the agamas.gurusevanamRespecting and honouring elders and parents and caring for them.dayaImplies love for all creatures, such love being the very fulfilment of life. There is indeed no greater happiness than that derived by loving others. Daya is the backbone of all qualities.mangalaAuspicious air about happiness that is characterised by dignity and purity. One must be cheerful all the time and not keep growling at people on the slightest pretext. This itself is extremely helpful, to radiate happiness wherever we go and exude auspiciousness. It is better than making lavish gifts and throwing money about.vinayaHumility (a key personal characteristic required in many spiritual disciplines).ishvarapranidhanaSurrender.sraddhaUnwavering faith in the sacred scriptures or sastras and in the moral codes they contain as well as in the Atman and the Guru.vivekaDiscrimination between what is real (the immortal Atman, or true self), and unreal (the changing universe).vairagyaDetachment dispassion for all pleasures here and in hereafter, uncoloredness.mumukshuthwamThe longing for Moksha or Liberation.vivaranaCultivating a keenness for perceiving distinctions ie. between the true and the false.smaranaA constant mindfulness and contemplation of the spiritual truths.dharanaRetentiveness and recollection of lessons learnt.indriya nigrahaControl of the senses.Shad-DarsanaThe six darsanas or ways of seeing things, usually called the six systems or six different schools of thought. The six schools of philosophy are the six instruments of true teaching or the six demonstrations of Truth. Each school has developed, systematised and correlated the various parts of the Vedas in its own way. Each system has its Sutrakara, i.e., the one great Rishi who systematised the doctrines of the school and put them in short aphorisms or Sutras.VedantaAll forms of Vedanta are drawn primarily from the Upanishads, a set of philosophical and instructive Vedic scriptures, which deal mainly with forms of meditation.Yoga DarsanaIs among the Shad-Darsana or the six schools of Indian philosophy. The Aim of Yoga is the attainment of Moksha or Salvation. To attain this state of ultimate bliss, Yoga describes an eight-fold path called Ashtaanga Yoga .Schools of SaivaSix most notable Saiva schools are Saiva Siddhanta, Pashupata Saiva, Kashmir Saiva, Vira Saiva, Siddha Siddhanta and Siva Advaita.Nyaya System, rule; logic. A system of logical realism, known for its systems of logic and epistemology and concerned with the means of acquiring right knowledge. Its tools of enquiry and rules for argumentation were adopted by all schools of Hinduism.TantrasTantras are divided along sectarian lines and reflect the religious beliefs and practices of medieval India. They deal with four different subjects: philosophy, yoga or concentration techniques, ritual (including the making of icons and the building of temples), and the conduct of religious worship and social practice.sūtrassūtras metaphorically refers to an aphorism (or line, rule, formula), or large a collection of such aphorisms in the form of a manual is a distinct type of literary composition, based on short aphoristic statements, generally using various technical terms. Sūtras form a school of Vedic study, related to and somewhat later than the Upanishads.VedasThe Vedas are the oldest extant Hindu texts. The ideas expressed in the Vedas were traditionally handed down orally from father to son and from teacher to disciple.AgamaThe Ãgamas are theological treatises and practical manuals of divine worship. The Agamas include the Tantras, Mantras and Yantras. These are treatises explaining the external worship of God, in idols, temples, etcPurāṇasThe aim of the Puranas is to impress on the minds of the masses the teachings of the Vedas and to generate in them devotion to God, through concrete examples, stories, legends, lives of saints, kings and great men, allegories and chronicles of great historical events.Bhagavad GītāThe Bhagavad Gita is known as the Song Celestial. It is the most important sacred text in the Hindu tradition. It is Brahma-vidya, the knowledge of existence, as well as Yoga-shastra, scripture on the science of the Self.RamayanaThe Rãmãyana has been a perennial source of spiritual, cultural and artistic inspiration, not only to the people of India but also to the people all over the world. It has helped to mold the Hindu character and has inspired millions of people with the deepest of love and devotion.MahābhārataIt is an historical epic about the great kingdom of Bharatavarsa, or the region of India. It contains 110,000 couplets making it the longest poem and greatest epic in world literature.UpanishadsThe Upanishads are epic hymns of self-knowledge and world-knowledge and God-knowledge. There is no book in the whole world that is so thrilling, soul-stirring and inspiring as the Upanishad. The philosophy taught by the Upanishads has been the source of solace for many, both in the East and the West. The human intellect has not been able to conceive of anything more noble and sublime in the history of the world than the teachings of the Upanishads.vedāṅgaThe Vedanga ( member of the Veda ) are six auxiliary disciplines for the understanding and tradition of the Vedas.BrahmaBrahma is the creative aspect of the Trinity, the first god to have been separated from Iswara. Know more about Brahma, his significance in Hindu pantheon and his numerous attributes.VishnuVishnu is the preserver and maintainer of the worlds. A minor god of Vedic pantheon, Vishnu assumed great importance during the post Vedic period. know about his attributes, his incarnations and his various aspectsSivaSiva is the destroying and evolving aspect of the universe. He is the most powerful, popular and dynamic god of Hinduism with roots definitely outside the pale of Hinduism. Know the aspects, manifestations and greatness ofGaneshaGanesha is the first among the gods, the leader of the gods and the Siva Ganas. He is remover of all obstacles and impediments, who is worshipped invariably by devout Hindus, before starting any venture or offering worship to other gods.LakshmiShe is the goddess of wealth and consort of Mahavishnu. She was born from the milky ocean when the gods and demons churned it in search of immortality. She is referred in the Vedas both as Sri and Lakshmi. Sri means agricultural wealth SaraswathiShe is the goddess of learning, who is extolled in the Vedas as the sacred river with seven sisters, who helps the gods by destroying their foes. The early Vedic Aryans worshipped not the Ganges, but the Saraswathi river ParvathiParvathi is the consort of Siva. She got the name because she is the daughter of the mountains (parvathas) and also because she as Prakriti occupies one half (parva) of the universe while the other half is occupied by Siva in his aspect as Iswara or PurushaHanumanHanuman is one of the most popular gods of Hinduism today. A devotee of Lord Rama, Hanuman is worshipped and admired by children and adults alike for his devotion, strength and courage and for his commitment to the path of righteousness and divine centered life SkandaKumaraswami, also known as Skanda is the elder son of Siva and Parvathi. Unlike Ganesha, he is of beautiful form, intelligent and knowledgeable and uses a peacock as his vehicle. According to the legends, he was created by Siva and Parvathi to slay a demon by the name Tarakasura AshtadikpalasThe dikpalas are eight in number. As their collective name suggests, they rule the eight quarters or the eight zones of the universe. Ashta means eight, dik means quarters or directions and palas means rulers. According to Hinduism each quarter is assigned to a particular divinity.NavagrahasJust as many ancient civilizations had their own versions of astronomy, Hindus had their own version of astronomy since ancient times. Hindu astronomy was characterized by the presence of nine planetary influences and their respective positions in space. The nine planets are collectively called navagrahas.SuryaSurya is the blazing sun. He is one of the Adityas, god among gods, the light that is most excellent, golden colored, who rides the skies in his golden chariot, drawn byseven bay horses, who are described in the hymns as the daughters of heaven.IndraIndra is the lord of the heavens. He is the most popular and powerful of the vedic deities. He is described as the god of the blue sky.Shri Veda Vyasa (वेद व्‍यास)The name of Veda Vyasa is one of the most celebrated names among the great sages of India. He is the author of Mahabharata and the puranas. He is also the author of the Vedanta Sutras (Brahma Sutras).Maharshi ValmikiClaims the distinction of being the author of the epic Ramayana. He is also the author of Yoga Vasistha, a text that elaborates on a range of philosophical issues.Adi Sankaracharya (आदि शङ्कर)The first Hindu philosopher who consolidated the principles of the Advaita Vedanta philosophy in his writings.Maharishi PatanjaliPatanjali was a great sage that lived thousands of years ago. The Yoga Sutras he wrote seem to have transcended time remaining one of the most influential spiritual writings in Yoga. Also the author of a commentary on Panini's Ashtadhyayi, known as Mahabhasya.Rishi VishwamitraConsidered to be one of the most revered rishi (sages) of the ancient India.Madhvacharya (Kannada:ಶ್ರೀ ಮಧ್ವಾಚಾರ್ಯರು)The chief proponent of Tattvavāda (True Philosophy), popularly known as dvaita-advaita or dualistic school of Hindu thought. He wrote several commentaries on the Vedas, Upanishads and the Bhagavad Gita.VallabhacaryaDevelop the doctrine called Suddhadvaita which, literally meaning pure advaita .Rāmānuja (रामानुज)A Tamil theologian, philosopher, and scriptural exegete, Ramanuja was a leading expounder of expounder of Viśiṣṭādvaita (one of the classical interpretations of the Vedanta school of Hindu philosophy), in his writings.NayanmarsRefer to the 63 devotees (and 9 general devotees) of Lord Shiva.AlvarsVaishnava Saints. Tradition reckons 12 Alvars. They come from all walks of life and all strata of society and include in their ranks one woman.SaptarshisThe seers are mysterious beings related to the origin of both man and knowledge. Often represented as 'human' sages, they nevertheless are conceived as eternal powers, symbolizing the primordial energies responsible for all manifest creation. They are 'seers' by virtue of being able to see the divine law which governs all creation, and indeed sustains it.vedangaThere are texts which form part of vedic literature to explain the linguistic meanigs of Veda- they are called Vedangas. They are six in number Siksha (rules to govern the language or phonetics), Vyakaranam (grammar), Chandhas (meter), Niruktam (context or conclusive meaning), Jyotisham and Kalpam (rituals).Kaala VyavaharaHindu Metrics of Time.Ganitais the term used in Sanskrit for mathematics; is derived from the root ‘gana’, which means to count or to enumerate.The Sanskrit word yoga stems from the verbal root yuj meaning to yoke or to unite. Thus, in a spiritual context, yoga stands for training or unitive discipline. The Sanskrit literature contains numerous compound terms ending in -yoga. These stand for various yogic approaches or features of the path. The following is a descriptive list of forty such terms. Not all of these form full-fledged branches or types of Yoga, but they represent at least emphases in diverse contexts. All of them are instructive insofar as they demonstrate the vast scope of Hindu Yoga.Abhâva-YogaThe unitive discipline of nonbeing, meaning the higher yogic practice of immersion into the Self without objective support such as mantras; a concept found in the Purânas; cf. Bhâva-YogaAdhyâtma-YogaThe unitive discipline of the inner self; sometimes said to be the Yoga characteristic of the UpanishadsAgni-YogaThe unitive discipline of fire, causing the awakening of the serpent power (kundalinî-shakti) through the joint action of mind (manas) and life force (prâna)Ashtânga-YogaThe unitive discipline of the eight limbs, i.e., Râja-Yoga or Pâtanjala-YogaAsparsha-YogaThe unitive discipline of noncontact, which is the nondualist Yoga propounded by Gaudapâda in his Mândûkya-Kârikâ; cf. Sparsha-YogaBhakti-YogaThe unitive discipline of love/devotion, as expounded, for instance, in the Bhagavad-Gîtâ, the Bhâgavata-Purâna, and numerous other scriptures of Shaivism and VaishnavismBuddhi-YogaThe unitive discipline of the higher mind, first mentioned in the Bhagavad-GîtâDhyâna-YogaThe unitive discipline of meditationGhatastha-YogaThe unitive discipline of the pot (ghata), meaning the body; a synonym for Hatha-Yoga mentioned in the Gheranda-SamhitâGuru-YogaThe unitive discipline relative to one's teacherHatha-YogaThe unitive discipline of the force (meaning the serpent power or kundalinî-shakti); or forceful unitive disciplineHiranyagarbha-YogaThe unitive discipline of Hiranyagarbha ( Golden Germ ), who is considered the original founder of the Yoga traditionJapa-YogaThe unitive discipline of mantra recitationJnâna-YogaThe unitive discipline of discriminating wisdom, which is the approach of the UpanishadsKarma-YogaThe unitive discipline of self-transcending action, as first explicitly taught in the Bhagavad-GîtâKaula-YogaThe unitive discipline of the Kaula school, a Tantric YogaKriyâ-YogaThe unitive discipline of ritual; also the combined practice of asceticism (tapas), study (svâdhyâya), and worship of the Lord (îshvara-pranidhâna) mentioned in the Yoga-Sûtra of PatanjaliKundalinî-YogaThe unitive discipline of the serpent power (kundalinî-shakti), which is fundamental to the Tantric tradition, including Hatha-YogaLambikâ-YogaThe unitive discipline of the hanger, meaning the uvula, which is deliberately stimulated in this yogic approach to increase the flow of nectar (amrita) whose external aspect is salivaLaya-YogaThe unitive discipline of absorption or dissolution of the elements prior to their natural dissolution at deathMahâ-YogaThe great unitive discipline, a concept found in the Yoga-Shikhâ-Upanishad where it refers to the combined practice of Mantra-Yoga, Laya-Yoga, Hatha-Yoga, and Râja-YogaMantra-YogaThe unitive discipline of numinous sounds that help protect the mind, which has been a part of the Yoga tradition ever since Vedic timesNâda-YogaThe unitive discipline of the inner sound, a practice closely associated with original Hatha-YogaPancadashânga-YogaThe unitive discipline of the fifteen limbs (pancadasha-anga): (1) moral discipline (yama), (2) restraint (niyama), (3) renunciation (tyâga), (4) silence (mauna), (5) right place (desha), (6) right time (kâla), (7) posture (âsana), (8) root lock (mûla-bandha), (9) bodily equilibrium (deha-samya), (10) stability of vision (dhrik-sthiti), (11) control of the life force (prâna-samrodha), (12) sensory inhibition (pratyâhâra), (13) concentration (dhâranâ), (14) meditation upon the Self (âtma-dhyâna), and (15) ecstasy (samâdhi)Pâshupata-YogaThe unitive discipline of the Pâshupata sect, as expounded in some of the PurânasPâtanjala-YogaThe unitive discipline of Patanjali, better known as Râja-Yoga or Yoga-DarshanaPûrna-YogaThe unitive discipline of wholeness or integration, which is the name of Sri Aurobindo's YogaRâja-YogaThe royal unitive discipline, also called Pâtanjala-Yoga, Ashtânga-Yoga, or Râja-YogaSamâdhi-YogaThe unitive discipline of ecstasySâmkhya-YogaThe unitive discipline of insight, which is the name of certain liberation teachings and schools referred to in the MahâbhârataSamnyâsa-YogaThe unitive discipline of renunciation, which is contrasted against Karma-Yoga in the Bhagavad-GîtâSamputa-YogaThe unitive discipline of sexual congress (maithunâ) in Tantra-YogaSamrambha-YogaThe unitive discipline of hatred, as mentioned in the Vishnu-Purâna, which illustrates the profound yogic principle that one becomes what one constantly contemplates (even if charged with negative emotions)Saptânga-YogaThe unitive discipline of the seven limbs (sapta-anga), also known as Sapta-Sâdhana in the Gheranda-Samhitâ: (1) six purificatory practices (shat-karma), (2) posture (âsana), (3) seal (mudrâ), (4) sensory inhibition (pratyâhâra), (5) breath control (prânâyâma), (6) meditation (dhyâna), and (7) ecstasy (samâdhi)Shadanga-YogaThe unitive discipline of the six limbs (shad-anga), as expounded in the Maitrâyanîya-Upanishad: (1) breath control (prânâyâma), (2) sensory inhibition (pratyâhâra), (3) meditation (dhyâna), (4) concentration (dhâranâ), (5) examination (tarka), and (6) ecstasy (samâdhi)Siddha-YogaThe unitive discipline of the adepts, a concept found in some of the TantrasSparsha-YogaThe unitive discipline of contact; a Vedantic Yoga mentioned in the Shiva-Purâna, which combines mantra recitation with breath control; cf. Asparsha-YogaTantra-YogaThe unitive discipline of the Tantras, a kundalinî-based YogaTâraka-YogaThe unitive discipline of the deliverer (târaka); a medieval Yoga based on light phenomenaYantra-YogaThe unitive discipline of focusing the mind upon geometric representations (yantra) of the cosmos.Maha Shivaratri (Shiva Ratri)Celebrated on the new moon night in the month of Phalguna, this Hindu festival is dedicated to Lord Shiva.Rama NavamiThis nine-day Hindu festival, celebrated in the bright fortnight in the month of Chaitra, commemorates the birth of Shri Rama who was born to annihilate the demon King Ravana.Krishna JanmashtamiThis Hindu festival, which falls during the dark fortnight in the month of Bhadra, is celebrated to commemorate the birth of Krishna to annihilate Kansa. It is marked by fasts, prayers and the enactment of incidents from Krishna's childhood.Ganesha Chaturthi (Ganesha Utsava)Celebrated essentially in Maharashtra, this festival celebrates the birthday of Ganesha, the elephant-headed god who is the son of Shiva and Parvati.Vijaya Dashami (Dassera)Victory of Shri Rama over Ravana.NavaratriThis nine-day festival of the Hindus is celebrated in almost all parts of India in the month of Ashvina, and is marked by fasting and praying to different aspects of Devi.DiwaliThis is one of the oldest Hindu festivals occurring in the month of Kartik, which commemorates the return of Rama to Ayodhya after an exile of 14 years. It also marks the beginning of the New Year and is celebrated with the lighting of lamps.EkadashiHindu Vaishnavas observe Ekadashi (alternatively called 'Gyaars') by fasting on that day.Guru PurnimaThe day, also known as “Vyasa Purnima” is observed by devotees who offer pujas (worship) to their beloved Gurus.Hanuman JayantiIt is celebrated largely in North India to commemorate the birth of the monkey god, Hanuman, during Chaitra. It marks a symbolic acceptance of the human race's peaceful co-existence with nature and the worship of an animal.Lakshmi PujaLakshmi Puja is performed to propitiate Goddess Lakshmi and to thank her for the bestowal of her blessings on the humans.Saraswati PujaThe worship of Hindu goddess of learning, is observed on the Basant Panchami day annually.Durga PujaThis nine-day festival of the Hindus is celebrated in the month of Ashvina in Bengal. It marks the victory of Goddess Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura after a long battle, signifying the victory of good over evil.Kumbh MelaPilgrimage every 12 years to four cities in India.HoliThis colorful festival of the Hindus, celebrated on the full moon day in the month of Phalguna, heralds the advent of spring.Raksā BandhanaRenewing bonds between brothers and sisters.Gayatri Japa DayThe Gayatri Japa Day is one such very holy and glorious day intended to remind all of the greatest and most glorious of all Mantras, the sacred Gayatri Mantra.ThaipusamHindu festival celebrated mostly by the Tamil community on the full moon in the Tamil month of Thai.Makara Shankranti or PongalSALUTATIONS and adorations to the Supreme Lord, the primordial power that divided the year into the four seasons. Salutations to Surya, the Sun-God, who on this great day embarks on his northward journey.Gita JayantiTHE GITA Jayanti, or the birthday of the Bhagavad Gita, is celebrated throughout India by all the admirers and lovers of this most sacred scripture on the eleventh day (Ekadashi) of the bright half of the month of Margaseersha (December-January), according to the Hindu almanac.Kartigai DeepamON THE full moon day of the month of Kartigai (November-December) which falls on the ascension of the Kritigai star, the Hindus celebrate the Kartigai Deepam.Chaitra PurnimaThe Hindu scriptures prescribe elaborate worship of the Chitra Guptas on this day.AvasthasThe most comprehensive study of the Science of Consciousness. It expounds the various levels of consciousness, states of consciousness, the nature of consciousness at each level, the nature of Truth at each level of consciousness and methods to attain those levels.SharirasThe vehicle of consciousness with which one passes from life to life.Yoga SutrasThe Yoga Sutra of Patanjali.LokasThe various planes of existence.VyuhasStages of Emanation of the Universe.Vedic Time SystemIn the Vedic Time System, kala (Time) is not a linear, single-directional movement, like an arrow speeding from past to future. The idea of Time itself was quite advanced in Hindu Heritage.Srishti and PralayaCreation of the Universe the cosmos follows one cycle within a framework of cycles. It may have been created and reach an end, but it represents only one turn in the perpetual wheel of time , which revolves infinitely through successive cycles of creation and destruction.Hindu CosmologyHindu Cosmology upholds the idea that creation is timeless, having no beginning in time. Each creation is preceded by dissolution and each dissolution is followed by creation.PanchangaThe Hindu Almanac provides vital information about astrological factors, planets and stars aspects of our subtle environment which are unseen but strongly felt. It is far more complex than the simple Gregorian calendar normally used in the West and far more useful.OM, AUMThe most sacred single syllable in the entire literature of Hinduism is OM. This word is constantly on the lips of devout Hindus from the cradle to the grave. It stands for Brahman, both as personal and impersonal God.swastikaAn ancient solar sign considered to invoke auspiciousness.dipaLamp symbol of light.padmaLotus – symbol of purity/transcendence. Growing out of the mud, it is beautiful, and though resting on water, it does not touch it.trishulTrident – the symbol of Shiva; often carried by Saiva sannyasis (renunciates).natarajThe dance of Shiva represents the constant biodance of life creation, maintenance and transformation and indicates the perfect balance between life and death.prasadaliterally means mercy, and refers to anything that has been sanctified through offering to God (e.g. flowers). It specifically refers to food offered to God.RudrakshasRudrakshas beads have been worn by Hindu Sadhus (holymen) and Gurus since the last 5000 years. Hindus believe that rudraksha beads will bless the wearer with with health, wealth, intelligence, luck, divinity, power, prosperity, happiness, spirituality and anything else you desire in life. It has the power and ability to bless the wearer/worshipper with almost everything he/she desires.DevatasThe Gods.DasavatharamThe prime ten avathara (incarnations) of Shri Maha Vishnu. Sriman Narayana out of compassion and to save HIS bhakthas from asuras have incarnated in this material world time and again.India is renowned for its rich Cultural Heritage. Various Artforms like Music, Dance, Painting, Sculpture, Architecture other Allied Arts have thrived in this country for Centuries now needless to say, have reached high amounts of Sophistication. The role of Art as an integral part of life was recognized by Indians very early. The ancient scholars have divided, identified natured as many as 14 techniques or lesson forms and 64 art forms.sanskritiThe word for culture and heritage is Sanskriti, refinement .NamaskarWhen Hindus meet others they greet them with Namaskar or Namaste .natyaClassical Indian dance comprises three aspects, Nritta, Nritya and Natya. Eight Indian dance styles: 1. Bharatanatyam (Tamil Classical Dance), 2. Odissi (Orissa Classical dance), 3. Kuchipudi (Telugu Classical dance), 4. Manipuri (Manipur Classical Dance), 5. Mohiniaattam (Kerala Classical Dance, 6. Sattriya (Asamese Classical Dance), 7. Kathakali (Malayalam Classical Dance) and 8. Kathak (North Indian Classical Dance).sangeetMusicchatuh shashti kalaSixty-four arts — a classical curriculum of sacred sciences, studies, arts and skills of cultured living listed in various Hindu shastras.yagnaA yajna is a fire ceremony. The tradition of yajna is well known in India, as it is the most ancient of Vedic rituals, which Indians have carried on till the present day.saṃskāraṃThe Samskāra are a series of Sacraments, Sacrifices and Rituals that serve as rites of passage and mark the various stages of the Human life and to signify entry to a particular Ashrama.vivahamMarriage. An elaborate and joyous ceremony performed in presence of God and Gods, in which the homa fire is central.Holy FestivalsIn the Vedic/Hindu tradition, there are many festivals that are observed throughout the year. There are major festivals and numerous minor ones, as well as those that are celebrated on a local or regional basis, which are celebrated differently according to the location, or even named differently.tilakHindus apply distinctive marks on their forehead.pujaHindu worship (puja) involves images of God/Goddesses (murtis), prayers and chanting of mantras and use of diagrams of the universe known as yantras.surya namaskarSun Salutation is one of the most popular and well-known practices of hatha yoga today. It has sprung forth out of one of the oldest forms of worship known to man the adoration and homage paid to that core of our natural existence that is the sun.asanaspostures.sevaservice.Great Hindu SagesGreat Hindu SagesGreat IndiansBiographies of great men and women from Bharat (India).Manu Smriti (मनुस्मृति)The Manu Smriti translated Codes of Manu is regarded as an important work of Hindu law and ancient Indian society.Known as the ‘pranava mantra,’ the source of all mantras.Gāyatrī MantraThe Gayatri Mantra is the universal prayer enshrined in the Vedas, the most ancient Scriptures of Man and the most powerful of Sanskrit mantras. It is believed that chanting it can bring happiness in life and rescue the chanter from adversity.Guru MantraGuru Mantra.Shanti MantraThe Mantra of Peace.Bija MantraThe concept of mantra as mystical sounds was carried to its logical conclusion in ‘seed’ (Sanskrit bija) mantras that have no precise meaning but instead are thought to carry within their sounds connections to various spiritual principles and currents.Vidya MantraVidya Mantra.Hare Krishna MantraHare Krishna Maha Mantra.108 Names108 Names Of Deities.pujaThe ceremonial act of showing reverence to a God or Goddess through invocation, prayer, song, and ritual. An essential aspect of Puja is communion with the Divine.tirthayatraA pilgrimage to sacred sites involving the performance of pujas and other religious activities.PrarthanaPrarthana in other words means prayer or worship.BhajanHindu Devotional Music.mantraSacred words or syllables used repeatedly in religious and ceremonial rituals.JapaIt involves repetition of a mantra over and over again, in cycles of auspicious numbers (in multiples of three), the most popular being 108.AartiesAarties.Saurya ManvantaraSaurya Manvantara or Saurya Pralaya (Sanskrit: ) from surya (sun) + pralaya (dissolution) manvantara manifestation. The dissolution, or manifestation, of the solar system; frequently termed a mahapralaya or mahamanvantara.dharmaDharma (Sanskrit: way of righteousness. From dhri, to sustain; carry, hold. ) refers to the underlying order in nature and human life and behavior considered to be in accord with that order. The word Dharma is used to mean nyaya (Justice), what is right in a given circumstance, moral values of life, pious obligations of individuals, righteous conduct in every sphere of activity, being helpful to other living beings, giving charity to individuals in need of it or to a public cause or alms to the needy, natural qualities or characteristics or properties of living beings and things, duty and law as also constitutional law. Dharma is the law that maintains the cosmic order as well as the individual and social order. Dharma sustains human life in harmony with nature. When we follow dharma, we are in conformity with the law that sustains the universe.mantramantra (Sanskrit; Devanāgarī: मन्त्र) or mantram, consists of the root man- to think (also in manas mind ) and the suffix -tra meaning, tool or protection hence a literal translation would be instrument of thought . They are primarily used as spiritual conduits, words or vibrations that instill one-pointed concentration in the devotee.kali yugakali yuga (Sanskrit: कलियुग, age of Kali age of vice ) is one of the four stages of development that the world goes through as part of the cycle of Yugas, the others being satya-yuga, treta-yuga and dwapara-yuga. The human civilization degenerates spiritually throughout the Kali Yuga it is mostly referred to as the Dark Age, mainly because people are the furthest possible from Divinity. During the Kali Yuga righteousness has diminished by three-quarters, and the age is one of devolution, culminating in the destruction of the world prior to a new creation and another Krita Yuga in an endless cycle of time.samsarisamsari (Sanskrit: One in samsara; wanderer. ) the atman (Self) during transmigration, immersed in or attached to mundane existence, hence not striving for moksha (liberation). A samsari is someone who is not on the path. kalpakalpa (Sanskrit: period of time; or a cycle of time. ) from a verb-root klrip (to be in order) a sequence of one thousand mahayugas is called a kalpa which is one day in the life of Brahma. The universe exists during Brahma's day and is dissolved during Brahma's night.NavaratriThis nine-day festival of the Hindus is celebrated in almost all parts of India in the month of Ashvina, and is marked by fasting and praying to different aspects of Devi.devadeva (Sanskrit: Lord; God ) derived from the root div, to shine or become bright . A deva is therefore a “shining one.” The word is used to refer to God, or any exalted personality. The female version is devî.brahmanabrahmana a member of the traditional priestly class. The brahmana was the first of the four varnas in the social system called varnasrama dharma. Literally the word means “in relation to brahman.” A brahmana is one who follows the ways of Brahman. Traditionally a brahmana, often written as brahmin, filled the role of priest, teacher and thinker.panchangaThe name for the Hindu calendar is a panchanga. In Sanskrit the word panchanga is made of two parts: pancha and anga. Pancha means five and anga means a part. The panchanga is, therefore, something made of five parts. As a calendar, these five parts are the lunar day (tithi), day of the week (vara), lunar mansion (naksatra), luni-solar day (yoga) and half lunar day (karana). Along with other information, a panchanga especially records the movements of the sun and the moon. Traditionally no religious festival, family event, or even a civic affair is performed without first consulting a panchanga to know the favorable movements of these celestial bodies.Lakshmi PujaLakshmi Puja is performed to propitiate Goddess Lakshmi and to thank her for the bestowal of her blessings on the humans.mokshamoksha (Sanskrit: मोक्ष mokṣa, liberation ) or mukti (Sanskrit: मुक्ति, release ) is liberation from samsara, the cycle of death and rebirth or reincarnation and all of the suffering and limitation of worldly existence. It is a state of absolute freedom, peace and bliss, attained through Self-Realization. This is the supreme goal of human endeavor, the other three being, dharma (righteousness), artha (wealth and power) and kama (sense-pleasure). It is seen as a transcendence of phenomenal being, a state of higher consciousness, in which matter, energy, time, space, karma (causation) and the other features of empirical reality are understood as maya.TruthTruth When capitalized, ultimate knowing which is unchanging . Lower case (truth): correctness , according with fact , honesty , integrity virtue . See: Satya.kama manaskama manas (Sanskrit: from kāma, desire + manas, mind ). The lower part of manas in conjunction with kāma is attracted below to material things, and in human life is commonly called the personal ego. This personal ego is mortal, although the monad of which it is the expression lasts through the ages.sthula sharirasthula sharira is the physical body (sthula, coarse or bulky), the vehicle of all the other principles during life and the means by which man is able to function on earth. The physical body, sthula sharira comprises annamaya-kosha, the material substance and pranamaya-kosha.YogaYoga (Sanskrit: योग, union of atman (individual Self) with paramåtma (Universal Self) ) derived from the root yuj, to join, to unite, to attach spiritual practices performed primarily as a means to enlightenment (or bodhi). Traditionally, Karma Yoga (through action), Bhakti Yoga (through devotion), jñåna-yoga (through knowledge), and dhyåna-yoga (through meditation) are considered the four main yogas. In the West, yoga has become associated with the asanas (postures) of Hatha Yoga, popular as fitness exercises. Yoga has many other meaning. For example, in astronomy and astrology it refers to a conjunction (union) of planets.slokaA hymn or verse of praise, a stanza or verse in general, a stanza in anustubh metre (the most common metre used in Sanskrit consisting for 4 lines of 8 syllables), fame.kalpakalpa (Sanskrit: period of time; or a cycle of time. ) from a verb-root klrip (to be in order) a sequence of one thousand mahayugas is called a kalpa which is one day in the life of Brahma. The universe exists during Brahma's day and is dissolved during Brahma's night.guruguru (Sanskrit: गुरु) from gu (darkness), and ru (light) is a person who is regarded as having great knowledge, wisdom and authority in a certain area, and uses it to guide others. Literally a preceptor who shows others knowledge (light) and destroys ignorance (darkness). It is also used for teacher or guide in the religious or sense. The guru is seen as a sacred conduit for wisdom and guidance, and finding a satguru (True Guru) is often held to be a prerequisite for attaining self-realization.Meru(Sanskrit: मेरु ) : An ancient mountain and mythical centre of the universe on which was situated the city of Brahma. Becoming jealous of Meru, the Vindya began to grow very high obstructing the sun, the moon and the planets. Agastya whom the Vindhya mountain respected asked it to stop growing until he crossed it on his way to the south and returned to the north again. But he did not return at all, having settled in the south.NamasteNamaste is made of two words, namas and te. Namas comes from the verbal root nam which means to bow and so namas is a bow or salutation. “Te” means, to you. And so namaste literally means, bowing to you . There is a variation of this in the form “namaskara.” The Sanskrit word “kara” means, doing. So namaskara literally means, doing salutations.SukshmalokaThe subtle world, or Antarloka, spanning the spectrum of consciousness from the vishuddha chakra in the throat to the patala chakra in the soles of the feet. The astral plane includes: 1) the higher astral plane, maharloka, plane of balance; 2) mid-astral plane, svarloka, celestial plane; 3) lower astral plane, bhuvarloka, plane of atmosphere, a counterpart or subtle duplicate of the physical plane (consisting of the pitriloka and pretaloka); and 4) the sub-astral plane, naraka, consisting of seven hellish realms corresponding to the seven chakras below the base of the spine. In the astral plane, the soul is enshrouded in the astral body, called sukshma-sharira. See also: sukshma-sharira, loka, naraka, triloka.mantramantra (Sanskrit; Devanāgarī: मन्त्र) or mantram, consists of the root man- to think (also in manas mind ) and the suffix -tra meaning, tool or protection hence a literal translation would be instrument of thought . They are primarily used as spiritual conduits, words or vibrations that instill one-pointed concentration in the devotee.brahmavidyaBrahmavidya or Paravidya (metaphysics metaknowledge or higher knowledge) is the vehicle for attaining Moksha in the path known as Jnana Yoga and Yoga sastra (the means to attain the same) is the practical discipline needed to attain Brahmavidya.History of BharatIndia's history essentially includes all of the Indian subcontinent, including the more recent nations of Pakistan founded in 1947 after the partition of India, and Bangladesh founded in 1971.Hindu TimelineHuman civilizations in India are some of the earliest ever.DwarakaDwaraka is one of the holiest city in ancient India and one of the 4 main dhams along with Badrinath, Puri, Rameshwaram. Dwaraka was a city-state extending upto Bet Dwaraka (Sankhodhara) in the north and Okhamadhi in the south.AyodhyaAyodhya is an ancient city, is one of the seven sacred cities of the Hindus and is the birth Place of Lord Rama.Archeological FindingsLatest archeological findings on India.History of Mathematics in IndiaIn India a decimal system was already in place during the Harappan period, as indicated by an analysis of Harappan weights and measures.Vedic History of AfghanistanThe Kandhar city in Afghanistan is the current mispronunciation of the Sanskrit term “Gandhar” which was the capital of a flourishing ancient Hindu kingdom. Gandhari (wife of King Dhritarastra) belonged to the region.The Indus-Sarasvati CivilizationThe largest civilization in the ancient world developed in the Indus Valley of India over 5,000 years ago.History of GanitGanita (Mathematics) has been considered a very important subject since ancient times. We find very elaborate proof of this in Veda (which were compiled around 6000 BC).Ancient Indian CitiesThe history of ancient cities and civilizations in India is of the ages or eras in the evolution of Indian history generally, commencing from pre-historic era to the modern India.Kingdoms of Ancient IndiaThe historical context of the Ancient Kingdoms of Bharat.Taj MahalKnown as one of the Seven Wonders of the world, this magnificent seven storied temple mansion comprises of majestic garden, interior water well, 400 to 500 rooms, 22 apartments, archaded verendahs, terraces, multi stored towers, guest rooms, stables, music house, drum chamber, cowsheds, and guard rooms.Dharma and ReligionOur failure to be conscious of this difference has resulted in the creation of several crucial problems that we, as humans, have faced in this century and continue to face even today.Vedic and Abrahamic ThoughtThere are two major thought systems or worldview in this world: Vedic and Abrahamic.Common Misconceptions about HinduismGeneral social, philosophical and religious misconceptions about Hinduism.Academic HinduphobiaIndian studies in the West (especially the US and the UK) are overwhelmingly hostile to their object of study. An unbroken straight line can be drawn, from this burgeoning British hostility towards Hindus over a hundred years ago to the constant fabrications of British journalists and editors in the print media and television about India today.HindutvaRepresents the resistance movement against the cultural, religious and economic domination of India by Western powers.Adharmic DoctrinesAbsence of Dharma from the Consciousness of the Western MindColonial-Marxist HistoriographyHistory books in India still largely teach the British view of India from the colonial era and have not changed much since the independence of the country over fifty years ago.The Myth of the Aryan Invasion TheoryToday, this theory is being challenged more and more by new discoveries, both archaeological and linguistic.Darwin's TheoryDarwin's Theory of Evolution DebunkedChristianismCovert methods which the Christian missionaries employ to harangue and/or hoodwink the unsuspecting Hindus.IslamismIndicates the state of Muslims who takes pride in the purity of its Arab, Persian or Turkish descent and do not refer to Indian Muslims in the general context.MacaulayismThe creation of new history of India that was fabricated to ensure that present and future generations of mentally colonized people would believe in the inherent inferiority of their own traditional knowledge and in the superiority of the colonizers' 'modern' knowledge.TemplesTemples in India were regarded as sacred places or vital links that can connect finite man to infinite God. The temples are built on the principles of vastushastra. The vastushastras describe temple as a symbolic, miniature representation of the cosmos.PilgrimagesPilgrimages.OrganizationsOrganizations, Foundations, Groups and Councils.CommunitiesCommunities.Study CentersStudy Centers, Institutions and Universities.ArticlesArticles and stories on contemporary events, issues, events, inspiration, news and periodicals relating to Hindus and India.BooksAn abundance of both contemporary and ancient books on Hinduism.eBooksLinks to online version and downloadable version of both contemporary and ancient books on Hinduism.Online VideosVideos relating to Hinduism, yoga, history, biographies, documentaries and contemporary issues.AudiosStreaming audio contents.Files and resources that can be downloaded online.Glossary of Hindu TermsGlossary of Hindu Terms Click here to toggle editing of individual sections of the page (if possible). Watch headings for an edit link when available. 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