Krishna Janmashtami celebrates the birth of one of the most powerful incarnations of Vishnu, who we consider a leader, hero, protector, philosopher, teacher and friend all rolled into one. Krishna took birth at midnight on the ashtami or the 8th day of the Krishnapaksha or dark fortnight in the Hindu month of Shravan (August-September). This
Indians greet each other with Namaste. The two palms are placed together in front of the chest and the head bows whilst saying the word Namaste. This greeting is for all – people younger than us, of our own age, those older than friends, even strangers and us. There are five forms of formal traditional
Om is one of the most chanted sound symbols in India. It has a profound effect on the body and mind of the one who chants and also on the surroundings. Most mantras and vedic prayers start with Om. All auspicious actions begin with this powerful word. It is even used as a greeting –
The slight blinking flames in the puja area of the house is a sight to behold. In every Hindu household, a lamp is lit daily in front of the family deity. In some houses it is lit at dawn, in some, twice a day – at dawn and dusk – and in a few it