#shankara india

[shankaraindia]

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[talonabraxas]

5 Shiva Mantras, Quotes, Hymns for Pleasing Shiva Lord Shiva is known as the Lord of Lords and even other Hindu Gods try to plead Lord Shiva with mantras. Lord Shiva is worshiped in two forms – The Shiva Lingam and the statue form.

All across India, and in many Hindu communities around the world, nightlong vigils are observed in honor of Lord Shiva. Devotees offer abhisheka, or a ritual bath, to bronze and stone sculptures of Lord Shiva in his many forms. Among the most popular of the forms that receive worship on this day are the Shiva Linga, Lord Dakshinamurthy, Lord Bhairava, and Lord Somaskanda.

Since Shiva is easily pleased, offering milk, water, leaves, flowers, clothes, fruits, or even an oil lamp is commendable. Simply meditating upon the form of Shiva with a pure mind and utmost devotion is considered the highest form of worship. The sage Adi Shankara wrote Shiva Manasa Puja as an affirmation of this notion. In this beautifully composed hymn, Shankara performs the Puja of Lord Shiva with vivid and devout imagination. Reciting this hymn on the night of Maha Shivarathri is the best way to begin or end the night’s festivities!

Here, let us see some of the mantras (and their meaning), used by great sages, as well as common people to get the blessings of the Lord.

[concupiscience]

In the 14th century text Madhaviya Shankara Vijayam, there is a test, unique to Sharada Peeth, known as the Sarvajna Peetham, or Throne of Omniscience. These were four thrones, each representing an entrance of the temple corresponding to one of the points of the compass, which only a learned man from that direction could symbolically open. Adi Shankara, being from South India, took it upon himself to pass this challenge, because although the other doors had been opened, no one from the south of Kashmir had yet been successful. He was said to be welcomed by the common people, but challenged by the scholars of the region. As he approached the southern door, he was stopped by various learned men from the Nyaya school of philosophy, Buddhists, Svetambar Jains, and the followers of Jaimini. Engaging with them, he managed to persuade all of them of his proficiency in philosophy, and they stood aside to let him open the entrance. Finally, as he was about to ascend the throne, he heard the voice of the goddess Sharada challenging him. The voice said that omniscience was not enough if one was impure, and that Shankara, who lived in the palace of King Amaruka, could not be pure. Shankara replied that his body had never committed a sin, and the sins committed by another could not blemish him. The goddess Sharada accepted his explanation and permitted him to ascend.

[buzz-london]

Badrinath is a small town and one of the holiest places for pilgrimage for Hindus. One of the most important ancient temples in India, it is situated on the banks ofthe River Alakananda in the Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. It is situated at an elevation of 10, 170 feet and devotees usually walk on foot to reach the famous Badrinath temple. It is believed that the saint Adi Shankara found an idol of Lord Vishnu made of Salagrama stone in the Alakananda River. He initially enshrined the idol near the hot springs of Tapt Kund, but later on, the King of Garhwal re-installed the deity in the Badrinath Temple. 

[shivaom99]

🌿🌿🌼🌿🟡🌿🌼🌿🌿 Incredible BEAUTIFUL GODDESS MEENAKSHI 🌺🌺from @rsfinearts_mandalas • Goddess Meenakshi Being an avatar of goddess Parvathi, Meenakshi is considered to be the primary deity of the famous city Madurai, located in Tamilnadu at the southern part of India. She is also known with the names ANGAYARKANNI, TADADAKAI for specific reasons behind it and praised as SHRI VIDYA by Adi Shankara. Her divine consort SUNDARESWARAR (CHOKKANATHAR) is a form of lord shiva. The meaning of the name in tamil-sanskrit denotes “fish-eyed” in which meena (fish) and akshi (eyed),because of the long and slender structure of her eye which is supposed to protect and end all the sorrows,sufferings and miseries when once gazed into them. In another theory the name denotes the meaning “rule of the fish” in which meena (fish) and aatchi (rule).   ~wiki OM UNNITHRIYAI VIDHMAHE  SUNTHAPA PRIYAAYAI DHEEMAHI THANNO MEENA DEVI PRACHODAYA 📲Check out My Website to buy Artworks 🔗Link in the Bio 🔝 ❌Do Not Copy without permission🚫 ❇️If you are recreating my art then please give credits❇️ 👩🏻‍🎨Drawing done on iPad pro using Apple Pencil ✏️ and #procreate app ❤️Hope you guys like it 😍 Please share your views ❤️❤️ • • 👩🏻‍🎨 #rsfinearts_mandalas 👩🏻‍🎨 • • • #ilovesharingmandala #mandalaslovers #_mandala_drawings #zenartfeatures #potpourriofartists #blackzentangle #creative_art_world #zentanglekiwi #zendoodleart_feature #mahalakshmi #mandalaplanet #beautiful_mandalas #rsfinearts #ashtalakshmiart #mandala_sharing_ #hallofmandalas #mandalahead #art_Whisper #loveformandala #tag_mandala #ashtalakshmidrawing #mandalas_forum #mandalasharingpage #mandalaartindonesia #meenakshiammantemple #meenakshiamman #meenakshi #meenakshiamma https://www.instagram.com/p/CqChrYeuMiy/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[sabakos]

I think part of the challenge of "comparative" philosophy is that there are two competing definitions for "philosophy" and that both are ultimately insufficient - each one generates uncomfortable or incompatible conclusions if you mistake them for each other and so you need to be careful to always distinguish them and clarify which one you're thinking about.

Definition 1 is "everything that follows from the tradition developed in Ancient Greece, which is called philosophy" A clear advantage to this definition is that it's easy to apply - If you could ask most or all people who fit this definition whether they were "philosophers" they would say "yes" because "philosophy" is the word they used to describe their activities. For practical purposes, this definition includes all of what's typically called "Western" philosophy along with philosophers from the Islamic world, and any more contemporary schools from other non-western cultures that have incorporated these traditions into their own work.

Definition 2 is "anything that can be related to the tradition developed in Ancient Greece, which is called philosophy" This definition is considerably more expansive, and therefore harder to apply consistently, but it has the benefit of including important thinkers like Adi Shankara or Nagarjuna who may or may not have actually been influenced by the Greeks but can easily be related to them, as well as thinkers who certainly were not influenced by the Greeks but still independently derived very similar ideas, such as Zhuangzi or Mozi. This also has the benefit of including other thinkers in the Ancient Near East or Ancient India who predate the Greeks, and often even may have influenced what came to be called "philosophy" in Ancient Greece.

There's an obvious motivation here to avoid chauvinism - by the first definition, this thing that we call philosophy and that many people place a lot of value on ends up looking like a "Western" invention, and that can make it look like any attempts to assert the importance of philosophy are attempts to assert the superiority of "the West." But there are certainly elements of what the first definition refers to that are present in non-Western cultures, and it strengthens the legitimacy of philosophy as a discipline if it is seen as a universal activity that all humans do, which also allows us to extend our understanding of it further, by investigating the traditions of e.g. sub-Saharan African and indigenous American cultures for philosophical themes, which can also be a means for understanding them better.

But this approach can lead us directly back to the chauvinism that we're trying to avoid if we become too enthusiastic about the more expansive definition of philosophy; our lens for understanding other cultures can also end up distorting them - despite our best efforts, whatever concepts of "philosophy" we have all ultimately do still relate back to the Ancient Greeks, they have been both massively influential and very well preserved and defined the scope and rules of engagement for millennia, they will crowd out the conversation if we let them. And so if we want to expand the definition of philosophy to mean "something all humans do" we need to simultaneously acknowledge how something unfamiliar that looks like philosophy relates to the other components of its own culture, in addition to how it relates to what we currently consider philosophy. Otherwise, we will end up missing important details for understanding those cultures and end up erroneously concluding that philosophy, the "thing all humans do" is something miraculously identical to... Ancient Greek philosophy.

I strongly believe this is a tractable problem, however. It's axiomatic to me that any comparative work that aims at understanding other cultures provides some value, even shoddy scholarship that falls victim to the pitfalls I've outlined here can still be useful to more cautious interpreters who come later. So I personally have no time for people who talk about how indigenous or other non-Western "ontologies" are fundamentally incommensurable with Western ones. I suspect most of those people are only interested in shouting, and it seems that beyond what I've just summarized in the preceding sentence they have little or nothing to say. Fortunately, despite their loudest attempts, many of their contemporaries and colleagues who are the targets of this ire are doing important work, and those who proceed more carefully seem like they will uncover both parallels and differences to what we consider philosophy that tell us quite a lot about those other cultures and also additionally enrich our understanding of philosophy and humanity as a whole.

[adamwatchesmovies]

Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom (1984)

They don’t make movies like Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom anymore - for multiple reasons. Certain aspects of this film will take modern movie-goers aback. You can focus on the dubious cultural depictions, violence and gross-out humor or you can divert your attention to what works: the never-ending tension, action scenes & set pieces, cinematography and the ever-charismatic lead.

In this prequel to Raiders of the Lost Ark, Indiana Jones (Harrison Ford) narrowly escapes from crime boss Lao Che (Roy Chiao) with his eleven-year-old sidekick Short Round (Ke Huy Quan) and nightclub singer Willie Scott (Kate Capshaw). Unfortunately, they soon find themselves stranded in northern India, where many children have gone missing and a sacred stone - one of the five fabled Shankara stones - has been stolen. Their quest to unravel the mystery brings our heroes to an ancient Thuggee cult who practice dark magic and ritualistic human sacrifices.

In a way, this picture is much lighter than Raiders. We’re not dealing with Nazis. Indy and his little buddy are going up against India’s equivalent of devil-worshippers but the villains are firmly planted in the realm of fantasy. There are many jokes as the boys playfully bicker and roll their eyes at Willie, who has no business being on this adventure but wound up alongside them. Over and over, she’s screaming at the bugs, skeletons, traps and dangers they encounter. The duo would be much better off without the dumb blonde… but abandoning her would be irresponsible. She’s nothing like Karen Allen's Marion and the film makes that clear. If Willie's going to complain about being away from the city, let's give her a real reason to - which means lots and lots of ewwww moments. This is where people might raise an eyebrow. There’s a famous banquet scene where the most stomach-churning foods are served. You may interpret it as a) an implication that all Indians are barbarians that eat eyeballs and snakes (although the good villagers we meet early-on definitely do not) b) an elaborate gag that may or may not resonate with you (humor is subjective, after all) or c) hints that something at this palace is amiss…

Despite the initial tone, this is an intense movie. There are torture and grisly human sacrifices, children are kidnapped/enslaved, people are explicitly killed - often in gruesome manners. The tone is far too intense to be rated PG but it was. The PG-13 rating was only introduced after the MPAA got similar complaints from Gremlins just one month later.

This film isn't as mature as its "successor" and it doesn't feel as polished either, though the filmmaking is still excellent. Once Indy and the gang realize the danger they've stumbled upon, the tension never lets up. Every escape is merely a brief reprieve. A new peril rolls around the next corner, ready to flatten them. It's fast-paced and exciting. Along the way, you also get excellent cinematography and camerawork. The shots which contrast Short Round to his big buddy are terrific. Through quick cuts and parallel actions, the camera says more than words ever could. It's a roller-coaster ride - sometimes literally. You'll be left breathless and maybe even overwhelmed. Is the movie for kids? maybe, maybe not. It's somewhere in between.

Often violent & gruesome and lacking some of the sophistication of Raiders of the Lost Ark, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom is a disappointment... but only for this franchise. As a film on its own, or as a "first entry" in a series, it would make you go "wow!" Dated elements aside, it's exciting, memorable and fun. (On Blu-ray, May 22, 2020)

[chardham-tour]

Why Visit Chopta: A Himalayan Gem for All Travelers

Chopta, often referred to as the "Mini Switzerland" of India, offers an unparalleled experience for every kind of traveler. Located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, this picturesque region is nestled in the heart of the Himalayas at an elevation of about 2,500 meters above sea level. Surrounded by a breathtaking panorama of snow-clad peaks such as Trishul, Nanda Devi, and Chaukhamba, Chopta is a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and spiritual travelers alike. The pristine beauty and serene environment make it a perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

1. Stunning Natural Beauty

Chopta's natural landscape is nothing short of mesmerizing. The region is a part of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary and is blessed with lush green meadows, dense forests, and stunning Himalayan views. The meadows, known for their vibrant wildflowers, are complemented by the dense forests of pine, deodar, and rhododendron. The backdrop of the majestic Himalayan peaks, including the famous Trishul and Chaukhamba ranges, offers an awe-inspiring setting for any nature lover. The scenic beauty of Chopta, especially during the early morning or late evening, provides a perfect canvas for photographers and nature enthusiasts. Whether you're here for a tranquil retreat or to capture some stunning landscape shots, Chopta’s vistas are sure to leave a lasting impression.

2. Adventure and Trekking Opportunities

Chopta is renowned for its adventure and trekking opportunities. The region serves as the gateway to some of the most exhilarating treks in the Indian Himalayas. Among the most popular treks is the Chopta Chandrashila Trek. This trek offers trekkers the chance to explore the stunning landscapes and reach Chandrashila Peak for panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan ranges. The trek to Chandrashila is relatively accessible yet challenging enough to offer a sense of accomplishment. The trek is often included in various Chopta Tour Packages, catering to those seeking adventure.

The Chopta Tungnath Trek is another highlight, taking you to the highest Shiva temple in the world, situated at approximately 3,500 meters above sea level. The trek is known for its breathtaking mountain scenery and spiritual significance. Despite the steep ascent, the trek is manageable and offers rewarding views from the top. Many travelers opt for a Chopta Trip Package that includes both the Chandrashila and Tungnath treks, making it a comprehensive adventure experience.

For those looking for a shorter trek, the Deoria Tal trek is highly recommended. This trek leads you to the beautiful Deoria Tal lake, surrounded by dense forests and offering stunning reflections of the surrounding peaks. It’s an easy trek, suitable for families and beginners. Other trekking options in Chopta include the treks to the Panch Kedars, the scenic Har ki Dun Valley, Valley of Flowers, and Dayara Bugyal treks, each offering unique experiences and spectacular views.

3. Spiritual and Cultural Significance

Chopta holds immense spiritual and cultural significance. The region is surrounded by the revered Panch Kedars, a group of five ancient temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. These temples are considered some of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in Hinduism. The Panch Kedars include Kedarnath, Madhyamaheshwar, Rudranath, Kalpeshwar, and Tungnath. According to legend, these temples were established by the Pandavas, the heroes of the Mahabharata, as a means of seeking redemption for the sins committed during the great war.

The temples in Chopta, especially the Tungnath Temple, are integral to the Panch Kedar pilgrimage circuit. Pilgrims often start their journey at Pashupatinath Temple in Nepal and then visit the Panch Kedars in a specific order. Adi Shankara, a revered Hindu philosopher, is believed to have renovated these temples about 12 centuries ago. Visiting these sacred sites provides a profound spiritual experience, and many Chopta Tour Packages include visits to these temples as part of their itinerary.

Additionally, Chopta is associated with various legends, such as the story of the Pandavas and Lord Shiva, adding a layer of mystique and cultural depth to the region. It is also believed that Lord Rama meditated at the Chandrashila peak, and Ravana performed penance at Ravana Shila near Chandrashila. These stories enhance the spiritual allure of Chopta and attract those seeking spiritual enlightenment and historical connection.

4. Unspoiled and Tranquil Environment

One of the major attractions of Chopta is its relatively untouched and tranquil environment. Unlike more commercialized hill stations, Chopta remains largely unspoiled by mass tourism. This lack of commercialization ensures a more authentic and serene experience, allowing visitors to connect with nature and themselves. The absence of large-scale tourism development means that visitors can enjoy a peaceful retreat amidst rolling meadows, dense forests, and pristine surroundings.

For those seeking solitude and tranquility, Chopta offers a respite from the hectic pace of modern life. The region’s natural beauty and peaceful ambiance provide an ideal setting for relaxation, meditation, and unwinding. Whether you’re looking to escape the noise of the city or simply want to immerse yourself in nature, Chopta’s serene environment promises a rejuvenating experience.

5. Rich Biodiversity

Chopta is a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. As part of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, the region is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The forests of Chopta are inhabited by various species of birds, including the Himalayan Monal, which is the state bird of Uttarakhand. The rich biodiversity of the region also includes a variety of animals and plant species, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers.

The dense forests and high-altitude meadows of Chopta provide ideal habitats for various wildlife species. The region’s flora includes oak, rhododendron, and deodar trees, which contribute to its lush and vibrant landscape. Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting numerous bird species, while nature lovers can explore the diverse plant life that thrives in this pristine environment.

6. Ideal for Photography

Chopta’s stunning landscapes and ever-changing weather conditions make it a photographer’s paradise. The region offers a variety of scenic vistas, from rolling meadows and dense forests to snow-covered peaks and serene lakes. The picturesque beauty of Chopta provides ample opportunities for capturing memorable photographs.

Photographers will find plenty of subjects to shoot, including the dramatic Himalayan peaks, vibrant wildflowers, and tranquil lakes like Deoria Tal. The changing light and weather conditions throughout the day create dynamic and captivating scenes, ensuring that every moment is photographically rewarding. Whether you’re an amateur or a professional photographer, Chopta’s natural beauty offers endless possibilities for capturing stunning images.

7. Seasonal Attractions

Chopta’s attractions vary depending on the season, making it a year-round destination. In the summer months, from April to November, the meadows are lush and green, providing ideal conditions for trekking, camping, and outdoor activities. The pleasant weather and vibrant landscapes during this time make it perfect for exploring the region.

In winter, Chopta transforms into a snowy wonderland, attracting snow enthusiasts and those seeking a winter adventure. The snow-covered landscapes add a magical touch to the region, and activities such as snow trekking and skiing become popular. The winter season offers a different perspective of Chopta’s beauty, making it an appealing destination for those who enjoy cold-weather adventures.

8. Eco-Friendly Tourism

Chopta is committed to promoting eco-friendly tourism practices, making it a responsible travel choice. Efforts are made to preserve the natural beauty of the region and minimize the environmental impact of tourism. By choosing eco-friendly accommodations and participating in sustainable tourism practices, visitors contribute to the conservation of Chopta’s pristine environment.

Eco-friendly tourism in Chopta includes practices such as reducing waste, respecting wildlife, and supporting local communities. Many Chopta Tour Packages incorporate eco-friendly initiatives, ensuring that travelers can enjoy their visit while contributing to the preservation of this beautiful region.

9. Local Cuisine and Culture

Experiencing local cuisine and culture is an integral part of any visit to Chopta. The region offers traditional Garhwali dishes that are both flavorful and unique. Local specialties include roti made from ragi flour, solai (amaranth) leaves curry, and Buransh juice made from the rhododendron flower. These dishes provide a taste of the region’s culinary heritage and are often enjoyed by travelers seeking an authentic experience.

Engaging with local communities also provides insights into their way of life and traditional practices. The friendly and hospitable locals offer a warm welcome to visitors, and their cultural traditions add a rich dimension to the overall travel experience. By participating in local activities and supporting local businesses, travelers can gain a deeper understanding of Chopta’s culture and heritage.

10. Accessibility and Accommodation

Chopta is relatively accessible, with well-connected roads from major cities such as Dehradun, Rishikesh, and Haridwar. The road connecting the towns of Gopeshwar and GuptaKashi provides a direct route to Chopta. For those traveling by air, Jolly Grant Airport is the nearest airport, located approximately 220 kilometers from Chopta. Regular flights from Delhi to Jolly Grant ensure convenient access to the region.

Travelers arriving by train can reach Rishikesh, the nearest railway station, which is about 200 kilometers from Chopta. From Rishikesh, taxi and bus options are available to complete the journey. Accommodation in Chopta ranges from budget lodges to more comfortable stays, ensuring that travelers of all preferences and budgets can find suitable lodging.

Conclusion

Whether you’re seeking adventure, spiritual solace, or a peaceful retreat, Chopta offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to all types of travelers. Its combination of natural beauty, spiritual significance, and unspoiled charm makes it a must-visit destination. If you’re planning a holiday or looking for a unique travel experience, consider exploring Chopta through a Chopta Tour Package that includes options such as the Chopta Chandrashila Trek and the Chopta Tungnath Trek. The Chopta Package Price varies depending on the inclusions and season, but it promises an unforgettable journey amidst one of India’s most scenic and serene locations. Whether you choose a Chopta Trip Package for adventure, spirituality, or relaxation, Chopta is sure to offer a memorable and enriching experience.

[chikucab34]

Are Varanasi And Banaras Same?

Are Varanasi and Banaras same?

Varanasi also known as Benaras or Banaras or Kashi is the city located in the bank of the sacred river Ganga in the state of Uttar Pradesh in North India which is one of the oldest city in world which existed since 11th century BC. In the past it was also referred to as the spiritual capital of India. However, it is India’s largest religious city, one of the seven sacred cities of Hindus and Jains. It has Hindu people who come to wash their bodies in water from river GANGES and bury their dead. Approximately two thousand temples are located in this city constructed in meandering alleys one of the most significant being the Kashi Vishwanath or the ‘Golden Temple’ that enshrine the lord Shiva.

Varanasi also developed is an industrial city for Muslim and silk fabrics, fragrances, ivory works, art Buddha is said to have come to Kashi and founded Buddhism in 528 BCE in Sarnath where he gave his first sermon known as ‘The Turning of the Wheel of Dharma’. In terms of religion, it is noteworthy that in the VIII century Adi Shankara established Shiva as an official religion of the city. Muslim domination prevailed during the early period of the Middle Ages play an important role in Hinduism as it was a temple and a center of pilgrimage and educational and cultural center of mysticism and poetry. I would also like to mention that Varanasi is the place where Tulsidas, the great Indian poet, composed Ram Charit Manas – the great Indian epic describing the life and deeds of Rama.

[jothishi]

Mahashivratri, or "The Great Night of Shiva," holds great spiritual importance in India. It occurs on the fourteenth day of every lunar month, particularly in February-March. During Mahashivratri, the natural energy surge in the northern hemisphere aligns with spiritual growth.

The nightlong festival emphasizes staying awake with a vertical spine. For those on the spiritual path, it's significant, while families celebrate it as Shiva's wedding anniversary, and the ambitious view it as the day Shiva conquered his enemies.

Ascetics see Mahashivratri as the night Shiva became still, like Mount Kailash, making it a night of profound stillness in the yogic tradition, where Shiva is revered as the Adi Guru.

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#mahashivratri #shivratri #shiva #shambhu #adiyogi #shankara #bhairav #hindufestival #hinduculture #hinduism #jyotirlinga

[optimatravels]

Enchanting Attractions of Kochi

Nestled on the southwest coast of India, Kochi, also known as Cochin, is a captivating blend of tradition and modernity. This vibrant city, steeped in history, boasts a rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and a bustling atmosphere that draws travelers from around the globe. If you find yourself in the commercial capital of Kerala, prepare for an unforgettable experience as we unveil the top 20 things to do in Kochi.

Fort Kochi and Mattancherry: A Historical Odyssey - Begin your journey in Fort Kochi and Mattancherry, where history unfolds at every corner. Stroll through the cobbled streets lined with colonial-era buildings, visit the iconic Santa Cruz Basilica, and explore the ancient Mattancherry Palace, a testament to the city's royal past.

Chinese Fishing Nets at Vasco da Gama Square - Head to Vasco da Gama Square to witness the iconic Chinese fishing nets. These massive, cantilevered nets are a remnant of Kochi's maritime history and provide a picturesque scene against the backdrop of the Arabian Sea.

Jew Town and Synagogue - Step into the vibrant Jew Town, home to the centuries-old Pardesi Synagogue. Marvel at the exquisite architecture, explore antique shops, and soak in the multicultural essence that defines this unique part of Kochi.

Kochi Biennale - If you're a lover of contemporary art, time your visit to coincide with the Kochi-Muziris Biennale. This international art exhibition transforms the city into a canvas for artists worldwide, showcasing diverse and thought-provoking works.

Kathakali Performance - Immerse yourself in the traditional art form of Kathakali, a classical dance-drama that narrates stories through elaborate costumes, expressive facial makeup, and intricate movements. Attend a live performance to witness this captivating cultural experience.

Spice Market Exploration - Delve into the aromatic world of spices at the spice markets of Kochi. Wander through the vibrant stalls, engage with the local vendors, and discover the diverse array of spices that have drawn traders to this region for centuries.

Backwater Cruise in Alleppey - Embark on a serene backwater cruise in Alleppey, just a short drive from Kochi. Glide through picturesque waterways on a traditional houseboat, surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing sounds of nature.

Marine Drive and Sunset Views - Unwind along the scenic Marine Drive, a picturesque promenade that offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. As the sun sets, the skyline comes alive with a symphony of colors, creating a mesmerizing backdrop for a leisurely evening.

St. Francis Church - Visit the historic St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India. This centuries-old structure bears witness to Kochi's colonial past and provides a tranquil space for reflection.

Dutch Cemetery - Explore the Dutch Cemetery, an understated yet significant historical site. The well-maintained grounds house tombs and memorials that tell tales of the Dutch settlers who once influenced Kochi's landscape.

Cultural Center of Kerala – Kaladi - Venture to Kaladi, the birthplace of Adi Shankaracharya, a revered philosopher and theologian. The Adi Shankara Keerthi Sthamba Mandapam and the Sharada Devi Temple are must-visit landmarks that honor his legacy.

Bolgatty Palace and Island Resort - Escape to the tranquility of Bolgatty Island and explore the Bolgatty Palace, a colonial-era mansion turned into a luxurious resort. The lush surroundings and scenic views make it an ideal retreat.

Cherai Beach - For a relaxing day by the sea, head to Cherai Beach. With its golden sands and gentle waves, this pristine beach is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a dip in the warm waters of the Arabian Sea.

Kuzhupilly Beach - Discover the serene beauty of Kuzhupilly Beach, a hidden gem away from the crowds. This secluded stretch of coastline is ideal for those seeking a peaceful escape and a connection with nature.

Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary - Nature enthusiasts will delight in the Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary, a green oasis in the heart of Kochi. Explore the lush surroundings and spot a variety of migratory and resident bird species in this urban sanctuary.

Visit the Indo-Portuguese Museum - Dive into Kochi's multicultural history at the Indo-Portuguese Museum, showcasing artifacts and exhibits that reflect the strong influence of Portuguese culture in the region.

Attend a Theyyam Performance - Experience the vibrant Theyyam dance ritual, a traditional form of worship that combines dance, music, and elaborate costumes. Witnessing a Theyyam performance provides a unique glimpse into the spiritual and cultural heritage of Kerala.

Explore the Hill Palace Museum - Discover the regal history of the erstwhile Maharajas of Kochi at the Hill Palace Museum. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts, including royal belongings, paintings, and sculptures, offering a fascinating journey through time.

Visit the Paradesi Synagogue - Head back to Jew Town to visit the Paradesi Synagogue, a significant religious and historical landmark. Admire the exquisite architecture, intricate interiors, and the compelling history that surrounds this synagogue.

Ayurvedic Rejuvenation - Conclude your Kochi experience with a rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatment. Indulge in traditional massages, wellness therapies, and herbal remedies that have been practiced in Kerala for centuries, leaving you refreshed and revitalized.

Kochi, with its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, promises a memorable journey for every traveler. Whether you're exploring ancient sites, relaxing on pristine beaches, or immersing yourself in traditional arts, Kochi invites you to savor its diverse offerings. As you embark on this enriching adventure, let the vibrant spirit of Kochi captivate your senses and create lasting memories. Kochi tour packages by Optima Travels offer options to explore Cochin.

[holybookslibrary]

From the Upanishads by Ananda Wood

From the Upanishads by Ananda Wood From the Upanishads by Ananda Wood is focused on the approach of Shri Shankara’s Advaita Vedanta tradition, as interpreted by Shri Atmananda, a modern advaita philosopher who lived in Kerala State, India, 1883-1959. The book is a collection of retellings from selected passages of the Upanishads. In these retellings, the original texts have been freely interpreted and often modified, to make them more accessible to a modern reader. For those who are interested in the original texts, a companion volume, called Interpreting the Upanishads, shows how particular concepts and passages have been interpreted in the retellings. Download the ebook here (279 pages): From The Upanishads by Ananda Wood

About Shri Shankara’s Advaita Vedanta tradition

Shri Shankara's Advaita Vedanta tradition is a profound and influential school of thought within Indian philosophy, founded by the great philosopher and theologian Adi Shankaracharya in the 8th century CE. Advaita, meaning "non-duality," posits that the true essence of reality and the self is Brahman, the ultimate, unchanging reality, devoid of attributes and distinctions. This tradition emphasizes the idea that the apparent diversity and multiplicity of the world are illusory. According to Shankara, the phenomenal world is characterized by Maya, an illusory power that causes humans to perceive the world as real and separate from Brahman. The ultimate goal in Advaita Vedanta is to transcend this illusion and realize one's own identity with Brahman, achieving liberation (Moksha). Shankara's teachings revolve around the Upanishads, the Bhagavad Gita, and the Brahma Sutras, which he interpreted through his commentaries, establishing a strong philosophical foundation for Advaita Vedanta. His work includes a detailed analysis of the nature of reality and consciousness, the relationship between the individual soul (Atman) and Brahman, and the path to spiritual liberation. Advaita Vedanta's approach to spiritual practice involves Jnana Yoga, the path of knowledge, which emphasizes the importance of discrimination between the real and the unreal, self-inquiry, and deep contemplation. Shankara's teachings have profoundly influenced not just Indian philosophy but also various spiritual movements worldwide, offering a unique perspective on the nature of existence and the path to ultimate truth and freedom. Read the full article

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[blogynewsz]

"Exhilarating Comeback: Sanchaya Unveils Long-Awaited Return of Tempest, Stirring Up Excitement After a Two-Year Absence"

Sanchaya, a Kannada theatre troupe that celebrated its 35th anniversary recently, will be presenting one of its most popular productions, “Tempest,” on Thursday, August 31, at Ranga Shankara. This Kannada-language production, which was created almost a decade ago, has been showcased in more than 30 shows across India and is returning to the stage after a two-year hiatus. “Tempest” is believed to…

[storizenmagazine]

#BookReview: “The Indian Book of Big Ideas” by Mukunda Rao and published by Hachette India is an enlightening exploration of the thoughts and concepts put forth by 45 of India’s most profound thinkers, philosophers, and reformers. This comprehensive small book delves into various subjects, from spirituality and philosophy to social reform. It poses intriguing questions such as the interconnection of everything in the world, the relativity of truth across individuals, and whether God communicates exclusively with specific individuals.

Each chapter in the book offers a concise biography of the featured thinker or reformer and a thorough examination of their key ideas and significance in the modern context. The book provides a well-rounded perspective on these profound ideas by drawing from diverse sources, including ancient texts, contemporary writings, and personal reflections. It considers the historical background of these concepts, aiding readers in understanding the cultural and intellectual milieu from which they emerged and appreciating their enduring pertinence in today’s world.

Covering a vast array of topics, from the importance of non-violence, compassion, and self-realization to the relationship between the individual and the divine, this book presents a wealth of insights from luminaries like Mahavira, Gargi, Adi Shankara, Kabir, the Buddha, Vivekananda, Guru Nanak, and many others.

“The Indian Book of Big Ideas” aims to foster deep contemplation and personal and societal growth through self-reflection, education, and spiritual exploration. It does so by presenting the ideas of these eminent thinkers in an accessible manner, making them understandable to readers from various backgrounds. Moreover, it includes a glossary of key terms and recommended further reading for those eager to delve deeper into these concepts.

Read here - https://tinyurl.com/2p8j4kzp