Inner Connection With Fact

"The deep connection between nature and spiritual experiences resonates in countless instances from our ancient Puranic scriptures. During my visit to Prayagraj, an ancient city renowned for its literature, educational significance, and the Kumbh Mela, I witnessed the profound impact of such experiences.

Prayag, often referred to as the old city of Bharat, holds a special place in history, believed to be the spot where drops of Amrit fell after the churning of the ocean during Samudra Manthan, leading to the periodic Kumbh Mela every 12 years.

I'd like to delve into the remarkable events associated with the Bade Hanumanji Temple near the Sangam of Prayag. Though small in size, this unique temple portrays Hanumanji in a sleeping position, a result of the fatigue from the war with Ravan. Maa Sita's blessing, symbolized by vermillion, is a reminder of Hanumanji's rest here.

Adding to the spiritual evidence is the annual overpowering of Ganga water inside the temple, a gentle touch within the sanctum where the deity is enshrined. Historical accounts, such as Aurangzeb's attempt to remove the statue, showcase the temple's resilience and spiritual significance.

Devotees, including sadhus and staunch believers, visit for blessings and meditation. Every Tuesday witnesses a vibrant procession from nearby villages, featuring drums, bhajans, and a long red flag carried into the temple. This spectacle exemplifies the faith and traditions followed by the people, uniting us in selfless acts.

The various types of traditions and puja rituals not only showcase our unity but also serve as a practical example for the younger generation. The corner where authentic homas are conducted underscores the importance of preserving our culture and practicing good deeds, offering a positive impact on our society."

PANCHALINGESWAR TEMPLE OF BEGUR

                                 Panchalingeswar temple of Begur

I was profoundly moved by the historical monument and the rich cultural value of temples during my recent visit. Everywhere I went, my attention was captivated, and I made sure to gather as much information as possible. The availability of inscriptions provided insights into the history of significant places. The exquisite architectural styles of the temples in Bengaluru especially caught my interest, prompting me to delve deeper into their study.

One temple that left a lasting impression on me was the Panchalingeswar temple in Begur, located just 3.5 km from Bommanhalli Junction. Even in the ancient inscriptions dating back 1100 years, this temple showcased the prominence of what is now the IT hub of India. Upon arrival, a sense of serenity and beauty enveloped me as I admired the architectural style of the temple. Some statues were carefully displayed in a corner, while stone inscriptions provided detailed accounts of Begur's history, mentioning its name as Bengaluru.

In its heyday, Begur was an important place for the Western Ganga dynasty and the Chola kingdom. The renowned Nageswara temple with its Panchalinga, a fort, and a lake were prominent features of the area. Begur served as the center of 12 villages, all of which were owned by Nagatara, the chief commander of the Ganga king. Nagatara valiantly fought against the Nolambus in the Battle of Tumbe Padli in 910 AD. When Nagatara died, Irugamaiha took over as the chief and erected hero stones in memory of his fallen commander.

The temple's structures follow the Dravidian style of architecture, with lower plinths and secluded spaces for the deities, creating an environment conducive to meditation. The purity and sanctity that prevails in this temple for worship are awe-inspiring. No one can touch the deity's statue directly, as the supremacy of divine power resonates throughout the temple, leaving a lasting impression on all devotees. This reflects the inner strength of the Shaivism sect, which has flourished since time immemorial.

The Panchalingeswar temple stands as an exemplary representation of the distinct architectural style of Indian temples, showcased in a truly unique manner. The presence of inscriptions on the temple's lower part serves as a testament to its historical significance. The entrance gate itself is a splendid example of India's beautiful architecture. The time I spent there profoundly affected my mind, allowing me to comprehend the vibrancy and spiritual essence of Shaivism. I touched the stone inscriptions on the temple walls, connecting with the emotions and sentiments that have endured through the years.

We owe a great debt of gratitude to our forefathers who constructed such magnificent temples, for they now fill us with pride in being Indian and embracing our rich culture.

Sapna Acharya

Khoj- Travel Vlog

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Discovering Karya Siddhi Anjaneya Temple:A Path to Fufilling Desires

Title: Discovering Karya Siddhi Anjaneya Temple: A Path to Fulfilling Desires

Introduction:

Exploring distinctive and renowned places has always been my passion. During one of my journeys, I stumbled upon a remarkable temple in Bangalore that captured my attention. The 41-year-old Hanuman Temple, known as Karya Siddhi Anjaneya Temple, is said to fulfill the deepest desires of devotees when they offer a humble coconut. Join me as I recount my experience and shed light on the intriguing rituals and beliefs surrounding this renowned pilgrimage site.

A Visit to Girinagar:

One morning, my companions and I embarked on a journey to Girinagar, where the Hanuman Temple is nestled. Eager to partake in the temple's unique traditions, we arrived a little early, only to discover that the registration for coconut offerings had not yet begun. Patiently, we awaited the opening of the ashram, savoring betel leaves as we anticipated the day's events.

The Registration Process:

At 9 am, the registration process began, and a multitude of devotees swiftly filled the hall. Excitement brimming in the air, devotees lined up to register their coconuts by depositing Rs100 for each offering. The majority of the visitors were young individuals, eager to embark on this spiritual journey.

The Sacred Ritual:

Once the coconut was obtained, the process commenced with the booking of a specific date for "poorna phala karma," a complete offering ceremony. After a solemn sankalp, an orange thread was tied around the devotee's wrist, and a slip containing hymns was presented to guide the subsequent daily practice of reciting the mantra 108 times.

Aligning the Coconuts:

As per the temple's instructions, devotees hung their coconuts in rows, following a specified alphabetical order and corresponding dates. This systematic arrangement facilitated the orderly progression of the ritual. The mantra was recited diligently for 108 times each day over a span of 16 days, while the devotee strictly abstained from consuming non-vegetarian food and alcohol.

Completion of the Ritual:

Upon the culmination of the 16-day practice, the coconut, now infused with the devotee's prayers and intentions, was returned. The orange thread, symbolizing the completion of the process, was dutifully offered to a nearby tree within the temple premises. During my stay in the ashram, I observed that this method attracted numerous young working individuals seeking to fulfill their wishes while adhering to the temple's rules and regulations.

The Power of Hanuman and Personal Growth:

According to religious beliefs, Hanuman, known for his unwavering devotion and strength, possesses the ability to fulfill the wishes of devotees, much like how he aided Lord Rama in the Tretaya Yug. The rituals and practices within the temple draw inspiration from ancient Hindu scriptures. However, they also serve as a means for the present generation to cultivate discipline, control their minds, and improve their overall well-being.

The Significance of Meditation and Faith:

To truly benefit from this spiritual journey, the devotee must cultivate patience, deep faith, and unwavering commitment. The prescribed 16-day period of reciting specific mantras acts as a transformative practice, guiding individuals toward a change in mindset. This process emphasizes the importance of meditation, which helps individuals enhance their focus and attention.

Conclusion:

Karya Siddhi Anjaneya Temple, popularly known for its "poorna phala samarpana" (complete offering ceremony), stands as a testament to the power of devotion and the fulfillment of desires. This renowned temple in Bangalore offers a unique spiritual   experience, attracting countless visitors, particularly from the younger generation, who seek personal growth and the realization of their aspirations.

Sapna Acharya

Social Activist

Travel Vlogger

PROSPECTIVE OF RELATION

 Life in Bengaluru, an IT city, follows its own course, characterized by a constant rat race. The younger generation relentlessly pursues their ambitions, leaving little time for meaningful connections with others. During my brief stay in Hopefarm, I embraced the identity of a Bengalurian, distinct from the bustling atmosphere of Delhi. The city's customized lifestyle compelled me to observe its workings from a fresh perspective, seeking to understand the emotions and experiences of the people around me.

Every day, near my residence, I witnessed a familiar sight that captured my attention: women engrossed in small businesses, unaffected by external conditions as they stood by the roadside, striving to earn money for their families. Their incredible spirit and unwavering dedication portrayed a form of women empowerment, elevating their standards of living.

To break away from my daily routine, I often ventured outside, even though the distance between Hopefarm and Sanchandra was short. I paid close attention to the various activities taking place, such as the creation of flower garlands, the sale of coconut water, and vegetable vending.

While walking along the pavement, a small temple near a gated society caught my eye. The simplicity of the rectangular stone idol of Hanuman, adorned with brush-painted images, intrigued me. Adjacent to the square chamber, there was a cabin where a lady named Bhagya amma sold flowers and puja materials. Intrigued, I waited in front of her for a few minutes. With a quick smile, she momentarily fell silent. I asked, "Amma, do you have a diya and oil for offering to God?" She nodded immediately and swiftly gathered the items for me. It seemed she had been eagerly anticipating a customer. This encounter marked the beginning of a compassionate bond, a connection between two individuals without any specific reason.

Subsequently, my regular visits to the pavement instilled a desire to regularly purchase a diya for worship. The lady's smile and selfless demeanor sparked my curiosity about her financial situation, prompting me to consider how I could assist her. One Tuesday, her small shop remained closed for a few consecutive days, indicating that something might be amiss. Time passed, and one day, at the usual time, I saw her opening the shop's door. Unable to resist, I inquired about her absence. From her explanation, I learned that her son had been hospitalized due to liver complications. Sensing the potential need for financial support, I positioned myself as a strong contender, eager to understand her circumstances. Crossing boundaries, I delved into personal matters and asked how she managed her family, considering her husband's long unemployment due to a road accident. Nevertheless, the contentment on her face remained unchanged as she expressed financial stability through a rented house and her small flower shop near the temple, which covered their daily expenses. This brief interaction brought us closer, and I felt compelled to offer my assistance. She maintained her dignity and showed no expectations. Her perseverance and innocent gaze led me to silence. Despite her flower business yielding only a modest turnover of Rs 2000, her contentment remained high, and she harbored no complaints. Her perspective on life was limited, yet she exuded happiness and made diligent efforts to sell her wares to the devotees who visited the temple. Our attachment grew intentionally, and our conversations became intimate, as if I were a part of her life. After offering my prayers, I intentionally took a small diya to provide solace to her. Aware of my intentions, she gifted me a bunch of flowers, their fragrance permeating the area, much like her own nature. I felt blessed to have been a part of her life, albeit for a fleeting moment. In a city like Bengaluru, where nobody has time to witness others' pain, as everyone is focused on their own pursuits, the experience served as a reminder of the importance of empathy and connection in leading a fulfilling life.

Sapna Acharya

Social Activist

Travel Vlogger

Craft Village-Jagamohan

The inqusitive nature compel me to visit the remote location to find the important craft work of artisans. In this context i preferred to make a plan to go a village of Ganjam District of Odisha.

From my nostalgic perspective i remembered the stories from my grandmother who shared her life which was related with her village. How important to get a corelation with the work of village people of bygone eras? Before Independence of India, Monarch rules were elaborately continued at different provinces.  Local rulers set their own work amongst different categories.  Its a known fact that Nava sasan were there so also many artisans villages for giving services to Royal families.

Amongst such examples one royal family of Ganjam district  Dharakota is very famous for their regal heritage and beneficiary work for common people of society.

Jagamohan is a very small village near to Dharakota just 2km distance from there. Around 200 artisan families are living there . They are renowned for their craftmanship work of bronze utensils. At any time of the day the sound echoes at each corner of the village.

Once present at the lane of the village its an exotic place to spend time with the locals. The size of each house is no doubt very small but no matter what the lenght and width of the house. Focus of each persons are there on their productive work. 

The art of making bronze utensils are hereditary.  Each members of every families are learning their forefathers art of making utensils.   The basic raw materials are importing from Calcutta. Rest of final products are prepared by the locals through their own hand.No machinces are required to give shape for any designs of the utensils. 

It is believed that the marriage of daughter of anyone is linked with this village -Jahamohan. The marriage season activate highly the work of the artisans. As bronze utensils are basically given to daughters at their marriage time .Not only utensils but also the idols of Gods and decorative materials are made at the village of Jagamohan.

The art of making beautiful designs give message to all progressives society is that our traditional style are very unique in every way. 

The use of traditional bronze plates and other utensil are the sign of keeping our great traditions of families as well as its use are good for health. 

The meeting with several artisans of local village gave me utter satisfaction and felt credit for their work. But,somehow the things are not same as like earlier. The demand of public are gradually diminishing  because of transaction of peoples less requirement . The low business gradually compels the new generations to move their profession to other fields.  Sometimes young generations believe on easy going way for income of money instead to follow their traditional work. Thats why they are shifting to  other industrial location of India.Now,the use of steel and melamine dinnerware cause to effect on the work of the craftpersons of Jagamohan.

                          We should aware to generate motivation for the regular use of bronze utensils at our home. The demand of public will definitely generate interest among artisans. The flow of business will definitely bring a colors in the life of villagers.

Jagamohan is not only a earmarked village of bygone eras but a live example of art and craftmamship of Odia Culture which the villagers keep it alive till now through their hardwork and  brilliant art .we must give credit to each people of Jagamohan for their contributions in the traditional hand work of bronze making utensils.Still it give impression to others for giving a new lease of life for generations to generations further. This is the importance of Jagamohan for which we must pay visit there to acquire an exclusive experience of our own.

Sapna Acharya

Travel Writer

Blogger