#shaivaites

[indiantiquest]

. . Raja Ravi Varma's Kaasi Vishwanatha Shiva original Lithograph framed portrait, Exceptional detailing and colour reproduction, very rare subject that too in thick board Lithograph, framed in removable clip frame to easily take out the original Lithograph in case if needed to be reframed. Depicts Lord Shivas bust with other gods on four corners, rare collectible. . Provenance- Artist - Raja Ravi Varma Publisher - Ravi Varma Press, Karla, Lonavla. Distributor - Anant Sivaji Desai, Moti Bazar Mumbai Registered No 494 . . Dimensions Dimensions 15.5 inches tall 11.5 inches wide . . 🛒Now on Sale🏷 🛃Check📏 Dimensions for size ❌ No Returns-Exchange-Refunds 📮 Buy directly from Website Free Shipping in 🇮🇳 ✈Safe Shipping 📦 Worldwide 🌎 . . #indiantiquest #antiqueshop #antique #antiqueart #lord #antiquestore #ravivarma #lithograph #shiva #kailash #oleograph #prints #photo #heirloom #ganga #shaivaites #gods #indiandecor #antiqueprints #rescue #godsofhinduism #lord #ganesh #parvathy #parameshwar #eshwar https://www.instagram.com/p/Cn9uzLWg696/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[whencyclopedia]

Ajanta

Approximately 67 miles (107 km) to the north of Aurangabad in the Indhyadri range of Western Ghats lie the caves of Ajanta. The 30 caves, famous for their early Buddhist temple architecture and many delicately drawn murals, are located in a 76 m high, horseshoe-shaped escarpment overlooking the Waghora (tiger) River. The river originates from a picturesque waterfall called sat kund (seven leaps) just off the last cave. It serves as a potent reminder of the natural forces that over untold eons have shaped the basaltic layers of the Deccan plateau. Also a part of the Gautala Wildlife Sanctuary, this primordial landscape provides a fitting background to one of the finest collections of paintings from India's antiquity.

Accorded UNESCO World Heritage site status in 1983 CE, the ancient name of the site is untraceable today. Its current name is derived from a neighbouring village, the local pronunciation of which is Ajintha. It would be of interest to note, that Ajita is the colloquial name of Maitreya Buddha.

Timeline & Patronage

The period of excavation (used as synonymous to the carving of the caves) can be divided into two broad phases. The earliest caves (Cave 8, 9, 10, 12, 13, 15A), belonging to the Hinayana phase of Buddhism, can be roughly traced back to the 2nd century BCE, with its period of activity continuing to around the 1st century CE during the rule of Satavahana Dynasty (2nd century BCE – 2nd century CE). The later phase of activities, between 5th and 6th century CE, largely took place under the patronage of the Vakataka dynasts (3rd century – 5th century CE). The Vakatakas were contemporaries of the Gupta Empire. The greatest flourish of this phase took place during the brief but remarkable reign of the Vakataka Emperor, Harisena (460 CE - 477 CE). By then the “mythologising tendency of Indian thought” (Coomaraswamy) had already given birth to Mahayana Buddhism from more austere Hinayana practices.

The excavation and creation of the caves seem to have been a more community effort in the earlier phase. Group efforts contributed to the building of various parts of the caves, from the façades to single cells. Later, however, construction was marked by sponsorship from influential patrons and local feudatories. Inscriptions from Caves 4, 16, 17, 20, and 26 indicate that often multiple caves were constructed under the benefaction of one patron; examples would include local Risika king Upendragupta, Harisena's Prime Minister Varahadeva, and the Asmaka monk Buddhabhadra. Royal patronage did not, however, restrict its accessibility to an exclusive clique. Thus, despite being a Shaivaite emperor (at least at the time of accession to throne), Harisena presided over the execution of some of the finest depictions of Buddhist legends.

Continue reading...

[willkatfanfromasia]

It's our penultimate chapter y'all!

A Matter of Chance -16

Aditha, himself unaware of the full extent of this matter, was horrified. His uncle was adopted- and twin to his fiancée?! He immediately trained his eyes onto Nandini's face.

Kundhavai and Nambi decided not to be their busybody selves and left the couple alone.

Nandini felt sick. Her face was oddly still while her mind uncontrollably buzzed from one thought to another, without completing any. She was sleepless and Aditha decided to spend the night in a sitting room outside her boudoir for company.

She stood up from her bed, walking all the way outside. She saw her beloved ilavarasar asleep on a petite velvet sofa. He bore this discomfort, like so many others, so he could do right by her. He never asks anything in return she thought as she sat down beside him, lightly tracing the lines and scars on his face.

She almost felt guilty for loving him so much, her heart ached thinking of how she loved a mortal as much as God-if not more.

Nandini went from having no one to protect to having to consider two people – Aditha and her twin.

The mild mannered yet aloof Prince Madhurantakan was her twin. She’d laugh at the irony of a Krishna devotee having a Shaivaite twin if her heart hadn’t broken.

She hadn’t seen him in years yet felt a fierce need to protect her twin. Was this how kundhavai felt for aditha?

She pitied and envied him! To have grown up in a palace wanting for nothing, not having to experience danger. Yet no one, not even his ‘mother’ wanted him as king.

Blessed with every gift, but when it came to the throne these royals always chose blood over all else.

She would fight to protect him…

A sudden twitch of Aditha’s face made her trace her nose on his cheek, prompting him to giggle and draw her in.

But not at the cost of her Aditha’s inheritance.

The man who had everything, had chosen her twice over. He refused to forget or forsake her.

Her eyes gained clarity as she leaned into the crook of his neck. He shifted slightly and curled around her face.

The mystery of her past no longer seemed important now. It was her and Aditha’s future that she prized.

-------------------------------------

2 weeks had passed in the place she never thought she’d visit.

Her mornings were spent learning etiquette, followed by socializing with different chieftains and their families. The afternoons saw kundhavai and Aniruddha Brahmarayar explaining politics and the different factions.

Her evenings belonged solely to Aditha, who delighted in accompanying her to temples and carrying her on his horse. He hung onto every word or gesture that belied minute discomfort and ensured she didn’t have to tolerate the gossips of palace dwellers as she once had.

Kundhavai though no longer a problem, was still a bad memory. But she was overshadowed by the presence of Sembiyan Madevi and Prince Madhurantakan.

Every meeting with the stately Dowager empress was rife with unspoken tension, both parties exchanging pleasantries while skirting the exile. Her meetings with Madhurantakan progressed better. He mistrusted others, now aware of his true heritage but warm towards Nandini.

Their initial meetings were awkward. Two siblings born together, raised in vastly different homes now reunited as uncle and niece in law. Aditha too added onto this awkwardness… is that his sithappa (uncle) or brother in law? He also was slightly envious of the time they spent together, but it wouldn’t last long- he was marrying his Nandini and nothing could dampen his joy.

The wedding no one predicted, happened with great fanfare. The city was decked with flowers and colorful bunting. The royal family donated generously to all and sundry.

The happy couple carried out the rituals with unshed tears of joy. The panditars, used to formality from other royal couples, noticed the way they clung to each other but refrained from commenting.

She sat in front of the dieties, Lord Shiva at the wedding and later Lord Vishnu in private, thanking them unceasingly for reuniting them. She shuddered to think what may’ve happened otherwise.

Aditha’s mind was similarly occupied, except his eyes were open and transfixed on her. He could never look away from her and she could always sense his eyes on her.

All the noble families and chieftains had arrived in Thanjai for the crown prince’s wedding. Nandini found herself putting her newfound lessons into use as she judged them.

Vanthiyadevan was charm personified. He was a godsend, lightening tense situations, calming everyone and most importantly – occupying a certain princess. It was very satisfying to see kundhavai try and hide her “lovestruck” face in public- take that!

All the aristocrats were perplexed by her rise in power but treaded cautiously- it wouldn’t do to make enemies with a future Empress.

The younger pazhuvettarayar seemed neutral towards her, but was worried about his son-in-law madhurantakan’s future. The older pazhuvettarayar hadn’t warmed up to her as princess but seemed to appreciate her form.

Speaking of which, Parthibendran and Kandhanmaran (the chieftain of kadambur’s son) were truly annoying her with their blatant gawking. She didn’t wish to make enemies while she stood on unsteady ground, but that doesn’t mean she can’t have fun. She noticed Aditha’s breathing deepen as he thought of various ways to annihilate his friends.

She teasingly caressed his back as she addressed them

“My lords, have both of you not spent years with my devar? What’s he like as a fellow soldier?”

Both began eagerly to answer her, closed their mouths when they realised the other and opened again hoping to charm her with a reply. Aditha sat looking like he couldn’t believe he was friends with them.

“He is extremely brave my lady! He loves his soldiers as a brother and tries hard to safeguard them” they chirped, prompting Aditha to hotly whisper “wouldn’t you rather test my virtues than just hear their praises? “in her ear

“I can proudly say I’ve accompanied him in every war” gloated Parthibendran.

“I have joined him in the wars most important to our empire” challenged Kandhanmaran.

Aha! “You gentlemen seem to have the empire’s best interests at heart…. That comforts me” she said with downturned eyes- her husband was beginning to understand her intent and smirked.

“Of course devi, our clans have sworn to protect this empire”

“Bravo! But a woman’s heart can’t help but worry for her beloved. Krishna has blessed me with so brave a husband yet I fret- I have heard the senior chieftains preferring Prince Madhurantakan.” She leaned into her husband for effect and Aditha playfully pretended to comfort her

“No need to fear devi, we have the crown prince’s best interests at heart. We shall dissuade those opposing him.” They said, eager to elicit a smile on her glorious lips.

Smile she did, for a job well done.

The call for dinner arrived and they rose unwillingly. Aditha pulled her into him and teased “Your first day as crown princess and you’ve already put your wits to use. What are your intentions, minx”

She traced the gold border of his garment and said “just a wedding present, Ilavarase!” followed by a gentle smack on his shoulder when he jokingly sought another kind of “wedding gift”

__________________ subtle smut under this line_________________

She long believed her hardships were a result of getting distracted – first by falling in love then by aiming above her station. Her life as a devoted vaishnavaite left no room for mortal love.

Aditha’s peppering of kisses on her neck didn’t give her much time to feel guilt though. He made her vow of abstinence seem like a hazy dream from the past.

She knew she wanted him- wanted to be made his since eons. Neither could imagine sharing such intimacy with anyone else. She desperately yearned to make him feel the same all-encompassing pleasure and craving he’d made her feel since their youth.

She tore through the vestiges of control and kissed him back with passion as they united in the most primal way, the first of many. Their lips and limbs entangled in a playful battle for dominance, with equal parts reverence and roughness.

The younger maids giggled at the moans as their seniors shushed them; the couple inside wasn’t the least bothered by either.

Silence reigned after what seemed ages, both lovers delightfully sated and admiring each other.

_______________________________

Now that she's no longer despairing or under threat, we get to see some of Nandini's scheming 😏😉

@nashibirne @nspwriteups @vibishalakshman @thelekhikawrites @dr-scribbler @kovaipaavai @budugu @dosai-maavu @matka-kulfi @nirmohi-premika @yehsahihai @curiousgalacticsoul @rang-lo @harinishivaa @chiyaanvikram @celestesinsight @inveter @deepti1011 @vidhurvrika @itszhunotz @babayagahunt @thegleamingmoon @maisadalawa @ragkee @inlovewithfictionalbeings @happysharkdragon @gowrimenonop-1 @ramcharanobsessed @nature-writes29 @voidsteffy @gemsmusings @sowlspace

[thereader-radhika]

10 - Padma

When Nandini arrived with lotus flowers, she saw Aditha Karikalan sitting alone on the granite steps of the old abandoned temple pond. His horse or soldiers were nowhere to be seen. Did he walk here? Royal family rarely visited these temples as they are staunch Shaivaites. Sembiyan Madevi paid them regularly and Kundavai conducted poojas on special occasions like Janmashtami.

He hadn't seen her till now. If she sneaks away, he might go away after sometime. But she didn't want to sneak away. She felt like a tree rooted to the ground. She wanted to talk to him. She will . . . she will ask about his scars and war. Don't subjects have the right to talk that much to their rulers?

"Devi, if you worry this much you will grow old in teenage itself"

When did he see her?

"We all have become too old worrying about the war, komagane. What are you doing here? Royal men never come to this temple. Don't you all go to the Siva temple?"

"Yes, but after one have been to war they will start praying to all gods".

Nandini looked around to see if they are alone. She sat on another distant step. Her mind screamed that this is inappropriate and she should run away.

"Why do you always avoid me, Nandini?"

"Who am I to avoid you, ilavarase? You are the son of the Tirupuvana Chakravarty. The earth. . . "

Karikalan interjected, ". . . 'I stand upon is yours'. Isn't it? I don't want to talk about politics now. Tell me about yourself. I have been away for such a long time. You looked so sad when I went away. I thought it was because you'd miss me. But you look sad even after my return. Why?"

"There is nothing like that. Seriously. Nothing at all."

Karikalan didn't look convinced.

"What can I say about myself? We are a priests' family. We do the same things everyday. Stringing garlands, singing songs, lighting lamps, doing poojas, eating food, sometimes we fight each other. . .".

"You and fighting? Impossible". Both laughed.

"I see that you and my sister have become close when I was away. You were like mongoose and cobra when we were children."

"Did you just call me a snake?", Nandini faked annoyance.

"No, I was just . . ."

"It is alright ilavarase. We were immature children then. Ilaya Piratti has become a matured and responsible young lady. She is very generous to us. We will always be grateful".

"You know, I used to taunt her that you are more beautiful than her".

Nandini was shocked. Why would he say such things to his sister? Won't she feel sad if Thirumalai annan taunted her and akka saying that some other girl is more beautiful? No wonder Kundavai hated her.

"I am sorry, devi. Remember, I too was an immature boy then. I thought it was fun. I didn't think of the consequences but I am glad that you both have forgotten all that now".

"You should apologise to Ilaya Piratti". What has taken over her? Will he punish her for this insolence?

"I will"

Nandini smiled. "I have heard poets singing about your valour and ferocity. You have made quite a name for yourself".

The prince looked pleased but it was obvious that something was gnawing at his heart.

"Still the war isn't won. That coward Veera Pandyan escaped again. He is an expert in running off the battle field and hiding. Do you know, Nandini? This war didn't start today or yesterday. My father too fought him when they were young. Everyone thought my father died. He never talks about that period".

"Where is Veera Pandyan? Do you know?"

"Where else? Ezham. We have already sent a force under Kodumbalur Vellar. For some reason, they are too fond of that Veera Pandyan. This time we will teach them a lesson. Anyway, let us talk about something else. You all have grown up. Arulmozhi and sithappa were so little when I went. Now they are little men. Kundavai was a little jealous girl. You all look like new people."

"That's because you were busy with thoughts about war. You must have forgotten our old faces. But all I could think about was you. I prayed so intensely that your face started to appear before me whenever I prayed about something else too".

Ouch, she said too much. She was too overwhelmed that she didn't think before speaking. Inappropriate. Karikalan was smiling so radiantly that he looked like his namesake sun god.

"Ilaya Piratti and Periya Piratti too. All other girls too prayed. Then . . ."

She couldn't finish her sentence. She averted her gaze. She crossed all limits of properiety. Karikalar looked so ecstatic that it seemed as if he was drunk. He took one lotus bud from her lap. She felt like she reached Vaikuntam as his fingers brushed against her arms.

"Komagane, that's a bud. Here, take this big flower".

"No, I like the bud. Do you know why? Your folded hands remind me me of lotus buds. Aha! You are blushing. Now you look pink like a fully bloomed lotus".

He took a flower from her lap.

"Are you taking them for the pooja? For whom?"

"Who else? For the Padmanabhan who sleeps on Palazhi".

"Then, consider this an archana for this thevar. Next time you should bring lamps too."

"You are teasing me."

"No, I am being serious. At least Perumal has Lakshmi Devi for company. I am all alone."

"Where can we find a Lakshmi Devi in this kali yugam, thevare? You will have to adjust with the flowers. If you really want some company, we can search for an Ananthan in the forests."

"Ada kadavule, you are so mischievous."

"I am", Nandini took the lotus flowers and ran away. She could hear his laughter. She turned back after some time to see if he was looking at her. He wasn't. She felt a tiny hinge of disappointment. This was a mistake. She should never meet him alone.

Then he held the lotus bud so tenderly, so close to his heart and kissed the flower. Nandini shivered as if she fell into the pond at midnight.

Padma - Lotus and/or Lakshmi, the consort of Lord Vishnu

Janmashtami - Sri Krishna's birthday

Devi - Goddess

Komagan, Ilavarasan- Prince

Tirupuvana Chakravarty - Emperor of Three Worlds

Ezham- Sri Lanka

Sithappan - Uncle

Padmanabhan - Lord Vishnu who bears lotus on his navel

Palazhi- The cosmic ocean where Lord Vishnu reclines over his serpent-mount Ananthan accompanied by his consort, Lakshmi.

Archana- Offering

Kali yuga- An era of conflict and sin.

Ananthan-  The celestial snake on which Lord Vishnu sleeps

Ada Kadavule - Oh my god

[thoughtsatthemuseum]

Hero Stones | Government Museum, Bangalore

(there are no labels, but I'd say these were probably made 12th-13th century going by how similar the iconography is to Hoysala sculptures and the obvious Shaivaite influences)

Hero Stones are memorials for fallen soldiers, warriors who have usually given their life to protect the village, or had made an oath to take their lives if they failed to protect their patron.

In these two stones, we see the hero fighting right at the bottom; he is then carried to the heavens by apsaras; finally he spends the rest of his eternal life in worship of Shiva.

The Govt Museum in Bangalore has a large collection of different types of hero stones, all of them memorials of warriors long gone but remembered through time for an act of valour that their families and villages wanted to immortalise.

[blueiscoool]

A  Rare Shiva Linga Found in India

A group of workers laying the foundation for a house on a piece of land owned by a dairy farmer in Thuthipattu village near Ambur in Tirupattur unearthed a 500-year-old shiva linga.

A lingam sometimes referred to as linga or Shiva linga, is an abstract or aniconic representation of the Hindu god Shiva in Shaivism.

A team of officials from the Government Museum, Vellore, led by curator K. Saravanan, inspected the linga on Saturday and traced its origin to the later Vijayanagara era in the 16th Century. “We found a similar green stone lingam on a house plot at Arani [in Tiruvannamalai district] a decade-and-a-half ago,” Mr. Saravanan said.

To build a small concrete house for farmer S. Ramesh, workers were deepening a portion of the land to lay the foundation when one of them struck a stone idol at a depth of seven feet. Workers alerted the landlord, who informed the police and the village administrative officer.

The workers lifted the stone idol with a mechanised crane in the presence of revenue officials and the police. The shiva linga, which is two feet tall and 1.5 feet wide, has no damage to its structure.

Officials said that under the Indian Treasure Trove Act, 1878, anything found below a one-foot depth belongs to the government. Such treasure should be handed over to the district treasury, with the Collector being the sole guardian.

In this case, a report from the Government Museum, Vellore, will be sent to the Director of Museums, Chennai, and the Tirupattur Collector. Museum officials said the Collector would be requested to display the linga at Vellore Museum for students and others learn the rich past of the region.

The shiva linga, archaeologists said, would be around 500 years old and belonged to the Vijayanagara era because it was during that period, the region witnessed more temple constructions. Furthermore, most of the sculptures and idols in the region, including idols that adore the Jalakanteshwara temple, an ASI- protected monument in Vellore, belong to this period, and are made of green stones found in abundance along the Jawadhu Hills in Tiruvannamalai.

Like Sriperumbudur (the birthplace of Saint Ramanuja), the region along the Palar was a great centre for both Vaishnavites and Shaivaites. The green stone linga found near Ambur is a detachable one, another feature of the era. With the finding of the linga, the area has been earmarked for excavation, officials said.

[hinducosmos]

Nagesvara temple at Nageswar Tangi, Odisha

Prateek Dash | ପ୍ରତୀକ ଦାଶ wrote : Temple city trail also called as Ekamrakhestra| ମନ୍ଦିର ମାଳିନୀ

One of the replica of Kalingan architecture in evolving phases , this temple is known as Nagesvara temple also called as Nabakeswar temple is built around 10th century dedicated to lord Shiva is a plain tall elevating structure without any extreme carvings. The temple is surrounded by Ganesha, Kartikeya, Chamunda maa as side deites ( ପାର୍ଶ୍ୱ ଦେବଦେବୀ ). One can also see an ancient pond which is located in front of the temple is used as daily rituals during worship of the lord this is one of the ancient step well also. And also there is a small temple adjacent to the main tower which is used as a storehouse of deity ( ornaments, clothes, shaivaite lingams etc..) .

This temple is situated at Nageswar Tangi named after the presiding lord 800mtrs away from Lingaraja Temple and located near Ravi Talkies square.

(via Instagram: Prateek Dash | ପ୍ରତୀକ ଦାଶ@jajabara.prateek)

[doonitedin]

Gateway to Salvation: Haridwar

Gateway to Salvation: Haridwar

In the scriptures, Haridwar has been variously mentioned as Kapilasthana, Gangadwara and Mayapuri. It is also an entry point to the Char Dham (the four main centres of pilgrimage in Uttarakhand viz, Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri), hence, Shaivaites (followers of Lord Shiva) and Vaishnavites (followers of Lord Vishnu) call this place Hardwar and Haridwar respectively, corresponding…

[mypralaya]

Um so I realize this blog is dead right now but here are some Monsoon headcanons - Not only is Monsoon opposed to Magneto and the Brotherhood, he thinks the X-Men are too radical and violent as it is. I could see him helping them out to save innocent people, but never joining them. - He’s an even more radical pacfist than Haven, because he feels he has to be or he could do something horrible. Haven’s got no killer instinct in her; she doesn’t react with anger easily even when it’s justified, and when she is angry, she still doesn’t have a desire to do violence. So she can go on and acknowledge sometimes violence is the only solution, because there’s no danger of her actually be able to be the person who does it. Monsoon does have those desires, he does have that danger. He’s got a temper, he gets heated easy, and he WANTS to hurt people when they deserve it. But that’s the problem---he doesn’t want to fall into the mentality of “I get to decide when people deserve to be hurt”. He doesn’t trust himself not to go too far, so his solution is just to not “go” at all. At least in theory; in practice, he fails at this UTTERLY, with his hot temper easily provoking him into fights, especially if he feels Haven has been threatened or disrespected, or if the other person has acted in a way he feels is horrible/wrong (which, ironically, can include being violent) - His dislike for his own anger and potential for violence manifests as disgust and disdain for people who actually do use violence, even for good causes. Which, given his aforementioned temper and how he’s easily provoked to fights, really makes him look like a big hypocrite, which frustrates him even more. - I think Haven essentially raised him, based on what I can tell from bits in her backstory? We see a flashback where she’s a teen and he’s a baby, so I headcanon she’s around fifteen years older than he is. She mentions using her parents fortune when she’s 18 or not much older to renovate a children’s hospital. This suggest she got her inheritance by then, which implies her parents died somehow. That would make her in her late teens or early twenties, with a Monsoon who was probably a toddler at most. So she’d be bringing him up entirely, not to mention getting him through the awakening of his considerable mutant powers. This is probably why he respects and obeys her the way he does in canon; she’s not just his older sister, she’s his mother, his only parent, his only known family. He likely also doesn’t have extended family on his mother’s side at least, since their mother was a Zoroastrian and his father was Hindu, and the children of Zoroastrian women who marry outside their faith aren’t recognized by the Zoroastrian community. - Haven states that their parents raised them to embrace all faiths so long as there was a message of love at the core. I think Haven doesn’t identify specifically as any faith, though her villainous philosophy in canon does seem to come from a corrupted Hindu concept, but Monsoon’s forehead markings most resemble the tilaka worn by Shaivaites. Shaivaites are a sect of Hindus that specifically follow Shiva above all other deities. So I headcanon that’s how he religiously identifies and practices, though I feel like his mother’s Zoroastrianism still influences him too. I reckon the Shiva focus comes from his dad, since based on their birthplace I headcanon their dad as Marathi, and Marathi Hindus typically place particular importance on Shiva. I imagine he picked Shiva because Shiva is his ideal as a BENEVOLENT destroyer, someone who has great power but knows when to use it for good, which is how he wishes he was. - Like Haven, he sticks strictly to traditional South Asian clothing, no Western wear. - He always wears a rakhi, a red and gold bracelet representing the brother/sister bond of protection - He speaks English, Hindi, Marathi, and the Parsi dialect of Gujarati. He knows a few IPSL signs from Haven. - He’s uncomfortable and uneasy around women who are sexual, flirtatious, or scantily clad; he gets flustered very easily by that kind of thing. In theory he’d be uncomfy around men who are flirting with him too, but it’s never really come up and he probably would not pick up on it unless it was truly blatant.

[indiantiquest]

. . Raja Ravi Varma's Kaasi Vishwanath Lithograph framed portrait, original Lithograph framed portrait, Exceptional detailing and colour reproduction, very rare subject that too in thick board Lithograph, framed in removable clip frame to easily take out the original Lithograph in case if needed to be reframed. Depicts Lord Shivas bust with other gods on four corners, rare collectible. . Provenance- Artist - Raja Ravi Varma Publisher - Ravi Varma Press, Karla, Lonavla. Distributor - Anant Sivaji Desai, Moti Bazar Mumbai Registered No 494 . . Dimensions Dimensions 15.5 inches tall 11.5 inches wide . . 🛒Now on Sale🏷 🛃Check📏 Dimensions for size ❌ No Returns-Exchange-Refunds 📮 Buy directly from Website Free Shipping in 🇮🇳 ✈Safe Shipping 📦 Worldwide 🌎 . . #indiantiquest #antiqueshop #antique #antiqueart #lord #antiquestore #ravivarma #lithograph #shiva #kailash #oleograph #prints #photo #heirloom #ganga #shaivaites #gods #indiandecor #antiqueprints #rescue #godsofhinduism #lord #ganesh #parvathy #parameshwar #eshwar (at Indian Antique Quest) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cn9kirvgbdl/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[vasudaivakutumbakam]

Your blog is such a mood tbh! I showed it to a friend of mine who was revolted " that there are people who criticize and talk so lowly of our gods" . If anything I should've been the one offended, considering I'm a brahmin, an avid Shaivaite and all that. But this blog is so refreshing We need people like you who take their religion chill and don't go about brandishing guns and what not. Thank you so much for running this blog! I'm Krishna(and femine). Btw isn't The Krishna a babe?

i can't resist making shitposts and memes about Hinduism, this religion is too delicious like a creamy, thicc, chocolaty, fluffy cake

and hell yess Krishna is just 👌👌💦💦💦😧

id let him do unholy things to me

btw I'm open to nsfw requests just throwin' that out there

[mahesh2904]

Exploring Haridwar: The Holy City

Situated on the banks of the river Ganges, in the state of Uttarakhand considered one of the seven holy cities of India, it makes an important pilgrimage site for Hindus Famous for its Temples and Ghats. This place is filled with many things to see and enjoy. 

Reached Haridwar and need a place to get fresh before paying your respects, get Hourly Rooms and Unwind from your experience. 

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Here are a few things to do in The Gateway of Gods Haridwar. 

Let's start with a list of Religious sites to visit in Haridwar.

Hari ki Pauri

The sacred ghats on the banks of the Holy Ganga rivers were constructed by the king Vikramaditya in the memories of his brother Bharthari. Ghats have many attractive things to do as during the morning and evening you can attend the prayer which is offered to Goddess Ganges at ghats. Hari Pauri is also famous for hosting Khumb Mela and Ardha Kumbh Mela. According to Hindu Belief, Hari ki Pauri means the Steps of Vishnu (god), get your peace and harmony by visiting this place. 

2. Chandi Devi Temple

Temple dedicated to the goddess Chandi is located at the top of Neel Parvat. According to the legends, Chanda-Munda, the Army Chief of the local Demon Kings Shumbha and Nishumbha were killed by goddess Chandi. You can trek or take the ropeway to the Temple as the temple is located on the mountain. 

3. Mansa Devi Temple

The temple of Goddess Mansa Devi is located on top of Bilva Parvat, which means 'God who fulfills desires. Mansa Devi temple is a tourist destination, mainly because of the cable cars that offer a view of the city. The main temple has two idols of the goddess, one with three mouths and five arms, while the other has eight arms.

4. Maya Devi Temple

Haridwar was once known as Mayapuri, which is because of Goddess Maya Devi. Dated to the 11th century AD, this ancient temple of Maya Devi, Goddess Adhishthatri Devi (Patron Goddess) of Haridwar is believed to be one of the Siddhapiths and is said to be where the heart and navel of Goddess Sati fell. It is one of the few ancient temples still standing in Haridwar, along with Narayani Shila Temple and Bhairav ​​Temple​​​​.

5. Bharat Mata Mandir

Bharat Mata Mandir is a famous multi-storied temple of mother India built to honour the devotion of all patriots and freedom fighters inaugurated in 1983 by late Prime Minister Indra Gandhi and has a total of 8 storied buildings built by Swami Satyamitran and Giri Temple. it truly reflects the true essence of our great nation.

6. Daksha Mahadev Mandir

Daksha Mahadev Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva located in the town of Kankhal, about 4 km from Haridwar, Uttarakhand, India. It is named after the Daksha king Prajapati, the father of Sati. Daksha is one of the fourteen Prajapatis, creator gods who preside over childbirth and are protectors of life in Hindu mythology. The present temple was built by Queen Dhankaur in 1810 and rebuilt in 1962. It is a place of pilgrimage for Shaivaite devotees on Maha Shivaratri.

Few other Temples & Ashram to visit

Piran Kaliyar, Neel Dhara Pakshi Vihar, Dudhadhari Barfani Temple, Sapt Rishi Ashram, Harihar Ashram, The Shri Chintamani Parshwnath, 

Some adventurous things to do in Haridwar

Kayaking

Love Kayaking then there is no better place than Rishikesh, a small town near Haridwar, one can take Auto or Bus service to reach Rishikesh interested in thrilling adventures. When you are a beginner or experienced it will give you an adrenaline boost to one.  However, some unfavourable conditions develop sometimes due to bad weather and you might not be able to do the rafting then.

Other adventures to do are as follow, Bungee Jumping, Giant Swing, Flying Fox, 

River Rafting. are some of the other adventurous things the on can do during its visit to Haridwar, 

Having a spiritual trip gives you inner peace of mind and soul. A short getaway to such a place can be the biggest stress buster. to make your travel more comfortable with HOURLYROOMS. a platform where users can book rooms hourly based Travelling can be tiring and hence, we have a solution for you. To find out more about Hourlyrooms, visit the website at hourlyrooms.co.in/ and don’t forget to download the Hourlyrooms app which is available on android and iOS. Happy Travelling.

[thereader-radhika]

2 - Pazhayarai

Nandini and Thiruveni have never been to such a big city. They held each other closely as if they feared that they'd lose each other in the hustle and bustle of the city. "Why is everyone screaming?", Thiruveni wondered. "You too are screaming akka", Nandini laughed. They weren't used to the loud non-chalant nature of these city dwellers.

There were big buildings everywhere. Some musicians were singing songs from Thiruvaimozhi. Some street vendors were inviting people to buy coconuts, flowers, sandal paste and betel leaves. "Do you want flowers, kanmani?", their mother asked. Nandini gazed at the jasmines and iruvatchi. Then she remembered that they don't have much money with them. "No amma, we will make some garlands later", Thiruveni said. Their mother sighed.

•-------------• Their cousin Esana Shiva Bhattar lived in a small house in the west of the city. His wife welcomed them heartily. "Oh my god! These little girls have grown up so much", she exclaimed. "Doesn't everyone get older as time passes?", Nandini rolled her eyes. "Ey, behave", Thiruveni patted her lightly. But their mother was having none of it.

"Haven't they? Even strangers have started to enquire if we aren't planning to marry off our girls. This man, my revered husband, doesn't have to hear anything. It is I who should answer everyone. My beloved son is wandering around beating up Shaivaites. Maybe he is the one who gets all the beatings!", she started ranting when the opportunity presented itself. Bhattar's wife consoled her that no Brahmin will suffer in the land of Sembiyan Madevi.

Sembiyan Madevi. Nandini has heard a lot about that reverent lady. The senior queen, aunt-in-law of the great Chola emperor Paranthaka Sundara Cholan. That widow continued living for the sake of their little son and spent all her time praying and renovating temples. She felt blessed that they are in the same town as this esteemed lady.

Bhattar's wife and Nandini's father were talking about visiting the senior queen with Eshana Bhattar. Since they were too tired by the long journey, they decided to rest today and visit her tomorrow. "Appa, Amma, Will you please take me to the palace? I want to see the Periya Piratti", Nandini requested. "Yes, yes, but now eat", Bhattar's wife smiled and poured some more curry into Nandini's leaf.

Thiruvaimozhi - A collection of hymns in praise of Lord Vishnu Kanmani - Apple of my eyes Periya Piratti - Senior Queen/Princess

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[famousplacesinindia]

The Thanumalayan Temple, also called Sthanumalayan Temple is an important Hindu temple located in Suchindram in the Kanyakumari district of Tamil Nadu, India. The Thanumalayan Temple is of importance to both Shaivaite and Vaishnavite sects of Hinduism, as the name Stanumalaya denotes Trimurtis; "Stanu" means Siva; "Mal" means Vishnu; and the "Ayan" means Brahma. https://www.instagram.com/p/BpyIdpGn0DZ/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=g9e8rjle410z

[mythologyganesha]

🚩 जय बाबा काशी विश्वनाथ🚩 ┈┉┅━❀꧁ω❍ω꧂❀━┅┉┈* ╔═══════════════════╗ ║ *🚩जयति काशी विश्वनाथ 🚩* ║ श्री बाबा काशी विश्वनाथ ज्योतिर्लिंग जी का ।। 13 मार्च 2022 ।। 🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹 🚩🔱 *हर हर महादेव* 🚩🔱 ╚═══════════════════╝ *┈┉┅━❀꧁ω❍ω꧂❀━┅┉┈ 🕉️🕉️🕉️🕉️🕉️🕉️🕉️ 🕉️ ॐ नमः शिवाय हर हर महादेव जय श्री ��हाकाल जय श्री महाकाल जय श्री महाकाल ॐ नमः शिवाय 🕉️ हर हर महादेव 🕉️ #mahakaal #mahakaleshwar #mahadev #mahakal #shaktipith #shiva #omnamahshivaya #om #bambam #bholenath#harharmahadevॐ #harharmahadev #ॐ#instagood#viral Shiva (Sanskrit- Auspicious One) is one of the main deities of Hinduism that is worshipped as the paramount lord by the Shaivaite sects of India.In Hinduism, Bhagwan Shiva is regarded as the representation of the Supreme Being. He is known as the third element in the Hindu Trinity (Trimurti), the other two members being Lord Brahma - the creator and Lord Vishnu - the protector. Shiva is the destructive form of the Almighty. As the cycle of destruction and recreation is always in a circle, Shiva’s primary responsibility is maintaining the life cycle. Scholars say, as the Mahakaal, Shiva destroys and dissolves everything into nothingness but as Shankara, he also reproduces that which has been destroyed and dissolved.Bhagwan Shiva is also considered to be the most unique of all Hindu gods and also the God of all. A great ascetic, Shiva is the only godhead who is forever in deep meditation, totally absorbed in contemplation in His abode, Kailaasa Mountain in the great Himalaya. Bhagwan Shiva is also said to be inseparable from Shakti - Parvati the daughter of Himavaan - Haimavati. There is no Shiva without Shakti and no Shakti without Shiva, the two are one - or the absolute state of being.Shiva is often shown with many faces, as creator, destroyer and preserver in total command of the cosmos. He contains both good and evil. He is moody, free of inhibitions, easy to please, protector of the down trodden, and has the power to alter the laws of destiny. Thus, it is Lord Shiva is known as the God of mercy and kindness. He protects his devotees from all evil that are always around us. He blesses his follow https://www.instagram.com/p/CbB_eMOgMzC/?utm_medium=tumblr

[devdhamyatra01]

In the sacred writings, Haridwar has been differently referenced as Kapilasthana, Gangadwara and Mayapuri. It is likewise a passage highlight the Char Dham, thus, Shaivaites (supporters of Lord Shiva) and Vaishnavites (devotees of Lord Vishnu) call this spot Hardwar and Haridwar individually, relating to Hara being Shiv and Hari being Vishnu.Rishikesh has been a piece of the incredible "Kedarkhand". Legends express that Lord Rama did retribution here for killing Ravana, the asura ruler of Lanka; and Lakshmana, his more youthful sibling, crossed the stream Ganges, utilizing two jute ropes at where the present 'Lakshman Jhula' (लक्ष्मण झूला) stands today......#rishikesh #uttarakhand #india #uttrakhand #dehradun #pahadi #haridwar #travel #uttarakhandheaven #nature #kedarnath #himalayas #photography #mountains #uttarakhandtourism #rishikeshdiaries #travelphotography #garhwal #diaries #incredibleindia #devbhoomi #yoga #almora #himachal #pithoragarh #love #pauri #uttarakhanddiaries #ganga #bhfyp