858 – Guru Stotram

A true teacher is compared to God, by his students. The word guru means remover of darkness. Homage is paid to God, the Guru of Guru. Guru mantras originate from various sources.

Guru Stotram from the Vishamsara Tantram (of which only portions survive today) the Guru Gita that is part of the Skanda Purana. The Guru Stotram is also ascribed to Adi Shankaracharya. Continue reading

832 – Maha Shivratri

I am sharing a mantra with you, dedicated to Shiva, seeking atonement and blessings.

Om namaste astu bhagvana visrvesrvaraya mahadevaya
Trayambakaya tripurantakaya trikalagnikalaya
Kalagirudraya nilakanthaya mrityumjayaya
Sarvesrvaraya sadashivaya sriman mahadevaya Namah.

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350 – Gauri Ganesha

Who is Ganesha’s mom, and who is his big sister? The festival of Ganesha Chaturthi is this year on the 31st of August. First let us understand who is who in the first family of the Gods. It is believed that Gauri is Ganesha’s sister, and she comes to visit him. Her arrival is celebrated with joy and happiness. As Gauri represents health, wealth, happiness, and prosperity. Continue reading