HINDUISM—SCIENTIFIC VIEW POINT
(Facts, beliefs, customs, rites and rituals etc.)
_ A P ANAND
FOREWORD:
Religion is a way of life with
unflinching faith adopting different modes of worship and traditions. It also
dispels our confusions and illusions and enlightens us for the truth, helps us
in God realization and thus conditions us in all spheres of life and ultimately
one attains virtues and bliss. Hindu religion is the oldest of all and is based
on science, health and wellbeing of mankind. Our gods and demi-gods have
demonstrated many mystical powers also. Hindus have always worshipped nature
which is display of splendid art work and blissful sight of the Supreme Lord,
the Creator and Artist, and the Aryans are well known for propagating and
practicing it for chastity. Unfortunately, the people are so engrossed in the
object matter for sense gratification that, if at all, they perform the rites
and rituals they are mere symbolic. The old religious books of the Hindus, in
fact, are the treasure of knowledge and Shrimad Bhagavad-gita surpasses them
all as it is an essence of all Upanisads. This valuable book is the science of
God and His creations and an authentic one of this oldest religion. It tells
us, distinctly, that performing right duty is our religion and we get results
according to our ‘karmas’ (actions). One does not get purity and good result
with personal sense gratification and material whirlpool except bondage. Hindu
religion never teaches persecution. Vedanta preaches sameness and equality for
all. There is no justification in differentiating people on the basis of caste,
creed, strength and wealth etc.
It is not out of place to mention
here that Bhagvad-gita has important place in our constitution also as we swear
to tell the truth in the courts in the name of this marvelous book. Hence this
book is a guide for all the religions on the earth and not for Hindus alone.
Only the study of Vedanta lifts our
lives from knowledge to wisdom and from bondage to freedom. Vedas teach us to
live happily, peacefully and purposefully. Knowledge is power. Thus both
science and religion are necessary for the upliftment of mankind and
alleviation of her sufferings. With knowledge of science one can achieve the
luxuries of life but not the peace of mind due to his unending cravings. It is
also badly exploited to create strife/ destruction for
others.
Religion alone can help us in attaining mental peace and bliss. Religion causes
unifying force for binding the mankind and compassion for all entities. The
whole Advaita philosophy is based on this. No doubt both religion and science
seek truth by toiling in depth, in the absence of which nothing can be
achieved. Truth can be achieved through learned persons and with their
blessings and kindness. By gaining strong faith in religion and knowledge one
becomes sublime and leads opulent life and also one’s way of thinking changes
for betterment.
We will backtrack and delve a bit
into Hindu religion and culture to enlighten the readers and to dispel some
misconceptions about this oldest religion. It is guaranteed that one who
follows the right path will not only relish the nectar of life but achieve
moksha (liberation/ salvation) also to ascend the Brahmaloka, ridding from the
cycle of metempsychosis.
Even the Egyptians, Greeks, Sudanese,
Iraqis, Chinese, Mexicans, Turks, tribal in Australia, Buddhists and Red
Indians have firm belief in the cycle of birth and death and a lot of
historical proof to this effect from ancient times, like pyramids and tombs
containing mummies is available today. These people also believe the mummies
kept in pyramids can be preserved for a very long time. The burials took place
with costly goods and attendants to enjoy life on rebirth. In Egypt the famous
pyramids are located at Giza, Saqqara and Dahshur. Around March, 2010 a carved
stone doorway, carved with religious texts (about 3500 years old) believed as a
threshold to the afterlife was unearthed near the Karnak Temple in Luxor, Egypt
belonging to the tomb of User, a powerful advisor to the 18 th. Dynasty queen
Hatshepsut. The Muslims (especially the Bohemian sect) equally, believe in
reincarnation by talking about hell and heaven. The theory of reincarnation in
Hinduism gives us a chance for the upliftment of our incomplete desires in the
next birth as well as to adopt and improve upon our spiritual life to get rid
of this cycle of birth and death.
The Parsis also believe that the
departed souls descend to the earth every year during ten day period of
“Farvardegan” (days of nourishment) when the community prays the souls of their
dear ones with offerings and thus pay their debts towards them and attain Mukti
(liberation)—true and abiding happiness.
EXPLANATIONS:
As said earlier, there are many confusions, misconceptions and criticism
about Hinduism. In fact there is no mention of the word “Hindu” in Gita, Vedas
and many other scriptures of the long past. We often call Hinduism as Sanatana
Dharma which simply means coming from the time immemorial or which exists for
ever and never perishes. Unfortunately, the so called “Pandits” (priests) of
the present era hardly know or are unequipped to explain the meaning and
purpose of the rites and rituals etc. of this Sanatana Dharma. The author has
attempted to prove in this short treatise that this Dharma(religious and
virtuous way of life through God realization) is purely based on science for
the welfare, peaceful, healthy and stress free life of the followers. It is a
known fact that there was no other Dharma or religion before this and all
religions of the present era emanated from Sanatana Dharma which can be called
as the foundation of all the religions. The followers of many other Dharmas
have, from time to time, tried to vanquish this Dharma due to their passion and
violent hatred but they have miserably failed in their unholy act. The Sanatana
Dharma is full of compassion, God fearing and tolerance (within limits) and
thus fructifies very well in spite of many hindrances and endeavors to weaken
it. This religion teaches us discernment and humanity which are its essence.
·
Bhagavad-gita
assures us that by adopting the right path shown by Lord Krishna of Chandra
Vansh, lineage of Moon God, one will get better opulent rebirth as a human
being. Lord Krishna is “BHAGWAN” because He possesses all opulence and is the
reservoir of all beauty like strength, fame, wealth, knowledge and
renunciation---Chapter 10, Text 1, Bhagavad-gita. A person gets birth according
to his/ her association of three gunas (qualities) i,e. passion, ignorance and
goodness.
·
Hindu
religion says that in this material world everything is temporary. It comes
into being, stays for some time, produces some by-products, dwindles and then
vanishes. Sanatana Dharma tells us that there is no beginning or end. One can
change religion but not Sanatana Dharma as liquidity cannot be taken out of
water, nor can heat be taken from fire. Thus this Dharma has no boundaries. It
also believes that there is no birth or death. There is only material change.
·
The
Hindus believe in the law of cause and effect by which we make our destiny
through thoughts, words and deeds. The soul takes birth again and again into
different entities according to our deeds or misdeeds till it is liberated only
due to virtuous deeds.
·
Rituals
are performed for spiritual growth step by step to come close to the Supreme
Lord who pervades everywhere. Worship and sacrifice encourage humility and
surrender for spiritual
growth and inner purification. Hindu ritualists believe in payment of five
debts_ to the rishis, the Devas, mankind, subhuman beings and the pitris
(manes) through yagna and begetting of offspring. The ‘Satvic’ (pure) devotee
will appeal to God for spiritual liberation or moksha with incense and flowers,
the ’Rajas’ (passionate) will pay homage with great pomp and show which causes
bondage from acting and the ‘Tamasic’ (wretched) will resort to animal
sacrifices and witch-craft (voodoo), which keep our thoughts unhealthy and
confused.
·
There
is belief in Hindu religion that if we perform certain rituals like ‘Pind-daan’
as oblation (offering of flour-balls/ rice-balls to fishes, crows, cows and
dogs etc. ) with Vedic mantras our manes (ancestors) will get liberation from
the cycle of birth and death and be transformed into the spiritual world for a
blissful eternal life, and we will get rid of our debts towards them. It is
believed that ‘Pitra Paksh’ (repayment of debt to ancestors) is more sacred
than Gods. The fortnight of ‘Pitra Paksh’ ceremony (also known as Krishna
Paksh) falls in the Hindu month of Ashwin i,e September/ October. Durga Pooja
also starts around this time which is considered auspicious for self and the
country. On ‘Omavas’ (pitch dark night) day performing pooja with rituals for
the peace of the departed souls is considered more significant especially when
performed in Gaya, Nasik, Allahabad and Hardwar. As per Bhagvad-gita when we
feed the Brahman (Hindu priest) we actually feed Lord Krishna as the Brahman
preaches the message of Gita.
·
Sometimes
sacrifices and rituals are performed for elevation to the heavenly kingdom or
for some material benefit in this world. Such acts are considered to be in the
mode of passion (causing distress, misery and disease). The sacrifices and
rituals performed according to the directions of the scriptures by those who
desire no reward is of the kind of goodness. Rituals purify the mind in order
to concentrate on the effort to reach the final goal of liberation. This is
explained in ‘Karma Kanda’ of Jaimini Maharisi who says that through rite and
rituals one gains material prosperity in this birth and ‘Swarga’ after death.
·
The
Hindus while visiting somebody’s house or a holy place take off their shoes at
the main door as they consider the shoes like dirty and unstable mind with
which one can-not achieve spirituality.
·
The
Hindus draw motifs of different designs as ‘Rangavali’ on the floor of
threshold of houses as this act keeps houses free from distress and
inauspiciousness according to their belief. The houses are considered as gifts
from God and as His abode. A lamp is lit at night near the ‘Rangavali’. The
‘Rangavali’ is drawn using rice floor to serve as food for insects and birds.
·
The
Hindus sprinkle water around their food-tray (thali) before eating to thank
Almighty for His blessings and also to avoid entry of any insects etc. to the
tray. In fact, before eating food we give offerings to Brahma (Lord of Creation)
by partaking a portion of it, considering Him a member of our family and
because He resides in our body and helps us in digesting the food. Such a food
becomes ‘Prasadam’ (sanctified food) from God. Also by doing so we remain
‘satvic’(pure) and healthy. God dwells in us and is thus worshipped in the form
of food and those who worship food as Brahma they get all food which is superb
of all beings. Food is life (Prana). Besides, the Hindus prefer to eat food on
a banana frond which keeps away their many bilious (stomach) disorders.
·
The
Hindus perform thread ceremony which is considered very pious and keeps away
the ‘Satan’ (Devil) who incites us every now and then to do wrong things in
life.
·
The
Hindus keep a tuft of hair over their head at a particular place which is
sensitive and acts as an antenna to receive and emit best signals of the mind.
·
We
give bath to the statues of the deities and drench them with water, milk and
curds etc. in consecration. These elements act as lubricants to make their life
long and durable by avoiding cracks formation and produce cooling effect for
deities. Water also acts as a cooling and cleansing agent, milk is symbol of
purity and sandal-wood paste applied on the statue spreads fragrance. With
these acts the statues start glowing also (emitting ‘tejas’). No Shiva Pooja is
complete without five elements or the five foods of immorality i,e milk,
clarified butter, curd, honey and sugar.
·
Some
people and especially staunch devotees cry loudly and wail with tears flowing
incessantly in passion before God while praying. This is not considered as
weakness but opening our heart before the Lord. The more we burst the more
heavy heart is shed away and we feel light and the mind becomes peaceful. It is
also to draw Lord’s attention towards us when we are in grave distress. Apart
from this we singe our past sins and resolve for virtuous deeds in future
before the Supreme Lord or our deity.
·
The
Hindu sages give menial jobs to their disciples to discipline them for adopting
spiritual life. The sages believe that concentration of mind is a key to
success in searching God. Eknatha was given such types of jobs by his guru
(preceptor), Janardana.
·
In
Shastras and Vedas it is mentioned that from Brahma came Manu and from him came
Rishis such as Bhargu and Marici. Manu wrote Manu Smriti which is a complete
law book covering Hindu life from birth till after death.
·
Manu
says that the house holder should propitiate (appease) the Rishis through Vedic
studies, Gods through ‘Homa’, manes through ‘Sraddha’, guests through serving,
Bhutas (spirits) through ‘ballies’(sacrifices). Sraddha performed on ‘Amavasya’
provides prosperity and
progeny happiness. On ‘Sraddha’ only the learned (Vedic) Brahman should be fed
and not the friends. Sraddha is performed at a lonely sacred place like bank of
a river, forest land or uninhabited place. While serving food to the Brahmins
in the name of manes one should not shed tears, feel angry and tell lies.
·
Manu
gives lofty position to Brahmana but also prescribes much heavier punishment
when he becomes a culprit.
·
Manu
says that though many Rishis were born in sub-human species still they got
prominence due to the superior semen they were born of and were thus adored and
regarded as superior most. At the same time Manu has given due importance to
heredity for character development.
·
In
Hindu religion there are many small and big festivals, all for making fun,
enjoyment and merriment. Some festivals are connected with some events and some
are for our refinement, purity and betterment. None is for wailing piteously or
being devoid, sedentary and sullen like some other religions. These festivals
also teach us that we should not worry for some trivial affairs but lead upbeat
happy and sanctified life, thus completely reformed.
·
Satvic
(pure) persons and sages wear white or ochre saffron coloured clothes as these
symbolize purity, chastity, renunciation, celibacy, sacrifice and spirituality.
·
The
word “Parmahansa” used before the names of enlightened souls is for those who
can discern when the things are in the form of a mixture i,e pairs of opposites
like vices and virtues, healthy and unhealthy, pure and impure etc. Hansa means
swan which can separate water from milk. In the same way use of number 108 is
very important in Hinduism. This number is greatly used for exalted souls like
Shri Shri 108.The beads in the rosary used by the Hindus are also 108 in
number. Gyatra Mantra which when decoded adds to 108. The Taittriya Samhita
(dated before 1000 BC) gives terminology for numbers of the order 10 to the
power 19. Also there are 108 main Upanisads (sacred scriptures of Hinduism).
Also seven is an auspicious number for it corresponds to Saptha Samundras
(seven seas), Saptha Varnas (seven colours), Saptha Swaras (seven notes) and
Saptha Rishis (seven sages).
·
It
is observed that in ancient times many Hindus went to different countries and
had a lot of influence of Hinduism and their culture in those countries. Like
India, Greece and Rome had many Gods and Goddesses etc. based on nature. Some
of them are described below:
Greek name Latin name Description
__________ _____________ _________________
Zeus
Jupiter
King of Gods
Hera Juno Queen of Gods (wife of Zeus)
Poseidon Neptune God of seas
Athena Minerva Goddess of wisdom and
handicrafts
Aphrodite Venus Goddess of love and
beauty
Apollo Apollo God of Sun and music
Ares Mars God of war
Hephaestus Vulcan God of Fire and Forge
Rhea (Earth) __ Mother of Gods
Fury __ One of the
avenging Goddess
·
Rudrakshas
(Botanical name: Elaeocarpus
Angustifolius) are found in different colours like black, white , red and
yellow and grown mainly in Nepal, Indonesia and Hardwar. The beads when worn on
different parts of the body after consecration and by chanting mantras as per
Shiv Puranam and Devi Bhagvatam help in relieving stress, heart ailments, circulation
of blood, insomnia, preventing fast ageing and improvement of digestive system
by soaking it over night in water and consuming water early in the morning.
These beads are available from one ‘mukha (mouth) to 14 mukhas. One mukha bead
identifies it with Lord Shiva and is the best for overall benefits. Other beads
also identify with many different “Devtas” (Gods) and absolve many sins, of
different kinds, of the wearer. Rudrakshas sprout from the tears of Lord Shiva.
Eleven faced Rudraksh is the symbol of Indra. It has got combined powers of
eleven gods stored in it. This enhances wealth, prosperity, long life and
desired siblings with name and fame of the wearer. The twelve faced Rudraksh
symbolizes Lord Vishnu and the wearer enjoys wealth, prosperity and worldly
pleasures. The wearer gets protection of all sorts of harms, diseases, sickness
and freedom of sins.
·
It
is believed that Sun God is seated on a chariot of seven wheels (representing
seven colours) and six spokes (representing six seasons).
·
A
person who cohabits with his wife after menstruation period as enjoined by the
Sastras gets desired issue of high order. It is firmly believed that the
process of nurturing/ grooming the child starts when the baby is still in the
womb of mother. The reason why it is stressed that the pregnant woman should
remain in comfort, happiness, sublime environment, listens holy mantras and be
in upbeat mood during the period to give birth to a perfect child and to cast
on him/her a good spell of virtuous ‘Karmas’ (actions). Later on the upbringing
of the child in school, college, family atmosphere, social surrounding and the
society on the whole make a lot of difference on the attitude, fate and success
etc. in life. Such a guided child will leave behind an unforgettable good
legacy for others to emulate.
·
Many
times the Hindus tie cotton threads to the trunks of most venerated trees of
Pipla and Banyan for their many useful qualities. They do so as a bond of
faith, hope and promise for the fulfillment of their wishes.
·
It
is a fact that Lord Krishna was very diplomatic and could solve many intricate
problems as he was consuming home-made butter which enhances the faculty of
intelligence. Also we offer ‘Channa’ (gram) and mustard oil in the temples of
Lord Hanuman as both enhance our strength and devotion like the Lord.
·
The
Hindus while meeting their friends, relatives, well-wishers and elders join
their both hands to show that the duality lies only in appearance but in
reality they are one, in union. They also, sometimes, bow their heads in
reverence instead of shaking hands or kissing each other to avoid direct
contact which causes diarrhea and other diseases due to dirt or filth etc.
·
We
fold hands before a guest/ relative or a friend etc. in a gesture of goodwill,
friendship, unity and respect and surrender (in an apology). Folding hands also
signifies that the person is without any weapon in hands and has no ill-will.
The Japanese bow their heads and in Western countries people hand-shake in the
same spirit. The Muslims greet each other by uttering the word “Salam” which
means peace and submission.
·
Why
temples? According to Hindu reckoning there are four ‘Yugas’ (eras), namely:
Sat Yuga (Krta), Treta, Dwapra and Kali. In Sat Yuga, there were no temples as
ordinary people could directly meet and interact with the gods. In Treta Yuga,
there was some degradation and the gods appeared in their real form and in the
form of icons. In Dwapra, the virtues and vices vied with each other and thus
the icons only were installed in the
temples in remote places. During Kali Yuga, the vices dominate heavily and thus
there is dire need of temples to retain the Divine image of gods to avoid
further degradation. The temples are shelters for refreshing the minds of the
weary souls imbibing deep faith and reverence. Temples are meant for sprouting
Bhakti (devotion) in aspirants. Vishnu temples should face North and three
stairs should be constructed to approach the temple symbolizing Sat, Cit, and
Ananda (truth, wisdom and bliss). The threshold of temples should have
Kalpavariksha carved. In Shiva temples the water-fall is always on the North
side indicating the ‘Dhru’ star (in the North) and shows and noblest position.
Also in Sastras, North is considered as life and liberation whereas South is
considered as death. Idols are not merely stones but stones of foundation of
Hindu Dharma. They are symbols of faith representing infinite Divinity. The
idols, through the cult, concentration, prayers and aspirations of the
devotees, are highly charged with energy.
·
Gold
is recommended in the sacred texts for enhancing the sanctity. There, the
pinnacles, goprums or sanctum sanctorums of the temples and Gurudwaras are made
of gold or gold-encrusted. Gold also helps the potency of the chanting of the
mantras.
·
The
Hindus, though believe in one Supreme Formless God still visit temples of
different deities as they think that their such actions amount to stepping
stones to reach Almighty, with sublimity and devotion, who, in fact, dwells in
themselves and also to attain concentration and to immerse deeply in
spirituality. It is very difficult to fix our mind in the Formless and
Attribute- less Lord, in the beginning the reason why we worship the statues of
gods/ goddesses at the initial stage. Spirituality requires will power to come
to the proximity of God. Spirituality gives answers to so many questions where
even science remains silent. By this way they surrender in totality, shed ego,
hatred and jealousy and imbibe love and compassion which are the basics for
universal brotherhood and also for changing their attitude towards life
resulting in complete transformation. The temples are considered as shelters/ refuge
for the weary souls where infinite and eternal bliss is granted to the
deservers. Those who have extended their hands towards God/ deities for help in
pure love and deep faith have found that Almighty, through His messengers
(deities), has fulfilled their wishes and has come to their rescue in the hour
of need. These temples become “tirthas” (places of pilgrimage) where unity and
integrity fructifies. The temple is a place of HOPE for the helpless and
hopeless.
·
Most
of Hindu temples and pilgrimage centres are located on hilly places for the
endurance and steadfastness of the arch devotees while climbing up and down
enabling them to face the vicissitudes of life gracefully. Also this penance
redeems their sins for salvation and religious tenets are exalted and
strengthened.
·
The
Hindus, whenever visit the holy places, take a vow to relinquish at least one
thing (habit) they love most for the sake of detachment or ‘Moha’ (of worldly
things) which are obstruction for true spiritual advancement. Lord Mahavira
even shed his clothes for the same reason. Some holy men smear their upper body
and forehead with ash after bath to remind us that in the end nothing remains
with us and we cultivate the habit of detachment.
·
It
is emphasized in the Hindu scriptures that chanting Lord’s name and glorifying
Him, like ‘Kirtna’ repeatedly in any form will purify us completely than by
adopting any other method.
·
While
performing prayers we light an oil lamp (‘diya’) containing five wicks which
represent five sense gratifying vices (Kama, Krodha, Moha, Maya and Lobha i.e.
passion, anger, attachment, wealth and greed respectively) to annihilate them.
·
The
Hindus circumambulate the deities/ temples in clockwise direction starting from
the face of temples as it is considered very auspicious.
·
Clapping
with hands is our routine affair in some one’s ovation or while performing
‘aarti’ (Hindu ritual of prayer) of deities and great souls. With this practice
we tone-up all the pressure points of our body for mental and physical well
being. Clapping due to some sudden pleasure changes our mind-set and our
actions (‘Karma’) are improved and thus even the fate lines of our hands change
for betterment. Also while praying, we hold the water in our hands and let go
means to have and not to hold.
·
We
offer Belva tree leaves (in triplets or triune) to Lord Shiva’s lingam as this
offering is considered for our body, mind and soul (in subtle form).
·
In
Hindu mythology the lotus flower has a great importance as though this flower
itself grows in quagmire it still remains above the water surface. In the same
way the divine persons/ saints even living in the vicious world still remain
virtuous and are beacon light for us. Also like the qualities of the lotus
flower they distinguish between good and bad, wrong and right and are the
embodiment of sweetness and love. The human navel of lotus shape (Padam nabhan
in Hindi) is also considered very beautiful. It is believed that Lord Krishna’s
navel resembled a petal of lotus. One whose hands (‘Hast Kamal’) and feet
(‘Padampad’) bear an icon of lotus petals is considered auspicious, divine and
revered most. Sri Krishna and Lord Buddha had such impressions. The eyes having
lotus-petalled shape (‘Padmanayana’) are considered most beautiful, charming
and express amorous glances. It is not out of place to mention here that once
when Lord Krishna was taking rest in a jungle at a place called Prabhasa
(Gujarat State in India) on the banks of river Saraswati with His face and legs
covered with the jungle foliage and the feet only visible, the hunter (behelia)
saw the image of the lotus petal on His foot, mistook it with an eye of a
gazelle (mirgnayana) and shot the divine foot of the Lord with his deadly arrow
and thus the Lord left His mortal coil there. Lord Krishna lost His life due to
curse of Gandhari (wife of Dhrtarashtra and mother of Kaurvas) of Mahabharta
epic because of His not reconciling/ pacifying and preventing war between
Kaurvas and Pandvas wherein all Kaurvas lost life.
·
Lotus
is regarded as a symbol of purity and possesses self-cleansing properties. It
is also eco-friendly. The water droplets rolling off a lotus leaf carry away
contaminating particles. Since lotus floats above the water level though it
grows in muck and mire, it is most pure and has teachings for us for
discernment. The reason why Goddess Lakshmi rides Lotus. The Hindu scriptures
say that Lord Brahma emerged from lotus which came out of Lord Vishnu’s navel,
·
While
urinating we wind the sacred thread (girdle) over our ears which helps in
proper flow of urine and wards off kidney diseases.
·
Jyot
(Luminosity-radiant and bright) in Hindi or “Noor” in Urdu is to awaken and
illuminate us and our inner thoughts. It is auspicious and a symbol of peace.
The Hindus also light one flame with another one to spread its effect and
message, in every nook and corner, including removal of darkness and ignorance.
Now people of other faiths have also followed suit. The culture has spread to
many countries. The first Olympic Games started in Athens (Greece) in the year
1896. The Jyot or flame or sacrificial fire is lit there with the rays of Sun
before start of games every time since then at Olympia (Greece) and taken to
the host country by the torch-bearers in relay as a symbol of peace and
good-will. Ships and planes are also used to take the “Jyot” to its destination
wherever necessary. In fact it is a Maha Jyot (great combined Jyot of all the
participating countries). The process also shows the importance of Sun God
(Apollo) and the continuity of ancient and modern games.
·
In
Hinduism it is believed that on birth day one is reborn with new enthusiasm and
change for betterment. To celebrate the occasion we light the candles, earthen
lamps (diyas) as a “Jyot” (flame) kept over or near the feast cake which is
very auspicious. It is not advisable to blow the “Jyot” to extinguish it with
mouth as the germs from mouth may fall on the cake and make it unhygienic to
eat. Also the “jyot” should not be blown at all but allowed to burn to spread
light and remove darkness, inner one of our hearts for enlightenment. The flame
represents awakening. At the end, all present should chant name of the chosen
deity/ Lord for blessings and celebrations should finally end with the well
wishes of all to the celebrity.
·
In
the eyes of the Hindus, the fire is very sacred as it remains pure even when
impurities are thrown in it. It consumes all sorts of impurities and that is
why “Havanas” (lighting sacred fire with chanting of hymns) are performed to
purify the environment. During “Havana” ceremony the following four rituals
have a great significance (1) Acamana—It is sipping of holy water and
confession of sins, in any form, in the recent past. (2) Marjana__It is
sprinkling of water on body indicating repentence of sins committed. (3)
Aghamarsana__It is for expiation of sins of many births. (4) Suryopasthana__it
is waiting upon the Sun God and glorification of God for invoking mercy and
grace.
·
Fire
has been revered and worshipped In many ancient cultures including Hindu
religion. It is purest of all elements on earth. Fire is the son of Ahura
Mazda, the spirit of the sun.It dispels the darkness, is compassionate while
under control and merciless when out of control. In many religions, including
Hindu religion, fire is considered as witness during marriage ceremony and is
never allowed to die out. Fire is also a test to try the innocent who will be
harmed if guilty or unharmed if innocent.
In Hindu culture,
Sita, Wife of Lord Rama, and Prahalada ( son of Hirnakapsu) ,nephew of
Holika,
had to undergo this test. Thus fire is symbol of purity, justice and truth.
·
Penance
and austerity for the sake of attracting people and receiving honour and
respect is a mode of passion and similarly penance with self-torture or to
destroy or injure others is an act of foolishness.
·
Manusmriti
prescribes that any religious ritual performed by the husband without the
company of wife is incomplete and imperfect. Also at the time of marriage the
couple pledges to give company to each other till end of life. The Hindus also
believe that after marriage half of the reward of virtuous actions of the
husband goes to his wife who at the time of marriage not only leaves her
parents and other dear ones but her lineage also in favour of her husband and
assimilates in his family. The reason why the husband wears two sacred threads,
one for himself and one for wife. Similarly, the sins committed by the wife are
shared by the husband equally who is fully responsible for her actions.
·
Rice
has got a great importance in Hindu rituals and spirituality as it is called
“aj” in Hindi which means that it does not grow (take birth) like wheat and
millet etc. Its saplings are transplanted in the field. We pray Lord/ deity,
while offering rice, to grant us liberation from the cycle of birth and death
and transform our lives like rice which does not grow again and again.
·
While
performing marriage, the bride and bride-groom shower the sacred grains (Akshata
or unbroken rice) on each other symbolizing pearls for this auspicious
occasion. Akshata is considered as mascot for bringing happiness, prosperity
and general well-being.
·
In
Hinduism, at the time of marriage ceremony, the bride and groom (under the
superbly bedecked canopy or Mandapam) take seven rounds (called “Saat Pheras”)
around the sacred fire in the presence of the priest, relatives and parents,
while chanting sacred ‘shalokas’, which means resolve and pledge as : First
round for food, second round for strength, third one for prosperity, fourth
round for happiness, fifth round for strong healthy children, sixth round for
longevity and the seventh one for devotion for each other. Also during this
ritual of “Saat Pheras” (circumambulation for seven times) around the altar by
the newly- weds, the boy garlands (called Mangal Sutra) around the neck of
young bride. This “Mangal Sutra” signifies that the bride is sacredly bonded
with the groom’s family for welfare. It also shows that the girl is now married
and wears this “Mangal Sutra” for whole life. The ceremony takes place not only
in the presence of parents, family members and relatives of both sides but also
as a witness in front of “Havan” (sacred fire) with ablutions of water
(also sacred act of washing off oneself) and by showing the mirror (being
reflection of mind) to the bride and groom, being their own consciousness, with
the chanting of sacred mantras by the priest. Besides, the bride and groom
exchange finger wedding rings which are a visible reminder of inward commitment
in hearts to remain faithful to each other.
* The Hindus consign
the dead body to the fire as our body is considered most valuable during life
time and offering it to fire, which is most pure, would amount to a Havana of
the highest order accruing a great spiritual effect to the departed soul as it
is consigned to the blazing fire with a lot of paraphernalia (causing purity)
and while chanting of mantras making the body as a sacrificial item in the form
of a Havana.
* The Hindus always
chant the name of God near the death bed so that the departed soul may merge
with his/ her final abode (God).
* The Hindus perform
some rituals and acts purely based on science and health. The dead body is
consigned to blazing flames for cosmic communion. This is explained in Rig
Veda. Also the fire destroys and creates the body during death and birth
respectively. Before placing the body on fire we spread ghee, chandan, til
(sesame seeds) and other herbs so that the surrounding bacteria are killed and
the atmosphere becomes pure. Also before consigning to flames, the dead body’s
mouth, nostrils and ears are plugged with cotton wads, soon after death so that
it does not swell and decompose due to air passage. The dead bodies of the
patients suffering from small pox and cholera are not burnt because even by
doing so the bacteria are not killed. Such bodies are only buried under ground
or immersed in flowing water. The Hindus immerse ashes of the burnt bodies in
holy Ganges or sea as they consider that by doing so one gets salvation from
the cycle of birth and death. As all the rivers converge into the sea, the sea
is considered the holiest one. It is worth mentioning here that the dead body
of a Hindu saint is only deep buried in the running water. At the same time the
Hindus place the head of a dead person on the funeral pyre towards North as
they believe, as per Shastras, that North side is for liberation of the soul.
They also give importance to the 13th. Day of the death as the soul
reaches the final destination on this day.
* Even at the death
of someone the Hindus, generally, wear white spotless clothes for the sake of
purity and sanctity.
* Face is the mirror
of our mind and we do so many acts to keep our mind and mood upbeat and
refreshing. The flowers help us in our this pursuit and to please God which is
essential to soak ourselves in spirituality. We offer flowers to the deities in
the form of petals and rosaries while chanting the sacred mantras. Merely by
looking at the blooming flowers we can spontaneously create spring, newness and
reverberation in our lives. When we visit gardens, especially in the morning,
the greenery with a puff of gentle air and sweet smell of smiling and blooming
flowers in different shapes and colours greet us and radiate pleasure for us.
This natural beauty, marvels and scene casts a magic spell on our mind and soul
elevating us in full form. We praise the Creator for His graces and bounties
bestowed on us throughout our life without any discrimination.
* On certain auspicious
occasions we exchange garlands. In fact we surrender and submit to the other
person with this ritual which is very necessary to win his/ her heart. It is
also a sign of reconciliation.
* Tulsi plant is
worshipped by the Hindus as it is beloved of Lord Vishnu. Sri Radha, daughter
of Vrsabhanu and Kalavati, worshipped Tulsi to attain divine love and vision of
Lord Krishna on the advice of her fast friend Candranana. By worshipping Tulsi
the Lord relented to give vision to Sri Radha. Not only this, on fifth of dark
fortnight of Vaisakha when Moon arose, the Lord did the ‘Rasa’ (dance) with
Radha and gopis in Vrindavan on the sandy banks of river Yamuna. During this
Rasa Leela, the Lord assumed many forms. The nymphs and gods rained the flowers
on them while Sri Krishna was rejoicing. Tulsi garden is bestower of all
desires and virtues and removes all sins. The wise men who plant Tulsi do not
see the face of Yama . Holy places like Puskara, rivers like Ganga and deities
like Vasudeva abide in the leaf of Tulsi. One who leaves his mortal coil along
with Tulsi flowers, even though he might have hundreds of sins in his account,
yet Yama cannot cast an eye on him. Also Sri Krishna remains under the spell of
Tulsi worshipper.
* In Vishnu temples
the holy water along with Tulsi leaves are given to the devotees as a
“Prasadam” (sanctified food) as Tulsi produces heat in our body. In the same
way Bilwa (or Bel) leaves are offered in Lord Shiva temples as these leaves
have cooling effect and Shiva associated with destruction of creations has the
element of fire. Both these leaves have many other properties beneficial to us.
* There is a great
importance and use of sesame seeds (‘Tila’) while performing ‘Havans’ (fire
sacrifices) by the Hindus. It is believed that these seeds had oozed out of
the body of Lord Vishnu or His incarnation, Lord Krishna.
While burning these seeds in ‘Havans’ they produce disinfectant fumes killing
harmful insects and germs. For the same reason few ‘tilas’ along with other
ingredients are sprinkled over the pyre of the dead bodies. It is also believed
that these seeds are the symbol of immortality. It is said that the gods drank
its wine a night before creating earth. In many other Hindu rites and rituals
these are burnt or eaten. The seeds produce heat in our body and are thus
widely eaten during winter season or offered to gods and manes in the form of
oblations. The speed is extremely useful for eye ailments, dental problems,
gout (for having sufficient contentment of calcium), urinary disorders, piles
and abdominal pains.
·
In many Hindu rites and rituals plain water
or Ganga Jal is used in the form of ablution as water is pure and sanctifies/
makes healthy our inner and outer bodies.
·
Kusa
grass is considered very sacred amongst Hindus. A legend goes that the sage
Valmiki materialized Lord Rama’s son from piles of Kusa grass when he seemed to
have been lost; henceforth, he became known by the name Kusa. Kusa is also used
in the rituals at the time of Graha Pravesa (house entry). A water pot is
placed in the house on a bunch of Kusa pointing eastward. During the marriage
ceremony the bridegroom is made to wear a ring of Kusa in his middle finger as
an auspicious emblem. Kusa mat is traditionally used to seat the bride and the
groom before they rise to take-up seven steps before the sacred fire. During
the Solar eclipse food items are covered with Kusa to save them from
contamination. During meditation sitting on Kusa mat protects us from earth’s
magnetic pull. The dying person is made to lie on a bed of Kusa so that his
soul ascends to heaven. A mixture of Kusa, sesame seeds and water is placed
near a dead person as an offering. Breaking of Kusa reeds in the cremation
ground symbolizes the severance of relations with the departed person. There is
another legend story about Kusha (elder) and Lava (younger) brothers. According
to Jaiminiya Mahabharta (Asvamedhika Parva), Chapter XXVI when a washer man
told his wife that he was not like Rama who accepted Sita even after she
remained in the house of Raksas (demons) of King Ravana, he (Rama) could not
bear the insult and sent Sita to thick forests for testing her chastity by
abandoning her even when she was pregnant and pure of sins. By chance she met
sage Valmiki in the forest who took her to his hermitage and where Sita gave
birth to her two children. Valmiki went to the place of birth (Chapter XXIX)
with fistful of Kusa and Lava two types of grasses for consecration along with
sprinkling water. That is how the children were named as Kusa and Lava.
·
The
holy rite of Mahakumbhabhishekam or consecration is of great significance. The
pots duly sealed are placed into the ‘gopuram’ (gateway) signifying the human
body, threads as the human nervous system, holy water as blood and coconuts as
human heads.
·
The
Hindus apply ‘Tilak’ (daub) on their forehead as it causes sensation for
concentration and charges the batteries of our mind which is very necessary to
connect ourselves with Almighty. Also the daub of Chandan (Sandal wood) keeps
our brain cool. They also apply little ash obtained from the holy fire lit in
temples to their forehead as repentance for their sins as Christians do in the
period of Lenten Season.
·
Amongst
Hindu married women there is a custom and considered auspicious to put Kum Kuma
(prepared by mixing Haldi powder i,e Turmeric with lime juice) at the meeting
point of eye-brows (called Ajna Cakra) and on the forehead. Ajna Cakra is the
centre/ origin for emotions like anger, jealousy, lust and greed etc. and thus
putting Kum Kuma there will control the emotions. Sindura or Vermilion is
prepared by mixing Haldi with red-lead. It has antiseptic properties. It is
believed the goddess Lakshmi resides at the hair parting of women and thus
Sindura is applied there as a symbol of worship of goddess. It is not out of
place to mention here that Lord Hanuman liked Sindura very much and thus his
idol is smeared with it.
·
The
followers of Lord Shiva display three-pronged trident, in the form of three
horizontal lines of Chandan (Sandal wood) paste, on their forehead which speak
Lord’s governance representing non-attachment, knowledge and spiritual
absorption. In the same way, the followers of Lord Vishnu display three
vertical lines over their forehead.
·
We
kowtow (prostrate) before a deity or a holy person to surrender in entirety and
are thus bound to get blessings, favours, benedictions and forgiveness. Also we
place our head on the feet of noble persons and touch and kiss their hands and
feet etc. as it attains extreme sanctity by doing so and to annihilate our ego
and consider ourselves as the lowest of the low. The prostration instills in us
humility (Vinaya) which is considered as spiritual wealth.
·
We
bow our head before the deity or the sacred place not only as a mark of respect
but to imbibe flexibility, tolerance, favourable change in our attitude and
gentleness in our life also. Besides, we get blessings from Almighty and thus
lead coherent blissful life.
·
The
Hindus and Sikhs while entering temples and Gurudwaras, first, remove their
shoes, wash their hands, face and feet for purity. Also they cover their heads
and do not show their backs to the deity/ altar inside the sacred place as a
mark of respect. They come out completely cleansed, pure, rejuvenated and with
vibrations of sacred shalokas/ mantras/ discourses and other sweet words of
Gurbani performed in the place and imbibe the message/ teachings in their lives to
make themselves worthy. The Hindus and Sikhs get the marble slabs embedded in
the floors of temples/ Gurudwaras etc. with their names engraved on them so
that their egoism in the form of name, fame, and might is annihilated and
trampled upon after coming under the pious and sacred feet of the devotees, off
and on.
·
In
gurudwaras and temples people clean and wash used dishes in ‘Langar’ (free
kitchen), polish shoes of the devotees, sweep and mop the floors at their own
will as ‘Kar sewa’ (selfless service without payment as servitors) etc. to show
and prove equality and curb their might and egoism. Even the defaulters of
religious ethics are punished and asked to do such menial jobs for the same
reason and their atonement as well. Even the person holding highest position in
public and private life is not spared if he is proved guilty. Kar Sewa also
brings the doer closer to God as service to society and needy means service
unto God. One should serve like Nature without expecting any reward and by
chanting Lord’s glory.
·
There
is a custom amongst Hindus that whenever they visit some holy land, they apply
the dust of that land to their forehead as the land is anointed by the
foot-steps of the divine people and thus the visitors’ life is charged with
virtues and divinity.
·
The
Hindus believe that while visiting temples and holy places if incessant tears
roll down on our face, it indicates that our sins are singed in atonement.
·
The
Hindus while performing ‘Aarti’ (prayer before a deity or a sacred soul) burn
camphor not only for spreading fragrance but also for dissolution of the ego as
when it burns it withers away in no time, leaving no residue at all.
·
The
conch shell is widely blown during Hindu rituals. These shells are of two types
namely, right swelled and left swelled. The right swelled conch is open to left
side, its mouth is open and it is used for blowing while worshipping. The right
oriented conch is auspicious. The conch sound has purifying effect and removes
pollution in the air. The sound also kills bacteria in the air. Blowing a conch
with mouth gives good exercise to lungs. Hearing conch’s sound very often
avoids heart attack. Various medicines are prepared with conch shell for
diseases like colic pain, leucorrhea, cholera and cough etc. It is pure calcium
used in preparation of tooth powders/ pastes.
·
In
Hinduism the word OM is considered the Supreme Divinity. Though Hindus worship
numerous deities, utterance of OM gives the result of worship of all deities.
Hence OM is unity in diversity. OM is the first sound which emanated at the
beginning of the universe as Nada Brahma and the entire creation, (Panca Bhuta
i,e earth, water,fire, air and space) came out of it. Hence OM is called
Pranava. OM is Saguna in the form of letter and sound but Nirguna, reflecting
the infinite Divinity. Sri Krishna mentions in
Bhagavad Gita that He is OM and that one who utters OM with
feeling of Divinity at the time of death attains Him. The word OM has been
adopted in many religions of the world. It was adopted in Latin as OMNIS
representing all pervasive God, described later as Omnipresent and Omniscient.
The word OM comprises of four parts Akara, Ukara, Makara and the last Bindu (in
Sanskrit symbol) as the tapering sound. OM is to be uttered in one continuous
sound, starting from Nabhi (navel), pass through heart, throat and brain and to
leave through Sahasrara, as if merging the individuality into infinity. Though
most of us cannot recite Veda Mantras, utterance of OM, amounts recitation of
Vedas. OM is the basic sound I,e Nada from which all sounds have risen. It is
the core of all music. The sound of Sankha, Venu, Bheri etc. reflect OM. Even
chirping of birds, roar of sea, fury of wind reverberate OM in varies forms. OM
drives away negative thoughts, strengthens nervous system and creates more
energy in the body. It reduces sound pollution.
·
In
olden days people in India, Hindus in particular, used to keep their entrance
doors of low height so that the visitor should bend himself low as a mark of
respect, submission and piety to the house he was visiting.
·
We
observe an icon of tortoise at the entrance of Hindu temples. Tortoise is
capable of squeezing its internal body, at will, being flexible. It is a symbol
of submission. Hence it is installed at the main entrance as a reminder to the
devotee for his act of surrender, shedding ego and submission to the deity.
·
The
soft skin of the lion and dear is tucked under the seat to curb/ shed mighty
pride and ego.
·
Tonsuring
of head indicates having shrugged off the ego of tutelage of the manes. This
ritual is performed during “Pitra Paksha” period of the year in the memory of
our manes or on the death of an elderly person in the family or on a visit to a
holy place where we take a vow of casting off our ego or due to the fulfillment
of some wishes.
·
The
Hindus do not encourage killing of birds and animals etc. for food as the food
we eat has a lot of effect on our body and mind. Satvic (pure) food has
beneficial effect. If we torture and outrage an animal it will curse us and by
eating it our whole body and mind will contain impurities and curses. The
reason why the Hindu religion advises us to eat vegetarian food. Even garlic
and onion which have hot effect are ‘tamasic’ (passionate) food. Besides,
mushrooms and vegetables produced from impure ground are not advised for
consumption. The Chandogya Upanisad explains fully about the effects of food we
eat. The great Sage Patanjali stresses consumption of vegetarian food for
attaining spiritualism and non-violence. All other Hindu scriptures like Vedas,
Smritis and Gita etc. emphasise on this. Satvic food is the one which has been
prepared with pure and unstinted material, body, mind/ intentions and not
through ill-
earnings or curses of some one. Also before taking the first
morsel, the Satvic person will ponder well on such counts to satisfy himself
about the purity/ sanctity of the food. Impure food has subtle effect on our
body and mind.
·
‘Anna’
(grain) is ‘prana’ (life). One who wants to become rich should never disregard
‘Anna’ i,e he will never misuse, cross over, abandon or leave as remains in the
plate. One should give due respect to what one desires. Water, earth and light
are also ‘Anna’ as they are part of it.
·
The
devout Hindus, Jains and Buddhists firmly believe in, propagate and profess
‘Ahimsa’ (non-violence). Ahimsa believers refrain from not only killing of any
life but causing any pain and injury also. They are also against hurting anyone
by mind and speech. The Hinduism teaches life of harmony and tolerance towards
all religions/ sects and that is why the Hindus very often pay due regards to
the prophets/ religious heads of other religions. The Hindus are not supposed
to tolerate injustice. They are advised to fight for the right cause and this
was the essence of marathon sermon delivered by Lord Krishna to the great
learned warrior, Arjuna, in the battlefield of Kurukshetra.
·
Hinduism
discourages commitment of suicide as premature death will cause more pain and
suffering to the doer in his/ her next birth according to the theory of
‘Karmas’ (actions). The deeds, good or bad, of the doer will definitely have
effect on him/ her during this life or next life. Of course, ill-effects of
Karma can be reduced by surrendering oneself to the service of Supreme Lord. An
act of suicide is also considered as cowardness and escapism.
·
In
Hinduism a woman has a foremost place like Sita Ram, Radha Krishna and Lakshmi
Narayana etc. Mothers are divine, highly noble, kind hearted and virtuous. They
manifest Mother Nature without expecting any reward. One should serve mother
whole-heartedly. Mother who nurtures us can take our worries and sufferings
over her to make our life cozy and comfortable. We are her blood and flesh and
this bondage is unbreakable. Manu Samriti (Hindu Law Book) says that woman
should never be allowed to be free by their male guardians day and night as
they are magnetized by the sense objects. They should be kept under one’s own
control. This looks strange in the present era when the woman has become
independent.
·
The
Hindus give more importance to the female than to male and that is why Durga
who is considered as ‘Shakti (Power) is worshipped during ‘Navratra’ (nine
nights) festival with ‘garba’ dances. In the same way, Lakshmi (Goddess of
wealth) and Saraswati (Goddess of Learning) are also revered and worshipped.
There are many other goddesses who are worshipped and have temples throughout
India and abroad for the devotees to pray
for gaining their favour and grace. Even now in some parts of India the men
call their daughter as ‘Amma’ (mother) as they give equal respect to both.
There are 51 Shakti Pithams (seats of power) all over India devoted to many
goddesses. In the pre-Vedic period “Sri” was the goddess of fertility, water
and agriculture. The reason why the Hindus still use the prefix of word “Sri”
to the names they revere most. Yagnas are considered incomplete without the
participation of a spouse. Rama performed Asvamedha Yagna by placing a golden
idol of Sita by his side as Sita was banished to a forest at that time.
·
In
Vedas a lot of importance is given to parents and thus it is said, “Mathru Devo
Bhava”, “Pithru Devo Bhava” which means; revere the mother and father as God.
It should be kept in mind that even our body is the gift from our parents. Also
in Hindu religion the words “Shrimati” and “Shri” are used for a woman and a
man. Shrimati means Bhavani (steadfast devotion) and Shri means Shankara
(faith). The divinity is the combination of Bhavani and Shankara.
·
Amongst
Hindus, in the glorious past, the relations between the Guru (preceptor) and
Shishya (student) have traditionally been remained exemplary, harmonious and
love abiding. The Guru’s status is next to the parent’s as he is remover of
darkness and shows his student the right path to lead perfect, ‘satvic’ (pure),
luminous and virtuous life. We can receive grace of the preceptor only if we
obediently follow his teachings. This is the best way to redeem our lives,
“Guru Purnima”, though symbolic nowadays, is celebrated on the birth-day of
great Rishi (sage) Ved Vyasa (who authored Vedas and Puranic Adhyatma Ramayana
glorifying the real and mystical life of Lord Sri Rama of Surya Vansh—lineage
of Sun God as narrated by Lord Shiva to His consort, Goddess Parvati for Her
inquisitive questions) which falls on the first full moon of the Hindi month
Ashaadh, around June-July. Ved Vyas’s real name was Krishna Dyaipayana. Also on
this auspicious day people throng the temples of their choicest deities with
offerings for performing pooja (prayer) and giving thanks and receiving
blessings. Besides, the ‘shishyas’ pay their respect and offerings to their
‘guru’ (preceptor) on this day. For a married woman her husband is the perfect
guru and protector. Some of the famous gurus are enumerated below :
Lord Rama’s guru was sage Vasishta.
Lord Krishna’s gurus were Durvasa and
Sandipni (living in outskirts of Kampilya).
Kaurvas and Pandvas guru was Darona
Acharya.
Arjuna’s guru was Lord Krishna.
Mira’s guru was Swami Ravidas (son of
a cobbler).
Bhagat Kabira’s guru was Ramananda.
Eknatha’s guru was sage Janardana.
Indra’s guru was Brahaspati.
Baiju Bawara and Taan Sen’s guru was
Haridas.
Bulleh Shah’s (Sufi saint) guru was
Shah Inayat.
Shiva Ji’s guru was Swami Ramdas.
Surdasa’s guru was Vallabhacharya.
Swami Vivekananda’s guru was Swami
Rama Krishna Parmahansa.
Sant Tulsi Das’s (original birth
name: Rambola) guru was Sant Narhari Das.
Narda Rishi’s guru was Narayana
Rishi.
·
In Vedas we have the science of mathematics
and astronomy. Also these very old Vedas tell us how to make iron and steel. Alchemy tells us
how to convert base metals into gold. Thus the Aryans were very civilized
followers of Vedic culture for spiritual and scientific advancement. Predicting
the events with the knowledge of palmistry, astrology, astronomy and weather
etc. we can forestall and neutralize the unfavourable events and tune our life
with natural law. Besides, while constructing the houses as per ancient
principles of ‘Vastu Shastra’ we can ward off many evil spirits and destructive
effects of stars and planets and rather gain their forgiveness and favours as
this ‘Shastra’ is in coherence with cosmic law, promoting positive evolutionary
influences. Also adhering to ‘Vast Shastra’ one leads to energetic life,
comfort, security, harmony, positive influence and disease free life. In
business it gives great turn-over, success, good luck and conducive growth etc.
The slope of the land for the buildings should be towards East or North to
bring good luck. The main entrance of the building/ house should face East to
let-in sufficient sun rays. In the same way one should sleep with head towards
West or South. No cremation places, high tension wires, mountains or sky
scrapers should be located towards East side of dwellings.
E/120, “VIRGO”, LOWER KHARODI, MARVE ROAD, MALAD(W),
MUMBAI-400 095 (Ph:022 28620872)---Email:anandpanand@yahoo.com
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