Terms we associate with Hinduism—"Hinduism," "religion," and "India"—are all Western creations, notions that for most of history did not accurately reflect the thinking of those who practice this most ancient of the great faiths.

In fact, one of the primary themes of Professor Mark W. Muesse's lectures is the difficulty of studying Hinduism without imposing Western perceptions on it.

In Hinduism you will find a religion that is perhaps the most diverse of all, that worships more gods and goddesses than any other, and which rejects the notion that there is one path to the divine.

A Window into All Religions
These lectures provide a window into the roots of not only this religion, but perhaps all religions. You will explore over the course of Hinduism's 5,000-year journey:

* The Indus Valley civilization
* The huge variety of Hindu gods and goddess
* The sacred writings in the Vedas, the Bhagavad-gita and the Upanishads
* Ritual purity rites
* The Aryan language of Sanskrit, whose roots can be seen in English words such as "divine," "video," and "ignite."

The story of Hinduism is the story of very un-Western traditions—arranged marriages and the caste system—that have survived and thrived for thousands of years; and of a wealth of gods, terms, and practices—karma, Krishna, yoga, guru—that have found a home in Western lives and language.

The course also explains that Hinduism rejects the notion that there is only one path to the divine, and at its best, it honors all seekers of truth.

Course Lecture Titles

* 1. Hinduism in the World and the World of Hinduism
* 2. The Early Cultures of India
* 3. The World of the Veda
* 4. From the Vedic Tradition to Classical Hinduism
* 5. Caste
* 6. Men, Women, and the Stages of Life
* 7. The Way of Action
* 8. The Way of Wisdom
* 9. Seeing God
* 10. The Way of Devotion
* 11. The Goddess and Her Devotees
* 12. Hinduism in the Modern Period

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Source: http://www.lazydesis.com/e-books/270067-great-world-religions-hinduism-audiobook.html#ixzz1JCamNHiR

Shree Guru Charan Saroj Raj,Nij Man Mukar Sudhari,Raghuvar Bimal Jasu, Jo dayaku Phal Chari
With the dust of Guru's Lotus feet,I clean the mirror of my mind and then narrate the sacred glory of Sri Ram Chandra, The Supereme among the Raghu dynasty. The giver of the four attainments of life.

Budhi heen Tanu Janike, Sumirow, Pavan Kumar,
Bal Buddhi Vidya Dehu Mohi, Harahu Kalesh Bikaar

Knowing myself to be ignorent, I urge you, O Hanuman, The son of Pavan! O Lord! kindly Bestow on me strength, wisdom and knowledge, removing all my miseries and blemishes.

Jai Hanuman Gyan Guna Sagar Jai Kipis Tihun Lok Ujgaar

Victory of Thee, O Hanuman, Ocean of wisdom and virtue, victory to the Lord of monkeys who is well known in all the three worlds

Ramdoot Atulit Bal Dhamaa, Anjani Putra Pavansut naamaa.

You, the Divine messager of Ram and repository of immeasurable strength, are also known as Anjaniputra and known as the son of the wind - Pavanputra.

Mahebeer Bikram Bajrangi, Kumati Nivaar Sumati Ke Sangi.

Oh Hanumanji! You are valiant and brave, with a body like lightening. You are the dispeller of darkness of evil thoughts and companion of good sense and wisdom.


Kanchan Baran Biraaj Subesaa, Kanan kundal kunchit kesa.

Shri Hanumanji's physique is golden coloured. His dress is pretty, wearing 'Kundals' ear-rings and his hairs are long and curly.

Hath Bajra Aur Dhvaja Birjai, Kandhe Moonj Janeu saage.

Shri Hanumanji is holding in one hand a lighting bolt and in the other a banner with sacred thread across his shoulder.

Shankar Suvna Kesari Nandan, Tej Pratap Maha Jag Vandan.

Oh Hanumanji! You are the emanation of 'SHIVA' and you delight Shri Keshri. Being ever effulgent, you and hold vast sway over the universe. The entire world proptiates. You are adorable of all.

Vidyavaan Guni Ati Chatur, Ram Kaj Karibe Ko Atur

Oh! Shri Hanumanji! You are the repository learning, virtuous, very wise and highly keen to do the work of Shri Ram,

Prabhu Charittra Sunibe Ko Rasiya, Ram Lakhan Sita man basyia.

You are intensely greedy for listening to the naration of Lord Ram's lifestory and revel on its enjoyment. You ever dwell in the hearts of Shri Ram-Sita and Shri Lakshman. Sukshma roop

Dhari Siyahi Dikhwana, Bikat roop Dhari Lank Jarawa

You appeared beofre Sita in a diminutive form and spoke to her, while you assumed an awesome form and struck terror by setting Lanka on fire.

Bhim roop Dhari Asur Sanhare, Ramchandra Ke kaaj Savare.

He, with his terrible form, killed demons in Lanka and performed all acts of Shri Ram.

Laye Sajivan Lakhan Jiyaye, Shri Raghubir harashi ur laye.

When Hanumanji made Lakshman alive after bringing 'Sanjivni herb' Shri Ram took him in his deep embrace, his heart full of joy.

Raghupati Kinhi Bahut Badaai, Tum Mama Priya Bharat Sam Bahi.

Shri Ram lustily extolled Hanumanji's excellence and remarked, "you are as dear to me as my own brother Bharat"

Sahastra Badan Tumharo Jas Gaave, Asa kahi Shripati Kanth Laagave.

Shri Ram embraced Hanumanji saying: "Let the thousand - tongued sheshnaag sing your glories"

Sankadik Brahmadi Muneesa, Narad Sarad Sahit Aheesa

Sanak and the sages, saints. Lord Brahma, the great hermits Narad and Goddess Saraswati along with Sheshnag the cosmic serpent, fail to sing the glories of Hanumanji exactly

Jam Kuber Digpal Jahan Te, Kabi Kabid Kahin Sake Kahan Te

What to talk of denizens of the earth like poets and scholars ones etc even Gods like Yamraj, Kuber, and Digpal fail to narrate Hanman's greatness in toto.

Tum Upkar Sugrivahi Keenha, Ram Miali Rajpad Deenha

Hanumanji! You rendered a great service for Sugriva, It were you who united him with SHRI RAM and installed him on the Royal Throne.

Tumharo Mantro Bibhishan Maana, Lankeshwar Bhaye Sab Jag Jaana.

By heeding your advice. Vibhushan became Lord of Lanka, which is known all over the universe.

Juug Sahastra Jojan Par Bhaanu, Leelyo Taahi Madhur Phal Jaanu

Hanumanji gulped, the SUN at distance of sixteen thousand miles considering it to be a sweet fruit.


Prabhu Mudrika Meli Mukha Maaheen, Jaladhi Langhi Gaye Acharaj Naheen.
Carrying the Lord's ring in his mouth, he went across the ocean. There is no wonder in that.

Durgam Kaaj Jagat Ke Jeete, Sugam Anugrah Tumhre Te Te.
Oh Hanumanji! all the difficult tasks in the world are rendered easiest by your grace.

Ram Duware Tum Rakhavare, Hot Na Aagya Bin Paisare.
Oh Hanumanji! You are the sentinel at the door of Ram's mercy mansion or His divine abode. No one may enter without your permission.

Sab Sukh Lahen Tumhari Sarna, Tum Rakshak Kaahu Ko Darnaa.
By your grace one can enjoy all happiness and one need not have any fear under your protection.

Aapan Tej Samharo Aapei, Tanau Lok Hank Te Kanpei
When you roar all the three worlds tremble and only you can control your might.

Bhoot Pisaach Nikat Nahi Avei, Mahabir Jab Naam Sunavei.
Great Brave on. Hanumanji's name keeps all the Ghosts, Demons & evils spirits away from his devotees.

Nasei Rog Hare Sab Peera, Japat Niranter Hanumant Beera
On reciting Hanumanji's holy name regularly all the maladies perish the entire pain disappears.

Sankat Te Hanuman Chhudavei, Man Kram Bachan Dhyan Jo Lavei.
Those who rembember Hanumanji in thought, word and deed are well guarded against their odds in life.

Sub Par Ram Tapasvee Raaja, Tinke Kaaj Sakal Tum Saaja
Oh Hanumanji! You are the caretaker of even Lord Rama, who has been hailed as the Supreme Lord and the Monarch of all those devoted in penances.

Aur Manorath Jo Koi Lave, Soi Amit Jivan Phal Pave.
Oh Hanumanji! You fulfill the desires of those who come to you and bestow the eternal nectar the highest fruit of life.


Charo Juung Partap Tumhara, Hai Parsiddha Jagat Ujiyara.
Oh Hanumanji! You magnificent glory is acclaimed far and wide all through the four ages and your fame is radianlty noted all over the cosmos.


Sadho Sant Ke Tum Rakhvare, Asur Nikandan Ram Dulare.
Oh Hanumanji! You are the saviour and the guardian angel of saints and sages and destroy all the Demons, you are the seraphic darling of Shri Ram.


Ashta Siddhi Nau Nidhi Ke Data, Asa Bar Din Janki Mata.
Hanumanji has been blessed with mother Janki to grant to any one any YOGIC power of eight Sidhis and Nava Nidhis as per choice.

Ram Rasayan Tumhare Pasa, Sadaa Raho Raghupati Ke Dasa.
Oh Hanumanji! You hold the essence of devotion to RAM, always remaining His Servant.

Tumhare Bhajan Ramko Pavei. Janam Janam Ke Dukh Bisravei.
Oh Hanumanji! through devotion to you, one comes to RAM and becames free from suffering of several lives.


Anta Kaal Raghubar Pur Jai, Jahan Janma Hari Bhakta Kahai.
After death he enters the eternal abode of Sri Ram and remains a devotee of him, whenever, taking new birth on earth.


Aur Devata Chitt Na Dharai, Hanumant Sei Sarva Sukh Karai
You need not hold any other demigod in mind. Hanumanji alone will give all happiness.


Sankat Kate Mitey Sab Peera, Jo Sumirei Hanumant Balbeera
Oh Powerful Hanumanji! You end the sufferings and remove all the pain from those who remember you.

Jai Jai Jai Hanuman Gosai Kripa Karahu Gurudev Ki Naiee
Hail-Hail-Hail-Lord Hanumanji! I beseech you Honour to bless me in the capacity of my supreme 'GURU' (teacher).


Jo Sat Baar Paath Kar Koi, Chhutahi Bandi Maha Sukh Hoi.
One who recites this Hanuman Chalisa one hundred times daily for one hundred days becames free from the bondage of life and death and ejoys the highest bliss at last.


Jo Yah Padhe Hanuman Chalisa, Hoy Siddhi Sakhi Gaurisa
As Lord Shankar witnesses, all those who recite Hanuman Chalisa regularly are sure to be benedicted


Tulsidas Sada Hari Chera, Keeje Nath Hriday Mah Dera.
Tulsidas always the servant of Lord prays. "Oh my Lord! You enshrine within my heart.!
Chopai

Pavan Tanay Sankat Haran , Mangal Murti Roop.
Ram Lakhan Sita Sahit, Hriday Basahu Sur Bhoop.

O Shri Hanuman, The Son of Pavan, Saviour The Embodiment of blessings, reside in my heart together with Shri Ram, Laxman and Sita

Location : Island Of Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu
Deity Worshipped: Linga Of Sri Ranganatha
Tradition: A Pilgrimage To Kashi Is Not Considered Complete Without A Pilgrimage To Rameshwaram
Significance: One Of The 12 Jyotirlingas Of India

Rameshwaram is an island situated in the gulf of manner at the very tip of the Indian peninsula. A very important pilgrim centre of the Indians. Rameshwaram is the place from where Lord

Rama, built a bridge across the sea to rescue his consort Sita, from her abductor, Ravana. This is also the place where Rama worshipped Lord Shiva to cleanse away the sin of killing Ravana. Both the Vaishnavites and Shaivites visit this pilgrimage which is known as the Varanasi the south.

Rameshwaram is significant for the Hindus as a pilgrimage to Benaras is incomplete without a Pilgrimage to Rameshwaram. The presiding deity is the Linga Of Sri Ranganatha, which happens to be one of the twelve Jyotirlingas of India. Rameshwaram is also popularly referred to as the 'Benaras of the south'. In order to attain Moksha it is believed that the visit to Rameshwaram is mandatory.

Mythological History:
According to the Hindu mythology i.e. the story of Ramayana Lord Rama performed thanksgiving rituals to Lord Rama after the battle at Sri Lanka and his triumph over the demon king Ravana. Owing to this Rameshwaram attracts Vaishnavites (worshippers of Lord Vishnu) and Saivites (worshippers of Lord Shiva) alike.Sri Lanka is at a distance of 24 kilometers from Rameshwaram. In fact the entire area of Rameshwaram is associated with various incidents from the Ramayana. Rameshwaram happens to one of the most visited pilgrim sites in India.

Location and Area:
The religious island is spread in an area of 61.8 square kilometers and happens to be in the shape of a conch. The Ramanatha Swamy Temple occupies major area of Rameshwaram.The masterpiece of Dravidian architecture boasts of the largest temple corridor in India. Different rulers built the Ramanatha Swamy Temple over a period of time starting from the 12th century. The temple comprises of twenty-two wells where the taste of the water of each well is different from the other.

Pilgrimage Attaractions of Rameshwaram:
Ramanathaswamy Temple
Ramnathswamy temple was built in the 17th century. Situated close to the sea on the eastern side of the island, this temple is famous for its 1200 gigantic granite columns. The 54 metre tall gopuram (gate-tower), 1220 metres of magnificent corridors and the flamboyant columns embellish and render fame to the temple. The water in each of the 22 sacred wells in the temple tastes different.
Agnitheertham
100 metres away from the temple is Agnitheertham, where Rama worshipped Lord Shiva, to absolve himself from the killing Ravana.
Gandamadana Parvatham
The imprint of Lord Rama's feet placed on a Chakra (wheel) is found in this shrine which is at the highest point on the island at 2 km from Rameswaram.
Dhanushkodi
Dhanushkodi named after Rama's bow, is at the eastern end of the island at a distance of 8 kms from Rameshwaram. The boulders around the sea between Srilanka and this place known as Adam's bridge, are believed to be used by Hanuman to reach across Srilanka. Dhhanushkodi was completely destroyed by the cyclones of 1964. Kothandaramaswamy temple is the only salvage of the cyclone. Idols of Rama, Sita, Lakshmana, Hanuman and Vibhishana (brother of Ravana), surrendered to Rama, here.
Erwadi
An important site for Muslim pilgrims, Erwadi houses the tomb of Ibrahim Sahid Aulia. At a distance of 24 kilometers from Rameshwaram is Erwadi. Muslims from across the globe visit Erwadi especially during the month of December to participate in the annual festival celebrated as a tribute to the saint.
Around Rameshwaram:
Ramanathapuram
This ancient town is the district headquarters. The Ram Vilas Palace of the Sethupati Rajas is a must visit place. The oil portraits of the Rajas of the past centuries and the articulately designed ceilings and walls embellished with eighteenth century murals, the subjects of which vary from business. Meetings with the English to battles with the Marathas, make this place more interesting.
Tirupullani
Outside the island, there are three other sites traditionally connected with Sri Rama's expedition to Sri Lanka. A big temple in Tiruppullani commemorates the tradition that there the Lord obtained a bow and arrows to use in the impending war from its presiding Deity and also that the Lord of the Ocean who had refused to help Him finally submitted.
Uthirakosamangai
16-km southwest of Ramanathapuram stands the renowed Shiva temple of Uttarakosamangai. Manikkavachagar has sung of it. The Lord is Mangaleshvara and the Goddess Mangalesvari. The temple has inspired many Tamil works of devotion. So, of course, has the Ramanatha temple in Rameshwaram.
Sethu
5-km south of the temple is Sethu, where there is a celebrated temple of Sri Anjaneya, and where, tradition holds, Sri Rama built a bridge to Sri Lanka. In Devipatnam, or Navapashanam, also by the sea, there are nine stones visible at low tide. It is believed that they were set up by Sri Rama to represent the nine planets, the Navagrahas.
Tourists Activities at Rameshwaram:

Come along with us and explore the architectural beauty of temples at Rameshawaram:
Ramanathswamy temple built in 17th century and is popular for its 1200 gigantic columns, the 54 meters gate tower and also 1220 meters of magnificent corridors represents the architectural beauty of the temple.

Explore the adventure of Beach Activities at Rameshwaram:
The beach at Rameshwaram is clam and quite and very rare sea species and coral reefs. There are many remarkable variety of marine species like algae, starfish, sea cucumber, crabs, sponges and sea cow are found here. Travelers can even enjoy the sight of dolphins. Tourists can get involved in swimming, sun bathing and also enjoy the sights of frolic dolphins.

Can also opt for Sightseeing at Rameshwaram:
Most of the people prefers to organize picnic at Rameshwaram. The majestic beaches of Dhanushkodi, Olaikuda, and Pamban are the most wonderful sights to organize the picnics. The Olaikuda beach is located at the distance of 1 kilometer from the main temple. Its the beach that is the best for bathing.

There's something Nature lovers also:
Rameshwaram is the paradise for the nature lovers. Most favorite tourist activity in Rameshwaram is the Bird watching. Different variety of birds like Sea Gulls and Australian Flamingos which flies during the winters. The place is having different color, shapes and sizes. The chirping of these birds are also very much popular at Rameshwaram.

Enjoy Shopping at Rameshwaram:
Shopping for south silk sarees and Kanjiveeraum are the must buy things in Rameshwaram.

 The nearest airport is Madurai, 173 kms away. Rameswaram has rail connections with all major cities like Chennai, Madurai, Coimbatore, Trichy and Tanjavur. Connected with all the important towns of Tamil Nadu, buses and taxis ply regularly. The Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation also operates buses to Rameswaram.

Grishneswar is the 12th Jyotirling among the total 12 Dwadasha Jyotirlingas. The temple is situated at a place called Ilapur. The temple is just 2Kms away from world famous Yellora caves. The village name is called Verul. The temple development was mainly done during Chatrapathi Shivaji. Later during 16th century Vithoji and during 17th century Queen of Indore Ahalya bai Halkar also contributed a lot for further development.

Importance of the place:
The Grishneshwar Jyothirling is situated in Western state of India, Maharahtra. The temple is just 20Kms away from Daulatabad which is nearer to Aurangabad. The temple premesis is very spacious and surrounded by a large wall on all the four sides. The Jyotirling and the Goddess, Grishneshwari, both are seen in inside the Garbha gruham. Lot of art work can be seen on the walls.

Other interesting visiting places surrounding Grishneshwar Jyotirling are listed below:

Koneru is nearer to the temple and considered very sacred. Yellora Caves are just two kilometers from the temple. These caves are the integration of Hinduism, Jain and Buddhism. There are total 34 caves which are very famous for the art they show on the entire walls. These caves are made between 6th and 10th century. Ajanta caves, Kailasa caves, Aurangjeb Tomb, Bibi ka Makbara, Panchaki, Mini TajMahal are some more in this list.

How to reach:
Nearest Air port is Aurangabad
Nearest Railway station is Aurangabad
From Aurangabad Velur is at a distance of 29Kms. Aurangabad railways station is on the broad gauge line between Secunderabad and Manmad. The distance between Hyderabad and Aurangabad is 615Kms. From Manmad, Aurangabad is only 115Kms.
There are very less lodges available in Velur. Travellers better stay at Aurangabad.

Temple of Lord Nageshwar is situated in Gujarat, and is about 12 kms on way from Gomti-Dwarka to Bhet-Dwarka.The jyotirlinga enshrined in the temple of Nagnath is known as Nageshwar Mahadev and attracts thousands of pilgrims all round the year.

This powerful jyotirlinga symbolizes protection from all poisons and those who pray to the Nageshwar Linga therefore become poison free. This Sivalingam is facing South, with the Gomugam facing East. There is a story for this position.

A devotee by name Naamdev was singing bhajans in front of the Lord. Other devotees asked him to stand aside and not hide the Lord. To this Naamdev asked them to suggest one direction in which the Lord does not exist, so that he can stand there. The enraged devotees carried him and left him on the southside. To their astonishment, they found that the Linga was now facing South with the Gomugam facing east.


According to the Shiv Purana there was a she-demon by the name Daruka in ancient times. Due to Parvati’s blessings she had turned proud and obstinate. A mighty demon named Daruk was her husband. He had collected a huge army of demons and had started harassing all the innocent people there.

He would destroy all the religious rituals performed there. On the western bank of the ocean there was a forest which was abundant with all the good things. The forest was spread across 192 kms. Wherever Daruka would go, the forest with all its good things would go along with her.


Goddess Parvati had appointed Daruka as the caretaker of the forest. Daruka and her husband Daruk both would stay there and terrify people there. People tired of this terror went to Maharishi Aurva. Aurva for the security of the refugees cursed the demons that if they would harass people or destroy religious rituals they would instantly die. When the gods came to know about this they attacked the demons.

Even though the demons would kill the gods they became frightened because, they could get killed because of the curse of the sage. If they did not kill they would get defeated. Seeing the state of the demons Daruka said because of the blessing of Bhavani I can take this forest whereever I want. She went and entered the sea. Now all the demons started residing in the sea and started harassing creatures there also.


Once many a boats having many people seated came there. All the demons caught hold of the people and put them in prison. Amongst the prisoners there was a prisoner by the named Supriya. He was a great devotee of Lord Shiva. He advised all prisoners to recite the mantra ‘AUM NAMAHA SHIVAYA.’ When Daruk came to know about this he ran to kill Supriya.

Supriya called out to Lord Shiva the Saviour. Instantly Lord Shiva appeared through a small hole and a beautiful temple with wall was formed. In the middle of the temple a lustrous Jyotirlinga was installed. Lord Shiva destroyed all the demons and saved the life of Supriya. Here Demons Daruka started praying to Goddess Parvati for mercy.

The Goddess was pleased with the devotion and blesses her. In this way Lord Shiva stays and resides there eternally by the name of Nageshwar and Goddess Parvati by the Nageshwari. According to the Shiv Purana who ever with devotion reads the birth and greatness of this Jyotirlinga will achieve all material happiness and shall get divine status in the end.

Getting there and Around:

By Air - Jamnagar, 145 kms away, is the nearest airport.

By Rail - Dwarka is a station on the Ahmedabad-Okha broad gauge railway line connected to Jamnagar, Rajkot (217 kms) and Ahmedabad (378 kms).

By Road - There is regular bus service from Jamnagar, Rajkot and other nearby towns connected to Dwarka.

Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga Temple is a famous Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, the sacred abodes of Shiva. It is located in the city of Deoghar, Jharkhand, India. It is believed that the demon king Ravana worshipped the lord here to get the boons that he later used to wreak havoc in the world.

It is also knows as Baba dham and Baidyanath dham. Held as a very holy place, more than a million pilgrims visit this shrine every year. Legend goes that the daemon king Ravana offered his 10 heads one after the another to lord shiva in a sacrifice. Pleased with this lord shiva decended to earth and cured Ravana who was injured. As he acted as a doctor, he is referred to as Vaidhya (sanskrit word for a doctor).

According to the stories narrated in According to the Shiva Purana, it was in the Treta yuga that the demon Ravana, king of Lanka, felt that his capital would not be perfect and free from enemies unless Mahadeva stays there forever, he paid continuous meditation to Mahadeva. Ultimately Shiva got pleased and permitted him to carry his lingam with him to Lanka. Mahadeva advised him not to place or transfer this lingam to anyone. There should not be a break in his journey to Lanka. If he deposits the lingam anywhere on the earth, in the course of his journey, it would remain fixed at that place forever. Ravana was happy as he was taking his return journey to Lanka.

His fate willed otherwise. The gods took it ill. If Shiva went to Lanka with Ravana then Ravana would have become invincible and his evil and anti vadic deeds would have been a big threat. Therefore gods tricked Ravana. It is said that Ravana was offered water by Parvati and through this water which Ravana drank, Parvati made all the waters of three rivers (Ganaga, Yamuna and Saraswati) enter into his stomach.

On his way back from Mount Kailash, Ravana felt an urgent need to urinate and as he could not do so with the holy linga in his hand, he started looking for someone who could hold it for him. At the very moment, Lord Vishnu appeared as a Brahmin in front of him. Ravana asked Vishnu to hold the linga and went to release himself. But he could not stop urinating because of the trick played on him. Vishnu, on the pretext of Ravana making it too late, kept the Linga down on earth. The moment Linga was kept down, Ravana stopped urinating!

Legend goes that Ravana needed to wash his hands after urination to make himself pious. Finding no water source around he hit the ground with his fist and a big crater was made which got filled with water.

When Ravana now tried to move the Linga, he could not. Out of anger he press the linga down with his thumb. But after restoring himself, he started to offer his prayers for the Linga.

The current shrine has many temples with major shrines of Parvati, Vishnu etc. In the month of Shravan (mid june to mid july) hundreds of thousands of pilgrims come to Baba dham. They carry water form the holy river Ganga, from Sultangunj and travel barefoot more than 100 kilometers on foot to offer to baba. Some of them cover the distance within 24 hours. They are called Dak Bam and they do not stop even once in their journey from Sultangunj to Baba Dham.

Most of the devotees pray to Lord Shiva of this shrine with a sense of friendship (Sakha Bhav).

Deogarh is also known as Vaidyanath, Haritaki Vana, Ketaki Vana, Ravana Vana, Chitabhoomi and Hardapeetha. Some schools of thought believe Vaidyanath near Parali in Andhra Pradesh to be the Vaidyanatha Jyotirlingam. Other schools of thought claim that Kiragram in Punjab and Dabhoi in Gujarat are the Vaidyanatha Jyotirlinga temples. The Vaideeswaran Koyil temple in Tamilnadu (which is not a Jyotirlingam temple) enshrines Vaidyanathar.

Legend has it that Ravana meditated upon Shiva, and requested him to come over to Sri Lanka, in order that his capital may become invincible. It is said that he attempted to lift Mount Kailash and take it with him to his capital; however Shiva crushed him with his finger, and Ravana prayed to him and sought his mercy, after which Shiva gave him one of the twelve Jyotirlingams with the condition that if it was placed on the ground it would take root immediately.

Ravana carried the Jyotirlingam and began his trek back to his capital. Varuna the God of water, entered his belly, and caused him to feel the need to relieve himself. Vishnu then came down in the form of a lad and volunteered to hold the Jyotirlingam as he relieved himself. Before Ravana returned, Vishnu placed the Jyotirlingam on the ground, and it became rooted to the spot. A disappointed Ravana offered severe penances to Shiva here, and cut off nine of his heads. Shiva revived him and joined the heads to the body, as if by the work of a Vaidya or a physician, hence this Jyotirlingam goes by the name Vaidyanath. The same legend holds at Gokarnam in Karnataka.

Another legend has it that this temple was re-discovered by a cowherd Baiju, and hence the name Baijnath.

Vaidyanath is also considered to be one of the 52 Shakti Pitha shrines of Sati. It is believed that the heart of Sati fell here, when her half burnt body being carried by Shiva at the end of Daksha's yagna, was chopped to pieces by Vishnu's discus.

The temple: The temple is situated in a spacious courtyard bounded by stone walls. In the temple complex are twenty two other temples. The Baijnath or Vaidyanath temple faces east. The top of the Shiva Lingam is slightly broken, keeping with the legend that it chipped away when Ravana tried to uproot it. Near the temple is the Sivaganga lake. The Chandrakoopa well, near the main entrance is said to have been built and consecrated with water from several thirthams by Ravana.

Getting there :
Parli Vaijnath (Maharashtra)
Nearest Airport: Aurangabad- 210 Km
Railway Station: Parli Vaijnath

Deities: Mallikarjuna (Shiva);
Location:Srisailam, Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh
Best time to visit: All year around
Festival & Event: Mahashivaratri

Srisailam is located in Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh. This whole area is full of forests of Kadali, Bilva trees, mountain ranges and Patalaganga (Krishnaveni river). All of them echo from these joyous voices of devotees.

Puranic History of Srisailam

When Kumar Kartikeya returned to Kailash after completing his trip around the earth, he heard about Ganesha�s marriage from Narada. This angered him. In spite of being restrained by his parents, he touched their feet in obeisance and left for Krounch Mountain.

Parvati was very distraught at having to be away from her son, implored Lord Shiva to look for their son. Together, they went to Kumara. But, Kumara went away a further three Yojanas, after learning about his parents coming after him to Krouncha Mountain.

Before embarking on a further search for their son on each mountain, they decided to leave a light on every mountain they visited. From that day, that place came to be known as JyotirLinga Mallikarjuna. It is believed that Shiva and Parvati visit this palce on Amavasya (No moon day) and (full Moon day) Pournami, respectively.Visiting this JyotirLinag not only blesses one with innumerable wealth, but also name and fame and fulfils all the desires.

Once, a princess named Chandravati decided to go to the Jungles to do penance and meditation. She chose Kadali Vana for this purpose. One day, she witnessed a miracle. A Kapila cow was standing under a Bilwa tree and milk was flowing from all of its four udders, sinking into the ground. The cow kept doing this as a routine chore everyday.

Chandravati dug up that area and was dumb founded at what she saw. There was a self-raising Swyambhu SivaLinga. It was bright and shining like the sun rays, and looked like it was burning, throwing flames in all directions. Chandravati prayed to Siva in this JyotirLinga. She built a huge Shiva Temple there. Lord Shankara was very pleased with her. Chandravati went to Kailash wind borne. She received salvation and Mukti. On one of the stone-inscriptions of the temple, Chandravati story can be seen carved out.

Location and Development of mallikarjuna swamy temple

Shaila Mallikarjuna�s holy place is located on the banks of River Krishna. Here River Krishna is in the form of Patalaganga (underground spring). Lakhs of devotees take a holy dip here and then go for the Darshan of the JyotirLinga.

During the Karnataka Movement, Chatrapati Shivaji used to come to take a Darshan
of the JyotirLinga during the Maharatri. He built a tower on the right side of the Temple and also opened a free-meal center.

Nature And Beauty

The kings of the VijayaNagar Dynasty too built a Temple, Tower, Portico and a pond. Ahelyadevi Holkar, a great devotee of Siva built a strong bathing wharf consisting of 852 steps on the banks of the Patalganga. Earlier, this part of the Shaila mountains was an unreachable tough terrain and fraught with danger. Even then, devotees, with their sheer will power, used to reach there in large numbers.

Hiranyakashipa, Narada, Pandavas, Sri Ram are some of the great mythological personalities who have visited this holy shrine. shankara bhagavatpAda, Renukacharya, akka mahAdevi, hemareddy mallamma are some of the great devotees who worshipped Lord mallikArjuna here.

How to go there:

By Road: Road distances from Srisailam are Atmakur (113 km), Anantapur (325 km), Bangalore (538 km), Mumbai (971 km), Calcutta (1491 km), Delhi (1685 km), Dornal (49 km), Hyderabad (232 km), kurnool (180 km), chennai (568 km), Nagarjuna sagar (180 km), Nandyal (158 km), Tirupathi (436 km), Vijayawada (248 km), Visakhapatnam (614 km)

By Rail: Nearest railhead is Markapur on Guntur-Hubli line. Hyderabad, Vijayawada, Kurnool, Nandyal are also convenient railheads.

By Air: The nearest airport is at Hyderabad(232 km) which is air linked with Bangalore, Bhuvaneswar, Mumbai, Chennai, Delhi, Nagpur, culcutta and other major cities. Continental Aviation also connects with Hyderabad.

Srisailam is well connected with APSRTC and AP tourism buses from kurnool, Hyderabab, Mahaboobnagar, Nalgonda, Devarakonda, Guntur, Vijayawada, Ongole, Mahanandi, Mantralayam, Anantapur etc. some Karnataka state buses have daily trips from Hubli, Mysore, Raichur, Dharwad, Sholapur Etc.

Local Attractions: Alampur (207 km), Dindi Reservoir (64 km), Nagarjunasagar (180 km), Sangameswar (18 km), Mahanandi, Belum Caves.

Accomodation and Contact Numbers:
The Devasthanam is having 25 individual cottages, Pathaleswra Sadan with 23 Deluxe Suites, Sivasadanam guest house with 100 rooms, T.T.D Guest House with 10 rooms,Chandeswara Sadanam with 22 rooms and a dormitory Choultry consisting of 7 Halls.

Devasthanam has also constructed a modern complex with 112 suites named as Gangasadan and Gowrisadan. At present this complex is leased out to Tourism Department.

Besides this there are 40 private choultries consisting of about 1200 rooms and they are also providing accommodation to the pilgrim.

The Department of Tourism is maintaining Punnami Guest Houses consisting above 50 suites.

Telephone directory:

Reception Office
+91(0)-8524-288888
+91(0)-8524-288889

Information center/donation counter
+91(0)-8524-288885

Executive officer
+91(0)-8524-288881(o)
+91(0)-8524-288882(r)

Adminstrative office
+91(0)-8524-288883

Temple office
+91(0)-8524-288887

P.R.O’s office
+91(0)-8524-288886

Nandhiniketan
+91(0)-8524-287134

It is located in the Kedarnath near Badrinath (Vadu Naadu) Lord Shiva: Kedara Nathar, Ambal: Gowri, Theertham: Mandakini, Patikam: Sambandar, Sundarar, Travel Base: Rishikesh

Description: It is the famous and one of the best known in all India is called Lord Shivastalams and it is also known as the most sacred pilgrimage centers of the country. It is situated in the Lofty Himalayas. It is coming in the top list of 12 Jyotirlingams which is in Northern part, while Rameswaram is the Souther part. The leader of the spiritual Ali Sankaracharya is closely associated with Kedarnath, Kedarnath was the shrine steeped in antiquity, which are rich in lengend and religious significance.

The Himalayan shrines was achieved to lord shiva which has been glorifield by the Tamil Tevaram Hymns which is composed by the Nayanmars of the 1st millennium CE. It is shrines indraneela Parvatam in Nepal, there are Gowrikund, Kedarnath, and Mount Kailash which is in Tibet. But in none of that Nayanmars visited Kedarnath, Sambandar sang it has been praises from the Kalahasti.

There was a Tamil hymns of the Nayanmars refer to Kedarnath as Tirukkedaram. The Kedarnath was the fourth of the Tevara Stalams which is hailed by the Tamil hymns of the Nayanmars, which is situated outside of the Tamilnadu/ Kerala/ Karnataka i.e in Vada Naadu.

The Temple: it is situated in the Himalaya and its height is a 12000 feet in which awe inspiring surrounding, this is the small shrine is accessible by foot, only 6 month a year. The temple which are there in Kedarnath enshrining the Jyotirlingam of Lord Shiva opens only when the sun enters the Zodiac sign of Aries and it is closing when the sun enter Scorpio. The priests then go to Ukhimath, where the worship of the Kedareshwara is continued during the winter season.

Kedarnath is situated on a ridge which is at right angles from below the 23000 feet it is high snowy peak of Mahapanth. Kedarnath was situated on the Rudra Himalaya range.The Rudra Himalaya is also called the Pancha Parvata; its has five peaks which are Rudra Himalaya, Vishnupuri, Bhramapuri, Udgari-Kanth and Swargarohini.

 It is believed that four of the Pandavas died on the last of these peaks.Legend: the legend is that the parvati worshipped Kedareshwar to be unite with Lord Shiva as her Ardhanareeswarar. The Kedara Munivar was also said to established this shrine visited by the Pancha Pandavas.

Legend: it has both Nara and Narayana – two incarnations of the Vishnu practised severe penances at Badrikashramam, in the front of a shivalingam fashioned out of the earth. When Lord Shiva was present in front of them, they requested to lord Shiva to take up his permanent abode as a Jyotirlingam at Kedarnath.
Legend: the pandava princes has said pandava that she want to visit the kedarnath after the great kurukshetra battle.

 Lord Shiva is keep watching the pandavas, he had assumed the form of a male buaffalo and entered the earth. And it is also said that the rear of its body remained here, as in Kedareshwar. The front part of the body is believed to be in Nepal. This legend says that when Lord Shiva entered the ground, he was become the five fold – his hind remained at the Kedar, his arms Tunganatha, his face Rudranath, his belly was Madhyameswara and his jata Kalpeswara. These all five shrines was known as the Pancha Kedara.

In this place it is believed that Pandavas are visited here several times. Arjuna was believed to have come here to pray to Shiva to obtain the coveted Pasupataastra. The other Pandavas are believed to have come here in search of him, and there Draupadi came across the heavenly lotus Kalyana Saugandikam, and was requested to Bhima to bring here some more of the same. It was during his venturing out to seeks these flowers that Bhima met Hanumaan.

The tradition was is that pilgrims which is first visit Yamunotri and Gangotri which is bring with them the holy waters from the sources of the rivers Yamuna and Ganga and was offer abhishekams to kedareshwara. There was a traditional pilgrim route is Haridwar – Rishikesh – Devaprayag – Tehri – Dharasu – Yamunotri – Uttar Kashi – Gangotri – Triyugnarayan – Gowrikund and Kedarnath. Alternatively, the route to Kedar from Rishikesh is via Devprayag, Srinagar, Rudraprayag and Ukhimath.

It is near the kedarnath is the source of the river which is Mandakini, Mandakini join Alakananda at Rudraprayag.

Getting there :

By Road : Kedarnath is connected by road with Badrinath (242 KM), Dehradun (268 KM), Delhi (450 KM), Haridwar (250 KM), Kotdwar (256 KM), and Rishikesh (226 KM).

Route : Rishikesh to Kedarnath vai Rudraprayag :- Rishikesh -> Rudraprayaga -> Agastamuni -> Kund -> Gupta kashi -> Phata -> Soneprayag -> Gauri Kund.
Gouri Kund to Kedarnath is 14 KM. This ditance has to be covered by foot, ponies, palkies.

By Rail : The nearest convenient railway station are Dehradun and Haridwar. These are well connected with Delhi, Mumbai, Calcutta and rest of India through Rail netwaork.


By Air : The nearest convenient Air port is Delhi. Which is further well connected with Mumbai, Calcutta and rest of India through Air netwaork.