Recipe For A Happy Marriage – Five Ingredients

#1 Take Two “Heartfuls” of Love

The English expression, “Falling in love,” is significant because you don’t rise in love, you don’t fly in love, you don’t walk in love, you don’t stand in love. You fall in love, because something of who you are has to go. It essentially means someone else has become far more important than yourself. Only if you don’t think too much of yourself, you can be in love. When what you consider as “me” falls, a deep experience of love can happen within you.

#2 Add a Liberal Dose of Understanding

The closer the relationship with someone is, the more effort you should make to understand them. Someone becomes closer and dearer to you only as you understand them better. If they understand you, they enjoy the closeness of the relationship. If you understand them better, then you enjoy the closeness. If you are expecting the other to understand and comply with you all the time while you don’t understand the limitations, possibilities, needs and capabilities of that person, then conflict is all that will happen.

In everyone, there are some positive and some negative aspects. If you embrace all this in your understanding, you can make the relationship the way you want it. If you leave it to their understanding, it will become accidental. If they are very magnanimous, things will happen well for you. If not, the relationship will break up. It is not that the other person is totally bereft of understanding. With your understanding you can create situations where the other person would be able to understand you better.

#3 Work On It A Little

A marriage is not an absolute thing that you can do once and forget. It is an active partnership. Two separate people have chosen to come together for a common purpose and build a life together, live joyfully and multiply their wellbeing. Two human beings weaving their lives into one has a certain beauty.

In Indian culture, a marriage was renewed once a year just to remind you why you came together. It is a fresh marriage again on that day. Otherwise, you think you have been stuck in this forever. No. You came together consciously, and you have to conduct it consciously too.

#4 Warm It Up With Some Joy

If relationships have to be really beautiful, it is very important that a human being turns inward and looks at himself in a very deep way before he looks at someone else. If you become a source of joy by yourself and your relationships are about sharing your joy, you would have wonderful relationships with anyone. Is there anyone in the world who would have any problem with you if you are going there to share your joy with them? No. If you want to experience the profoundness of being with another human being, your marriage should never be about you – it should always be about the other person. If both of you think like this, your marriage will not be an arrangement, it will be a union.

#5 Offer It To Each Other

If your marriage is just a bundle of expectations about how to extracthappiness out of someone who should make heaven for you, you will be disappointed. They say marriages are made in heaven. They say that because most people created a hell out of their marriage! If your relationship is about extracting something out of someone, it does not matter how much you manage, there will be constant trouble. But if your relationship was an offering to the other person, then everything would be fantastic.

Rama's Journey during Vanavas

Sri Rama's route From Ayodya to Rameswaram & Lanka as per Ramayana) The road from Ayodhya to Janakpur, which was the route, used by the bridegroom and his
“baraatis” (family) to reach Ayodhya after the Ram-Sita marriage in Janakpur acquired the name
“Ram-Sita Marg” long ago.
Shri Ram and Rishi Vishwamitra, however, took another route to reach Janakpur after the slaying
of Tadaka in Tadakavan (Forest of Tadka).
The route of the “baraatis” is known as Ram-Sita Marg and it is now a proper road. Millions of
pilgrims actually cover the distance on foot till today to enact the marriage of Ram and Sita.

1) Azamgarh, Uttar PradeshShri Ram was only fifteen years old when he and Lakshman set out with Rishi Vishwamitra to
annihilate the demons that were polluting and obstructing the sacred rituals of his Yagna (fire
sacrifice). Their first halt was on the banks of the River Sarayu, twenty kilometers from Ayodhya.
Valmiki’s Ramayan describes the tranquil setting against which, Vishwamitra taught the princes
the art of “bal” and “atibal” which endowed them with immunity from disease and eternal good
health besides freeing them from pangs of hunger and thirst.
Valmiki’s Ramayan describes the tranquil setting against which, Vishwamitra taught the princes
the art of “bal” and “atibal” which endowed them with immunity from disease and eternal good
health besides freeing them from pangs of hunger and thirst.

2) Balliya, Uttar Pradesh
Walking past Azamgad, Shri Ram, Lakshman and Sage Vishwamitra reached Balliya where River
Sarayu merges with the holy river Ganga. This haven on the banks of the Sarayu was the chosen
place for sages who spend long hours in meditation. Shri Ram rested here in the night before he
set out at dawn crossing river Ganga to reach Vishwamitra’s Siddhashram. At night, before the
princes went to sleep, Vishwamitra narrated to them the story of Kamdhenu (God of Love) who
was burned to ashes there by Lord Shiva.

3) BUXAR, BIHAR
A) Tadka Vadh: Buxar, Bihar.
After crossing the holy Ganga, Shri Ram and Lakshman reached a dense forest where demoness
Tadka lived. The dreadful forest was known as Tadkavan. Shri ram ended Tadka’s reign over the
forest by slaying her and freeing its inhabitants from terror. The forest stretched between Bharoli
and Baksar in Bihar. Shri Ram performed the first task of his “avtaar” (incarnation) here by
destroying the evil demoness.

B) Siddhashram: Buxar, Bihar
Rishi Vishwamitra’s Siddhashram was located not too far from Baksar. Siddhashram, according to
Adhytma Ramayan was a social ashram where religious instruction was imparted to people. Shri
Ram and Lakshman sojourned in the ashram for three days after Shri Ram killed Mareech and
Subahu, the demons who were tormenting Rishi Vishwamitra by dirtying his Yagna (fire sacrifice)
with bones and blood. Lakshman destroyed an entire demon force brought by Subahu while Shri
Ram took on the might Mareech, son of Tadka, the demoness he had done away with earlier.
There are villages existing today on the banks of the River Ganga with the names Mareech and
Subahu.

C) Ahilya Uddhar: Ahroli, Buxar, Bihar. 
Three kilometers from Buxar in the northern direction is the village Ahroli. Rishi Gautam had his
ashram here. According to Ram Charita Manas it was here that Shri Ram delivered Ahilya, the
beautiful wife of Rishi Gautam, from a curse of her husband, which had turned her into stone.
When Shri Ram and Lakshman left Siddhashram they crossed River Ganga and River Sonbhadra
and set foot on the soil of Ahroli village, which still exists in Buxar district.
4) Sonbhadra River: Patna, Bihar
Parev and Trigama are two places of significance. They have a distance of five kilometers
between them. When Shri Ram and Lakshman crossed River Sonbhadra, they reached a place
before Patna where they spent a night before moving on to Janakpur.

7) Vishala Nagri: Hajipur, Bihar (near Patna).
Vishala Nagri is in the district Vishali. Ram and Lakshman crossed River Ganga and reached this
town with Rishi Vishwamitra who guided them to a garden to rest for a while in its fragrant
surroundings.

8) Ahilya Ashram (Ahiyari): Darbanga, Bihar.
Valmiki’s Ramayan says Gautam Rishi’s ashram was in Mithila. Ahilya resided there as Shila.
The place was therefore named as Ahiyari after her. Thaiyavalk (Jagvan), Shringi (Sringya),
Bhringi (Bhairav) and Gautam Rishis lived there.

9) A) Vishwamitra Ashram: Bisaul, Madhubani, Bihar.
Bisaul was Rishi Viswamitra’s place of residence. After reaching Janakpur Rishi Vishwamitra
stayed there and he set up his ashram in a garden.

B) Phulhar Village (Jamuni), Madhubani, Bihar.
Phulhar village was situated in one of Raja Janak’s prime gardens. It was in Jamuni (Madhubani)
and was celebrated for a Gauri Temple where Sita prayed regularly. After paying obeisance to his
Guru Vishwamitra when Shri Ram entered the floral section of the garden, Sita, who was present
there, got her first glimpse of Shri Ram.

10) A) Matihani: Janakpur, Nepal.
In the vicinity of Janakpur was Matihani from where, according to folklore, mud was collected
and taken to create the venue for the marriage of Shri Ram and Sita. Matihani has become a
sacred place as even today maidens for their marriage take mud from here.

B)Janakpur, Nepal.
Janakpur was the capital of Raja Janak’s kingdom. It lies 20 kilometers from India’s border and is
known for a temple of Ma Sita which attracts pilgrims round the year.

) Rangbhoomi: Janakpur, Nepal.C
It is believed that the Dhanush Yagya (competition for lifting of the bow) or Sitaswayamvar, as is
popularly understood was announced before an invited royal gathering in a huge maidan (field)
close to the present Janaki Mandir. It was here that Shri Ram picked up the Shiv Dhanush and
broke it into two halves with ease.
Note: The important places in Janakpur include Matihani, Rangbhoomi, Dhanusha Mani Mandap. All of them are associated with the legend
of Shri Ram and Sita’s marriage.

11) Sita Marhi, Bihar.

According to beliefs, Mithila, one of the principalities of Raja Janak’s Kingdom was passing

through the trial of drought and famine. Following royal tradition, Raja Janak took out the golden

plow and went to an arid field to plough the soil and appeal to the gods for rain. While performing

the ritual, the plow got stuck in a deep grove in the soil. The king’s men rushed to pull the plow

out of the depth of the soil and lo and behold there was a girl child waiting for help. The childless

king happily adopted her as his daughter and named her “Sita”, the Sanskrit term by which the

cutting side of the plow is known.

The name of the village, Sitamarhi, is derived from the name Sita as a result. Travelers going to

Janakpur in Nepal invariably stop at Sitamarhi for a “darshan” (sighting) of the land where Sita

manifested in the soil.

12) SITAKUND: MOTIHARI, BIHAR

A) Sitakund: Motihari, Bihar

It is said that the “baraatis” (procession of the bridegroom’s family) while returning to the

kingdom of Ayodhya after the Ram-Sita marriage stopped at Sitakund Motihari for a little rest.

They bathed and freshened themselves in the Sita Kund. One of Sita’s bangles fell in the kund

(pond), it is believed. The baraatis (Bridegroom’s family) offered a puja (worship) to Lord Shiva

here.

Sitakund is located 20 kms from Motihari in the South Direction. It is a well-known place in the

Northern Indian Belt.

B) Derwan, Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh.

Dearwan which lies ahead of Sitakund is not far from Sitakund. The baraatis (Bridegroom’s

family) had camped at this place and hence the name Derwan. The word “Dev” in Hindi means

camp.

13) Dohri Ghat, Mhow, Uttar Pradesh.

The true meaning of Dohari is Do Hari, i.e. Two Haris. One commonly used name in the worship

of Lord Vishnu is Hari. As per Valmiki Ramayan, the baarat was on the way to Ayodhya when the

earlier Avtaar (incarnation) of Vishnu, Parshuram, stopped the baaratis at this place on the banks

of the river Sarayu. Parashuram tested Shri Ram and realized who he was. Both the Haris

(Parashuram and Ram, the two Vishnu avatars) met here and Parashuram returned to Mahesgiri

Mountain after offering his respects to Ram. Raja Dashrath and the “baraatis” then continued their

journey back to Ayodhya with Shri Ram.

                                               Shri Ram’s Vanvas Journey

It is more difficult to chart a route for Ram’s journey during his period of exile.Firstly this is pan-India journey, secondly, Ram, Lakshman and Sita also wandered in the Dandaka Forest for more
than 10 years. This mighty forest would encompass in today’s date almost the entire state of
Madhya Pradesh including parts of Gujarat and Maharashtra on the West and Karnataka on the
South. Hence this makes it even more difficult. Still we have charted a basic route, which can be
seen here in this map.
There are many places that Ram visited during this 14 year period during which he had the good
fortune of meeting with some of most enlightened sages and beings of that period. They were of
course very delighted to meet with Ram themselves with many of them having been foretold the
coming of Ram, they waited for years conducting severe penance for that fortunate time to arrive

1) AYODHYA, UTTAR PRADESH
Ayodhya was the capital city for the Isvaku Dynasty (Suryavanshi) of Kings. This was also the
city where Son of Dasrath, Shri Ram was born (appeared). In twelve kilometers vicinity of
Ayodhya there exist holy places like Vedi Kund, Sita Kund, Janaura etc. that are also part of the
journey of Shri Ram’s “vanvas” (exile) route. It was also from Ayodhya that Shri Ram started his
journey along with Sita and Lakshman.
Ayodhya was a majestic city comparable to any international city of modern times almost eleven
kilometers in length full of parks, gardens, theatres and modern infrastructure and facilities for its
citizens. The citizens of Ayodhya loved their Kings.

B) Tamsa River, Uttar Pradesh.It was here that Shri Ram along with Sita, Lakshman and Sumantra Minister (Mantri) rested on
their first night. The modern name for Tamsa River is Madhar River and the place from where she
flows is called Gora Ghat. This place is about twenty kilometers from Ayodhya. On the banks of
the Tamsa River there is a place known as Purva Chakiya. The citizens of Ayodhya followed Shri
Ram until this spot after their dearest Ram departed from Ayodhya. Shri Ram, Lakshman and Sita
disguised themselves and left this spot in the middle of the night so that none of the people would
be able to follow him.

2) Sultanpur, Uttar Pradesh 
A) Gomti River, Sultanpur, Uttar Pradesh
On the banks of the Gomti river, Sage Valmiki had an ashram. It was from here that Shri Ram
crossed the Gomti river. The old name of Sultanpur was Kushannathpur, which was named after
the son of Ram, “Kush”.

B) Vadrathi River, Pratapgarh, Uttar Pradesh
The present day name of the Vadrathi River is Sarkani River. This place is situated around 8
kilometers from Pratapgarh in the Eastern Direction. Shri Ram had crossed this river near the
town of Mohanganj, as per Valmiki Ramayan.

C)Sandika River (Sayi River), Mohanganj, Pratapgarh, Uttar Pradesh
The current day name of the Sandika River is Sayi River. This place is situated at a distance of
twelve kilometers from Pratapgarh. This is place is also commonly known as Dev Ghat. Shri Ram
has crossed this river from this spot. There is also a Shiv Temple here that was established by
Bharat. This place has been mentioned in the Valmiki as well as Tulsi Ramayan.

D)Balukini River, Pratapgarh, Ramkaleva, Uttar Pradesh
The current name of this river is Balukatti. This place is approximately 15 kilometers from
Pratapgarh in the Southern Direction. Shri Ram had crossed this river here as has been mentioned
in the Valmiki Ramayan.

3) PRAYAG (ALLAHABAD), UTTAR PRADESH
A)Shringverpur, Prayag (Allahabad), Uttar Pradesh
Singrora is the current name of Shringverpur. This was the capital of Nishad Raj Guha. This place
is situated around twenty kilometers North of Allahabad. Shri Ram has rested on a bed of grass
here. The next morning he crossed the Ganga River from here and proceeded to the Bharadwaj
Ashram. The incident of “Kevat Prasang” took place here.

B) Sita Kund, Shrinverpur, Prayag, Uttar Pradesh
This holy pond is around two kilometers from Shrinverpur. It was from here that Shri Ram sent
back their beloved minister Sumantra to Ayodhya.

C) Sangam, Prayag, Uttar Pradesh
This is the divine meeting place of the three holy rivers of Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati. Shri
Ram himself has praised this spot for its spiritual powers, which can uplift mankind. Bharadwaj
Rishi had his ashram here. Shri Ram had rested in this ashram for a night. Ram Charita Manas as
well as Valmiki Ramayan give a lot of importance to this place.

D) Yamuna Ghat, Simri, Prayag, Uttar Pradesh
Shri Ram along with Lakshman and Sita crossed the Yamuna River. In the Valmiki Ramayan the
reference to Lakshman constructing a boat to cross the river has been made for this place.
After resting overnight on the Simri Ghat Shri Ram crossed the river using the boat made by
Lakshman. There are many places on the banks of the Yamuna related to the exile period of ShriRam like Akshay Vat, Sita Rasoi (Jasra Bazaar), Rishiyan (the abode of Rishis), Murka (Hanuman
Mandir).

4) CHITRAKOOT, UTTAR PRADESH
A) Ramnagar, Chitrakoot, Uttar Pradesh
Shri Ram walked along the banks of the Yamuna River in his onward journey. After crossing the
Yamuna River, he reached what is known in today’s time as Ramnagar. This is place is birthplace
of Tulsi Das, the great poet who has written Ram Charita Manas.

B) Valmiki Ashram, Lala Pur, Chitrakoot, Uttar Pradesh
After visiting Sage Bharadwaj’s Ashram, Shri Ram reached Valmiki’s Ashram and he spent the
night here. It was here that Sage Valmiki himself suggested to Shri Ram to make Chitrakoot his
home for a few days.

C) Chitrakoot, Uttar Pradesh
As suggested by Sage Valmiki, Shri Ram reached Chitrakoot Dham. Shri Ram made his ashram
on the Kamadgiri Mountain near the Mandakini River. There were many sages, holy men and
rishis who had made their ashrams (abodes) near the Kamadgiri Mountain.
It was this divine spot where Shri Bharat met with Shri Ram and took his padukas (slippers) with
him to Ayodhya to place on the throne.
Chitrakoot has many places of pilgrimages in its vicinity like Madakini River, Bharatkoop, On the
banks of the Mandakini River – Spatik Sheela, Hanuman Dhara and Atri Ashram, Gupt (Secret)
Godavari. All these sacred places strengthen the place of Chitrakoot as a one of the most
important places of pilgrimages while tracing the footsteps of Shri Ram’s journey of exile.
After the visit of Bharat to Chitrakoot, many citizens of Ayodhya had started to visit this place.
Many of the holy men and sages in this area started to feel disturbed by the presence of so many
people and it then that Shri Ram decided to leave this place. Hence all in all Shri Ram would have
stayed in Chitrakoot for only about one or two years only. The majority of his exile period he
spent in the Dandak Forest.

D) Amravati, Chitrakut, Uttar Pradesh
Around 7 kilometers from Atri Ashram, in the middle of the jungle, there is a beautiful place
called Amravati.
One of the ancestors of Shri Ram called Ambrish had conducted an intense penance here for
many years. After leaving Chitrakut, Shri Ram came to Sage Atri’s Ashram. It was here that the
Sati Anusuya (pure and chaste wife of Sage Atri) gave the sermon of “Pati Vrata Dharma”
(service to husband) to Mother Sita.
After resting in Sage Atri’s Ashram for one night, Shri Ram spent the next night at the place of
penance of Ambrish (his ancestor). It was in this forest that Shri Ram killed the Rakshas named
Viradh.
In the vicinity of Amvarti there is a village called Jamunihayi. There is a very dark and dangerous
looking pit called “Viradh Kund” (pond). This pit is situated three kilometers from Amravati.
After killing the demon Viradh, Shri Ram had buried him here.

5) Sharbang Ashram, Satna, Madhya Pradesh
Around 13 kilometers from current day Chithara Station, Satna, Madhya Pradesh is probably
where the Shabrang Ashram of the Ramayan is situated. After the slaying of Viradh, Shri Ram
visited this ashram. It was here that he had the divine “darshan” (sighting) of the God Indra.
After having the “darshan” (sighting) of Shri Ram, Shabrang Rishi with the help of his Yogic Fire
destroyed his body and attained salvation.6) Ramtek, Nagpur, Maharashtra
Ramtek is a beautiful mountain near the city of Nagpur. Shri Ram stayed here for some time. This
mountain is also connected with the writer Kalidas who wrote the famous poem “Meghdoot”
according to some historians.
Approximately 9 kilometers from here there is a place called Salbardi near which there is a place
of pilgrimage called Sita Nahani. According to popular legend, Shri Ram proceeded to the ashram
of Sutikshan Muni from here.

7) NASIK, Maharashtra
A) Sutiksha Muni Ashram: SaptaSrungi, Nasik, Maharashtra
After meeting with Sharbang Rishi, Shri Ram reached the ashram of Sutikshan Muni. He had
spent 10 years in the Dandaka Forest before reaching here. Sutikshan Muni was the disciple of
Agastya Rishi. Shri Ram rested here for some time. He killed many of the demons residing in this
area and also took a vow that he would rid this area of all the evil influences. There is an ancient
temple of Goddess SaptaSrungi here, which attracts many pilgrims. It is said that Markandaye
Rishi wrote the Durga Saptastuti at this holy place. According to popular legend, Durga Ma killed
the demon Mahisasur at this place, which is represented by a hole in the mountain, which can be
seen till today. The demon was hiding behind the mountain when Durga attacked him.

B) Agastya Ashram: Pimparner, Nasik, Maharashtra
Approximately 16 kilometers North of Nasik there is an ashram called Agasteshwar Ashram.
Sutiksha Muni had guided Shri Ram to his Guru Agastya Rishi. Sage Agastya presented Ram with
many divine weapons and powers here. He also advised Ram to make his Ashram on the banks of
the Godavari River and live there.

C) Panchavti: Nasik, Maharashtra
On the banks of the Godavari River there is place popularly known as Tapovan, which is the
actual Panchvati of the Ramayan era. It was here that Shri Ram, Lakshman and Sita resided here
in a small hut. The incident of the cutting off the nose of Demoness Shupnaka took place here. It
is from here that “Nasik” derived its name as the Sanskrit name for nose is “Nasika”. Khar,
Dhooshan, Trishara and 14,000 other Demons were slain by Shri Ram in this area after they
attacked Shri Ram on hearing about this incident from their sister.
The kidnapping of Sita by Ravan, The slaying of Mareech and the Slaying of Jatayu by Ravan all
took place in a forest known as Jansthan in this area. In the ancient times, the ashram of Gautam
Rishi was in the holy town of Trimbakeshwar (one of the twelve Jyotirlings) nearby. In order to
release himself of the burden of a curse on him, Gautam Rishi had created the Godavari River.

8) Tuljapur, Maharastra
There is ancient temple of Devi (Goddess) Tuljabhavani here. It is believed that Shri Ram and
Sita roamed in the forests near the temple. It is also here that Lord Shiva and his wife Sati came
for the “darshan” (sighting) of Shri Ram and Sita. Sati took the form of Sita and tried to get close
to Ram in order to test his purity.

9) RAMDURG, BELGAUM, KARNATAKA
A) Kaband Ashram: Kardigud, Near Ramdurg, Belgaum, Karnataka
In the Indian state of Karnataka there is a village called Kardigud where it is believed that Kaband
Ashram was situated. Shri Ram and Lakshman slayed the demon Kaband here. After he was
killed, Kaband became a “Gandharva” (equivalent of angel) and left for his heavenly abode.
Before leaving he had requested Shri Ram to visit the Ashram of Shabri.B) Shabri Ashram: Sureban, Near Ramdurg, Belgaum, Karnataka
Around 14 kilometers in the Northern direction from Ram Durg, near the town of Gunga is placed
called Sureban. This is place where Shabri, who was a disciple of Sage Matang lived. She had
waited long years for her dear Ram to arrive, and on his arrival she fed him berries which she had
tasted herself to make sure that they were sweet. This angered Lakshman but Shri Ram pacified
him because he could see her intense love and devotion towards him. It was Shabri who then
instructed Ram to approach Sugreev in the search for his beloved wife.

10) HAMPI, KARNATAKA
A) Hanuman Halli: Koppal, Hampi, Karnataka
This was the place where Hanuman met Shri Ram and Lakshman for the first time. In fact
Sugreev had sent Hanuman to meet with them in order to make sure that they were not the spies
of his brother and archenemy Bali. The might Hanuman lifted Shri Ram and Lakshman on his
shoulders and took them on Rishimukh Parvat to meet with Sugreev. The capital city of Sugreev
“Kishkinda” is also near by.

B) Billari, Hampi, Karnataka
Near the ancient Kishkinda, around four kilometers from the town of Hampi, there exists a
Mountain called Malbhavant (Prastravan) where Shri Ram has spent the monsoon season.
The places to see around this area include Bali Bandara, Anjani Parvat (mountain), Matang Rishi
Mountain, Spatik Sheela. It was on the Spatik Sheela that the Varan (monkey) Sena (army) had
collected for the first time. Hanuman had given the news of Sita to Shri Ram at this place.

11) Tricullapalli, Tamil Nadu
The old name for this town is Trishirapalli. This was the abode for Ravan’s brother Trishira and so
named after him. On the banks of the Kaveri River here there is a beautiful Shiv Temple, which is
said to destroy sins.
According to popular legend, Shri Ram had prayed to Lord Shiva here in order to free himself of
the sin of slaying Khar and Dooshan. On his way to Lanka, Shri Ram had stayed here.

12) Rampad, Kodikarai, Vedrandyam, Tamil Nadu
Along with the entire Vanar (money) Sena (army), Shri Ram had proceeded towards the Southern
direction from this town. It was also from this place that Shri Ram had the first view of the sea.
The footprints of Shri Ram are still found in the forests of this area.

13) Ramanathpuram, Tamil Nadu
Ramnathpuram is on the shores of the waters bodies on the Southern tip of India. It is on the way
to holy pilgrim town of Rameshwaram. It is believed that the foundation stone of the Ram-Setu
Bridge constructed by Ram and the entire army to cross over to Sri Lanka is placed here in a
small village called “Chedu Karai”. One can still see the foundation stones of this architectural
wonder ten feet below the waters of the ocean. Vibhishan, after having been insulted by Ravan
had come to seek the help of Ram at this place. The entire strategy for the war was also devised in
this town.
Places worth to visit in the neighborhood include Vilundi Tirth, Ekanth Ram, Agni Tirth, Ram
Jaroka, Kodand Ram Mandir, Jata Tirth and Darbashainam. It is believed that it was in
Darbashainam, that Shri Ram made a Darbasan (a seat of grass) and prayed to Varun Devta (God
of the Sea) for three continuous days for giving him passage to Lanka. Varun Devta (God of the
Sea) appeared after three days and advised Ram to build a bridge across the sea to Lanka.

14) Rameshwaram, Tamil Nadu
Rameshwaram is one of the twelve Jyotirlings in India. Shri Ram had established a Shiv Ling in
the temple here using the sand from the sea. Approximately one or two kilometers from this
temple, Nal vanar (monkey) along with the other vanars (monkeys) had made the bridge to Lanka.
This bridge was constructed in five days only. Shri Ram crossed over to Lanka with his entire
army using this bridge and camped at Suvel Parvat (Mountain).
NASA has used modern satellite technology to photograph this bridge and they have actually
unearthed an ancient bridge connected India to modern day Sri Lanka

Different cultures -Different States - One festival - Diwali

Diwali also known as Deepavali and the “festival of lights“, is an ancient Hindu festival celebrated in autumn every year. The festival spiritually signifies the victory of light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, good over evil, and hope over despair. The festival preparations and rituals typically extend over a five day period, but the main festival night of Diwali coincides with the darkest, new moon night of the Hindu Lunisolar month Kartika. In the Gregorian calendar, Diwali night falls between mid-October and mid-November.

The religious significance of Diwali varies regionally within India, depending on the school of Hindu philosophy, regional myths, legends, and beliefs.

Hinduism

Many see Diwali honoring the return of the Lord Rama, his wife Sita and his brother Lakshmana from exile, as told in the ancient Hindu epic called the Ramayana. To some, Diwali marks the return of Pandavas after 12 years of Vanas and one year of agyatavas in the other ancient Hindu epic called the Mahabharata. Many other Hindus believe Diwali is linked to the celebration of Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity, and wife of deity Vishnu.

Jainism

Diwali has special significance in Jainism. Lord Mahavira, the last of the Jain Tirthankar of this era, attained Nirvana or Moksh on this day at Pavapuri on 15 October 527 BCE, on Chaturdashi of Kartika. According to the Kalpasutra by Acharya Bhadrabahu, 3rd century BC, many gods were present there, illuminating the darkness. Therefore, Jains celebrate Diwali as a day of remembering Mahavira.

Sikhism

Diwali, for Sikhs, marks the Bandi Chhor Divas, when Guru Har Gobind Ji freed himself and Hindu Kings, from Fort Gwalior, from the prison of Islamic ruler Jahangir, and arrived at the Golden Temple in Amritsar. Ever since then, Sikhs celebrate Bandi Choorh Divas, with the annual lighting up of Golden Temple, fireworks and other festivities.

STATE WISE

Telangana/Andhra Pradesh

In Telangana/Andhra Pradesh, the festivities center over two days – Naraka Chaturthasi and Deepavali Amaavasya. The festivities start out at the crack of dawn and carry on well into the night. Most people make a trip to the local temple along with their families to seek the blessings of their respective Gods. The night sky is lit up with a scintillating array of noisy fireworks.

Gujarat

In Gujarat the Diwali celebrations take on a number of distinct characteristics.

Diwali occurs in the second (dark) lunar fortnight (Krishna Paksha) of the month of Ashvin (Gujarati: “Aaso”) and the first (bright) fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of Kartika (Guj: “Kartik”). Aaso is the last month of the Gujarati calendar, and Kartik the first.

Karnataka

Known as Deepavali (ದೀಪಾವಳಿ) in Karnataka, it is celebrated on the day before and day followingAmavasye (New Moon Day) as Naraka Chaturdashi (before new-moon day) resembling Satyabhama’s victory over Narakasura and as Bali Padyami, the first day of Kartika masa

Kerela

Diwali or popularly known locally as Deepavali, falls on the preceding day of the New Moon in the Malayalam month Thulam (October–November). The celebrations are based on the legend ofNarakasura Vadha – where Sri Krishna destroyed the demon and the day Narakasura died is celebrated as Deepavali.

Maharashtra

In Maharashtra, Diwali starts from Vasubaras which is the 12th day of the 2nd half of the Marathi month Ashvin. This day is celebrated by performing an Aarti of the cow and its calf – which is a symbol of love between mother and her baby.

The next day is Dhana Trayodashi. Traders and business people give special importance to this festival. It is also considered an auspicious day for making important purchases, especially metals, including kitchenware and precious metals like silver and gold.

Tamil Nadu

Known as Deepavali(தீபாவளி) in Tamil Nadu (தீப + ஆவளி = தீபாவளி meaning series of lights), it commemorates the death of Narakasura at the hands of Lord Sri Krishna. It is believed that Narakasura, a malevolent demon, tortured common people and they prayed to lord Krishna to defeat him. The people then celebrated Narakasura’s defeat with sparklers, lights and firecrackers. This celebration has continued down the generations as Deepavali. In Tamil Nadu, Diwali falls on the 14th day preceding the amavasya (new moon) in the solar month of Aippasi. The day begins with an early morning oil bath, wearing new clothes, bursting of firecrackers, visiting Lord Ganesha, Lord Vishnu and Shiva temples. The exchange of sweets between neighbours, visiting relations, and preparing Deepavali special sweets are traditions of the day.

Typical Deepavali celebrations begin with waking up early in the morning, before sun rise, followed by an oil-bath. The bathing tradition involves extensive massaging of warm til-oil containing pepper corns and betel leaves

Uttar Pradesh

Diwali is the most important festival in this predominantly Hindu state and is celebrated with great vigor and gaiety. Diwali is celebrated in memory of Lord Rama’s victory over the demon king Ravana and his subsequent homecoming to Ayodhya after 14 years in exile

West Bengal, Northeast Bihar, & Assam

Kali Puja is light-up night for West Bengal, Mithila region of Bihar & Assam. Kali Puja coincides with the festival of Diwali (pronounced Dipaboli in Bengali), (in Maithili, it is known as Diya-Baati) where people light diyas/candles in memory of the souls of departed ancestors. The goddess Kali is worshiped, not Lakshmi, for whole night on one night during this festival. The festival is popularly called Kali puja, not Diwali. Kali puja is also known by the names of Shyama puja or Nisha puja in parts of the Mithila region and West Bengal.

Scientific Reasons Behind Hindu Traditions

1.  Joining Both Palms Together To Greet

In Hindu culture, people greet each other by joining their palms – termed as “Namaskar.” The general reason behind this tradition is that greeting by joining both the palms means respect. However, scientifically speaking, joining both hands ensures joining the tips of all the fingers together; which are denoted to the pressure points of eyes, ears, and mind. Pressing them together is said to activate the pressure points which helps us remember that person for a long time. And, no germs since we don’t make any physical contact!

2. Why Do Indian Women Wear Toe Ring

image courtesy

Wearing toe rings is not just the significance of married women but there is science behind it. Normally toe rings are worn on the second toe. A particular nerve from the second toe connects the uterus and passes to heart. Wearing toe ring on this finger strengthens the uterus. It will keep it healthy by regulating the blood flow to it and menstrual cycle will be regularized. As Silver is a good conductor, it also absorbs polar energies from the earth and passes it to the body.

3. Throwing Coins Into A River

The general reasoning given for this act is that it brings Good Luck. However, scientifically speaking, in the ancient times, most of the currency used was made of copper unlike the stainless steel coins of today. Copper is a vital metal very useful to the human body. Throwing coins in the river was one way our fore-fathers ensured we intake sufficient copper as part of the water as rivers were the only source of drinking water. Making it a custom ensured that all of us follow the practice.

4. Applying Tilak/KumKum On The Forehead

On the forehead, between the two eyebrows, is a spot that is considered as a major nerve point in human body since ancient times. The Tilak is believed to prevent the loss of “energy”, the red ‘kumkum’ between the eyebrows is said to retain energy in the human body and control the various levels of concentration. While applying kumkum the points on the mid-brow region and Adnya-chakra are automatically pressed. This also facilitates the blood supply to the face muscles.

5. Why Do Temples Have Bells

People who are visiting the temple should and will Ring the bell before entering the inner sanctum (Garbhagudi or Garbha Gruha or womb-chamber) where the main idol is placed. According to Agama Sastra, the bell is used to give sound for keeping evil forces away and the ring of the bell is pleasant to God. However, the scientific reason behind bells is that their ring clears our mind and helps us stay sharp and keep our full concentration on devotional purpose. These bells are made in such a way that when they produce a sound it creates a unity in the Left and Right parts of our brains. The moment we ring the bell, it produces a sharp and enduring sound which lasts for minimum of 7 seconds in echo mode. The duration of echo is good enough to activate all the seven healing centres in our body. This results in emptying our brain from all negative thoughts.

6. Why We Start With Spice & End With Sweet:

Our ancestors have stressed on the fact that our meals should be started off with something spicy and sweet dishes should be taken towards the end. The significance of this eating practice is that while spicy things activate the digestive juices and acids and ensure that the digestion process goes on smoothly and efficiently, sweets or carbohydrates pulls down the digestive process. Hence, sweets were always recommended to be taken as a last item.

7.  Why Do We Applying Mehendi/Henna On The Hand And Feet

Besides lending color to the hands, mehndi is a very powerful medicinal herb. Weddings are stressful, and often, the stress causes headaches and fevers. As the wedding day approaches, the excitement mixed with nervous anticipation can take its toll on the bride and groom. Application of mehndi can prevent too much stress because it cools the body and keeps the nerves from becoming tense. This is the reason why mehndi is applied on the hands and feet, which house nerve endings in the body.

8. Sitting On The Floor & Eating

This tradition is not just about sitting on floor and eating, it is regarding sitting in the “Sukhasan” position and then eating. Sukhasan is the position we normally use for Yoga asanas. When you sit on the floor, you usually sit cross legged – In sukhasana or a half padmasana  (half lotus), which are poses that instantly bring a sense of calm and help in digestion, it is believed to automatically trigger the signals to your brain to prepare the stomach for digestion.

9. Why You Should Not To Sleep With Your Head Towards North

Myth is that it invites ghost or death but science says that it is because human body has its own magnetic field (Also known as hearts magnetic field, because the flow of blood) and Earth is a giant magnet. When we sleep with head towards north, our body’s magnetic field become completely asymmetrical to the Earth’s Magnetic field. That cause problems related to blood pressure and our heart needs to work harder in order to overcome this asymmetry of Magnetic fields. Apart from this another reason is that Our body have significant amount of iron in our blood. When we sleep in this position, iron from the whole body starts to congregate in brain. This can cause headache, Alzheimer’s Disease, Cognitive Decline, Parkinson disease and brain degeneration.

10. Why We Pierce Ear

Piercing the ears has a great importance in Indian ethos. Indian physicians and philosophers believe that piercing the ears helps in the development of intellect, power of thinking and decision making faculties. Talkativeness fritters away life energy. Ear piercing helps in speech-restraint. It helps to reduce impertinent behavior and the ear-channels become free from disorders. This idea appeals to the Western world as well, and so they are getting their ears pierced to wear fancy earrings as a mark of fashion.

11. Surya Namaskar

Hindus have a tradition of paying regards to Sun God early in the morning by their water offering ritual. It was mainly because looking at Sun rays through water or directly at that time of the day is good for eyes and also by waking up to follow this routine, we become prone to a morning lifestyle and mornings are proven to be the most effective part of the day.

12. Choti On The Male Head

Sushrut rishi, the foremost surgeon of Ayurveda, describes the master sensitive spot on the head as Adhipati Marma, where there is a nexus of all nerves. The shikha protects this spot. Below, in the brain, occurs the Brahmarandhra, where the sushumnã (nerve) arrives from the lower part of the body. In Yog, Brahmarandhra is the highest, seventh chakra, with the thousand-petalled lotus. It is the centre of wisdom. The knotted shikhã helps boost this centre and conserve its subtle energy known as ojas.

13. Why Do We Fast

The underlying principle behind fasting is to be found in Ayurveda. This ancient Indian medical system sees the basic cause of many diseases as the accumulation of toxic materials in the digestive system. Regular cleansing of toxic materials keeps one healthy. By fasting, the digestive organs get rest and all body mechanisms are cleansed and corrected. A complete fast is good for heath, and the occasional intake of warm lemon juice during the period of fasting prevents the flatulence. Since the human body, as explained by Ayurveda, is composed of 80% liquid and 20% solid, like the earth, the gravitational force of the moon affects the fluid contents of the body. It causes emotional imbalances in the body, making some people tense, irritable and violent. Fasting acts as antidote, for it lowers the acid content in the body which helps people to retain their sanity. Research suggests there are major health benefits to caloric restriction like reduced risks of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, immune disorders etc.

14. The Scientific Explanation Of Touching Feet (Charan Sparsh)

Usually, the person of whose feet you are touching is either old or pious. When they accept your respect which came from your reduced ego (and is called your shraddha) their hearts emit positive thoughts and energy (which is called their karuna) which reaches you through their hands and toes. In essence, the completed circuit enables flow of energy and increases cosmic energy, switching on a quick connect between two minds and hearts. To an extent, the same is achieved through handshakes and hugs. The nerves that start from our brain spread across all your body. These nerves or wires end in the fingertips of your hand and feet. When you join the fingertips of your hand to those of their opposite feet, a circuit is immediately formed and the energies of two bodies are connected. Your fingers and palms become the ‘receptor’ of energy and the feet of other person become the ‘giver’ of energy.

15. Why Married Women Apply Sindoor Or Vermillion

It is interesting to note that that the application of sindoor by married women carries a physiological significance. This is so because Sindoor is prepared by mixing turmeric-lime and the metal mercury. Due to its intrinsic properties, mercury, besides controlling blood pressure also activates sexual drive. This also explains why Sindoor is prohibited for the widows. For best results, Sindoor should be applied right upto the pituitary gland where all our feelings are centered. Mercury is also known for removing stress and strain.

16. Why Do We Worship Peepal Tree

‘Peepal’ tree is almost useless for an ordinary person, except for its shadow. ‘Peepal’ does not a have a delicious fruit, its wood is not strong enough for any purpose then why should a common villager or person worship it or even care for it? Our ancestors knew that ‘Peepal’ is one of the very few trees (or probably the only tree) which produces oxygen even at night. So in order to save this tree because of its unique property they related it to God/religion.

17. Why Do We Worship Tulsi Plant

Hindu religion has bestowed ‘Tulsi’, with the status of mother. Also known as ‘Sacred or Holy Basil’, Tulsi, has been recognized as a religious and spiritual devout in many parts of the world. The vedic sages knew the benefits of Tulsi and that is why they personified it as a Goddess and gave a clear message to the entire community that it needs to be taken care of by the people, literate or illiterate. We try to protect it because it is like Sanjeevani for the mankind. Tulsi has great medicinal properties. It is a remarkable antibiotic. Taking Tulsi everyday in tea or otherwise increases immunity and help the drinker prevent diseases, stabilize his or her health condition, balance his or her body system and most important of all, prolong his or her life. Keeping Tulsi plant at home prevents insects and mosquitoes from entering the house. It is said that snakes do not dare to go near a Tulsi plant. Maybe that is why ancient people would grow lots of Tulsi near their houses.

18. Why Do We Worship Idol

Hinduism propagates idol worship more than any other religion. Researchers say that this was initiated for the purpose of increasing concentration during prayers. According to psychiatrists, a man will shape his thoughts as per what he sees. If you have 3 different objects in front of you, your thinking will change according to the object you are viewing. Similarly, in ancient India, idol worship was established so that when people view idols it is easy for them to concentrate to gain spiritual energy and meditate without mental diversion

19. Why Do Indian Women Wear Bangles

Normally the wrist portion is in constant activation on any human. Also the pulse beat in this portion is mostly checked for all sorts of ailments. The Bangles used by women are normally in the wrist part of ones hand and its constant friction increases the blood circulation level. Further more the electricity passing out through outer skin is again reverted to one’s own body because of the ring shaped bangles, which has no ends to pass the energy outside but to send it back to the body.

20. Why Should We Visit Temple?

Temples are located strategically at a place where the positive energy is abundantly available from the magnetic and electric wave distributions of north/south pole thrust. The main idol is placed in the core center of the temple, known as “*Garbhagriha*” or *Moolasthanam*. In fact, the temple structure is built after the idol has been placed. This *Moolasthanam* is where earth’s magnetic waves are found to be maximum. We know that there are some copper plates, inscribed with Vedic scripts, buried beneath the Main Idol. What are they really? No, they are not God’s / priests’ flash cards when they forget the *shlokas*. The copper plate absorbs earth’s magnetic waves and radiates it to the surroundings. Thus a person regularly visiting a temple and walking clockwise around the Main Idol receives the beamed magnetic waves and his body absorbs it. This is a very slow process and a regular visit will let him absorb more of this positive energy. Scientifically, it is the positive energy that we all require to have a healthy life.

Athala Vithala Suthala Thalaathala Rasaathala Paathaala

Lower chakras
There are said to be a series of seven chakras below muladhara going down the leg, corresponding the base animal instincts, and to the Hindu underworld patala. They are called atala, vitala, sutala, talatala, rasatala, mahatala and patala.

Atala
This chakra is located in the hips, it governs fear and lust. The opposing attribute to balance this chakra is governed by the right to be sexual.
Vitala
Located in the thighs, it governs anger and resentment. The opposing attribute to balance this chakra is forgiveness.
Sutala
Located in the knees, it governs jealousy. The opposing attribute to balance this chakra is the right to be self-confident.
Talatala
Translated as 'under the bottom level', it is located in the calves, and it is a state of prolonged confusion and instinctive wilfulness. The opposing attribute to balance this chakra is the right to be conscious.
Rasatala
Located in the ankles, it is the centre of selfishness and pure animal nature. The opposing attribute to balance this chakra is the right to be charitable.
Mahatala
Located in the feet, this is the dark realm 'without conscience', and inner blindness. The opposing attribute to balance this chakra is the right to be expansive and unimpeded.
Patala
Located in the soles of the feet, this is the realm of malice, murder, torture and hatred, and in Hindu mythology it borders on the realm of Naraka, or Hell. The opposing attribute to balance this chakra is the right to be empathetic and understanding.

Sahasra

Aagna

Vishudha

Anahatha

Manipura

Swadhistana

Mulaadhara

(7 upper +7 lower = 14)