Famous Keshava Temple, Somnathpur, Karnataka, India

About : Keshava Temple, Somanathapura, Karnataka

Keshava Temple, Somnathpur

The Keshava Temple is located in Somanathapura town in Mysore district, Karnataka. The Keshava temple at Somanathapura is another magnificent Hoysala monument, perhaps the last. This is a breathtakingly beautiful Trikuta Temple dedicated to Lord Krishna in three forms – Janardhana, Keshava and Venugopala. Unfortunately, the main Keshava idol is missing, and the Janardhana and Venugopala idols are damaged. Still this temple is worth a visit just to soak in the artistry and sheer talent of the sculptors who created this magnificent monument to the Divine.

History : Keshava Temple, Somanathapura

The Keshava Temple at Somanathapura was constructed by a commander of the Hoysala Army, Somanatha. This general had just established a small town here named after himself – Somanathapura. Obviously enjoying the favor of his overlord, the Hoysala King Narasimha III, he appealed to the king for permission and resources to undertake the project of building the magnificent temple. With the blessing of the king, the construction was started. The temple was finished and consecrated in 1268 AD. There is an Old Kannada inscription on a stone slab in the temple which gives all these details.

 

Architecture : Keshava Temple, Somanathapura

Keshava Temple, Somnathpur, Karnataka

The Keshava temple is built on a raised platform with an outer Pradakshina pathway. The temple has a stellar plan with three shrines and Vimanas. The walls are covered in beautiful friezes of scenes from the epics, figures of elephants and battle scenes depicting cavalry. The section above this is covered with carvings of various deities. The stellar plan creates several corners and niches that provide different canvases for the sculptor and each row carries a different pattern. The exquisite carvings are like a jeweler’s work. The ceilings also carry beautiful decorations.

There are three shrines in this temple with three Vimanas, so this is a Trikuta Temple.

Facts : Keshava Temple, Somanathapura

This Hoysala temple is stunningly beautiful. Unfortunately, this temple is no longer used as a place of worship because the idols here have been broken and the temple was desecrated by the invading armies of the Muslim Sultanate. But the beautiful temple still charms visitors and reminds people of the magnificent artistic and engineering achievements of the era.

How to Get to Keshava Temple, Somanathapura, Karnataka.

Somanathapura is 38 km from Mysore. You can get bus service from Mysore and Srirangapatna to Somanathapura. There is also a Railway Station in Somanathapura. You can visit this temple throughout the year, as there is no particular time.

Contacts:

Temple: Keshava Temple
District: Mysore
Town: Somanathapura
Keshava Temple, Somanathapura, Karnataka, India

Famous Jaisalmer City For Visit In Rajasthan, India

About : Famous Jaisalmer City

Rajmahal Jaisalmer

The History of Jaisalmer has a charm of its own. Like all other cities of Rajasthan, Jaisalmer too has its own glorious past to boast about. History of Jaisalmer draws heavily from the history of the Rajputana. The city is said to be founded by one Raja Rawal Jaisal, a Bhatti Rajput ruler, in approximately 1156 A D. Legends go by that he did it on the behest of a local hermit named Eesaal. The raja choose Trikut hill as the new site for his fort. This was because he thought that his previous abode at Luderwa (16 km from present Jaisalmer) was vulnerable towards possible enemy assault.

In medieval times, Jaisalmer continued to be on the focus of the masses because of its location. It falls in the way of one of the two routes, which connected India from Persia, Egypt, Africa and the west. The Bhatti Rajput rulers were still in line. They were the sole guardian of the city and thus mustered enough wealth through taxes levied on the passing caravans, of which there was no scarcity.

For many years Jaisalmer remained out of bound from the foreign rulers partly because of its location and partly because of its relief. In the mid Thirteenth century, Ala-ud-din Khilji, the Turk-Afghan ruler of Delhi laid the siege over the city. He was apparently upset with the Bhatti Rajput rulers because they stopped and looted one of his caravans containing royal coffer
which was on its way to Sind. The siege lasted for around 9 long years and when the fall seemed eminent the Rajput womenfolk of the city committed Jauhar (self Immolation to avoid disgrace).

Golden Fort Jaisalmer

It is said that Duda, the son of Raja Jaisimha, fought vehemently in the battle but was overpowered after the fierce hand to hand combat. He died fighting. His descendants continued to rule the city. Though they had a cordial relation with the Mughal rulers in Delhi, they fought unsuccessfully with Emperor Humayun. Emperor Shah Jahan gave the right of governance to Sabala Simha, who had the royal patronage and had shown remarkable valor to win the Battle of Peshawar.

In the modern era, Jaisalmer was still a tough nut to crack and was the last among the Rajputana royals to sign the 'Instrument of Agreement' with the British establishment. Even that was achieved after long hours on the negotiation table and after much cajoling from the British establishment in India. In the year 1947, royals signed the agreement to remain in just independent India. Since then it has developed itself into a major tourist destination as well as a cultural hub of the western India. 

Jeep Safari in Jaisalmer

If you think you are more on adventure side then try the Jeep safari to explore the Desert in Jaisalmer. These are done on 4X4 Jeeps that are really powerful machines customized in to 4-wheel drive. These Jeeps are open and are strict no-no in summers. The direct sunray in desert in the summers is very harmful to skin. There are chances that you will get heat stroke. But in winters, jeep safari in Jaisalmer is a thing worth trying. You can opt for short trips such as Fossil park or Desert National park that are situated in the radius of 50 odd Km. You can also opt for Sam Sand Dunes that is about 40 Km away. We suggest you to spend at least a night in the Desert Camp. Night stay charges for Jeep safari are negotiable, so settle for the best bet.

If you want to go for a really long drive then opt for Padholi. This bird sanctuary is nearly 150 Km from Jaisalmer and thus Jeep will be the best possible mode of transport. Spend a night in any of the villages inside the Padholi sanctuary that are still untouched by the outside influence and feel the difference yourself!

Camel Safari in Jaisalmer

Desert Safari Jaisalmer

Camel Safari in JaisalmerThe name Jaisalmer is an addiction in itself. You can see the long stretches of sand dunes as far as your eyes can go. The golden crests and troughs provide you with the sense of limitlessness. It is said while in Rome do as the Romans do. So, why opt for SUV when you have a camel. Take a camel safari to experience the limitless Thar Desert. Welcome to Jaisalmer!
A number of travel agents and tour operators in Rajasthan organize camel safaris. Most of these are in the vicinity of Jaisalmer, Bikaner, Osian and Khimsar and stretch from anywhere between 2 to 7 days, with longer ones up to a month. There are shorter daylong camel safaris too, which give you a glimpse of the desert. The majority of camel safaris start from the desert fort town of Jaisalmer. In most cases, one camel is provided per person and a camel cart accompanies the entourage, laden with food, utensils and other supplies; it's also an option for anyone who gets sick of sitting on a lurching camel. Tents, food, mineral water, mattresses and an escort are invariably provided, and most operators will also make sure that you get a full dose of local entertainment in the evenings. For longer camel safaris, which are spread over a few days, camps are usually set up at night in the vicinity of villages.

Shopping in Jaisalmer

 
Shopping in JaisalmerYour Jaisalmer trip would be incomplete if you don't buy some typical Jaisalmer goods as souvenirs for your near and dear ones. A number of traditional Rajasthani handicrafts are available in Jaisalmer. Jaisalmer is famous for embroidery, Rajasthani mirror work, rugs, blankets, antiques and old stonework. There are lots of shops but try to venture in government owned and operated ones. This will save you extra dollars that would have gone in the pockets of guides in the form of commission. If you want to buy fabrics such as Tie-dye and other fabrics, try the government operated Khadi Gramuddyog Bhavan.

Shop for exquisitely carved wooden boxes in tiny curio shops. Traditional rugs, hand woven blankets and shawls in typical Rajasthani color and weave are also available. Don't miss to buy souvenirs for your dear ones. In that case, Mirror work, embroiders article silver jewelry, Trickles and Curios are must buys of Jaisalmer. The shopping spots are within the fort and include Sadar Bazar, Sonaron ka Bass, Manak Chowk, Pansari bazar, Gandhi Darshan, Seema gram, Rajsthani Govt. shop and Khadi Gramuddyog Emporium. Apart from these popular markets, you also have the option to send gifts to Jaisalmer online for occasions such as Rakhi, Diwali, Navratri and Holi.

Nightlife in Jaisalmer

 
Nightlife in JaisalmerJaisalmer has little nightlife, but plenty to keep you occupied in the form of traditional dances, a desert light show and the like. Most hotels have some form of evening entertainment for their guests too, so you are unlikely to get bored. Nearly all of them organise cultural programs in the evening. All the major high-end hotels have their private discotheques and are opened till late hours of night.

Where to Eat in Jaisalmer

 
Where to Eat in JaisalmerThe city of Jaisalmer has a rich cultural heritage and thus it boasts of a rich cuisine as well. The western part of India has a distinct food culture of its own and it is very different from the other Indian cuisines. If you have done with the oily and sticky dishes they serve in Delhi, try murgh-e-subz. The murgh-e-subz - succulent, boneless strips of chicken stir-fried with shredded vegetables -- is one not to miss. There are other options for non-vegetarians too. Alternatively, you can try the ker sangri (desert beans and capers), which is unique to a region that is traditionally vegetarian in its outlook. If you find your stomach to be very sensitive then its better you try kadi pakora; flour dumplings cooked in yogurt sauce, or bhanon aloo, potatoes stuffed with mint paste and simmered in gravy. All of it washed down with the coldest beers and beverages available in the state.

'Trio' is one of the most famous restaurants serving authentic Rajasthani cusienes. This unassuming eatery, with its open walls and thin cotton flaps providing a welcome through-breeze (not to mention views of the town and the maharaja's palace) is Jaisalmer top restaurant and one of the best in Rajasthan. Witness the traditional Rajasthani reception. It's not just that the food is delicious, but the chef brings a few interesting variations to signature Rajasthani dishes- a welcome relief to someone who has exhausted the almost standardized North Indian menu. 'Chokhi Dhani' is another famous restaurant, which can be trusted. Though it is not as good as 'Trio' but you will get a long list of cuisines to select from, under one roof. Besides, all major High-end Hotels have their own in house Restaurants.

As far as fast food joints are concerned, Jaisalmer has lots of them. Famous Indian fast-food chain such as Nirula's has already made its presence felt in the city. Other major fast foods joints such as Pizza Hut, Pizza Corner and Mc. Donald's etc have also opened their outlets in the city.

 

How to Reach Jaisalmer

 
How to reach JaisalmerJaisalmer is situated in the very heart of Rajasthan and a popular tourist destination therefore it is well connected to the rest of India and Rajasthan with airways, railways as well as roadways.

How to reach Jaisalmer by Airways
 
Though Jaisalmer is not directly connected to Airways as such, Jodhpur airport is 300 Km away. Jodhpur is connected to all the major metros of India by government owned as well as private airlines. From Jodhpur you can hire Cabs or take a train journey according to your wish and preference.

How to reach Jaisalmer by Railways
 
Jaisalmer is connected to major cities of India through broad gauge as well as meter gauge railway tracks. Direct trains from Jaisalmer are available to Jodhpur as well as Delhi. Jaisalmer is connected through both 'Broad gauge' as well as 'Meter gauge' tracks. You can also travel to Jaisalmer by Palace on Wheels.

How to reach Jaisalmer by Roadways
 
Jaisalmer is well connected to the rest of state by well-maintained roads. Due to its proximity to Indo-Pak boarder, special emphasis is given on its maintenance. Deluxe & Ordinary buses of Rajasthan Roadways & Private companies operate form Jaisalmer to Jodhpur, Jaipur, Bikaner, Barmer, Mount Abu, Jalore, Ahemdabad etc, Roadways main bus stand opposite Railway station & Golden bus terminal near State Bank of Bikaner and Jaipur, Shiv road, Jaisalmer are the two major bus stands.

Local transportation in Jaisalmer
 
General transportation in Jaisalmer consists of auto rickshaw and bicycles because these are good means to get around. Auto rickshaw is a cheap mode of transportation but drivers might not be friendly all the times. It is recommended to take rickshaw when you take congested roads in order to avoid bottlenecks.

Jain Temple Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, India | Jain Temples

Jain Temple Jaisalmer

About : Jain Temple Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, India

Location: In the Jaisalmer Fort
How to reach: Take a rickshaw or share an auto rickshaw.
Attraction: Dilwara style paintings, Architecture.
Timings: Early morning till 12 noon.

Jain Temples situated in the Jaisalmer Fort are a must visit site in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. You will find these temples to be very old and high pilgrimage as well as archeological value attached to them. These are a group of Jain temples dating back 12th and 15th centuries and are dedicated to various Jain Tirthankars (Hermits). On the walls of the temples, you can find animal & human figures, carved in famous Dilwara style.

These temples are built in the Dilwara style that is famous all over the world for its architecture. The style got its name from the famous 'Dilwara Temples' situated on Mount Abu, a famous Hill station and pilgrimage destination in Rajasthan. The Jain temples in the Jaisalmer Fort are dedicated to Rikhabdevji and Shambhavdev Ji, the famous Jain hermits known as 'Tirthankars'. Like all other structures in Jaisalmer, these temples are craved of yellow sandstones. The beautifully carves decorations on the wall will give you divine peace. The Astapadhi Temples that are situated in the same complex are a must visit too.

The temple complex is open through out the morning till 12noon, for the visitors. So try to get up a bit early or you might miss this splendor. The campus also contain Gyan Bhandar library. Well if you are a student of comparative archeology or otherwise, the library will prove to be a good place to prowl as it contains some of the rare manuscripts available in India.

Dudhsagar India's 5th tallest waterfall | Dudhsagar Waterfall

Dudhsagar Waterfall

Dudhsagar India's 5th tallest waterfall 

About Dudhsagar Waterfall :

The magnificent Dudhsagar Waterfall is perched in the high peaks of the Western Ghats and is a sight to behold especially in the monsoons when it is in full and furious flow. From a distance, the waterfall appears like streams of milk rushing down the mountainside. The exhuberent and spectacular waterfall is located in the Sanguem taluka.During the monsoon season however, the falls are transformed into one of the most powerful falls in India.
Dudhsagar Falls is listed as India's 5th tallest waterfall,and is 227th in the world at 310 M. The water plummets hundreds of feet in large volumes during the monsoon season, formingone of the most spectacular natural phenomena in Goa. 

Dudhsagar Waterfall

Measuring a mighty 600m from head to foot, this waterfall on the Goa-Karnataka border, attracts a steady stream of visitors from the coast into the rugged Western Ghats. After pouring across the Deccan plateau, the headwaters of the Mandovi River form a foaming torrent that splits into three streams to cascade down a near-vertical cliff face into a deep green pool.

The Konkani name for the falls, which literally translated means "sea of milk", derives from clouds of milky foam which rises up at the bottom of the falls. Dudhsagar is set amidst breathtaking scenery overlooking a steep, crescent-shaped head of a valley carpeted with pristine tropical forest, that is only accessible on foot or by train.

Like most places in Goa, the Dudhsagar waterfall too has a legend attached to its name. The legend tells the story of this powerful and wealthy king who ruled a kingdom in the Western Ghats. His lavish and opulent palace in the hills was surrounded by vast gardens which were full of deers and gazelles.

The King had a beautiful daughter, who used to enjoy taking a bath during the hot summers, in the picturesque lake near the forest on the edge of the King's palace grounds. It was her habit to finish her bath and have a jugful of sugared milk in a jug made of pure gold.

One day when she was finishing her usual jug of milk she found herself being watched by a handsome prince standing amongst the trees. Embarassed by her inadequate bathing attire, the resourceful Princess poured the sugared milk in front of her to form an improvised curtain to hide her body, while one of the maids rushed to cover her with a dress.

Thus was the legend born. The sugared milk (dudh) poured down the mountainside and continued to flow in torrents as a tribute to the everlasting virtue and modesty of the Princess of the Ghats. The Dudh Sagar (Sea of Milk) continues to flow to this day and attracts thousands of visitors to one of the most popular and famous tourist spots in the state of Goa.

A number of private operators offer special trips to the Waterfalls and the tours operated by GTDC (Goa Tourism Development Corpn) also have Dudhsagar Waterfalls as one of the tour stops.

The falls can also be reached by a train journey from Vasco or Margao. At Collem, in the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary near Mollem, there is a railway station where the train stops to pick up passengers for the journey to the waterfalls. There are two trains a day that stop at Dudhsagar Station and it's possible to catch a morning train up and spend several hours at the falls before taking an afternoon train back.

Near the top of the falls, the railway line from Vasco to Londa crosses the mountainside, with excellent views from the train. There also a couple of pools that you can swim in, making Dudhsagar a great place for a day full of fun and frolic. The alternate way of reaching the falls is only advisable between January and May, when the level of the water in the rivers abates enough to permit jeeps to approach the base of the falls.


Best time to visit: 

The good time to visit this magnificent falls and soak in its beauty is the Monsoon when the falls become active. It might get risky travelling to the waterfall during monsoon as the roads get slippery. However, visiting the Dudhsagar after the Monsoons form October to Mid December is a great idea as the roads are dry and safe and the fall still full of water.

How to reach Dudhsagar falls by Bus: 

Being the most popular waterfall in Goa, Dudhsagar forms a major sightseeing option on a tour organized by the Goa tourism Development Corporation (GTDC), or any other Private operators. The Dudhsagar falls is easily accessible by a train journey from Vasco or Margao. The train stops at Colllem in the Bhagwan Sanctuary near Mollem before reaching Dudhsagar falls. If you want reach the spot by the road then you can take jeep from the railway station of Collem. The roadway is recommended only between January and May when the level of the water permits the jeep to reach the base of the Dudhsagar falls. The interstate bus stand is at Ponda. Buses and taxis are also available from panaji to reach the Dudhsagar falls.

How to reach Dudhsagar falls by Train:  

It is 10 kilometers from Kulem Railway Station. This waterfalls lies on the Londa-Madgaon railway route. To view this waterfalls from close distance, travel by Delhi-Goa express (12780), Pune-Ernakulam Express(11098), Chennai-VascoDaGama Express or Miraj-Castle Rock passenger train which starts from Miraj rail junction. The falls is border for Karnataka and Goa states. One can also reach from Karnataka. The only accessible connectivity is Train. The station route is Hubli->Dharwad->Londa (or Belgaum->Londa)->Castle Rock->Kannai Ghat-> Doodha Sagar.

Akkalkot Niwasi Shree Swami Samarth Maharaj, Akkalkot, Maharashtra,India

Akkalkot Niwasi Shree Swami Samarth Maharaj

Shree Swami Samarth Maharaj

Shrimad Nrusimha Saraswati - Incarnation of Lord Dattareya
In a place called Karanja Nagar (Karnataka State) in Southern India, there lived a pious Brahmin couple, Madhava and Ambabhavani, in the 13th century.

Asceticism
To this God-fearing & religious couple, was born a son around 1275 A.D. This child was the incarnation of Lord Dattatreya and came to be known as the great sage Shrimad Nrusimha Saraswati. The child was unique in the sense that, he was chanting only 'Aum' (the Hindu holy chant) since his birth. The parents were concerned about his dumbness till his 'Vratabandha' (the sacred thread bearing ceremony), when this child was merely eight years old, he started reciting all the four Vedas (the Holiest Hindu scriptures)

to the great astonishment of all the learned people.

After the aforesaid incident, the child left for Kashi(Uttar Pradesh State, Northern India) for Tapas [penance]. Pleased with his rigorous tapasya [penance], a learned ascetic named Shree Krishna Saraswati Swami, initiated him into Sanyasashram (Ascetism) and gave him the name, Shrimad Nrusimha Saraswati.

Biography
The biography of Shrimad Nrusimha Saraswati "Shree Gurucharitra", gives us the details of his work in guiding the devotees and the various miracles he performed to help the devotees. He stayed at Ganagapur (Karnataka State, Southern India) for a long time and then gave his "Nirguna Padukas" to his disciples and devotees, before leaving for the Kardali forests to perform Tapas [penance]. His disciples prepared a floating seat of flowers for him on which he sailed against the current of the river Patalganga and disappeared.

Rigorous Penance
He performed rigorous tapasya [penance] on the Shree Shail mountain in the Kardali forests for nearly 150 years. After this he took an extensive pilgrimage, covering even places, now known as Jawa, Sumatra, Indonesia, China, Japan, Australia etc., relieved many people from their miseries, and guided them on the spiritual path. Finally, he came to the ranges of Himalayas where he enlightened
many devotees. Later he sat under a Deodar tree for tapasya [penance]. This Tapasya [penance] in the Himalayas lasted for nearly 250 years, but a woodcutter unknowingly axed the anthill enveloping the body of Shrimad Nrusimha Saraswati. This resulted in the break in Tapasya [penance] and Shrimad Nrusimha Saraswati then left for an extensive travel throughout the Indian sub-continent guiding the devotees.
Akkalkot Niwasi Shree Swami Samarth
During this travel, he became popular by various names at various places. Thus at one place he was known as Chanchal Bharati and at another place he would be called Digambar Swami. As he travelled and stayed at various places, he became the Guru (preceptor) of many great souls like Shree Ramkrishna Paramahansa, Shree Saibaba of Shirdi, Shree Shankar Maharaj, Shree Gajajan Maharaj of Shegaon etc. Finally he settled down at Akkalkot (Maharashtra State) and stayed there for 24 years from 1854 A.D. to 1878 A.D. and thus came to be known as the Akkalkot Niwasi Shree Swami Samarth Maharaj (the great sage of Akkalkot).

Here he enlightened many disciples, such as Shree Dev Mamledar, Shree Balappa Maharaj, Shree Cholappa Maharaj, Shree Nrusimha Saraswati Maharaj of Alandi, Shree Ramanand Beedkar Maharaj of Pune etc.

Mahasamaadhi
On April 30, 1878 (Chaitra Vadya Trayodashi of Hindu year 1800) after nearly 600 years of the incarnation, the great sage adopted MahaSamadhi [the last conscious communion with God] under his favourite Banyan tree.

Devotees still experience his divine presence and feel reassured because of his quote "I have not gone, I am still present".



How to reach Akkalkot : 

Akkalkot is one of Block(Tehsil) under solapur district. Solapur is well connected from Pune, Hyderabad and Bangalore by rail. There are many trains & buses from each stations to Solapur. It is around 675 – 700kms from Bangalore, 300 Km from Hyderabad and 270 Km from Pune. So reach the Solapur by train, bus or Air(Single flight from Mumbai daily). Akkalkot is 45 km away from Solapur towards east. You can reach there by state transport buses with Rs. 40 or you can take cab/Taxi from solapur to reach akkalkot.


Contact Information :

Akkalkot-Niwasi Shree Swami Samarth Mandir

Shree Swami Samarth Nagar,
Off Four Bunglows,
Andheri (West),
MUMBAI
Pin Code : 400 053
Maharashtra State
INDIA
Phone : 022 - 2 633 30 30
Timings : 06.00 A.M. to 11.00 A.M. and 04.00 P.M. to 09.00 P.M. (IST).
Temple of Akkalkot Niwasi Shree Swami Samarth Maharaj

Shani Shingnapur, Ahemadnagar, Maharashtra, India

Shani Dev

Shri Shaneshwar Devasthan Shanishingnapur

Shri Shaneshwar Devasthan Shanishingnapur's legend in District Ahmednagar is famous, far and wide, as the shrine of countless devotees. The number of its unbelievable miracles finds its place of pride in The Guinness book of World Records. Ahmednagar's population is known popularly as the place of saints. God Shani occupies a place of fear in the minds of most people in India. There is needless terror about God Shani in the minds of people. Unlike other Gods in the pantheon, why are you scared of God Shani? Although he is your friend, and not your enemy? In our day to day life, there is a great place of importance for strength and mercy in our lives.

Our bodies are constituted of five great elements. Therefore, these elements have a profound influence on
us. These planets thus control us continuously. God Shani occupies the seventh place in the constellation of the nine 'grahas' which control the world. God Shani exerts more power than the power of gravity itself. Therefore, when we think good or bad thoughts and make plans, they reach God Shani by the strength of his power. Thus, good results in good. And bad begets bad results soon.Among the people of Maharashtra and India itself, the greatness and grandeur of Shanishingnapur if spread far and wide. But the fame of God Shani has reached far and wide, even beyond the seven seas. After the 'darshan' of this world famous Devasthan and God Shani, this information based on social, religious, scientific, ' Sanskritic ', geographical and familial experiences is being made available to all devotees.

The story and history

Shani Shingnapur temple

In our routine lives, there is a great importance of the kindness and the power of God Shani. Shani occupies the seventh place among the nine planets which govern the world. This is viewed as unlucky in conventional astrology. As per 'Kaagol Shastra', the distance of Shani from the earth is 9 crore miles. Its radius is about one billion and 82 crore and 60 lakh kilometers. And its gravitational force is 95 times higher than that of the earth. Planet Shani takes 19 years to complete one revolution around the Sun. The astronauts have viewed the Shani's colours as beautiful, strong, influencing and eye-catching. It has twenty two satellites in its ring.

Shani Shingnapur

Shani's gravitational power is more than that of the Earth's. Therefore, when we think good or bad thoughts and make plans, they reach Shani by the strength of his power. In astrological terms, the bad influence is considered as unlucky. But the result of good deeds will be good. Therefore, we must understand God Shani as a friend and not as foe. And for bad deeds, he is Sade Saathi, disaster and an enemy.

As regards the birth of Shani, there are different stories. Foremost and accepted is the one in the ancient 'Scanda Poorana' of Kasi Khanda which is as follows.

God Soorya was married to Daksha Kanya Sadnya. Sadnya could not tolerate the radiance of God Surya. She used to feel that by doing penance she could increase her brilliance. Or, by the power of her penance, she could diminish the glare of God Surya. But for God Surya, she was a spouse worshipping wife. From God Surya, she had three children. One was Vaivastahva Manu. The second was Yama Raj. And the third was Yamuna. Sadnya loved her children very much. But, she was very upset with the radiance of God Surya. One day, she thought that she would separate from God Surya, go to her parents' home and undertake great penance. And if there was opposition, she would go far away to a lonely and undertake great penance.

By strength of her penance, Sadnya created a 'Chaya' (shadow) of herself and named her Suvarna. And, and then the shadow of herself became Suvarna. After handing over the children to Chaya, Sadnya told her that Chaya would thereafter play the role of womanhood and nurse her three children. She told her if any problem arose, she should call her and she would come rushing to her. But she cautioned her that she must remember that she was Chaya, not Sadnya, and nobody should know this difference.

Sadnya hander over her responsibilities to Chaya and went away to her parents' place. She went home and told her father that she could not stand the radiance of God Surya. And therefore, without telling her husband she had come away. Listening to this, her father scolded her very much and told her that without being called, if the daughter returns home, both her and her father would be cursed. He told her to go back to her home immediately. Then, Saudnya began to worry that if she went back, what would happen to the responsibilities which she had given to Chaya. Where would Chaya go? And their secret would be exposed. So, Sadnya went to the dense jungles in Uttar Kurukshetra and took repose there.

She was fearful of her safety in the jungle because of her youthfulness and beauty. And she changed her form into that of a mare so that none could recognize her and started her penance. Elsewhere, the union of God Surya and Chaya begot three children. God Surya and Chaya were happy with each other. Surya never doubted anything. The children of Chaya were Manu, God Shani and Putri Bhadra (Tapti).

As per the second story, the creation of God Shani was the result of Maharishi Kashyap's great 'yagna'. When God Shani was in the womb of Chaya, Shiv Bhaktini Chaya was so engrossed in penance of God Shiva that she did not care for her food even. She prayed so intensely during her penance that the prayers had a profound influence on the child in her womb. As a result of such a great penance of Chaya, without food and shade in the blazing sun, the complexion of God Shani became black. When God Shani was born, Surya was surprised to see his dark complexion. He began to doubt Chaya. He insulted Chaya by saying that this was not his son.

From birth itself, God Shani had inherited the great powers of his mother's penance. He saw that his father was insulting his mother. He saw his father with a cruel gaze. As a result his father's body was charred black. The horses of God Surya's chariot stopped. The chariot would not move. Worried, God Surya called out to God Shiva. God Shiva advised God Surya and explained to him about what had happened. That is, because of him the respect of mother and child had been tarnished and insulted. God Surya accepted his fault and apologized. And regained his earlier glorious looks and the power of his chariot's horses. Since then, God Shani became a good son to his father and mother and an ardent disciple of God Shiva.

Postal address

Temple name     :     Shri shanaishwar devasthan
Address     :             Shanishingnapur, Post: Sonai,
Taluka:                      Nevasa,

 Dist.:                         Ahamadnagar Pin. 414 105, Maharashtra, India.

Jai Shri Salasar Dham | Salasar Balaji Religious Temple, Rajasthan, India

Salasar Balaji Templ

Jai Shri Salasar Dham | Salasar Balaji Temple :

   

ABOUT SALASAR DHAM:

On Saturday, Shravan Shukla-Navami -Samvat 1811, a miracle transpired. A Ginthala-Jat farmer of village Asota in district Nagaur of Rajasthan was ploughing his field. Unexpectedly, the plough was hit by a particular stony thing and the sound - thlikk ... was created. He dug up the soil of that place and found an idol covered with sand. His wife reached there with his lunch packet. The farmer showed the idol to his wife. She wiped the idol with her sari (dress). The idol was that of Balaji i.e. Lord Hanuman. They bowed their heads with devotion and worshipped Lord Balaji. The news of
appearance of Lord Balaji spread in the village Asota immediately. The Thakur of Asota also heard the news. Balaji ordered him in the dream to send the idol to Salasar in the Churu district. The same miraculous night, a devotee of Lord Hanuman, Mohan Dasji Maharaj of Salasar saw Lord Hanuman or Balaji in dream. Lord Balaji told him about the idol of Asota and immediately sent a message to Thakur of Asota. The thakur was surprised to know - How Mohandasji knew minor details without coming to Asota? Lord Hanumanji had appeared for its utmost devotee-Mohandasji. Certainly it was the kindness of Lord Balaji bestowed upon his devotee. Mohandasji spent the most memorable times with Balaji. It is believed that Mohandasji spent his whole youth with Balaji as a friend and took samadhi(alive burial). The idol was sent to Salasar and was permanently affixed at the place known as Salasar Dham.

Entrance of Salasar Temple

Dhunia of Mohandas ji is the place where the holy fire lit by great devotee Mohandas ji is still burning. The devotees take holy ashes from here. It's in the Balaji temple jai hanuman.
Sri Mohan Mandir is situated near Balaji temple. The footprints of Mohandasji and Kanidadi are found there. This place is the samadhi sthal of both holy devotees. The continuous Ramayan reading has been taking place here from last eight years. In the temple premises of Lord Balaji, Akhand Hari Kirtan (Chanting of the name of Rama) is continuing for last 20 years. Such is the miraculous & divine blessing of Balaji that even birds and squirrels join in the Aarti to seek the blessings of Lord Hanumanji. This is an unbelievable sight witnessed by nay devotees.



Who is Lord Hanuman ?

Lord Hanuman

Lord Hanuman was born in Anjaneri (now a hilltop temple). Anjaneri is near Triambakeshwar, Nasik - a pilgrim village in Maharashtra State.
He is the son of Anjani and Maruti, born with the blessings of 'Vayu', the wind god (also called Pavan). He is considered to be an avatar (incarnation) of Lord Shiva.
He is one of the seven Chiranjivis and the only learned scholar who knew the nine Vyakaranas. He learned the shastras from Suryadev, the sun god. He is well versed with the Vedas and other sacred books.
He has exhibited astonishing physical strength and worked many miracles. His valour, wisdom, knowledge of the scriptures and superhuman strength attracted everybody who came near him. He had extraordinary skill in warfare. He is the chosen messenger of Lord Rama and the minister & messenger of Sugreeva. Lord Hanuman is fast - the most agile and oriented god.

Hanumanji is the symbol of Devotion and Service.

How to get there: 

One can either land at Delhi or Jaipur from any part of the country by Rail / Road / Air and from there, one can reach Salasar Balaji.

Location:
Salasar is in district Churu (Rajasthan)
Situated at Jaipur - Bikaner highway.
57 kilometres from Sikar and 24 kilometers from Sujangarh.
Salasar is in Sujangarh Panchayat Samity.
 

Air:
Indian Airlines and Jet Air are having flights up to Jaipur, from where it is 3.5 hours drive in Taxi or Bus.
 

Road:
 

From Delhi:
Delhi - Jaipur - Sikar - Salasar Daily bus services from Delhi - Jaipur - Delhi are operated by DTC, Haryana Roadways and Rajasthan Roadways.
 

From Jaipur:
Jaipur - Choumu - Ringas - Sikar - Salasar Balaji (approx. 150 kms.)
 

Rail: 

Siker, Jaipur nearest rail head to Salasar Balaji. From Delhi - Jaipur: From Old Delhi Station : Ashram Exp., Ahmedabad Delhi Mail, Inter-city Exp. From New Delhi Station : Ahmedabad Rajdhani Exp. (Sat), New Delhi-Ajmer Shatabadi Exp.
           

Climate:

The climate of Rajasthan can be divided into four seasons: Summers, Monsoon, Post-Monsoon and winter.

Brahma Temple In Pushkar, Ajmer, Rajasthan, India

Brahma Temple In Pushkar, Ajmer, Rajasthan

Entrance of Brahma Temple In Pushkar

Brahma Temple In Pushkar, Ajmer, Rajasthan:

History :

Brahma Temple in Pushkar is the only temple dedicated to Lord Brahma, the creator of the universe according to Hindu mythology in India. The temple is nestled in the Pushkar valley which lies beyond Nagaparvat and the Anasagar Lake, Rajasthan. Brahma is among the trinity of Hindu Gods, the other two being Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. Built in the 14th century, Brahma Temple is an important pilgrim place for Hindus. Other than the Brahma Temple, Pushkar also boasts of dedicated to Lord Mahadev, Lord Varah and Lord Ramvaikunth.

Pushkar is regarded as a holy place as it was here that Lord Brahma, together with all the gods and goddesses performed a ‘Yagna’ (self-mortification) at the lake. According to legends, Brahma’s wife Savitri was not present at the Yagna and Brahma married another woman on his impulse. Savitri being displeased by Brahma’s act cursed that Brahma would never be worshipped anywhere else. Due to the reason, this is the only known temple in the world, where Lord Brahma is worshipped.

Legends have it that the Pushkar Lake appeared when a lotus flower fell from the hands of Lord Brahma in this valley. Mythology also states that Lord Brahma killed the demon Vajra Nabha by striking him with His weapon, a lotus flower. The impact of the strike caused the petals to fall in three places. One among the three places was Pushkar where a lake sprung up.

The Brahma Temple stands on a high podium, constructed entirely in marble. The entrance of the temple is ornamented by a red spire and an image of ‘Hans’ (Goose) symbolic of Brahma. A lovely silver carved turtle can be seen sitting with its face towards the sanctum. The black and white chequered tiles floor around the turtle have may silver coins is embellished with many silver coins which are imprinted by the names of the donors. Even, the inner walls of the temple are studded with silver coins.

The main shrine houses the life-size image of Lord Brahma with four hands and four faces sitting in a cross legged position. An image of Goddess Gayatri, who is known as the milk Goddess, can be seen on the left of Lord Brahma and that of Goddess Savitri can be seen on his right side. The temple also comprises of an image of Lord Vishnu, life sized dwarpals (door men) and Garuda pillars (a mythical bird, in gold). The walls of the temple are adorned by beautiful images of Peacock and Goddess Saraswati. From the temple, there is a silver door that leads down to a small cave. This small cave comprises a temple of Lord Shiva.

The temple is swarmed by people in large numbers during the Kartika Purnima in the months of October- November. At this time, the town of Pushkar becomes alive with the joyous Pushkar festival. This is also the time which marks the time during which Brahma performed his Yagna. Pilgrims come to pay their homage and get blessings from the Jagat Pita, Lord Brahma.

 Best time to visit :

The best time to visit Pushkar is in the winter months and especially during October/November when the city is abuzz with activity for the Pushkar Fair.

 Trivia :

Savitri Temple is another famous temple at Pushkar located in the rear of the Brahma Temple. The Savitri Temple overlooking the lake is indeed a treat to the eyes especially during dawn. The exquisite landscape from the Pop Mochani Temple is worth watching.

 Timing:

The temple is open for worship between 6:30 am and 8:30 pm during winter and 6:00 am to 9:00 pm during summer, with an interval in afternoon between 1:30 pm to 3:00 pm when the temple is closed. Three aratis are held in the temple: Sandhya arati in the evening about 40 minutes after sunset, Ratri Shayan arati (night-sleep arati) about 5 hours past sunset and Mangala arati in the morning, about 2 hours before sunrise.

Getting there :

By Air

The nearest airport from Pushkar is Jaipur. Jaipur is well connected to all the major cities which includes Delhi, Mumbai, Calcutta, Jodhpur, Udaipur. Recently, flights to Dubai has also started from Pushkar by Indian Airlines.

By Bus

Pushkar is 11 km from main Ajmer bus stand. Rajasthan Roadways run very comfortable deluxe & air conditioned buses from Jaipur. There are buses from Jaipur to Ajmer every 15 minutes, some nonstop. The roads are very good, and it takes around 2 hrs from Jaipur. You can also come by taxi.

By Train

The nearest railway station for Pushkar is Ajmer, which is on the Broad Gauge and hence connected to all the metro cities of India. There are daily trains from Delhi in morning (Shatabdi Exp) and evening (Intercity Exp).

Gettig Around

Pushkar is a relatively small town and easy enough to get around on foot There are no auto-rickshaw in the town center. A bicycle is best to get around.

Shopping

Pushkar main bazaar is a tangle of narrow lanes lined with an assortments of interesting small shops.

Particularly good buys include silver and beaded jewellery, embroidered fabrics, bed and cushion covers. Rajasthani puppets and fusion music. Its also great place to but books. There's is a excellent range of second hand novels in various language available.

Things to do

Each year, up to 200,000 people flock to Pushkar for the Camel Fair, bringing with them some 50,000 camels and cattle for several days of pilgrimage, horse dealing, camel racing and colorful festivities.

The Rajasthan tourist office has promoted the fair as an international attraction by adding Rajasthan dance programs and other cultural events and by putting up a huge ten city for the Indian and foreign visitor.

Places to See

Temples :

Pushkar boasts temples, through few are as ancient pilgrimage site many were destroyed by Aurangzeb and subsequently rebuilt. The most famous is what is said to be the only temple in India dedicated to Brahma. It's marked by a red spire and over the entrance gateway is the Hans, or goose symbol, of Brahma, who is said to have personally chosen Pushkar as its site. The Rangji Temple chosen is also important.

The one - hour trek up to the hilltop temple overlooking the lake is best made early in the morning; the view is magnificent.

Ghats :

Numerous ghats run down to the lake, and pilgrims are constantly bathing in the lake's holy waters. If you wish to join them, do it with respect - remove your shoes, don't smoke and don't take photographs. This is not Varanasi and the pilgrim here can be very touchy about insensitive instruction by non - Hindus.

GENERAL INFORMATION :

Area :55.76 sq.km.

Altitude :486 meters

Climate :Mean Max. Mean Min.

Summer :38.1degree C 27.7 degree C

Winter :23.3 degree C 05.5 degree C

Rainfall :38 to 51 cm.

Clothing : Summer Light Tropical

Winter: Woolen

Best Season :July-March

Languages :Rajasthani, Hindi, Urdu, English, Sindhi.