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What’s a Desi?
The term “desi” is a term that is commonly used by people from the Indian subcontinent to refer to themselves or other people (origin or ancestry) from the region.
The word “Desi” is derived from the Sanskrit word “desh,” which means “country” or “region” or “homeland”. (‘Sanskrit’ word ‘Desh’? What is Sanskrit?)
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Desi people can come from countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and Maldives. The term can also be used to describe aspects of Indian origin culture, including food, clothing, music, and art.
Om or Aum?
Summary
“Om” or “Aum” is a sacred sound with deep spiritual and cultural significance in Indian traditions. It represents the ultimate reality or divine essence. Chanting or saying “Om” is believed to facilitate spiritual growth, self-realization, and connection with the divine.
The benefits of chanting “Om” include relaxation, stress reduction, improved focus, and a sense of harmony and balance. It can promote a calming effect, enhance concentration, and deepen the mind-body connection. Chanting “Om” is considered a powerful tool for meditation, promoting mindfulness, and experiencing inner peace.
Scientific research on chanting “Om” is limited, but studies on meditation practices suggest potential benefits such as increased attention, improved brain function, and enhanced autonomic nervous system activity.
Chanting “Om” is a personal and subjective experience, and its effects may vary from individual to individual. It is recommended to approach chanting with reverence, practice with intention, and observe its effects on your own spiritual and well-being journey.
What is Om or Aum?
Om is a sacred sound and symbol that is important in various Indian traditions. It is considered the primordial sound of the universe, representing the ultimate reality, consciousness, and the essence of existence.
The sound of Om is believed to encompass the three fundamental aspects of existence: creation, preservation, and dissolution.
- The elongated “A” sound represents creation, the waking state of consciousness, and the beginning of all things and the initial manifestation of energy.
- The resonating “U” sound represents preservation, the dreaming state of consciousness, harmony, balance, and the continuity of energy.
- The subtle humming of “M” represents dissolution, the deep sleep state of consciousness, the merging of individual with the cosmic divine and the completion of the cosmic cycle.
Together, the three sounds, A, U, and M, merge to form Om, representing the entire spectrum of existence. Chanting or meditating on Om is believed to help connect with the divine, harmonize the mind and body, and awaken spiritual consciousness.
Om is a powerful mantra, a tool for meditation, and a symbol of unity with the divine and the nature of interconnection between all things. It is also widely used in spiritual practices, rituals, and chants in various cultures and traditions across the world.
Why is it important?
Om is an important sound and symbol to Indians because it has deep spiritual and philosophical significance in their culture and traditions.
- Spiritual significance: Om is considered a sacred and divine sound that represents the ultimate reality, or the divine essence. It is seen as a pathway to connect with the divine and attain spiritual enlightenment. Chanting or meditating on Om is believed to help facilitate spiritual growth, self-realization, and a deeper understanding of the nature of existence.
- Cultural heritage: Om is deeply rooted in Indian culture and has been revered for thousands of years. It is found in ancient scriptures like the Vedas and Upanishads, which form the basis of Indian philosophy and spirituality. As a result, Om has become a symbol of Indian identity, cultural heritage, and religious practices.
- Symbol of unity: Om represents the underlying unity of all things. It signifies the interconnected-ness of individuals, the universe, and the divine. Chanting Om is a way to acknowledge and honor this unity, promoting a sense of oneness and harmony among people.
- Meditative practice: The rhythmic chanting of Om has a calming and centering effect on the mind. It helps in achieving a state of deep relaxation, focus, and inner peace. Chanting Om during meditation is believed to enhance concentration, reduce stress, and promote overall well-being.
- Philosophical insights: Om is associated with profound philosophical concepts in Indian philosophy, such as the nature of reality, the eternal sound, and the unmanifested potential. It encapsulates the ideas of existence, consciousness, and bliss. Exploring the meaning and symbolism of Om provides philosophical insights and contemplative pathways for individuals on their spiritual journey.
Om is important to Indians because it represents their spiritual heritage, cultural identity, and provides a profound framework for understanding the nature of reality and the pursuit of spiritual growth and self-realization.
Where or when is it used?
Om is a sacred sound that is used in many spiritual practices, rituals, and prayers in different cultures and traditions. It is believed to have many benefits, including:
- Helping people to connect with their spiritual nature
- Cultivating inner awareness
- Deepening spiritual practices
- Serving as a focal point for devotion, mindfulness, and spiritual transformation
Here are some ways in which Om is used:
- Chanting and meditation: Om is often chanted or repeated silently as part of meditation and mantra repetition. It is believed to help people to deepen their concentration, experience inner peace, and connect with the divine.
- Prayers and invocations: Om is often used as a sacred invocation or opening mantra in prayers and rituals. It sets the spiritual tone and creates a sacred atmosphere for connecting with the divine, seeking blessings, and expressing devotion.
- Yoga and breath-work: Om is frequently incorporated as part of pranayama (breath control) exercises in yoga practices. It is chanted during specific breathing techniques, such as “Om Chanting” or “Ujjayi Breathing,” to enhance focus, energize the body, and deepen the breath-awareness connection.
- Religious ceremonies: Om holds a central place in religious ceremonies, such as pujas (ritual worship), yajnas (fire rituals), and sacred initiations. It is chanted by priests, devotees, or participants to invoke divine blessings, offer gratitude, and create a sacred atmosphere.
- Symbolic representation: The symbol of Om (ॐ) is often used as a visual representation in religious art, mandalas, and sacred objects. It serves as a reminder of the divine presence, cosmic unity, and the essence of spiritual teachings.
Whether chanted aloud or silently repeated, Om is considered a powerful and sacred sound that can help people to connect with their spiritual nature, cultivate inner awareness, and deepen their spiritual practices.
What are the benefits of chanting Om?
Chanting Om can have many benefits, including:
- Relaxation and stress reduction: Chanting Om can help you relax and reduce stress. The repetitive sound can help you focus on the present moment and let go of worries.
- Improved concentration and focus: Chanting Om can help you improve your concentration and focus. The repetitive sound can help you block out distractions and stay on task.
- Increased harmony and balance: Chanting Om can help you feel more balanced and at peace. The sound vibrations can help to promote overall well-being.
- Deeper mind-body connection: Chanting Om can help you connect with your body and mind on a deeper level. The sound vibrations can help you become more aware of your breath, sensations, and emotions.
- Spiritual awakening: Chanting Om can be a powerful tool for spiritual awakening. The sound vibrations can help you connect with your inner wisdom and higher self.
It is important to note that the benefits of chanting Om may vary from person to person. Some people may experience all of the benefits listed above, while others may only experience some of them. It is also important to note that chanting Om is a personal practice. There is no right or wrong way to do it. Experiment with different techniques and find what works best for you.
How do you say Om or Aum?
To say “Om” or “Aum”, follow these steps:
- Find a comfortable and quiet space where you can focus without distractions.
- Sit in a comfortable position, with your spine straight and relaxed.
- Take a few deep breaths to center yourself and calm your mind.
- Begin by exhaling completely and emptying your lungs.
- As you inhale, open your mouth slightly and let the sound “Aaaah” naturally flow out. Feel the vibration starting from the lower belly or abdomen, rising up through your chest.
- Transition smoothly to the sound “Ooooh” as you continue to exhale. The sound should resonate in your chest, throat and mouth.
- Finally, close your lips and make the humming sound “Mmmm” as you fully exhale. Feel the vibration buzzing in your head and throat.
- Allow the sound to naturally taper off and merge into silence.
- Repeat the process, focusing on the smooth transition between the three sounds, “Aaaah,” “Ooooh,” and “Mmmm.”
- As you chant, try to feel the resonance and vibration of the sound throughout your body.
Remember, the key is to chant “Om” with a sense of deep focus, intention, and awareness. The sound should be produced naturally and comfortably, without straining or forcing it. Practice gradually and allow yourself to find a rhythm and pace that feels right for you.
It’s important to approach chanting “Om” with reverence and sincerity, as it is a sacred sound with spiritual significance. Allow yourself to fully immerse in the experience and let the vibrations of “Om” resonate within you.
Are there any studies about the benefits?
While there is limited scientific research specifically focused on the benefits of chanting “Om” or “Aum,” there are a few studies that have explored the effects of chanting and meditation practices in general.
Here are a couple of studies that touch upon the potential benefits:
- “Effects of Om Chanting on Brain Function, Autonomic Nervous System, and Hormones” (by Venkatesh et al., 2017): This study examined the effects of chanting “Om” on brain function, autonomic nervous system activity, and hormone levels. The researchers found that Om chanting led to increased parasympathetic nervous system activity, reduced sympathetic nervous system activity, and improved attention and concentration. It suggested that Om chanting may have a positive impact on mental and physical well-being.
- “The Effects of Om Mantra Meditation on Brain Hemispheric Coherence and Autonomic Nervous System” (by Joshi et al., 2013): This study investigated the effects of Om mantra meditation on brain hemispheric coherence and autonomic nervous system functioning. The results showed increased hemispheric coherence, indicating better communication between the brain hemispheres, and improved autonomic nervous system balance. These findings suggest potential benefits of Om mantra meditation in promoting brain integration and balance.
- A study published in the journal “Applied Psychophysiology and Biofeedback” in 2007 found that chanting Om can help to reduce stress. The study participants who chanted Om for 15 minutes showed a significant decrease in stress hormones, such as cortisol, compared to the control group.
- A study published in the journal “Neuroscience Letters” in 2008 found that chanting Om can help to improve focus. The study participants who chanted Om for 15 minutes showed an increase in alpha waves in the brain, which are associated with relaxation and concentration.
- “Immediate Effects of OM Chanting on Heart Rate Variability Measures Compared Between Experienced and Inexperienced Yoga Practitioners”, published in the journal “Scientific Reports” in 2019. This study found that chanting Om can help to improve heart rate variability, which is a measure of the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems.
- “Neurohemodynamic correlates of ‘OM’ chanting: A pilot functional magnetic resonance imaging study”, published in the journal “Frontiers in Human Neuroscience” in 2013. This study found that chanting Om can activate certain areas of the brain, including the limbic system, which is involved in emotion and memory.
- “Meditation on OM: Relevance from ancient texts and contemporary science”, published in the journal “Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences” in 2008. This study discusses the benefits of chanting Om from a scientific and spiritual perspective.
While these studies provide some insight into the effects of chanting and meditation practices, it’s important to note that the research in this area is still developing, and more studies are needed to establish conclusive evidence regarding the specific benefits of chanting “Om” or “Aum.”
It’s also worth mentioning that the benefits of chanting “Om” are often subjective and can vary from person to person. Many individuals report personal experiences of improved focus, relaxation, and spiritual connection through the practice of chanting “Om.” Ultimately, the best way to explore the effects of chanting is through personal practice and self-observation.
Images:
Top: Photo by Shubham Dhage on Unsplash
Middle: Photo by ArrN Capture on Unsplash
What are Yoga and Meditation?
What is Yoga?
Yoga is an ancient spiritual practice that originated in India over 5,000 years ago. The word “yoga” comes from the Sanskrit word “yuj,” which means to yoke or unite, and it is often translated as “union” or “harmony.”
The earliest mention of yoga can be found in the ancient Indian texts known as the Vedas, which were written between 1500 BCE and 500 BCE. These texts include references to various practices that are associated with yoga, such as meditation, breath control, and the chanting of mantras.
The most famous and influential text on yoga is the Yoga Sutras, which was written by the Indian sage Patanjali in the second century BCE.
The Yoga Sutras is a collection of aphorisms that describe the principles and practices of yoga, including the eight limbs of yoga, which are:
- yama (moral codes),
- niyama (self-purification and study),
- asana (postures),
- pranayama (breath control),
- pratyahara (withdrawal of the senses),
- dharana (concentration),
- dhyana (meditation), and
- samadhi (absorption).
Over the centuries, many other texts have been written on yoga, including the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, which was written in the 15th century and describes the physical practices of yoga, such as asanas (postures) and pranayama (breath control), as well as the Yoga Upanishads, which are a collection of texts that describe various aspects of yoga philosophy and practice.
In addition to the textual evidence, there are also many archeological and artistic depictions of yoga poses and practices throughout India’s history.
Today, yoga has become a popular form of exercise and spiritual practice around the world, and there are many different styles and approaches to yoga that draw on the ancient traditions of India.
Who are yogis?
Yogis are practitioners of yoga, and are often seen as spiritual seekers or ascetics who have dedicated their lives to the practice of yoga and meditation. In traditional Indian culture, yogis were highly respected for their spiritual insights and wisdom.
Who were the first yogis?
According to Indian teachings and yogic traditions, Adi Yogi, also known as Lord Shiva, is considered the first yogi and the originator of yoga.
According to the legend, Shiva is said to have shared the knowledge of yoga with his seven disciples, known as the Saptarishis (who were the designated survivors of the last Flood) , in the forests of the Himalayas.
These teachings were eventually passed down through the generations and became the basis for many different yoga practices and traditions.
The title of Adi Yogi is given to Shiva because he is believed to have not only practiced yoga, but also to have created and refined it to be used as a tool for spiritual growth and enlightenment. He is also considered the lord of yogis and the ultimate source of yogic knowledge.
In modern times, there are many different interpretations of the story of Adi Yogi and Shiva’s role in the development of yoga, but his legacy is still widely celebrated and revered by many practitioners of yoga and spirituality.
What are different practices used in yoga?
There are many different yogic practices, both well-known and lesser-known. Some of the most well-known yogic practices include:
- Asanas (postures): These physical postures are designed to stretch and strengthen the body, and prepare the mind for meditation.
- Pranayama (breath control): This practice involves regulating the breath, and can be used to calm the mind and increase energy levels.
- Meditation: There are many different types of meditation, including mindfulness meditation, mantra meditation, and visualization meditation, among others.
- Mudras (hand gestures): These hand gestures are used to direct the flow of energy in the body, and can be used to enhance the benefits of yoga and meditation.
Other lesser-known yogic practices include kriyas (purification techniques), bandhas (energetic locks), and shatkarmas (cleansing practices).
How did Yoga evolve into it’s present form?
The evolution and divergence of yogic practices can be attributed to a variety of factors, including the influence of different teachers and traditions, as well as the social, cultural, and political contexts in which the practices were developed.
Over time, different schools of yoga emerged, each with their own unique approach and philosophy. Today, there are many different styles of yoga, each with its own emphasis and focus.
In recent decades, yoga has become increasingly popular in the Western world, with millions of people practicing it as a form of exercise, stress relief, and overall wellness. This increased popularity has led to the development of new styles of yoga and the creation of many yoga studios and classes around the world.
Yoga was not the only traditional physical activity or practice which originated in India, was it? Are there others?
What are different styles or schools of yoga?
Some of the most well-known schools of yoga include:
- Hatha Yoga: This is one of the most popular styles of yoga in the West, and is characterized by a focus on physical postures (asanas) and breath control (pranayama). Hatha yoga is often used as a general term to refer to any style of yoga that emphasizes physical practice.
- Ashtanga Yoga: This style of yoga, also known as “power yoga,” is a physically demanding practice that involves a specific sequence of postures performed in a continuous flow, synchronized with the breath.
- Iyengar Yoga: This style of yoga is characterized by a focus on alignment and precision in the postures, and often uses props (such as blocks and straps) to help students achieve proper alignment.
- Kundalini Yoga: This style of yoga emphasizes the awakening of the “kundalini energy,” or life force, through a combination of physical postures, breathwork, and meditation.
- Bikram Yoga: This style of yoga involves a specific sequence of 26 postures performed in a heated room, and is often marketed as a form of detoxification and stress reduction.
- Jivamukti Yoga: This style of yoga is characterized by a focus on spirituality and activism, and often incorporates music, chanting, and meditation into the practice.
Each of these schools or styles of yoga has its own unique history, philosophy, and approach to practice. While some schools may have specific founders or gurus associated with them, others may have developed more organically over time.
Yoga was not the only traditional physical activity or practice which originated in India, was it? Are there others?
Yes, of course. Check these out!
How are yoga and meditation connected?
Yoga and meditation are closely connected, as meditation is a key component of the practice of yoga. In fact, the practice of yoga asanas, or postures, is often used as a preparation for meditation, as it helps to calm the mind and release tension in the body.
Yoga is an ancient Indian holistic practice that encompasses physical postures, breath control, meditation, and philosophical principles. The practice of yoga is aimed at achieving a state of balance and harmony in the body, mind, and spirit.
Meditation, on the other hand, is a specific practice of focusing the mind and cultivating a state of calm and awareness. There are many different forms of meditation, including mindfulness meditation, mantra meditation, and visualization meditation.
In the context of yoga, meditation is often used as a way to deepen one’s awareness of the body and mind, and to connect with the inner self. By practicing meditation regularly, yoga practitioners can cultivate a sense of inner peace and stillness, and gain insights into the nature of reality and the self.
While yoga and meditation are closely connected, they do have some differences. Yoga is a more physical practice that involves movement and asanas, while meditation is a more mental practice that involves sitting still and focusing the mind. Additionally, while yoga is often practiced in a group setting or in a studio, meditation can be practiced anywhere and at any time, making it more accessible and convenient for many people.
Some commonly known types of meditation
There are many different types of meditation that originated in India, including:
- Vipassana Meditation: This is a Buddhist meditation technique that involves observing the sensations of the body in order to develop insight into the nature of reality.
- Transcendental Meditation: This technique involves the use of a mantra, or a repeated word or phrase, in order to quiet the mind and achieve a state of relaxation and inner peace.
- Yoga Meditation: This type of meditation is often practiced in conjunction with yoga postures and breathing exercises, and involves focusing the mind on the breath or a particular point of concentration in order to quiet the mind and achieve a state of inner peace.
- Mindfulness Meditation: This technique involves bringing one’s attention to the present moment and observing one’s thoughts and emotions without judgment, in order to develop greater self-awareness and mental clarity.
There is no one “best” meditation technique that is popular in India, as different techniques may be more suitable for different individuals based on their personality, lifestyle, and goals. However, Vipassana and Transcendental Meditation are two of the most popular techniques practiced in India and around the world.
Major Schools of Meditation
Here are some more of the major schools or types of meditation, along with a brief description of each and some links to learn more:
Self-Realization Fellowship Meditation: Self-Realization Fellowship was founded by Paramahansa Yogananda in 1920. The organization teaches a system of meditation and spiritual practice that is based on the teachings of the ancient science of Kriya Yoga. The practice involves techniques for controlling the breath and the mind, and for cultivating inner peace and spiritual awareness. Self-Realization Fellowship emphasizes the importance of a balanced approach to life that includes physical health, mental clarity, and spiritual development.
Transcendental Meditation (TM) – Developed by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, TM involves the use of a mantra and a particular technique for attaining deep states of relaxation and self-awareness. It is meant to be practiced twice daily for 20 minutes each time. The organization that teaches TM is called the Global Country of World Peace, and their website is tm.org.
Kundalini Yoga and Meditation – Kundalini yoga is a form of yoga that incorporates physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation techniques. The aim is to awaken the Kundalini energy that is said to reside at the base of the spine and move it upwards through the chakras. Kundalini meditation can involve chanting, visualization, and other techniques meant to help practitioners access higher states of consciousness. The website 3HO.org is a good resource for learning more about Kundalini yoga and meditation.
Art of Living – Founded by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Art of Living is an organization that teaches a variety of meditation and yoga practices aimed at promoting inner peace and well-being. Their practices often incorporate breathing exercises, chanting, and other techniques meant to reduce stress and increase vitality. The Art of Living website is a good resource for learning more about their practices.
Isha Yoga – Founded by Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev, Isha Yoga is a spiritual organization that teaches a variety of yoga and meditation practices aimed at promoting inner transformation and well-being. Their practices often incorporate breathing exercises, physical postures, and meditation techniques meant to help practitioners access higher states of consciousness. The Isha Foundation website is a good resource for learning more about their practices.
Zen Meditation: Zen is a school of Mahayana Buddhism that emphasizes the practice of meditation to achieve enlightenment. Zen meditation, also known as Zazen, involves sitting in a particular posture and focusing on the breath. It also involves working with a teacher, studying Zen texts, and participating in retreats. Zen meditation emphasizes direct experience and does not rely on words or concepts. Zen meditation is often practiced in a group setting in a Zen center or monastery.
What is Mindfulness Meditation? It seems different in the class I took.
The Indian type of meditation that is considered the basis for mindfulness meditation used now everywhere is Vipassana meditation. Vipassana is a Pali word that means “insight” or “clear seeing”. It is a meditation technique that originated in India over 2,500 years ago and was taught by the Buddha himself.
Vipassana meditation involves observing the sensations of the body in order to develop insight into the nature of reality.
Mindfulness meditation, which is now used in many therapeutic settings and is a popular form of meditation practiced in the West, is based on the principles of Vipassana meditation.
It involves paying attention to the present moment without judgment, and cultivating an attitude of acceptance, kindness, and curiosity towards one’s experience.
This approach can help individuals to develop greater self-awareness, manage stress and anxiety, and improve their overall well-being.
Meenakshi Temple
The Meenakshi Temple is one of the most significant and revered temples in Tamil Nadu, India.
Top Image Credit எஸ்ஸார், CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Where is the Meenakshi Amman Temple?
The Meenakshi Amman (Amman – Mother) It is located in the city of Madurai, and is dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi, an incarnation of Parvati, and her consort Lord Sundareswarar, who is an incarnation of Lord Shiva. The temple is also known as the Meenakshi-Sundareswarar Temple, and is considered one of the finest examples of Tamilian architecture.
Madurai, the city where the temple is located, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history dating back to the 3rd century BCE.
The Meenakshi Temple was built in the 17th century by the Nayak dynasty, who ruled over Madurai at that time. The temple complex covers an area of about 15 acres and is made up of four main entrances or gopurams, which are adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. The main gopuram is over 50 meters tall, making it one of the tallest temple towers in India.
The main deity of the Meenakshi Temple is Goddess Meenakshi, who is considered the presiding deity of Madurai. She is depicted with four arms, holding a lotus, a parrot, a bow, and a scepter. Lord Sundareswarar, her consort, is depicted with one arm holding a trident and the other in a gesture of blessing.
The Meenakshi Temple is renowned for its Tamilian architectural style, characterized by towering gopurams, intricate carvings, and colorful paintings.
The temple’s pillars, ceilings, and walls are adorned with elaborate sculptures depicting scenes from Hindu mythology and daily life. The temple is also famous for its golden lotus tank, which is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva performed his cosmic dance.
Special Features in the temple
Gopurams
A gopuram is a monumental tower, usually ornately decorated, that is a prominent feature of the entrances to many Hindu temples in South India. These towers are typically made of stone or brick, and rise to several stories, with each story featuring intricate carvings and sculptures depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.
In South Indian temple architecture, the gopuram is an essential element and serves as the gateway to the temple’s inner sanctum. It is believed that the gopuram acts as a symbolic boundary between the physical world and the spiritual realm, and that crossing the threshold of the gopuram is equivalent to entering a sacred space.
The Meenakshi Temple in Madurai, Tamil Nadu has 14 gopurams or towers, with the four tallest ones located at the entrances on the four cardinal directions. Each of these gopurams has a unique name and significance, which are as follows:
East Gopuram
This is the main entrance to the temple and is known as the “Indra Vimanam” as it is believed to be the abode of the Hindu god Indra.
South Gopuram
This entrance is known as the “Sundara Pandya Vimanam” named after the Pandya king who is said to have built the gopuram.
West Gopuram
This entrance is called the “Velli Vayil Vimanam” which means “Silver Courtyard Tower.” It is said to have been covered in silver plates in ancient times.
North Gopuram
This entrance is known as the “Kadaka Vimanam” named after the sage Kadamba who is believed to have built it.
The remaining 10 gopurams are smaller and are located within the temple complex. Each of these gopurams also has a unique name and significance, which are as follows:
Ashta Shakthi Mandapam Gopuram
This gopuram leads to the Ashta Shakthi Mandapam, which is a hall dedicated to the goddess Meenakshi’s eight forms.
Kilikoondu Mandapam Gopuram
This gopuram leads to the Kilikoondu Mandapam, which is a hall where the temple elephant is housed.
Ashta Bhuja Gopuram
This gopuram leads to a shrine dedicated to the eight-armed goddess Durga.
Sundareswarar Shrine Gopuram
This gopuram leads to the shrine of the temple’s presiding deity, Lord Sundareswarar.
Meenakshi Nayakkar Mandapam Gopuram
This gopuram leads to a hall used for religious and cultural performances.
Pudu Mandapam Gopuram
This gopuram leads to a hall used for temple processions.
Vasantha Mandapam Gopuram
This gopuram leads to a hall that is used during the spring festival of Vasanthotsavam.
Oonjal Mandapam Gopuram
This gopuram leads to a hall where the deities are placed on swings during festivals.
Kilikoondu Mandapam Vayil Gopuram
This gopuram leads to the courtyard where the temple elephant is bathed.
Shenbaga Vimanam Gopuram
This gopuram leads to a shrine dedicated to the god Vishnu.
Mandapas
Mandapas, are pillared halls or pavilions found in Hindu temples. These halls are used for religious and cultural events such as music, dance, and recitals, and also serve as spaces for devotees to gather and meditate.
The Meenakshi Temple in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, has several mantapas within its complex, each with its own unique name and significance. Some of the mantapas in the temple are:
Ashta Shakthi Mandapam
This is a hall dedicated to the eight forms of the goddess Meenakshi, and is located in the eastern part of the temple complex. It is also known as the “Hall of Eight Shakthis” and is used for various cultural and religious events.
Kilikoondu Mandapam
This is a pillared hall located near the temple tank, and is used for storing the temple chariots and the temple elephant.
Meenakshi Nayakar Mandapam
This is a hall located on the northern side of the temple complex and is used for various events such as music concerts and dance performances.
Oonjal Mandapam
This is a pavilion located in the southwest corner of the temple complex and is used during temple festivals. It is also called the “Swing Pavilion” and is where the deities are placed on swings.
Pudu Mandapam
This is a hall located near the eastern entrance of the temple, and is used for various events during temple festivals.
Vasantha Mandapam
This is a hall located on the northern side of the temple complex, and is used during the spring festival of Vasanthotsavam.
Raja Gopuram Mandapam
This is a hall located in the tallest gopuram of the temple, and is used for various events during temple festivals.
Interesting facts about the Meenakshi Temple and the surrounding area include:
- The temple has 14 gopurams, with the tallest one being the southern tower, which is 170 feet tall.
- The temple complex has several shrines and halls, including the 1000-pillar hall, which is renowned for its intricate carvings and sculptures.
- The temple is a popular pilgrimage site, with thousands of devotees visiting every day.
- The temple also hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Meenakshi Thirukalyanam, which celebrates the marriage of Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar.
- Madurai, the city where the temple is located, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history dating back to the 3rd century BCE.
- The city has been an important center of trade and culture for centuries and is known for its rich heritage, including its music, dance, and cuisine.
- Madurai is also known for its street food, including the famous Madurai Jigarthanda, a refreshing drink made with milk, almond gum, and nannari syrup, and the delicious Madurai idli, which is softer and fluffier than the typical South Indian idli.
- Madurai is also home to several other important temples, including the Koodal Azhagar Temple, the Pazhamudhir Solai Temple, and the Thiruparankundram Murugan Temple, all of which are worth visiting.
The term Desi can refer to people of Indian subcontinent origin or ancestry, or it can refer to the cultural practices and products of the region.
Desi food, will include dishes such as biryani, Pongal, samosas, Dosa, Idli, Parantha, Chawal and dal, while Desi fashion may feature traditional clothing styles like sarees, salwar kameez, Dhoti, and kurta pajama.
Desi music may include traditional folk music (dozens of styles), classical music (also several distinct schools), traditional dance (several traditional and ancient styles) and popular movie or music genres like Bollywood, Tollywood, Kollywood, Mollywood (all different regional language film industry names – a play on the word Hollywood).
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