Tag: Lord

  • Somvati Amavasya 2024 Date in December: Know Amavasya Tithi, Puja Rituals and Significance of the Auspicious Day Dedicated to Lord Shiva

    Somvati Amavasya 2024 Date in December: Know Amavasya Tithi, Puja Rituals and Significance of the Auspicious Day Dedicated to Lord Shiva

    Somvati Amavasya is an important day in Hindu tradition, occurring when the Amavasya falls on a Monday. This rare alignment is considered highly auspicious. Devotees observe various rituals and practices on this day to seek blessings, cleanse negative karma, and attain spiritual growth. On the day of Somvati Amavasya, married women observe the fast for the long life of their husbands. The last Somvati Amavasya of 2024 falls on Monday, December 30. The Amavasya tithi will begin at 04:01 AM on December 30 and will end at 03:56 AM on December 31. Hindu Festivals Calendar 2025: Know Dates of Holi, Chaitra Navratri, Durga Puja, Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali and Other Major Festivals in India. 

    Amavasya is new moon day in Hindu calendar and is a significant day as many rituals are performed only on Amavasya Tithi. The Amavasya that falls on weekday Monday is known as Somvati Amavasya and Amavasya falling on weekday Saturday is known as Shani Amavasya. In this article, let’s know more about Somvati Amavasya date in December 2024, puja rituals and more. Purnima 2025 Calendar: Know Full Moon Dates, Poornima Significance and Fasting Rituals for the Auspicious Observance. 

    Somvati Amavasya 2024 Date and Amavasya Tithi

    Somvati Amavasya in December 2024 falls on Monday, December 30. The Amavasya tithi will begin at 04:01 AM on December 30 and will end at 03:56 AM on December 31.

    Somvati Amavasya Puja Rituals

    • Devotees should wake up early in the morning on the day of Somvati Amavasya, take a bath and wear clean clothes and offer water to Sun.
    • Somvati Amavasya is particularly beneficial for married women, who pray for the well-being and longevity of their husbands and family.
    • Many observe a strict fast from sunrise to moonrise, consuming only water or fruits.
    • On this day, rituals are performed to honour ancestors, seeking their blessings and peace for their souls.
    • It is said that offering food, water, and clothes to Brahmins and the needy on this day is considered virtuous.
    • Devotees worship Lord Shiva, offering milk, flowers, and bel leaves at Shiva temples.
    • Worshiping Goddess Lakshmi on this day is also considered auspicious. On the day of Somvati Amavasya, married women also worship the Peepal tree.

    Somvati Amavasya Significance

    The day is considered auspicious for meditating and seeking divine blessings for prosperity, peace, and moksha. Offering food, clothes, or money to the poor and Brahmins is an essential part of the day, promoting selflessness and compassion. As per religious beliefs, it is considered auspicious to donate clothes and seven types of grains on Amavasya Tithi for a prosperous life.

    (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 30, 2024 06:00 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

  • Tamil Hanumath Jayanthi 2024 Date and Amavasai Tithi: Know Puja Rituals and Significance of the Auspicious Day Dedicated to Lord Hanuman

    Tamil Hanumath Jayanthi 2024 Date and Amavasai Tithi: Know Puja Rituals and Significance of the Auspicious Day Dedicated to Lord Hanuman

    Tamil Hanumath Jayanthi is an annual festival celebrated in Tamil Nadu to honour Lord Hanuman, the ardent devotee of Lord Rama. Lord Hanuman is a symbol of strength, devotion, and selfless service. While the date of Hanumath Jayanthi varies across regions in India, in Tamil Nadu, it is usually observed during the Margazhi month, which falls in December or January as per the Tamil calendar. Tamil Hanumath Jayanthi 2024 date in December falls on Monday, December 30. On this day, temples dedicated to Lord Hanuman, such as the famous Anjaneyar Temples, are adorned with decorations and host elaborate rituals.

    In Tamil Nadu, Hanumath Jayanthi is observed during Margashirsha Amavasya and most of the time, Margashirsha Amavasya coincides with Moolam Nakshatram. It is believed that God Hanumath was born during Margashirsha Amavasya at the time of Moolam Nakshatram. In years when Moolam Nakshatra does not coincide with Amavasya, Amavasya day is preferred to decide Hanumath Jayanthi day. Hindu Festivals Calendar 2025: Know Dates of Holi, Chaitra Navratri, Durga Puja, Ganesh Chaturthi, Diwali and Other Major Festivals in India. 

    Tamil Hanumath Jayanthi 2024 Date and Timings

    • Tamil Hanumath Jayanthi 2024 falls on Monday, December 30, 2024.
    • The Amavasai Tithi Begins at 04:01 AM on December 30, 2024 and will end at 03:56 AM on December 31, 2024

    Tamil Hanumath Jayanthi Puja Rituals

    • Devotees should wake up early in the morning, take a holy bath and wear clean clothes
    • Clean the home and the area where the puja will be performed.
    • Light a ghee diya in front of the idol of Lord Hanuman idol and seek his blessings and begin by meditating on Lord Hanuman and making a vow to perform the puja with devotion.
    • Devotees should decorate the idol of Lord Hanuman with flowers and offer sweets.
    • On the day of Hanumath Jayanthi, devotees should also visit Lord Hanuman Temple
    • Sindoor is smeared on the idol of Lord Hanuman.

    Tamil Hanumath Jayanthi Significance

    Tamil Hanumath Jayanthi holds great significance for devotees of Lord Hanuman. As per religious beliefs, it is said that Lord Hanuman is always present where people chant the name of Lord Rama. Hence, on this day, devotees recite Ramayana and seek the blessings of Lord Hanuman. In Hanuman Temples, special prayers are offered to Lord Hanuman. Processions of Hanuman idols are conducted in many towns and villages, accompanied by traditional music and dance.

    (The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 30, 2024 06:45 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).

  • Astrologer Reveals Which Form of Lord Ganesh to Bring Home Based on Your Zodiac Sign

    Astrologer Reveals Which Form of Lord Ganesh to Bring Home Based on Your Zodiac Sign

    Ganesh Chaturthi is here and expert reveals which for form of Bappa to bring home according to your individual zodiac sign.

    Type of Lord Ganesh form to bring home as per your zodiac (Freepik)

    Ganesh Chaturthi marks the birth of Lord Ganesha. ‘Vighnaharta,’ ‘Bappa’, the god is venerated by multiple names. It is one of the most holy festivals of Hindus. This year the celebrations of Ganesh Chaturthi shall commence from September 7. There are multiple forms and styles of Lord Ganesh that holds different significant. During Ganesh Chaturthi, several devotees bring idols of Ganesh to their homes. Astrologer reveals  which form of Ganesha may match the energy of each zodiac sign

    Ganesh Chaturthi 2024 Special: Which Form of Bappa to Bring As Per Your Zodiac?

    1. Aries – Vakratunda Ganesha: Aries is always eager to lead; she is dynamic and active. Aries’ brazen character speaks to Vakratunda Ganesha, who is renowned for tenacious overcoming of challenges. This form enables Aries avoid impulsiveness and properly direct their hot energy output. By encouraging strategic thinking and patience, meditating on Vakratunda will enable Aries succeed without rushing.
    2. Taurus – Mahaganapati: Grounded and focused on stability, Taurus speaks to Mahaganapati, the great ruler of abundance. In line with Taurus’s need for comfort and security, Mahaganapati is connected with wealth and financial well-being. By use of this form of Ganesha, Taurus can balance their financial needs with spiritual happiness, therefore fostering inner calm and thanksgiving.
    3. Gemini – Ucchhishta Ganapati: Gemini’s intellectual curiosity and passion of communication fit the lord of creative knowledge, Ucchhishta Ganapati. Gemini is inspired by this kind of Ganesha to venture outside traditional lines and investigate fresh concepts. By means of Ucchhishta Ganapati, Gemini might discover concentrate among their several activities, so improving clarity in communication and intellectual development.
    4. Cancer – Heramba Ganesha: Heramba Ganesha, the kind protector, is the perfect fit since cancer is both protective and encouraging. Heramba, shown with five heads, speaks to Cancer’s compassion by providing strength and protection to people in need. Heramba Ganesha meditation helps Cancer to set emotional limits and support loved ones, therefore promoting both self-care and empathy.
    5. Leo – Simha Ganesha: Leo’s royal and magnetic force fits Simha Ganesha, the lion-headed incarnation of Lord Ganesha. Simha Ganesha, who stands for bravery and leadership, lets Leo excel as a leader while yet keeping humility. By means of meditation on this form, Leo develops his confidence and sense of direction, therefore enabling him to lead with compassion and wisdom rather than ego.
    6. Virgo – Siddhi Vinayaka: Siddhi Vinayaka, the form linked with accomplishment and achievement via dedication, might relate to Virgo’s precise and goal-oriented character. While motivating Virgo to let go of too much perfectionism, Siddhi Vinayaka supports them in following their aspirations. Meditating on this form helps Virgo keep harmony between their spiritual fulfilment and critical thinking.
    7. Libra – Vigneshwara: Libra, always looking for harmony and balance, speaks to Vigneshwara, the remover of challenges. Vigneshwara guides Libra through disputes and into personal balance. Meditating on this form helps Libra to discover inner peace and promote diplomacy and inner tranquilly by means of which harmony in their relationships may be created.
    8. Scorpio – Kshipra Ganapati: Renowned for their intensity and metamorphosis, Scorpio fits Kshipra Ganapati, the fast acting form of Ganesha. Promoting change and rebirth, Kshipra Ganapati helps Scorpio move quickly over emotional and personal obstacles. Meditating on this shape helps one to recover emotionally and to muster the confidence to welcome change.
    9. Sagittarius – Dhumraketu Ganesha: Dhumraketu Ganesha, the form connected with wisdom and transformation, speaks to Sagittarius, the adventurer and knowledge seeker. Dhumraketu motivates Sagittarians to investigate spiritual truths and accept fresh ideas. Meditating on this form promotes development and enables Sagittarius to negotiate the uncertainties of life with understanding and hope.
    10. Capricorn – Dhundhi Ganapati: Capricorn, orderly and aspirational, fits the tenacious search of truth undertaken by Dhundhi Ganapati. Offering knowledge and resilience, Dhundhi Ganapati helps Capricorn to remain focused on their long-term objectives. Meditating on this form helps Capricorn to overcome challenges by means of persistence and will.
    11. Aquarius – Gajaanana Ganesha: Visionary and humanitarian Aquarius connects with the elephant-faced lord of knowledge and creativity, Gajaanana Ganesha. Gajaanana motivates Aquarius to be creative and pursue the common good. While keeping their humanitarian vision, meditating on this form helps Aquarians root their ideals in useful reality.
    12. Pisces – Ekadanta Ganesha: Pisces, with their sensitive and sympathetic nature, fit Ekadanta Ganesha, the one-tusked lord signifying sacrifice and concentration. Ekadanta guides Pisces toward spiritual development by means of creative and sympathetic channeling. Meditating on this shape helps Pisces to achieve harmony between their dreams and reality, therefore promoting inner serenity and compassion.

    Happy Ganesh Chaturthi!

    (With Inputs from expert Sidhharrth S Kumaar)




  • 7 Delicious Homemade Sweets to Savour in The Honour of Lord Bappa

    7 Delicious Homemade Sweets to Savour in The Honour of Lord Bappa

    Whether you’re making prasad or preparing treats for a joyful gathering, these 7 sweets are sure to enhance your Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.

    Ganesh Chaturthi 2024 Recipes: 7 Delicious Homemade Sweets to Savour in The Honour of Lord Ganesha

    Ganesh Chaturthi, a vibrant festival honouring Lord Ganesha, is renowned for delectable homemade sweets that honour Lord Ganesha. This vibrant festival, celebrated with great fervour, is renowned for its variety of traditional and innovative treats. From yummy modaks to new twists on classic recipes, these 7 mouthwatering recipes are made to both celebrate the occasion and satisfy your taste buds. Each recipe offers a unique way to show devotion while adding a delicious touch to your festive spread.

    Photo Gallery: Popular Lord Ganesha temples in India

    Whether you’re making prasad or preparing treats for your guests, these sweets are sure to enhance your celebrations. Have a look!

    1. Healthy Granola Modak- by Chef Rajesh Paramashivan, Head Pastry Chef, Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach

    Ingredients

    • Flax seed – 100gms
    • Sesame seed – 100gms
    • Rolled oats – 100gms
    • Green pumpkin seed – 100gms
    • Melon seed – 100gms
    • Chopped almonds – 80gms
    • Cranberry – 80gms
    • Apricot puree – 100gms
    • Maple syrup – 50ml

    Method

    • On a baking tray roast all the seeds and nuts
    • Boil apricot till soft and puree it
    • Add the dry ingredients in a bowl add the apricot puree and maple syrup
    • Mix it well use a modak mold and press the mixture to form a modak shape
    • Place the modak on the baking tray place in the oven for 30 minn at 80◦c

    2. Coconut Jaggery Baked Yogurt- by Chef Rajesh Paramashivan, Head Pastry Chef, Novotel Mumbai Juhu Beach

    Coconut baked yogurt

    • Hung curd – 250gms
    • Icing sugar – 60gms
    • Jaggery – 100gms
    • Milkmaid – 60gms
    • Fresh cream – 125gms
    • Cardamom powder – 5 gm

    Method

    • Melt Jaggery and add the milkmaid to it
    • Mix all the ingredients together in mixing bowl
    • Whisk the mixture till you get smooth consistency
    • Pour the above mixture in an earthen pot or kulad
    • Bake at 150◦c for 16minn on double bath
    • refrigerate for 2 hours serve chill

    Ingredients

    • sweet pearls (Bondi)
    • gram flour (besan) – 250gms
    • baking soda – pinch
    • water – 90ml
    • saffron strand – 1 gms
    • oil for frying
    • sugar syrup
    • sugar – 200gms
    • water – 100ml
    • cardamom – 2 nos
    • saffron – 1gms
    • rose water – 50ml

    Method

    • Add the sugar water saffron and cardamom in sauce pan
    • Make a thick syrup add rose water for flavoring
    • Add water to gram flour to form smooth batter
    • Add the saffron to the mixture
    • Lastly add baking soda to the mixture and whisk well
    • To make Bondi pass the mixture through the perforated ladle on the hot oil kadai
    • Remove Bondi strain all the oil completely
    • Dip the Bondi in warm sugar syrup rest it for an hour
    • Remove the excess syrup through strainer
    •  Finally, Sweet Bondi is ready to serve

    Assembly
    Serve the coconut-baked yogurt in a kulad with sweet Bondi and chopped nuts as garnish

    3. Almond And Makhana Kheer

    Ingredients

    • Full cream milk 2 cups
    • sugar/sugar substitute 4 tbsp
    • Saffron strands a pinch
    • Green cardamom powder ½ tsp
    • Almond slivers ½ cup
    • Makhana (fox nuts) 1 cup
    • Ghee 2 tbsp

    Method

    • Heat ghee in a heavy-bottomed pan and roast the makhana and almond slivers until they turn golden brown.
    • In a separate heavy-bottomed pan, bring the milk and saffron strands to a boil, stirring continuously to prevent sticking.
    • Add sugar or a sugar substitute to the milk and stir until it dissolves completely.
    • Incorporate the roasted makhana and almond slivers into the milk.
    • Continue cooking until the makhana becomes soft and the milk thickens slightly.
    • Serve the kheer hot or chilled, garnished with additional roasted almond slivers and chopped roasted makhana.

     4. Almond and Custard Apple Rabri

    Ingredients

    • Custard apple pulp 2 gm
    • Double cream (fat) 1 gm
    • Sugar/ Sugar Substitute 30 gm
    • Almonds 30 gm

    Method

    •  Toast the almonds in the oven at 100°C for 1 minute.
    • Grind the toasted almonds into a coarse powder and chop the remaining almonds.
    • Combine custard apple pulp, double cream, and sugar in a bowl. Stir in the ground almonds and mix well.
    • Chill the mixture in the refrigerator and garnish with the chopped almonds before serving.

     5. Almond & Sesame Pinni

    Ingredients​​​​

    • Wheat flour ​​​​2 cup
    • Semolina ​​​​2½ tbsp.
    • Roasted Almond slivers​​​¼ cup
    • Roasted White Sesame powder​​¼ cup​
    • Pure ghee ​​​​¾ cup
    • Gram flour (besan) ​​​1½ tbsp
    • sugar/sugar substitute ​​ 1 cup
    • Water​​​​​½ cup
    • Green cardamom powder ​​½ tsp
    • Roasted white sesame​​​1 tbsp
    • Roasted whole almonds​​​3 tbsp

    Method

    • Heat ghee in a pan, then add semolina and wheat flour. Roast the mixture until it achieves a golden brown color.
    • In a separate pan, heat sugar or a sugar substitute with water over a low flame until a single-thread sugar syrup forms.
    • Combine the syrup with the roasted wheat flour mixture, then stir in the green cardamom powder.
    • Continue cooking until the mixture becomes slightly dry. Mix in the roasted almond flakes and ground white sesame seeds until well combined.
    • Allow the mixture to cool. Divide it into equal portions and shape each into round balls.
    •  Place a half of a roasted almond on each pinni and gently roll them in the roasted white sesame seeds.

    6. Almond and Amaranth Ladoos

    Ingredients

    • Popped amaranth seeds – 50 g
    • Jaggery melted – 50 ml
    • Almond slivers (unpeeled) – 30 g
    • Method:
      Place popped amaranth seeds, almond slivers, and melted jaggery into a bowl.
    • Stir the ingredients together until well combined.
    •  Form the mixture into small, firm balls.

    7. SMOOR’s Pista Cranberry Barfi Recipe

    Indulge in the luxurious fusion of pistachios and cranberries wrapped in rich white chocolate with this festive Pista Cranberry Barfi.

    Ingredients

    • Pistachios: 100g
    • White Chocolate: 400g
    • Cranberry Slices: 50g
    • Silver Leaf: For garnish

    Process

    • Blend pistachios into a paste.
    • Mix with tempered white chocolate.
    • Layer cranberry slices in a barfi mold, pour pistachio chocolate mixture, and top with more chopped cranberry.
    • Refrigerate for 15 minutes until set.
    • Demould, garnish with silver leaf, and serve at room temperature.