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Showing posts from December, 2024

The Shrine of Sultan Sahib (Sultan Darvesh) at Hakura Badasgam, Anantnag

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A 20th century Sufi known as Sheikh Muhammad Sultan used to live in a small village in Anantnag, the Kashmir valley called Hakura Badasgam. He has achieved miraculous status throughout the Kashmir area as well as outside of it as one of its prophets. Baba Sultan is classified as a Qalandar (one of 4 categories of Sufis). The Qalandars lived their lives wholly devoted to God by following Him alone and not following social customs (that is, the accepted rules of society) as a matter of course, except where doing so might violate the Shari'ah (that is, the universal law of God). (The differences in behaviour, dress, and objects carried by Qalandars has been used as an excuse to consider Qalandars to be separate from others.) There exists a considerable amount of literature concerning Qalandars in languages other than English such as Urdu (the principal native language of Pakistan), Persian (the principal native language of Iran), and Arabic (the principal native language of Saudi Arab...
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Unveiling the Historical Bahu Fort Temple

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Jammu, often called the "City of Temples," is famous for its rich spiritual heritage, featuring numerous ancient temples that showcase its deep-rooted religious and cultural traditions. Situated in the foothills of the Himalayas, this city serves as a major pilgrimage destination in northern India, drawing visitors from across the country. Jammu boasts countless temples, from ancient shrines to modern structures, each with its own unique historical and spiritual significance. One notable temple is the Bahu Fort Temple, also known locally as "Bawe wali Mata." The Bahu Fort Temple in Jammu stands out as a significant spiritual and historical site in the area. Nestled within the Bahu Fort, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali, who is affectionately referred to as Bawe Wali Mata by the locals. It is one of the oldest forts and temples in Jammu, built by Raja Bahulochan over 3,000 years ago, with later renovations carried out by the Dogra rulers. History of Bahu Fort...
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Neeltop:- An Unexplored Tourist Destination

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Background of Neel:  Neel is a quaint little town in the Tehsil Banihal district of Ramban, surrounded by towering mountains, green valleys, and meadows. This pristine land is relatively unknown. Banihal Tehsil, one of the six tehsils in the Ramban district in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, is quickly catching the attention of the tourists. The incredible topography of the region around Banihal is giving an edge for adventure tourism and herbal tourism in this Pir Panchal town since this town is rich in many herbs and shrubs medicinally beneficial. Many hidden beauties do attract huge picnics from various places of Jammu and Kashmir and beyond, motivated by its splendid beauty and amiable climate during the scorching summer months. This place also serves as the gateway to Kashmir, with domestic and international tourists driving through this lovely town that is commonly marked-a natural beauty of pleasing weather and striking geographical features to be appreciated....
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Swami Mast Bab: A Great Spiritual Saint From Kashmir

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Swami Mast Bab: A Great Spiritual Saint From Kashmir  Swami Mast Bab (also known as Mast Baba) was a highly respected Kashmiri saint and mystic, celebrated for his profound spiritual insights and unwavering devotion to God. He was a beloved figure in Kashmir, transcending religious divides and attracting followers from various faiths. Swami Mast Bab's life exemplified simplicity, humility, and a detachment from material desires. He devoted himself fully to spiritual practices and selfless service, highlighting the unity of all beings and the oneness of God. His teachings embodied the rich spiritual legacy of Kashmir, incorporating elements of Shaivism, Sufism, and universal love. Swami Mast Ram Jee was born in 1931 in Budlada, Punjab, into a prosperous peasant family. His birth name was Sohan Lal. From a young age, Swami Jee was deeply contemplative about life and its worldly matters, often dedicating his time to chanting the name of the Lord. It seems that a sense of spirituality ...
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A Beginner's Guide to Understanding Cryptocurrency

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A Beginner's Guide to Understanding Cryptocurrency Introduction to Cryptocurrency:-  In the last ten years, cryptocurrency has evolved from a niche technological innovation into a significant global financial trend. With Bitcoin at the forefront, numerous other digital currencies have surfaced, each offering distinct advantages and applications. This guide breaks down the fundamentals of cryptocurrency, helping you grasp what it is, how it functions, and why it is important. What is Cryptocurrency? Cryptocurrency refers to a type of digital or virtual currency that is secured through cryptography, making it extremely difficult to counterfeit or double-spend. Unlike conventional currencies, cryptocurrencies function on decentralized networks that utilize blockchain technology—a distributed ledger maintained by a network of computers. Key Features of Cryptocurrency:-  1. Decentralization: Cryptocurrency operates without a central authority, such as a government or bank. 2. Secur...
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Tulmulla - An Abode of Mata Kheer Bhawani

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  Tulmulla - An Abode of Mata Kheer Bhawani Tulmulla is rightly an abode or dwelling place of Mata Kheer Bhawani and the feminine power resides in this picturesque village. The legend is it, that Mata Ragnya Bhagwati which Kheer Bhawani is also called was pleased on the penance of Ravana the then king of Shri Lanka and he took her to Lanka. But she was dismayed by the demonic works of Ravana and told Hanuman to lift her to Kashmir, where she permanently resides at village Tulmul. Kheer Bhawani, Ksheer Bhawani or Ragnya Devi shrine is a Hindu temple situated at a distance of 25 Kms north-east of Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir’s Tulmulla village in Ganderbal district. It is dedicated to Hindu goddess Kheer Bhawani whose temple stands in the middle of a scared spring and it is believed that the color of this spring changes and generally it is milky, but it turns red when some big misfortune falls and thus it has been seen that on the onset of militancy in Kashmir and the resultant exod...
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Verinag Spring:- A Gem in the heart of Kashmir

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Verinag Spring:- A Gem in the heart of Kashmir   The spring of Verinag is the reputed source of the River Vitasta. In Hindu times it was known as Nila Naga and was sacred to the snake deity of that name. Nilmata Purana tells us when Parvati had obtained the consent of consort Siva to incarnate in Kashmir as the River Vitasta in order to purify the country which had been defiled by the touch of Pisachas who appeared to have been some outlandish barbarians, he struck the earth at the site of the spring with his trident and thus cleared the way for the issue of waters of the Parvati-Vitasta from the nether world. Hence, the Tirtha also bore the alternate name of Sulaghata, “Trident Stroke”. It seems to have retained considerable importance among Hindu places of pilgrimage even as late as Akbar’s time of Abul Fazal who mentions the existence of a number of stone temples in the east. At this time it had already taken its present name of Verinag borrowing it probably from the district ‘V...
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Christmas: The Birth Day of Jesus Christ

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  Christmas:- The Birth Day of Jesus Christ                                                                                        The most significant holiday for the Christian world is the birth day of Jesus Christ and it is celebrated across the world with great pomp and show not only by the people of Christian faith but by the non-Christians as well. Even being a traditional Christian holiday ,Christmas is widely celebrated worldwide ,including in non-Christian countries .Some traditions of the season celebration are so old that goes up to pre-Christian era or secular origins .Nowadays ,the most common is the exchange of gifts and cards with beloved ones. Christmas dinner, Christmas carols and other celebrations alongside local traditions ,bringing together each...
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Nand Bab 'Mastana':- The Mystic, Divine and Spiritual Saint of Kashmir

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Nand Bab 'Mastana':- The Mystic, divine and Spiritual Saint of Kashmir  Kashmir is often referred to as "the land of saints" due to its rich history of Sufi mystics and prominent religious figures, particularly within the Muslim community, who have deeply influenced the region's culture and spirituality;  many people consider it the "Abode of Rishis" (Reshi Waer) because of this concentration of Sufi saints. One such mystic and spiritual saint is Nand Bab Mastana. In spoken language ‘Nand’ is an abbreviation of the name Nandlal and ‘Bab’ means father or an elderly person. Every word that he uttered carried deep meaning and was of great consequence for all those who sought his blessings. Needless to say, the name of Swami Nand Bab stands out in the tradition of such mystics who are known for their godliness, spiritual power,prophecies, foresight, piety and holiness.  Nand Bab, better known by the name of Nand-Mot i.e., Nand Mastana or Nand Malang by the K...
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Aharbal Waterfall :- The Niagara of India

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Aharbal Waterfall :- The Niagara of India There are many tourist destinations in Kashmir and rightly so throughout the year tourists visit these wonderful places and enjoy the beautiful and pleasant climate of Kashmir especially during summers. One such place is located in South Kashmir's Kulgam district which is known as Aharbal Waterfall. Aharbal Waterfall, is also known as the "Niagara of Kashmir." It is located in the picturesque district of Kulgam, Tehsil Damhaal Hanjipora.  The word Aharbal  translates to a river of snakes a name that hints at the mystical allure of this place. It is said that the waterfall got its name due to the serpentine shape of the stream as it descends from the mountains. Aharbal waterfall is formed from the vishaw river which fall from 25 meters down to a narrow rock of granite boulders. River Veshaw is a tributary of River Jhelum. After the drop, the river continues through the valley.  The waterfall cascades down a rugged rock face, creati...
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Vashisht Temple: Manali's Hot Springs Oasis

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The Vashisht Temple is located about 3 kilometers from the Manali market, in the village of Vashist across the Beas River. This temple is dedicated to Rishi Vashist, the Kul guru of Lord Rama, who is said to have meditated in this area. It is believed that the temple is over 4,000 years old. Next to the temple, there is a natural hot water spring known as Vashist Kund. This spring is considered holy and is thought to have healing properties for various skin diseases. According to legend, the spring appeared at the spot where Lord Lakshman shot an arrow during his visit in search of his Kul Guru, Rishi Vashist. Additionally, there is another temple nearby known as Lord Ram's temple. The Vashisht Temple is believed to be around 4000 years old and is dedicated to the revered sage Guru Vashisht, one of the most ancient Vedic sages. Vashisht had a long-standing rivalry with King Vishwamitra, who, according to legend, killed all of Vashisht's children, leaving the sage in deep sorrow...
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The Essence of Navratri: Devotion, Dance, and Divine Blessings

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  The word Navratri originates from a sanskrit word 'ratri' which means night and 'nava' meaning nine. Sharada Navaratri is considered very sacred and auspicious, for this is the time when all the divine forces are at their highest level of percipience. During the Navaratri time, the divine Mother is worshipped in Her various forms such as Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati. Though Goddess is one, she is represented and worshipped in these different essential aspects.  However, Navratri festival is celebrated twice in a year,  once as Chiatra navratri and then as Sharad navratri. Both navratri’s are celebrated with great devotion and traditional gaiety. The underlying essence and spirit is the celebration ,respect and reverence to feminine power which is the cause and action of the universe. Thus navtatri is dedicated to the importance of feminine power without which we cannot think of the universe. Therefore by celebrating the navratri’s, we actually celebrate feminine power...
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Bhagwan Gopinath Ji:- The Saint of extraordinary spiritual stature

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Bhagwan Gopinath Ji:-  The Saint of extraordinary spiritual stature In this great churning of forms and formlessness, light shines forth at some places on the earth, perhaps for thousands of years in one place only. The concentration of such sites is probably more in Kashmir than at any other part of the world. That is why Buddha is reported to have said: "Kashmir is the best place for meditation and for leading a religious life. This is perhaps why Kashmir became the abode of two great religions, Mahayana Buddhism and Saivism. Furthermore, through its long religious and cultural history, Kashmir has given birth to many thinkers and philosophers, sages and saints whose contribution to spirituality has been immense. In recent times, however, Bhagwan Gopinath Ji has universally been recognised as a saint of extraordinary spiritual stature.  Let me commence this write up with the important quote of the great saint Bhagwan Gopinath Ji which reads as—Syazar, Pazar, Shvazar that is ...
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