Aruns Yoga – Spiritual Knowledge, Astrology & Sacred Traditions
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Vasuki: Why This Serpent King Is Central to Hindu Legends
Introduction Vasuki, known as the king of the nagas, occupies a unique place in Hindu mythology. He is not merely a giant serpent but a divine being whose actions influence cosmic events and everyday devotion. From ancient scriptures to contemporary festivals, Vasuki’s story intertwines with the themes of sacrifice, balance, and protection. Mythological Origins Vasuki…
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Rati: The Goddess of Love and Her Place in Hindu Mythology
Introduction to Rati Rati is the celebrated goddess of love, desire, and sensuality in Hindu mythology. Often described as the eternal companion of Kamadeva, the god of love, she embodies the refined, enduring aspect of affection that transcends fleeting attraction. While Kamadeva’s arrows spark the initial spark of love, Rati’s presence nurtures and sustains that…
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Ekanamsha: Understanding the One‑Form Goddess in Hindu Tradition
Origins and Mythic Roots Ekanamsha, whose name literally means “the single‑form,” emerges in early Hindu scriptures as a mysterious yet nurturing aspect of the divine feminine. She is often described as an incarnation of Durga or Yogamaya, the power that veils the supreme reality, and she appears alongside the youthful god Krishna in several Puranic…
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Subhadra: The Sister of Krishna and Her Role in Hindu Mythology
Introduction Both the Mahabharata (Udyoga Parva, Chapter 44) and the Harivamsa (Section 3.28) describe Subhadra’s marriage to Arjuna as a diplomatic alliance that linked the Yadava and Pandava families, strengthening the coalition that later fought at Kurukshetra. Though she does not dominate the narrative like her brother Krishna or husband Arjuna, her actions influence key…
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Hardaul: The Folk Warrior Deity of Rajasthan’s Desert Frontiers
Origins and Mythology Hardaul is celebrated as a fierce protector who roams the arid plains of western Rajasthan. According to oral tradition, he was born to a noble Rajput family but chose a life of wandering after witnessing the suffering of shepherds and traders caught in sandstorms. Legends describe him wielding a curved sword and…
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Pabuji: The Heroic Folk Deity Who Guards Rajasthan’s Desert Herds
Who Is Pabuji? Pabuji, also known as Phooldev or Pabuji Rathore, is a celebrated folk deity of the north‑western Indian state of Rajasthan. He is revered as a protector of cattle, a heroic warrior, and a divine figure whose stories are sung in the traditional Phad scroll paintings and ballads. The Legend Behind the Deity…
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Ramdevji: The Folk Saint Who Bridges Devotion and Social Justice
Who Was Ramdevji? Ramdevji, also known as Ramdev Baba, was a 14th‑century Rajput prince who became a revered folk deity in the western parts of India, especially Rajasthan, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh. Born into the Chauhan clan, he is remembered for his commitment to social equality, his miraculous powers, and his refusal to accept caste…
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Gogaji: The Folk Warrior Deity Who Guards Rajasthan’s Villages
Introduction Gogaji’s worship is a unique amalgamation of Hindu, Sikh, and local tribal traditions, reflecting the diverse cultural landscape of North India. This syncretism is evident in the rituals, songs, and festivals associated with him, which often incorporate elements from various faiths. Mythic Origins and Legends The legends of Gogaji vary by region, but most…
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Bhumiya: The Earth Guardian Deity of Rural Maharashtra
Who Is Bhumiya? Bhumiya is a local earth deity worshipped predominantly in the western districts of Maharashtra. Unlike the pan‑Indian pantheon, Bhumiya is rooted in agrarian life, embodying the soil’s fertility, protection against natural calamities, and the well‑being of the village community. Origins and Legends According to oral tradition, Bhumiya emerged from a myth in…
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Verai Mata: Legends, Worship Practices, and Her Role in Rural Maharashtra
Introduction to Verai Mata According to regional oral tradition of the western hills of Maharashtra, Verai Mata is revered as a folk goddess who protects villages and travelers. Mythic Origins and Legends Local folklore collected during the Maharashtra Folklore Survey (1965) recounts various stories, including one where a woman named Verai shared her last grain…