1. Ambur Biryani (Near Chennai, Tamil Nadu)
Kolathur Biryani (Near Trichy, Tamil Nadu) - Only available on Sunday
Dindugal Biryani (Tamil Nadu)
2. Tirunelveli Alva
3. Sriviliputhur Palkova
4. Kovilpatti kadalaimittai
5. Manapparai murukku
6. Kumbakonam Coffee
7. Sattur Sevu
8. Madurai Jigarthanda
9. Thoothukudi Macroon
10. Madurai Kari dosai
11. Virudhunagar Ennai Parota
Let’s say that their only common thing was their sex.But first let me tell you about women in Athens.
An Athenian woman from the day she was born she was trained just to please her husband.She should know how to do the housework and other things like sewing in a room called ginekonitis where only girls were allowed.
Although ,when they got married they had servants to do the work for them as they were responsible only for making more babies, especially boys, and raise them. Boys after 7 years old were taken from their mother and other people gave them education.Girls were not allowed to have education.
In Athenian homes the husband was considered absolutely normal to have sexual relationships with other women called pallakides (who he brought to home when he wanted to).Pallakides were not getting married and had the right to get some education and attend men in festivals ,while a “proper” Athenian girl could not.
A Spartian woman was way more free.Their purpose in life was to make strong boys that would be good soldiers.*
Spartians knew the strongest and more fit a woman is the strongest the baby they carry so Spartian girls were well trained and did sports and participated in races with men in running,discus,etc.
Spartian women had their own voice and could form an opinion and even change their husband’s mind.She could be free to disagree with something or propose her way on doing something.Although the basic War Council in Sparti contained only men.
Their clothing was not so strict as it was in Athens and they could wear as short clothes as they wanted.They were free.
In Sparta there were not pallakides or other things like that.The Spartian couple consisted a man and a woman ,no else third person.
*As you may know Spartians were very loyal to their contry and had Sparta over everything,even their children.When a disable child was born they killed it by throwing it in a river .If a child was not good at fighting or surviving or was “fragile” it would get killed before the age of 12.
NOTE:
Woman were totally okay with thing like that so a common saying is the phrase “i tan i epi tas” while giving them their shield which means “this or on this” meaning that, you will return as a winner with this shield or you will return dead on the shield.
That is because they thought that a man throws his shield only to run away and Spartian mothers preferred to see their son return dead than return as a coward.
Founder : Swami Dayanand Saraswati , a Hindu monk, founded Arya Samaj in 1876.
Nirguna : Swami emphasized that almighty is featureless and without superstitions.
Puritan : He claimed , original Vedic culture was the best way to lead life.
He did not believe in casteism or cultural identity.
He promoted Sanskrit ; Gayatri Upasana ; Yagya and other sacred rituals.
Sect : Swami Dayanand ji simply defined it as a neo sect among other Hindu sects.
Arya Samaj has its own priests and believes in certain Vedic culture.
Reformist : Arya Samaj was basically meant to reform Hinduism from various dogmas.
It became quite popular in Punjab ; western Uttar Pradesh and Delhi.
It was promoted by liberal thinking public figures (Lala Lajpat Rai ; Ram Prasad Bismil)
Facts : Mainstream or Sanatan Dharm believes in Saguna ( God with attributes) Upasana.
Sanatan Dharm does believe in ancient casteism and cultural rites.
But, it also believes in 'Ekam Sat Vipra Bahudha Vadanti' (Truth is one, but the wise speak it as many)
According to Sanatan Dharm ; Vedic rituals are nor meant for all.
Only those who are spiritually qualified can chant Vedic mantras or conduct Yagyas.
Sanatan Dharm believes ; there is space for every spiritual thought in Hinduism.
Sanatan Dharm or mainstream Hinduism is spread across the world in various forms and practices.
Well : To each his / her own !
Pic Credits : Google Images / Web
Kerala. And it’s not even close. In some respect it’s strange how different it is from rest of us.
It differs from all three major ethnicities in almost every sphere- religion, dance, cuisine, Gods, cousin-marriage, festivals…I will explain a few here
Cousin-Marriage: Except Kerala all other states have very high rate of cousin marriage and in fact it the most preferred among Kannadigas, Telugus and Tamils.
Cuisine: The fact that beef eating is acceptable in Kerala is unique among all the Hindus.
Religion: Kerala is religiously diverse while all other states in South are much more homogeneous. No other state in India is as diverse as Kerala in religion.
Dance: Their classical dance forms Kathakali and Mohiniyattam are easily distinguishable.
Festivals: Kerala doesn’t celebrate Deepavali. It doesn’t celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi. It’s major festivals are different with a totally different mythology.
Language: Urdu usage is near zero among Kerala Muslims- this is unique- not even Tamil Nadu has this much uniformity.
Many great warriors in Mahabharata had divine bows.
Baffling the nooses of Mura and slaying by his might that Asura, and vanquishing Naraka, the son of the Earth, Hrishikesa, while recovering the begemmed ear-rings (of Aditi), with sixteen thousand girls and various kinds of jewels and gems, obtained that excellent bow called Sarnga.
2. Gandiva bow of Arjuna -
And taking up that celestial and first of bows created by Brahman of old and called Gandiva, Arjuna was filled with joy. And bowing unto Hutasana, Partha endued with great energy, took up the bow and strung it forcibly.
3. Vijaya bow of Rukmi -
And Rukmi having obtained the bow called Vijaya whose twang resembled the roar of the clouds came to the Pandavas, as if inspiring the whole universe with dread.
4. Mahendra bow of Yudhishtira and Vayavya bow of Bhima -
In Yudhishthira's hands was the celestial bow called Mahendra; and in the hands of Bhimasena, O king, was the celestial bow called Vayavya.
5. Vaishnava and Aswina bows of Nakula and Sahadeva -
The Vaishnava bow was held by Nakula, and the bow called Aswina was held by Sahadeva.
6. The bows of Upapandavas -
The five jewels of bows born by the five sons of Draupadi were the Raudra, the Agneya, the Kauverya, the Yamya, and the Girisa.
7. Raudra bow of Abhimanyu -
That excellent and best of bows, called the Raudra, which Rohini's son (Valadeva) had obtained, the latter gave unto the high-souled son of Subhadra, having been gratified with him.
8. Vijaya bow of Karna -
My bow, called Vijaya, is the foremost of all weapons (of its kind). Desirous of doing what was agreeable (to Indra), it was made by Vishakarman (the celestial artificer) for Indra.
Drona and Dhrishtadyumna also had divine bows but they were not named in the Ithihasa.
Hindu mythology is a vast and intricate system of beliefs, stories, and traditions that features numerous divine beings, sages, and even mortals who possess extraordinary powers. These superpowers, often referred to as 'siddhis' or 'divya shaktis,' stem from various sources, including divine boons, intense meditation, yogic practices, and celestial inheritance. The following analysis explores the origins of different superpowers in Hindu mythology and categorizes them based on their sources.
1. Siddhis: Supernatural Abilities Attained Through Yogic Practices
Siddhis are mystical abilities acquired through rigorous yogic discipline, meditation, and devotion. Ancient texts such as the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali and the Bhagavata Purana enumerate several siddhis, which are classified into eight major types, known as the Ashta Siddhis:
These powers were typically acquired through deep tapasya (austerity) and penance. Sages such as Vishwamitra and Narada were believed to have possessed siddhis through their unwavering spiritual practices.
2. Divine Boons (Varas) Granted by Gods
In Hindu mythology, divine beings, including Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, frequently granted boons to devotees who performed intense penance. These boons often resulted in the acquisition of supernatural abilities. Examples include:
Boons often played a crucial role in shaping the fates of both devas (gods) and asuras (demons), sometimes leading to unintended consequences.
3. Powers Derived from Celestial Birth
Some beings in Hindu mythology were born with divine powers due to their celestial origins. These individuals possessed innate supernatural abilities that set them apart from ordinary mortals. Examples include:
4. Weapons of Cosmic Power (Astras and Shastras)
In Hindu epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana, divine weapons known as astras were bestowed upon warriors by gods. These weapons carried devastating powers and often required specific mantras to invoke them. Examples include:
These weapons were often wielded by epic heroes such as Arjuna, Karna, and Ravana and required immense spiritual discipline to acquire and control.
5. Curses and Blessings: Powers Transmitted Through Words
In Hindu mythology, spoken words held immense power. Both blessings and curses could bestow supernatural abilities or cause devastating consequences.
Words, whether spoken in anger or benevolence, held the ability to shape destinies in Hindu mythological narratives.
6. Alchemy and Mystical Herbs: The Science of Superpowers
Hindu mythology also contains references to mystical herbs and substances that granted supernatural abilities:
7. Possession and Incarnations: Divine Influence on Mortals
Certain figures in Hindu mythology were believed to be possessed or incarnated by divine energies that granted them extraordinary powers.
These manifestations often occurred during critical moments to restore dharma (cosmic order).
Conclusion
The superpowers depicted in Hindu mythology originate from various sources, including intense spiritual discipline, divine blessings, celestial heritage, and mystical knowledge. Whether acquired through devotion, knowledge, or divine intervention, these abilities symbolize the profound relationship between the mortal and the divine in Hindu tradition. Each power serves a purpose in the grand cosmic order, often ensuring the triumph of righteousness over evil. Hindu mythology, rich with these supernatural elements, continues to captivate and inspire, offering deep spiritual and philosophical insights into the nature of power and its responsibility.
Introduction
Draupadi, one of the most revered figures in the Mahabharata, is a symbol of strength, dignity, and divine grace. She is known by several names, each reflecting different aspects of her personality, divine origins, and her role in the epic. Understanding these names provides insight into her character, virtues, and the significance of her presence in the Mahabharata. This detailed analysis explores the different names of Draupadi, their meanings, and their contextual importance in Hindu mythology.
1. Draupadi: The Daughter of Drupada
The name Draupadi means ‘daughter of Drupada,’ referring to her lineage as the princess of Panchala and the daughter of King Drupada. This name highlights her royal heritage and the circumstances of her divine birth through a sacrificial fire, making her unique among all women in the Mahabharata.
2. Krishnaa: The Dark-Hued One
One of Draupadi’s most commonly used names is Krishnaa, meaning ‘the dark-hued one.’ This name signifies her exceptional beauty, often described as possessing a complexion as radiant as a dark lotus or a monsoon cloud. It also establishes a connection between her and Lord Krishna, her closest friend and guide, suggesting a divine bond between them.
3. Panchali: The Princess of Panchala
The name Panchali signifies Draupadi’s identity as the princess of the kingdom of Panchala. This name is often used in the epic when referring to her role as the daughter of Drupada and her representation of the pride and honor of Panchala.
4. Yajnaseni: The One Born from a Yajna (Sacrificial Fire)
Draupadi was not born in a conventional manner but emerged from the sacred fire during King Drupada’s yajna (sacrificial ritual), conducted to obtain a powerful offspring who could defeat Drona. Because of this miraculous birth, she is called Yajnaseni, meaning ‘born of a yajna.’ This name highlights her divine origin and her predetermined role in shaping the destiny of the Pandavas.
5. Sairandhri: The Maid of Queen Sudeshna
During the Pandavas’ exile, Draupadi assumed the disguise of Sairandhri, a maid in the court of Queen Sudeshna in the kingdom of Matsya. This name is significant because it reflects her resilience, adaptability, and ability to maintain her dignity even in adversity. As Sairandhri, she endured harassment from Kichaka, which ultimately led to his destruction by Bhima.
6. Malini: The Bearer of Garlands
Draupadi is sometimes referred to as Malini, meaning ‘one adorned with garlands.’ This name can be connected to her Swayamvara, where she garlanded Arjuna as her chosen husband. It symbolizes her agency in choosing her partner, a rare privilege for women in that era.
7. Parshati: The Granddaughter of Prishata
As the granddaughter of King Prishata, Draupadi is also known as Parshati. This name reflects her noble lineage and reinforces her connection to a powerful warrior ancestry, highlighting the warrior spirit she inherited.
8. Nityayuvani: The Ever-Youthful One
The name Nityayuvani means ‘the one who is eternally young.’ This could be an allusion to her divine origin, which may have granted her an ageless beauty and charm, distinguishing her from ordinary women.
9. Mahabhaagaa: The Greatly Fortunate One
Draupadi is sometimes called Mahabhaagaa, meaning ‘the greatly fortunate one.’ This name may seem ironic given her hardships, but in a spiritual sense, it signifies that she was blessed with divine protection, unwavering devotion, and an unbreakable spirit.
10. Sumadhyama: The Beautifully Shaped One
Draupadi’s beauty is frequently described in the Mahabharata, and the name Sumadhyama (‘one with a graceful form’) is used to highlight her divine allure and enchanting presence.
11. Pativrata Shiromani: The Epitome of Devotion to Husbands
Despite the unusual circumstance of being married to five husbands, Draupadi remained devoted and just in her role. She is often regarded as a Pativrata Shiromani, the ultimate symbol of loyalty and devotion to her husbands, ensuring that she upheld Dharma (righteousness) in all circumstances.
12. Shyamala: The Dusky Beauty
Similar to Krishnaa, the name Shyamala also refers to Draupadi’s dark complexion, reinforcing her uniqueness and divine charm. Her beauty is often compared to that of the celestial Apsaras.
13. Veerasundari: The Brave and Beautiful One
Draupadi was not only known for her physical beauty but also for her extraordinary courage. The name Veerasundari (‘the brave and beautiful one’) captures both these aspects, emphasizing her warrior-like resolve and charm.
14. Agni Kanya: The Daughter of Fire
Since Draupadi emerged from fire, she is sometimes referred to as Agni Kanya (‘daughter of fire’). This name symbolizes her fiery spirit, which burns against injustice and dishonor, as seen in her vow for vengeance after her humiliation in the Kaurava court.
15. Draupadaputri: The Beloved Daughter of Drupada
As a cherished daughter of King Drupada, she is sometimes called Draupadaputri, reinforcing her father’s pride and expectations of her playing a crucial role in his revenge against Drona.
16. Satyavadi: The Truthful One
Draupadi always stood for truth and justice, never hesitating to question wrongdoing. The name Satyavadi (‘the truthful one’) reflects her unwavering commitment to righteousness.
17. Manini: The Dignified One
Despite the numerous hardships she faced, Draupadi never lost her self-respect. The name Manini (‘the dignified one’) represents her unyielding pride, dignity, and grace even in adversity.
18. Dharmapatni: The Wife of the Righteous Ones
As the wife of the five Pandavas, who are known as embodiments of Dharma, Draupadi is often referred to as Dharmapatni (‘wife of the righteous ones’). This name underscores her role as an integral part of their journey toward justice and truth.
19. Arshajaa: The Noble-Born
Draupadi’s royal lineage and divine birth earn her the title Arshajaa, which means ‘noble-born.’ This name emphasizes her high status and her destiny to influence the course of history.
20. Panchamahishi: The Queen of Five
A unique name given to Draupadi is Panchamahishi, meaning ‘the queen of five,’ as she was married to the five Pandava brothers. This name highlights her rare marital status and the challenges and responsibilities that came with it.
Conclusion
Draupadi’s various names reflect the many dimensions of her character—her beauty, strength, divine origins, resilience, and unwavering commitment to truth. Each name is a testament to her extraordinary journey and her enduring legacy in Hindu mythology. Through these names, we gain deeper insight into her unparalleled influence as a queen, a warrior, a wife, and a beacon of justice in the Mahabharata.