consecration ceremony

A Kerala-style Guruvayurappan temple is being meticulously recreated in Vrindavan, aiming to replicate the spiritual ecosystem of the original shrine. Following traditional Kerala architectural and tantric principles, the project, overseen by hereditary priests and guided by Vaastu experts, will feature a koothambalam. The consecration is set for February 19, 2027, promising an authentic Kerala sanctuary in North India.

Male-female physical communion becomes a sacred act, a gentle, respectful oblation to the Yoni as Source, when body becomes altar. The ritual is no different than what one would perform heartfelt in a temple, writes NARAYANI GANESH

Vaikasi Visakam, Lord Murugan's birth star, is celebrated with home pujas, temple visits, and simple offerings. Families worldwide observe this day with prayers for wisdom and courage. The observance, marked by the Visakam nakshatra in the Tamil month of Vaikasi, emphasizes devotion over elaborate rituals, making it accessible to all.

Yogi: Religion Protects Those Who Protect It

Matunga's Sri Prasanna Ganpati temple is set to witness a grand Sri Brahma Kumbhabhishek ceremony on May 6, officiated by twelve priests from Udupi. This significant event, featuring 108 pots of holy water, marks the idol's return after a three-year relocation due to building redevelopment. The consecration will officially reinstate the deity in its renovated shrine.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the Somnath Amrut Mahotsav, commemorating 75 years since the restored temple's inauguration. He offered prayers, performed rituals, and paid tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The event also featured aerial displays by the IAF's Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team.

Queen of the Apostles’ Church in Kurji Parish has launched a 10-day festival honoring Mother Mary. The event began with a flag hoisting and prayers for the departed, including a graveyard blessing. Daily Rosary, Novena prayers, and Solemn Masses are scheduled, with each day dedicated to specific intentions. The festival culminates on May 10th with a Eucharist and cultural programs.

A 26-year-old woman, Ritika, was fatally shot during a temple consecration ceremony in Shimla's Rohru. The incident occurred on Sunday when a celebratory shot, fired by the accused, tragically struck the victim. Police have arrested one individual and seized the weapon used in the shooting.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded his West Bengal election campaign with an open letter, expressing his vision for a 'Viksito Bangla' and highlighting the affection received. He emphasized the aspirations for change among youth, women, and all citizens, reaffirming his commitment to serving the state and assuring a BJP Chief Minister's swearing-in ceremony.

Taking a direct swipe at the Centre, Stalin said, "Last week, the delimitation bill introduced by the BJP-led Union Government appeared to be an attempt to punish us, a state that has controlled population growth and is among the best-performing in industrial development. As soon as this bill was introduced, I was the first to oppose it and lead protests, including burning copies of the bill. The fire we lit has reduced that bill to ashes."