devotional experience

Mantra chanting transcends mere repetition, with distinct methods profoundly altering the experience and mental impact. From loud Vaikhari Japa for atmosphere to inward-focused Upanshu and mental Manasik Japa, each form offers unique benefits. Likhit Japa grounds restless minds, while Sankirtan fosters collective energy. Advanced Ajapa Japa sees the mantra flow effortlessly, signifying a deep spiritual connection.

Veteran singer and musician Alka Yagnik shares her feelings and gratitude towards the Padma Bhushan honour and also talks about music and how she devoted her life to it.

Ilaiyaraaja's Chennai concert, featuring his debut symphony, drew thousands but left many fans disappointed with poor arrangements. Attendees cited issues with inadequate volunteer guidance, small screens, and muffled sound, hindering their experience. Complaints also surfaced regarding dirty seating and overpriced food. Despite these drawbacks, many lauded the maestro's captivating performance of his iconic hits.

A recent Kedarnath Yatra pilgrimage highlights significant challenges faced by travellers, including severe traffic jams and overcrowded routes. Despite extensive planning, one pilgrim's journey became a test of endurance, culminating in an inability to enter the temple due to overwhelming crowds, raising concerns about managing high tourist traffic at popular Indian pilgrimage sites.

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Rahul Deshpande's 'Abhangwari' marks 11 years of bringing Maharashtra's Bhakti saints' devotional poetry to audiences nationwide. Evolving from a musical offering, it has become a significant cultural and spiritual experience, celebrating the inclusive spirit of the Warkari tradition and keeping Abhangs alive for contemporary listeners.

Arohi Deshpande's remarkable JEE (Advanced) 2026 success, securing AIR 77 and becoming the top female candidate, stemmed from her family's bold move to Kota four years prior. Her parents and grandmother relocated with her, providing crucial support. This strategy, despite Kota's demanding environment, enabled Arohi to achieve her IIT Bombay Computer Science dream.

After spending over a decade behind the scenes as a music producer and founder of ENZY Studios, Nisschal Zaveri has returned to the art form that first inspired him: ghazals. Having worked on more than 250 projects across films, independent music, devotional and classical recordings, he is now focused on introducing younger audiences to Urdu poetry and ghazals without altering their essence. In this conversation, he reflects on his musical journey, the influence of his guru Pt. Dayal Thakur, the philosophy behind Whispers of the Infinite, and why he believes ghazals do not need reinvention, only rediscovery by a new generation of listeners.

Jane McDonald, the beloved singer and TV star, revealed she's living with her best friend Sue Ravey, sharing a harmonious arrangement that allows for individual friendships while enjoying shared laughter. McDonald also announced her upcoming 'Living the Dream' UK tour, following an emotional journey recording her new country album in Nashville, a process documented in a recent TV special.

Majuli, the world's largest river island, offers a slow reveal of its charm, deeply connected to the Brahmaputra's rhythm. Life unfolds unhurriedly, from the ferry journey to the authentic local markets and vibrant Bhaona performances. This unique destination rewards observation, showcasing a strong community spirit and a refreshing human pace of life.

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan clarified her daughter Aaradhya is not on social media, highlighting a conscious parenting choice to shield her from online pressures. This approach prioritizes real-life experiences over constant digital visibility, emphasizing that digital access should be a deliberate decision. The focus remains on nurturing a grounded childhood, with privacy acting as a crucial form of care.

Vaikasi Visakam, a significant birth celebration for Lord Murugan, is observed with deep devotion in Tamil homes, often overlooked in North India. This festival, rooted in ancient Puranic tales, highlights Murugan's role as a god of courage, wisdom, and victory, fostering a personal connection for devotees.

In 1859, chemist Robert Chesebrough observed a waxy residue on Pennsylvania oil rigs, known as "rod wax," which workers used for minor skin irritations. He collected samples, researched its properties, and patented a purification process. By 1870, he marketed this refined substance as Vaseline, a simple yet effective skin protectant that has endured for over a century.

Today's horoscope emphasizes the power of communication, consistency, and emotional authenticity in love. Each zodiac sign is advised to focus on genuine connection, whether through kind words, attentive listening, or expressing true feelings. The stars suggest that vulnerability and self-respect are key to fostering deeper, more meaningful romantic relationships.

Naming a house in India is a centuries-old tradition, imbuing homes with meaning and cultural weight. Traditional Sanskrit, nature-inspired, and regional names like Anandgriha, Nandanvan, and Illam offer enduring value. These names reflect deeply held family values and a connection to heritage, providing a sense of belonging and identity that transcends fleeting trends.

Animated feature film 'Mahaprabhu Jagannath', which will release across more than 300 screens in Hindi, Odia and Telugu, will begin the first chapter of the 'Sanatan Universe'.

Deoghar, Jharkhand, the 'Abode of the Gods,' centers around the revered Baba Baidyanath Dham, a significant Jyotirlinga and Shakti Peeth. Beyond its spiritual importance, the town offers ancient myths, unique temple architecture like the Panchshul spire, and scenic spots like Trikut Pahar. The vibrant Shravani Mela and local pedas add to its allure.

Gujarati cinema is making waves globally, transcending regional boundaries. Films like 'Laalo' achieved historic box office success and Cannes recognition, while 'Vash' secured a National Film Award. 'Chhello Show' gained international acclaim, even reaching the Oscars shortlist. This vibrant industry is proving its storytelling prowess with diverse genres, captivating audiences worldwide.

Discover your daily horoscope's romantic outlook. Each zodiac sign receives guidance on navigating love, relationships, and self-worth. Whether single or partnered, the universe offers insights to foster deeper connections and embrace your authentic feelings today.

Astrological insights suggest a day of favorable outcomes across various aspects of life. Expect professional success, strong family support, and potential financial gains. Property matters are likely to resolve positively, and enjoyable excursions with loved ones are on the horizon. Health and well-being are also highlighted as areas of focus.

Adhik Maas, also known as Purushottam Maas, begins May 17, 2026, offering a significant spiritual period for devotees. This auspicious time, coinciding with Jyeshtha month, is ideal for enhancing spiritual knowledge and devotion to Lord Vishnu. Engaging in rituals like fasting, chanting, and charity can deepen one's connection with the divine.

Miley Cyrus received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, celebrating her enduring career. The honour follows the 20th anniversary of 'Hannah Montana'. Cyrus reflected on her journey, emphasizing the urgency of life and art, and the accumulation of devotion behind her star. She expressed hope her work inspires future generations.

National Award-winning writer Raam Mori discusses the adaptation of his novel 'Satyabhama' into the film 'Krishnavataram Part 1: The Heart'. He shares insights on humanizing divine characters and the emotional storytelling, highlighting the joy of collaborating with Prakash Kapadia on the screenplay.

Vijaya Bhaskar Reddy established Tech Bulls, Andhra Pradesh's first rural IT company, in Ongole, empowering hundreds of poor women from remote villages. This initiative brought technology-driven jobs to rural areas, enabling women to achieve financial independence and support their families without migrating. The company's success has expanded internationally, with a continued focus on social empowerment and promoting advanced technology education.

Discover Okunevo, Siberia's coldest Hindu village, where Sanskrit chants and yoga are practiced in sub-zero temperatures. This remote hamlet, influenced by Hindu movements, hosts ashrams and temples, attracting spiritual seekers globally. Travelers can experience a unique cultural contrast, especially during the milder summer months.