HPI PORT-OF-SPAIN, TRINIDAD/TOBAGO, October 7, 2019 (HPI by Paras Ramoutar): Hindus in Trinidad and Tobago observed Nau Raatri with great enthusiasm and devotion which lasted for nine days as mandirs, homes and other public places of worship were packed signalling again that Hinduism is strong and vibrant. The nine days of worship ended on Sunday night (Oct. 6) amidst the…
Source Where seekest thou? That freedom, friend, this world nor that can give. In books and temples, vain thy search. Thine only is the hand that holds the rope that drags thee on. Then cease lament. Let go thy hold, sannyasin bold! Say “Om Tat Sat, Om!” — Swami Vivekananda (1863‚Äì1902), Song of the Sannyasin
Source NEW DELHI, INDIA, October 3, 2019 (Deccan Chronicle): In an attempt to curb immersion of statues in the Ganga or its tributaries during festivals, the Indian Central Government in Delhi has issued a 15-point directive, which includes imposing a fine of US$700 (Rs. 50,000) and the cordoning off ghats, among other requirements reported News18. “No statue immersion into river…
Source Do not look upon yoga as something beyond you or as calling for any extraordinary efforts. You can remain in your station of life, carry on your work and at the same time embark on the yogic path. Do japa, prayer, kirtan, meditation and asanas regularly. — Swami Sivanada (1887-1963), founder of Divine Life Society
Source INDIA, September 27, 2019 (Live Law): The Tripura High Court has, in an important judgment delivered on Friday, banned animal/birds sacrifice in the temples of the state observing that the animals also have a fundamental right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution of India. No person including the State shall be allowed to sacrifice of any animal/bird…
Source PHAN RANG, VIETNAM, September 30, 2019 (Reuters): Thousands of Vietnam’s ethnic Cham people met under rainy late September skies for their annual “Kate” festival that, according to the multi-faith community’s calendar, marks the end of one harvest season and the beginning of another. The Cham are descendents of a powerful ancient kingdom that once spanned large parts of central…
Source Association with sages should be made because thoughts are so persistent. The sage has already overcome the mind and remains in peace. Being in his proximity helps to bring about this condition in others, otherwise there is no meaning in seeking his company. The guru provides the needed strength for this, unseen by others. — Ramana Maharshi (1879-1950)
Source NEW DELHI, INDIA, September 27, 2019 (Careers 360): HPI Note: We thought this announcement offered an interesting view into the religious diversity of the country’s armed forces. The Indian Army has released an online notification recruitment on September 27, 2019, for Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) Religious Teacher for 152 vacancies. Candidates who are between 25 to 34 years age,…
Source SABARIMALA, INDIA, September 27, 2019 (Bar and Bench): The lack of concrete jurisprudence regulating the relationship between religion and the law has created an intractable lacuna in the social and legal ethos of India. Although the Supreme Court, through various opinions has helped curb this uncertainty, the ambiguity with respect to the interference of the courts with religion may…
Source Generous, selfless giving is among dharma’s central fulfillments. Hospitality, charity and support of God’s work on Earth arises from the belief that the underlying purpose of life is spiritual, not material. — Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami (1927-2001), founder of Hinduism Today