Dr Venganoor Balakrishnan
Spiritual is not religious
Spirituality is a term that is often mistaken for a life of asceticism, meant either for aged people or saints, or for people who have proved an utter failure in material life or the last resort of those who are fed up with the material world.
Temples of energy
According to our scriptures, a temple represents the body of the deity. The outer structures symbolise the material body of the deity whereas the idol within the sanctum sanctorum represents the subtle body. If either is subject to any harm or impurity, it affects the other also.
Six evils and bliss
Sages of ancient India have pointed out the six evils that can sully a person’s character and cut short longevity.
Importance of Sabarimala
There seems to be much confusion in the minds of the devotees on how the Sabarimala pilgrimage should be conducted in the proper manner and what rites it involves.
Realise your will power
The rishis of ancient India who created our rich tradition were highly practical men. The sages of the past envisaged a useful life for the people throbbing with positive energy and life-force.
Gods of the New Year
We now celebrate New Year with late-night parties. But Indian tradition prescribes a totally different way to start the New Year.
Beliefs and their logic
There is an age-old belief that if a broom and winnower are left together, it is harmful to the head of the family.
Importance of yagyas
The vastness and depth of the lore we have inherited from our forefathers is amazing.
The joy of fasting
Fasting was not just an occasional ritual for our ancestors. They realised that it has both practical and spiritual value and made it a part of their lifestyle.
Offerings and their impact
It is a common practice of devotees to make offerings and pujas to deities. We usually do this expecting favours and blessings in return.
