I HAVE LEARNED

I’ve learned-
that you cannot make someone love you. All you can do is be someone who can be loved. The rest is up to them.

I’ve learned-
that no matter how much I care, some people just don’t care back.

I’ve learned-
that it takes years to build up trust, and only seconds to destroy it.

I’ve learned-
that no matter how good a friend is, they’re going to hurt you every once in a while and you must forgive them for that.

I’ve learned-
that it’s not what you have in your life but who you have in your life that counts.

I’ve learned-
that you should never ruin an apology with an excuse.

I’ve learned-
that you can get by on charm for about fifteen minutes. After that, you’d better know something.

I’ve learned-
that you shouldn’t compare yourself to the best others can do.

I’ve learned-
that you can do something in an instant that will give you heartache for life.

I’ve learned-
that it’s taking me a long time to become the person I want to be.

I’ve learned-
that you should always leave loved ones with loving words. It may be the last time you see them.

I’ve learned-
that you can keep going long after you can’t.

I’ve learned-
that we are responsible for what we do, no matter how we feel.

I’ve learned-
that either you control your attitude or it controls you.

I’ve learned-
that regardless of how hot and steamy a relationship is at first, the passion fades and there had better be something else to take its place.

I’ve learned-
that heroes are the people who do what has to be done when it needs to be done, regardless of the consequences.

I’ve learned-
that money is a lousy way of keeping score.

I’ve learned-
that my best friend and I can do anything or nothing and have the best time.

I’ve learned-
that sometimes the people you expect to kick you when you’re down will be the ones to help you get back up.

I’ve learned-
that sometimes when I’m angry I have the right to be angry, but that doesn’t give me the right to be cruel.

FAITH,TRUST, CONFIDENCE, OVER CONFIDENCE

1. Once, all villagers decided to pray for rain, on the day of prayer all the People gathered but only one boy came with an umbrella...

THAT'S FAITH

2. When you throw a baby in the air, she laughs because she knows you will catch her...

THAT'S TRUST

3.Every night we go to bed, without any assurance of being alive the next Morning but still we set the alarms in our watch to wake up...

THAT'S HOPE

4. We plan big things for tomorrow in spite of zero knowledge of the future or having any certainty of uncertainties

THAT'S CONFIDENCE

5. We see the world suffering. We know there is every possibility of same or similar things happening to us. But still we get married??...

THAT'S OVER CONFIDENCE. 

WISE STORY ABOUT MOUSETRAP

This is a good wise story. we have to get the meaning and begin a project to help those ones who are starving, not having a shelter or educated and those who are suffering from discrimination

A mouse looked through the crack in the wall to see the farmer and his wife open a package. “What food might this contain?” the mouse wondered. He was devastated to discover it was a mousetrap.

Retreating to the farmyard, the mouse proclaimed the warning: “There is a mousetrap in the house! There is a mousetrap in the house!”

The chicken clucked and scratched, raised her head and said “Mr. Mouse, I can tell this is a grave concern to you, but it is of no consequence to me. I cannot be bothered by it.”

The mouse turned to the pig and told him “There is a mousetrap in the house! There is a mousetrap in the house!” The pig sympathized, but said “I am so very sorry, Mr. Mouse, but there is nothing I can do about it but pray. Be assured you are in my prayers.”

The mouse turned to the cow and said “There is a mousetrap in the house! There is a mousetrap in the house!” The cow said “Wow, Mr. Mouse. I’m sorry for you, but it’s no skin off my nose.”

So, the mouse returned to the house, head down and dejected, to face the farmer’s mousetrap alone.

That very night a sound was heard throughout the house – like the sound of a mousetrap catching its prey. The farmer’s wife rushed to see what was caught. In the darkness, she did not see it was a venomous snake whose tail the trap had caught. The snake bit the farmer’s wife. The farmer rushed her to the hospital and she returned home with a fever.

Everyone knows you treat a fever with fresh chicken soup, so the farmer took his hatchet to the farmyard for the soup’s main ingredient. But his wife’s sickness continued, so friends and neighbors came to sit with her around the clock. To feed them, the farmer butchered the pig. The farmer’s wife did not get well; she died. So many! people came for her funeral, the farmer had the cow slaughtered to provide enough meat for all of them.

The mouse looked upon it all from his crack in the wall with great sadness. So, the next time you hear someone is facing a problem and think it doesn’t concern you, remember: when one of us is threatened, we are all at risk. We are all involved in this journey called life. We must keep an eye out for one another and make an extra effort to encourage one another. Each of us is a vital thread in another person’s tapestry.

LOVE MAY BE BLIND BUT YOU'RE NOT..

In Shakespeares Mid-Summer Nights Dream we learnt Lovelooks not with the eyes, but with the mind, and therefore is winged Cupid paintedblind. We have read more often than not thatLove is blind. If you love someone it is more often than not tough to see the obvious or make an impartial assessment of the persons character. It has been witnessed so often that love clouds your judgment and you are not able to see beyond a cloak of all that is glossy and beautiful.

What does she see in him? He is so full of faults, She could do so much better! Oh well I guess Love is truly blind!havent we all said this at some point of time or the other? But why is it that when one is in love all that they see and consider are the good qualities of the person and simply choose to ignore those that may, at a point in time in the future, be the cause of that love breaking down? Think about it, are you too blinded by love?

Robert Brault famously noted that It is not that love is blind. It is that love sees with a painters eye, finding the essence that renders all else background. The feeling of being in love is all too overwhelming to even warrant the need to focus on what makes up the person in entirety. The bad, the horrible and the irritating are adjectives that one avoids associating with a loved one. But dont you think this is something which often results in heart breaks and distress?

A wife tolerates every nuisance of her husband on the pretext oflove. She often ignores the signs of impending doom on their relationship as she is all too busy being enveloped in this false feeling of ethereal love. A boyfriend fails to see the temperamental difference between him and his girlfriend; he does things against his will and interest for that day in his imminent future where she will transform magically for him. Isnt he blinded by the rosy notion of love? Of course he is and his castle of love is just floating in the air waiting for a tornado to shatter it to pieces.

What happens when you walk in a highway with no street lights at nightblindfolded? There is a hundred percent chance of you being run over; almost to certainty. Being unsighted in love is no different unless of course you are a favourite of The Man up there!

Look into your relationship and ask yourself the question, Am I blindly in love? When apersonforgoes his individuality, his likes and dislikes for a person he is in love with then it is nothing but walking down a roadblindfolded. It may be a plain straight forward path for a while but he is bound to trip as soon as the bend appears. Love is a beautiful feeling no doubt but everything needs to be in perspective; more so in the times we live today.

If you falling in love compromising all that you believe in then trust me it may not actually be worth it unless the compromise is from both sides. You cry and make up your mind to end it then and there if you are a girl. Thats it you think and no longer want to go through the pain. But then suddenly the phone rings and flashes his name. You pick up the call and amazingly disregard all that you just decided. Why does that happen? He calls you in his own sweet time not when you urged him repeatedly. That simple and hugely delayed call from him melts you and you are prepared to put everything behind you. If that is the cycle of yourrelationshipthen you need to ponder if this is actually conducive for your well being.

I have often seen people going through miserable periods of courtesy theirpartners but they readily forgive and move forward all the while pretending that all is well. But is it really? If you cannot erase the memories that hurt you, if on occasions you frequent that part of your recollection which harbors negativity towards the bond then certainly the issues still persist deep down. The first thing you need to keep in mind is that a relationship needs respect as much as it needs love. Apersonwho cannot treat you well or simply realize what hurts you isnt really the ideal partner.

It is good to accept a person with the good and the bad while entering into arelationshipbut it is suicidal to ignore what is unpleasant. When you decide to be with a person it is advisable to weigh the pros and cons. Whereas it is always a good thing to give second and third chances to people, ask yourself if you are being taken for granted because of that. Ask yourself if you need to hide or swallow your true feelings to ensure the smooth weather in yourpartnership. If yes then it certainly isnt all that hunky dory!

Often there have been instances that a person loses all self belief and confidence while in a relationship. While there is always a weaker and a strongerpersonin a bond however it certainly doesnt mean the weaker one is not entitled to feel good or put forth his points. A rapport between two adults seeing each other can only work if together they form a balance without causing one to become too submissive. Endurance in a relationship is a duty of both, not just one. You must remember that being in a relationship is very different from being in an abusive one. Dont get soblinded in love that you fail to see the impending doom.

Thinking about the unpleasant incidents may be hurtful but living through it is equally agonizing. One must ask the question: Is tolerating the abuse worthy of a few moments of love? Sometimes one gets so engrossed in the idea of love and that perfect person that itdoesn'teven dawn on them to what extent they are caught up in a turbulent phase oflife.

Do you cry more than you laugh since you have been with him? Have you transformed into somebody you fail to recognize since the inception of this association? If the answers to these questions are in affirmative then please stop and take a good look at where you are going and why. Remember, your friends and family will always be there when you need them. There are people who satiate their egos by hurting theirpartners. You certainly do not need them in yourlife.

They say that falling in love is to lose yourself into the other person. But how can that be right? Should you be allowed to be yourself too when you are giving that liberty to your partner? Ask yourself some hard hitting questions; dont take up a lifetime of pain for a few moments of delight.

True Love is said to be blissful. It transforms yourlifefor the better and makes you more comfortable in your skin. So if your relationship makes you feel anything apart from that, contemplate if its time for you to remove that blindfold.

Are you stillblindin love?

GARVA ( WOMB) GRIHA OF TEMPLE..

In India, the innermost part of the temple is called GARBHA, womb very meaningfully. Where the deity of the temple sits, the innermost shrine is called GARBHA the womb. In olden days Temples were built by Mystics not just by stone cutters. There is a bigger mystical science behind than you can imagine.

Whatever I am saying applies similarly to Churches and Mosques, I am taking temples as an example because I have grown around them.

Today let me share two important components of Indian temples

Garbha: Which is where deity of the temple is kept and its the most sacred place of the temple.

Second is,

Temple bell:Most of the old temples have large bell at the entrance of the temple and you need to ring it before you enter temple.

Let me start with temple bells first. A Temple bell is another scientific phenomena; it is not just your ordinary metal. It is made of various metals including cadmium, lead, copper, zinc, nickel, chromium and. manganese. The proportion at which each one of them mixed is real science behind a bell. Each of these bells is made to produce such a distinct sound that it can create unity of your left and right brain. The moment you ring that bell, bell produces sharp but lasting sound which lasts for minimum of seven seconds in echo mode good enough to touch your seven healing centers or chakras in your body.

The moment bell sound happens your brain is emptied of all thoughts. Invariably you will enter state of Trans state where you are very receptive. This Trans state is the one with awareness. You are so occupied in mind that only way to awaken you is with a Shock! And trust me Bell works as Anti-dote to your mind.

Before you enter temple to awake you and prepare you for taste of awareness is the real reason behind temple bell.In other words it helps to ring to wake yourself Up! To an extent Fragrant generators, Low light lamps all form Ecosystem to create awareness. Ill brief you some other day about mysteries behind each one of them

Bells had other reasons also, as most of the old temples never had doors and were located near hills and forest there would have been distinct possibilities for animals, Insects, birds to take shelter. But bell sound doesnt allow any of the living creatures to sustain inside for a long time. So dont be surprised if you find Old temples still brimming with energy inside with less dust, no sign of insects or animals.

As soon as you come close to innermost center of the temple you come to Garbha Gudi or Womb center Or Place of origin. Now to be honest deity is an excuse to create effect on you. Deities work as your focal point. Idea is to remind you of your womb and your nine months.Idea here is to remind you of true potential! Idea of Garbha is to reminnd you of your inner source!

Womb also signifies tremendous potential of a child when he is born. As Zen say everyone is born as a Buddha But you just forget it.

And this is what Jesus says be a child like to enter heavenhe says be child like in potential not childish which you end up becoming mostly.

In silence your thoughts have tremendous potential to become reality. This is why people say My prayers have come true.

Indeed every prayer has potential to come true provided you prayed in deep awareness. My friend Deepak Chopra in his book calls this phenomenon as Law of intention This is also known as synchronicity.

In deep silence your silent consciousness is ripened field. But in this ripened field , your mind enters and creates evil ways as you pray for money, house, wife and other selfish needs. All your wishes are too self-centered and it can create conflicts with other people wishes. Other people are also asking for money wife and everything you are asking.

So mystics found another way of encountering this issue. In order to create more cosmic thoughts and avoid mind created local thoughts they created Mantras In origin the very reason of mantras is to create certain vibrations in you. Mantras were created with intention to override your thoughts and include more Cosmic thoughts.

Thats why in temples they tell children not to speak but listen to mantras! But the Priests have forgotten the art of throwing energy into words or Mantras. That secret art of saying Mantras is a separate topic for another day.

Now coming back to deity, Deity itself has no meaning unless you create. Deity is used more as a focal point or to attack your Mind.

But then larger idea behind the mystics has been lost partly due to priests and partly due unawareness. Mystics Idea of temple was to keep alive the flame of Meditation or awareness in you. Temples are used as reminders to your inner source.

Temples doest belong to any religion, temples doest belong to Hindus. Temple doest belong to any beliefs. Temple is just a Roadside rest place for people on path. Churches, Mosques also serve you same way. All roads leads to just one place!.

Once you have deepest experience of Meditation then you forget temple and move on: Then You create temple inside you.Then you forget bell and create sound of silence inside you.Thats the sign of yogi or saint. Saint is the one who has dropped all worshiping places and found one in his heart.

Next time when you visit Temple, Church or a Mosque dont focus on your prayers and dream wishes. Leave God alone for sometime and go deep inside. Get taste of awareness and get taste consciousness. Suddenly you will find godliness inside you.

DIET CHARTS FOR GENERAL HEALTH

Being overstressed and under-rested, and thinking that there are a few simple steps that can be followed to stay healthy, brings to mind Cecile B DeMille’s famous quip: “It is impossible for us to break the law. We can only break ourselves against the law.”

Experts agree that the key to healthy eating is the time-tested advice of balance, variety and moderation. In short, this means eating a wide variety of foods without getting too many calories, or too much of any one nutrient.

If you know someone – or, you are one of those busy executives – whose life circumstances are such that you just do not have the “luxury” of getting adequate physical and emotional rest on a regular basis, please consider sharing the following 20 diet tips [better still - practice them!]:

1. Find out how many calories you need

   It is not as easy as it sounds, but it is very important for an individual to know his/her caloric requirement [approx 1,800 calories/day] – on the basis of which reduction in calories for weight loss, weight management, or weight gain, can be pursued. Speak to a dietician or nutritionist who can help you decide on what suits your needs best.

2. Be a fan of fruits and vegetables

   Fruits and vegetables are packed with beneficial fibre, vitamins, and anti-oxidants. They fill up your stomach quickly, so you feel full just as quickly. They are also low in calories and help to keep your calorie count low. Take at least 3-4 servings of fruit and 4-5 servings of vegetables each day. Snack on apples, melons, peaches, carrots, or green and red pepper strips. Don’t forget juices – or, a glass of fruit or vegetable juice.

3. Watch for portion-size

   Eat moderate portions. If you keep portion sizes reasonable, it’s easier to eat the foods you want and stay healthy. One serving of pasta means 1/2 cup of cooked pasta. However, most restaurants serve a pasta dish with 4 servings of pasta! You do not need to finish and clean off the plate every time. You can simply ask to take home the leftover.

4. Do not skip meals

   Eating small frequent meals helps to balance your calorie intake throughout the day and also keeps your blood sugar level balanced. Instead of eating three big meals, try to eat 5-6 small meals throughout the day.

5. Eat your breakfast

   “Breaking the fast” from the prior evening is crucial for sustained mental work. The brain’s sole source of energy is glucose, and it has no storage reserves. Eating breakfast has been shown to improve overall attitude, increase concentration and problem-solving ability. In addition, studies show those who eat breakfast typically consume fewer calories and fat compared to those who do not start their day off with a healthy meal. If you aren’t used to eating something in the morning, grab something light like a yogurt and a piece of fruit, or a bowl of oatmeal. Avoid heavy breakfasts – skip high fat meat, deep fried snacks like samosa, batata wada. Choose oatmeal, 100 per cent fruit juice, milk, yogurt, fresh fruit, or high fibre cereal for a great breakfast.

6. Take time for balanced lunch

   Yes, for the busy executive many of your lunches are often something you grabbed out of the pantry and snacked on while working at the computer. Not only is it important to take a break during the day, it is crucial to take time to eat. When you eat at the computer, it becomes unconscious eating. You aren’t paying attention to how much of that food item you are eating and this, in turn, is a quick way to gain weight. It becomes impossible to be conscious of feeling “full” when your mind if focused on work, and not your body. Take some time for yourself to eat a balanced meal during the day. Include some protein, whole grains, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. This will help you to improve your energy and focus during the day as well as keep your weight where you want it.

7. Go for wholesome fresh foods

   If possible, purchase fresh foods and avoid package [processed] and convenient foods such as fast-food. Packaged and convenient foods are often high in sodium and fat content. Many people are amazed that they can easily lose weight by packing a home-cooked lunch to work instead of eating out.

8. Reduce, don’t eliminate certain foods

   Most people eat for pleasure as well as nutrition. Everyone has his or her favourite treats. Simply allow yourself a little indulgence, but watch out for the frequency and the quantity. Having a small treat once in a while can be rewarding to your weight loss experience. Cutting too much of your favourite treats usually leads to an early relapse.
   Choose skim or low-fat dairy products and lean cuts of meat such as flank steak. This can reduce your fat intake significantly. If you love fried chicken, you don’t have to give it up. Just eat it less often. When dining out, share it with a friend; ask for a take-home bag, or a smaller portion.

9. Understand food claims and labels

   A product labelled with a fat-free claim does not mean that it is low in calories. Similarly, a product labelled as low-sugar or low-carb does not mean it is low in fat or calories. Always read the nutrition label on the packaging, or ask an expert.

10. Watch for sugary drinks and relinquish caffeine

    Juices, pop, cream and sugar in your coffee or tea all add up. Opt for drinking at least 8-10 glasses of water a day. In addition to providing hydration to your body, it will also help you feel full.
    Starting your day off with a pot of coffee is not exactly a balanced breakfast, but it is likely the most common. People are more dependent than ever on caffeine to provide them a “perk” of energy. The downside is that’s all it is providing – a quick perk. The reality is caffeine gives you small bursts of energy and then you crash to an energy low which leaves you to need even more. Caffeine also pulls fluid from your cells, which can cause mild dehydration and contributes to the three o’clock slump. Symptoms of mild dehydration are: fatigue, lack of concentration, irritability, anxiety, and mild headache. hmm, sounds familiar? Stick to one caffeinated beverage a day and work on drinking more water

11. Keep a food journal

    Writing a daily food journal helps you pin-point your eating pattern and enable you to easily modify it.

12. Exercise

    Most authorities recommend 30-40 minutes of physical activity a day to stay healthy. Also, try adding weight-bearing exercises at least two times a week. This will help burn some of the unwanted calories.

13. Eat a variety of nutrient-rich foods

    You need more than 40 different nutrients for good health, and no single food supplies them all. Your daily food selection should include bread and other whole-grain products, fruits, vegetables, dairy products, meat, poultry, fish, and other protein foods. How much you should eat depends on your calorie needs. Speak to a dietitian or nutritionist for individualised needs.

14. Go for the grain

    Nutrition experts recommend 6-11 daily servings of grains, including bread, rice, cereal and pasta. To reach this goal, you can include plenty of grain-based snacks that are low in fat and calories, like crackers, pretzels, and fat-free flavoured rice cakes.

15. Balance your food choices over time

    Not every food has to be “perfect.” When eating a food high in fat, salt or sugar, select other foods that are low in these ingredients. If you miss out on any food group one day, make up for it the next. Your food choices over several days should fit together into a healthy pattern.

16. Know your diet pitfalls

    To improve your eating habits, you first have to know what’s wrong with them. Write down everything you eat for three days. Check your list with the rest of these 20 tips. Do you add a lot of butter, creamy sauces or salad dressings? Rather than eliminating these foods, just cut back your portions. Are you getting enough fruits and vegetables? If not, you may be missing out on vital nutrients.

17. Make changes gradually

    Just as there are no “miracle foods,” or easy answers to a healthy diet, don’t expect to totally revamp your eating habits overnight. Changing too much, too soon, can get in the way of success. Begin to remedy excesses or deficiencies with modest changes that can add up to positive, life-long eating habits. For instance, if you don’t like the taste of skim milk, try low-fat. Eventually, you may find you like skim, too.

18. Remember, foods are not good or bad

    Select foods based on your total eating patterns, not whether any individual food is “good” or “bad.” Don’t feel guilty if you love foods such as apple pie, potato chips, candy bars, or ice-cream. Eat them in moderation, and choose other foods to provide the balance and variety that are vital to good health.

19. Don’t forget dairy

    Include snacks from milk, yogurt and cheese group. To help meet your daily calcium requirements, choose two to three servings of dairy products each day. Snack on low-fat yogurt, or have a low-fat or skim milk shake.

20. Start small

    You’re not going on a diet. Rather, you’re changing the way you eat for the rest of your life. So, there’s no need to cut out dietary fat – all at once. You might start by switching to milk instead of cream in your coffee, or low-fat mayonnaise on your sandwiches and so on.

In addition to this, check your height and weight. Or, use a chart to see if you are overweight for your height. Your body mass index [BMI] is the weight in kilogram divided by the height in meter-squared: remember, it should be below 25.

Most important: follow the Three As in life – adjust, adopt, accommodate.

MANAGEMENT COURSE ..LESSON

Lesson 1 :    A priest offered a Nun a lift. She got in and crossed her legs, forcing her gown to reveal a leg. The priest nearly had an accident. After controlling the car, he stealthily slid his hand up her leg... The nun said, 'Father, remember Psalm 129?' The priest removed his hand. But, changing gears, he let his hand slide up her leg again. The nun once again said, 'Father, remember Psalm 129?' The priest apologised 'Sorry sister but the flesh is weak.' Arriving at the convent, the nun sighed heavily and went on her way. On his arrival at the church, the priest rushed to look up Psalm 129. It said, 'Go forth and seek, further up, you will find glory.' Moral of the story: If you are not well informed in your job, you might miss a great opportunity. Lesson 2 :     A sales rep, an administration clerk, and the manager are walking to lunch when they find an antique oil lamp. They rub it and a Genie comes out. The Genie says, 'I'll give each of you just one wish.' 'Me first! Me first!' says the admin clerk.. 'I want to be in the Bahamas , driving a speedboat, without a care in the world.' Poof! She's gone. 'Me next! Me next!' says the sales rep. 'I want to be in Hawaii , relaxing on the beach with my personal masseuse, an endless supply of Pina Coladas, and the love of my life.' Poof! He's gone. 'OK, you're up,' the Genie says to the manager. The manager says, 'I want those two back in the office after lunch.' Moral of the story: Always let your boss have the first say. Lesson 3     An eagle was sitting on a tree resting, doing nothing. A small rabbit saw the eagle and asked him, 'Can I also sit like you and do nothing?' The eagle answered: 'Sure, why not.' So, the rabbit sat on the ground below the eagle and rested. All of a sudden, a fox appeared, jumped on the rabbit and ate it. Moral of the story:To be sitting and doing nothing, you must be sitting very, very high up.  Lesson 4  A turkey was chatting with a bull. 'I would love to be able to get to the top of that tree' sighed the turkey, 'but I haven't got the energy.'    'Well, why don't you nibble on some of my droppings?' replied the bull. It's full of nutrients.' The turkey pecked at a lump of dung, and found it actually gave him enough strength to reach the lowest branch of the tree. The next day, after eating some more dung, he reached the second branch.. Finally after a fourth night, the turkey was proudly perched at the top of the tree. He was promptly spotted by a farmer, who shot him out of the tree. Moral of the story:   Bull Shit might get you to the top, but it won't keep you there.  Lesson 5  A little bird was flying south for the winter. It was so cold the bird froze and fell to the ground into a large field.  While he was lying there, a cow came by and dropped some dung on him. As the frozen bird lay there in the pile of cow dung, he began to realize how warm he was. The dung was actually thawing him out! He lay there all warm and happy, and soon began to sing for joy. A passing cat heard the bird singing and came to investigate. Following the sound, the cat discovered the bird under the pile of cow dung, and promptly dug him out and ate him. Moral of the story: (1) Not everyone who shits on you is your enemy. (2) Not everyone who gets you out of shit is your friend. (3) And when you're in deep shit, it's best to keep your mouth shut!

NAVA DURGA

1st Day : Mata Shailputri : वंदे वाद्द्रिछतलाभाय चंद्रार्धकृतशेखराम | वृषारूढां शूलधरां शैलपुत्री यशस्विनीम्‌ || Vande Vaadidra Chhatalaabhaaya Chandrardh Kritshekhraam Vrisharudhaam Shooldharaam Shaiputri Yashsvineem. Durga Pooja ke pratham din Mata Shailputri ki pooja-vandana is mantra dwara ki jati hai. Maa Durga ki pahli swaroopa aur Shailraaj Himalaya ki putri Shailputri ke pooja ke sath hi Durga Pooja aarambh ho jata hai. Navratra poojan ke pratham din kalash sthapna ke sath inki hi pooja aur aradhna ki jati hai. Mata Shailputri ka vahan Vrishabh hai, unke dahine hath me Trishul aur bayen hath me Kamal ka pushp hai. Navratra ke is pratham din ki upasna me Yogi apne man ko ‘Mooladhar’ chakra me sthit karte hain aur yahi se unki yog sadhna prarambh hota hai. Pauranik kathanusar Maa Shailputri apne purv janm me Prajapati Daksh ke ghar kanya roop me utpann huyi thi. Us samay mata ka naam Sati tha aur inka vivaah Bhagvan Shankar se hua tha. Ek bar Prajapati Daksh ne yagya aarambh kiya aur sabhi devtaao ko aamantrit kiya parantu Bhagvan Shiv ko aamantran nahi diya. Apne maa aur bahno se milne ko aatur Maa Sati bina nimantran ke hi jab pita ke ghar pahunchi to unhe waha apne aur Bholenath ke prati tiraskar se bhara bhav mila. Maa Sati is apmaan ko sahan nahi kar saki aur wahi yogaagni dwara khud ko jalakar bhasm kar diya aur agle janm me Shailraj Himalaya ke ghar putri roop me janm liya. Shailraaj Himalaya ke ghar janm lene ke karan Maa Durga ke is pratham swaroop ko Shailputri kaha jata hai. -----------------------------------------                            2nd Day : Maa Brahmacharini                                                                                                            दधाना करपद्माभ्यामक्षमालाकमण्डलू ।                                      देवी प्रसीदतु मयि ब्रह्मचारिण्यनुत्तमा ॥ ब्रह्मचारिणी हैं बुद्धि और विद्या की देवी : Maa Brahmacharini is the second manifestation of Maa Durga who is worshippied on the second day of Navratri. Here word “Brahm” refers to “Tapa”. So Brahmcharini means Tapa Charini – The one who perform Tapa or penance. It is Said that the “Vedas”, “Tatva” & “Tapa” are synonyms of word “Brahm”. The form of Brahmacharini is tremendously effulgent and extremely majestic. Maa Brahmacharini - The Second Manifestation of Maa Durga She holds a rosary in her right hand and Kamandalu in her left. SHE personifies love and loyalty. Mata Bhramacharni is store-house of knowledge and wisdom. Rudraksha is HER most adorned ornament. When she was incarnated as the daughter of Himalaya, then influenced by the instructions of Devrishi Narada, she practiced very hard penances in order to obtain Lord Shiva as her divine consort. Due to her unearthly penances she was termed as Brahmacharini. She spent one thousand years, only on fruits and beet-roots. One hundred years she spent only by eating leafy vegetables. For a sufficient perfiod of time observing complete fast she suffered tormenting of nature like torrential rains and scorching sun and biting cold, under the open sky. After such a difficult routine she lived only on dry Bilva pattaras (leaves) fallen on the ground for three thousand years. She kept her engrossed for twenty-four hours in worshiping Lord Shiva. After that she gave up eating even these dry leaves. For several thousand years she went on without any food and water. Because she gave up eating dry Bilva leaves so she was known to be Aparna as one of her epithets. After the hardship of penance for several thousand years her body became extremely lean and thin. She was reduced to skeleton only. Her penance, sharpened as it was, caused great disturbance in all the three worlds. The whole universe was shaken. The Gods, the Rishis, the Siddhas, the Munis all eulogized her penance as an unprecedented virtuous action. Ultimately Lord Brahma through an oracle addressed her and said to her in a very pleasant manner-O Goddess, so far nobody has ever practiced such an austere penance. Only you could have done it. This wonderful deed is being praised in all the four quarters. Your desire would be fulfilled. You will decidedly get Lord Shiva as your divine consort. Now stop your penance and go home. Your father would be shortly coming to take you back. Brahmacharini Durga is capable of providing unending benefits. By worshiping her the person inculcates penancing, renouncing, dispassion, ethical conduct and restraint in himself. Even in the most critical periods of struggle the mind remains unshaken and he does not deviate from the path of duty. By the grace of mother Brahmacharini he gets success and victory always and everywhere. On the second day of Navratri Durga Pooja it is the Brahmacharini aspect of mother Goddess Durga that is worshipped. This way the mind of the striver moving upward is established in Swadhisthana Chakra. The Yogi, who makes his mind stay in this Chakra gets the devotion and blessings of the Goddess. ॐ नमो भगवती ब्रह्मचारणी सर्वजग मोहिनी, सर्वकार्य करनी, मम निकट संकट हरणी, मम मनोरथ पूर्णी, मम चिंता निवारानी, ॐ भगवती ब्रह्मचारणी नमो स्वाहा! ----------------------------------------------------- 3rd Day : Maa Chandraghanta पिण्डज प्रवरारुढ़ा चण्डकोपास्त्र कैर्युता | प्रसादं तनुते मह्यं चंद्र घंष्टेति विश्रुता || Pindaj Pravaraarudha Chandkopastra Kairyutaa Prasaadam Tanute Mahyam Chandram Ghanshteti Vishruta. Navratra ke tisre din Mata Chandraghanta ki pooja-vandna is mantra dwara ki jatia hi Maa Durga ki 9 shaktiyo ki tisri swaroopa Bhagvati Chandraghanta ki pooja Navratra ke tisre din ki jati hai. Mata ke mathe par ghante aakar ka ardhchandra hai, jis karan inhe Chandraghanta kaha jata hai. Inka roop param shantidayak aur kalyankari hai. Mata ka sharir swarn ke saman ujjaval hai. Inka vahan Singh hai aur inked as hath hain jo ki vibhinn prakar ke astra-shastra se sushobhit rahte hain. Singh par savar Maa Chandraghanta ka roop yuddha ke liye uddhat dikhata hai aur unke ghante ki prachand dhvani se asur aur rakshas bhaybhit karte hain. Bhagvati Chandraghanta ki upasana karne se upasak aadhyatmik aur aatmik shakti prapt karta hai aur jo shraddhalu is din shraddha evam bhakti purvak Durga Saptsati ka path karta hai, wah sansar me yash, kirti evam samman ko prapt karta hai. Mata Chandraghanta ki pooja-archana bhakto ko sabhi janmo ke kashto aur paapo se mukt kar islok aur parlok me kalian pradan karti hai aur Bhagvati apne dono hatho se sadhko ko chirayu, such sampda aur rogo se mukt hone ka vardan deti hai. Manushya ko nirantar Mata Chandraghanta ke pavitra vigrah ko dhyam me rakhte huye sadhna ki or agrasar hone ka prayas karna chahiye aur is din mahilaon ko ghar me bulakar aadar samman purvak unhe bhojan karana chahiye aur kalash ya mandir ki ghanti unhe bhent swaroop pradan karna chahiye. Isase bhakt par sada Bhagvati ki kripa drishti bani rahti hai. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4th day : Maa Kushmanda सुरासम्पूर्णकलशं रुधिराप्लुतमेव च । दधाना हस्तपद्माभ्यां कूष्माण्डा शुभदास्तु मे  Mata Kushmanda is the fourth aspect among Navadurga, nine Goddesses worshipped during Durga Navratra. Goddess Kushmanda is worshipped on the fourth day (Chaturthi or Chavithi) of Navaratri pooja. The word Kushmanda represents the cosmic egg which created the Universe. Goddess Kushmanda created the Universe with the cosmic egg when even the time was not there. Mother Goddess Kushmanda has a glowing face and her body shines in golden complexion. Kushmanda has eight arms, hence also named as Ashtabhuji. In her four arms, she carries weapons like bow, arrow, discus and mace. In other three hands, she holds a lotus, a rosary and a kamandal. In remaining hand, she carries a jar of nectar which gives health and long life to her devotees. Vehicle of Goddess Kushmanda is a lion. Rosery represents her power to bless her devotees with Ashtasiddhi (8 types of studies or wisdom sources) and Navanidhi (9 types of wealth). ------------------------------------------------------------ 5th Day : Maa Skandamata सिंहासना गता नित्यं पद्माश्रि तकरद्वया | शुभदास्तु सदा देवी स्कन्दमाता यशस्विनी || Singhasana Gata Nityam Padmashri Takaradwaya Shubhdaastu Sada Devi Skandmata Yashasvinee. Navratra ke panchave din Maa Skandmata ki pooja is mantra dwara ki jani chahiye. Samast ichchhao kop urn karnewali aur Aadishakti Durga ki panchavi swaroopa Bhagvati Skandmata ki pooja Navratra ke panchve din ki jati hai. Bhagvan Skand ki mata hone ke karan Shri Durga ke is swaroop ko Skandmata kaha jata hai. Mata ke vigrah me Bhagvan Skand baal roop me inke god me baithe huye hain. Mata ki char bhujayen hain, jinem dahine taraf ki upar wali se Shri Skand ko pakdi huyi hain. Inka varn purntah shubh hai aur ye kamal ke aasan par viraajmaan rahti hain, jis karan mata ko Padmasana Devi bhi kaha jata hai. Aasthavan bhakto me manyata hai ki yadi koi shraddha aur bhakti purvak Maa Skandmata ki pooja karta hai to uski sari manokamnayen purn ho jati hai aur use is mrityulok me param shanti ka anubhav hone lagta hai. Mata ki kripa se uske liye moksh ked war svayamev sulabh ho jata hai. Pauranik kathanusar Bhagvati Skandmata hi Parvatraj Himalaya ki putri Parvati hai. Mahadev ki patni hone ke karan Maheshwar aur apne gaur varn ke karan Gauri ke naam se bhi mata ka poojan kiya jata hai. Mata ko apne putra se adhik sneh hai, jis karan unhe inke putra Skand ke naam se hi pukara jata hai. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 6th Day : Maa Katyayni चंद्र हासोज्ज वलकरा शार्दू लवर वाहना | कात्यायनी शुभं दद्या देवी दानव घातिनि || Chandra Haasojja Walakara Shaardu Lavar Vahana Katyaayanee Shubham Dadya Devi Daanav Ghatini. Navratra ke chhathe din is mantra se Mata Katyayani ki pooja vandana karna chahiye. Navratri ke chhathe din Aadishakti Maa Durga ki shashtham roop aur asuro tatha dushto ka nash karnewali Bhagvati Katyayani ki pooja ki jati hai. Markandaye Puran ke anusar jab Rakshasraaj Mahishasur ka atyachar badh gaya, tab devtaao ke karya siddh karne ke liye Devi Maa ne Maharshi Katyaan ke tapasya se prasann hokar unke ghar putrid roop me janm liya. Chunki Maharshi Katyan ne sarvpratham apne putri roopi chaturbhuji devi ka poojan kiya, jis karan mata ka naam Katyayani pada. Manyata hai ki yadi koi shraddha bhav se Navratri ke chhathe din Mata Katyayani ki pooja aradhna karta hai to use Aagya Chakra ki prapti hoti hai. Wah bhulok me rahte huye bhi alaukik tez se yukt hota hai aur uske sare rog, shok, santaap, bhay hamesha ke liye vinasht ho jate hain. Manyata hai ki Bhagvan Shri Krishna ko pati roop me prapt karne ke liye Rukmini ne inki aradhna kit hi, jis karan Maa Katyayani ko man ki shakti kaha gaya hai. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- 7th day : Maa Kalratri एकवेणी जपाकर्णपूरा नग्ना खरास्थिता । लम्बोष्टी कर्णिकाकर्णी तैलाभ्यक्तशरीरिणी ॥ वामपादोल्लसल्लोहलताकण्टकभूषणा । वर्धनमूर्धध्वजा कृष्णा कालरात्रिर्भयङ्करी ॥ Maa Kalaratri is the seventh Shakti of Maa Durga. The seventh day of Navratri pooja is dedicated to Durga Kalratri. This is the most violent form of Godess Durga. Kalaratri is the one of the fiercest forms of Durga and her appearance itself evokes fear. This form of Goddess is believed to be the destroyer of all demon entities. Kalaratri means the One who is “the Death of Kaal”. Here Kaal is dedicated as time & death. Kalaratri is the one who destroys ignorance and removes darkness. This form primarily depicts that life also has dark side – the violent Mother Nature and creates havoc and removes all dirt. She is also known as Shubhankari.In this form Goddess Kalratri killed Raktabeej. Raktabeej was a demon who could multiply from every drop of his blood which fell on the ground. The Goddess Kaalratri killed him by licking the blood before it could reach the ground and hence conquered him. She endows her devotees with calm and courage. The complexion of Maa Kalaratri is like dark night with bountiful hair and has four hands. The left two hands holds a cleaver and a torch, and the right two are in the mudras of “giving” and “protecting”. She has necklace is so shining like thunder. She has three eyes which emanate rays like lightning. Flames appear through her nostrils when she inhales or exhales air. Her mount is donkey. Blue,Red, White color should be used to wear on this day. Appearance of Maa Kalratri is very dangerous. But she always gives good fruits. So devoters should not get afraid of her. Her worship on 7th day of Navratri has very much importavnce to yogies & sadhak. Yogis & sadhaks penance on Shahtra Chakra on this day. For the worshipers on this day door opens of every siddhi in universe. in universe. Just by remembering Maa ghost ran away. If any negative effect is arising due to a planets than by worshiping on this day bad effects vanishes. Any type of fear goes away. Subhankari Mata always give ‘Subh’ good fruits. True faith restraint & concentration is necessary for worship. --------------------------------------------------------------- 8th day : Maa MahaGauri श्वेते वृषे समारुढा श्वेताम्बरधरा शुचिः । महागौरी शुभं दघान्महादेवप्रमोददा ॥ सदा सुख और शांति देती हैं महागौरी- Maa Durga is worshiped as Maa Mahagauri on eighth Navratri. Mahagauri is the eight form of Goddess Shakti. Her color is white. Whiteners is shown by shell, moon etc. Mahagauri means one clean and bright like a ray of lightning. Maa MahaGauri Pooja on Ashtami in Navratri Festival Maa MahaGauri Pooja on Ashtami in Navratri Festival This is the form of Goddess Parvati when she did penance to get Lord Shiva as her husband. It is believed that due to the intense Tapas performed by her without moving caused soil and dust to collect on her body. Lord Shiva cleaned her with water from Ganga that’s why she get whiteners as shine & got the name as Maha Gauri.Purity is depicted in this form of Durga. The Goddess is in the form of eight-year old child with complexion as fair as a conch, moon and jasmine. Her clothes and ornaments are white and pure. She has three eyes and four arms. Her right upper hand is in the pose of allaying fear and right lower hand holds a trident in it. The left upper hand holds a tambourine and the lower one is in the pose of blessing. All sins of devotees are washed away due to her worship. Her power is unfailing and instantly fruitful. The eighth day of Navratri Pooja has much importance. Durga Ashtami Puja is held in many parts of India. If human worship after fast he/she gets fruits immediately. In front of Portrait of Goddess Mother as in front of Parvati Mata in Lord Shiva temple one can worship Maa MahaGauri. She appeared in the form of Maa Ambaji, Maa Kalika, Maa Bahucharaji etc. She stays in devotes heart & gives best fruits if we worship any farm. Wearing Red,Saffron,Yellow,White,Pink color would be auspicious for the devotees on this day. Maa Mahagauri can be seen in a temple at Kankhal near pilgrim center Haridwar, India --------------------------------------------------------------- 9th Day : Maa Siddhdaatri सिद्ध गन्धर्व यज्ञद्यैर सुरैर मरैरपि | सेव्यमाना सदा भूयात्‌ सिद्धिदा सिद्धि दायिनी ||\ Siddh Gandharv Yagyadhair Surair Marairapi Sevyamana Sada Bhooyaat Siddhida Siddhi Dayanee. Navratra ke antim din Mata Siddhidatri ki aradhana is mantra se karna chahiye. Navratra ke antim din Devi Durga ki navi shakti aur bhakto ko sab prakar ki siddhiya pradan karne wali Maa Siddhidatri ki pooja ka vidhan hai. Markandeya Puran ke anusar Mata Anima, Mahima, Garima, Laghima, Prapti, Prakamya, Eeshitva aur Vashitva ye aath prakar ki siddhiya pradan karnewali hain, jis karan inka naam Siddhdatri pada. Apne laukik roop me Maa Siddhdatri char bhujaon wali hain. Inka vahan Singh hai. Ye Kamal ke pushp par aasin hain. Aasthavan bhakto ki manyata hai ki is din shastriya vidhi-vidhan aur purn nishta ke sath mata ki upasana karne par upasak ko sabhi prakar ki siddhiya prapti hoti hai. Devi Puran ke anusar Bhagvan Shiv ne inki kirpa se hi in siddhiyo kop rapt kiya tha aur unki anukampa se hi Bhagvan Shiv ka aadha sharir devi ka hua tha, jis karan Bholenath Ardhnarishwar naam se vikhyat huye.