𝑨𝒎𝒎𝒖'𝒔 𝑴𝒖𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔!

Underlying principle in a Hindu temple is the belief that all things are one, that everything is connected. Ancient temples welcome you through 64-grid or 81-grid mathematically structured spaces, a network of art, pillars with carvings and statues that display and celebrate the four important and necessary principles of human life – the pursuit of artha (prosperity, wealth), kama (pleasure, love), dharma (virtues, ethical life) and moksha (release, self-knowledge). At the center of the temple, typically below and sometimes above or next to the idol, is mere hollow space with no decoration, symbolically representing  Purusa , the Supreme Principle, the sacred Universal, one without form, which is omnipresent, connects everything, and is the essence of everyone. A Hindu temple is meant to encourage reflection, facilitate purification of one's mind, and trigger the process of inner realization within.  The specific process is left to the devotee's school of belief....

My mother was the pillar of my life, my source of strength, wisdom, and unconditional love. She was an extraordinary woman, full of grace, resilience, and quiet courage. Every value I hold, every strength I have, and every good part of who I am today is a reflection of her guidance and love. To honor her memory and the beautiful life she lived, I created this photo story. This is a tribute to a remarkable woman whose legacy continues to live on in my heart and in all the lives she touched. My mother (9 years) sitting extreme left with her family   My mother was born on January 12, 1930, in Kozhikode, Kerala, to Parappil Rukmini Amma and Ullattil Karunakara Menon. Her father, a progressive and principled man, served as an officer under the British government and believed deeply in the value of education, especially for his daughters, which was uncommon for the time. She grew up in a loving household with two sisters and a brother, who would later become one of the earliest me...

Every home in India from time immemorial has a tradition of lighting an oil lamp at dawn and at dusk known as Deepaaradhana. At homes some people burned lamps in front of God, while others lit lamps in front of Tulasi plant, in front of great rivers like River ganges and in some homes, individuals light the lamps either at dawn or at dusk. The majority of people view performing Deepaaradhana as an everyday routine that is passed through generations, yet like with everything else in Sanatana Dharma, there is a strong reason behind it. The most significant celebration that takes place in every temple is also the Deeparadhana.   Before the idol, modest lamps with a single flame to pyramidal towers with seven levels are waved, followed by the waving of camphor. Conches are blown and all of the bells sound when the deepam is presented to the idol, drawing everyone's attention to it. One light is typically lit in the sanctum sanctorum during the day, making it completely dark. How...