The Nepali culture of Sanatan Sanskriti is so beautiful, logical, historical, spiritual, and scientific. A nation’s culture can be found deep within its citizens’ souls. It is crystal clear from the sheer number of rituals and practices we have followed for so many years.
1. First, paying homage to Shri Ganesh
Lord Shiva and Mother Parvati are the parents of the First Lord Ganesh. He drives a mouse and is powerful and divine. On a human body, he has an elephant head. People all over the world chant Lord Ganesh’s name because they believe he can get rid of obstacles.
Before beginning any auspicious event or activity, we pray to Lord Ganesh. You ask, “Why do we do this?” The clay-sculpted figurines absorb the beneficial items that are offered to Lord Ganesha’s murti, which contain medicinal properties. The murti has the ability to stimulate the human nervous system, instilling a belief that the Lord will abundantly grant the prayer’s requests.
Parvati created the figurine out of dirt, which represents ignorance, and Lord Shiva, which represents peace and knowledge. In order to remove ignorance from one’s life and allow knowledge to enter, Lord Shiva cut off the head of a boy and replaced it with an elephant’s.
The head of an elephant represents both gyan, or wisdom and knowledge, and karma shakti, or strength in action. They do not encounter obstacles in their path, just like elephants do. We ask Lord Ganesh to instill these qualities in us when we worship him so that we can easily overcome challenges.
2. Greeting by joining the palms together
The word “Namaste” or “Namaskaar,” which means “Namaste,” comes from the Sanskrit language. The words “nama” mean “bow,” “ajm” means “I,” and “te” means “you.”
“I bow to you” is the translation here. Namaskaar, which means “bow” and “doing” in the same way, describes the act of greeting people. As a result, Namaskaar is said to have a more sattvic quality than Namaste.
We usually say “namaste” when we say hello to someone or when we take something.
It aids in the formation of a spiritual connection between the first and second persons. Namaskaar is a wonderful way to show someone you care and respect them.
During the COVID-19 epidemic, Namaste was emphasized everywhere. Namaste was adopted as a greeting by people all over the world. Even though the Japanese bow and wave their hands are a common non-contact greeting, Namaste has a spiritual foundation when done correctly.
3. The significance of Early waking up
“One is healthy, wealthy, and wise when they go to bed early and get up early.” This is a phrase that is used a lot in Hindu culture. But why is it so important to sleep well and get up early? Why is it that Hinduism tells us to get up early?
Dinacharya is the name of the daily routine in Sanskrit. “Din” and “acharya” both mean “follow” or “close to.” Dinacharya is the ideal daily routine because it takes into account the natural cycle and the routine that is followed in the early morning, which helps set the tone for the day.
A person’s sense of discipline is enhanced when they adhere to a daily routine, which is essential for the effective operation of their mind and body.
4. Providing water to the Sun as it first rose.
A rare sight is Surya Arghya, or the practice of offering water to the sun.
The scientific justification for the practice comes from this. While gazing down at the sun’s rays as it falls, you should gently pour the water from the Kalash. Scientific evidence demonstrates that this practice has numerous significant advantages.
When sunlight passes through water, seven colors that look like rainbows emerge.
The body can use the energy from these seven tones to its fullest capacity. The seven colors the rays produce are also in sync with the colors of our seven chakras.
With this energy, the three Doshas of our body can be balanced, preventing illness. This also makes it easier to see and think clearly, which is beneficial for health. This practice helps you become more disciplined in your life because it makes you get up earlier and gives you more time in the day. All energy originates in the sun. If the planet does not receive sunlight, there will be no life there. As a result, sunrise is the ideal time to take in the sun’s rays.
5. The Importance of Practicing Puja
The word Puja is a Sanskrit word that in English can be depicted as honor,
love, worship, veneration, or respect. Simply put, it is an offering to God in which you declare your love and unwavering devotion to him or her. You will experience happiness and inner peace as a result, which will allow you to reflect on a variety of topics and bring a state of stillness to your mind and soul for the time being.
You can perform Lakshmi Puja, Surya Puja, Ganesh Puja, and other types of Puja at home or in temples. The divine powers receive it as a kind of blessing. These prayers or rituals are frequently performed in front of murtis, or images of God, to pray for peace, long life, good health, and the success of all people.
6. How Important It Is to Light a Lamp
Nearly every Hindu household lights a Diya, or clay lamp, every day, sometimes in front of an altar. Candles or lamps may be lit at dawn in some homes, while in others, they may be lit both at dawn and dusk. In some homes, lamps may also require constant care.
As an essential component of numerous social customs, a Diya is frequently used in the majority of Hindu festivals, events, and structures. It effectively conveys wisdom, optimism, and prosperity. Diwali is a light festival observed by Dharmic religions. Baked clay or terracotta is what the Diya is made of in its most basic and traditional form. It is lit by a cotton wick and holds ghee or oil made from cow’s milk. The ghee purifies the air. The lamp has significance in all major religions and has been used for a long time. Anything you set your mind to can be accomplished if you believe in yourself. All you need is some gentle instruction from your teacher or Guru.
In addition, it asserts that the world is endowed with a variety of resources, including the sun, stars, and so forth. You shouldn’t, however, rely on them because once they leave, you’ll be empty once more. Instead, focus on developing your instincts and driving forces in order to accomplish your life’s objectives.
7. Why you should worship with Murti
The Sanskrit word “Parmatma” means “the outright or preeminent self.” Let’s go over the reasons why so many Hindus worship Murtis in detail now.
We are of the firm belief that in order to progress through life as human beings, we need a trustworthy and admirable role model. Additionally, a guide who can demonstrate to us how to live our lives in accordance with our Dharma and assist us in working toward the ultimate objective, “Moksha.” Our mind, body, and Atma ultimately experience unrestricted love when we pray to God through our lovely murtis.
8. Give God some food
Hindu culture and custom are based upon interconnections between commitment, feelings, and logical thinking. The term “naivedyam” is used to describe any food that is offered to God before it is eaten. It is likewise known as Bhog or Thal. Before being consumed by the members of the household, every meal that was cooked in a Hindu home was first offered to God in the family’s own mandir for centuries. We still intended to continue this ritual in our own modified ways as time went on and our lives became busier.
According to the scriptures, God consumes food through Vayu tatwa (through the air) when we offer it to Him. As a result of God’s subtle touch, food becomes sacred. Pure blessing from God reveals that the food we eat today is the result of God’s supreme existence or power.
9. Utilization of Panchamrit.
Panchamrit is a sweet drink made of five ingredients that is given as Prasad.
Panch, which means “five,” and Amrit, which means “immortal” or “nectar of the gods,” are the Sanskrit words that give rise to the name. There are five ingredients in traditional Panchamrit recipes: honey, sugar, raw milk, curd (yogurt), and ghee (clarified butter).
Panchamrit is typically consumed at the conclusion of worship or after the puja and is offered to the deity or deities. Each traditional ingredient carries symbolic weight:
Milk symbolizes piety, purity, and a life that ought to be as clean as milk. Honey – unity, sweet speech, powerful Sugar – bliss, sweetness, speaking and behaving sweetly Ghee – victory, knowledge, a symbol of affection has a loving relationship with everyone. Curd – prosperity, progeny, pure, and adopt virtue and make others like us.
10. The Tilak or Chandana’s Motives
Most people are aware of the tilak; Sanatan Dharma says that we will always bother the tilak between the eyebrows. It has been practiced since ancient times, and it is now an important part of Hindu culture. Sandalwood, also known as “Chandan,” is a common component of the tilak because of its scientific properties and the significance it holds for Hindus.
You may have noticed that applying sandalwood tilak has a refreshing aroma and a cooling effect, both of which have the potential to significantly benefit the brain. The tilak is applied to a combination of nerve points on the skin, according to Chinese acupunctural science. These cooling properties shine by reducing headaches and calming the mind. Also, its fragrance advances virtue and mental peacefulness, permitting aficionados to adore in harmony.
The term “chakra” comes from the Sanskrit language and has a significant meaning in ancient Hindu religious texts. For instance, the Vedas mention seven of these energy conduits in the body. The “Ajna,” or third eye, is between the eyebrows. Because this chakra is responsible for the mind’s capacity for concentration and observation, applying tilak to it can activate the third eye and encourage concentration. In contrast, Ayurveda, an Indian healing system that has been around for thousands of years, describes sandalwood as the ultimate sedative. Are you having issues with anxiety, insomnia, or nerve pain? These conditions can be alleviated by applying sandalwood’s tilak to the forehead.
In the end, the Sandalwood Tilak represents more than just religion; It provides relief from exhaustion, stress, and suffering, and the list goes on.
11. Considered sacred are trees and plants
We always hold the belief that God is present in every atom and thing in Sanatan Dharn. regardless of whether the book, the sun, the moon, or the plants are involved. We also perform rituals to worship plants and trees. This is due to a number of scientific reasons.
Humankind has always relied on plants and trees as a source of divine energy. The idea that they are sacred has been passed down from one generation to the next by our ancestors. The worship of trees and nature in general, according to some scholars, predates that of Gods and Goddesses. This could be due to the fact that some trees had medicinal or symbolic meanings.
One such tree is the heavenly Peepal, which is the house of predecessors and the Master Yama (Master of Death) Otherwise called the Bodhi tree. Brahma is said to be represented by the tree’s roots, Vishnu by the trunk, and Shiva by the leaves.
The Ashoka tree, which is associated with Kama Deva (God of Love) and is an evergreen that has beautiful, fragrant flowers, is another example.
The Tulsi plant, like the holy Peepal, is also thought to be lucky. Its leaves are used to worship Lord Vishnu and his many avatars and have medicinal properties that can help treat a variety of ailments. Hindu households have typically worshipped and cared for a Tulsi plant on a daily basis, much like they would a murti of God, for many generations. Recent botanical studies have shown that the Tulsi plant takes in other pollutants from the air and adds oxygen to the environment for about 20 hours a day. In a similar vein, Neem leaves are frequently utilized in Ayurvedic medicine due to their therapeutic properties.
In rituals of worship, the large and beautiful leaves of the Banyan (Neem) tree are frequently portrayed. Numerous ancient Indian texts and scriptures mention the Banyan Tree as a symbol of longevity and the divine creator. As a result, the tree and its leaves are never cut, and it is only used for food during times of famine.
12. Cows are viewed as deities by Hindus
People were accustomed to a variety of wild foods and animal flesh as tracker-finders. Anthropologists say that this was the case up until a long time ago. Since then, tracker-finders have settled, which has led to an increase in farming. This change made it possible for human civilization and the expansion and flourishing of society in the cities we know today. One of the main factors was the cow’s presence.
Archaeologists have found numerous crude drawings of cows and bulls carved into stone walls and caves all over the world. Cows must have held a special place in human society and been almost revered by everyone for them to be significant enough to have their images carved into stone.
Hinduism places a high value on all living things, not just humans. In contrast to other animals, the cow is revered for her gentle nature; she produces more milk than her calf needs, and she is happy to share it with humans because, unlike other animals, she does not bite or kill. Since we use her milk to make yogurt, cheese, butter, ghee, ice cream, milk chocolate, and a plethora of other products, they have been elevated to the status of a mother, Gaumata.
She would happily consume dry straw throughout the winter and continue to produce milk. The reverence for cows naturally evolved into the worship of cows during the Vedic era, when cows were an integral part of ashrams and gurukuls because their milk enabled them to produce the ghee and yogurt needed for daily consumption and yagnas and pujas.
The cow dung was and is still used as manure to make fertilizer for farmers, or it is dried and used as fuel (it is still used as a source of biogas to make heat and electricity). Ayurveda has used cow dung and urine for therapeutic purposes, pharmaceutical production, and health benefits for centuries. Hindus have depicted Gaumata with various gods and goddesses residing on various parts of her body, elevating her status to that of the Divine Mother.
13. Motive for Fasting
The purpose of fasting is to cleanse the body and mind and receive divine grace, but it is not a requirement but rather a moral and spiritual act. Fasting is referred to as “Upavaj”m in Hinduism. Upa means “near” and vas means “to stay,” respectively. Consequently, up as a means of remaining in God’s presence. Fasting enables us to focus on God by assisting us in developing control over our faculties and directing our minds to be prepared and settled. The incredible health benefits of fasting, which have been practiced for thousands of years, are beginning to be recognized by modern science.
Hindus discovered and developed the practice of fasting thousands of years ago as a means of increasing life expectancy and quality of life, altering cancer risk, protecting brain cells, and improving hormonal balance.
Fasting causes changes in the levels of certain metabolites, which creates an environment that makes it harder for cancer cells to grow and spread, making it easier to use more effective treatments.
Fasting is healthy because obesity is under control. As a result, the risk of diabetes and heart disease is reduced. By administering fasting, insulin levels, and bad cholesterol levels can be reduced.
Fasting has been shown to improve brain health. When Pranayam (a relaxing workout) is attempted, it contributes to the formation of new synapses, metabolism control, weight loss, and muscle strength.
Hinduism has a number of fasting times. The process of mental and physical detoxification is the essence of fasting. The most widely observed fast is Ekadashi, or the 11th day of the lunar month, which occurs twice a month on the eleventh day of each ascending and descending moon. On this day, lentils, rice, wheat, and other grains are not allowed in this type of fast. Typically, organic foods, milk, dairy products, and some root vegetables are consumed quickly. This is also known as Falahaar, which is a diet high in fruit.
14. Avoid sleeping with your face to the north
Utilizing both science and nature, Vastu Shastra teaches us how to create the ideal living and working environment. Earth is constantly magnetized by the sun’s constant thermal electricity current as it moves from east to west. Vastu Shastra says that because we are always in contact with the Earth, our bodies are also magnetized. Our heads have a north polarity and our legs have a south polarity.
The fundamental law of magnetism states that opposites attract, so the north magnetic pole has a negative polarity. As a result, our bodies and the particles that make them up will be pulled by the Earth. When we sleep facing north, our body’s magnetic field is completely asymmetrical to the Earth’s magnetic field. Numerous issues, including bloodstream issues and bad dreams, can be sparked by this draw of energy.
Therefore, sleeping with your head to the east and in this position is ideal.
This is because the Earth’s surface is continuously warmed by a current of thermal electricity that moves from east to west. By aligning with this energy, the inflammation in our bodies, particularly in the head, is eliminated.
If you only reside in the northern hemisphere, you shouldn’t sleep with your head facing north. You shouldn’t sit down with your head pointing south if you live on the south side of the equator.
One illustration of how strong the natural magnetic field is is when birds migrate.
Earth’s attractive fields, and researchers have discovered that birds can use them as a compass to locate them. in addition to having cells in the bird’s eyes that make it easier for them to see the appealing field. Turtles, bees, and whales also use the Earth’s magnetic field to guide their behavior. The human body must also be affected by the magnetic field if it has such a significant impact on an animal’s life.
15. Place cash in a river
In Hindu culture, coin tossing into rivers is common. Coins are still thrown into wells, rivers, and fountains in many cultures around the world. In some cases, it is done for love and health, while in others, it is done to bring luck or fulfill a wish. There are numerous historical examples of this practice.
Regardless, settlements should have been close to water sources in the past. In addition to providing fertile land for crop production, water was used for drinking and nutrition. Numerous rivers are regarded as the physical manifestations of significant female gods who are also referred to by their names. In Hindu Dharma, Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati are among the seven holy rivers. These blessed streams are frequently the location of pujas because they are regarded as the mother who gives life. Making a daan, or gift, in a mandir is thus similar to throwing a coin into a stream.
Coins made of copper were used in earlier eras. Copper is said to purify water because it is antibacterial and antifungal, so throwing coins in the river would help clarify the water and make it safe to drink. Ayurveda says that drinking water from a copper vessel is good for your health. By adding positive ions to the water, it can help our bodies balance the three doshas (Bata, Kapha, and Pitta). Copper is an essential nutrient, along with other important nutrients.
The vidhya should not be lost to superstition or myth because it is so valuable. It is our responsibility to protect it for many generations to come.
16. Holy fire is used in the Hindu wedding ceremony
No one will ever question the sanctity of marriage. This harmonious relationship is based on love, faith, and companionship. Understanding the significance of the Vivah (marriage) ceremony rituals is prudent. The Hindu wedding is full of tradition, and the ceremonies are essential to the couples’ and families’ way of life.
In many societies, both the lady and prepare’s families play out a puja. Ganesh Puja marks the beginning of the event. Family members pray to Lord Ganesh to remove obstacles from the couple’s marriage by lighting a diya, a small fire lamp. The couple can sit on thrones or pillows in the mandap. As an observer of the ceremony, the fire is encouraged in the mandap’s focal point.
The lighting of a sacred fire, typically made of ghee and wooden wicks, to invoke the God Agni (fire) to testify about the ceremony is an essential part of this Hindu ceremony. The priest typically asks the father, brother, or uncle to light the sacred fire. This Agni spirit is invoked to cleanse the union of all evil eyes and words and to build it on transparency and purity. Fire is also regarded as a life-sustaining and purifying force. Being an excellent wedding observer is also considered custom.
This ceremony is followed by the Sindoor, Mangal Sutra, and Saptapadi, or the seven sacrificial vows. With their right foot on a betel nut or stone, the bride and groom take seven symbolic steps together. As each step signifies a particular commitment that the couple makes to one another, they repeat the desires of their married life, which are as follows:
Respect and honoring one another is the first step.
Sharing one another’s happiness and sorrow is the second step.
The third step is to trust and love one another.
To cultivate an appreciation for knowledge, values, sacrifice, and service is the fourth step.
The fifth step is to cherish family responsibilities, spiritual development, and the purity of emotions.
The sixth step is to adhere to the Dharma’s principles.
The seventh step is to cultivate a lasting friendship and love bond.
This ceremony is also performed in front of the holy fire, which serves as a witness to the vows, according to some local customs.
17. Temples Have Bells
Before entering the inner sanctum (Garbhagudi or Garbha Gruha, or womb chamber), where the main idol is located, visitors should and will ring the bell. Agama Sastra says that the bell is used to keep evil forces away and that God likes the sound of the bell ringing. However, the scientific explanation for bells is that the sound of the bell helps us focus on our devotional goals and keeps our minds clear. Because of their design, these bells unite the Left and Right sides of our brains when they make a sound. In echo mode, when we ring the bell, it makes a sharp and persistent sound that lasts at least seven seconds. The echo lasts long enough to activate all seven of our body’s healing centers. Our minds become devoid of all negative thoughts as a result.
18. Eating while sitting on the floor
Sitting in the “Sukhasan” position and then eating is a part of this custom, not just eating on the floor. Yoga asanas are typically practiced in Sukhasan. Sukhasana or a half padmasana (half lotus), which are poses that instantly bring a sense of calm and aid digestion, are typically performed cross-legged on the floor. It is believed to automatically trigger the signals to your brain to prepare the stomach for digestion.
19. Grasp an ear
The Hindu way of life places a significant value on perforating the ears.
Doctors and philosophers agree that piercing the ear stimulates the brain’s capacity for critical thinking and decision-making. One’s life force is consumed by talking. Speech control is made easier with an ear piercing. It helps to curb impertinent behavior and prevents disorders in the ear canals. The Western world additionally loves this thought, so they are getting piercings to wear extravagant hoops as a style proclamation.
20. The Elder’s Feet Being Touched
The person whose feet you are touching is typically elderly or religious. Their hearts release positive thoughts and energy (called karuna) that reach you through their hands and toes when they accept your respect, which comes from your reduced ego and is called shraddha. In essence, the completed circuit initiates a rapid connection between two minds and hearts by facilitating the flow of energy and increasing cosmic energy. Hugs and handshakes can, to a certain extent, accomplish the same thing.
The nerves that originate in our brains spread throughout our entire bodies. Your hand and foot fingertips are where these nerves or wires come to an end. A circuit is immediately formed and the energies of two bodies are connected when you join your fingertips to those of their opposite feet. The other person’s feet become the “giver” of energy, while your fingers and palms become the “receptor.”
There are three different ways to touch your feet, all of which are beneficial to our bodies and offer opportunities for exercise.
• Extend your hands and touch your feet while leaning forward. The waist and backbone are stretched with this method.
• Touch your feet while sitting on your knees. Knee pain is alleviated by using this method.
• Sashtang Namaskar is when you lie on your stomach and stretch your hands and legs. This method relieves body pain by stretching the entire body.
We should always touch the feet of our elders for shivah, or blessings. This practice is done for this reason. I sincerely hope that the generations to come will comprehend these reasons and continue all of our customs.
21. Women use Vermillion or Sindoor.
It’s interesting to note that married women’s use of sindoor has a physiological significance. Sindoor is made by mixing turmeric, lime, and the metal mercury together. In addition to regulating blood pressure, mercury’s inherent properties also stimulate sexual desire. This also explains why widows cannot participate in Sindoor. Sindoor should be applied all the way up to the pituitary gland, which controls all of our emotions, for the best results. Mercury is also known to alleviate tension and stress.
22. Janai and what it means.
Following the performance of the Upanayana Sanskar, Bratabandha is one of the 16 Sanskars of Sanatan Hinduism. A Dwija child is permitted to perform Yagya and Swadhyaya after marriage. The word “Dwija” means “second birth.” Janai is also known by the titles Upavita, Yajnasutra, and Brahmasutra. Janais have been worn by people ever since the Vedas were written.
In the three sutras, Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh are all mentioned. It is also regarded as a representation of Pitrurin, Rishirin, and Devarin as well as sattva, raja, and tama. In addition, the three ashrams and phases of the Gayatri Mantra are depicted in these three sutras.
The Janai has 96 fingers because the wearer must attempt to learn 32 vidya and 64 arts. The 32 Vidyas are made up of nine Aranyakas, four Vedas, four Upavedas, six Angas, six Darshans, and three Sutras.
64 of the arts include things like dancing, cooking, painting, and making instruments. Scientific significance The wearer is constrained by the rules of neatness. Cleanliness protects his mouth, stomach, and other parts. from diseases.
When a person is wrapped around their right ear, the ear nerve is compressed and the brain’s latent tissue is activated.
The vein in the right ear is connected to the testicles and genitals. While urinating, the right ear is wrapped around the sperm to protect them.
When the Surya Nadi is wrapped around its ears, stomach ailments, and high blood pressure are eradicated.
When holding the janai, anger is easy to control and the current line is under control.
Immaculateness is experienced by individuals. It prevents one from having negative thoughts.
23. The Truth About Tuppi
The term “puppy” refers to the hair in the center of the head. Not only is it stated in the scriptures that the tip should not be cut, but its significance is also discussed.
a. The first benefit of tuppi, according to the Bible, is that it improves memory. Additionally, research has demonstrated that the tip is connected to the primary organ of the body.
b. The tips and the inner part of the brain, where the pulse is connected, are also connected.
c. Shikha also shields against heat and cold. By shielding the main body part from cold or heat, the tip also helps people stay healthy.
d. The crest is connected to all of the body’s sense organs, including the ears, nose, jaws, and eyes, among others. Additionally, it controls the hands, feet, and anus. When Shikha or Tuppi is raised, physical and mental control are also possible.
e. The power of other organs increases proportionally to brain power.
24. Ausani
Small germs exist that cannot be seen with the naked eye. In our culture, it is customary to cover the plate with water and sprinkle rice before eating to prevent the spread of these germs. This allows germs to break through the water and get to the food, where they remain entangled in the sprinkled rice until the meal is finished.
28. Using the Gayatri Mantra.
When chanted, the Gayatri Mantra generates more than 100,000 distinct waves per second. As demonstrated by subject matter experts, the waves delivered by
the Gayatri Mantra are considered very valuable for the body and
prosperity. Chanting the Gayatri Mantra every day for ninety minutes before sunrise is very good for your health.
