ஆன்மிக கதை

ஆன்மிக கதை

நாம் பல சாதனைகளைப் புரிகிறோம்.
சிலவற்றுக்காக பாராட்டப்படுகிறோம், பல பாராட்டைப் பெறுவதில்லை. கீதை சொல்கிறது ""கடமையைச் செய், பலனை எதிர்பாராதே'' என்று. ஆனால், பாழும் மனம் என்னவோ புகழைத் தேடி பேயாய் அலைகிறது. பல சாதனைகள் செய்தும் அதற்கான பலனை எதிர்பாராமல் வாழும் நல்ல உள்ளங்களும் இருக்கத்தான் செய்கின்றன. அவர்கள் புகழடையா விட்டாலும் மக்கள் நெஞ்சங்களில் என்றும் வாழ்ந்து கொண்டு கொண்டு தான் இருக்கிறார்கள்.
ஒரு சினிமா நடிகர் அல்லது நடிகையின் பெயரைச் சொன்னதுமே இவர் இன்னார், இன்ன படத்தில் நடித்துள்ளார், இன்ன காட்சியில் சிறப்பாக நடிப்பார் என்றெல்லாம் பிளந்து கட்டி விடுகிறோம். டாக்டர் ஜோனாஸ் சால்க் என்பவரும் இருந்தார். "யார் அவர்?' என்றால், பலருக்கும் தெரிந்திருக்க வாய்ப்பில்லை தானே!
இன்று உலகில் பல மனிதர்கள் ஒழுங்காக நடமாடக் காரணமே இவர் தான். ஆம்...இவரும் இவரது குழுவினரும் தான் போலியோவைக் குணப்படுத்தும் வைரஸ் ஒன்றைக் கண்டுபிடித்தனர். புளூகாய்ச்சலுக்கு மருந்து தயாரிக்கும் பணியையும் பிட்ஸ்பர்க் பல்கலைக்கழகம் இவரிடம் ஒப்படைத்தது. அந்த மருந்தைக் கண்டுபிடித்து உலகப்புகழ் பெற்றார். நியூயார்க் பல்கலைக்கழகத்தில் படித்து டாக்டர் பட்டம் பெற்ற இவர், தனது சாதனைகளுக்காக அமெரிக்க ஜனாதிபதியிடம் விருதெல்லாம் வாங்கியிருக்கிறார்.
நம்மூர் காந்திஜிஜையே மறந்து விட்ட நாம், இவரை ஞாபகம் வைத்திருக்க நியாயமில்லை தான்! இனியாவது ஒவ்வொரு போலியோ முகாம் நடக்கும் போதும் இவரை நாம் நினைவில் கொள்ள வேண்டும்.
சாதனைகள் மூலம் நாம் புகழ் பெறலாம், பரிசுகள் பெறலாம். இதெல்லாம் நமது ஆத்ம திருப்திக்காகவே. ஆனால், நமது கண்டுபிடிப்பு அல்லது சேவை மூலம், முகம் தெரியாத கோடிக்கணக்கான மக்கள் பயனடைகிறார்கள் என்றால், அதை விட ஆத்மதிருப்தி வேறென்ன வேண்டும்! ஊருக்காக வாழ்பவர்களுக்கு இறைவனின் இதயத்தில் இடஒதுக்கீடு உண்டு. அவர்கள் உயர்ந்த நிலையில் இருக்க வேண்டுவோம்.

கடவுள் எங்கே

கடவுள் எங்கே

கடவுள் எங்கே இருக்கின்றார்?

கடவுள் இருக்கின்றாரா என்பது பலருக்கு ஐயப்பாடு. இருந்தால் அவர் எங்கே இருக்கின்றார் என்பதிலும் ஐயம். அவர் என்ன வடிவில் இருக்கின்றார் என்பதிலும் ஐயம்.
சில பொருள்களைக் கண்ணால் காணமுடியாது. காணமுடியாமையால் அப்பொருள் இல்லை யென்று கூறுவது அறிவுடமையாகாது. மலரில் மணம் இருக்கின்றது. அந்த மணத்தைக் கண்ணால் காண முடியாதல்லவா? ஒருவன், இம்மலரில் மணம் இருக்கின்றதா என்று முப்பது ஆண்டுகளாகக் கண்ணால் உற்றுப் பார்த்தேன். பூதக் கண்ணாடி வைத்தும் பார்த்தேன். வாசனை இருந்தால் என் கண்ணுக்குத் தெரியாதா? ஆகவே இம்மலரில் வாசனை இல்லை என்று முடிவு கட்டினான். அப்படி முடிவு கட்டிய மேதாவிக்கு மூக்கில் சதை வளர்ந்திருந்தது.

காற்று வாய் வழியாக வந்து போய்க் கொண்டிருந்தது. அவன் மலரின் மணத்தைக் கண்ணாலன்றி வேறு எதனால் அறியத் தலைப்படுவான்? அவனைப்  போலவே மூக்கில் சதை வளர்ந்தவர்கள் ஊருக்கு நான்கு பேர் ஒன்றுகூடி மலரில் மணம் இல்லையென்று தீர்மானம் செய்தால், அதை நல்ல மூக்குள்ள ஒருவன் ஒப்புக் கொள்வானா என்பதைச் சிந்தியுங்கள்.

மலரின் மணத்தை நாசியினால் அறிதல் வேண்டும். ஒரு செய்யுளில் பொதிந்து கிடக்கும் கருத்தை அறிவினால் அறிதல் வேண்டும். இனிக் கடவுளை மெய்யறிவினால் அறிதல் வேண்டும். மெய்யறிவு என்பது நூல்களைப் படிப்பதனால் வரும் கலையறிவு அன்று. நூலறிவால் வாலறிவனாகிய இறைவனை அறிய முடியாது. மெய்யறிவு என்பது அநுபவத்தில் விளைவது. சுட்டியறிகின்ற உலக அறிவு முழுவதும் அற்றுப்போன இடத்திலே அநுபவ அறிவு தலைப்படும். அந்த அளவில் அறிவுக்கறிவான இறைவனுடைய அருட்காட்சி தோன்றும். இதனை அநுபவ ஞானியாகிய அருணகிரிநாத சுவாமிகள் கந்தரநுபூதியில் இனிமையாகவும் அழகாகவும் கூறுகின்றார்

"அறிவொன் றறிநின் றறிவார் அறிவில்
 பிறிவொன் றறநின்ற பிரானலையொ
 செறிவொன் றறவந் திருளே சிதைய
 வெறிவென் றவரோ டறும்வே லவனே." -  கந்தரநுபூதி

"அறிவா லறிந்து னிருதா ளிறைஞ்சும்
 அடியா ரிடைஞ்சல் தளைவோனே" -             திருப்புகழ்

ஏறக்குறைய 1500 ஆண்டுகளுக்கு முன் அறிஞர்கள் பலர் ஒன்றுகூடி கடவுளைப் பற்றி ஆராய்ந்து விவாதித்தார்கள்.
ஒருவர், "கடவுள் கைலாயத்தில் இருக்கின்றார்" என்றார்.
ஒருவர், "கடவுள் சூரியமண்டலத்தில் இருக்கின்றார்" என்றார்.
ஒருவர், கடவுள் தேவேந்திர உலகத்தில் இருக்கின்றார்" என்றார்.
ஒருவர், "கடவுள் அண்ட முடிவில் இருக்கின்றார்" என்றார்.
ஒருவர், "கடவுள் வேத முடிவில் இருக்கின்றார்" என்றார்.
ஒருவர், "கடவுள் அறிஞர் நடுவே இருக்கின்றார்" என்றார்.
இவ்வாறு பலர் பலவாறு கூறித் தருக்கம் புரிந்தார்கள். தாம் தாம் கூறியதே சரியென்று வாதிட்டு வழக்கிட்டுக் கொண்டார்கள்.

அக்காலத்தில் காரைக்கால் என்ற திருநகரத்தில் அறிவின் கருவூலமாகப் புனிதவதியார் விளங்கிக் கொண்டிருந்தார். ஆண்களைக் காட்டிலும் பெண்கள் அறிவில் சிறந்தவர்கள் என்பது மறுக்க முடியாத உண்மை. ஞானத்தைப் பெண்ணாகக் கூறுவது சாத்திரம்.

"சக்தி தான் யாதோ என்னில் தடையில்லா ஞானமாகும்". - சிவஞான சித்தியார்

ஆதலினால் கடவுள் எங்கே இருக்கின்றார் என்று வாதிட்டுக் கொண்ட அறிஞர்கள் அனைவரும் ஒருங்கு திரண்டு காரைக்காலுக்கு வந்தார்கள். அங்கே அறிவும் அன்பும் ஆசாரமும் பண்பும் ஒழுக்கமும் கற்பும் சேர்ந்து ஓர் உருவாக அவதரித்தது போல் காரைக்கால் அம்மையார் இருந்தார். அவரிடம் அறிஞர்கள் சென்று வணங்கி, தாங்கள் கடவுள் எங்கே இருக்கின்றார் என்று வாதம் புரிந்ததையும் முடிவு காண முடியாமல் போனதையும் கூறி நின்றார்கள்.
அம்மையார் தனித்தனியே அவர்களை நோக்கி அவர்கள் கருத்தை வினவினார்கள். அவர்களும் கடவுள் வானத்திலும் வானவர்கோன் தானத்திலும் இருக்கின்றார் என்று தத்தம் கருத்தை கற்ற நூலறிவைக் கொண்டு கழறினார்கள்.

தலைமை சான்ற புலமை நிறைந்தவரும் மெய்யறிவு பெற்றவருமான அம்மையார் புன்னகை புரிந்து, கடவுள் இருக்குமிடம் இதுவென ஒரு நேரிசை வெண்பாவில் விடை பகர்ந்தார்.

"வானத்தான் என்பாரும் என்கமற் றும்பர்கோன்
தானத்தான் என்பாருந் தாமென்க - ஞானத்தான்
முன்னஞ்சத் தாலிருண்ட மெய்யொளிசேர் கண்டத்தான்
என்னெஞ்சத் தானென்பன் யான்."
இறைவன் நினைப்பவர் மனம் கோயிலாகக் கொள்பவன். பொதுவாக எல்லோருடைய உள்ளங்களிலும் இருக்கின்றான். உள்ளம் உருகி நினையாதார் உள்ளத்துள் பாலில் நெய் போல் மறைந்திருக்கின்றான். உருகிய உள்ளத்துடன் ஓவாது உள்குவார் உள்ளத்துள் தயிரில் நெய் போல் வெளிப்பட்டுத் தோன்றி நிற்பான். அம்மையார் இடையறாது இறைவனை நினைந்தவராதலின் அவருடைய நெஞ்சிலே விளங்கித் தோன்றினான்.

ஆதலால் அம்மையார், ஆண்டவன் வானத்திலிருக்கின்றான், வானவர்கோன் தானத்திலிருக்கின்றான், வேத நடுவில் விளங்குகின்றான் என்று கூறுவாரெல்லாம் கூறுக. நான் கடவுள் என் நெஞ்சிலிருக்கின்றான் என்று கூறுவேன் என்று யாரும் மறுக்க முடியாத அளவில் அழகாகக் கூறினார்.

இப்பாடலின் மூன்றாவது வரி முன்னஞ்சத்தாலிருண்ட மெய்யொளி சேர் கண்டத்தான் என்பது மிகவும் அருமையானது. இறைவனுடைய கண்டம் நஞ்சினால் இருண்டு ஒளி செய்கின்ற இருளில் ஒளி என்ற முரண்தொடையணியாக மொழிந்த அழகு நனிபெருஞ் சிறப்புடையது.

எனவே இறைவன் இடையறாது எண்ணுவார் இதயத்தில் இருக்கின்றான் என்பதை யாவரும் அறிந்து ஐயந்தீர்ந்து அக மகிழ்ந்தார்கள்.

LORD SHIVA

Lord Shiva
India is the religious country and Indian spends their lots of time in worship. There are so many Lords, whom they believe and worship but the Lord Shiva is the Generator of the earth and most of the people likes to spend their time in the meditation of Lord Shiva. There are so many different shapes or designs that are known as jyotirlinga in which, Lord Shiva arrived on the earth. People esteem that “the Lord Shiva manifested on the earth on Aridra Nakshatra in the form of columns fire or light and a person seen him to converted into the jyotirlinga” but there is no distinguish of it.
Twelve Jyotirlinga
There are twelve jyotirlinga available on the earth which are famous as the shrine in the world and people go for see these jyotirlinga and to virtue. These jyatirlinga present in different states of India and the places where these jyotirlinga presents are given below:
1. Somnath is located in Saurashtra of Gujarat which is known as prabhas patan. This temple is destroyed and re-built six times.
2. Mallikarjun is present in the Shrishailam or Srisailam of Andhra Pradesh which is known as the ancient temple.
3. Mahakal is present in Ujjain which is known as Mahakalaswar of the Madhya Pradesh state.
4. Omkar is also known as Mammaleshwaram which is present beside the Narmada River of the Madhya Pradesh.
5. Vaijnath is present in the parli of Maharastra which is also known as Vaijnath temple.
6. Bhima Shankar is present near of pune in maharastra.
7. Rameshwaram is located in Setubandha of TamilNadu.
8. Naganath is also known as Nageshwar which is located in Darukavana of Maharastra.
9. kashi Viswanath is located in Banaras or Varanasi of Uttar Pradesh.
10. Trimbakeshwar is present near Nasik on the banks of river Godavari and it comes in state Maharastra.
11. Kedarnath is located in Utterkhand Himalayas of the state of Uttar Pradesh.
12. Ghurmeshwar present in Shivalaya OR Grineshwar present in Visalakam, near Ellora caves of Maharastra.

These are the twelve Jyotirlinga of the lord shiva which are famous in the world and in Indian culture it is known as shrine place where people go for getting peace and to virtue. These places are also famous for completing desire that means people believes that they can every thing in their life by going these places because these are the haven of the earth and everyone wants to feel it.
Amarnath
The amarnath is present in the jammu & Kashmir and it is placed 145 km east from the Srinagar. Amaranth is also a jyotirlinga of the lord shiva and people believes that lord Shiva present in the earth in the form of ice at amarnath. The amarnath jyotiflinga is completely made by the ice and it generates automatically from the earth in the form of ice. The size of the jyotirlinga continuously changes which may be decreases and increases every year according to the seasons and also with the change in moon that means it deceases as moon waxes and increases as moon wanes. The size of the shivalinga goes up to 6 fts.
Amarnath Yatra
The amarnath yatra is possible in two times in a year and people go to see that beautiful sculpture of the lord Shiva which is not possible any other place. It is very difficult to go for amarnath yatra separately by own vehicle and it becomes costly for each person so mostly people goes in group with their relatives or neighbour or other pilgrims. You can get different packages for going to amarnath yatra and the charges of amarnath yatra are different for different season.

LORD SHIVA

Kailashnath Mahadev : World's Tallest Lord Shiva Statue (143 ft)

Kailashnath Mahadev : World's Tallest Lord Shiva Statue (143 ft)

Kailashnath Mahadev : Situated at Kailashpuri, just 20 kms from Kathmandu Valley on the way to Banepa

Kailashnath Mahadev is the world's tallest Lord Shiva statue (143 ft), Situated just 20 Kms from Kathmandu Valley at Kailashpuri (Sanga) on the way to Banepa. The statue is built by Mr Kamal Jain (Founder of Hilltake Group of Companies). Although he was born in India, he made the tallest statue in Nepal & made Nepal & Nepalese feel proud to the world...

Lord Shiva Graphics,Siva photos,Parvati,Ganesha,Shivji Animation Images

Lord Shiva Graphics,Siva photos,Parvati,Ganesha,Shivji Animation Images

Latest and beautiful graphics of Lord Shiva for your blog and website.Religious pictures & gif images of lord shiva with parvati mata with their family and children for myspace,google+,facebook and multiply.Maha Shivratri Festival is celebrated by worshippers of siva to obtain his blessings and progress in spirituality and meditation.One of the great among all gods is shankara who saves his bhaktas from evil, diseases and death whosoever recites his name with faith and decotion.HD images and pictures of lord shiva along with his shakti in tantra pose and in meditative asana in himalayas.Lord shiva names are many which are recited with love by his ardent devtees all over india and the world.Mantra of lord shiva is "Aum Namah Shivaya".Shiva songs and bhajans are sung by people who have faith in siva power in this universe.



Lord Shiva dancing f death after destroying evil



Lord Shiva and kali and mahakaal

 

Lord Shiva family graphics ,ganesha, parvati ,kartikeya

 

Lord Shiva shivalinga with parvati in himalayas

 

Lord Shiva angry pics, blessing photos

 

Lord Shiva animation gifs images



Lord Shiva wit baby ganesha loving pose



Lord Shiva meditating in yoga

Vandana of lord shiva is done by shivaites in south india and those wh follow his path of yoga and tantra.On Shivaratri people around the world worship shivalinga with panchgavya, belapatra, dhatura and other articles.You can download pics of siva free from our site for your blog and blogger.

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Lord Shiva Family Graphics,Shivaratri,Ma Parvati,Ganesha,Hindu Gods,Spiritual Photos,Graphics Animation

Lord Shiva Family Graphics,Shivaratri,Ma Parvati,Ganesha,Hindu Gods,Spiritual Photos,Graphics Animation

WE hav eon our spiritual site beautiufl pictures and graphics of Lord Shiva which you can use on your blogger, google+, facebook, hi5, myspace,friendster and other websites.He is lovingly worshipped by the devotees in the abstract form of Shiva linga which is usually black in color. In numerous images of Lord Siva he is seen as a handsome young man immersed in deep meditation and contemplation. He has many names like Nataraja, Rudra, Shankara, Sada Shiva, Mahesha according to Shiva Purana; the sacred scripture of hindus. Lord Shiva is also called as the destroyer or Maha mrityunjay by shivaites. Lord Shiva gave yoga to her first disciple uma or ma parvati acccording to Shiva Stories in upanishads in which Shiva mantra and Shiva pictures are given with shiva lingam. Rudra shiva has little anghry pose of shivji.lord shiv Mahashivratri Festival is celebrated in month of savan and Bhole Baba Jyotirlingas are worshipped with panchgavya.God Shiva is considered to be the Third God of the Hindu Trinity.According to Shaivism Goddess Parvati is the consort of Lord Shiva in the Hindu Mythology as mentioned in shiva puran also. She is said to be many forms of "Shakti" in her numerous forms.God Shiva had two wives which are sacred river Ganga whom lord shiva taken on his matted hairs and Parvati. Pashupatinath temple is one of the 12 Swayambhoo Lord Shiva temples that is located in katmandu in Nepal where evotees from all over the world congregrate.The Hinduism followers that worship God Shiva are also called Shaivas or Shaivites as per indian termonology. Shaivism, and Śākta Amarnath Yatra is a great trip devoted by Hindu's to Lord Shiva as this yatra helps the devotees to reach enlightenment and moksha.Lord Trimbakeshwara resides in the hills of Bhramgiri.Sage Gautam is said to have worshipped Shiva with his sacred Mantra Jaap and attained his blessings.Shiva Puja is done with his mantra OM Namah Shivay or Mahamrityunjay Mantra which destroys suffering an evil.Kashi Vishwanath is also sacred place where lord shivalingas are found and considered as auspicious.Spiritual photo and images of Shiva Tandava is the Powerful God Shivas Nataraja Dance Animation photos on our blog.

Lord Shiva driking poison kalkuta and halahal

 

Blessing of Lord Shiva and ma uma on mahashivratri

 

Sacred Aum with shivalinga and  Lord Shiva images

 

Graphics animation of Lord Shiva meditating

 

Lord Shiva pictures with om

 



Blessing prayers of Lord Shiva with trishul photos




Ganesha paraying parents Parvati and Lord Shiva



Lord Shiva and parvati with fmaily of ganesha, kartikeya, nandi

Quan Yin posing as Lord Shiva

Quan Yin posing as Lord Shiva

I came across this beautiful painting today and had to share it.
On Wikicommons, the quote is as follows:

"Quan Yin Posing as Lord Shiva.

Lord Shiva

 

 

Listen top 10 lord shiva songs by clicking the link given below. We have given the you tube videos link. The rank given in the below list by our team. We have a collection of top 10 lord shiva devotional songs. You can also rank according to your choice. Please comment to rank as per you choice. We will update the list and rank the song as per your choice with your name.

Holy Mace Of Lord Shiva Begins From Chamba Town In Himachal Pradesh

The procession of the holy mace of Lord Shiva during the Manimahesh pilgrimage started from Chamba Monday amidst beating of drums and playing of ’shehnais’.

“The procession of the ‘Charri Yatra’ (holy mace procession) started from the 1,000-year-old Lakshmi Narayan temple in Chamba town,” Additional District Magistrate Neeraj Kumar told reporters.

It would reach Manimahesh Lake on Radhashthmi, the birth day of Krishna’s consort Radha, Sep 5, when more than one lakh devotees are expected to take a dip in the oval-shaped, glacier-fed holy Manimahesh Lake.

The 15-day Manimahesh pilgrimage in the interiors of Chamba district officially began Aug 22.

Kumar said more than three lakh people have undertaken the pilgrimage to the Manimahesh Lake so far.

Every year, devotees undertake an arduous 14-km trek from the Hadsar base camp, some 65 km from Chamba, to the lake from where they can see Mount Kailash, believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva, and offer prayers.

It’s believed that the devotees can have a view of the Mount Kailash only if the lord is pleased. When the peak is hidden behind clouds, it is a sign of the lord’s unhappiness, the believers say.

The state government has also allowed private heli-taxi operators to ferry people during the pilgrimage.

The choppers ferry devotees between Bharmour town, known for ‘chaurasi’ or 84 Hindu temples, and Gauri Kund, just one km short of the lake. The to-and-fro fare per person is Rs.7,500.

According to organisers, four people have lost their lives during the pilgrimage. Two pilgrims died when they were hit by rolling boulders.

About Lord Shiva

Om Shivaya Namaha:

Lord Shiva is a major Hindu deity, and is the destroyer god or transformer among the Trimurti, the Hindu Trinity of the primary aspects of the divine.In the Shaiva tradition of Hinduism, Shiva is seen as the Supreme God. In the Smarta tradition, he is regarded as one of the five primary forms of God. Followers of Hinduism who focus their worship upon Shiva are called Shaivites or Shaivas (Sanskrit Śaiva).Shaivism, along with Vaiṣṇava traditions that focus on Vishnu and Śākta traditions that focus on the goddess Shakti, is one of the most influential denominations in Hinduism.

Lord Shiva is usually worshipped in the abstract form of Shiva linga. In images, He is represented as a handsome young man immersed in deep meditation or dancing the Tandava upon Apasmara, the demon of ignorance in His manifestation of Nataraja, the Lord of the dance. It is said that He looks like an eternal youth because of his authority over death, rebirth and immortality. He is also the father of Ganesha and Murugan

The worship of Shiva is a pan-Hindu tradition, practiced widely across all of India, Nepal and Sri Lanka.Some historians believe that the figure of Shiva as we know him today was built up over time, with the ideas of many regional sects being amalgamated into a single figure.How the persona of Shiva converged as a composite deity is not well documented.Axel Michaels explains the composite nature of Shaivism as follows:
An example of assimilation took place in Maharashtra, where a regional deity named Khandoba is a patron deity of farming and herding castes. The foremost center of worship of Khandoba in Maharashtra is in Jejuri.Khandoba has been assimilated as a form of Shiva himself, in which case he is worshipped in the form of a lingam.Khandoba’s varied associations also include an identification with Surya and Karttikeya.

Lord Shiva Statue of Haridwar

You can’t help but to see the 100 foot Lord Shiva statue as you enter Haridwar from the East and South along the Rishikesh-Haridwar highway. Situated long the Ganges River banks in the Swami Vivekananda Park, the massive idol is a favorite destination for tourists and pilgrims alike, traveling to this holy city in the North India state of Uttarakhand.

Lord Shiva

 

Shiva is lord of the lords and it is really not easy to write/explain everything about shiva.However many have tried to explain him and praised him as per their knowledge but the explanation is endless and it is un-imaginable from a human being even devas, asuras and other rishi munis have very little words to explain about the lord almighty.
Shiva means the supreme one, the auspicious one, the pure one and for me the beloved one. Shiva is named as Pashupati which means the Lord of all living beings either it is humans, devas, asuras or any creatures. Another name Mahadeva depicts the great God, supreme in all devas(Gods).
The God staying in a state blissful, enjoying in Its Own Self eternally, without any flaws is the Supreme Lord shiva. The Perfection is the completeness - there is nothing external that is required to make the Self blissful.
Lord Shiva is reckoned among the Tridevas (trimity). Brahma is the creator, Lord Vishnu is the preserver and Lord Shiva is the destroyer. Shiva is the lord of Shakti also.
Lord shiva is absolute which does not have any parents  which never takes birth Which is all alone without association with any of the creatures or creations enjoying in the Self. God is the only one who is dependable for anybody / anything to surrender to as It is the only perennial Being.  Hence God is the Lord of all creatures (lives/souls). For this reason the Lord is hailed as pashupati (Lord of living beings). Whether it is devas or asuras or humans or other creatures all are pashus. That being the case how could the Lord be partial to one section of pashus and withdrawing the Grace for the other ? So anybody who worships the Lord sincerely could get blessed with Its Grace irrespective of the caste, creed, race, power, status and qualities.
It is in fact to be noted that Lord shiva is worshipped by the devas like viShNu, braHma, indra, by asuras like bANa, rAvaNa, tripura, sUrapadma, by humans like sha~Nkara bhagavatpAda, samban^dhar, appar, by other creatures like jaTAyu, sampAdi (eagles), vAli (monkey) and the list goes on and on. One finds in the purANas the variety of people of different backgrounds and qualities worship the Lord shiva. There are many histories of temples which talk of the cranes, bees, elephants, spiders, snakes worshipping the Lord and getting blessed. So the Lord as the Supreme blesses anyone who worships in sincere devotion. There is no discrimination on who the seeker is. The Lord is so merciful that He showers the boons one look for when there is a determination to seek Him. It is evident from the history of asura bANa who attained a great fame of his valor and got the place in the abode of Lord shiva all due to his determined worship of the Lord.
Lord shiva is the God of all. Like the mother He showers the grace for all the children, but the misusing children get punished. This Supreme Lord better than a mother does not withhold the grace, He is our beloved pashupati.
The God would not be biased. It would not differentiate between one group versus the other, whether it be divines or daemons or humans or plats or creatures or on sex or on race etc. All that matters is dharma and the pure devotion towards It. No doubt this lovely Lord shiva is worshipped alike by divines, daemons, scholars, not much learnt simple, and the other creatures.

Lord Shiva

The Powerful God:-

 

Shiva is 'shakti' or power, Shiva is the destroyer, the most powerful god of the Hindu pantheon and one of the godheads in the Hindu Trinity. Known by many names - Mahadeva, Mahayogi, Pashupati, Nataraja, Bhairava, Vishwanath, Bhava, Bhole Nath - Lord Shiva is perhaps the most complex of Hindu deities. Hindus recognize this by putting his shrine in the temple separate from those of other deities.

 

Shiva As Phallic Symbol:-

 

Shiva, in temples is usually found as a phallic symbol of the 'linga', which represents the energies necessary for life on both the microcosmic and the macrocosmic levels, that is, the world in which we live and the world which constitutes the whole of the universe. In a Shaivite temple, the 'linga' is placed in the center underneath the spire, where it symbolizes the naval of the earth.
Read the Story of the Shiva Lingam

A Different Deity:

The actual image of Shiva is also distinct from other deities: his hair piled high on the top of his head, with a crescent tucked into it and the river Ganges tumbling from his hairs. Around his neck is a coiled serpent representing Kundalini or the spiritual energy within life. He holds a trident in his left hand in which is bound the 'damroo' (small leather drum). He sits on a tiger skin and on his right is a water pot. He wears the 'Rudraksha' beads and his whole body is smeared with ash.

The Destructive Force:

Shiva is believed to be at the core of the centrifugal force of the universe, because of his responsibility for death and destruction. Unlike the godhead Brahma, the Creator, or Vishnu, the Preserver, Shiva is the dissolving force in life. But Shiva dissolves in order to create, since death is the medium for rebirth into a new life. So the opposites of life and death and creation and destruction both reside in his character.

The Most Fascinating of Gods:

He is also often portrayed as the supreme ascetic with a passive and composed disposition. Sometimes he is depicted riding a bull called Nandi decked in garlands. Although a very complicated deity, Shiva is one of the most fascinating of Hindu gods.

The God Who's Always High!:

Since Shiva is regarded as a mighty destructive power, to numb his negative potentials he is fed with opium and is also termed as 'Bhole Shankar', one who is oblivious of the world. Therefore, on Maha Shivratri, the night of Shiva worship, devotees, especially the menfolk, prepare an intoxicating drink called 'Thandai' (made from cannabis, almonds, and milk) sing songs in praise of the Lord and dance to the rhythm of the drums.

 

Shiva Chalisa

Shiva Chalisa is a "forty verse" prayer. Verses are recited or chanted by groups. The acts and deeds of Shiva are recalled in these verses to aid the devotee to meditate on virtuous and noble qualities.

ll Doha ll
Jai Ganesh Girija Suvan, Mangal Mool Sujaan l l
Kahat Ayodhyadas Tum, Dehu Abhaya Vardan l

ll Chaupai ll
Jai Girijapati Deen Dayala, Sada Karat Santan Pratipala
Bhal Chandrama Sohati Neeke, Kanan Kundal Nag Phani Ke

Ang Gaur Shiv Ganga Bahaye, Mundamal Tan Kshar Lagaye
Vastra Khaal Baghambar Sohe, Chhavi Ko Dekh Nag Muni Mohe

Maina Matu Ki Priya Dulari, Bam Ang Sohat Chhavi Pyari
Kar Trishul Sohat Chhavi Bhari, Karat Sada Shatrun Shaykari

Nandi Ganesh Sohe Tanha Kaise, Sagar Madhya Kamal Hain Jaise
Kartik Shyam Aur Gana Raau, Ya Chhavi Ko Kahi Jaat Na Kaau

Devan Jabhee Jaaye Pukara,Tabahin Dukh Prabhu Ap Nivaara
Keen Upadrava Taarak Bhari, Devan Sab Mili Tumhee Pukari

Turat Shadanan Ap Pathayo, Luv Nimesh Mahi Mar Girayo
Ap Jallandhar Asur Sanhara, Suyash Tumhar Vidit Sansara

Tripurasur Sang Yuddha Machayi, Sabahin Kripa Kari Leen Bachayi
Keeya Taphin Bhagirath Bhari, Purahi Pratigya Tasu Purari

Darpa Chhod Ganga Tab Ayee, Sewak Astuti Karat Sadahee
Ved Naam Mahima Tav Gayaee, Akath Anadi Bhed Nahin Payee

Pragati Udadhi Manthan Mein Jwala, Jare Surasur Bhaye Vihaala
Mahadeva Tab Kari Sahayee, Neelkantha Tav Nam Dharayee

Poojan Ramchandra Jab Keenha, Lanka Jeet Vibhishan Deenha
Sahas Kamal me ho rahe dhaari, Keenha Pareeksha Tabahi Purari

Ek Kamal Prabhu Rakheu johee, Kamal Nayan Poojan Chahin Soyee
Kathin Bhakti Dekhi Prabhu Shankar, Bhaye Prasanna Deya Icchhit Var

Jai Jai Jai Ananta Avinasi, Karat Kripa Sab Ke Ghatvasi
Dushta Sakal Mohi Nitya Sataven, Bhramita Rahe Mohe Chain Na Aave

Trahi Trahi Main Nath Pukaro, Yeh Avasar Mohi Ani Ubaro
Lai Trishool Shatrun Ko Maro, Sankat Se Mohi Ani Ubaro

Mata Pita Bhrata Sab Hoi, Sankat Mein Poochat Nahi Koi
Swami Ek Hai Aas Tumhari, Aaye Harahu Mam Sankat Bhaari

Dhan Nirdhan Kon Det Sadaee, Arat Jan Ki Peer Mitaee
Astuti Kehi Vidhi Karahu Tumhari, Shamhu Naath Ab Chook Hamari

Shanker Ho Sankat Ke Nashan, Vighna Vinashan Mangal Kaaran
Yogi Yati Muni Dhyan Lagave, Sharad Narad Sheesh Navave

Namo Namo Jai Namah Shivaye, Sur Brahmadik Par Na Paaye
Jo Yeh Path Kare Man Layee, Tapar Hot Hain Shambu Sahayee

Riniya Jo Koi Ho Adhikaari, Paath Kare So Paavanhaari
Putra Heen Ichha Kar Koi, Nishchaya Shiv Prasad Tehi Hoi

Pandit Triyodashi Ko Lave, Dhyan Poorvak Hom Karave
Triyodashi Vrata Kare Hamesha, Tan Nahi Take Rahe Kalesha

Dhoop Deep Naivedya Chadhavai, Shanker Sanmukha Path Karavahi
Janam Janam Ki Pap Nasave, Anta Vaas Shivpur Men Paave

Hey Shankar Hai Aas Tumhari, Dukh Peera Ab Harahu Hamari

ll Doha ll
Nit Nem Kar Praatha Hee ,Paath Karo Chaalis l
Tum Meri Manokaamna, Puran Karo Jagdeesh ll
Magsar Chhati Hemant Ritu, Sanvat Chausadh Jaan l
Astuti Chaalisa Shivhi, Puran Keen Kalyaan ll

Brahma

Characteristics :	Creator, Generator
Other Names :	Nabhija, Hiranyagarbha, Kanja
Consort :	Saraswati
Abode :	Brahmaloka
Weapon :	Brahmastra
Vahana (Vehicle) :	Swan
Brahma Gayatri Mantra:	Aum Parmeshwaraye Vidmahe Paratattvaye Dheemahi Tanno Brahma Prachodayat

Brahma - The Creator
Brahma is considered as the first god of the Hindu Trinity, the other being Vishnu and Shiva. Lord Brahma is recognized as the creator of the Universe. Brahma is regarded as the Supreme Being, the god of gods. Lord Brahma is the originator and the generator of the mankind. Brahma symbolizes the universal mind, as creation is the work of the mind and the intellect. If we consider this, from an individual's point, Brahma represents one's own mind and intellect. As an individual is god gifted with the mind and intellect, then it may be assumed that a person has already attained Brahma.

This could be the possible reason that worship of Brahma is not so popular among the Hindu people. However, he is worshipped by seekers of knowledge, such as students, teachers, scholars and scientists.

Lord Brahma - The Image
Hindu God Brahma can be seen as a four-faced, four-armed, bearded deity. He carries a rose and a book in the upper hand; a water pot (Kamandala) in the lower hand and one hand is always there to bestow grace. The four faces represent the holy knowledge of the four Vedas (Riga, Yajur, Sama and Atharva). It symbolizes that Brahma is the foundation of all the knowledge required for the creation of the universe. The four arms represent the four directions and therefore symbolize that Lord Brahma is the omnipresent and the omnipotent.

The white beard conveys wisdom and the long beard gives the idea that creation is a never-ending process. The crown on the head of Brahma implies that the Lord has the supreme power and authority over the process of creation. Brahma sitting on a lotus represents the creative power of the Supreme Reality. The white color of his clothes symbolizes purity.

As per the Hindu mythology, a swan is possessed with an exceptional discerning sense, which enables it to distinguish pure milk from a mixture of milk and water. Brahma uses the swan as a vehicle, which is known for its discerning abilities. This conveys the idea that, there is only one Supreme Reality from which the entire universe emanates.

Avatars of Vishnu

Lord Vishnu is prominent as the Preserver of the universe. Vishnu's restoring, shielding and conserving powers have been apparent in the world in a sequence of ten mortal incarnations known as Avatars. The avatars appear in order to balance the effect of good and evil upon the earth. It is believed that nine avatars have already descended, three in non human form, one in hybrid form and five in human form. Of the ten universally recognized avatars, nine have already appeared whereas the tenth is yet to appear. These ten avatars are also known by the name of Dasha Avatar of Vishnu.

All the Avatars are mortal form of Lord Vishnu, who himself is eternal, consistent and undeniable. The Dasha Avatar of Vishnu are briefly discussed here:

Matsya Avatar - Lord Vishnu in the form of Fish
The first avatar, Matsya, was taken by Lord Vishnu at the end of the Satyuga (last age), when a flood destroyed the world. Through this avatar, he saved humanity and the sacred Veda text from the flood.

Kurma Avatar - Lord Vishnu in the form of Turtle
The second avatar, Kurma, was taken in the Satyuga (last age) to help the Devas and to obtain the amrut (nectar) of immortality which was also sought after by the Asuras (demons). He helped in creating the world by giving support of his back through this avatar.

Varaha Avatar - Lord Vishnu in the form of Boar
The third avatar, Varaha, was taken at the end of the last flood in the Satyuga, when Bhoomi Devi (Earth Mother) sank to the bottom of the ocean. Vishnu, in the form of varaha, dived into the ocean and raised the goddess out of the ocean, supported by his two tusks.

Narsimha Avatar - Lord Vishnu in the form of Half - Man and Half - Lion
The fourth Avatar, Narsimha, was taken in the Satyuga (last age) to kill a tyrant demon king. Narsimha is the only avatar which was Hybrid in form being half human and half animal.

Vamana Avatar - Lord Vishnu in the form of a Dwarf
The fifth avatar, Vamana, appeared in the Tretayuga in order to destroy Bali, the king of demons. He came during a huge ceremony conducted by the king and cleverly asked for just three feet of land, measured by his own small feet. Vamana covered whole of the earth and the heaven, subduing Bali into his feet.

Parshurama Avatar - Lord Vishnu in the form of a Brahmin
The sixth avatar, Parshurama, appeared in the Tretayuga to destroy the warrior caste. When the kings of the earth became despotic and started to harm people and saints in the forest, Vishnu incarnated as Parshurama and destroyed all the kings who were harassing the people.

Rama Avatar - Lord Vishnu in the form of the King
The seventh avatar, Rama, the prince and king of Ayodhaya, appeared in the Tretayuga, to rescue Sita with his loyal servant Hanuman and his brother, Lakshmana, and killed the demon Ravana. Lord Rama became one of the most popular gods in the Hindu religion.

Krishna Avatar - Lord Vishnu in the form of a Cowherd's Boy
The eighth avatar, Krishna, along with his brother Balarama, appeared in the Dwaparyuga to kill the demon king, Kansa. Lord Krishna conveyed the message of love and humanity to the world. Krishna told the epic poem Bhagavad Gita to the warrior Arjuna ,in which he acclaimed : ''Whenever Dharma, or the situation of law and order, is endangered on this world, I incarnate onto this world to re establish Dharma, law and order, and to protect the Sadhus or saints and to destroy the evil elements of the society.''

Buddha Avatar - Lord Vishnu in the Form of Buddha
The ninth avatar, Mahavira Buddha, appeared in the Kalyuga, to teach the lesson of following a middle path in life. ''Buddha'' means 'the enlightened one'. He taught that all sorrow comes from attachments and desires, so it's better to curb all attachments in order to remain happy.

Kalki Avatar - Lord Vishnu in the form of Horse
The tenth Avatar, Kalki, ("Eternity", or "time", or "The Destroyer of foulness"), is yet to appear on the earth. And it is expected to appear at the end of Kali Yuga, the time period in which we currently exist, which will end in the year 428899 CE.

Lord Rama

Characteristics :	Morality, Virtue, Ideal son, Ideal king
Other Names :	Shri Ram, Ramachandra, Maryada Purushottama
Principal Scripture :	Ramayana
Consort :	Sita ji
Mula Mantra :	Om Sri Ramaya Namah
Rama Gayatri Mantra :	Aum Dasarathaye Vidmahe Sitavallabhaya Dheemahi Tanno Ramah Prachodayat

Lord Rama
Lord Rama is known as the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Rama, the perfect avatar of the Supreme Protector Vishnu, has always been popular among the Hindu deities. Rama is the symbol of courtesy and virtue, a man of values and morals. Ramachandra is Maryada Purushottama, which means the perfect man. Lord Rama is considered to have taken birth on the earth to destroy the evil forces of the age.

Lord Rama, in the words of Swami Vivekananda, is "the embodiment of truth, of morality, the ideal son, the ideal husband, and above all, the ideal king". Rama is widely accepted to be an actual historical figure - a "tribal hero of ancient India" - whose deeds form the great Hindu epic of Ramayana or The Romance of Rama, written by the ancient Sanskrit poet Valmiki. According to the Hindus belief, Rama lived in the Treta Yug. Although historians are of the conviction that Rama was not particularly deified until the 11th century AD. Tulsidas' wonderful version of the Sanskrit epic "Ramayana" into "Ramcharitmanas" greatly enhanced the popularity of Rama as a Hindu god and gave rise to various devotional groups.

Virtues of Rama
Shri Rama was a paragon of virtues. Rama was not only kind and affectionate but generous and considerate of feelings for all around him. Lord Rama had a marvelous physique and captivating manners. Shri Ram had a magnanimous personality. He was extremely noble, generous, chivalrous and fearless. He was very simple and absolutely free from flamboyance.

Lord Rama is considered as a son unequalled in the world, and resembled Dasaratha in each and every aspect of good qualities. He never spoke a lie throughout his life. He always offered respect to the scholars and the elders, people loved him and he adored the people. His body was transcendental and outstanding. He was eloquent, attractive and adjustable to circumstances. He knew the heart of each and every human being on the earth (being omniscient). He had all the conceivable qualities of a king's son and was dear to the people as their own hearts.

Lord Rama was endowed with incredible transcendental qualities. The earth personified adored him, who was possessor of such virtues, who was indomitable, who was brave, and who was the unequalled Lord of all. To put succinctly, Sri Rama's life was a life of holy compliance, of stainless purity, of matchless simplicity, praiseworthy contentment, commendable self-sacrifice and remarkable renunciation.

Legend of Lord Rama
As per the widespread legends, Lord Rama is considered as the seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu, who took an Avatar to annihilate the demon king Ravana. Rama is known for his stainless personality and matchless simplicity. Shri Ram is one of the popular gods of Hindu religion.

Names of Lord Rama
Lord Rama is the one of the commonly worshipped gods of the Hindu religion. Shri Ram is recognized as the seventh incarnation (Avatar) of Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the Universe. Lord Ram is known for his virtues. Ram is the great lord of Hanuman, the ultimate disciple. Sri Ram is also known as Maryada Purushottam Ram because he is the epitome of righteousness.

Hanuman

Characteristics :	Strength, Divinity and Quick Wits
Other Names :	Pawanputra, Marutinandan, Bajrangbali, Anjaniputra
Principal Scriptures:	Ramayana, Shiva Mahapurana
Mula Mantra :	Om Shri Hanumate Namah
Hanuman Gayatri Mantra:	Aum Anjaneyaye Vidmahe Mahabalaye Dheemahi Tanno Hanumat Prachodayat

Hanuman is considered to be an avatar (incarnation) of Lord Shiva. Shri Hanuman, a great disciple of Sri Rama, is the symbol of devotion and dedication. Lord Hanumana is a provider of courage, hope, knowledge, intellect and devotion. Hanuman is in the form of Vaanar (monkey). He is usually pictured as a strong monkey holding a gada (mace) which is a sign of bravery and having a picture of Lord Rama on his chest which is a sign of his devotion to Lord Rama.

Birth of Hanuman
Hanuman was born in the Treta Yuga, to Anjana, a female vanara and Kesari, a strong vanara .This birth was planned by the Supreme lord with a perfect idea in the mind. The combination of Vanara and the celestial gave Hanuman strength, divinity and quick wits - his main characteristics. Being Anjana's son, Hanuman is also called Anjaneya, which plainly means "arising from Anjana".

Hanuman- The Brahmachaari
Hanuman remained a Brahmachaari throughout his life, an unmarried, celibate god. He is especially popular with body-builders, who believe that like him, one need to be celibate in order to have a strong body. Hanuman always treated women in the form of Mother and Sister. There are many incidences in the great epic Ramayana where this fact is proved.

Lord Hanuman - A Great Disciple
Hanuman has intense love for his Lord Rama which can be considered from this instance. Once Hanuman was asked by Sri Rama, "How do you consider me?". Hanuman said: "Oh Lord, while I identify myself with my body, I am Thy servant. When I consider myself an individual soul, I am Thy part. But when I look upon myself as the spirit, I am one with Thee. This is my firm conviction."

Worship of Hanuman
Hanuman is worshipped for his strength, agility and valor. The worship of Hanuman, symbolizes the worship of the Supreme Lord, for acquiring knowledge, physical and mental strength, truthfulness, sincerity, self-sacrifice, modesty, loyalty, and profound devotion to the Lord. Sri Hanuman was blessed by Sri Rama with immortality (chiranjeevi). Every temple of Sri Rama contains an idol of Hanuman. Worship of Hanuman is considered mandatory to complete the worship of Lord Rama.

During Chaitra (in between March-April), Hanuman Jayanti is celebrated to honor the birth of Hanuman, the monkey god widely acclaimed throughout India.

Hanuman Aarti
Hanuman Aarti completes the worship or prayers made to the God. It is believed that aarti provides a completion to the puja .This aarti of Shri Hanuman is also known Bajrangbali Aarti.

Shri Hanuman Chalisa
Shri Hanuman Chalisa is a prayer of "forty verses". Verses are recited or chanted by groups. The acts and deeds of Lord Hanuman are recalled in these verses to aid the devotee to meditate on virtuous and noble qualities.

Names of Hanuman
Lord Hanuman is the epitome of devotion and dedication towards his Lord Rama. Shri Hanuman is considered as the avatar or incarnation of Lord Shiva. Hanuman is also known as the Monkey God, who represents strength, valor, wisdom, intellect and sincere devotion. Hanuman is a powerful God who observed celibacy throughout his life.

Legends of Hanuman
Hanuman ji is considered as the incarnation of Lord Shiva. Shri Hanuman is one of the popular gods of the Hindu religion and is worshipped all over the world. Life of Hanuman is a legend in itself, for his immeasurable love towards his Prabhu Ram.

Krishna

Characteristics :	Strength, Beauty, Knowledge, Opulence
Other Names :	Kanhaiya, Gopal, Keshava, Kanha
Principal Scriptures :	Mahabharata, Bhagawad Gita, Vishnu Purana, Bhagavata Purana
Mula Mantra :	Om Kleem Krishnaya Namah
Krishna Gayatri Mantra:	Om Daamodharayae Vidmahee Rukmani Vallabhaye Dheemahee Tanno Krishna Prachodayaath
Consort :	Rukmini ji

Lord Krishna is one of the most popular and worshipped deities of the Hindu religion. Krishna is considered as the eighth avatar of Lord Vishnu, the divine. Shri Krishna is the very embodiment of love and divine ecstasy that destroys all pain and offense. Lord Krishna took birth over five thousand years ago in Mathura, India to Devaki (Sister of Cruel Demon-King Kansa) and Vasudeva in the prison cell of the tyrant Kansa. The sage Narada had predicted that Kansa would be killed by his nephew, so the king killed Devaki's first six children. The Seventh, Balarama escaped and the eighth, Krishna was clandestinely exchanged for a cowherd's daughter.

A Great Lover - Krishna
Krishna was greatly attached to his foster mother, Yashoda. The lord had immense love for cows being nurtured in the cowherd's family. In his childhood, he was really fond of Makhan (butter) and there are many famous mischiefs regarding this love. Later Krishna loved to play flute and used to seduce the village girls. His favourite was Radha who is claimed as the love of Krishna. And this is one of the famous love stories of Hindu mythology. The Lord is usually remembered and worshipped as Radha-Krishna. The pair symbolizes the eternal love between people and god. Krishna is recognized as the god of Hasya or humor and a messenger of peace.

Virtues
Sri Krishna is the naturally loving and sweet aspect of Vishnu, Lord of Srimati Radharani and center of the spiritual abode. Krishna is the defender of sacred utterances. Krishna is a trickster and lover, a mastermind of all forms of knowledge and born to set up the religion of love. He is also known for his bravery in destroying evil powers throughout his life.

Phrase from Bhagavad Gita
It is believed that the Supreme Lord comes down from time to time in this material world to reestablish the teachings of the Vedas. Lord Krishna promises in his Bhagawad Gita: "Whenever and wherever there is a decline in religious practice, O descendant of Bharata, and a predominant rise of irreligion--at that time I descend myself. To deliver the pious and to annihilate the miscreants, as well as to reestablish the principles of religion, I myself appear millennium after millennium."

Krishna Aarti
Shri Krishna Aarti completes the worship or prayers made to the God. It is believed that aarti provides a completion to the puja .This arti of lord Krishna is also known as Janmashtami Aarti, which is usually sung on the birthday of Krishna.

Krishna Chalisa
Krishna Chalisa means a prayer of "forty verse", which praise and entreat Sri Krishna with devotion. They are recited over and over again to recall the virtues of Krishna, the Lord, in order to aid the disciple to meditate on good and righteous qualities.

Names of Lord Krishna
Sri Krishna is one of the most lovable deities of the Hindu Religion. Lord Krishna is regarded as the eighth incarnation or avatar of Lord Vishnu. Krishna took birth in the Dwaparyuga, according to the Hindu Mythology. God Krishna is the personification of love and ecstasy that vanishes all pain and sin.

Vishnu

Characteristics :	Protector, Preserver
Other Names :	Narayan, Adinath, Hrishikesh, Badrinath
Principal Scriptures :	Vishnu Purana, Vishnu Sahasranama
Consort :	Lakshmi, The Goddess of Wealth
Abode :	Vaikuntha
Mount (Vahana) :	Garuda (The Eagle Bird)
Weapon :	Chakra and Gada (mace)
Mula Mantra :	Om Namo Bhagwate Vasudevaya
Vishnu Gayatri Mantra:	Om Narayanaya Vidmahee Vasudevaya Dheemahi Tanno Vishnu Prachodayaat

Lord Vishnu is considered as the chief god in Hindu religion and Indian mythology. Vishnu, the preserver, forms the part of the trinity while the other two being Brahma and Shiva, respectively, as the creator and destroyer of the universe. It is believed that Vishnu is an eternal and universal spirit associated with the primeval waters that pervaded before the creation of the universe.

Vishnu - The NameLord Vishnu is known by numerous names and a thousand names are given in the book '' Vishnu Sahasranama''. The name Vishnu has its roots in a Sanskrit word 'Vish ', which means to pervade. God Vishnu is all pervading but known more by the avatars (incarnation) he took on the earth.

Vishnu - the Preserver
To understand the concept of Vishnu being the preserver of the world, one has to understand the two beliefs of Hinduism. The first is that men attain salvation by faithfully following predetermined paths of duty. The Second is that powers of good and evil (gods and demons) are in regular controversy to rule over the world. It is believed that whenever evil prevails over good in order to win, Vishnu comes down to earth in some mortal form to save righteousness. As per the Puranas, Vishnu is not allowed to interfere in the situations directly. So, he takes different avatar and act in manners that will re-establish proper balance between good and evil.

Vishnu - The Image
According to numerous Purana, Vishnu is the ultimate omnipresent reality. Still, he is depicted as a four-armed male-form indicating his all-powerful and all-pervasive nature. The skin color is new-cloud-like-blue which indicates his all-pervasive nature, blue being the color of the infinite sky as well as the infinite ocean on which he resides. Vishnu has the mark of sage Bhrigu's feet and the srivatsa mark, symbolizing his consort Lakshmi, on his chest. A crown decorates his head symbolizing his supreme authority. He rests on Ananta, the immortal and infinite snake.

Avatars of Vishnu
Lord Vishnu is prominent as the Preserver of the universe. Vishnu's restoring, shielding and conserving powers have been apparent in the world in a sequence of ten mortal incarnations known as Avatars. The avatars appear in order to balance the effect of good and evil upon the earth. It is believed that nine avatars have already descended, three in non human form, one in hybrid form and five in human form.