Holy Pilgrimage - Hindu temples in United Kingdom
Shree
Geeta Bhawan, Birmingham, UK
Shree Geeta Bhawan
107-117 Heathfield Road
Birmingham B19 1HL, United Kingdom
107-117 Heathfield Road
Birmingham B19 1HL, United Kingdom
Tel: Mandir:+44
(0)121 554 4120 Office:+44 (0)121 523 7797
Registered Charity Number: 258195
Registered Charity Number: 258195
Hinduism is not just a Religion,
more a way of Life
Welcome
We would like to
extend our warmest welcome and thank you for visiting our new website.
We aim to provide you the latest news and events of what is happening at Shree Geeta Bhawan. It is also our aim to promote the Hindu religion, advance the education of Hindus and to work for the improvement of inter-faith relationships.
We aim to provide you the latest news and events of what is happening at Shree Geeta Bhawan. It is also our aim to promote the Hindu religion, advance the education of Hindus and to work for the improvement of inter-faith relationships.
Vedic Homatmak Maha Rudra Yaga
Please feel free to browse the site where we try to provide you with as much information as possible. If you do not find what you were looking for then please do contact us and we'd be glad to help.
The Rudra Yajna is
the Most sacred and powerful among all the Maha Yajna's encompassing two
Nishkama Karmas, namely, Deiva Yagna (worship of Shiva and Other divinities),
and Manushya Yajna (performed with Large devotees who partake prasadam or grace
of the Lord).
It is very rare that a Yajna of this significance and magnitude can be witnessed. Equally rare is the opportunity for the people to actually participate in the worship. It is also done particularly for the sake of washing away ones sins and afflictions, for bringing peace, prosperity and happiness, along with family togetherness.
It is said that Lord Shiva after Bhasmasura was killed with the Help of Lord Maha Vishnu performed the Tandava Dance and then performed the "Rudra Yagna" for the Betterment of Humanity, this Place where the Rudra Yagna was performed is where the SriKalahasti Temple stands now, this temple also has one of the 12 Jyothirlingas of Parameshwara.
It is very rare that a Yajna of this significance and magnitude can be witnessed. Equally rare is the opportunity for the people to actually participate in the worship. It is also done particularly for the sake of washing away ones sins and afflictions, for bringing peace, prosperity and happiness, along with family togetherness.
It is said that Lord Shiva after Bhasmasura was killed with the Help of Lord Maha Vishnu performed the Tandava Dance and then performed the "Rudra Yagna" for the Betterment of Humanity, this Place where the Rudra Yagna was performed is where the SriKalahasti Temple stands now, this temple also has one of the 12 Jyothirlingas of Parameshwara.
Temple
Opens Daily
Monday - Saturday 8am - 1pm & 5pm - 8pm
on Tuesday's 5pm - 9pm
Sunday - 9am to 8pm
Bhandara - Every Tuesday at 8 pm. & Sunday at 1 pm
Monday - Saturday 8am - 1pm & 5pm - 8pm
on Tuesday's 5pm - 9pm
Sunday - 9am to 8pm
Bhandara - Every Tuesday at 8 pm. & Sunday at 1 pm
Armed Forces Diwali Event
‘Diwali’ the festival
of lights celebrates the triumph of good over evil and to be the ‘Force for
Good’. This is represented by lighting ‘diyas’ (lamps) to illuminate the
darkest night in the Hindu calendar. As seamen, soldiers and
airmen, it is the time to reflect on our commitment to society as we are the
wick in the ‘diyas’ that support the glow of the light. It is through our
selfless act and dedication that darkness can be defeated. ‘Diwali’ hence
carries an even more pertinent meaning to all serving in the UK Armed
Forces.
SGB MANDIR SERVICES
Opening Times
Daily Pooja's & Aarti
Bhandara
Community Services
Special Cultural Activities
Sponsored Puja n Bhandara
Hall Bookings
&
Our Services of Religious Interest
Our Services of Social Interest
Hindu Priest Educational Services
Opening Times
Daily Pooja's & Aarti
Bhandara
Community Services
Special Cultural Activities
Sponsored Puja n Bhandara
Hall Bookings
&
Our Services of Religious Interest
Our Services of Social Interest
Hindu Priest Educational Services
RELIGIOUS
FESTIVALS
New Years Day
Bahi Dhuj
Makar Sankranti
Gita Jayanti
Maha Shiv Ratri
Holi
Baisakhi
Ramnavmi
Guru Purnima
Raksha Bhandhan
Janamastami
Ganesha Chaturthi
Rishi Panchami
Shraadha Days
Navratri
Vijya Dashmi
Diwali
Karva Chauth
New Years Day
Bahi Dhuj
Makar Sankranti
Gita Jayanti
Maha Shiv Ratri
Holi
Baisakhi
Ramnavmi
Guru Purnima
Raksha Bhandhan
Janamastami
Ganesha Chaturthi
Rishi Panchami
Shraadha Days
Navratri
Vijya Dashmi
Diwali
Karva Chauth
POOJA
AARTI
Shree Ganesh Aarti
Om Jai Jagdish Hare
Gayatri Mantra
Maha Mrityunjay Mantra
Vishnu Aarti
Jaikaras - Glorys
Hanuman Chalisa
Durga Mata Aarti Chalisa
Hanuman Chalisa
Shiv Chalisa and Aarti
Santoshi Maa Aarti
Lakshmi Mata Je Aarti
Satyanarayan Ji Ke Katha
Shree Ganesh Aarti
Om Jai Jagdish Hare
Gayatri Mantra
Maha Mrityunjay Mantra
Vishnu Aarti
Jaikaras - Glorys
Hanuman Chalisa
Durga Mata Aarti Chalisa
Hanuman Chalisa
Shiv Chalisa and Aarti
Santoshi Maa Aarti
Lakshmi Mata Je Aarti
Satyanarayan Ji Ke Katha
Meaning of the name - Shree Geeta Bhawan
Shree
means Sir- A mark of respect, Geeta means - The name of the most sacred book
The Bhagvat Geeta. Bhawan means place of abode or Temple or Mandir.
It literary means "The house of Geeta".
It literary means "The house of Geeta".
An Historical Building
The building was the former St George's Presbyterian Church and was originally designed by J.P.Osborne in a cruciform shape in 1896. Shree Geeta Bhawan Mandir was opened in 1969 and since then we have made many improvements and adaptation to suit our cultural needs.
Shree Geeta Bhawan Building Architecture and Design shown above was approved and implemented in year 2009.
Mandir Services
Special
Cultural Activities
Pravachans
We were visited by many saints from India who gave soul rendering pravachans, more soon to be announced.
Mahayagna
Sahasra Chandi Mahayagna: This big event was successfully held for the first time in UK in our temple between 22nd to 26th June 2011 under the guidance of Acharya Dharam Dutt Vasistha ji and ably supported by Pandit Upendra Purohit.
The event was blessed by the gracious presence of HH Jagadguru Shankaracharya of Jyotrimath Swam Divyanand Tirath ji , HH Dharamratna Swami Gopal Sharan Devaacharya ji and performed by 51 vedic scholars from UK and India.
This event was made successful by the generous contribution of the 200 yajmans and the hard work of all the devotees and volunteers who gave their valuable time.
We were visited by many saints from India who gave soul rendering pravachans, more soon to be announced.
Mahayagna
Sahasra Chandi Mahayagna: This big event was successfully held for the first time in UK in our temple between 22nd to 26th June 2011 under the guidance of Acharya Dharam Dutt Vasistha ji and ably supported by Pandit Upendra Purohit.
The event was blessed by the gracious presence of HH Jagadguru Shankaracharya of Jyotrimath Swam Divyanand Tirath ji , HH Dharamratna Swami Gopal Sharan Devaacharya ji and performed by 51 vedic scholars from UK and India.
This event was made successful by the generous contribution of the 200 yajmans and the hard work of all the devotees and volunteers who gave their valuable time.
Hindu Priest Educational Services
UK INSTITUTE OF HINDU
MINISTRY
Organised by
THE NATIONAL COUNCIL OF HINDU PRIESTS UK
Three Year - Part Time Course
Start Date : September 2012
Educational Requirements: Minimum one A level qualification
The classes will be held at London & Birmingham
Please apply by writing to:
The National Council of Hindu Priests UK
Chapel House,
12 Frenton Close
Newcastle-Upon-Tyne
Post Code: NE5 1EH
http://www.hindupriests.org.uk
For more information contact
Pt. Acharaya Dharm Dutt Vashista Mobile: 0787 651 5542
Pt. Acharaya Krishan Kant Attri Mobile: 0795 175 9863
Organised by
THE NATIONAL COUNCIL OF HINDU PRIESTS UK
Three Year - Part Time Course
Start Date : September 2012
Educational Requirements: Minimum one A level qualification
The classes will be held at London & Birmingham
Please apply by writing to:
The National Council of Hindu Priests UK
Chapel House,
12 Frenton Close
Newcastle-Upon-Tyne
Post Code: NE5 1EH
http://www.hindupriests.org.uk
For more information contact
Pt. Acharaya Dharm Dutt Vashista Mobile: 0787 651 5542
Pt. Acharaya Krishan Kant Attri Mobile: 0795 175 9863
Executive Committee
|
Dr A N Verma
President Managing Trustee Mr O P S Dwivedi Vice President Managing Trustee Mr M P Sharma Vice President Holding Trustee Mr R Thakur General Secretary Managing Trustee Mr R K Gupta Treasurer Holding Trustee Mr N K Bali Membership Secretary Managing Trustee Mrs J Deshpande Religious Secretary Managing Trustee |
Mr Pran Nath
Asst. Treasurer Managing Trustee Mr S P Verma Holding Trustee Mr M C Desai Holding Trustee Mr T P Jain Holding Trustee Mr J C Sharma Managing trustee Mr H C Champanaria Managing trustee Mr P Bagga Managing trustee Mr Amrit Sharma Managing Trustee |
Hall Bookings
Hall and rooms are available for weddings and other private functions - contact office for more information.
Special Cultural Activities
Hall and rooms are available for weddings and other private functions - contact office for more information.
Special Cultural Activities
Pravachans
We were visited by many saints from India who gave soul rendering pravachans, more soon to be announced.
Mahayagna
Sahasra Chandi Mahayagna: This big event was successfully held for the first time in UK in our temple between 22nd to 26th June 2011 under the guidance of Acharya Dharam Dutt Vasistha ji and ably supported by Pandit Upendra Purohit.
The event was blessed by the gracious presence of HH Jagadguru Shankaracharya of Jyotrimath Swam Divyanand Tirath ji , HH Dharamratna Swami Gopal Sharan Devaacharya ji and performed by 51 vedic scholars from UK and India.
This event was made successful by the generous contribution of the 200 yajmans and the hard work of all the devotees and volunteers who gave their valuable time.
We were visited by many saints from India who gave soul rendering pravachans, more soon to be announced.
Mahayagna
Sahasra Chandi Mahayagna: This big event was successfully held for the first time in UK in our temple between 22nd to 26th June 2011 under the guidance of Acharya Dharam Dutt Vasistha ji and ably supported by Pandit Upendra Purohit.
The event was blessed by the gracious presence of HH Jagadguru Shankaracharya of Jyotrimath Swam Divyanand Tirath ji , HH Dharamratna Swami Gopal Sharan Devaacharya ji and performed by 51 vedic scholars from UK and India.
This event was made successful by the generous contribution of the 200 yajmans and the hard work of all the devotees and volunteers who gave their valuable time.
Hindu
Forum of Britain
The meeting was held at our temple on 15/09/2011
The meeting was held at our temple on 15/09/2011
Hindu Religious Festivals
New Years Day
This is the 1st day of the Hindu Calendar after the name of King Vikram. This day is commonly celebrated the day after Diwali.
It was on this day that Lord Waman ( the 5th incarnation of Lord Vishnu) liberated the "Prithvi Mata" from the reign of the all powerful King Bali. In reality, the King had made the other three classes of society very weak and dependant. Lord Waman brought in revolutionary consciousness thereby restoring the fragmented weak society up to its self respect and dutifulness.
On the same day Lord Krishna also challenged the peoples' acceptance of worshipping the proud autocratic leaders and he gave leadership to a deserving personality. He started Govardhan Pooja in Vrindavan by stopping Indira pooja, who had become proud and at times threatened the welfare of the people.
It is also a day for us to take new fruitful oaths getting rid of old dogmas. It is a day of establishing new relationships and fresh starts in life developing and strengthening bonds of brotherhood and love.
Gita Jayanti
Which Hindu wouldn't like to remember this holy book, the nectar of all our four Vedas, hundred and eighteen Upanishads and everything there is to know about way of life and day to day practices for an individual as well as mass spiritual upliftment and realisation of "Parmatman". Volumes have been written by many seekers and pundits on this little holy book.
Baisakhi
This is another festival rejoicing after taking the crops out of the fields. This is mainly celebrated in the North of India. Bortherhood feelings and cooperative sentiments are at the heart of this festival. Families come closer leaving out their sorrows and differences.
Maha Shiv Ratri
It is a day to ponder over qualities like selflessness, simplicity of living, meditation, generosity and richness of thoughts, contentment and indifference (vairagya). Lord Shiva truly represents all these qualities. If only humans were to truly realise that everything around us is destructable, most of the unhappiness emerging from materialistic race would come to an end. Structure of society would be totally different.
Lord Vishnu the protector of the Universe himself has worshipped Lord Shiva on this day with lotuses in the tranquility of midnight. It is a tradition to observe a fast and worship Lord Shiva with "Abhishek" while contemplating on his qualities.
Ramnavmi
The seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu took birth on the ninth day of the first lunar fortnight of the Charitra (6th lunar month according to the Hindu calendar). This incarnation was known as Lord Rama. He was born to King Dasharath and Queen Kayshalya. He was the ideal son, ideal pupil, ideal brother, ideal husband, ideal warrior, ideal King and besides all, an ideal master and friend.
The society in which he was alive had deteriorated to its lowest. Everybody was taking life for granted. Lord Rama therefore set standards for people and showed by his own behaviour the right code of conduct. We therefore know him as "Maryada Purshotam Ram" today.
Lord Rama conquered the demon King Ravana who had exiled him to the jungle for 14 years. Once Lord Rama had conquered the demon he returned to take his place on his throne and kingdom that he had to give up for 14 years. This homecoming is commonly known as Diwali.
Raksha Bhandhan
This is another but one of the more commonly known ones where the sister ties a thread on her brothers wrist. The thread acts like a shield of protection against any evil coming to her brother. In return the brother gives a small token of a gift to his sister indicating that he is prepared to sacrifice anything for the sake of her protection. All the sisters are thus protected by the brotherly sentiments in the society, by this event.
Janamastami
Lord Krishna was born on this day to Vasudev and Devki as the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, but Nandaba and Yashodaji of Vrindavan were his foster parents. Kansa (the tyrant King of Mathura) had made life very difficult, so did other Kings such as Jarasangh and Kalayavan to name but a few. To re-establish law and order, confidence and peace and Dharma in the society, Lord Krishna right from his childhood started his mission. Even though he was constantly surrounded by mortal danger he emerged unscathed and triumphant.
There have been many inacarnations but Lord Krishna's was unique and total in all respects. There was not a single aspect of human life where he did not provide a stirring and thought provoking solution to a problem. He was a staunch reformer, very able politician, liberal democrat, messenger of Peace, protector of harassed, sincere impartial friend, selfless leader and above all, top most preacher of the spiritual knowledge.
So far no-one has placed before the world a concise, unambiguous yet the cream of nectar of all spiritual knowledge as the "Bhagavad Gita" easy intelligible for a commoner. He has promised that the highest goal of god realisation can be achieved through any one of the divine paths:
- Bhakti (Devotion)
- Karama (Actions)
- Gnana (Knowledge)
Navratri
These nine days are celebrated for the worship of supreme power (Shakti) Amba maa or Durga maa. Folk dances and sticks dances are arranged during these days. Mythological story narrates, that there was a powerful demon King Mahishashur who terrorised everyone including deities like Indra, Agni, Varuna and hermits. It wasn't possible for any one God or Lord Vishnu to punish that demon.
All these gods - Brahma, Vishnu, Makesh, Indra, Varuna etc put all their powers together to make a supreme power. This was then used to fight and conquer this demon. Fierce form of this Shakti known as Durga maa killed the demon after nine days of terrible fighting. Peaceful form of Shakti was known as Amba maa. The tenth day is known as Vijya Dashami . It also shows the importance of the woman in the history of our cultural heriatge.
Karva Chauth
The married woman observes a fast and keeps awake for the whole night on this day, for the well being and all round welfare of their husbands. They also give presents to their mother-in-laws. This only brings out how clearly devoted the ladies of our society are. Women have always provided examples of self sacrifice, selflessness and total merger of the self as wives and mothers.
This is the 1st day of the Hindu Calendar after the name of King Vikram. This day is commonly celebrated the day after Diwali.
It was on this day that Lord Waman ( the 5th incarnation of Lord Vishnu) liberated the "Prithvi Mata" from the reign of the all powerful King Bali. In reality, the King had made the other three classes of society very weak and dependant. Lord Waman brought in revolutionary consciousness thereby restoring the fragmented weak society up to its self respect and dutifulness.
On the same day Lord Krishna also challenged the peoples' acceptance of worshipping the proud autocratic leaders and he gave leadership to a deserving personality. He started Govardhan Pooja in Vrindavan by stopping Indira pooja, who had become proud and at times threatened the welfare of the people.
It is also a day for us to take new fruitful oaths getting rid of old dogmas. It is a day of establishing new relationships and fresh starts in life developing and strengthening bonds of brotherhood and love.
Gita Jayanti
Which Hindu wouldn't like to remember this holy book, the nectar of all our four Vedas, hundred and eighteen Upanishads and everything there is to know about way of life and day to day practices for an individual as well as mass spiritual upliftment and realisation of "Parmatman". Volumes have been written by many seekers and pundits on this little holy book.
Baisakhi
This is another festival rejoicing after taking the crops out of the fields. This is mainly celebrated in the North of India. Bortherhood feelings and cooperative sentiments are at the heart of this festival. Families come closer leaving out their sorrows and differences.
Maha Shiv Ratri
It is a day to ponder over qualities like selflessness, simplicity of living, meditation, generosity and richness of thoughts, contentment and indifference (vairagya). Lord Shiva truly represents all these qualities. If only humans were to truly realise that everything around us is destructable, most of the unhappiness emerging from materialistic race would come to an end. Structure of society would be totally different.
Lord Vishnu the protector of the Universe himself has worshipped Lord Shiva on this day with lotuses in the tranquility of midnight. It is a tradition to observe a fast and worship Lord Shiva with "Abhishek" while contemplating on his qualities.
Ramnavmi
The seventh incarnation of Lord Vishnu took birth on the ninth day of the first lunar fortnight of the Charitra (6th lunar month according to the Hindu calendar). This incarnation was known as Lord Rama. He was born to King Dasharath and Queen Kayshalya. He was the ideal son, ideal pupil, ideal brother, ideal husband, ideal warrior, ideal King and besides all, an ideal master and friend.
The society in which he was alive had deteriorated to its lowest. Everybody was taking life for granted. Lord Rama therefore set standards for people and showed by his own behaviour the right code of conduct. We therefore know him as "Maryada Purshotam Ram" today.
Lord Rama conquered the demon King Ravana who had exiled him to the jungle for 14 years. Once Lord Rama had conquered the demon he returned to take his place on his throne and kingdom that he had to give up for 14 years. This homecoming is commonly known as Diwali.
Raksha Bhandhan
This is another but one of the more commonly known ones where the sister ties a thread on her brothers wrist. The thread acts like a shield of protection against any evil coming to her brother. In return the brother gives a small token of a gift to his sister indicating that he is prepared to sacrifice anything for the sake of her protection. All the sisters are thus protected by the brotherly sentiments in the society, by this event.
Janamastami
Lord Krishna was born on this day to Vasudev and Devki as the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, but Nandaba and Yashodaji of Vrindavan were his foster parents. Kansa (the tyrant King of Mathura) had made life very difficult, so did other Kings such as Jarasangh and Kalayavan to name but a few. To re-establish law and order, confidence and peace and Dharma in the society, Lord Krishna right from his childhood started his mission. Even though he was constantly surrounded by mortal danger he emerged unscathed and triumphant.
There have been many inacarnations but Lord Krishna's was unique and total in all respects. There was not a single aspect of human life where he did not provide a stirring and thought provoking solution to a problem. He was a staunch reformer, very able politician, liberal democrat, messenger of Peace, protector of harassed, sincere impartial friend, selfless leader and above all, top most preacher of the spiritual knowledge.
So far no-one has placed before the world a concise, unambiguous yet the cream of nectar of all spiritual knowledge as the "Bhagavad Gita" easy intelligible for a commoner. He has promised that the highest goal of god realisation can be achieved through any one of the divine paths:
- Bhakti (Devotion)
- Karama (Actions)
- Gnana (Knowledge)
Navratri
These nine days are celebrated for the worship of supreme power (Shakti) Amba maa or Durga maa. Folk dances and sticks dances are arranged during these days. Mythological story narrates, that there was a powerful demon King Mahishashur who terrorised everyone including deities like Indra, Agni, Varuna and hermits. It wasn't possible for any one God or Lord Vishnu to punish that demon.
All these gods - Brahma, Vishnu, Makesh, Indra, Varuna etc put all their powers together to make a supreme power. This was then used to fight and conquer this demon. Fierce form of this Shakti known as Durga maa killed the demon after nine days of terrible fighting. Peaceful form of Shakti was known as Amba maa. The tenth day is known as Vijya Dashami . It also shows the importance of the woman in the history of our cultural heriatge.
Karva Chauth
The married woman observes a fast and keeps awake for the whole night on this day, for the well being and all round welfare of their husbands. They also give presents to their mother-in-laws. This only brings out how clearly devoted the ladies of our society are. Women have always provided examples of self sacrifice, selflessness and total merger of the self as wives and mothers.
Bahi Dhuj
Traditionally all the sisters invite their brothers for a meal. It is a day of reunion of brothers and married sisters living apart and also a day of prayer for brothers for a long, healthy, active and sacred life.
It is in a subtle way, reminder for the men, of emotionally pious bonds of love and duty to respect the women of the society.
Makar Sankranti
Geographically the sun starts moving towards the tropic of Capricorn. It is the time when men and women are in tune with nature shifting towards cheerfulness.
It is the 14th January everytime. On this day "Tilgud" (sesame seeds and brown sweet sugar) are distributed among friends and neighbours signifying sweetness of speech and behaviour along with warmth, tenderness and strength through unity.
At a more subtle level, it is a day for our intellectual migration towards a better life of the society shedding the old ideas in favour of progress.
Holi (festival of colours)
Holi is a festival of colours. There is a story behind it. There was a cruel king named Hiranya Kashyapa. He did not believe in God. But his young son Prahalad was most devoted to God. He refused to obey the orders of his father.So his father ordered him to be burnt alive. Hiranya Kashyapa had a sister named Holika.
Traditionally all the sisters invite their brothers for a meal. It is a day of reunion of brothers and married sisters living apart and also a day of prayer for brothers for a long, healthy, active and sacred life.
It is in a subtle way, reminder for the men, of emotionally pious bonds of love and duty to respect the women of the society.
Makar Sankranti
Geographically the sun starts moving towards the tropic of Capricorn. It is the time when men and women are in tune with nature shifting towards cheerfulness.
It is the 14th January everytime. On this day "Tilgud" (sesame seeds and brown sweet sugar) are distributed among friends and neighbours signifying sweetness of speech and behaviour along with warmth, tenderness and strength through unity.
At a more subtle level, it is a day for our intellectual migration towards a better life of the society shedding the old ideas in favour of progress.
Holi (festival of colours)
Holi is a festival of colours. There is a story behind it. There was a cruel king named Hiranya Kashyapa. He did not believe in God. But his young son Prahalad was most devoted to God. He refused to obey the orders of his father.So his father ordered him to be burnt alive. Hiranya Kashyapa had a sister named Holika.
She had a special boon that the fire
could never burn her. So she took the Child prahalad in her lap and sat in the
fire. The king thought that the child would be burnt and his sister would
remain alive. But strange thing happened. It was Holika who was burnt. The
child remained unharmed. Holi is celebrated in honour of child Bhakt
Prahlad.
On the night before the Holi, fires are
lit everywhere. These fires show the burning of Holika. The next day is
the Holi day. It is a day of great fun and frolic. People play with colours and
sprinkle coloured water on one another. They visit their friends, apply gulal
on their faces and say Holi Mubarak to them.
People forget their old enmity and
become friends again. Thus Holi is a great festival.
Guru Purnima
A full moon day in Ashadh. This is the day for everyone of us who has sought for knowledge to pay respect for our teacher. It is rightly said that "Guru is a gate through whom you must pass to begin your journey in pursuit of any kind of knowledge". Our cultural and religious literature has placed Guru at a par with Parmataman. This day therefore presents a moment of introspection for us to check how far we have progressed on the path we have chosen to march on. Worshipping Guru is worshipping truth, divine knowledge and invaluable experiences.
Ganesha Chaturthi
This day comes sometime in September. According to the Hindu calendar it is the 4th day in pre-full moon days in Bhadrapad the eleventh month. We all know Ganesh is worshipped at the beginning of any religious ceremony.
He is known as the son of Lord Shiva and Maa Parvati. The mythical story about the form of Lord Ganesh in Purana is only to signify:
Guru Purnima
A full moon day in Ashadh. This is the day for everyone of us who has sought for knowledge to pay respect for our teacher. It is rightly said that "Guru is a gate through whom you must pass to begin your journey in pursuit of any kind of knowledge". Our cultural and religious literature has placed Guru at a par with Parmataman. This day therefore presents a moment of introspection for us to check how far we have progressed on the path we have chosen to march on. Worshipping Guru is worshipping truth, divine knowledge and invaluable experiences.
Ganesha Chaturthi
This day comes sometime in September. According to the Hindu calendar it is the 4th day in pre-full moon days in Bhadrapad the eleventh month. We all know Ganesh is worshipped at the beginning of any religious ceremony.
He is known as the son of Lord Shiva and Maa Parvati. The mythical story about the form of Lord Ganesh in Purana is only to signify:
1.
The importance of animals in our
cultural life.
2.
The supreme qualities of the leader of
masses, Gana = masses, Ish = chief, Ganesh = Chief of Leader
Rishi Panchami
This is a day to pay respects to all time saints, devotees, Yogi's and hermits who have placed before us and for us, their knowledge and experiences acquired by devotion, penance and meditation exercises. They have demarcated the path to be free from worldly sorrows and pains. They have shown us the path leading to eternal joy, eternal power and eternal knowledge.
Shraadha Days
This homage is paid to our ancestors, through whom we exist, live and prosper during these 15 days. It is our indebtness towards them who have lived for us through us. We have to pray and pay homage to our elders on the day they left their bodies to live in another world or heaven.
Vijaya Dashami (festival of victory)
The celebration of this day has a special significance as it is related to many events which resulted in brilliant successes in the past:
1.
Durga maa slaying Mahishashur on this
day
2.
Lord Rama set off on this day to
liberate Sitaji from the clutches of demon Ravana
3.
King Raghu gave an ultimatum to Kubera
the treasurer of Deva who became hoarder of wealth
4.
Lord Shiva the protector, set out
against Aurangzeb the muslim emporer.
Besides this, this day is considered to
be very auspicious day for entering new houses or embarking on any new project.
It is a day for everyone to march against our own inner enemies like laziness,
disorganisation, greed etc.
Diwali (festival of lights)
On the eve of Diwali people decorate their houses with candles and lamps. Rich and Poor, young and old all work hard and save for this night. People buy new clothes, new kitchenware and other things. Special fireworks are displayed. Everything is made clean and shiny.
On Diwali's eve people worship the goddess of knowledge and wealth 'Lakshmi'. They distribute sweets among family, friends and neighbours.
Diwali is the story of victory of goodness over evil. Truth is power, Truth is goodness and truth is beauty, that is what Diwali tells us.
Many thousands of years ago, there was a powerful, kind and generous king in India. His name was King Dashrath. He had three wives and four sons. The eldest son was Lord Rama, Bharat, Lakshmana and Shatrughana.
The King promised his wife 'Kaikeyi' two wishes if she was ever in trouble and the king would fulfill them. The king was growing old and had decided to hand over his kingdom to Lord Rama. When the queen heard this news she got jealous and called in her two wishes. The King did not know what she was going to ask. He asked her for he first wish:
Diwali (festival of lights)
On the eve of Diwali people decorate their houses with candles and lamps. Rich and Poor, young and old all work hard and save for this night. People buy new clothes, new kitchenware and other things. Special fireworks are displayed. Everything is made clean and shiny.
On Diwali's eve people worship the goddess of knowledge and wealth 'Lakshmi'. They distribute sweets among family, friends and neighbours.
Diwali is the story of victory of goodness over evil. Truth is power, Truth is goodness and truth is beauty, that is what Diwali tells us.
Many thousands of years ago, there was a powerful, kind and generous king in India. His name was King Dashrath. He had three wives and four sons. The eldest son was Lord Rama, Bharat, Lakshmana and Shatrughana.
The King promised his wife 'Kaikeyi' two wishes if she was ever in trouble and the king would fulfill them. The king was growing old and had decided to hand over his kingdom to Lord Rama. When the queen heard this news she got jealous and called in her two wishes. The King did not know what she was going to ask. He asked her for he first wish:
1.
I want Bharat to be proclaimed as King
of Ayodhya
2.
I want Lord Rama exiled for fourteen
years
The kings hands were tied, he had
promised to fulfill her wish but was heartbroken after what she had asked. He
granted her wishes and Lord Rama was exiled for fourteen years. His wife Sitaji
and his brother Lakshmana accompanied him.
One day whilst Lord Rama and Lakshmana were out searching for food the demon King Ravana disguised himself as a beggar and kidnapped Sitaji to his country. When Ravana, the demon king of Lanka abducted Sita and took her away to his island kingdom of Lanka, Rama fought against and killed Ravana. He rescued Sita and returned to Ayodhya after fourteen years. The people of Ayodhya were very happy to hear of their beloved prince's homecoming. To celebrate Rama's return to Ayodhya, they lit up their houses with diyas, burst crackers and decorated the entire city in the grandest manner. This is believed to have started the tradition of Diwali.
One day whilst Lord Rama and Lakshmana were out searching for food the demon King Ravana disguised himself as a beggar and kidnapped Sitaji to his country. When Ravana, the demon king of Lanka abducted Sita and took her away to his island kingdom of Lanka, Rama fought against and killed Ravana. He rescued Sita and returned to Ayodhya after fourteen years. The people of Ayodhya were very happy to hear of their beloved prince's homecoming. To celebrate Rama's return to Ayodhya, they lit up their houses with diyas, burst crackers and decorated the entire city in the grandest manner. This is believed to have started the tradition of Diwali.
Basics of Hinduism
HINDUISM |
|
||
|
Introduction:
Hinduism, the world's oldest surviving religion or it is appropriate to say it is not just a religion, but a way of life as well. We prefer to call our religion as 'Sanatan Dharma'. The word 'Sanatan' means eternal and 'Dharma' means nutural law. The word Hindu has originated from Persian language. Persians who came to India used this term to identify the inhabitants along the river Sindhu (Indus) in the north-west of India. 'Sa' in Persian is pronounced as 'Ha'; hence Sindhu is pronounced as Hindu. We Hindu's believe in one 'Absolute Spirit' or 'Supreme Power' and the different gods are just manifestations of His different attributes.
Hinduism does not have a single founder, creed or prophet like
in Christianity or Islam. There is no single holy book, but a multitude of
scriptures, such as Vedas, Upanishadas, Puranas and epics like Mahabharatha
& Ramayana, which deal with the concepts of beliefs, rituals and
spiritual aspects, as well as the way
of life.
Hinduism does not have a central authority or bureaucratic structure. It is also unique in the sense that it has accomodated in its folds, the religious & cultural perspectives other than its own, resulting in a wider variety of ideas and practices. Although there is quite a bit of diversity in the practices of Hindu's, there is unity in its concepts and that is why Hinduism is often described as 'unity in diversity'. |
|
||
|
Features:
Hinduism represents a wide spectrum of beliefs and practices ranging from worship of trees & stones on one hand to very profound, abstract and metaphysical speculations on the other. It has evolved from the multiplicity of ideas, which have largely never been discarded, but have been retained alongside each other. At the philosophical level, it is impossible to categorise Hinduism into any particular belief system like, monotheism, pantheism, theism, monasticism and so on.. Hinduism is perhaps of of these and much beyond these systems. We believe in a transcendent God, beyond the Universe. We believe in the existence of 'Atman' or 'Soul', which is eternal, invisible and immortal. Dharma & Karma are two major concepts of Hinduism. We believe that every individual has to pass through a series of lives & deaths (reincarnation) either on earth or elsewhere in the Universe before one obtains 'Moksha' or 'Liberation', which is the ultimate aim of every Hindu which unites him with the Absolute Reality, the Eternal, Universal Spirit. There are some eminent moral tenets of Hinduism, such as purity, self-control, truth, non-violence and detachment. |
|
Purity, here refers to both ceremonial purity
and moral purity. Purification baths, ceremonials and regulations regarding
food & drink prescribed in Hindu scriptures are meant to
lead to purity of mind & spirit.
Self-control implies both, the control of flesh & control of mind. It takes into account all the factors of human personality - the body, the mind, soul and spirit - and prescribes a graded disciplines for all.
Truth as a cardinal virtue in Hinduism means more than just truthfulness. It means the eternal reality. Pursuit of truth, wherever it may lead to and whatever sacrifices may need to be made, is indispensable for the progress of mankind.
Non-violence is always associated with truth, and the two together are considered to be the highest virtue.
Detachment is the higher of self-control. It means to overcome what is evil in life and also become independent of what is good, including family ties, domestic affections, and so on...
Self-control implies both, the control of flesh & control of mind. It takes into account all the factors of human personality - the body, the mind, soul and spirit - and prescribes a graded disciplines for all.
Truth as a cardinal virtue in Hinduism means more than just truthfulness. It means the eternal reality. Pursuit of truth, wherever it may lead to and whatever sacrifices may need to be made, is indispensable for the progress of mankind.
Non-violence is always associated with truth, and the two together are considered to be the highest virtue.
Detachment is the higher of self-control. It means to overcome what is evil in life and also become independent of what is good, including family ties, domestic affections, and so on...
Donations - Making a Contribution or Volunteering
Thank you for considering
to make your generous contribution to Shree Geeta Bhawan Temple, Birmingham.
Since it’s inception in 1969, the temple has been funded by many generous people and we are very grateful for all kind support you have given to the temple. May God's blessing be with you forever.
The money you donate will be spent for Temple Developments and various good causes as defined in our Constitution. Please email us to request a copy of this if you are interested.
Once again Thank you for your generosity.
Since it’s inception in 1969, the temple has been funded by many generous people and we are very grateful for all kind support you have given to the temple. May God's blessing be with you forever.
The money you donate will be spent for Temple Developments and various good causes as defined in our Constitution. Please email us to request a copy of this if you are interested.
Once again Thank you for your generosity.
Hindu Matrimonial Service
Voluntary Wedding / Marriage Free Advisory Service by NCHP
The National Council
of Hindu Priests UK is delighted to offer voluntary Marriage Advisory Service.
The council tries its best in suggesting suitable marriage partners.
Please complete and return Matrimonial Application Form duly completed to Kusum via email kusuml@hotmail.co.uk.
Please complete and return Matrimonial Application Form duly completed to Kusum via email kusuml@hotmail.co.uk.
Rules:
1. Confidentiality is our priority: In the interest of
confidentiality no information will be supplied on the telephone.
2. Details of the person in question will be supplied only by post.
3. In order to obtain particulars of a requested Boy / Girl, write
his / her registration number given on the list along with a self addressed
stamped envelope
4. Contact Address / Telephone number of up to ten persons will be
supplied at one time.
5. Complete list of boy / girl will be supplied to each member every
two months.
6. It is your responsibility to inform the office if your boy / girl
is married.
7. Council committee reserves the right to withdraw its
service from anyone who does not abide by the rules of the council.
Membership open to
all Hindu residents in UK and their immediate families.
Contact Us
Tel: Mandir:+44
(0)121 554 4120 Office:+44 (0)121 523 7797
Registered Charity Number: 258195
Registered Charity Number: 258195
Directions
The
easiest way to get to the temple via public transport is to take bus number 46
from Birmingham City Centre (Colmore Row) or Perry Barr (One Stop). Get off at
the bus stop on the corner of Brecon Road.
See the interactive map below, you can input your postcode to retrieve turn by turn directions to the temple.
See the interactive map below, you can input your postcode to retrieve turn by turn directions to the temple.
From
To Travel
Mode
|
|
Birmingham, West Midlands B20 3BX, UK
|
0.8 mi - about 3 mins
|
1.
|
Head north towards Bragg Rd
|
105 ft
|
|
|
2.
|
Turn left onto Bragg Rd
|
131 ft
|
|
|
3.
|
Turn left onto Birchfield
Rd
|
0.2 mi
|
|
|
4.
|
Keep left to continue on Birchfield
Rd/A34
|
0.2 mi
|
|
|
5.
|
Turn right onto Heathfield
Rd
Destination will be on the right
|
0.4 mi
|
Om
Tat Sat
(Continued...)
(My
humble salutations to the great devotees
and Pilgrimage tourist guide for the
collection)
(The Blog is reverently for all the seekers of truth,
lovers of wisdom and to share the Hindu Dharma with others on the
spiritual path and also this is purely a non-commercial blog)
0 comments:
Post a Comment