Kehana & : Art & Culture https://kehana.in/rss/category/art-culture Kehana & : Art & Culture en Copyright © 2025 Kehana. All rights reserved. The Sacred 12 Jyotirlingas: A Journey Through Lord Shiva's Divine Light https://kehana.in/the-sacred-12-jyotirlingas-a-journey-through-lord-shivas-divine-light https://kehana.in/the-sacred-12-jyotirlingas-a-journey-through-lord-shivas-divine-light

The "12 Jyotirlingas" refer to twelve sacred shrines of Lord Shiva located across India. The word "Jyotirlinga" translates to "lingam of light," symbolizing Lord Shiva's infinite and luminous presence. These sites are believed to be places where Shiva manifested as a fiery column of light.

Visiting these 12 Jyotirlingas is considered a highly auspicious pilgrimage in Hinduism, believed to cleanse sins and lead to spiritual enlightenment. Each Jyotirlinga has its own unique mythological story and significance.


The 12 Jyotirlingas of India

Here's a list of the 12 Jyotirlingas along with their locations:

  1. Somnath Jyotirlinga

    • Location: Prabhas Patan, Gir Somnath, Gujarat
    • Significance: Traditionally considered the first Jyotirlinga, it symbolizes resilience and the eternal nature of Shiva.Somnath temple in Gujarat on a sunny day The Somnath temple located in Veraval in Saurashtra on the western coast of Gujarat, India is believed to be the first among the twelve Jyotirlinga shrines of Shiva. It is an important pilgrimage and tourist spot of Gujarat. Somnath Jyotirlinga stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images
  2. Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga

    • Location: Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh
    • Significance: Situated atop the Nallamala Hills, it signifies the union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati and is also a Shakti Peeth.
    • murdeshwar temple early morning view from a unique angle murdeshwar temple early morning view from a unique angle image is taken at murudeshwar karnataka india at early morning. it is the house of one of the tallest rajagopuram in the world. Mallikarjuna Jyotirlinga stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images
  3. Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga

    • Location: Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh
    • Significance: Known for its unique south-facing idol and the sacred Bhasma Aarti (worship with ash), it represents Shiva as the lord of time and death.
    • Exterior view of Mahakaleshwar Temple, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, India 17 Feb 2005 Exterior view of Mahakaleshwar Temple, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, India, Asia Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images
  4. Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga

    • Location: Mandhata Island (on the Narmada River), Madhya Pradesh
    • Significance: The island itself is shaped like the sacred "Om" symbol, and it's a dual shrine with Amareshwar on the mainland.
    • omkareshwar temple, omkareshwar jyotirlinga photos omkareshwar temple, omkareshwar jyotirlinga photos Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images
  5. Kedarnath Jyotirlinga

    • Location: Kedarnath, Uttarakhand (Garhwal Himalayas)
    • Significance: One of the highest located Jyotirlingas, accessible only for about six months a year due to extreme weather, it's a part of the Char Dham pilgrimage.
    • Kedarnath in India Kedarnath Temple before sunrise, it is a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva, India. Kedarnath Jyotirlinga stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images
  6. Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga

    • Location: Pune district, Maharashtra
    • Significance: Nestled amidst dense forests in the Sahyadri range, it's believed to be where Shiva took the form of Bhima to defeat a demon.jyotirling Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple in foothill of westarn Ghat Near Nasik 31 Mar 2020 jyotirling Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple in foothill of westarn Ghat Near Nasik Maharashtra INDIA Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images
  7. Kashi Vishwanath Jyotirlinga

    • Location: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh
    • Significance: Located in the holy city of Varanasi (Kashi), it's considered one of the most sacred Hindu shrines, believed to grant liberation (moksha).Story Pin image
  8. Trimbakeshwar Jyotirlinga

    • Location: Trimbak, Nashik district, Maharashtra
    • Significance: Unique for its lingam having three faces representing Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva, and it's also near the source of the Godavari River.Story Pin image
  9. Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga

    • Location: Deoghar, Jharkhand
    • Significance: Also known as Baba Baidyanath Dham, it's revered as the "healer" and has connections to the demon king Ravana.Narmada Temple in Amarkantak, Madhya Pradesh, India Pilgrims visit Narmada Temple in Amarkantak, Madhya Pradesh, India. Amarkantak is the origin of Narmada river which is considered a holy river and is lifeline of many Indian states. A temple is dedicated to goddess river Narmada that is considered to be a Hindu pilgrimage. Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images
  10. Nageshwar Jyotirlinga

    • Location: Near Dwarka, Gujarat
    • Significance: Associated with the ancient Darukavana forest, it symbolizes protection from negativity and evil forces.Nageshvara is one of the temples mentioned in the Shiva Purana and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. Nageshvara is one of the temples mentioned in the Shiva Purana and is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas. Nageshwar Jyotirlinga stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images
  11. Ramanathaswamy Jyotirlinga

    • Location: Rameswaram Island, Tamil Nadu
    • Significance: Believed to be established and worshipped by Lord Rama before his journey to Lanka, it's a significant part of the Char Dham pilgrimage.Temple of Srirangapatna Mysore, Karnataka, India - April 25, 2014: Temple inside the fort city of Srirangapatna build by then muslim ruler Tipu Sultan and regarded as holy place in hinduism. It is one of the many symbol of religious harmony in Indian cultural history, It is now a famous tourist destination for even foriegn visitors visiting Mysore. Ramanathaswamy Jyotirlinga stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images
  12. Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga

    • Location: Ellora, near Aurangabad, Maharashtra
    • Significance: Located close to the famous Ellora Caves, it's considered the last of the 12 Jyotirlingas and embodies faith and simplicity. Vintage Old Entrance of Grishneshwar temple 18 Sep 2006 Vintage Old Entrance of Grishneshwar temple-Stone wall and stapes Verul (Ellora) Aurangabad MAHARASHTRA INDIA Asia. Grishneshwar Jyotirlinga stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images

These twelve sites are deeply woven into the fabric of Hindu mythology and spirituality, attracting millions of devotees each year who embark on these sacred journeys to connect with the divine power of Lord Shiva.

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Tue, 10 Jun 2025 15:37:48 +0530 Kehana
Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple: Maharashtra's Sacred Jyotirlinga https://kehana.in/trimbakeshwar-shiva-temple-maharashtras-sacred-jyotirlinga https://kehana.in/trimbakeshwar-shiva-temple-maharashtras-sacred-jyotirlinga There seems to be some confusion when looking for "Trimbakeshwar Temple in Maharashtra," as there are temples in other places that have similar names.  To be clear, here is a breakdown:

 Shiva Temple of Trimbakeshwar:  This Shiva temple is one of Maharashtra's most important and well-known.  It is situated close to Nashik in Trimbak.

This may contain: a person holding up a bowl with flowers in front of an old building on a sunny day

 Being one of the twelve Jyotirlingas, it is a highly significant Hindu pilgrimage site.  It is well-known for its distinctive three-faced linga, which stands for Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma.  It is also where the Godavari River begins.
 Mahadev Temple in Tarkeshwar:  This temple is not in Maharashtra, but rather in Lansdowne, Uttarakhand.  It is tucked away among lush, lovely forests.  Additionally, there is a temple devoted to Lord Shiva.

This may contain: a group of people standing in front of a large building with many spires on it
 The following is the Shree Tarkeshwar Mandir:  In the Pune, Maharashtra, area, there is also a Shree Tarkeshwar Mandir.

 Consequently, it's critical to be particular when searching for information.  You are probably looking for information about the Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple if you are trying to find the well-known temple.

 This is a synopsis of Maharashtra's Trimbakeshwar Shiva Temple:

 It is an old temple with great religious significance.  It is the location of several Hindu rites.  Its architecture is remarkable.  It is situated in a very picturesque region.

 I hope this makes the differences clear.

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Sat, 29 Mar 2025 01:38:43 +0530 Kehana
India's UNESCO World Heritage: Top Sites & Complete List (2024) https://kehana.in/indias-unesco-world-heritage-top-sites-complete-list-2024 https://kehana.in/indias-unesco-world-heritage-top-sites-complete-list-2024 Since each UNESCO World Heritage Site has a different level of value, it is difficult to assign a definitive ranking.  Nevertheless, based on their cultural and historical significance, I can offer a list of ten exceptionally notable and well-liked locations in India:

 Uttar Pradesh's Taj Mahal:  A marvel of Mughal architecture and a representation of unending love.

Taj Mahal Captured in the early morning light, this image showcases the Taj Mahal as it's rarely seen, bathed in the warm glow of the rising sun. With minimal haze, the iconic white marble monument stands in sharp contrast to the sky, fully revealing its intricate design and grandeur. The photograph captures a tranquil moment at one of the world's most celebrated landmarks, offering a unique perspective of the Taj Mahal's timeless beauty.  Uttar Pradesh's Taj Mahal stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images

 Agra Fort (Uttar Pradesh): A strong Mughal stronghold featuring magnificent palaces and buildings.

This may contain: a large brick building with two towers on each side and a walkway leading to the entrance
 Ellora Caves (Maharashtra): An amazing collection of temples carved out of rock that symbolize several religions.

Kailas temple in Ellora caves complex in India Kailas temple in Ellora caves complex, Maharashtra state in India   Ellora Caves (Maharashtra) stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images
 Ajanta Caves (Maharashtra): Beautifully sculpted and painted ancient Buddhist caves.

Tourists visit cave carvings at the Ajanta Caves New Delhi, India - November 15, 2012:Tourists visit cave carvings at the Ajanta Caves  in Aurangabad district of Maharashtra, India, where about 300 rock-cut Buddhist cave monuments date from the 2nd century BCE to about 480 or 650 CE. The site is a protected monument in the care of the Archaeological Survey of India, and since 1983, the Ajanta Caves have been a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Ajanta Caves (Maharashtra) stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images
 The Sun Temple in Konârak, Odisha, is a magnificent architectural wonder that resembles a gigantic chariot.

sun temple odisha konark sun temple odisha   The Sun Temple in Konârak, Odisha,  stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images
 Madhya Pradesh's Khajuraho Group of Monuments: Temples renowned for their exquisite architecture and elaborate sculptures.

Kandariya Mahadev Temple against blue sky in Khajuraho, India The Kandariya Mahadev Temple against blue sky in Khajuraho, India   Madhya Pradesh's Khajuraho Group of Monuments stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images

                                                                                                                                                                                                     

                                                                                                                                                                                                                 Hampi (Karnataka): The intriguing historical location of the Vijayanagara Empire's ruins.

Achyuta Raya Temple,Hampi,Karnataka,India. Tempel ruin landscape in World UNESCO heritage sight.  Hampi (Karnataka) stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images
 Kaziranga National Park (Assam):  An essential wildlife habitat, particularly for the one-horned rhinoceros.

Great Indian Rhino Kaziranga National Park, Assam, India. Nov 4th 2013. A Rhino and her calf cross a road in Kaziranga while tourists in a jeep snap photographs.  Kaziranga National Park (Assam) stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images

Qutb Minar and its Monuments, Delhi: An example of early Indo-Islamic architecture.

Qutub Minar Delhi India Qutub Minar Complex and Qutab Minaret Tower. The Qutub Minar was constructed in the year 1192 out of red sandstone and marble.Is the tallest minaret in India, with a height of 72.5 meters (237.8 feet). Qutub Minar, Delhi, India. Qutb Minar and its Monuments, Delhi stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images


 Rajasthan's Hill Forts: A number of striking forts that highlight Rajput military architecture.

Fort walls of Jaipur Walls of the fort in Jaipur overlooking the city during sunrise  Rajasthan's Hill Forts stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images

 These locations are crucial for any traveler since they embody India's diverse cultural, historical, and environmental history.

There are 43 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India, based on the information that is currently accessible.  India's rich natural and cultural legacy is reflected in this figure.  Important things to keep in mind:

 India boasts a wide range of sites, encompassing mixed, natural, and cultural categories.  As additional places are added by UNESCO, the number of sites may vary.

  "Moidams – the Mound-Burial System of the Ahom Dynasty" in Assam, 2024, is the most recent addition.

 Thus, there are currently forty-three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in India.

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Sun, 23 Mar 2025 19:27:46 +0530 Kehana
A Popular Hindu Pilgrimage Destination: The Kamakhya Temple https://kehana.in/a-popular-hindu-pilgrimage-destination-the-kamakhya-temple https://kehana.in/a-popular-hindu-pilgrimage-destination-the-kamakhya-temple A popular Hindu pilgrimage destination is the Kamakhya Temple, which is perched atop Nilachal Hill in Guwahati, Assam. Ten important facts regarding this hallowed shrine are as follows:

1. In honor of Goddess Shakti: Goddess Kamakhya, a manifestation of Goddess Shakti, the holy feminine energy, is worshipped in the temple.

Kamakhya Temple In the bank of mighty river Brahmaputra at Nilachal Hill (Guwahati, Assam, India) lies Kamakhya Temple. This is one of the oldest Shakti peeth (Temple) among the 51 shakti peethas and also the center of Tantric practice (Black Magic).  The annual festival that celebrates, the yearly menstruation cycle of the goddess Maa Kamakhya, known as Ambubachi  Mela. This yearly festival is celebrated during the monsoon season dated 7th of Ahaar (Assamese Month) or June 22. This Picture is Kamakhya Temple Picture during Ambubachi Mela. Location Guwahati, Assam, India. The Kamakhya Temple stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images


2. the fifty-one Shakti Peethas: It is regarded as one of the most significant of the 51 Shakti Peethas, which are holy locations where it is thought that pieces of Goddess Sati's corpse fell following her self-immolation.

3. The Distinct Menstruating Goddess: The unusual idea that the Goddess Kamakhya goes through her menstrual cycle once a year is what makes the temple famous. Since the Goddess is thought to be menstruating, the temple is closed for three days during the Ambubachi Mela.Large number of devotees sitting on the stairs in Kamakhya temple complex during Ambubachi mela. Guwahati, India - June 23, 2018: Large number of devotees sitting on the stairs in Kamakhya temple complex during Ambubachi mela. The Kamakhya Temple stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images

4. No worship of idols: The Kamakhya Temple lacks an idol, in contrast to the majority of Hindu temples. Rather, a naturally occurring rock structure symbolizes the Goddess's yoni, or feminine reproductive organ.

5. The Mela of Ambubachi: An important occasion at the temple is this yearly celebration, which takes place during the monsoon season. During this season, devotees think that taking a bath in the red waters of the Brahmaputra River will purify them and bring them benefits.holly bell many at ancient temple for religious chanting holly bell many at ancient temple for religious chanting image is showing the musical instrument for chanting of mantra at temple. The Kamakhya Temple stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images

6. Traditions of Tantric: Tantric rituals and practices, which center on the veneration of the divine feminine force, are linked to the temple.

7. Historical Importance: The rich history of the Kamakhya Temple begins in the eighth century. Over the ages, it has undergone numerous renovations and reconstructions.

8. Marvelous Architecture: The main temple, lesser shrines, and a lovely pond are all part of the temple complex's elaborate construction.

9. Pilgrimage Destination: The Kamakhya Temple is one of the most visited pilgrimage locations in India, with millions of devotees visiting it year. Kamakhya Temple, Mlechchha dynasty, Nilachal Hill, Guwahati, Assam Kamakhya Temple, Mlechchha dynasty, Nilachal Hill, Guwahati, Assam The Kamakhya Temple stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images

10. Symbol of Empowerment and Fertility: The temple is regarded as a representation of fertility, female strength, and the cyclical nature of existence. Devotees looking for blessings for childbirth, wealth, and spiritual enlightenment are drawn to it.

Extra Advice:

October through March is the ideal time of year to visit Kamakhya Temple.
The temple is closed for three days during the Ambubachi Mela.
It is best to reserve your lodging in advance, particularly during the busiest times of the year.
Since there might not be many ATMs close to the shrine, bring cash.
Observe the traditions and customs of the area.
The following websites are useful for travel planning:

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Tue, 21 Jan 2025 00:53:35 +0530 Kehana
The Booker Prize: A Literary Legacy https://kehana.in/the-booker-prize-a-literary-legacy https://kehana.in/the-booker-prize-a-literary-legacy Every year, the best original English-language novel published in the UK or Ireland is the recipient of the renowned Booker Prize. 

Here is a synopsis of the main points:


Qualifications: Original English-language novels are required. must be released in the United Kingdom or Ireland in the year of the award.Happy couple looking at playbill in theater lobby   Booker Prize stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images

Judging Process:  The winner is chosen by a panel of judges, usually composed of authors, scholars, and other literary personalities. A longlist, a shortlist, and the selection of the winning novel are the steps in the process.Collection of books by Vladimir Nabokov in Penguin Classics editions Kendal, UK - September 2, 2013: Close-up of a collection of Vladimir Nabokov's autobiography, novels and short stories in the Penguin Classics and Penguin Twentieth-Century Classics editions, including the titles Speak, Memory (1967) and Lolita (1959).  Booker Prize stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images

The impact is as follows: A winner's career and book sales are greatly enhanced by receiving the Booker Prize. It gives the author and their work recognition on a global scale.Audience cheering in theater   Booker Prize stock pictures, royalty-free photos & images

Established in 1969 as the Booker Prize for Fiction, this award has a lengthy history. Afterwards, it was called the Man Booker Prize, and today it is just called the Booker Prize.

In the English-speaking world, the Booker Prize is regarded as one of the most significant literary honors.

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Mon, 06 Jan 2025 00:54:32 +0530 Kehana
Booker Prize Buzz: Get Ready for a Literary Feast! https://kehana.in/booker-prize-buzz-get-ready-for-a-literary-feast https://kehana.in/booker-prize-buzz-get-ready-for-a-literary-feast The Booker Prize: Get Ready for a Literary Extravaganza!

Readers, take note! Once again, the Man Booker Prize, a significant occasion in the literary world, is approaching.  The excitement is palpable as this esteemed prize honors the best English-language books!


A Worldwide Platform for Narrative

The Booker Prize is an international award. Originally restricted to books published in the Commonwealth of Nations, it now accepts books written by any nationality and published in the UK or Ireland. Due to this openness, a wider variety of tales have been told, elevating the voices of people from across the world.

The Excitement of Being Selected

The writers who made the short list are eagerly awaiting the much awaited news. Their brilliance and commitment are demonstrated by each nomination, which catapults them into the literary limelight. The books that make up the shortlist are carefully chosen to provide readers the opportunity to delve into unusual cultures, discover a wide variety of genres, and connect with enduring characters.

Exceeding the Champion

A substantial monetary award and worldwide acclaim await the eventual winner, but the real beauty of the Booker award is the attention it affords to a wide range of outstanding works. It's a venue for up-and-coming writers to get recognition and for seasoned writers to bolster their careers.

Take Part in the Literary Excitation!

How to get in on the Booker Prize excitement is as follows:

Dive into previous shortlists. Discover the literary treasures that the Booker Prize has honored in the past.

 Watch this space for the announcement of the shortlist. Be among the first to learn who is vying for the top prize this year.
Start a book club centered around the shortlisted novels. Talk about the topics, characters, and writing styles with other book enthusiasts.

 Follow the Booker Prize online.  Get the most recent news and updates straight from the source.

The Booker Prize is a celebration of literature in all its depth and diversity, not just an award ceremony. So be sure to put the Booker Prize on your calendars, make your reading lists, and get ready to be blown away by the amazing talent it reveals! 

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Sat, 13 Apr 2024 23:44:25 +0530 Kehana
Unlocking the Power of Minerals: Top 5 Foods for a Healthier You https://kehana.in/unlocking-the-power-of-minerals-top-5-foods-for-a-healthier-you https://kehana.in/unlocking-the-power-of-minerals-top-5-foods-for-a-healthier-you Minerals are essential vitamins that play a important duty in differing bodily functions, containing cartilage energy, nerve broadcast, and something which incites activity incitement. Incorporating mineral-rich cookings into your diet is alive for asserting overall well-being. Here are the top 5 not organic-rich meals:

  1. Spinach : Spinach is a powerful of mineral, specifically iron, calcium, and magnesium. Iron is alive for moving oxygen hereditary, while calcium and magnesium are essential for powerful cartilages and influence function.

2. Salmon : Salmon is not only a excellent beginning of end-3 fatty acids but more holds selenium and iodine. Selenium is essential for antioxidant justification, and iodine is critical for thyroid birth control method result, that manages absorption.

3. Almonds : Almonds are full accompanying mineral like magnesium, calcium, and planet seen at dawn. Magnesium supports nerve function and influence entertainment, while calcium and planet seen at dawn are essential for healthful cartilages and teeth.

4. Beans and Lentils : Beans and lentils are rich in mineral to a degree potassium, magnesium, and iron. Potassium helps claim active ancestry pressure, magnesium supports influence and nerve function, and iron is essential for oxygen transport.

5. Quinoa : Quinoa is a seed-like source that boasts an powerful not organic sketch, containing magnesium, manganese, and planet seen at dawn. Manganese plays a duty in cartilage establishment and wound curative, while planet seen at dawn is essential for strong cartilages and dentition.

Incorporating these not organic-rich snacks into your diet can help guarantee you meet your regular not organic necessities. However, it's owned by assert a equalized diet that involves a difference of meals to guarantee you take all the essential mineral your corpse needs for optimal strength.

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Tue, 12 Sep 2023 15:39:20 +0530 Kehana