A. Few Sanatan Dharama Gods & their mantra Japa for reference:

In Sanatan Dharma, each deity is associated with specific mantras (Japa) that devotees chant to invoke their blessings, protection, and guidance. Here are some prominent deities and their associated mantras:

1. Lord Ganesha: Known as the remover of obstacles and the deity of beginnings.

   • Mantra: "Om Gan Ganapataye Namah"

   • Meaning: Salutations to Lord Ganesha.

   • Benefits: Chanting this mantra is believed to remove obstacles and bring success in new endeavors.

2. Lord Shiva: The destroyer and transformer among the Trimurti.

   • Mantra: "Om Namah Shivaya"

   • Meaning: I bow to Lord Shiva.

   • Benefits: This mantra is thought to purify the soul and promote inner peace.

3. Goddess Durga: The divine mother and protector against evil.

   • Mantra: "Om Dum Durgayei Namaha"

   • Meaning: Salutations to the compassionate Goddess Durga.

   • Benefits: Chanting this mantra is believed to provide protection and strength.

4. Lord Vishnu: The preserver and protector of the universe.

   • Mantra: "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya"

   • Meaning: I bow to Lord Vishnu.

   • Benefits: This mantra is thought to bring spiritual growth and protection.

5. Goddess Lakshmi: The goddess of wealth and prosperity.

   • Mantra: "Om Shreem Mahalakshmiyei Namaha"

   • Meaning: Salutations to the great Goddess Lakshmi.

   • Benefits: Chanting this mantra is believed to attract abundance and prosperity.

6. Lord Hanuman: The embodiment of devotion and strength.

   • Mantra: "Om Hanumate Namah"

   • Meaning: Salutations to Lord Hanuman.

   • Benefits: This mantra is thought to bestow courage and remove fears.

7. Goddess Saraswati: The goddess of knowledge and arts.

   • Mantra: "Om Aim Saraswatyai Namaha"

   • Meaning: Salutations to Goddess Saraswati.

   • Benefits: Chanting this mantra is believed to enhance wisdom and creativity.

Regular recitation of these mantras with devotion and sincerity is believed to invoke the blessings of the respective deities, leading to spiritual and material benefits.

B. Few Trees ( Vrikshah in sanskrit) & their worship connected with Sanatan Dharma:

In Sanatan Dharma, several trees are revered for their spiritual significance, each associated with specific deities and rituals. Chanting (Japa) and other devotional practices connected to these sacred trees are believed to invoke divine blessings. Here are some prominent examples:

1. Peepal Tree (Ficus religiosa):

   • Significance: Also known as the Ashvattha tree, it symbolizes the trinity of Brahma (roots), Vishnu (trunk), and Shiva (leaves).

   • Associated Deity: Lord Vishnu.

   • Japa: Devotees often circumambulate the tree while chanting "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya" to seek blessings and spiritual enlightenment.

2. Bel Tree (Aegle marmelos):

   • Significance: Known as the Bilva tree, its trifoliate leaves represent Lord Shiva's three eyes and are considered highly sacred.

   • Associated Deity: Lord Shiva.

   • Japa: Offering Bilva leaves to Shiva while chanting the Mahamrityunjaya Mantra—"Om Tryambakam Yajamahe Sugandhim Pushtivardhanam"—is believed to please the deity and grant protection.

3. Banyan Tree (Ficus benghalensis):

   • Significance: Symbolizes immortality and is associated with multiple deities, including Shiva, Vishnu, Brahma, Kali, Lakshmi, and Kubera.

   • Associated Deities: Shiva, Vishnu, Brahma, Kali, Lakshmi, Kubera.

   • Japa: Devotees meditate under the Banyan tree, chanting mantras like "Om Namah Shivaya" or "Om Namo Narayanaya" to seek longevity and spiritual wisdom.

4. Tulsi Plant (Ocimum sanctum):

   • Significance: Revered as a manifestation of Goddess Lakshmi and considered the holiest of plants in Hinduism.

   • Associated Deity: Lord Vishnu.

   • Japa: Chanting the Tulsi mantra—"Om Subhadrayai Namah"—while watering or circumambulating the plant is believed to bring prosperity and divine grace.

5. Neem Tree (Azadirachta indica):

   • Significance: Known for its medicinal properties and considered a purifier.

   • Associated Deity: Goddess Durga.

   • Japa: Devotees chant "Om Dum Durgayei Namaha" under the Neem tree to seek protection and health.

6. Banana Tree (Musa spp.):

   • Significance: Symbolizes prosperity and fertility; its leaves and fruits are used in various rituals.

   • Associated Deities: Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi.

   • Japa: Offering prayers to the Banana tree while chanting "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya" is believed to invoke prosperity.

7. Mango Tree (Mangifera indica):

   • Significance: Represents love and fertility; its leaves are used in religious ceremonies.

   • Associated Deity: Lord Ganesha.

   • Japa: Decorating the entrance with mango leaves and chanting "Om Gan Ganapataye Namah" is believed to remove obstacles.

Engaging in these devotional practices fosters a deeper connection between devotees and the divine, emphasizing the sacred bond between nature and spirituality in Sanatan Dharma.

C. Foods (Aaharah in sanskrit)

In Sanatan Dharma, food is deeply intertwined with spirituality, health, and ethics. The tradition classifies food into three primary categories—Sattvic, Rajasic, and Tamasic—each influencing the body and mind in distinct ways.

1. Sattvic Food:

• Characteristics: Pure, light, and nourishing foods that promote clarity, calmness, and spiritual growth.

• Examples: Fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, dairy products, and legumes.

• Significance: Consuming Sattvic foods is believed to purify the mind and body, fostering virtues like compassion and wisdom. Such a diet is often adopted by individuals seeking spiritual advancement.
   

2. Rajasic Food:

• Characteristics: Stimulating and spicy foods that can increase activity and restlessness.

• Examples: Spicy dishes, caffeinated beverages, onions, garlic, and excessively salty or sour foods.

• Significance: Rajasic foods are thought to fuel passion and desire, potentially leading to mental agitation. While they may enhance energy and drive, overconsumption can disrupt mental equilibrium.
   

3. Tamasic Food:

• Characteristics: Heavy, stale, or processed foods that may dull the mind and induce lethargy.

• Examples: Overripe or decaying foods, meat, alcohol, and fermented items.

• Significance: Tamasic foods are believed to cloud judgment and impede spiritual progress. They can contribute to inertia and negative emotions, hindering both physical and mental well-being.
   

Cultural Practices:

According to the Sanatan Dharma rituals, offering food to deities is a common practice. The sanctified offering, known as prasada, is distributed among devotees, symbolizing divine grace and the sharing of blessings.

By aligning dietary choices with these principles, practitioners aim to harmonize their physical health with spiritual aspirations, recognizing food as a vital component of a balanced and meaningful life.

D.Few Birds & Animals (Pakshi & Pasu)

According to Sanatan Dharma, birds hold profound symbolic and spiritual significance, often serving as vehicles (vahanas) for deities or embodying specific virtues. Here are some notable examples:

1. Garuda (Eagle):

• Association: Garuda is the mighty eagle and serves as the vehicle of Lord Vishnu.

• Symbolism: Garuda represents strength, courage, and unwavering devotion.

2. Peacock(Mayura):

• Association: The peacock is the vehicle of Lord Kartikeya (also known as Murugan), the god of war.

• Symbolism: The peacock symbolizes beauty, grace, and pride.

3. Swan (Hamsa):

• Association: The swan is the vehicle of Goddess Saraswati, the deity of knowledge, music, and arts.

• Symbolism: The swan signifies purity, wisdom, and the ability to discern truth from illusion.

4. Owl(Uluka):

• Association: The owl is considered the vehicle of Goddess Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity.

• Symbolism: The owl represents wisdom and the ability to see beyond deception.

5. Parrot(Suka):

• Association: The parrot is associated with Kamadeva, the god of love.

• Symbolism: The parrot embodies love, passion, and the vibrancy of life.

6. Vultures (Jatayu and Sampati):

• Association: In the epic Ramayana, Jatayu and Sampati are two vulture brothers who play crucial roles.

• Symbolism: They represent bravery and sacrifice.

 7. Lion(Simha):

• Narasimha: One of Lord Vishnu's ten incarnations (dashavatara) is Narasimha, depicted with a human body and a lion's head. This form was assumed to protect his devotee Prahlada and to vanquish the demon king Hiranyakashipu, symbolizing the triumph of devotion and righteousness over evil.

• Goddess Durga: The lion serves as the vahana (vehicle) of Goddess Durga, the warrior aspect of the Divine Mother. Riding a lion, Durga embodies courage and strength, signifying her role as the protector against evil forces.

8. Monkey(Vanara):

• Hanuman: The monkey god Hanuman is a central figure in the epic Ramayana. Renowned for his unwavering devotion to Lord Rama, immense strength, and wisdom, Hanuman symbolizes selfless service, humility, and the power of devotion.

• Vanaras: In the Ramayana, the Vanaras are a race of monkey-like beings who assist Lord Rama in his quest to rescue Sita. Leaders like Sugriva and Angada are often referred to as "lions among monkeys," highlighting their exceptional leadership and valor.

9. The COW (GO or GOMATHA)

According to Sanatan Dharma, cows are considered sacred, representing divine and natural beneficence, and are associated with deities like Krishna and Kamadhenu, the wish-granting cow, symbolizing wealth, strength, and maternal love. 

Here's a more detailed explanation:

• Sacredness and Symbolism:
  The cow holds a revered status in Hinduism, symbolizing divine and natural beneficence, and is often seen as a maternal figure. 

• Association with Deities:
  Cows are associated with various deities, including Krishna (often depicted as a cowherd), Shiva (whose steed is Nandi, a bull), and goddesses, reflecting their maternal attributes. 

• Kamadhenu:
  Kamadhenu, the "wish-granting cow," is a prominent figure in Hindu mythology, representing prosperity and abundance. 

• Vedic Origins:
  The veneration of the cow can be traced back to the Vedic period (2nd millennium–7th century BCE). 

• Cultural Significance:
  Cows are often depicted in art and literature, and milk and ghee (clarified butter) derived from cows are essential elements in Hindu worship, penance, and rites of passage. 

• Practical Benefits:
  In ancient India, cows were crucial for survival, providing milk, dung for fuel and fertilizer, and oxen for plowing. 

• Modern Practices:
  While many Hindus are not vegetarians, most respect the code of abstaining from eating beef, and cows are often allowed to roam freely in some places. 

• Gaushalas:
  Charitable institutions called Gaushalas care for old and infirm cows in India. 

• Ahimsa:
  The cow's docile nature exemplifies the Sanatan Dharama virtue of non-injury, known as ahimsa. 

    These associations create a   deep reverence for nature and its creatures within the Sanatan Dharma, reflecting the belief in the interconnectedness of all life.

E.Colour(VARNA In Sanskrit)

According to Sanatan Dharma, colors are imbued with profound symbolic meanings, each representing specific qualities, deities, and aspects of life. Here's an overview of some significant colors and their associations:

1. Saffron (Orange) (Narangah):

• Symbolism: Saffron, or deep orange, is considered sacred and represents purity, spirituality, and the quest for light and salvation. It is the color of fire, which burns away impurities.

• Usage: Saffron is prominently featured in the attire of Hindu monks and ascetics, symbolizing their renunciation of worldly possessions and dedication to spiritual pursuits. It also holds a place of honor in the Indian national flag, representing courage and selflessness.
   

2. Red(Rakta):

• Symbolism: Red signifies both sensuality and purity. It is associated with power, passion, and fertility.

• Usage: Red is prevalent in auspicious occasions such as marriages and festivals. Brides often wear red saris, and a red mark (tilak or bindi) is applied on the forehead during religious ceremonies. Married women traditionally apply red powder (sindoor) in their hair parting as a symbol of their marital status.
   

3. White(Swetha):

• Symbolism: White embodies purity, peace, and knowledge.

• Usage: Goddess Saraswati, the deity of wisdom and learning, is often depicted in white attire, seated on a white lotus. White is also associated with the Brahmin caste and is worn during rites of passage and religious rituals.
   

4. Yellow:(Piita)

• Symbolism: Yellow represents knowledge and learning. It is also associated with happiness and peace.

• Usage: The color is linked to Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna, who are often portrayed wearing yellow garments. During the spring festival of Vasant Panchami, devotees wear yellow to honor Saraswati.
   

5. Green(Harita):

• Symbolism: Green denotes life, nature, and harmony.

• Usage: It is associated with festivities and is considered a festive color. Green symbolizes the natural world and is often used in decorations during religious celebrations.
   

6. Blue(Niila):

• Symbolism: Blue signifies bravery, determination, and the vastness of the sky and sea.

• Usage: Deities like Lord Krishna and Lord Rama are depicted with blue skin, symbolizing their divine nature and infinite attributes.
   

7. Black(Krishna varna):

• Symbolism: Black is generally considered inauspicious and is associated with darkness and negativity.

• Usage: However, in certain contexts, black is used to ward off evil. For instance, a black mark is sometimes applied to infants to protect them from malevolent forces.

F.Directions(Disha) in Sanskrit):

According to Sanatan Dharma, the cardinal directions hold profound symbolic and spiritual significance, each associated with specific deities, elements, and aspects of life. The concept of the Dikpalas or Ashtadikpalakas refers to the deities who guard and govern the eight primary directions. Understanding these associations provides insight into the cosmological and ritualistic frameworks of Sanatan Dharma tradition.

The Eight Directions and Their Guardians:

1. East (Purva):

• • Guardian Deity: Indra

  • Symbolism: Indra, the king of the gods and ruler of the heavens, governs the east. This direction is associated with beginnings, illumination, and spiritual enlightenment.

2. Southeast (Agneya):

• • Guardian Deity: Agni

  • Symbolism: Agni, the fire god, presides over the southeast. This direction symbolizes energy, transformation, and purification.

3. South (Dakshina):

• • Guardian Deity: Yama

  • Symbolism: Yama, the god of death and justice, rules the south. It represents the end of life cycles, discipline, and ethical living.

4. Southwest (Nairitya):

• • Guardian Deity: Nirrti

  • Symbolism: Nirrti, the goddess of destruction and dissolution, governs the southwest. This direction is linked to decay, obstacles, and the transformative aspects of life.

5. West (Paschima):

• • Guardian Deity: Varuna

  • Symbolism: Varuna, the god of water and cosmic order, presides over the west. It signifies depth, introspection, and the vastness of the subconscious.

6. Northwest (Vayavya):

• • Guardian Deity: Vayu

  • Symbolism: Vayu, the wind god, rules the northwest. This direction embodies movement, change, and communication.

7. North (Uttara):

• • Guardian Deity: Kubera

  • Symbolism: Kubera, the god of wealth and prosperity, governs the north. It is associated with abundance, growth, and material well-being.

8. Northeast (Ishanya):

• • Guardian Deity: Ishana (a form of Shiva)

  • Symbolism: Ishana, representing the supreme god Shiva, presides over the northeast. This direction symbolizes spiritual wisdom, clarity, and divine inspiration.

G.(Varnasrama) Social Clasification :

The Stages & Social Classes according to Sanatan Dharma Concept .

1.What are the four Varnas? 

• Brahmins: A class of priests, teachers, and advisors

• Kshatriyas: A class of soldiers, administrators, and merchants

• Vaishyas: A mercantile class, such as farmers

• Shudras: A social class

Varṇāśrama Dharma & Its Significance in Sanatan Dharma:

Varṇāśrama Dharma is a fundamental concept in Sanatan Dharma,  that integrates the principles of Varṇa (social order) and Āśrama (stages of life) to guide individuals toward a righteous and fulfilling life. It emphasizes duty (Dharma), righteousness, and spiritual progression while maintaining societal harmony.

1. Varṇa System (Social Classification)

The Varṇa system classifies society into four groups based on occupation and duties, not merely by birth but by Guna (qualities) and Karma (actions):

1. Brāhmaṇa (Teachers, Priests, Scholars)

   • Duties: Preserving and teaching Vedic knowledge, performing rituals, advising on Dharma

   • Qualities: Knowledge, wisdom, truthfulness, non-violence, simplicity

   • Significance: Spiritual and intellectual guidance to society

2. Kṣatriya (Rulers, Warriors, Administrators)

   • Duties: Governance, protection of people, maintaining justice and order

   • Qualities: Courage, strength, leadership, righteousness

   • Significance: Ensures security, law, and welfare of society

3. Vaiśya (Merchants, Agriculturists, Businessmen)

   • Duties: Trade, agriculture, cattle-rearing, wealth creation, charity

   • Qualities: Industriousness, honesty, wealth management, generosity

   • Significance: Economic prosperity and resource distribution

4. Śūdra (Service Providers, Artisans, Laborers)

   • Duties: Skilled labor, craftsmanship, assisting other varṇas

   • Qualities: Hard work, humility, dedication, service-mindedness

   • Significance: Ensures smooth functioning of society through essential services

🔹 Misconceptions:

• The Varṇa ashrama system was originally based on abilities and duties (Guna-Karma), not by birth.

• Over the time modern thinkers have given a different dimension to Varnashrama system,  thereby leading to societal distortions , rigid caste divisions, etc.,  which are definitely not in line with the original spiritual intent or import of Sanatan Dharma scriptures.

2.What are the four Ashramas? 

• Brahmacharya: Student life

• Grihastha: Family life

• Vanaprastha: Retired life

• Sannyasa: Spiritual life

Āśramas & Their Significance in Sanatan Dharma:

The Āśrama System is an ancient Sanatan Dharma concept that divides human life into four stages, each with distinct responsibilities and goals. These stages aim to create a structured and purposeful life, balancing material and spiritual pursuits.

The Four Āśramas

1. Brahmacharya (Student Stage)

   • Age: Birth to 25 years

   • Focus: Education, discipline, and self-control

   • Duties:

     • Learning Vedas, scriptures, and essential life skills

     • Practicing celibacy and developing character

     • Respecting teachers (Guru) and elders

     • Developing physical, mental, and spiritual strength

     Significance: Lays the foundation for future responsibilities and moral values

2. Gṛhastha (Householder Stage)

   • Age: 25 to 50 years

   • Focus: Family life, earning a livelihood, and social duties

   • Duties:

     • • Marriage, raising children, and supporting society

       • Pursuing Artha (wealth) and Kāma (desires) within Dharma (righteousness)

       • Offering hospitality, charity, and performing religious rites

Significance: The most crucial stage, sustaining society through responsible living

 3. Vānaprastha (Retirement Stage)

2. • Age: 50 to 75 years

   • Focus: Detachment from material life, spiritual contemplation

   • Duties:

     • • Gradually handing over responsibilities to the next generation

       • Spending more time in meditation, scriptures, and pilgrimage

       • Reducing worldly attachments and preparing for renunciation

Significance: Transition from worldly duties to spiritual pursuits

3. Sannyāsa (Renunciation Stage)

   • Age: 75 years & beyond (or earlier for spiritually inclined individuals)

   • Focus: Complete renunciation, self-realization, and seeking Moksha (liberation)

   • Duties:

     • • • Leaving behind all material possessions and relationships

         • Dedicating life to spiritual enlightenment and service to humanity

         • Practicing deep meditation and devotion to the Divine

         • Significance: The final stage, leading to liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Relevance of the Āśrama System in Modern Life

• Encourages discipline and self-growth from an early age

• Emphasizes responsible family life and societal contribution

• Promotes gradual detachment to lead a balanced and meaningful life

• Offers a structured approach to spiritual and personal development

The Āśrama system is a timeless framework guiding individuals toward a harmonious and fulfilling life, integrating duty, desire, and spiritual wisdom.

H.Sarira Anga( Body Parts)

According to Sanatan Dharma , various deities are believed to be presiding over specific organs and functions of the human body, symbolizing the interconnectedness of the divine and the corporeal. These associations are detailed in several ancient texts, including the Vedas and Upanishads.

 Notable connections include:

• Hands: Indra, the king of the gods, is associated with the hands, representing action and power.

• Feet: Vishnu, the preserver deity, is linked to the feet, symbolizing support and movement.

• Eyes: Surya, the sun god, governs the eyes, denoting vision and enlightenment.

• Ears: Chandra, the moon god, is connected to the ears, representing receptivity and hearing.

• Mouth and Tongue: Varuna, the deity of water, is associated with the mouth and tongue, signifying speech and taste.

• Mind: The moon is also linked to the mind, reflecting its influence on emotions and thoughts.

• Personality (Ahamkara): Rudra, a form of Shiva, is connected to the sense of self or ego.

• Sexual Organs: Prajapati, the lord of creation, presides over the reproductive organs, symbolizing procreation.

These associations underscore the belief that the divine permeates every aspect of human existence, with each organ functioning under the guidance of a specific deity. Such correlations are elaborated in texts like the Subala Upanishad, which emphasizes the divinity inherent in various bodily organ.

Understanding these connections offers insight into how Hinduism perceives the human body as a microcosm of the universe, with each part reflecting a facet of the divine.

I.Thithi (days)

According to Sanatan Dharma, each Tithi (lunar day) is associated with specific deities, and understanding these associations is essential for determining auspicious times for various rituals and ceremonies. Here's a detailed overview of the Tithis and their corresponding deities:

• Pratipada (1st Tithi):

  • Deity: Agni (Fire God)

  • Significance: Auspicious for initiating new ventures and performing religious ceremonies.

• Dwitiya (2nd Tithi):

  • Deity: Ashwini Kumaras (Twin Gods)

  • Significance: Ideal for health-related activities and treatments.

• Tritiya (3rd Tithi):

  • Deity: Gauri (Goddess Parvati)

  • Significance: Suitable for activities related to beauty, adornment, and cultural pursuits.

• Chaturthi (4th Tithi):

  • Deity: Ganesha (Remover of Obstacles)

  • Significance: Ideal for overcoming challenges and seeking blessings for new beginnings.

• Panchami (5th Tithi):

  • Deity: Saraswati (Goddess of Knowledge)

  • Significance: Favorable for educational endeavors and artistic pursuits.

• Shashthi (6th Tithi):

  • Deity: Kartikeya (God of War)

  • Significance: Ideal for martial activities and ceremonies involving children.

• Saptami (7th Tithi):

  • Deity: Surya (Sun God)

  • Significance: Auspicious for health-related activities and initiating travel.

• Ashtami (8th Tithi):

  • Deity: Vasus (Deities of Natural Wealth)

  • Significance: Suitable for fortification, defense activities, and studying arts.

• Navami (9th Tithi):

  • Deity: Nagendra (Serpent God)

  • Significance: Ideal for competitions, debates, and physical exercises.

• Dashami (10th Tithi):

  • Deity: Dharma (God of Righteousness)

  • Significance: Auspicious for completing work, government-related activities, and marriages.

• Ekadashi (11th Tithi):

  • Deity: Rudra (Form of Shiva)

  • Significance: Known for fasting and spiritual practices to attain purity.

• Dwadashi (12th Tithi):

  • Deity: Aditya (Sun God)

  • Significance: Ideal for religious observances and charity.

• Trayodashi (13th Tithi):

  • Deity: Manmatha (God of Love)

  • Significance: Suitable for marital activities and social engagements.

• Chaturdashi (14th Tithi):

  • Deity: Kali (Goddess of Destruction)

  • Significance: Ideal for penance and rituals seeking transformation.

• Purnima (Full Moon Day):

  • Deity: Chandra (Moon God)

  • Significance: A time for celebrating fullness and performing sacred rites.

• Amavasya (New Moon Day):

  • Deity: Pitru Devatas (Ancestral Spirits)

  • Significance: Suitable for honoring ancestors and performing rites for departed souls.

J.Nakshatra(Star or Birth Star)

In Sanatan Dharma, according to vedic astrology , the celestial sphere is divided into 27 segments known as Nakshatras or lunar mansions. Each Nakshatra spans 13°20' of the ecliptic and is associated with specific deities, symbols, and characteristics. These associations play a crucial role in determining the auspiciousness of activities and the traits of individuals born under each Nakshatra. Here's an overview of the 27 Nakshatras and their corresponding deities:

1. Ashwini

   • Deity: Ashwini Kumaras (Twin horsemen, physicians of the gods)

   • Symbol: Horse's head

2. Bharani

   • Deity: Yama (God of death)

   • Symbol: Yoni (female reproductive organ)

3. Krittika

   • Deity: Agni (God of fire)

   • Symbol: Knife or spear

4. Rohini

   • Deity: Brahma (The creator)

   • Symbol: Chariot or cart

5. Mrigashira

   • Deity: Soma (Moon god)

   • Symbol: Deer's head

6. Ardra

   • Deity: Rudra (A form of Shiva)

   • Symbol: Teardrop or diamond

7. Punarvasu

   • Deity: Aditi (Mother of the gods)

   • Symbol: Bow and quiver

8. Pushya

   • Deity: Brihaspati (Guru of the gods)

   • Symbol: Cow's udder or lotus

9. Ashlesha

   • Deity: Nagas (Serpent deities)

   • Symbol: Coiled snake

10. Magha

    • Deity: Pitris (Ancestors)

    • Symbol: Royal throne

11. Purva Phalguni

    • Deity: Bhaga (God of prosperity)

    • Symbol: Hammock or front legs of a bed

12. Uttara Phalguni

    • Deity: Aryaman (God of patronage)

    • Symbol: Back legs of a bed

13. Hasta

    • Deity: Savitar (Sun god)

    • Symbol: Hand or fist

14. Chitra

    • Deity: Tvashtar (Divine architect)

    • Symbol: Bright jewel or pearl

15. Swati

    • Deity: Vayu (Wind god)

    • Symbol: Young plant shoot or coral

16. Vishakha

    • Deity: Indra-Agni (Dual deities of rain and fire)

    • Symbol: Triumphal arch or potter's wheel

17. Anuradha

    • Deity: Mitra (God of friendship)

    • Symbol: Lotus flower

18. Jyeshtha

    • Deity: Indra (King of the gods)

    • Symbol: Circular amulet or umbrella

19. Mula

    • Deity: Nirriti (Goddess of destruction)

    • Symbol: Bunch of roots tied together

20. Purva Ashadha

    • Deity: Apas (Water deities)

    • Symbol: Elephant tusk or fan

21. Uttara Ashadha

    • Deity: Vishwa Devas (Universal gods)

    • Symbol: Planks of a bed

22. Shravana

    • Deity: Vishnu (Preserver of the universe)

    • Symbol: Ear or three footprints

23. Dhanishta

    • Deity: Vasu (Deities of wealth)

    • Symbol: Musical drum or flute

24. Shatabhisha

    • Deity: Varuna (God of cosmic waters)

    • Symbol: Empty circle or hundred physicians

25. Purva Bhadrapada

    • Deity: Aja Ekapada (One-footed goat)

    • Symbol: Sword or two-faced man

26. Uttara Bhadrapada

    • Deity: Ahirbudhnya (Serpent of the deep)

    • Symbol: Twin fish or snake in the water

27. Revati

    • Deity: Pushan (Protector of travelers)

    • Symbol: Fish or drum

These associations are integral to Vedic astrology and are used to interpret the influence of the stars on human.

K. Weekdays & its significance 

According to Sanatan Dharma, each day of the week is associated with a specific deity, based on planetary influences and Vedic astrology. Here is a breakdown of the days and their corresponding gods:

Sunday (Ravivara) - Surya (Sun God)

• Deity: Surya (the Sun God)

• Symbolism: Energy, vitality, leadership, and health

• Worship: People observe fasts and offer water to the Sun in the morning

• Mantra: Om Suryaya Namah

Monday (Somavara) - Shiva & Chandra (Moon God)

• Deity: Lord Shiva and Chandra (Moon God)

• Symbolism: Peace, calmness, and emotional stability

• Worship: Devotees observe "Somvar Vrat" (Monday fast) for Lord Shiva

• Mantra: Om Namah Shivaya

Tuesday (Mangalavara) - Hanuman & Mars (Mangal)

• Deity: Lord Hanuman, also associated with Mangal (Mars)

• Symbolism: Strength, courage, and protection

• Worship: Many devotees fast on Tuesdays to seek Hanuman’s blessings

• Mantra: Om Hanumate Namah

Wednesday (Budhavara) - Lord Ganesha & Budha (Mercury)

• Deity: Lord Ganesha and Budha (Mercury)

• Symbolism: Wisdom, intelligence, and communication

• Worship: Worshippers offer prayers to Lord Ganesha for success and prosperity

• Mantra: Om Gan Ganapataye Namah

Thursday (Guruvara) - Lord Vishnu & Brihaspati (Jupiter)

• Deity: Lord Vishnu and Brihaspati (Jupiter, the Guru of Devas)

• Symbolism: Knowledge, spirituality, and prosperity

• Worship: Devotees fast and worship Vishnu or Guru Brihaspati for wisdom

• Mantra: Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya

Friday (Shukravara) - Goddess Lakshmi & Shukra (Venus)

• Deity: Goddess Lakshmi and Shukra (Venus)

• Symbolism: Wealth, beauty, and harmony

• Worship: People observe fasts for Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity

• Mantra: Om Shreem Mahalakshmyai Namah

Saturday (Shanivara) - Lord Shani, Hanuman & Kali

• Deity: Lord Shani (Saturn), Hanuman, and Goddess Kali

• Symbolism: Karma, discipline, and justice

• Worship: Devotees worship Lord Shani to reduce negative influences of Saturn

• Mantra: Om Sham Shanicharaya Namah

Each day holds special significance  and devotees often observe fasts and rituals to please the ruling deity of the day.

L. FLowers

 Flowers hold a deep spiritual and symbolic significance in Sanatan Dharama. They are considered pure, auspicious, and an essential offering in worship (puja) of deities. Each flower is associated with different gods and carries unique meanings in Sanatan Dharma rituals, mythology, and traditions.

1. Importance of Flowers in Sanatan Dharma

• Purity & Devotion: Flowers are symbols of purity and devotion, used in temples and home altars.

• Offering to Deities: Hindus believe that flowers please the gods and attract divine blessings.

• Symbol of Life & Impermanence: Flowers bloom and wither quickly, reminding humans of life's transient nature.

• Used in Rituals & Festivals: Flowers are part of various rituals, from birth ceremonies to weddings and funerals.

2. Flowers and Their Divine Associations

Lotus (Padma)

• Symbolizes: Purity, enlightenment, spiritual awakening.

• Associated with:

  • Goddess Lakshmi (goddess of wealth) sits on a lotus.

  • Lord Vishnu holds a lotus in one hand.

  • Lord Brahma was born from a lotus emerging from Vishnu’s navel.

  • Goddess Saraswati (goddess of wisdom) is also depicted with a white lotus.

Jasmine (Mallika)

• Symbolizes: Love, purity, divine fragrance.

• Associated with:

  • Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi (used in their worship).

  • Goddess Parvati (jasmine garlands are offered in devotion).

  • Used in making garlands for deities and brides during weddings.

Marigold (Genda)

• Symbolizes: Prosperity, positivity, protection.

• Associated with:

  • Offered to Lord Ganesha and Goddess Durga.

  • Used in festival decorations, especially during Diwali and Navaratri.

Red Hibiscus

• Symbolizes: Power, energy, devotion.

• Associated with:

  • Lord Ganesha and Goddess Kali (red hibiscus is their favorite).

  • Used in tantric rituals and powerful prayers.

Parijata (Night-flowering Jasmine)

• Symbolizes: Heavenly blessings and devotion.

• Mythology:

  • This divine tree is believed to have come from the ocean during the Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean).

  • Associated with Lord Krishna, who brought it to earth.

Tulsi (Holy Basil)

• Symbolizes: Spiritual protection, purity, devotion.

• Associated with:

  • Lord Vishnu and Krishna (Tulsi leaves are essential in their worship).

  • Considered a sacred plant in Hindu households.

Champa (Frangipani)

• Symbolizes: Joy, divine grace, beauty.

• Associated with:

  • Used in temples for Goddess Lakshmi and Lord Shiva.

3. Role of Flowers in Hindu Rituals

• Puja Offerings: Placed at deity’s feet to seek blessings.

• Festivals & Celebrations: Used in grand decorations during Diwali, Navaratri, and temple festivals.

• Weddings & Auspicious Occasions: Used in garlands for brides, grooms, and deities.

• Ayurvedic & Spiritual Healing: Some flowers are used in medicine and spiritual baths.

4. Rules for Offering Flowers

• Only fresh flowers should be used.

• Flowers should be washed before offering.

• Certain flowers (like white flowers) are preferred for some deities, while red is for power-related deities like Kali.

• Tulsi leaves should not be plucked on Sundays or Ekadashi.

Flowers in Sanatan Dharma are more than just decorative elements; they represent the connection between the human and divine, embodying devotion, purity, and blessings.