VOLUME I ISSUE 11 December 2008 ISSN 0974-5637

VOICE OF THE VEDIC NATION

VEDINFORMATICS EDITORIAL BOARD

H.H. Swami Ramakrishnanda Swamigal, Atharvaveda Sankracharya SriVidhya Peetam (Rishikesh) Founder of Vedic Scientific & Research Foundation www.vsrf.org www.atharvavedapeetam.org

H.H. 1008 MAHAMANDELESHWAR Swami Ramananda Bapu, Tapovan ashram, Mora Tekra, Surat, GUJARAT

Acharya Loknathanand Avadhut, Anandmarg Yogashram, Himmatnagar, GUJARAT.

Arun Kyumar Upadhyay, IPS, M.Sc.(Math),AIFC, B-9,CB-9,Cantonment Road, Cuttack-753001 Res.phone-0671-2304172/2304433, Mobile-09437034172 arun_ved@yahoo.co.in

C.L.Prabhakar VedaAdhyayana Kendra, Bangalore. President, World Association For Vedic Studies, (WAVES), USA. India Branch, Bangalore Chapter; Professor of Vedas, International Vedic Hindu University. Orlando (USA) clprabhakar@yahoo.com http://nvak.tripod.com

T.S.Ramakrishna, Earthsystem Sciences Awareness & Research Association (ESWARA) Hyderabad tskrishna90_hyd@dataone.in

Dr. Ravi Prakash Arya, Indian Foundation for Vedic Science, DELHI/HARYANA vedicscience@hotmail.com

Chhatrapati A. Singh, Yoga Chetana Samaj, Patna, BIHAR yoga_casingh@yahoo.com

Dr. Pragna J. Joshi Maharshi Academy of Vedic Sciences, Ahmedabad, GUJARAT

Dr. T.R. Santala Priyadarshini, Government Ayurveda Medical College, Mysore, KARNATAKA santala301@gmail.com

Dr. Shriji Kurup, Centre for Environment Education, Kraikal, TAMIL NADU shriji.kurup@gmail.com

R. Ravishangar, Vedic Scientific & Research Foundation vedaravishangar@gmail.com

Rajendra Singh Sharawat Rishi Kanva Vedic Microbiology Research Institute, Vadodara, GUJARAT rajsahrawat@gmail.com

Dr. Hiren Modi, Rishi Kanva Vedic Microbiology Research Institute, Vadodara, GUJARAT hiren_msu@yahoo.com

Dr. Bhavin H. Bhatt, Tuberculosis Research Centre / Shreeji MicroLife Laboratory, Bhavnagar, GUJARAT bhavin_msc@yahoo.co.in

Dr. Ravindra Kumar Das, M.B.B.S, M.D.(Radiology), Aurangabad, BIHAR

Randhir Zala, Maharshi VedInformatics and Research Centre, Bhavnagar, GUJARAT

Shyama Prasad Das, AGARTALA

Dr. Ramakrishna Sastri, Delhi University, DELHI

Girish Nambiar, Mumbai, MAHARASTRA

Sheetanshu Kumar Sahay Patna, BIHAR

OVERSEAS

George Joy, Birhimgam, UK

Chris Poynton, Chris Poynton Research Services, Victoria, Australia. chris.poynton@gmail.com www.beam.to/chrispoynton

Ashish Brahmabhatt, UK

Dhrupesh Patel, Hoffman States, USA

Monthly Published By:

Maharshi Vedinformatics & Research Centre, D-34, Flat # 107, Akshar Township, B/h Intercity, P.K.Road,

Surat, GUJARAT (BHAARAT)

In Association with:

THE WORLD COMMUNITY FOR INDIAN CULTURE & TRADITIONAL DISCIPLINES (ITALY), YOGA CHETANA SAMAJ (BIHAR)

& RISHI KANVA VEDIC MICROBIOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE (GUJARAT)

http://www.groups.google.co.in/group/vedinformatics Mailto: vedinformatics@gmail.com

NOTE: VEDINFORMATICS is autonomously published by Maharshi Vedinformatics & Research Centre and allied

organization. Vedinformatics is a registered electronic publication. Materials are collected from every known source. Information published herein can be used by like minded persons for their personal use or for further publicity.

YogAyur Summit 2008 INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON YOG AND AYURVEDA

Was Successfully Organized by

YOGA CHETANA SAMAJ, PATNA , BIHAR

INTERNATIONAL YOG CONFEDERATION, NEW DELHI &

THE WORLD COMMUNITY ON INDIAN CULTURE AND TRADITIONAL DISCIPLINE, MILAN (ITALY).

In Association with

Maharshi Vedinformatics and Research Centre, Surat (GUJARAT)

Rishi Kanva Vedic Microbiology Research Institute, Vadodara (GUJARAT)

AarshTech BioCare Pharma

ON 28 DECEMBER 2008

VENUE:

PATNA HIGH SCHOOL, GARDANIBAGH PATNA (PATLIPUTRA), BIHAR (BHAARAT / INDIA)

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YogAyur Summit 2008

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YogAyur Summit 2008

From Left to Right:

YogaGuru Chhatrapati Arunodaya Singh (Chief of Yoga Chetana Samaj)

Yogacharya Amadio Bianchi (Swami Suryananda Saraswati) President of: World Movement for Yoga; European Yoga Federation, International Yoga and Ayurveda School C.Y. Surya, Milan, Italy. Vice president of: International Yog Federation (New Delhi)

Shyamanath Aghori

Dr. Chakradhar Frend (Founder Director of Maharshi VedInformatics and Research Centre; Rishi Kanva Vedic Microbiology Research Institute)

Yogacharini Pandit Emy Blesio Gayatri Devi (President of: the International Yog Confederation, Delhi; of The World Community of Indian Culture & Traditional Disciplines; of the Official Italian Yoga Confederation.)

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YogAyur Summit 2008

Swami Suryananda Saraswati and Yogacharini Gayatri Devi Playing Flute

Left : Shyamanath Aghori ; Right: Swami Suryananda Saraswati

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YogAyur Summit 2008

YogaGuru Chhatrapati A. Singh Receiving award Dr. Chakradhar Frend receiving award

Jewelry Turned Spiritual Atracts Youth

Source: http://www1.timesofindia.indiatimes.com; Hindu Press International INDIA, December 18, 2008: Spiritual jewelry has become the latest craze in India, and youngsters are rediscovering their spiritual side by flaunting it. Says college student Ridhima Singh who always wears a chic Ganesha pendant around her neck, “Spiritual jewelry is being touted as trendy and thanks to designers, now there is no dearth of super chic designs when it comes to spiritual jewelry. Wearing spiritual jewelry makes me peaceful and I feel closer to God.” According to jewelry designer Ravi Ajmera of Ravi Jewels, “The spirituality wave has caught on strongly and spiritual jewelry is an extension of the same. A lot of young people are buying spiritual jewelry as they are entranced by their distinguished look and the mystic element associated with them.” Youngsters are taking their pick from Shiva, Ganesha, Om, Hanuman and Sarasvati pendants, bangles and ear-rings. Rudraksha beads, believed to be the tears of Lord Shiva and worn by yogis for enlightenment, are being used–sometimes encrusted with gold–to create some exclusive pieces of jewelry. Ajmera says that the most popular among youngsters are his necklaces that have huge rudraksha beads and pendants with carved figures of Gods and Goddesses.

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First Hindu Crematorium Planned in Bali

Source: http://balinewsonline.com/bali-news/2008/12/09/the-first-hindu-crematorium-in-bali/ BALI, INDONESIA, December 10, 2008: Because of cultural conflicts that resulted in the prohibition of conducting funeral and cremation ceremonies in the village cemetery, the residents of Pasek decided to build a crematorium. It will be available to anyone from any religion and any clan. When completed, the crematorium will be available to all Hindus, including those from outside the island. Chairman of Bali Chapter of All Indonesian Hindu Union, I. Gusti Ngurah Sudiana has expressed his support for the crematorium. “This is an answer to our recent cultural problem, which will be more appreciated in the future,” said Sudiana.

10,000 Youths Join VHP To Combat Terrorism

Surat, Dec 10 : More than 10,000 youths have enrolled themselves in VHP and Bajrang Dal, both saffron outfits, in Surat in the wake of the recent terror strikes on Mumbai. Several youngsters from the city, especially at Varachha and Katargam areas, have expressed their desire to join the party and combat terrorism. VHP chief (Varachha zone) Kamlesh Kayada told UNI here today that following the Mumbai attacks, the nation's young generation especially is very angry and upset with the present political system. ''They have understood that neither the Congress nor the BJP are capable of tackling the anti-national activities,'' he said, adding that the trend does not mean people's polarisation against any one community. ''VHP alone is receiving 100-150 membership forms daily and 10,000 people have already joined the outfit. We aim to register around 21,000 youths by the end of this month to make the outfit stronger,'' Mr Kayada informed.The members would be a part of VHP's youth wing and be assigned various tasks like finding anti-social elements and spying suspicious people, Mr Kayada added. ''The lapse in internal security and regular in-flow of migrants in the area are two major reasons of such anti-national activities, ''he stated, adding that there were many migrants working in industrial areas of Varachha and Katargam. Bajrang Dal head in the area, Mukesh Trada, said police has also failed to solve these problems and that his party has started solving them after people have expressed their faith on it. www.vhp.org

Anti-yoga Edict Is Not Binding, Say Malaysian Religious Leaders

Source: http://www.ptinews.com/pti%5Cptisite.nsf KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA, December 15, 2008: Malaysia’s National Fatwa Council has said the edicts issued by it were only “views” and are “not binding” on any state. Some Malaysian states like Sarawak had banned Yoga while several others such as Malacca and Johor are contemplating to make the practice out-of-bound for Muslims. Yoga is very popular in this multi-ethnic country where many Malay Muslims, ethnic Indian Hindus, Christians and Chinese attend Yoga classes.The Chairman of the Concil, Mr. Husin, said it was “a matter of wisdom” how issues should be individually managed

Courtesy: Hindu Press International 6

Hindus Honor Composer-Saint Sri Thyagaraja

Source: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/12/17/stories/2008121753620200.htm THANJAVUR, INDIA, December 17, 2008: The 162nd aradhana of Tamil saint and composer Sri Thyagaraja will be held from January 11 to 15 at the saint’s samadhi on the banks of the Cauvery at Thiruvaiyaru in Thanjavur district. Karan Singh, MP and president of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations and former Governor of Kashmir, will inaugurate the festival on January 11. Music concerts will continue after inauguration and on every day of the celebration. The actual aradhana will be held on January 15, Pushya Bagula Panchami Day, when the saint attained samadhi. On that day, hundreds of musicians from all over the country will render the panchanrathna kritis of the saint in chorus and pay homage to the saint. Pandakal Muhurtham (planting of a pole for erecting pandal) was done after pujas were performed to the statue of Sri Thyagaraja at the samadhi.

Morari Bapu’s World Religion Conference Scheduled For January

Source: deshgujarat.com AHMEDABAD, GUJARAT, INDIA, DECEMBER 20, 2008: For international peace and unity, Gujarati Ram kathakar Morari Bapu will organize a World Religion conference at Gujarat’s Mahuva from January 6 to 11, 2009. The six-day conference happens at Kailash Gurukul in Bhavnagar district, seeking ways to find harmony among world religions. According to the details announced in Mumbai press conference, Tibetan spiritual leader His Holiness Dalai lama and Morari Bapu will address the conference on inauguration day. During January 7 to 11, Samdhong Rinpoche (Dharamshala) will deliver his address on Buddhism, Diwan Saiyad Zainul Abedin Ali saheb(Ajmer Sharif) on Islam, Dr. Prabalkant Dutt on non-Catholic Christianity, Kanchi Shakaracharya Swami Jayendra Saraswati on Hinduism and Dastur Dr. Peshtan Hormazadiar Mirza (Mumbai/Udvada) on Zoroastrianism.

Helping the Needy, Cambodia Rediscovers Yoga

Source: www.phnompenhpost.com PHNOM PENH, CAMBODIA, December 17, 2008: Cambodia was home to one of the greatest Hindu empires, until the fall of the Khmer empire in 1431. Ancient carvings in local temples show yogis in deep meditation. The art is long forgotten, but today, yoga studios in the capital are increasingly reaching out to disadvantaged communities to share the health benefits of this healing practice. “Yoga Cambodia” started a training initiative in January 2007 to help remedy the lack of yoga studios here. Their objective is to train Cambodians in the meditation techniques and exercises of yoga, enabling them in turn to teach others, particularly through outreach activities to poor communities who might not otherwise have access to yoga and meditation-based support. Their students are feeling the benefits of this ancient practice which is so popular abroad.

Courtesy: Hindu Press International 7

Malaysia Could Train Hindu Temple Priests, Minister Says

Source: http://www.ndtv.com/convergence/ndtv/story.aspx?id=NEWEN20080075764 KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA, December 10, 2008: Malaysia’s Human Resource Minister S. Subramaniam, who is an ethnic Indian, said the government is prepared to arrange the training of ethnic Indian youths to become temple priests needed to conduct various ceremonies. Temple priests have traditionally come from India, but visa and job restrictions have resulted in shortages. Subramaniam said many temples were facing a shortage of priests to conduct daily prayers and were now seeking to recruit more priests from India. The community generally has trouble recruiting Malaysian youth as they are required to stay vegetarian and be ready to work for US$175 per month, which is considered a low salary.

Durga-Lakshmi-Saraswati Temple Planned for San Jose, California

Source: http://indiapost.com/article/communitypost/4749/1/print/ SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA, December 10, 2008: A group of long-time Bay Area residents have announced plans to establish a Sri Durga Lakshmi Saraswati Temple. Associated facilities will include a multi-purpose building with wedding and dining hall, kitchen, offices, library and classrooms. The temple will be built following the Agama and Shilpa Shastras. This will be a “Green Temple” incorporating environmentally friendly features such as solar roofs and rainwater harvesting. When completed, the group plans to transfer all assets to the Hindu Community and Cultural Center, which operates the Shiva-Vishnu Temple in Livermore, California. Land acquisition for the temple is in progress.

In Pasadena, California, An Exhibit To Discover Lord Ganesh

Source: www.pacificasiamuseum.org PASADENA, CALIFORNIA, USA, December 16, 2008: [Press Release] The Pacific Asia Museum’s announces its upcoming exhibition, Discovering Ganesh: Remover of Obstacles. This exhibition invites the community into the museum to experience the art and culture of South Asian Ganesh festivals through contemporary photographs, installations and multimedia components. Through the work of photographer Shana Dressler and the 11th - 19th century artists who painted and carved the ancient statues of Ganesh in our collection, Discovering Ganesh will examine the diverse South Asian religious world, but particularly as it is reflected in the worship of Lord Ganesh, the elephant-headed God revered for removing obstacles and bringing prosperity. The exhibition will be on view from March 18 to September 20, 2009.

Courtesy: Hindu Press International 8

Priest Training Course for Women Opens in Pune

Source: www.ndtv.com PUNE, INDIA, December 30, 2008: An institute in Pune is offering women a one-year course to train them to become purohitas, female priests. The response so far has been quite encouraging. “Seventy per cent of our batch comprises women, most of them housewives, who are doing this course to do a job of a purohita,” said Arya Joshi, Senior Instructor, Jnana Prabodhini, Pune. Swati Divekar, a qualified teacher of Japanese and French has enrolled because she wants a change in profession. “We do all the rituals with sincerity. We also explain to them what we are doing, and we are not in a hurry,” said Swati Divekar. About 19 pujas and samsakaaras are taught as part of the course. All of them are performed as per Vedic rituals.

Rameshwaram’s Sacred Wells: Research Request HPI KAUAI, HAWAII, December 28, 2008: Hinduism Today magazine is doing a report on the 22 sacred wells located within Rameshwaram Temple in Tamil Nadu. We have seen several lists of the significance of the wells, but are seeking the “definitive” listing of sins absolved and blessings bestowed by each of the wells. For those not familiar with the temple, pilgrims are taken from well to well and are blessed with a bucket of water over their head at each. Despite being located close together, the water from each well is distinctive in both taste and temperature. At half the wells, various sins are absolved; at the other half blessings bestowed. For those with special information on the temple’s wells, contact ar@hindu.org.

New Hindu Journal Launches in Canada

Source: adhopia@hotmail.com TORONTO, CANADA, December 23, 2008: A group of devotees are launching a new quarterly journal, Canadian Hindu Link, in January, 2009. According to founder Ajit Adhopia, “Our entire focus will be on educating our new generation about their cultural and spiritual heritage; it will also offer a forum to our youths to discuss issues that interest them.” Adhopia explains that although there are approximately two dozen temples in the Greater Toronto Area, only a few have a regular, structured program for children or youths. “I fear that our Dharma may not survive in Canada after 2-3 generations… Our young generation is growing with a very skewed image of their culture and religion as portrayed by the mainstream.” Because youth have a strong interest in social issues, he sees a youth forum as a very effective way to generate involvement. Contributing their energies to this task are Shri Kumar Agarwal and Shri Prabhat Kapur, both well- known Hindu community activists, and youth Punit Bakshi, who is handling the computer work. For further information or advertising, contact adhopia@hotmail.com

Courtesy: Hindu Press International 9

Net Closes In On Congress MP For Orissa Swami’s Murder

Source: www.indianexpress.com BHUBANESWAR, INDIA, December 27, 2008: The BJD-BJP Government in Orissa is closing in on Congress Rajya Sabha member and former civil servant Radhakanta Nayak for his “alleged role in the conspiracy to kill Lakshmanananda Saraswati.” Sources say that Nayak, the most high-profile Christian political leader in the State, may be arrested shortly. The Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has alleged that the plot to kill Lakshamananda Saraswati was “hatched in the presence of Nayak.” The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of Orissa police is said to be preparing a case against Nayak and his supporters. Though CID officials refused to comment whether they considered Nayak as one of the suspects, they said: “The mastermind has been identified and he is now out of Orissa.” Nayak, when contacted by The Indian Express, said the allegations that he conspired to kill the Swami were “absolutely absurd and completely false”. “I feel very surprised by the charges,” he said over the phone from New Delhi.

Ancient Hindu Kingdom of Hampi Comes to Life in Australia

Source: museumvictoria.com.au MELBORNE, AUSTRALIA, December 22, 2008: At the Immigration Museum in Melbourne, you can immerse yourself in the ancient world of Hampi, a World Heritage site in Southern India. Using state of the art digital technologies, this ground breaking experience presents 3D stereographic panoramas of an extraordinary site with all its mythological, archaeological, artistic and historic significance. The museum also has a published school holiday program with activities for children. They can make rangolis, rakhi bracelets, decorate shadow puppets of Ganesha and Hanuman and participate in a day long festival highlighting ancient India. For dates and times go to source above.

Twelve Submerged Bilaspur Temples Will Be Relocated

Source: http://www.hinduonnet.com/thehindu/holnus/004200812041712.htm SHIMLA, HIMACHAL PRADESH, INDIA, December 7, 2008: The government has agreed to relocate 12 of the 28 submerged temples in Gobind Sagar lake at Bhakra Dam reservoir in Bilaspur, said the Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal in Shimla on Thursday. The Archaeological Survey of India has declared the temples, which have been under water for over four decades, as monuments of “national importance.” Locals allowed the submersion of their temples to pave the way for the completion of India’s first hydro electric power plant in 1963. Minister Dhumal said in a statement that he has highlighting the sentiments of the residents of Bilaspur town who had been worshipping at the temples for generations. Dhumal said the the government respected the sentiments of displaced people during the Nagarjuna sagar and Narmada valley projects and the same will be done in this case.

Courtesy: Hindu Press International 10

Game Developers Use Themes From Hindu Stories

Source: www.hinduonnet.com NEW DELHI, INDIA, December 22, 2008: Mobile entertainment company Nazara Technologies has launched a game that can be played on the new generation iPhone. Based on the Mahabharata, the 2D game portrays original incidents from the epic and gives an opportunity to gamers to know more about Hindu heritage. “Epic content is very acceptable in the market. With it, we intend to reach out to larger audience and grab a larger chunk of the growing mobile gaming industry,” says Nazara Technologies CEO Nitish Mittersain. The company plans to launch a series of games based on the Mahabharata, Ramayana, Panchatantra and Akbar Birbal to name a few. Mobile content and gaming companies are now tapping the target audience who show interest in traditional stories and epics. The Indian mobile gaming market is expected to reach US$336 million by 2009.

Satguru Bodhinatha Veylanswami Visits Chinmaya Mission

Source: www.indiajournal.com ANAHEIM, CA, USA, December 19, 2008: At an informal gathering recently at the Chinmaya Mission center,Satguru Bodhinatha Veylanswami, head of the Kauai Hindu Monastery, met with members of the mission and exchanged some thoughts with Swami Ishwarananda, the head acharya of CMLA. Swami Bodhinatha who oversees among other things the well acclaimed magazine, “Hinduism Today” spoke to the gathered group that welcomed him with lamps, the chanting of the Guru Stotram, poornakhumbam and garlands, and addressed issues that become an impediment in how Hinduism is perceived by the larger audience. He said that there are several schools of thought within the faith and it was important for each religious leader or swami to clearly identify where their allegiance lay so it would not confuse the lay listener. He also spoke of the dangers of relying on websites that publish material that focus on the story telling aspects to the detriment of any philosophical understanding. The visiting monk also spoke of the challenges of raising Hindu children in America and praised Chinmaya Mission for having well informed teachers who can speak on why for instance, the faith has multiple Gods. In continuing his guru’s task of establishing Hinduism in the west, Swami Bodhinatha is also overseeing the construction of the Iraivan temple in Kauai, the first hand carved, all granite temple in this continent. Swami Bodhinatha belongs to the ancient Nandinatha Sampradaya and was initiated into its teachings and practices by his guru, Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami, the founder of the Monastery in Kauai.

Courtesy: Hindu Press International 11

Hinduism Today’s New Issue Is Available Online

Source: http://www.hinduismtoday.com/digital KAUAI, HAWAII, USA, December 9, 2008: The January-February-March issue of “Hinduism Today,” the magazine that has been called “the voice of Hinduism,” has been released in PDF format. This issue announces our Hindu of the Year. He is the remarkable Swami Avdheshananda Giri, a spiritual giant who heads an order of 500,000 Hindu monks and guides the lives of millions and numberless humanitarian projects. His engaging life story and mission are told in detail. An intimate interview reveals the energetic mind and heart of a modern saint. In our Publisher’s Desk, Satguru Bodhinatha Veylanswami celebrates the magazine’s 30th year with a retrospective on past achievements and a glimpse into our digital future. The 16-page illustrated Educational Insight, called “Parenting with Love,” is a virtual manual on child-rearing, Hindu style. It explores Positive Discipline, a proven system of raising children without physical punishment or verbal abuse, offering forms of discipline (you definitely need discipline) that work for parents and kids alike. There is a great summary of 14 key strategies that every parent needs to know. India’s Supreme Court Asked To Decide If Hereditary Temple Service Is Protected By Religious Laws Source: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/12/04/stories/2008120454480500.htm NEW DELHI, INDIA, December 7, 2008: The Telangana Archaka Samakhya has urged the Supreme Court to declare “archakatvam,” service in temple, an integral part of religious activities under Articles 25 and 26 of the Constitution. According to the petitioner M.V. Soundara Rajan, president of the Samakhya, a local court “dealt a death blow to customs, service and sampradayams of temples” when ruled that hereditary archakatvam is not an essential and integral part of religion.The petition states the diminishing number of temples is a threat to one’s freedom to practice religion. “The continuance of hereditary archaka system has been left to the discretion of the local government. It dismisses any right to emoluments such families used to receive.”

Courtesy: Hindu Press International

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Hindu Organizations Call for New Direction on Terrorism

Source: http://www.prweb.com/printer/1717534.htm UNITED STATES, December 8, 2008: Members of the Hindu community of North America came together to perform a Shanti Homam (ceremony of peace) in Dallas, Texas to pray for peace and solace for the affected families of the Mumbai terrorist attacks, and for the world. The Shanti Homa attracted over 30 Hindu organizations and members of the Jewish and Islamic faiths. Similar ceremonies were also offered in many cities in United States, Canada, Australia and around the world. “We come together to look into the eyes of terror and say we stand together as one people of the world in support of humanity - not in despair or hopelessness, but rather in love, strength, resolve, and peace for the present and the future” says Ranna Jani, President of the Dallas-Fort Worth Hindu Temple, Irving, Texas. The following organizations signed the declaration: 1. Sanatana Dharma Foundation, Dallas, Texas. 2. DFW Hindu Temple, Irving, Texas 3. Vaishno Devi Temple, Ontario, Canada 4. North Texas Hindu Mandir, Dallas, Texas 5. Foundation Against Continuing Terrorism, (FACT), Houston, Texas 6. Kanchi Kamakoti Seva Foundation, New Jersey. 7. International Sanatana Dharma Society, Omaha, Nebraska 8. Samskrita Bharati, San Jose, California 9. United States Hindu Alliance, Atlanta, Georgia 10. Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Vadtal Dham, Scarborough, Ontario 11. Kanchi Kamakoti Seva Kendra, Toronto, Canada 12. Global Hindu Heritage Foundation, Madison, Mississippi 13. Hindu Mahasabha of America, Houston, Texas 14. The Arise Arjuna Foundation, New Jersey 15. Indic Studies Foundation, California 16. Indian Intellectuals Forum, New York City, New York 17. Third Eye Meditation Inc., Dallas, Texas 18. Denton County India Cultural Association, Denton, Texas 19. SEWA International, USA - Dallas Chapter 20. National Federation of Indian American Association (NFIA), California 21. International Kashmir Federation (IKF), San Francisco, California 22. Global organization of the people of Indian Origin, San Francisco, California 23. Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh, Dallas Chapter 24. Foundation for Hindu Religious Studies, Cleveland, Ohio 24. Foundation for Hindu Religious Studies, Cleveland, Ohio 25. Forum for Religious Freedom, New York City, New York 26. Yoga Bharati, San Jose, California 27. Sri Kripalu Kunj Mission, Houston, Texas 28. Kashmiri Association of North Texas, Dallas, USA 29. Jagadguru Kripalu Yog, USA 30. Frisco Vishnu Sahasranama Group, Frisco, Texas 31. Sanatana Dharma School, Irving, Texas 32. DFW Hindu TRAC Group, Dallas, Texas 33. Vedanta Today, Boston, Massachusetts 34. American Telugu Association (ATA), Irving, Texas 35. Indo-Caribbean Cultural Council, Trinidad and Tobago, Caribbean 36. Subhodhayam Group, College Station, Texas 37. Canadian Hindu Advocay, Toronto, Canada 38. DFW Gayatri Parivar, Arlingon, Texas 39. Vishwa Hindu Parishad, Sydney, Australia

Courtesy: Hindu Press International

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Health Professionals in UK Will Receive Guide for Hindu Patients

Source: http://www.theasiannews.co.uk/news/ LONDON, ENGLAND, December 10, 2008: Health Secretary Alan Johnson and the Hindu Forum of Britain will launch the first ever guide to help health professionals provide care to Hindu patients at the House of Commons today. Endorsed by national Hindu organizations, “Caring for Hindu Patients” aims to enhance health professional’s awareness of issues important to the care of Hindus and to provide an insight into how services may be provided sensitively with respect for Hindu values, practices and world views. With a brief and cohesive overview of Hinduism, and a short examination of the population’s demographic diversity, the book explores issues including language, dress, diet and festivals with emphasis on their practical relevance to healthcare professionals. “This book will help us diagnose and care for Hindu patients, but goes beyond this on a journey that makes us far better health carers. It teaches us to speak the ‘language’ of all our patients,” said Sam Everington OBE, former deputy chair of the British Medical Association.

First Hindu Crematorium Planned in Bali

Source: http://balinewsonline.com/bali-news/2008/12/09/the-first-hindu-crematorium-in-bali/ BALI, INDONESIA, December 10, 2008: Because of cultural conflicts that resulted in the prohibition of conducting funeral and cremation ceremonies in the village cemetery, the residents of Pasek decided to build a crematorium. It will be available to anyone from any religion and any clan. When completed, the crematorium will be available to all Hindus, including those from outside the island. Chairman of Bali Chapter of All Indonesian Hindu Union, I. Gusti Ngurah Sudiana has expressed his support for the crematorium. “This is an answer to our recent cultural problem, which will be more appreciated in the future,” said Sudiana.

Exhibition: Reflections of Indian Consciousness

Source: http://pib.nic.in/release/rel_print_page1.asp?relid=45342 INDIA, December 7, 2008: An exhibition entitled “Reflections of Indian Consciousness,” organized by the Archaeological Survey of India and Union Ministry of Culture, opened December 8 at the National Museum. It investigates Hindu concepts in art and culture through the ages. Curators say that the age-old value system of Indian consciousness revolves around two primary concepts: 1) vasudhaiva kutumbakam (this world is one family) and 2) ekama sat viprah bahudha vadanti (the universal reality is the same, but different people interpret it by different names). The archeological artifacts in the exhibit were chosen to display these concepts and of Hinduism’s values of selfless service, meditation and tolerance.

Courtesy: Hindu Press International 14

Ardra Darshana 2009, Celebrating Lord Shiva

Source: http://www.hindu-blog.com/2008/12/arudhra-darshan-2009-lord-shiva-ardra.html INDIA, December 21, 2008: Ardra Darshana, also known as Ardra festival, will occur on January 10 in 2009. Observed on the full moon day in the Tamil month of Margazhi (Margali Masam), this auspicious day is honored by Tamils worldwide in celebration of the cosmic dance of Lord Shiva as Nataraja. This auspicious star alignment happens when the full moon is in the constellation of Ardra. Temples al over India are preparing for this festival. It is especially celebrated in the Chidambaram Koyil, where it is the greatest festival of the year.

Quality Control for Indian Ayurvedic Medicines

Source: http://pib.nic.in/release/release.asp?relid=45782 INDIA, December 17, 2008: In order to ensure the safety and quality of Ayurvedic, Siddha and Unani medicines (ASU), the Indian government now requires mandatory testing for heavy metals has been introduced for herbal ASU medicines which are being exported. This has been done to meet the regulatory requirements of importing countries. In addition, all manufacturers of ASU drugs are now required to display (either on the label of the container or in an inserted leaflet) a list of all the ingredients along with quantities used in the manufacture of the preparation.

Indonesia “Unlikely” To Repeat Malaysia’s Yoga Ban

Source: http://www.thejakartaglobe.com/home/article/3729.html INDONESIA, Debember 18, 2008: The Indonesian Council of Ulema, or MUI, the highest Islamic authority in Indonesia, is unlikely to issue an edict banning the practice of yoga among Muslims here, according to council chairman Amidhan. “I think Indonesians practice yoga purely as a form of exercise,” he said. Amidhan said the council may come to a final conclusion on the issue at a national meeting in January, and would ban yoga for Indonesian Muslims only if it included rituals or acts that went against Islamic teachings.

Grand Closing for the Padmavati Festival at Tirupati Source: http://www.expressbuzz.com/edition/story.aspx TIRUPATI, ANDHRA PRADESH, INDIA, December 3, 2008: Thousands of devotees took part in Panchami Theertham at Thiruchanoor Tuesday to mark the end of the nine-day Kartika Brahmotsavams of Padmavati temple. As part of the three-hour colourful ritual, priests performed Thirumanjanam (celestial bath) to the idols of Goddess Padmavati and Chakrathalwar, which were brought from the temple and placed in a decorated mantapam on the banks of the temple tank. After the ritual, the priests dipped the idol of Chakrathalwar in the temple tank marking the conclusion of the annual temple fete. A large number of devotees took a holy dip in the tank at the same time. Earlier, in accordance with the age old tradition, the priests brought new silk clothes, turmeric and vermilion powder from Tirumala temple and presented them to the Goddess as a gift from Lord Venkateswara.

Courtesy: Hindu Press International 15

California Hindu Parents Organization Continues to Move Forward with Federal Lawsuit Against Textbooks Source: http://www.capeem.org CALIFORNIA, December 14, 2008: Arvind Kumar, Director, California Parents for the Equalization of Educational Materials (CAPEEM), submits the following update on their lawsuit regarding deficiencies in the state’s textbooks which cover Hinduism. He reports: “On December 12, the Expert Discovery phase came to an end in our lawsuit against the officials of the California Department of Education (CDE) and members of the State Board of Education (SBE). During this phase that began in September this year, both CAPEEM and the Defendants presented expert statements. Prof. Joe Barnhart, an authority on Christianity, and Prof. Nathan Katz, an expert in religious studies, provided statements on behalf of CAPEEM. The Defendants provided statements from Luis Gonzalez-Reimann and Dr. Herbert Weissman who is a psychologist. Prof. Shiva Bajpai whose Historical Atlas of South Asia is the standard reference book on the history of the Indian subcontinent and Dr. Marlene Winell who is the author of Leaving the Fold submitted rebuttals to Gonzalez-Reimann and Dr. Weissman respectively.“While Prof. Barnhart’s statement questioned the historicity of several biblical claims made in the textbook, Prof. Katz’s report focused on castes among people in India who were not Hindus. Although Gonzalez-Reimann was the Defendants’ expert, his report agreed with CAPEEM’s claims on some points and he pointed out that the usage of the word ‘Christ’ in history books would amount to religious indoctrination. It must be noted that Romila Thapar, one of the opponents of our efforts to remove biblical indoctrination from textbooks, uses the word ‘Christ’ instead of the name Jesus in her book, and Gonzalez-Riemann’s report can be seen as an attack on Romila Thapar’s belief in the historicity of Jesus. Gonzalez-Reimann has also been used as an expert on DNA analysis, archaeology, Christian indoctrination and other topics despite having no qualification in these fields. He has challenged the findings of scientists published in leading journals in the field of genetics. Gonzalez-Reimann’s description of Hinduism in his report also shows that his understanding of the topic is superficial.During the Expert Discovery phase, Defendants filed two motions against us and took the deposition of Prof. Bajpai causing tremendous strain to our resources. At this point, we have completed most of the work related to technical issues, and the next few weeks should see summary judgment motions being filed by both sides. After the ruling on these motions, the case will go to trial.”

Hindus Honor Composer-Saint Sri Thyagaraja

Source: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/12/17/stories/2008121753620200.htm THANJAVUR, INDIA, December 17, 2008: The 162nd aradhana of Tamil saint and composer Sri Thyagaraja will be held from January 11 to 15 at the saint’s samadhi on the banks of the Cauvery at Thiruvaiyaru in Thanjavur district Karan Singh, MP and president of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations and former Governor of Kashmir, will inaugurate the festival on January 11. Music concerts will continue after inauguration and on every day of the celebration. The actual aradhana will be held on January 15, Pushya Bagula Panchami Day, when the saint attained samadhi. On that day, hundreds of musicians from all over the country will render the panchanrathna kritis of the saint in chorus and pay homage to the saint.Pandakal Muhurtham (planting of a pole for erecting pandal) was done after pujas were performed to the statue of Sri Thyagaraja at the samadhi.

Courtesy: Hindu Press International 16

Sankaracharya of Puri, Threatened, Is Under High Security

Source: http://www.telegraphindia.com/1081218/jsp/nation/story_10268508.jsp BHUBANESWAR, INDIA, December 17, 2008: The sankaracharya of Puri, Swami Nischalananda Saraswati, was given top-category security today after he received a threat letter, apparently from Maoists. The 80-year-old monk, however, said that he did not feel insecure. “I don’t feel threatened. I am not afraid of death,” he said here this afternoon. “During my 17-year stint at Gobardhan Peetha, I received several letters, which I never took seriously,” he said. But neither the Center nor the state government wants to take a chance, especially after the murder of Swami Laxmananda Saraswati in Kandhamal on August 23. Prodded by the Union government, he was provided with top-category security, which till date was enjoyed by the chief minister only. Yesterday, the Gobardhan Peetha received a hand-written letter along with a 12-page leaflet with a postal mark of Phulbani, and suggesting that it was sent by the Naxalites. “Those who create riot in the name of religion will face the same punishment as Swami Laxmananda Saraswati,” reads the threat letter. Swami Nischalananda Saraswati said he had doubts about the real authors of the letter.

A New Building For the Siva Supramaniar Kovil in Mauritius

Source: http://lexpress-newspaper.com/Details.aspx?id=1239&boxid=1573646 GOODLANDS, MAURITIUS, December 16, 2008: Mauritius now has a new Hindu Temple by the Goodlands area, the Siva Supramaniar Kovil, which received its holy consecration on November 23. The temple’s original building dated from the 1940s.The Siva Supramaniar Kovil was first housed in a small building, that over the years deteriorated beyond repair. Two years ago, the old kovil was demolished. The laying of the first stone of the new structure was held on 24 November 2006. The Kovil management has called in Indian workers to create South Indian style sculptures. The scriptures’ criteria for the construction of a kovil have been respected to the letter. After exactly two years of the Hindu calendar, the new temple is now open. The new Kovil is an architectural jewel, say local residents with pride. This Kovil is one of the few in Mauritius that shows the 108 tandava postures of the dance of Siva. Kanen Cunnoosamy, president of the Siva Supramaniar Kovil Society, said that the construction of the building was made possible through the collaboration of all members and well wishes, even if they were not members of the society. “All have contributed generously to the realization of this masterpiece,” said the president. “The Kovil is the symbol of national unity.”

No Religious Institution Should Own Media Channels, Say Indian Regulators

Source: http://www.medianewsline.com/news/118/ARTICLE/3416/2008-11-13.html NEW DELHI, INDIA, December 17, 2008: The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has submitted its recommendations to the Government, upholding the current prohibition of religious institutions owning broadcasting and distribution services. In the report, TRAI said that the prohibition does not mean that religious contents in regular broadcasting channels is to be forbidden, but recommends governmental supervision over them. Existing concessions of channels to religious institutions, which previously benefitted from exceptions to the law, should be banned in a timeframe of four years, TRAI recommends.

Courtesy: Hindu Press International 17