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<div class="KonaFilter image-container display-table float_right"><div><div class="image"></div></div></div>Fortune Magazine <a href="http://fortune.com/2016/01/12/statement-alan-murray-fortune/">has apologised after its new&#xa0;cover</a>&#xa0;depicted Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos as Lord Vishnu, a Hindu deity.&#xa0;The cover story, titled "<a href="http://fortune.com/amazon-india-jeff-bezos/">Amazon Takes India</a>," reported on&#xa0;how Bezos and a specialised team in India were looking to tackle the next "trillion-dollar market." The art was created by&#xa0;Nigel Buchanan, an Australian illustrator who also works for The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and Time.&#xa0;"The cover of Fortune's January 2016 international edition featured an illustration of Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos as a Hindu deity," <a href="http://fortune.com/2016/01/12/statement-alan-murray-fortune/">said editor Alan Murray</a>. "Neither the artist nor the editors of Fortune had any intention of parodying a particular deity or of offending members of the Hindu faith. It is clear that we erred and for that, we apologize."&#xa0;The President of the Universal Society of Hinduism, Rajan Zed, was one of the loudest voices to criticise Fortune for the cover. In a statement, Fortune thanked him and agreed that the cover was wrong.&#xa0;Zed asked&#xa0;Fortune, and other media companies, to immerse themselves in Hinduism and argued that no religion should be ridiculed, no matter how small.&#xa0;"Lord Vishnu was a highly revered major deity in Hinduism meant to be worshipped in temples or home shrines and not to be used indecorously or thrown around loosely in re-imagined versions for dramatic effect," he said.&#xa0;Anil Dash, an entrepreneur and prominent member of the technology community, also tweeted criticism of the cover.&#xa0;<div></div><div></div><div></div>Disclosure: Jeff Bezos is an investor in Business Insider through hispersonal investment company Bezos Expeditions. <div class="margin-top"> <h3>NOW WATCH: <a href="http://www.businessinsider.com/how-youre-compromising-identity-facebook-2015-11">This is how you're compromising your identity on Facebook</a></h3> <div> <div> <div class="ooyala-video-player" data-video-autoplay="false" data-video-id="gxa2U0eTpa2t5hAm0jGd83lTgXNjw1EY" data-player-variable="ooyalapopvideo" id="ooyalaplayer_popvideo" style="width:1280px;height:720px"></div> </div> </div> </div>

Fortune Magazine has apologised for a cover that depicted Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos as a Hindu deity

Sri Krishna, the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu descended on this earth on the Ashtami (eighth day) of Krishna Paksha (dark phase of the lunar month) in the month of Shravan (July – August). This year, Krishnashtami falls on Tuesday, August 30, 2021. Some people celebrate it on the next day also. Krishnashtami is also known and celebrated as Krishna Jayanti and Gokulashtami. A detailed expression calls this day Sri Krishna Janmashtami. Krishnashtami is very keenly observed in Hindu households. Krishnavatar or the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu is a very popular deity who is worshipped with great love, adoration, and respect. Krishnashtami is a happy and holy event that Hindu households celebrate with ardent devotion. In each household, people celebrate Krishnashtami in different ways -- could be done in a simple fashion and in an elaborate way. Krishnashtami is celebrated in temples too. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Krishna Janmashtami 2021 puja timing" comment="subhead" text="Krishna Janmashtami 2021 puja timing">Krishna Janmashtami 2021 puja timing</cmsannotation> In 2020, Krishnashtami falls on Tuesday, August 30, 2021. The Ashtami tithi begins at 11:25 pm on August 29, Sunday, and ends at 1:59 am on, August 31. Puja can be performed during this period. The Nishita (midnight) puja can be performed on August 30, from 11:59 pm to 12:44 am (31 August). People will organize Dahi Handi on Wednesday, August 30, 2021. Krishna Janmashtami 2021 puja procedure Before the day of Krishna Janmashtami, the household is cleaned and decorated. On the day of Krishnashtami, the devotees wake up early in the morning and take a holy bath. Then the puja altar is set up. Preferably, the puja altar can be set up in the puja room itself. If you are planning for an elaborate puja, you can organize the puja altar in the main hall also. Sri Krishna’s idol is the central attraction of the Krishnashtami puja. Some people use the regular idol or picture they have in their puja room. Some people buy a new image of Krishna every year for the puja. Depending on which material the Krishna idol is made of, you can plan for a holy bath for the idol; or can simply decorate the idol with flowers, clothes, and ornaments. In many Hindu households, people draw the images of little footsteps leading from the main door to the puja room. This practice symbolically represents Sri Krishna’s little feet bringing him into the household to bless the puja and the residents of the house. Krishna’s visit to every home during the puja is said to fill the home with prosperity and happiness. Light the lamp and offer incense to the Lord. Offer Chandan and kumkum. Offer special homemade prasad. Curd/yoghurt, ghee, butter, and other milk products and milk-based sweets are especially suitable to offer to Lord Krishna. Do not forget berries and other fruits. Sing the songs of Krishna and chant some shlokas and mantras related to Krishna. Wave camphor and conclude the puja. Share the prasad with the gathering and family as a mark of Krishna’s blessings.

Krishna Janmashtami 2021 puja time, date procedure at home

<keyword id="31981" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Govardhan-Puja" source="Orion">Govardhan Puja</keyword> has its origins during the times of Sri Krishna, the eighth incarnation of <keyword id="177496" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="Lord-Vishnu" source="Orion">Lord Vishnu</keyword>. Performing Govardhan puja is a part of family traditions in several parts of India. This puja is believed to bless the households with prosperity and abundance. Govardhan puja falls on the Pratipada day in the month of Kartik. Govardhan puja also marks the fourth day of <keyword id="3405" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Diwali-celebrations" source="Orion">Diwali celebrations</keyword>. Most times, this puja coincides with the Gujarati New Year. Here we learn how to do <keyword id="5905230" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Govardhan-Puja-at-Home" source="Orion">Govardhan Puja at home</keyword>. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="The origin of Govardhan Puja" comment="subhead" text="The origin of Govardhan Puja">The origin of Govardhan Puja</cmsannotation> As a child, Sri Krishna grew up in the household of the village chieftain Nanda and his wife Yashoda in Gokul, the famed Vraj Bumi. Rearing cows and making dairy products was the main occupation of the people in the village. Govardhan was a small hill located in the village. This tiny hill supported the village in several ways by supplying firewood, cow feeds and many others that the households required. In fact, the term Govardhan translates as (Go – Cow and Vardhan – Nourishment) nourishment to the cows. Sri Krishna initiated Govardhan Puja by enjoining the villagers to pay their respect and gratitude to the Govardhan hill once in a year. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Step By Step Procedure of Govardhan Puja" comment="subhead" text="Step By Step Procedure of Govardhan Puja">Step By Step Procedure of Govardhan Puja</cmsannotation> Install a picture of Govardhan hill on a pedestal. Alternatively, some households set up a hill like structure with clay or cow dung and decorate it in several ways to their heart’s content. Place an idol or picture of Lord Krishna next to the hill, decorate it too and start the puja. Light a lamp and incense sticks. Offer roli and rice to Krishna and Govardhan Hill. Offer sugarcane, curd, milk, batasha, laddoo and peda. Wave camphor in front of the puja altar and then say your prayers. After the puja, leave some batasha on the plate with some coins and give it to the needy. Ask some elderly person to read the story of Lakshmi. The attendees of the puja must listen to the story with devotion in rapt attention. At the end of the story session, the household presents the reader of the story with a silver coin, sweets and gifts. The group can circumambulate the hill, prostrate in front of the hill, receive sweets and Prasad and conclude the puja. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="The unique specialty of Govardhan Puja" comment="subhead" text="The unique specialty of Govardhan Puja">The unique specialty of Govardhan Puja</cmsannotation> Mythology says it was on the day of Govardhan Puja that Lord Krishna lifted the Govardhan hill with his little finger in order to provide a shelter for the villagers and cows during the torrential downpour that resulted from Indra’s (the king of gods) anger. The hill’s canopy saved the people from the flooding rains. Annakoot Utsav On the day of Govardhan Puja, Annakoot is the most popular event organized by people. As part of this ritual, people heap up a huge pile of food known as ‘Chappan Bhog’ and offer it to Lord Krishna. During the puja, the deities are given a holy bath and decorated gorgeously. At the end, the foods offered to Sri Krishna is distributed among the devotees who share them as Prasad during the feast that follows.

How to do Govardhan Puja at home?

Take on a spiritual journey across the diverse landscapes of India and explore some of the most revered temples that stand as testaments to the country's rich cultural heritage and deep-rooted spirituality. From the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the serene shores of the southern coast, India is adorned with temples that attract devotees and tourists alike. Here's a comprehensive list of some of the top temples you must visit in India. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Best Temples to Visit in India" comment="subhead" text="Best Temples to Visit in India"><keyword id="19017694" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Best-Temples-to-Visit-in-India" source="Orion">Best Temples to Visit in India</keyword></cmsannotation> <ul><li><keyword id="52191" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Vaishno-Devi" source="Orion">Vaishno Devi</keyword> Temple</li><li>Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib)</li><li>Meenakshi Temple</li><li><keyword id="11923178" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Jagannath-Temple" source="Orion">Jagannath Temple</keyword> </li><li>Kashi Vishwanath Temple</li><li>Tirupati Balaji Temple</li><li>Ram Mandir</li><li>Badrinath Temple</li></ul><cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Vaishno Devi Temple - Jammu and Kashmir" comment="subhead" text="Vaishno Devi Temple - Jammu and Kashmir">Vaishno Devi Temple - Jammu and Kashmir</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="1" msid="109857529" hostid="261" sizebytes="1397766" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Ascending the Trikuta Mountains, pilgrims seek divine blessings at Vaishno Devi&amp;#39;s abode&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Located in the Trikuta Mountains, Vaishno Devi Temple is dedicated to Goddess Vaishno Devi. Pilgrims undertake a challenging trek to reach the temple, seeking blessings from the divine Mother Goddess. How to Reach: The nearest airport is Jammu Airport, and the nearest railway station is Katra Railway Station. From there, pilgrims can trek or take ponies/helicopter rides to the temple. Deity: Goddess Vaishno Devi <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib) - Amritsar, Punjab" comment="subhead" text="Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib) - Amritsar, Punjab">Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib) - Amritsar, Punjab</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="2" msid="109857546" hostid="261" sizebytes="1266431" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Golden serenity reflects in the sacred waters surrounding Harmandir Sahib&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>A symbol of Sikhism's spiritual and historical significance, the Golden Temple is a breathtaking architectural marvel. Surrounded by the sacred Amrit Sarovar, the temple complex exudes tranquillity and welcomes people from all walks of life. How to Reach: Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport in Amritsar is the nearest airport, while Amritsar Junction is the nearest railway station. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Meenakshi Temple - Madurai, Tamil Nadu" comment="subhead" text="Meenakshi Temple - Madurai, Tamil Nadu">Meenakshi Temple - Madurai, Tamil Nadu</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="3" msid="109857567" hostid="261" sizebytes="2281791" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Intricate carvings tell stories of devotion within the halls of Meenakshi Temple&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Meenakshi Temple is an architectural masterpiece dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi, a form of Goddess Parvati, and her consort Lord Sundareswarar (Shiva). Intricate carvings, towering gopurams (gateway towers), and vibrant sculptures adorn this temple, drawing devotees and art enthusiasts alike. How to Reach: Madurai Airport is the nearest airport, and Madurai Junction is the nearest railway station. Deity: Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareswarar (Shiva) <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Jagannath Temple - Puri, Odisha" comment="subhead" text="Jagannath Temple - Puri, Odisha">Jagannath Temple - Puri, Odisha</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="4" msid="109857580" hostid="261" sizebytes="1722299" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Rath Yatra&amp;#39;s grandeur illuminates the skies above Jagannath Temple&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Situated in Puri, Odisha, Jagannath Temple is renowned worldwide for various reasons. Each year, the Ratha Yatra festival celebrates Lord Jagannath and his siblings, drawing people from across the globe to witness this grand event. Dedicated to Lord Krishna, the temple features a majestic kitchen where meals for the deity are prepared daily. It's a fascinating sight to behold! The temple's significance lies not only in its religious importance but also in its cultural and historical value. Visiting this iconic temple offers a glimpse into India's rich traditions and devotion to its deities. How to Reach: Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar is the nearest airport, while Puri Railway Station serves as the nearest railhead. Deity: Lord Jagannath (Krishna), Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Kashi Vishwanath Temple - Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh" comment="subhead" text="Kashi Vishwanath Temple - Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh">Kashi Vishwanath Temple - Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="5" msid="109857592" hostid="261" sizebytes="1050391" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Shimmering gold adorns Kashi Vishwanath, a beacon of spirituality on the Ganga&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Kashi Vishwanath Temple stands on the banks of the Ganga River in Varanasi, known as the cultural capital of India. It's a sacred site dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas. The temple's tower shines with 800 kg of gold, showcasing stunning architecture. The temple attracts devotees and tourists alike, offering a glimpse into India's rich spiritual heritage and architectural splendour. How to Reach: Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Varanasi is the nearest airport, and Varanasi Junction is the nearest railway station. Deity: Lord Shiva (Kashi Vishwanath) <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Tirupati Balaji Temple - Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh" comment="subhead" text="Tirupati Balaji Temple - Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh">Tirupati Balaji Temple - Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="6" msid="109857620" hostid="261" sizebytes="1903496" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Devotees climb to divine heights seeking blessings at Tirupati Balaji&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Tirupati Balaji Temple, also known as Sri Venkateswara Swamy Temple, is one of the wealthiest and most visited temples globally. Dedicated to Lord Venkateswara, the temple atop the Tirumala Hills welcomes millions of devotees every year who seek the blessings of the divine Lord. How to Reach: Tirupati Airport is the nearest airport, and Tirupati Railway Station serves as the nearest railhead. Deity: Lord Venkateswara (Vishnu) <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Ram Mandir - Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh" comment="subhead" text="Ram Mandir - Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh">Ram Mandir - Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="7" msid="109857670" hostid="261" sizebytes="1359518" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Ram Mandir stands as a symbol of faith and unity in Ayodhya&amp;#39;s sacred soil&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>The newly inaugurated Ram Mandir in Ayodhya holds immense significance in Hinduism. Built at the birthplace of Lord Ram, this grand temple complex is a symbol of faith and devotion for millions of devotees worldwide. Its magnificent architecture and spiritual ambience make it a must-visit destination for pilgrims and tourists alike. How to Reach: The nearest airport is Ayodhya Airport, and Ayodhya Dham is the nearest railway station. Deity: Lord Ram <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Badrinath Temple - Badrinath, Uttarakhand" comment="subhead" text="Badrinath Temple - Badrinath, Uttarakhand">Badrinath Temple - Badrinath, Uttarakhand</cmsannotation> <div type="image" title="8" msid="109857695" hostid="261" sizebytes="1836239" caption="&amp;lt;p&amp;gt;Amidst Himalayan peaks, Badrinath Temple offers solace to seekers of the divine&amp;lt;/p&amp;gt;"></div>Badrinath Temple, located in Uttarakhand, attracts devotees with its beauty and spiritual significance. It's one of India's four Char Dham pilgrimage sites and a stunning destination. To see Badrinath, plan your visit between April and November because heavy snow makes winter travel impossible. This temple is famous as one of the Vishnu <keyword id="21535692" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="temples-in-India" source="keywords">temples in India</keyword>. How to Reach: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, and Rishikesh Railway Station is the nearest railhead. From there, travellers can take buses or taxis to reach Badrinath. Deity: Lord Badri Narayan (Vishnu) Whether you seek spiritual solace, cultural immersion, or architectural marvels, India's temples offer a profound and enriching experience for travellers. Plan your pilgrimage or leisurely visit to these sacred sites and immerse yourself in the spiritual vibrancy of India's temple heritage. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Frequently asked questions" comment="subhead" text="Frequently asked questions">Frequently asked questions</cmsannotation> 1. What is the significance of the Char Dham pilgrimage, and which temples are included in it? The Char Dham pilgrimage holds great spiritual importance for Hindus, as it encompasses four sacred sites: Badrinath, Dwarka, Puri, and Rameswaram. Pilgrims believe that visiting these temples will wash away their sins and lead to spiritual liberation. 2. Are there any dress codes or etiquette rules to follow when visiting Indian temples? Yes, many temples in India have dress codes and etiquette guidelines. Visitors are usually required to dress modestly, covering their shoulders and legs, and remove their shoes before entering the inner sanctum. Additionally, maintaining silence and refraining from photography in certain areas are common etiquettes observed in temples. 3. Are there any specific rituals or ceremonies that visitors can participate in during their temple visit? Yes, many temples offer rituals and ceremonies that visitors can participate in, such as aarti (prayer ceremonies), prasad (offering to the deity), and abhishekam (ritual bathing of the deity). These rituals provide devotees with an opportunity to connect spiritually and seek blessings from the divine. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/travel/india/10-most-famous-and-beautiful-temples-in-delhi-that-you-must-visit-once/slidelist/102716646.cms" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">10 Most famous and beautiful temples in Delhi that you must-visit once</a>

Top temples to visit in India you must visit atleast once in a lifetime

Dedicated to Lord Ayyappa, the <keyword id="453325" type="UNKNOWN" weightage="20" keywordseo="sabarimala-temple">Sabarimala temple</keyword> is located in Pathanamthitta district of Kerala. One of the most popular pilgrim sites and thronged by a huge inflow of devotees from all over the world, this centuries old temple boasts a lot of interesting facts including the following, which you might not know. The Lord killed the demoness Mahishi in this place Mythology says this place is where the Lord killed the demoness Mahishi. Incarnating from the powers of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu, Ayyappa killed the demoness Mahishi at this place. Mahishi was the sister of Mahishasura, the demon who was earlier killed by goddess Durga. Number 18 is the highlight of this temple There are 18 steps leading to the sanctum sanctorum of the temple. These 18 gold plated steps of Sabarimala have a deep religious and spiritual significance. Also, Sabarimala is located amidst 18 hills of mesmerizing natural beauty that are found clad with green vegetation. Austere life for 41 days The devotees of Lord Ayyappa observe a strict kind of austere life for 41 days before visiting the temple. The main aspects of life during this period include celibacy, vegetarian diet, avoiding the cutting of nails and hair and sleeping on the floor without comforts. It is said that this practice exists for more than 1,500 years. The preparatory phase to visit the temple also has a strict dress code that requires the devotees to wear black or blue or saffron colored dresses. The devotees wear some garlands made of Tulsi plant beads in their necks and Vibhuti and sandal paste on their foreheads. Connections with Islam Sabarimala has strong connections with Islam as there is a temple dedicated to Vavar, a Muslim Sufi saint. Though the exact history of Vavar is not known to us, mythology says he assisted the local prince who came in search of the Sabarimala temple a few hundred years back. There is a mosque dedicated to Vavar in the vicinity of the temple. The temple has an official song Every day before the closing of the temple, a melodious song that has 108 words set in 8 stanzas is recited in front of the main deity. This song was composed by Srinivasa Iyer who sang this song in front of Ayyappa for many years. The name of this place has its roots in the Ramayana During the times of Ramayana, there lived an ascetic woman named Sabari in this region. She was doing a strict penance for several years only to see Lord Sriram. Finally Ram visited her and accepted her humble offerings. The hill got the name Sabarimala after this historical character. Holy bath with ghee is highly auspicious to the main deity The holy bath given to the main deity is called as Neiyyabhishekam. This is done with the ghee carried to the temple by the devotees who observe fasting and use emptied coconut shell to carry the ghee to the temple bundled in the same color cloth that the devotees wear during the 41 days austerity period before visiting the temple.

Unknown Facts About Sabarimala Temple

<ul><li><ul><li>Cultural diplomat and author <keyword id="182794" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Amish-Tripathi" source="Orion">Amish Tripathi</keyword>’s new book <keyword id="14079627" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="War-of-Lanka" source="Orion">War of Lanka</keyword> sold six and a half million copies within two weeks of launch. </li><li>War of Lanka also saw India’s first Metaverse launch for a book, where an augmented reality filter was uploaded on Instagram for users. </li><li>India has become wealthier post 1991 and the emergence of ‘real’ India is inspiring films based on myths, says Tripathi. </li></ul> </li></ul>From the time he left his banking job to become a full-time writer in 2011, Amish Tripathi has attempted to give Indian deities human-like attributes through his take on myths. In his books, deities get angry, make human mistakes and even poke fun at each other. Director Shekhar Kapur, who is making a web series on Tripathi’s <keyword id="810431" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Shiva-Trilogy" source="Orion">Shiva trilogy</keyword>, called him ‘India’s literary popstar’. Tripathi’s first trilogy on deity Shiva became the fastest-selling book series in Indian publishing history. His most recent book ‘War of Lanka’ has already sold six and a half million copies and is currently under reprint. What makes his books popular is not just the content but also his marketing hooks. He roped in marketing agency Think WhyNot to launch an augmented reality filter on Instagram for the ‘War of Lanka’. Custom merchandise or making the first music album in Indian publishing history for ‘The Oath of the Vayuputras’ – the third book in his Shiva Trilogy – are some other marketing examples. The author of seven books encapsulating the stories of Ram, Raavan, Sita and Shiva, Tripathi talks to Business Insider India about topics ranging from the importance of myths to the impact of the pandemic on the publishing industry. Currently serving as a cultural diplomat as head of the Nehru Center in London, Tripathi also shares his take on the real India. <keyword id="14491960" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="UK-Prime-Minister-Rishi-Sunak" source="Orion">UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak</keyword> invited you to 10 Downing Street, how was the experience? Oh, it was very nice. It was a small get-together in 10 Downing Street, a celebration of Diwali. He had got people from the local Swami Chinmaya Mission to read a prayer. We did a proper lighting of the lamp with traditional rituals. It was also very nice to see so many native White British and other communities in attendance, celebrating a Hindu/Jain/Sikh festival with warmth and happiness. It's been almost a month since War of Lanka has been released. How has the response been? I will be honest. Prior to the launch of the book, I was a little nervous, quite nervous, actually, for various reasons. One, it was a completely new publisher and a new relationship. Secondly, Harper just had a few months post the contract signing to get the book out in the market. To bring the book out in just three-four months is difficult… I thought they did a very good job. Third was the pandemic, which had hit the publishing industry badly, and many bookstores and publishing houses had shut down. Since the distribution itself was shrinking, sales would be difficult. Lastly, since I also have a diplomatic job in the UK, I did not have that much time for the book tour. Normally, my book tour would spread out over three-four months, but now I only had three-four weeks; and I had to cover 14 cities across India in that time. But despite these constraints, War of Lanka is breaking records. It is selling even faster than Raavan: Enemy of Aryavarta. And all my previous book sales have also shot up. I can’t thank my readers enough for their consistent love and support. I am curious to know why you haven't written about Hanuman, a Shiva incarnation, especially after having dedicated separate books to Ram, Ravan and Sita? I might take that up actually. Lord Hanuman is a very fascinating character and represents loyalty, having a code and staying true to it, no matter what. That's what makes him worth respecting and worshiping. There is a separate spin-off story in mind that I have for Lord Hanuman. And one I hope to take up after some time. There will also be a story on Guru Vashishta and Guru Vishwamitra and how their relationship turned from friendship to enmity. People say youngsters don’t read as different forms of medium are competing for attention. Why do you think your book has struck a chord with the readers? Is it because of your standout marketing techniques as with a metaverse launch of the book? The metaverse campaign was very innovative, yes. And I am very grateful to Sangram Surve and his Think WhyNot agency for putting this together in association with Meta. Also, I think this assumption that the youth don't read is, frankly, a judgmental approach. The idea that today’s youth have low IQ, low attention spans, and only want to entertain themselves with flaky things is just plain silly. One person can have different tastes. I like thought-provoking movies like Schindler’s List or Inception, but I also like the suspension-of-brains movies of Salman Khan. The youth are like that as well. By the way, a vast majority of my readers are young. Second when it comes to marketing, social media has made word of mouth very powerful. The opinion of critics matters little now as compared to a decade ago. There are movies that are very well marketed that have been super flops. And a movie that had almost minimal marketing spends, like Kantara, was a massive hit. At the heart of it all, it has to be a good product, be it a movie or a book. If it's not a good product, no matter how much marketing you do, it's not going to work. If there is no depth in the movie or the book, if there's nothing to talk about, then word-of-mouth will be poor. A cult book has to be thought-provoking and initiate conversations. I myself tried the AR filters on Instagram and I came out to be on Raavan’s army. It would interest you to know that while many modern Indians think Raavan is Tamilian or Lankan, this may not necessarily match up to ancient texts. When you study ancient texts or folk traditions, it is revealed Raavan was born close to Delhi, a little ahead of Noida. One of the oldest temples of Raavan is situated there. He was not the original ruler of Lanka. The original ruler was Kubaer. Raavan deposed Kubaer and took over Lanka. Will you be venturing into writing about any other epic like Mahabharat? I do have various ideas. Let's see where life takes me. There is a fifth book that will join the Shiva Trilogy and the Ramachandra series called the <keyword id="15501176" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Rise-of-Meluha" source="Orion">Rise of Meluha</keyword>. But that will be released many years later. Is there a reason why Sita was portrayed as aggressive and militant in your book Sita-Warrior of Mithila? Was this because it has been written from a male perspective? There is a difference between being militant and being strong. Goddess Durga is not militant but she is strong. The image of Goddess Sita in the minds of modern urban Indians is largely inspired from a 1980s television series. In the original Valmiki Ramayana, Sita is portrayed in a much stronger form. And in the Adbhut Ramayan, also credited to Valmiki ji, Sita Maa is the one who kills the elder, more powerful Raavan. In ancient times, Indian women were seen as powerful with their own agency. We had women who ruled large empires like Rani Prabhavatigupta and Rani Rudramadevi. We had women Rishis (roughly the equivalent of Abrahamic prophets and messiahs). We even had women who founded universities. Frankly, our ancestors would be disappointed at how badly we, in modern India, treat women. We have been hearing about the Shiva trilogy for quite some time now. Is it expected soon? These are early days as we just started work on it. So let's see how it comes out. But we'll make announcements in the future. Coming to Indian cinema, there has been a shift in the portrayal of stories. Films are being inspired by myths like in Adipurush, Thank God, Ram Sethu, Ponniyan Selvan. Why do you think there is such a shift? Post 1991 India has become wealthier and the emergence of the real India is inspiring the demand for such stories. There is a real India that was always there, just that they didn't have money to form a big market. That is the India outside of the elite areas of our big cities. This is an India that is very deeply rooted in our ancient traditions and culture. And now, there are many citizens from the real India who have now risen because of economic growth over the last 30 years. A recent IMF report had said over 450 million Indians have been pulled out of poverty just in the last 10 years. And economic growth is creating a new consumer class. Smaller budget movies are making more money than big Hindi film movies because I think in many ways, Telugu, Kannada and Tamil movies are more rooted in the real India. This is something perhaps the Hindi film industry will pick up overtime. A Hindi film producer told me an interesting analysis. He felt that perhaps the Hindi film industry had become too elitist – he used the term ‘focused on Pali Hill, and South Mumbai and also perhaps, London &amp; New York’. He said that we should forget that there is a real India outside of Pali Hill and South Mumbai. And that is the main market for Indian movies. What does real India mean to you? Perhaps those who are more comfortable in Mangalore or Varanasi than in London, I think that's the real India. So, someone like you or me… My family’s roots are in Kashi and I was born in Mumbai; so I know English, Hindi, and some Marathi. But I can go to a Lord Shiva temple in Thrissur, Kerala. And I’ve been there actually, four-five years ago. I don’t understand Malayalam, but my books, by God's grace, do well in Malayalam. There were many out there who recognized me because many of them had read my books. But we couldn’t communicate well with each other because most of them there didn’t know English or Hindi, and I didn’t know Malayalam. And yet, when we started chanting and praying to Lord Shiva, we felt connected. I felt at home. That to me is the real India. Where we feel at home. Now, we may also get along with Western people, but essentially, where is home for us? For me, the real India is home. You began your journey as a writer in 2010. How has the scene of Indian publishing and marketing changed since then? This is the best and worst of times. Earlier the definition of bestseller was selling 5,000 to 10,000 books. Today a bestseller should sell at least 40,000 to 50,000 copies. There are some authors whose books sell in the hundreds of thousands. And few, such as Chetan and me, who are lucky enough for our books to sell in the millions. But on the negative side, GST has really hit the industry. I have myself appealed often to the government if they could give some relief on this, because we are a very tiny industry. Books have a positive impact culturally but in terms of revenue, we are very small. Second, piracy is hurting us a great deal. Many bookstores are suffering hard times as well because rental costs have shot up and piracy has hit them. Books in terms of price to space ratio are not as high as compared to jewelry or mobile phones, so high rental costs often make bookstore unviable. How do you think mythology is relevant in today's society? Indians often confuse myth with mithya or untruth. The Indian word for it would be Itihas or Kavya or Purana. The English word myth comes from the Greek word mythos, which means a story hiding a philosophical truth. I try to explore philosophies that I think are worth learning. Rather than making it a pedantic nonfiction philosophy textbook, if you try and bring it across through a story, you might have a greater chance of having an impact. There are various philosophies from our ancients that are worth learning. There is a line which I love, Ati Sarvatra Varjayet i.e. extremism of any kind should be avoided. But if you see the western approach, it is almost like extremism should be followed, always. For example, in the West, fighting for women’s rights gets translated into hatred for men. How's that good for society? I try to explore many of these philosophies through my books. What are the choices that we make? You will find that cultures which celebrate myths tend to be much more wise and liberal, intuitively liberal. You have celebrated devotees of both Vishnu and Shiva in your books. How do you strike a balance between the two? This so-called competition between Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu is relatively modern. The Indian way is we are comfortable with multiple truths and we realise that the source is unity. One of the thousand names of Lord Vishnu listed in Vishnu Shahasranaam, which is chanted by many Vaishnavas (devotees of Lord Vishnu) regularly, is Shiva. On the other hand, many Shaivites (devotees of Lord Shiva) know the 1008 names of Lord Shiva that are listed in many of the found in the Shaivite puranas. And one of the names listed for Lord Shiva is Vishnu. So they are One and the Same. This competition is more between unwise devotees and should be avoided.

Raavan was born in Delhi, a little ahead of Noida: Amish Tripathi

Sri Krishna, the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu is also known as the Purna Avatar or the complete manifestation of the supreme cosmic energy. Krishna was born on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the dark phase of the lunar month (Krishna Paksha) in the month of Shravan. Krishnashtami, Krishna Jayanti, or <keyword id="218220" type="PERSON" weightage="100" keywordseo="Krishna-Janmashtami" source="Orion">Krishna Janmashtami</keyword> is celebrated in Hindu households. Krishna gave us the most sacred teaching of Bhagavad Gita. Several miracles and divine plays performed by Lord Krishna are described in the Bhagavad Gita and Mahabharata. Hence Krishna is revered as Jagadguru or the divine master who dispels darkness and lights the lamp of wisdom in people’s hearts. On the day of Krishnashtami, greet your near and dear ones with some select messages and quotes shared here. <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Krishna janmashtami 2022 messages and greetings" comment="subhead" text="Krishna janmashtami 2022 messages and greetings">Krishna janmashtami 2022 messages and greetings</cmsannotation> <ul><li>Krishna, the divine teacher of the universe, is always here with you -- to guide you to lead your life with clarity, joy, confidence, and hope. Let the day of Krishnashtami ignite benevolent spirits in you and dispel the darkness of ignorance. May you be blessed with divine protection. </li><li>May Lord Krishna be with you and your family, always! Blessings of Health, Wealth, Love, and Happiness. Happy Janmashtami!</li><li>Murli Manohar… Giridhara Gopala… Govinda Hari… This Janmashtami, as you chant the names of Shri Lord Krishna, may he shower upon you his divine blessings. Happy Krishna Janmashtami!</li><li>Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna… Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare… Wishing you a happy and blessed Krishna Janmashtami!</li><li>May the blessings of Lord Krishna enhance each moment of your life… this Janmashtami… and always!</li><li>May the blessings of Lord Krishna always be with you and your family. Wishing you and your family a very Happy Janmashtami!</li><li>May Lord Krishna bless you and your family with peace and happiness… Happy Krishna Janmashtami!</li><li>Sending your way, warm heartfelt wishes. May you enjoy this joyous occasion. Happy Janmashtami!</li><li>May the Natkhat Nand Lal always provide you and your family with happiness, health, and prosperity. </li><li>May the festival of Janmashtami bring you joy, peace, and love. Happy Krishna Janmashtami!</li><li>May Lord Krishna's flute invite the melody of love into your life. Wishing you all very Happy Janmashtami!.</li><li>May Lord Krishna steal all your tensions and worries… And give you all the love, peace, and happiness on this holy occasion of Krishna Janmashtami.</li><li>On this Janmashtami, may all your wishes come true and may Nand Gopal shower his blessings on you and your loved ones! Happy Janmashtami!</li><li>May the blessings of Lord Krishna fill your life with happiness on this Janmashtami.</li><li>May Lord Krishna give you strength and inspire you to face all problems in life with great courage. Happy Krishna Janmashtami!</li><li>May Lord Krishna come to your house and take away your Makhan &amp; Mishri along with all your worries &amp; sorrows.</li><li>Let there be love and laughter in your life with Lord Krishna's blessings. Happy Janmashtami!</li><li>On this holy occasion of Shri Krishna Janmashtami, I hope and pray that the blessings of Shri Krishna may always be with you. May your heart and home be filled with happiness, peace and prosperity. Happy Janmashtami!</li><li>This Shri Krishna Janmashtami, eliminate the Kansa within you, to restore Dharma. May only goodness prevail. Here's wishing a very Happy Shri Krishna Janmashtami to you and your family.</li><li>May this auspicious occasion of Shri Krishna Janmashtami bring a lot of positivity, peace and harmony in your life. Happy Janmashtami to you.</li><li>May Lord Krishna give you strength and inspire you to face all problems in life with great courage. Happy Krishna Janmashtami!</li></ul> <cmsannotation type="cmsannotation" annotationid="Happy Krishna Janmashtami - quotes from Bhagavad Gita" comment="subhead" text="Happy Krishna Janmashtami - quotes from Bhagavad Gita">Happy Krishna Janmashtami - quotes from Bhagavad Gita</cmsannotation> "The secret of karma yoga which is to perform actions without any fruitive desires is taught by Lord Krishna in the Bhagavad-Gita" - Swami Vivekananda "It is better to perform one’s own duties imperfectly than to master the duties of another. By fulfilling the obligations one is born with, a person never comes to grief" "The message of the Gita is to be found in the second chapter of the Gita where Lord Krishna speaks of the balanced state of mind, of mental equipoise" - Mahatma Gandhi "The mind is restless and difficult to restrain, but it is subdued by practice" "Experience cold or heat, pleasure, or pain. These experiences are fleeting; they come and go. Bear them patiently" "I enter into each planet, and by My energy, they stay in orbit. I become the moon and thereby supply the juice of life to all vegetables"

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