n this compelling episode of Celebrating Hinduism with Giridhar, we explore the extraordinary life and teachings of Sage Vashishtha — one of the revered Saptarshis, the royal guru of the Solar dynasty, and the spiritual beacon behind the righteous reign of kings like Lord Rama.Sage Vashishtha was not only a guide to monarchs but also a cosmic philosopher whose wisdom transcended the world of form and ritual. We delve into:His role as Rajaguru of the Ikshvaku lineageThe profound teachings of the Yoga Vashishtha, a philosophical text exploring consciousness, illusion, and liberationHis legendary spiritual encounters with Sage VishwamitraThe path of tapas, equanimity, and dharma-based leadershipThrough Vashishtha’s life, we discover how ancient seers combined inner realization with outer responsibility, becoming luminous bridges between the cosmic and the earthly.Join Dr. K. Giridhar Gopal as he narrates the timeless relevance of Vashishtha's life — and how his wisdom still speaks to us in our modern quest for clarity, purpose, and peace.
In this introductory episode of our new podcast series, Saptarishis: The Everlasting Source of Hindu Wisdom, we explore the profound legacy of the Saptarishis — the Seven Great Seers of ancient Hindu tradition.
Who were these sages? Were they real? Why do they hold such an esteemed place in Sanatana Dharma? Through history, mythology, and emerging scientific perspectives, we trace the spiritual, astronomical, and philosophical relevance of these divine rishis who continue to guide Hindu thought and consciousness.
✨ This episode sets the stage for a 10-part journey where each sage’s unique contribution will be explored — from Vashistha’s cosmic insights to Atri’s mystical wisdom.
🎧 Tune in to learn:
Why the Saptarishis are considered the eternal torchbearers of Dharma
How ancient India saw them as both historical and cosmic figures
Why this series is relevant to modern spiritual seekers
Welcome to Celebrating Hinduism with Giridhar, where we dive deep into the spiritual heart of Sanatana Dharma.In this enlightening episode, Dr. K. Giridhar Gopal reflects on why Lord Shiva is revered as Adiyogi, the very first yogi. Discover how Shiva’s silent presence in the Himalayas, his transmission of yoga to the Saptarishis, and his embodiment of inner stillness mark the origin of yogic wisdom.Explore the symbolism, the spiritual depth, and the eternal relevance of Shiva as Adiyogi—the destroyer of ignorance and the source of self-realization. Listen in and let the wisdom of Adiyogi awaken the seeker in you.
Why do our expectations often lead to suffering? In this episode, we explore Hindu wisdom on desire, detachment, and the role of Divine Will. Drawing from the Bhagavad Gita and ancient teachings, discover how letting go of control brings true peace.
🎧 A reflective journey into surrender, self-awareness, and spiritual clarity.
Before we delve into the deep stories and teachings of the Mahabharata, this episode offers a meaningful introduction to its structure—the 18 Parvas, or books. Each Parva holds a unique message and marks a turning point in this vast epic.Join Dr. K. Giridhar Gopal as he explores why Sage Vyasa chose to divide the Mahabharata this way, what each Parva represents, and how this structure reflects the journey of life itself.
n this deeply enriching episode, we explore the life and legend of Lord Hanuman as portrayed in the Ramayana — a symbol of unwavering devotion, boundless courage, and divine grace. Join Dr. K. Giridhar Gopal as he takes you through the pivotal moments where Hanuman’s selfless service to Lord Rama transformed the course of the epic.
Discover the vision behind this podcast. Why Hinduism? Why now? A heartfelt reflection on the purpose, meaning, and spiritual relevance of celebrating Hindu wisdom today.
In this insightful episode, Dr. K. Giridhar Gopal explores a timeless human dilemma—why do expectations, even well-meaning ones, often lead to disappointment, frustration, and sorrow?
Drawing from psychology, personal experience, and ancient Hindu wisdom, the episode uncovers the emotional chain of Expectation → Frustration → Sorrow. Through powerful scriptural examples—from King Dasharatha’s heartbreak to Karna’s inner turmoil—you’ll discover how even the noblest expectations can weigh us down.
Featuring teachings from the Bhagavad Gita, this episode invites you to reflect, release, and replace expectations with peaceful intention.
🎧 Listen in to lighten your emotional load and find peace in surrender.
Welcome to Voice of Giridhar, where timeless spiritual wisdom meets everyday life.In this episode, we reflect on a powerful truth:While we plan, pray, and push, the universe often unfolds in its own time.From the Bhagavad Gita to the Ramayana, Hindu scriptures reveal a deeper pattern — that divine help comes not when we demand it, but when we’re truly ready to receive it.Through sacred verses, stories of Krishna and Hanuman, and modern reflections, we explore why delays may not be denials — but divine orchestration in disguise.
In this episode of Celebrating Hinduism with Giridhar, Dr. K. Giridhar shares the inspiring tale of Dhruva, a boy whose unwavering devotion earned him a place in the heavens as the Pole Star. Blessed by Lord Vishnu, Dhruva’s story is a timeless lesson in faith, perseverance, and divine grace. Discover how this celestial legend continues to inspire and guide us, just as Dhruva Nakshatra lights the way for travelers. Tune in now to learn about the star that never fades.
Discover the divine power of Stotrams, the sacred hymns of Hinduism, in this enlightening episode of "Celebrating Hinduism with Giridhar." Join host Giridhar as he explores the meaning and significance of Stotrams, their historical and cultural importance, and the ways they can enrich your spiritual and mental well-being. Delve into the structure of Stotrams, their different types, and the benefits of chanting them. Whether you're a lifelong devotee of Hinduism or simply curious about this ancient tradition, this podcast episode offers valuable insights into one of its most revered practices. Don't miss "The Power of Stotrams in Hinduism," coming out on Saturday the 8th April,2023. Follow @voiceofgiridhar on Twitter to stay connected and join the conversation. "Celebrating Hinduism with Giridhar" - Enriching lives with the timeless wisdom of Hinduism.
Join host Giridhar on a journey to explore the rich spiritual traditions of Hinduism. In this episode, we delve into the powerful practice of pradakshina, which involves walking around a sacred object or deity. We'll be discussing the origins and significance of the Yani Kaani Paapani Shloka, a well-known verse from Hindu scriptures that describes the cleansing effects of pradakshina on the body, speech, and mind. As we explore the deeper meaning behind this ancient practice, we'll gain a new appreciation for the transformative power of devotion and spirituality. Whether you're a lifelong practitioner or simply curious about the wonders of Hinduism, this episode is not to be missed. Tune in to "Celebrating Hinduism with Giridhar" and join the conversation on Twitter at @voiceofgiridhar.
Namaste and welcome to "Celebrating Hinduism with Giridhar"! I'm your host, Giridhar, and in this episode, I want to share with you the transformative power of chanting Achyutam Keshavam. The mantra "Achyutam Keshavam" is a beautiful and powerful chant from the Hindu tradition. It is made up of two names of Lord Vishnu, "Achyuta" meaning "immortal" or "indestructible" and "Keshava" meaning "one who has long, curly hair." Chanting Achyutam Keshavam can have incredible benefits for our physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. It can help us focus our minds, find inner peace, and connect more deeply with the Divine.
So join me as we delve into the meaning behind Achyutam Keshavam and explore the beauty and wisdom of this ancient practice. If you don't know the pronunciation of the Sanskrit mantra, please feel free to listen to the podcast episode. And let's begin by chanting together: Achyutam Keshavam!
अच्युतम् केशवं रामनारायणं,
कृष्णदामोदरं वासुदेवं हरिम्।
श्रीधरं माधवं गोपिकावल्लभं,
जानकीनायकं रामचंद्रं भजे॥
English transliteration of the Achyutam Keshavam mantra in Roman script:
Achyutam Keshavam, Rama Narayanam,
Krishna Damodaram, Vasudevam Harim,
Shreedharam Madhavam, Gopika Vallabham,
Janaki Nayakam, Ramachandram Bhaje.
Meaning:
I worship and adore Lord Achyuta (the Immortal), Keshava (one who has long curly hair), Rama-Narayana (the incarnation of Lord Vishnu as Rama), Krishna-Damodara (the one with a beautiful belly), Vasudeva (the son of Vasudeva), Hari (the remover of sorrows), Shreedhara (the wearer of Goddess Lakshmi), Madhava (the Lord of Knowledge), Gopika-Vallabha (the beloved of the gopis), Janaki-Nayaka (the husband of Sita), and Rama-Chandra (the moon-faced Lord Rama).
If you enjoy this episode, please do subscribe to our podcast channel for more fascinating conversations like this one. And if you want to stay updated on our latest episodes, follow me on Twitter @voiceofgiridhar. Thank you for joining me on this journey of discovery and celebration of Hinduism. Don't forget to tune in every Monday and Wednesday for new episodes!
Welcome to "Puranas Explained," a podcast dedicated to exploring the ancient Hindu texts known as the Puranas. In this episode, we will provide a brief overview of the Puranas and delve into their significance in Hindu mythology and culture.The Puranas are a collection of eighteen texts that were written in Sanskrit over 2,000 years ago. These texts are among the most important and influential in Hinduism, and they contain a wealth of stories and myths about various Hindu deities, kings, sages, and historical events. The Puranas also offer insights into Hindu philosophy, ethics, and morality, making them a valuable resource for understanding the complex and diverse nature of Hinduism. In this episode, we will begin by discussing the origins and development of the Puranas, as well as their structure and organization. We will explore the three main categories of Puranas, which are based on the main deity they focus on: Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. We will also discuss the importance of the Puranas in the broader context of Hinduism, and how they are used in ritual practices and cultural traditions. Throughout the podcast, we will provide context and analysis to help listeners better understand the significance of the Puranas in Hindu mythology. We will explore some of the most popular and important stories and myths found in the Puranas, such as the creation of the universe, the churning of the ocean, and the battles between the gods and demons. We will also discuss the role of the Puranas in shaping Hindu religious and social thought, as well as their influence on art, literature, and other cultural forms. Finally, we will examine the enduring legacy of the Puranas and their continued relevance in contemporary Hindu culture. We will explore how the Puranas are used today by scholars, practitioners, and the general public, and how they continue to inspire new generations of Hindus around the world.Whether you are new to Hinduism or a seasoned practitioner, "Puranas Explained" offers a rich and engaging exploration of one of the most important and complex texts in Hindu mythology. Tune in and join us on this journey of discovery and enlightenment.Don't forget to follow us on Twitter at @voiceofgiridhar for more updates, exclusive content, and to join the conversation. Thank you for listening! Tune in to "Celebrating Hinduism with Giridhar" for more enriching discussions on Hinduism and how it can enrich our lives!
Welcome to today's podcast episode, where we'll be exploring the fascinating story of the Varaha Avatar, also known as the Boat Incarnation. In Hindu religion, Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe, took on the form of a wild boar to rescue the earth from the clutches of the demon Hiranyaksha. The story of Varaha Avatar is one of the most popular and revered tales in Hinduism, and has captured the imaginations of generations of believers. Join us as we delve into this epic tale and uncover the deeper spiritual meanings hidden within. Don't forget to follow us on Twitter at @voiceofgiridhar for more updates, exclusive content, and to join the conversation. Thank you for listening! Tune in to "Celebrating Hinduism with Giridhar" for more enriching discussions on Hinduism and how it can enrich our lives!
Welcome to our latest episode, where we delve into the fascinating story of Rishi Kashyap, the Nagas, and Garuda. Join us as we explore the belief and symbolism behind this ancient Hindu tale. Don't forget to follow us on Twitter at @voiceofgiridhar for more updates, exclusive content, and to join the conversation. Thank you for listening! Tune in to "Celebrating Hinduism with Giridhar" for more enriching discussions on Hinduism and how it can enrich our lives!
In this episode of the "Spiritual Seeker" podcast, we delve into the world of Hindu religious places and the importance of bells within them. From the towering temple bells to the small hand-held ones, we explore the reasons behind their presence and the significance they hold in the Hindu faith. We also discuss the various rituals associated with bell-ringing and their connection to spirituality. Join us on this enlightening journey as we uncover the ringing truth behind the bells in Hindu religious places. Don't forget to follow us on Twitter at @voiceofgiridhar for more updates, exclusive content, and to join the conversation. Thank you for listening! Tune in to "Celebrating Hinduism with Giridhar" for more enriching discussions on Hinduism and how it can enrich our lives!
Welcome to "Spiritual Seeker", the podcast channel that delves deep into spiritual and mystical traditions. In this episode, we will explore The Divine dance of Lord Shiva and the significance of Maha Shivaratri. Lord Shiva, the Hindu God of destruction and transformation, is known for his cosmic dance, the Tandava, which represents the eternal cycle of creation, preservation, and destruction. Maha Shivaratri, one of the most important festivals in Hinduism, is celebrated in honor of Lord Shiva. It is believed to be a potent time for spiritual growth and transformation, as devotees offer prayers, perform rituals, and fast in reverence of Lord Shiva. Join us as we embark on a spiritual journey to understand the mystical and symbolic meaning behind Lord Shiva's dance, and explore the profound significance of Maha Shivaratri. Welcome to "Spiritual Seeker", the podcast channel that seeks to enlighten and inspire seekers of the spiritual path.Don't forget to follow us on Twitter at @voiceofgiridhar for more updates, exclusive content, and to join the conversation. Thank you for listening! Tune in to "Celebrating Hinduism with Giridhar" for more enriching discussions on Hinduism and how it can enrich our lives!
Welcome to the 'Story of Kurma Avatar' podcast on 'Spiritual Seeker', where we delve into the second incarnation of Lord Vishnu. In Hindu religion, Kurma Avatar, also known as the Tortoise Incarnation, is a pivotal moment in the epic story of the creation of the universe. According to legend, Lord Vishnu took on the form of a giant tortoise to help the gods and demons retrieve the elixir of immortality, which was lost at the bottom of the ocean. But what other challenges did Kurma Avatar face on this quest? And what lessons can we learn from this ancient tale? Join us as we explore the fascinating story of Kurma Avatar and the divine wisdom it holds. Don't forget to follow us on Twitter at @voiceofgiridhar for more updates, exclusive content, and to join the conversation. Thank you for listening! Tune in to "Celebrating Hinduism with Giridhar" for more enriching discussions on Hinduism and how it can enrich our lives!