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"Paatal" Netherworld - waiting to be explored

Paatal, in Indian mythology, is often compared to the domain below the Earth’s surface. While Swarg is home to Devas, Paatal is described as the realm of Asuras and Nagas (serpent deities). It plays a prominent role in Hindu scriptures like the Puranas, Ramayana, and the story of Vamana, one of Vishnu’s avatars. In Ancient Texts, Paatal is mentioned as one of the seven realms beneath the Earth, collectively known as "Sapta Paatala." Each layer is said to have unique inhabitants and rulers. For example: Mahatala is home to many hooded Nagas Sutala is ruled by Mahabali, the Asura king. These layers are rich in treasures and mystery, often described as luminous with the jewels on the heads of Nagas. In the Vaamana Avatar, God Vishnu incarnates to humble Asur King Bali. He encompasses Swarg, Prithvi, and Paatal as part of his three steps. The Ramayana elaborates further during the mention of Ahiravan, Ravana’s brother. Ahiravan abducts Ram and Lakshman to Paatal for a sacrificial...

"Siddhi" the degree for the Gods!

Remember in Ramayan when Lord Hanuman went to search for Mata Sita, he reduced his body size and entered Lanka. Again, He increased his body size to lift the entire Dronagiri mountain to obtain Sanjeevni herb to cater to Lakshman. Ever wondered how was he able to do it? And why was he the only one able to do it? Well, it just wasn't magic, but these were the results of the abilities attained by Lord Hanuman after years of training, discipline, and ancient practices once followed and taught religiously in India and these now considered Godly and magical powers were then known as "Siddhis". The mention of use of various Siddhi are mentioned quite generously in the Hindu texts but most of us have seen right past those considering them to be supernatural or simply Godly powers. Below is a list of a few Siddhis:- 1. Mahima( महिमा): Ability to increase one's size 2. Laghima( लघिमा): Ability to reduce one's weight to less than that of a feather 3. Anima ( आणिमा): Ability...

"Svarg" mythical or realistic?

According to the Hindu Literature (Mythologies- if you don't consider them to be true), Swarg is a mythical place/Kingdom that is ruled by Lord Indra - God of Rain and Thunder, where all devas reside and all souls go before reincarnation.  As per Fabels, Only the souls that are pure towards their Karma could reach the Svarg. That means mortals can not reach Svarg, but in Hindu Epics and Literature many mortals have won the battle over Indra and won the kingdom of Svarg. Many mortals have treaded the dangerous and treacherous path and reached Svarga. Below is a list of a few instances that can be found in the scriptures regarding Svarga. - From Ramayan:  Meghanath, son of Raavan got his name Indrajit (One who has defeated Indra) and won Svarga Along with him, Raavan himself and his brother Kumbhakaran have also defeated Indra and won Svarga - From Mahabharat:  Arjun during his exile, went to Svarga to obtain Daivi Astra before the battle with Kauravs Yudishtra, eldest of t...