Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya Namaha!
Om Nama Shivaya!Jai Maata di!
Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh !
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We have all heard about Mt. Kailash but very few of us have seen and felt the divine sacredness of this holy mountain. In today's teerth yatra lets see some of the wonderful pictures of Mt. Kailash and hope that perhaps one day, we can go there and offer our pranams at this Divine and Sacred abode of Lord Shiva
To the Hindus, the Himalayas are central to their cosmology. The peaks are the petals of the Golden Lotus which lord Vishnu created as a first step in the formation of the universe. On one of these peaks – Mount Kailash, sits Shiva in a state of perpetual meditation, generating the spiritual force that sustains the cosmos. Of the three worlds–patala (netherworld), prithvi (earth) and swargalok (heaven)–only Shiva lives on this planet and Mount Kailash is his abode.
To the Hindus, the Himalayas are central to their cosmology. The peaks are the petals of the Golden Lotus which lord Vishnu created as a first step in the formation of the universe. On one of these peaks – Mount Kailash, sits Shiva in a state of perpetual meditation, generating the spiritual force that sustains the cosmos. Of the three worlds–patala (netherworld), prithvi (earth) and swargalok (heaven)–only Shiva lives on this planet and Mount Kailash is his abode.
Apparently Mount Kailash was discovered by king Gurlamandhata, after whom the highest Mt. Gurula (Mamonani) is named. At 22,027 ft, is said to have been formed 30 million years ago during the early stages of the formation of the Himalayan chain. In geological terms, Kailash stands alone, the world’s largest deposit of tertiary conglomerate.
The Vishnu Purana (approx 200 BCE) described how the world is made up of seven continents ringed by seven oceans — “The central continent has Meru at its core, bounded by three mountain ranges to the north and three to the south. One of these ranges is the Himalayan barrier, interposed between Meru and ‘Bharatha’, the Indian subcontinent. Meru, the center, is Mount Kailash.
The Vishnu Purana (approx 200 BCE) described how the world is made up of seven continents ringed by seven oceans — “The central continent has Meru at its core, bounded by three mountain ranges to the north and three to the south. One of these ranges is the Himalayan barrier, interposed between Meru and ‘Bharatha’, the Indian subcontinent. Meru, the center, is Mount Kailash.
Kailash means "Treasure or Saint of Snow Mountain" in Tibetan. The name originates from the year-round snow on its peak and its historical religious connections. The mountain is sometimes called "Mother of Iceberg". It appears to be gazing at another mountain, Namcha Barwa, or "Father of Iceberg" in the far distance. Mt. Kailash is the highest peak in the massive Gangdise mountain range with an altitude over 6,600 meters (21654 ft.). The peak is very pointed and looks like a pyramid piercing the sky. Seen from the south the vertical ice trough and horizontal rock formation combine as the Buddhist symbol Swastika, which represents the eternal power of Buddha. More often that not, clouds will gather above the peak, so clear days are thought to be a blessing because local residents can get an unimpeded view.
Mt. Kailash 6714m is the most sacred mountain in Asia. It is believed to be the physical embodiment of the mythical Mt Meru, said to be the center of the universe or ‘navel of the world’ . Mt. Kailash is described with reverence as the abode of Lord Shiva who is revered as the destroyer and transformer of the Hindu Triad and his divine consort Parvati. This extraordinary mountain is regarded as the 'heart of the universe' by Hindus, Buddhists, the Jains and the Bons.. For Hindus, Mt. Kailash is abode of Shiva and the near by Mansarovar is the soul of Brahma, Tibetans call Kailash Kang Rimpoche and followers of Bon-Po, the ancient pre- Buddhist shamanistic religion of Tibet, regard Kailas as the soul of Tibet, Jains worship it as Mt Ashtapada, the peak from which the religion’s founder, Rishabanatha, achieved spiritual liberation.
Hindus believe Mt.Kailash to be the abode of Lord Shiva. For a Hindu, to make the arduous pilgrimage to Kailash and have the darshan (divine view) of Shiva's abode is to attain release from the clutches of ignorance and delusion.
The Jains call the mountain Astapada and believe it to be the place where Rishaba, the first of the twenty-four Tirthankaras attained liberation. Followers of Bon, Tibet's pre-Buddhist, shamanistic religion, call the mountain Tise and believe it to be the seat of the Sky Goddess Sipaimen. Additionally, Bon myths regard Tise as the sight of a legendary 12th century battle of sorcery between the Buddhist sage Milarepa and the Bon shaman Naro Bon-chung. Milarepa's defeat of the shaman displaced Bon as the primary religion of Tibet, firmly establishing Buddhism in its place. While the Buddha is believed to have magically visited Kailash in the 5th century BC, the religion of Buddhism only entered Tibet, via Nepal and India, in the 7th century AD. Tibetan Buddhists call the mountain Kang Rimpoche, the 'Precious One of Glacial Snow', and regard it as the dwelling place of Demchog (also known as Chakrasamvara) and his consort, Dorje Phagmo. Three hills rising near Kang Rimpoche are believed to be the homes of the the Bodhisatvas Manjushri, Vajrapani, and Avalokiteshvara.
Pilgrims to Kailash, after the difficult journey getting there, are then confronted with the equally arduous task of circumambulating the sacred peak. This walking around the mountain (clockwise for the Buddhists, counter-clockwise for Bon adherents) is known as a Kora, or Parikrama, and normally takes three days. In hopes of gaining extra merit or psychic powers however, some pilgrims will vary the tempo of their movement. A hardy few, practicing a secret breathing technique known as Lung-gom, will power themselves around the mountain in only one day. Others will take two to three weeks for the Kora by making full body prostrations the entire way. It is believed that a pilgrim who completes 108 journeys around the mountain is assured enlightenment. Most pilgrims to Kailash will also take a short plunge in the nearby, highly sacred (and very cold) Lake Manosaravar.
The word 'manas' means mind or consciousness; the name Manosaravar means Lake of Consciousness and Enlightenment. Adjacent to Manosaravar is Rakas Tal or Rakshas, the Lake of Demons. Pilgrimage to this great sacred mountain and these two magical lakes is a life changing experience and an opportunity to view some of the most magical scenery on the entire planet.
Walking around the mountain is a popular ceremony despite the length and difficult terrain. According to the sayings of Buddhism, one circle around the mountain can atone for all the sins committed throughout one's lifetime. Completing ten circles around the mountain will prevent eternal damnation of hell tribulation in one's reincarnations of 500 years. Completing one hundred circles will make a person one with Buddha. While walking, Buddhists follow clockwise while Bonists proceed in a counter-clockwise direction. In the horse year when Sakyamuni, the founder of Buddhism, is said to be born, worshippers get credit for thirteen circles for every one completed. Naturally, these years draw the largest number of tourists.
One circle around the mountain is 52 km (32.31 mi.) long and takes about three days. Because of the high altitude, weather changes frequently.
One circle around the mountain is 52 km (32.31 mi.) long and takes about three days. Because of the high altitude, weather changes frequently.
While proceeding downwards from Dolma - La (Dolma Pass), a steep descent will lead you to Gauri Kund at 5608 m. Some call it the ‘Lake of compassion’.Gauri Kund is connected with Shiva's wife Parvati, also known as Gauri in various parts of India. In Hindu folklore, Gauri committed Herself to penance involving many ascetic and yogic practices to win over Shiva's affections. Local tradition claims that Gauri Kund is the spot where Gauri lived while carrying out these practices and it was here that Shiva finally admitted His love for Her. They were finally married at Triyugi Narayan, which is not too far away. This pilgrimage site boasts of a natural hot spring and this is one of the reasons that supposedly prompted Gauri to pick this as a place to indulge in hard penance.
This place is also associated with the legend of how Ganesha acquired his elephant head. While bathing in the kund, Goddess Parvati fashioned Ganesha from the soap suds on Her body, breathed life into Him and placed Him at the entrance as Her guard. Lord Shiva happened to arrive at the spot suddenly and He was stopped by Ganesha. Indignant at this affront, Shiva cut off Ganesha's head and Parvati was inconsolable. She insisted that the boy be brought back to life and Shiva took the head of a wandering elephant and placed it on Ganesha's body. Parvati had Her son back and Ganesha acquired the persona by which He is known all over the Hindu world since then.
Holy Mansarovar lake is stunningly set on the Tibetan plateau at an elevation of 4510m, and bordered by the majestic Gurla Mandata is more important to Hindus than to Buddhists. To complete the revered Mt. Kailash Yatra, Hindu pilgrims make 85km. circuit around Manasarovar crossing streams. Hindus has strong faith that the ritual bath will deliver a pilgrim to Brahm's paradise and drink of its water releases the sins of a hundred lifetimes.
Myth & Mystery
According to Hindu mythology, Shiva, the god of destruction and regeneration, resides at the summit of a legendary mountain named Kailāśā. Mount Kailāśā is regarded in many sects of Hinduism as Paradise, the ultimate destination of souls and the spiritual center of the world
According to Hindu mythology, Shiva, the god of destruction and regeneration, resides at the summit of a legendary mountain named Kailāśā. Mount Kailāśā is regarded in many sects of Hinduism as Paradise, the ultimate destination of souls and the spiritual center of the world
According to a description in the Puranas, Mount Kailash's four faces are made of crystal, ruby, gold, and lapis lazuli; it is the pillar of the world; rises 84,000 leagues high; is the center of the world mandala; and is located at the heart of six mountain ranges symbolizing a lotus. From it flow four rivers, which stretch to the four quarters of the world and divide the world into four regions.
This legendary mountain has long been identified with the striking peak in the Himalayas that now bears its name. Shiva is therefore believed to dwell at its summit. Some traditions say the mountain is Shiva's linga, while Lake Manasarowar is the yoni of his consort.
Tibetan Buddhists believe that Kailash is the home of the Buddha Demchok (also known as Demchog or Chakrasamvara), who represents supreme bliss. They also say it was on this sacred mountain that Buddhism displaced Bön as the primary religion of Tibet.
According to legend, Milarepa, champion of Tantric Buddhism, arrived in Tibet to challenge Naro-Bonchung, representative of Bön. The two magicians engaged in a great sorcerous battle, but neither was able to gain a decisive advantage.
Finally, it was agreed that whoever could reach the summit of Kailash first would be the victor. While Naro-Bonchung soared up the slope on a magic drum, Milarepa's followers were dumbfounded to see him sitting still and meditating. Yet when Naro-Bonchung was nearly at the top, Milarepa suddenly moved into action and overtook him by riding on the rays of the sun, thus winning the contest and bringing Buddhism to Tibet.
According to legend, Milarepa, champion of Tantric Buddhism, arrived in Tibet to challenge Naro-Bonchung, representative of Bön. The two magicians engaged in a great sorcerous battle, but neither was able to gain a decisive advantage.
Finally, it was agreed that whoever could reach the summit of Kailash first would be the victor. While Naro-Bonchung soared up the slope on a magic drum, Milarepa's followers were dumbfounded to see him sitting still and meditating. Yet when Naro-Bonchung was nearly at the top, Milarepa suddenly moved into action and overtook him by riding on the rays of the sun, thus winning the contest and bringing Buddhism to Tibet.
In Jainism, Kailash is known as Mount Ashtapada and is the site where the founder of their faith, Rishabhadeva, attained liberation from rebirth.
In Bön, the religion which predates Buddhism in Tibet, the mountain is believed to be the abode of the sky goddess Sipaimen.
In Bön, the religion which predates Buddhism in Tibet, the mountain is believed to be the abode of the sky goddess Sipaimen.
No pilgrims climb Mt. Kailash; all four religions believe it would be a serious act of sacrilege to set foot on its slopes. Legend has it that the only person to have reached the summit is the Buddhist champion Milarepa (who flew to the top in the 12th century) and that all others who have ventured to defy the taboo have died in the process.
The mountain is located in a particularly remote and inhospitable area of the Tibetan Himalayas. Only those in the best health are able to undertake the journey even to the starting point of the circumambulation, let alone walk 52 km in a single day. A few modern amenities, such as benches, resting places and refreshment kiosks, exist to aid the pilgrims in their devotions.
Most pilgrims and trekkers take three days to complete the journey around Mount Kailash from the city of Darchen, aiming for Drirapuk Monastery on the first night, crossing Dolma La Pass and arriving at Zutrulpuk Monastery the second night, and finally returning to Darchen on the third day.
Location map and aerial view of Mount Kailash.
My Humble pranams to this sacred and divine abode of Lord Shiva
Lake Mansarova lies about 20 km (12.43 mi.) southeast of Mt. Kailash. It means Invincible Jade Lake in Tibetan. The name originates from a story that Buddhism wins a victory against Bon in a religious match beside the lake. The lake is the same "Jade Pool of Western Kingdom" described by the high monk Xuanzang of the Tang Dynasty (618-907) in his Westward Diary.
The altitude of the lake is about 4,588 meters (15,052.49 ft.), making it one of the highest fresh water lakes in the world. The water is very limpid and bright. The Hindu legend has that it is the amrita designed by the great god Brahma that can wash away all one's sins as well as any anxiety or improper thoughts. Many pilgrims bathe in the lake and take some water back as a gift to their relatives and friends. The surrounding area is the point of origin for India's two most famous rivers, the Indus and the Ganges. Walking around the lake also has ceremonial value for the Tibetan and always follows clockwise. There are many temples along the way, the two most notable being the Jiwu and the Chugu.Walking around the lake one circle takes about 4 days, 90 km. (55.92 mi.) long in all. Wading in the cold steams along the way is a bit challenging
The altitude of the lake is about 4,588 meters (15,052.49 ft.), making it one of the highest fresh water lakes in the world. The water is very limpid and bright. The Hindu legend has that it is the amrita designed by the great god Brahma that can wash away all one's sins as well as any anxiety or improper thoughts. Many pilgrims bathe in the lake and take some water back as a gift to their relatives and friends. The surrounding area is the point of origin for India's two most famous rivers, the Indus and the Ganges. Walking around the lake also has ceremonial value for the Tibetan and always follows clockwise. There are many temples along the way, the two most notable being the Jiwu and the Chugu.Walking around the lake one circle takes about 4 days, 90 km. (55.92 mi.) long in all. Wading in the cold steams along the way is a bit challenging
May this sacred Mt. Kailash bless us with the glimpse of Brahm's paradise and May the holy sip of the waters of Lake Mansarovar release our sins of a hundred lifetimes.
Stupas, with the north face of Mount Kailash (background)
North face of Mount Kailas.
South face of Mount Kailash at sunset
May Lord Shiva shower us with the bliss of peace with in us.
Latest news regarding the Sai temple in London:
The below mail was sent to me bya Sai devotee in London
THREAT TO CLOSE SHIRDI SAI BABA TEMPLE, LONDON
URGENT HELP NEEDED FROM SAI DEVOTEES IN LONDON
URGENT HELP NEEDED FROM SAI DEVOTEES IN LONDON
We write to advise you about the difficulties that certain politicians at Brent Town Hall are creating for Shirdi Sai Baba Temple, LondonThe premises at Union Road, Wembley that temple had occupied since January 2010 had D1 use class (License to use a premises as a place of worship) for many years. However, in July 2010, for reasons unknown, the Planning Officers misled temple authority to apply for the D1 use permission when there was no need to do so. In good faith, temple authority trusted them and submitted a new application.Temple authority has done everything possible and realistic to comply with the requirements of the planning department and their proposal was also positively acknowledged and received by the Planning officer. However, for some unknown reasons, there has been a concerted effort on some part of the Council to close the temple.Temple application will be heard at planning committee meet on Wednesday 23rd Feb 2011 at 7 PM at Brent town hall (Forty Lane, Wembley, Middlesex, HA9 9HD) committee rooms 2nd floor. We strongly recommend and request support of all Sai devotees in UK by attendance at 6:45 pm by you and your colleagues. The planning officers have apparently now been asked to review the status but unfortunately recommended the refusal of this application. The fate of the existence of this temple is purely in your hands and your presence at this meeting will be greatly needed and appreciated.
KINDLY SIGN THE PETITION TO SAVE TEMPLE BY CLICKING FOLLOWING LINK:
Petition To Save Shirdi Sai Baba Temple London petition
http://www.petition.co.uk/
http://www.petition.co.uk/
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