Jabel Ali - Hindu Temple - Dubai UAE - A beautiful temple blessings on the New Year Dawn 2025

Happy New Year ...Auspicious beginnings for a progressive year ahead with good health, wealth and happiness and loads of peace. May Almighty shower his finest blessings to us all this great year 2025

Thanks to family and friends for making the start a memorable one... special thanks to my cousin brother Suresh n family for being there for us as we embraced the new journey with Almighty blessings this year. Awesome visit to Jabel Ali Hindu Temple and also watching fireworks n drone show at Global village

Situated in Jebel Ali Village, Dubai, UAE, within the "Worship Village," which also houses churches and other places of worship. Opened in October 2022, a historic addition to the religious landscape of the UAE. It is the second Hindu temple in Dubai after the Shiv Mandir in Bur Dubai.

• Architecture:
  • Stunning white marble façade with intricate carvings.
  • Interior features idols of deities, traditional Hindu temple decor, and a prayer hall.
  • Blend of modern and traditional designs.
• Facilities:
  • Spacious prayer hall for rituals and gatherings.
  • Dedicated areas for community services and cultural events.
  • A vegetarian dining area (prasad or food distribution).
• Deities: Includes idols of major Hindu gods such as Lord Krishna, Lord Shiva, Lord Ram, Goddess Durga, and others.
• Community Engagement:
  • Open to people of all faiths, promoting inclusivity and harmony.
  • Regular cultural programs, festivals (e.g., Diwali, Navratri), and religious ceremonies.
• Accessibility:
  • Located in proximity to Jebel Ali Metro Station and public transport.
  • Ample parking facilities for visitors.
• Cultural Harmony: Reflects Dubai's commitment to multicultural coexistence and respect for all religions.
• Visiting Hours: Typically open from morning to evening, with specific hours for darshan (viewing of deities).
• Management: Operated under the guidance of the Indian community in Dubai, in collaboration with the UAE government.

Swathi Perumal Tour from TTDC- Visit to Singirikudi, Poovarsamkuppam and Parikkal Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temples in straight line

Hindus have a strong belief that Lord Narasimha will resolve the devotees issues and bless them prosperity.

The timings for all these temples from 0830 to 1230 and for Parikkal it is up to 1 pm also.  We took the TTDC - TamilNadu Tourism tour "One Day Swati Perumal Tour" which started at the TTDC office in Chennai at 6 am and ended around 8.30 pm.   Worshipping Lord Narasimha on his birth star of Swathi Nakshatram is said to be very auspicious. 

These Narasimha avatars remind us of Prahalaatha who demonstrated the world that ego and disrespect of God would provoke lord to take avatars and perish the culprits.

We Hindus were brought up with a fear that doing evil would earn the curse of the people around as well as the God and end up our life miserably.

When you go back you get an abnormal energy and no doubt Lord gives you the strength to overcome your obstacles.

Sri Narasimhar Temple, Singiri Kudi, Cuddalore

In the Singiri Kudi temple in Cuddalore district, Lord Narasimha appears in the sanctum very furiously with 16 hands as at the time of destroying Hiranya. As He killed Hiranya facing west, here too the Lord is facing west accordingly. Feeding the devotees is the main prayer commitment followed in this temple/The temple has Lord Narasimha holds in his 16 hands various weapons as Pathakahasthem,Prayoga Chakram, a sword called Ksheerika, bow and arrow, conch, discus, armourand a beheaded head etc. while he killed Hiranya with other hands by tearing the intestine and wearing it as a garland. The temple has its own chariot also.

Sri Narasimhar@ Poovarasan Kuppam,

One of the most foremost shrines of Lakshmi Narasimha, Poovarasan Kuppam, near Villupuram (Tamil Nadu), is also called South Ahobilam. It is at this spot he gave darshan to these rishis.after the vadham of king hiranya However, the rishis could not bear the intensity of heat emitting from the Lord because of the fury andrequested his consort to calm him down.
Goddess Lakshmi sat on his thigh looking at him with one eye other eye looking at devotees

This act of the Goddess Lakshmi brought a soothing and tranquil effect on the Lord. This pose where the Goddess [thayaar/mother], looks at the devotees and her Lord simultaneously is believed to be having a conversation with the Lord presenting the devotees petitions to him. To this day, it is only at this temple in the whole world does the Lord Lakshmi Narasimhar appear in such a pose.

Sri Narasimhar Temple, Parikkal

Parikkal is a 2000 year old temple constructed from rock stone and is a famous temple for Hindus. The temple has been renovated recenly with all colours and is an eye appeal for new devotees. It is on the road to Villupuram from cuddalore/The temple has its own chariot also

This is to show that Lord Narasimha has shed His fury and graces devotees with all mercy.

Anjaneya /Hanuman ji grace devotees together. Devotees light lamps with gingely oil and spread all the nine varieties of pulses in his shrine and write on them their prayers. It is believed that their prayers would be responded..

The temple is famous for secular tradition as people of other religions – Muslims and Christian also worship the Lord here without any feeling of discrimination.

Few pictures from our visit:

Visit to Siruvapuri Sri. Bala Murugan Temple - 40 kms from Chennai - Dec 2023

 40 kms from Chennai City, the amazing abode of Lord Murugan, at Siruvapuri, with amazing history and heritage. The temple vibrations are soul touching and said to help those with dreams of building and getting into new homes.

A pleasant rainy afternoon driving into village, finding the local harvest, peaceful abhisekham at the deity, surely makes your weekend travels worthwhile

For more information, check this blog link:

http://murugan.org/temples/siruvapuri.htm

Siruvapuri Murugan Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Murugan, a popular deity in the Hindu pantheon. The temple is located in Siruvapuri near Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. Here's some information about visiting the Siruvapuri Murugan Temple:

1. Location:

   • The temple is situated in Siruvapuri, which is approximately 40 kilometers from Chennai. It is easily accessible by road.

2. Deity:

   • The presiding deity of the temple is Lord Murugan, also known as Kartikeya or Subramanya. Lord Murugan is revered as the God of War and Victory, and the temple attracts devotees seeking his blessings.

3. Temple Architecture:

   • The Siruvapuri Murugan Temple features traditional South Indian temple architecture. It typically includes a main sanctum where the main deity resides, along with various other shrines and structures within the temple complex.

4. Poojas and Rituals:

   • The temple conducts various daily and periodic poojas (rituals) dedicated to Lord Murugan. Devotees often participate in these rituals to seek the deity's blessings.

5. Festivals:

   • The temple celebrates various festivals, with special events and processions during important occasions like Thaipusam, Panguni Uthiram, and other Murugan-related festivals. Festivals can be vibrant times to visit, with increased spiritual activities.

6. Thirukalyanam (Divine Marriage):

   • The divine marriage ceremony of Lord Murugan is a significant event in many Murugan temples, including Siruvapuri Murugan Temple. Thirukalyanam is a grand celebration that attracts devotees.

7. Visiting Hours:

   • The temple typically has specific visiting hours for devotees. It is advisable to check the temple's official website or contact the temple authorities to get the latest information on opening hours.

8. Attire and Etiquette:

   • Visitors to the temple are expected to dress modestly and adhere to traditional temple etiquette. It's customary to remove footwear before entering the inner sanctum.

9. Accessibility:

• Siruvapuri is well-connected by road, and there are various transportation options available from Chennai. Devotees can reach the temple by private vehicles, taxis, or buses.

Few Pictures from our visit:

Visit to Divine Goddess Maa Dakshineswar Kali in Kolkatta, West Bengal - Dec 2023

 The Dakshineswar Kali Temple, located near Kolkata on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River, is dedicated to Goddess Kali. It holds great significance for devotees and visitors due to several reasons:

1. Goddess Kali Worship:

• The temple is primarily dedicated to Goddess Kali, a powerful and fearsome form of the Divine Mother in Hinduism. Devotees come to seek the blessings and protection of Goddess Kali.
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   Association with Ramakrishna Paramahamsa:
• One of the key factors that contribute to the significance of the Dakshineswar Kali Temple is its association with the great saint and mystic, Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. He served as the priest at the temple and attained spiritual enlightenment through intense devotion to the Goddess.
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5. Spiritual Significance:

• The temple is a center for spiritual practices, and many people visit to experience the divine energy associated with Goddess Kali. It serves as a place for meditation, prayer, and spiritual contemplation.
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7. Architectural Beauty:

• The temple itself is an architectural masterpiece. Built in the traditional Bengal style of Navaratna, the nine-spired temple is surrounded by a large courtyard. The main temple houses the idol of Goddess Kali.
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11. Location on the Banks of the Hooghly River:

    • The temple's location along the banks of the Hooghly River adds to its spiritual ambiance. Pilgrims often take a dip in the holy river before visiting the temple.

12. Festivals and Celebrations:

    • Dakshineswar Kali Temple is the venue for various festivals, including Kali Puja and Durga Puja, which are celebrated with great enthusiasm. During these festivals, the temple attracts a large number of devotees and tourists.

Pilgrimage Destination:The temple is considered a significant pilgrimage destination for devotees of Goddess Kali and followers of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. Pilgrims from different parts of India and beyond visit the temple seeking spiritual solace and blessings.

1. Historical Importance:

• The Dakshineswar Kali Temple has historical importance due to its association with Rani Rashmoni, the founder of the temple, and the spiritual experiences of Ramakrishna Paramahamsa.
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3. In summary, the Dakshineswar Kali Temple is not only a religious site but also a place of historical and cultural significance. It attracts devotees, spiritual seekers, and tourists alike who are drawn to its spiritual aura, architectural beauty, and association with revered personalities like Ramakrishna Paramahamsa.

Visit to Bangladesh Border and Boating in the Dwaki River - said to be the cleanest river in India.

 Dwaki River is located in the northeastern state of Meghalaya in India, near the India-Bangladesh border. Boating in the Dawki River is a popular activity, providing tourists with stunning views of clear turquoise waters and the surrounding hills.

                                

Here's what you can expect when boating in Dwaki River and its proximity to the Bangladesh border. The 40 kms stretch to the Dwaki - the road condition was super challenging with the recent rains when we visited. But it was worth the tedious drive.

1. Boating in Dawki River:

   • Crystal Clear Waters: Dawki River is known for its exceptionally clear waters, allowing visibility of the riverbed even at considerable depths. The clear water is a result of the limestone deposits in the region.
   • Boat Rides: Boating is a common activity in Dawki, and you can find local boat operators offering short rides. The boats used are often simple rowboats or country boats. They charge you Rs.800 per boat
   • Umngot River: Dawki is situated on the banks of the Umngot River, which is a tributary of the Dawki River. Boating on the Umngot River is a serene experience with beautiful landscapes.

2. Bangladesh Border:

   • Dawki-Tamabil Border Crossing: The Dawki-Tamabil border crossing is one of the few legal border crossings between India and Bangladesh. However, it is primarily a trade route, and access for tourists may be restricted.
   • Landmark: The Dawki Bridge, which spans the Dawki River, is a prominent landmark in the area. The bridge serves as a crossing point between India and Bangladesh.
   • Views of Bangladesh: While boating on the Dawki River, you may get distant views of the Bangladesh border and hills on the other side. However, direct access to the border area may be limited.

3. Tips for Boating:

   • Boat Ride Timing: The best time for boating is during daylight hours when you can fully appreciate the beauty of the river and surrounding landscapes. However, we enjoyed the dusk hours, just before the sun set and it was a treat it in its own way
   • Seasonal Considerations: Check for seasonal variations, as water levels and clarity can differ based on the time of year.
   • Local Guides: Consider hiring local boat guides who are familiar with the area and can provide interesting insights.

4. Travel Considerations:

   • Permits: Check if any permits are required to visit specific areas near the border, especially if you plan to go beyond regular tourist routes.
   • Local Regulations: Be aware of local regulations and respect any restrictions in place, particularly near international borders.

Remember that conditions and regulations may change, so it's advisable to check with local authorities or tour operators for the latest information before planning your visit to Dawki River and the Bangladesh border.