Latest news with #Yamraj
Daily Mirror
13-06-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
'I've researched near-death experiences, and this is what's really going on'
A doctor of psychology explains the truth about 'life after death' and why people experience the same thing People who say they have been reported being medically dead and have spent 10, 20 or even 30 minutes 'on the other side' often report experiencing similar things - from floating away from their bodies to tunnels of light and feelings of 'love'. People often say they have been reunited with lost relatives or beloved pets, or gained a final understanding of life after death But despite the seemingly supernatural nature of these experiences, experts say that science can explain why they happen – and what's really going on. Ken Drinkwater, doctor of psychology at Manchester Metropolitan University, said: "A near-death experience is a profound psychological event with mystical elements. It typically occurs in people close to death, or during situations of intense physical or emotional pain, but may also happen after heart attacks or traumatic brain injuries, or even during meditation and syncope (loss of consciousness due to a fall in blood pressure). They're surprisingly common, with a third of people who have come close to death reporting having experienced one. "Common characteristics people report are feelings of contentment, psychic detachment from the body (such as out-of-body experiences), rapid movement through a long dark tunnel, and entering a bright light. "Culture and age may also influence the kind of near-death experience people have. For example, many Indians report meeting the Hindu king of the dead, Yamraj, while Americans often claim to have met Jesus. Children typically describe encountering friends and teachers 'in the light'. "Most reported near-death experiences are positive, and have even helped in reducing death anxiety, affirming life, and increasing well-being. However, some near-death experiences are negative and include feelings such as lack of control, awareness of nonexistence, hellish imagery, or perceived judgement from a higher being." Ken said neuroscientists Olaf Blanke and Sebastian Dieguez have proposed two types of near-death experiences. Type one, which is associated with the brain's left hemisphere, features an altered sense of time and impressions of flying. Type two, involving the right hemisphere, is characterised by seeing or communicating with spirits, and hearing voices, sounds and music. He said: "While it's unclear why there are different types of near-death experiences, the different interactions between brain regions produce these distinct experiences. The temporal lobes also play an important role in near-death experiences. This area of the brain is involved with processing sensory information and memory, so abnormal activity in these lobes can produce strange sensations and perceptions." He added: "Scientific explanations for near-death experiences include depersonalisation, which is a sense of being detached from your body. Scientific author Carl Sagan even suggested that the stress of death produces a remembrance of birth, suggesting the 'tunnel' people see is a reimagining of the birth canal. "But due to the fanciful nature of these theories, other explanations have emerged. Some researchers claim that endorphins released during stressful events may produce something like near-death experience, particularly by reducing pain and increasing pleasant sensations. Similarly, anaesthetics such as ketamine can simulate near-death experience characteristics, such as out-of-body experiences." Ken told The Conversation: "Researchers have also explained near-death experiences via cerebral anoxia, a lack of oxygen to the brain. One researcher found air pilots who experienced unconsciousness during rapid acceleration described near-death experience-like features, such as tunnel vision. Lack of oxygen may also trigger temporal lobe seizures which causes hallucinations. These may be similar to a near-death experience. "But the most widespread explanation for near-death experiences is the dying brain hypothesis. This theory proposes that near-death experiences are hallucinations caused by activity in the brain as cells begin to die. As these occur during times of crisis, this would explain the stories survivors recount. The problem with this theory, though plausible, is that it fails to explain the full range of features that may occur during near-death experiences, such as why people have out-of-body experiences. "Currently, there is no definitive explanation for why near-death experiences happen. But ongoing research still strives to understand this enigmatic phenomenon. Whether paranormal or not, near-death experiences are extremely important. They provide meaning, hope, and purpose for many people, while offering an appreciation of the human desire to survive beyond death."
Time of India
31-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Ahilyabai an exemplar of women empowerment: CM
1 2 Bhubaneswar: CM Mohan Charan Majhi on Saturday lauded Ahilyabai Holkar as a pioneering social reformer and exemplar of women empowerment and good governance during her state-level 300th birth anniversary celebrations at Jayadev Bhawan here. Majhi emphasised Ahilyabai's enduring legacy in Indian history, citing her commitment to justice, courage and public service. He drew parallels between her governance principles and contemporary initiatives, including the state's Subhadra Yojana scheme for women's empowerment. Majhi also highlighted recent developments in women's leadership, referencing defence minister Rajnath Singh's briefing on Operation Sindoor and women's crucial role in the maintenance of national security. "Operation Sindoor symbolises female power. Operation Sindoor is not just the 'name' of a military operation; it is a symbol of female power," Majhi stated, connecting it to local traditions like 'Sabitri Brata'. He said a few days ago, 'Sabitri Brata' was celebrated. "Sati Sabitri fought with god of death, Yamraj, for her sindoor. To uphold the dignity of that sindoor, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken a solemn vow," he said. Majhi further said that anyone who looks at the sindoor of the women of this country with contempt will surely meet Yamraj. "This is the warning given by the PM. This country is in safe hands. The whole nation echoes today, 'If Modi is there, we are safe'," he said. Assembly speaker Surama Padhi, Deputy CM Pravati Parida, and minister for language, literature and culture, Suryabanshi Suraj, among others, were present. The event featured the launch of an Odia book titled 'Karmayogini Punyashloka Ahilyabai Holkar'.
Hindustan Times
26-05-2025
- General
- Hindustan Times
Vat Savitri 2025: Vrat katha, date, fasting timings, significance and all you need to know
Vat Savitri 2025: Vat Savitri Vrat is a significant Hindu festival observed by married women. Marking this sacred occasion, women observe a day-long fast and perform rituals around the banyan tree, offering heartfelt prayers for their husbands' well-being and enduring happiness. From date to history, here's all you need to know. (Also read: Memorial Day 2025: 40+ meaningful quotes and messages to honour and remember the fallen on Memorial Day ) This year, the auspicious festival of Vat Savitri is being observed on Monday, May 26. As per Drik Panchang, the favourable timings to perform the rituals and observe the fast are as follows: Amavasya Tithi begins -12:11 PM on May 26, 2025 Amavasya Tithi ends -08:31 AM on May 27, 2025 According to Hindu scriptures, Satyavaan was destined to have a short life, yet he married a devoted young woman named Savitri. One day, while Satyavaan was working in the forest, Yamraj, the god of death, appeared to take his soul. When Savitri found her husband lifeless, she encountered Yamraj and began to follow him, pleading for her husband's life. Despite his repeated refusals and requests for her to turn back, she remained steadfast and continued to follow him. Impressed by her unwavering devotion and determination, Yamraj offered Savitri three boons, excluding her husband's life. For the first, she asked for her blind father-in-law's vision to be restored; second, for the return of his lost kingdom; and third, the blessing of becoming a mother to 100 sons. Yamraj granted all three wishes, but Savitri continued to follow him. When Yamraj questioned her persistence, she cleverly pointed out that she couldn't have 100 sons without her husband. Moved by her intelligence and devotion, Yamraj finally relented and restored Satyavaan's life. Vat Savitri is one of the most revered Hindu festivals, observed with deep devotion by married Hindu women. On this sacred day, they worship the banyan tree, praying for their husbands' health, longevity, and prosperity. The day is marked by a strict fast and the recitation of the legendary tale of Savitri and Satyavaan, symbolising unwavering love and dedication. Vat Savitri Vrat is observed on two significant lunar phases, Amavasya Tithi and Purnima Tithi. Women in Maharashtra traditionally observe the fast on Purnima, while those in North India follow it on Amavasya. In Hinduism, the banyan tree holds immense spiritual significance, as it is believed to be the abode of the holy trinity, Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Shiva. Regarded as immortal and ever-giving, the tree is seen as a symbol of longevity and wish fulfilment. Women tie sacred threads around the tree, circle it, and offer prayers, believing that its blessings bring stability and happiness to their married life. Along with worshipping the tree, they also pray to Goddess Savitri, seeking her blessings for strength, resilience, and a blissful marital life.
Time of India
25-05-2025
- General
- Time of India
Vat Savitri 2025: Check date, time, puja rituals, significance and other details
Vat Savitri holds significant religious importance in Hinduism and is primarily observed by married Hindu women. On this auspicious day, women observe a fast and offer prayers to the banyan tree, seeking good health and long life for their husbands. In North India, the festival is celebrated on the Amavasya tithi of the Jyeshtha month, while in Maharashtra, it is observed on the Purnima tithi. In 2025, Vat Savitri Vrat will be observed on May 26. Vat Savitri 2025: Here is date and time Amavasya Tithi Begins - May 26, 2025 - 12:11 PM Amavasya Tithi Ends - May 27, 2025 - 08:31 AM Vat Savitri Vrat 2025: Check Significance Vat Savitri is one of the most significant festivals observed by married Hindu women. On this auspicious day, they worship the sacred banyan tree, praying for the health, well-being, and longevity of their husbands. As part of the rituals, women keep a strict fast and recite the legendary tale of Savitri and Satyavan. The Vat Savitri Vrat is observed on two tithis—Amavasya and Purnima. While women in North India generally observe the fast on Amavasya tithi, those in Maharashtra follow it on Purnima. In Hindu belief, the banyan tree holds deep spiritual significance as it is considered the abode of the Holy Trinity—Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Shiva. Regarded as immortal, the tree symbolizes longevity and is believed to fulfill the wishes of devotees. Women also offer prayers to Goddess Savitri on this day, seeking her blessings for a happy and prosperous married life. Vat Savitri 2025: What is the story? According to Hindu scriptures, Satyavaan was destined to have a short life, yet he married a devoted young woman named Savitri. One day, while Satyavaan was working in the forest, Yamraj—the god of death—came to claim his life. Upon discovering her husband lifeless, Savitri encountered Yamraj and began to follow him, pleading for her husband's life. Despite his refusal and repeated requests for her to turn back, Savitri remained steadfast and continued to follow him. Live Events Impressed by her determination and devotion, Yamraj eventually offered her three boons, excluding the return of her husband's life. For her first wish, Savitri asked for her father-in-law's eyesight to be restored; for the second, the return of his lost kingdom; and for the third, the blessing to be the mother of 100 sons. Yamraj granted all three wishes, but Savitri still followed him. Curious, Yamraj asked why she hadn't left despite receiving her boons. Savitri cleverly pointed out that she could not bear 100 sons without her husband's life being restored. Realizing her wisdom and unwavering devotion, Yamraj relented and brought Satyavaan back to life. Vat Savitri 2025: Puja Rituals 1. Begin the day with a holy bath. 2. Clean the entire house, especially the puja room. 3. Prepare special bhog offerings such as malpua, poode, and semolina halwa. 4. Dress in traditional attire like sarees or suits. 5. Adorn yourself with traditional jewelry. 6. Gather essential puja items including flowers, haldi, kumkum, a kalash filled with water, and *kaccha soot* (sacred white thread). 7. At the banyan tree, offer water, garlands, haldi, kumkum tilak, and akshat. Tie the sacred thread around the tree and circumambulate it seven times while praying. 8. Offer sweets and light an earthen lamp with desi ghee along with incense sticks. 9. Pray for your husband's health and seek blessings from Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Brahma. 10. Upon returning home, offer clothes and *dakshina* to your in-laws, touch their feet, and seek their blessings.
Time of India
25-05-2025
- General
- Time of India
Vat Savitri Vrat May 26, 2025: Date, Time, Puja Vidhi and Significance
In Hindu religion, Vat Savitri holds a great religious importance. This day is celebrated by married Hindu women. They observe fast on this auspicious day and offer prayers to the banyan tree for their husbands' health and longevity. In North India, the festival is celebrated on Amavasya tithi in the month of Jyeshtha and in Maharashtra, people celebrate this on Purnima Tithi. The celebration of Vat Savitri Vrat is taking place on May 26, 2025 . Vat Savitri 2025: Date and Time Amavasya Tithi Begins - May 26, 2025 - 12:11 PM Amavasya Tithi Ends - May 27, 2025 - 08:31 AM Vat Savitri Vrat 2025 : Significance Vat Savitri is one of the most prominent Hindu festivals which is celebrated by Hindu married women. They worship the banyan tree on this auspicious day for their husbands' health and well-being. They recite the tale of Savitri and Satyavaan and keep a rigorous fast. Amavasya Tithi and Purnima Tithi are the two occasions, when the Vat Savitri Vrat is observed. Hindu women in Maharashtra and North India follow the fast on Purnima Tithi and Amavasya Tithi, respectively. The Trinity God (Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Brahma) is believed to reside in the banyan tree, which is considered the most sacred and cherished tree in Hinduism. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch CFD với công nghệ và tốc độ tốt hơn IC Markets Đăng ký Undo This tree is considered as an immortal that bestow the devotees with desired wish fulfillments. According to legend, married ladies offer prayers to banyan trees since they are believed to have a long lifespan. Hindu women also offer prayers to the goddess Savitri as well in order to seek blessings. Vat Savitri 2025: Story According to Hindu scriptures, Satyavaan had a short life span but he got married to a young woman named Savitri. Once day, Satyavaan was working in the forest, when Yamraaj, the ruler of death, arrived to take his life. Savitri eventually discovered her husband dead and came upon Yamraj. She began to follow him and begged Yamraj to return her husband's life, but he refused. She was asked to return by Yamraj but she did not return and followed him. After then, Yamraj asked her for three blessings, she then first asked for her father-in-law's sight; second, her father-in-law's lost kingdom; and third, the opportunity to become a mother to 100 sons. Yamraj gave her all three blessings before departing. Savitri was still following him and seeing that, Yamraj said that he had granted all of her wishes, but why was she still following him? Savitri responded that she couldn't have 100 sons if he did not give her husband's life. Yamraj gave back Satyavaan's life after acknowledging his defeat. Vat Savitri 2025: Puja Rituals 1. Take a holy bath as soon as you wake up. 2. Clean the house and puja room also. 3. Prepare bhog prasad specially - Malpua, Poode, and semolina halwa. 4. They dress traditionally in suits and sarees. 5. Women use traditional jewelry to adorn themselves. 6. They are advised to take flowers, haldi, kumkum, kalash filled with water, and kaccha soot (white sacred raw thread). 7. Offer water, a garland, haldi and kumkum tilak, akshat, tie white thread, and walk around the banyan tree seven times to offer prayers. 8. Offer sweets and light an earthen lamp with desi ghee and incense sticks. 9. Pray for your husband's health and seek the blessings of Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Brahma. 10. After coming back to home, give offerings (clothes and dakshina) to your in laws by touching their feet and seek blessings.
