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Where is it?
It is in Eran in Madhya Pradesh.
How old is it?
Over 1500 years old. It belongs to the Gupta Dynasty.
What is it?
It is a temple for Vishnu’s Varaha Avatara. The temple itself is shaped as Yajna Varaha (Boar Avatara of Maha Vishnu.)
Who built it ?
King Toramana.
Why did he build it?
To celebrate his victory over the earth (BHUMI) spreading towards ocean on four directions like Varaha Avatar who lifted the mighty earth from the bottom of the ocean which was hidden there by the demons/Asuras.
What is it called in science?
It is part of Geological Science. Hindus taught Geology through the fits three avataras. Mastya/Fish, Kurma/Tortoise and Varaha/boar.
What does it say?
Billions of years ago the earth was full of water. Then came the water borne creatures. Then came the amphibians; then the land animals appeared. Human beings with hard work reclaimed the land and started agriculture, Balarama and Parasurama Rama went with axe throughout earth and taught the people farming. Darwin copied the Dasavatara and wrote his theory. It is called Theory of Evolution.
What is written in Sanskrit here?
It is one of the oldest inscriptions in Sanskrit and the oldest Boar avatara statue. The king bosats that he won many countries like Lord Vishnu. He traces his ancestors: father Harivishnu, , great grandfather Indra Vishnu, a brahmana saint. He praised his brother Dhanya Vishnu. They were Bhagawats (all the Guta kings were Parama Bhagawats. That is great worshippers of Lord Vishnu.). They traced their origin to Vedic Gods Maitra Varuni (Mitra- Varuna)
When was it built?
On the Dasami thithi off Falguna month (in Tamilized Sanskrit it is Panguni).
What is the scorpion Puzzzle?
The boar statue has the inscription on its throat. It has got garlands going around it. It has got 28 circles. Of the 28the circle it has got scorpion figure. Other 27 have got man and woman in half sitting posture. Scholars’ think these are 27 stars and the scorpion is Vrischika Rasi. Probably the temple was erected during Vrichchika Rasi time.
What is the conclusion?
Some half baked scholars wrote that the Greeks taught us Zodiac signs when Hindus were using only 27 stars. This inscription and Sangam Tamil book Paripatal explodes that theory. Of the 18 Sangam Books , which are 2200 years old, Paripatal, Purananuru and other books mention Zodiac Signs. Paripatal verse 11 used two Sanskrit words Panguni and Mithuna Rasi. Other books translated the symbols into Tamil like Aries/mesha=goat etc. Tamil verses used Mithuna, Makara , Budhan, all Sanskrit words. All the 12 Tamil months are in Sanskrit. This shows that 2200 years ago from Kanya Kumari to Kashmir people knew astronomy very well. Tamils had mentioned the Agastya star (Canopus) as well.
Compared with the above Gupta Inscription, we can conclude that zodiac signs such as Mithuna, Makara, Mesha , Vrischika are very familiar to Hindus. Strangely both Paripatal Tamil verse 11 and above Yajna Varaha inscription at Erakina village used the month Panguni . Only hitch is Panguni would not correspond with Vrischika Rasi. May be the King’s birth was Vrischika rasi or the temple work commenced in Vrishika Rasi . Malayali Hindus use only Zodiac signs as month names until today .
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Anamika story in Vana Parva of Mahabharata; Chapters 205 and 206
Anaamikaa= nameless woman i.e. Anonymous
English word Anonymous is derived from Sanskrit word Anamika. (Pronunciation- anaamikaa)
Yudhisthira put a question to sage Markandeya about the place of women in life.
“That a woman carries a child in her womb for ten months, and gives birth at the ripe time, what can be more awesome than that?
Often with danger to her life a woman bears a child gives birth in great pain and brings up her children with tender care- this seems to me to be even more difficult.
Still more difficult, indeed exceedingly difficult, is how woman look after a husband who is uncaring and cruel, from whom they receive only insulting behaviour, and yet, regardless, they live in the truth of their own dharma”.
Markandeya narrated the story of arrogant Brahmin Kaushika.
Kaushika was brahmin who mastered all scriptures and did severe penance. One day, sitting under a tree he was reciting Veda. A bird sitting on the same tree soiled his clothes. In great anger he looked at the bird and the bird instantly fell dead. Then he set out on his daily round of begging for food, what is called Biksha (Tamil word Pichchai is derived from it.)
He had arrived at a house and gave the customary call. Ane the woman answered from inside the house, ‘Please wait’.
The mistress of the house took some time and Kaushika became very angry. When she came out with food, he reproached her.
She apologised for the delay and told that her husband came just before he cam for food. She had been attending on her husband and hence the delay.
Kaushika raised his voice in ager and said,
“So, for you, your husband is has greater importance than a Brahmana. Even Gods bow their head to Brahmanas, what to say about the mortals. You arrogant woman. Don’t you know the power of Brahmanas? They are like fire. If they wish they can burn the whole earth.
Nameless woman/Anaamikaa, said to him,
“Don’t be angry, Sir! I meant no disrespect to you, but I am not that little bird that you reduced to ashes with your anger. What can your ngr do to me? It cannot touch me even remotely”
“The dharma I obtain from taking care of my husband is what I delight in. I put him in a place higher than even the Gods.
It is the kind of life that I live , ordinary, but in devotion to my husband , that brought me some powers too.
Just see that is how I have the foreknowledge of your burning with your anger that little bird. But, Sir, anger is the enemy that resides in man’s body.
This is in Tamil Veda Tirukkural too,
தெய்வம் தொழாஅள் கொழுநன் தொழுதெழுவாள்
பெய்யெனப் பெய்யும் மழை.- குறள் 55
Even rains fall at the command of the wife Who upon rising worships not God, but her husband- Tirukkural 55.
“Sir if you do not know what Dharma (rightful conduct) is, you should learn it from Dharmavyadha, a meat seller, by going to Mithila. He takes care of his parents. He is truthful and a man of self -control. Should I have said more than I should have, or something offensive, forgive me. Those who live in dharma know also that women are adandaniya, above punishment”
Kaushika said to the woman,
I am very pleased with you. My anger has vanished. Then he went to Mithila and met Dharmavyadha.
To be continued……………….
Similar story is told in Tamil about a Siddha saint called Konkanava. கொக்கென்று நினைத்தாயோ கொங்கணவா?
Hey You Konkanava, Did you think that I am like that bird heron/stork (you burnt a while ago)?
–subham—
Tags- power of woman, arrogant Brahmin, Kaushika, Mahabharata, Vana parva, husband is god, woman is unpunishable.கொக்கென்று நினைத்தாயோ, கொங்கணவா
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Festivals:
· Onam – September 5
· Chandra grahana-lunar eclipse -7
· Pitru Paksha Shradh Begins – September 8
· Bharatiyar Memorial Day 11
· Mahalaya Amavasyai – September 21
· Navratri Begins – September 22
· Durga Ashtami – September 30
Pitru Paksha is a 16-day period dedicated to honouring ancestors.
Ekadasi fasting days- 3,17; Auspicious day -4;
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Quotes are taken from website; for more quotations please go to the website.
September 1 Monday
Beauty is spoiled by an immoral nature; noble birth by bad conduct; learning, without being perfected and wealth by not being properly utilised.
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September 2 Tuesday
Low class men desire wealth; middle class men both wealth and respect; but the noble, honour only; hence honour is the noble man’s true wealth.
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September 3 Wednesday
Those base men who speak of the secret faults of others destroy themselves like serpents that stray onto anthills.
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September 4 Thursday
The power of a king lies in his mighty arms;that of a brahmana in his spiritual knowledge; and that of a woman in her beauty youth and sweet words.
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September 5 Friday
Swans live wherever there is water, and leave the place when water dries up; let not a man act so — and comes and goes as he pleases.
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September 6 Saturday
Accumulated wealth is saved by spending just as incoming fresh water is saved by letting out stagnant water.
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September 7 Sunday
He who has wealth has friends and relations; he alone survives and is respected as a man.
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September 8 Monday
She is a true wife who is clean (suci), expert, chaste, pleasing to the husband, and truthful.
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September 9 Tuesday
When one is consumed by the sorrows of life, three things give him relief: offspring, a wife, and the company of the Lord’s devotees.
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September 10 Wednesday
Learning is like a cow of desire. It, like her, yields in all seasons. Like a mother, it feeds you on your journey. Therefore learning is a hidden treasure.
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September 11 Thursday
As long as your body is healthy and under control and death is distant, try to save your soul; when death is imminent what can you do?
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September 12 Friday
He who runs away from a fearful calamity, a foreign invasion, a terrible famine, and the companionship of wicked men is safe.
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September 13 Saturday
Do not keep company with a fool for as we can see he is a two-legged beast.Like an unseen thorn he pierces the heart with his sharp words.
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September 14 Sunday
At the time of the pralaya (universal destruction)the oceans are to exceed their limits and seek to change, but a saintly man never changes.
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September 15 Monday
He who befriends a man whose conduct is vicious, whose vision impure, and who is notoriously crooked, is rapidly ruined.
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September 16 Tuesday
Avoid him who talks sweetly before you but tries to ruin you behind your back, for he is like a pitcher of poison with milk on top.
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September 17 Wednesday
Even if a snake is not poisonous, it should pretend to be venomous.
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September 18 Thursday
Never make friends with people who are above or below you in status. Such friendships will never give you any happiness.
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September 19 Friday
As soon as the fear approaches near, attack and destroy it.
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September 20 Saturday
The earth is supported by the power of truth; it is the power of truth that makes the sun shine and the winds blow; indeed all things rest upon truth.
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September 21 Sunday
The world’s biggest power is the youth and beauty of a woman.
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September 22 Monday
Purity of speech, of the mind, of the senses, and the of a compassionate heart are needed by one who desires to rise to the divine platform.
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September 23 Tuesday
When there are many enemies, treaty should be entered into with one.
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September 24 Wednesday
A thing may be dreaded as long as it has not overtaken you, but once it has come upon you, try to get rid of it without hesitation.
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September 25 Thursday
The learned are envied by the foolish; rich men by the poor; chaste women by adulteresses; and beautiful ladies by ugly ones.
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September 26 Friday
Learning is a friend on the journey; a wife in the house; medicine in sickness; and religious merit is the only friend after death.
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September 27 Saturday
The poor wish for wealth; animals for the faculty of speech; men wish for heaven; and godly persons for liberation.
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September 28 Sunday
By means of hearing one understands dharma, malignity vanishes, knowledge is acquired, and liberation from material bondage is gained.
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September 29 Monday
Time perfects all living beings as well as kills them; it alone is awake when all others are asleep. Time is insurmountable.
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September 30 Tuesday
He who gives up shyness in monetary dealings, in acquiring knowledge, in eating and in business, becomes happy.
–Subham-
Tags-Sayings , Arthasastra , Chanakya, Kautilya, Quotations, September 2025, Calendar
PM Modi presented Daruma Doll in Japan: Read what is the doll, its significance in Japanese culture, and its connection to India through Bodhidharma
The Indian connection to the Daruma Doll lies in its very origin, the figure of Bodhidharma, the Zen Buddhist monk from India.
During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ongoing visit to Japan, he was gifted a Daruma Doll, a symbolic gift deeply rooted in Japanese culture and history. The doll was presented to him by Rev Seishi Hirose, the Chief Priest of the Shorinzan Daruma-ji Temple in Takasaki. The Daruma Doll, a simple looking round figurine, carries profound meaning in Japan and also has a unique connection to India.
The Daruma Doll, also known as “Dharma Doll,” represents Bodhidharma, the Indian Buddhist monk who travelled to China around the 5th or 6th century CE and founded the Zen school of Buddhism. Bodhidharma is known in Japan as Daruma Daishi. Over centuries, Bodhidharma became an iconic figure in East Asia, associated with meditation, resilience, and determination. In Japan, his story inspired the creation of the Daruma Doll, which embodies the spirit of never giving up.
The handmade doll itself is usually round, hollow, and weighted at the bottom with a round base so that it always returns to an upright position even if pushed over. This feature symbolizes the Japanese proverb “Nanakorobi yaoki” (fall down seven times, get up eight), a reminder of perseverance and bouncing back from setbacks.
Daruma Dolls are made of paper mache, and are traditionally coloured red. The letter Fukuiri is written at the bottom, which means here is happiness in it. The eyebrows represent a crane and the beard represents a turtle’s tail. There is a Japanese saying that cranes live 1000 years and turtles live 10000 years, and they are regularly used as symbols of celebration.
They are known as a symbol of perseverance and good luck, and are often used to represent setting and achieving goals. Traditionally, the doll has blank eyes. When someone sets a goal, they paint one eye black, and once the goal is achieved, they fill in the other eye, completing the doll’s vision and marking the fulfilment of determination.
At the end of the year, all the Daruma dolls are brought back to the temple they were purchased from. The returned dolls are burned in a traditional burning ceremony, called the daruma kuyō. This ceremony is generally held right after New Year’s Day. People then buy new Daruma dolls at the temple to be used in the new year.
Daruma dolls at a shop
The Shorinzan Daruma-ji Temple in Takasaki, where the doll originated, is the most famous centre of Daruma-making in Japan. The temple holds annual fairs where people buy new dolls, set fresh goals for the year, and return old dolls for ceremonial burning, symbolizing closure and renewal.
While the dolls are traditionally bought at the start of the new year and returned at the end of the year, they are available for purchase throughout the year. Moreover, people may keep them, instead of returning to a temple for ceremonial burning. Companies and political parties in Japan also buy the dolls to achieve desired goals.
Ceremonial burning of lucky Daruma Dolla
The Indian connection to the Daruma Doll lies in its very origin, the figure of Bodhidharma. Bodhidharma was a monk from southern India, often linked with the Kancheepuram region. His journey across Asia not only shaped the practice of Zen Buddhism but also influenced martial traditions like Shaolin Kung Fu in China.
As per legend, Bodhidharma lost his limbs by performing the Zen meditation Zazen for nine years. To represent this, Daruma dolls were made without limbs.
In Japan, his austere life of meditation and endurance became the foundation of the Daruma legend. Thus, while the doll is a quintessentially Japanese cultural object, its spiritual roots trace back to India.
For India, receiving the Daruma Doll during Modi’s visit is more than a ceremonial gesture. It symbolizes the deep cultural bonds shared between India and Japan through the legacy of Buddhism
In essence, the Daruma Doll is far more than a decorative artifact or a religious symbol. It is a centuries-old reminder of how Indian philosophy travelled abroad, adapted into new traditions, and continues to inspire millions with its message of unwavering determination.OPINDIA REPORT.
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Russians asked men to beat wives two times a day (see yesterday’s post); Ukrainians ask men to beat pretty wives three times a day.
One Thousand Proverbs on Woman, Wife and Daughter –20
Why do I publish 1000 proverbs on women collected from different cultures? This is to teach a lesson to the Anti Manu Smrti idiots in the universities. Millions of women were burnt alive during the witch hunting by Christians. But the world knows only one Joan of Arc. In the whole wide world, greatest Tamil poet Bharati is the only one who never criticised women but praised them sky-high. Next comes Manu Smriti.
Hence men who seek (their own) welfare, should always honour women on holidays and festivals with (gifts of) ornaments, clothes, and (dainty) food.—(59)
(Manu also said women’s all body parts are always pure)
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381.A woman is no witness against her husband.
382. Woman most often complains without any reason, lies deliberately, weeps visibly and laughs secretly.
383. There is nothing sincere in the weeping of a woman, or the limping of a dog.
384. Beat a woman with a hammer and you will make gold.
385. The wise man only sees in woman’s tears water in the eye.
386. Everyman is a woman’s son.
387. Woman’s span of life is forty years.
388. Woman’s journey is from the oven to the threshold.
389. Do what you like with women and cattle.
390. When hens cackle eggs are laid; when women cackle none are there.
—Russian proverbs
391. Trust not the laughing woman and the weeping man.
392. If a woman is cold, it is her husband’s fault.
393. Mistrust the woman who speaks of her virtue.
394. Wives, razors and hoses should never be lent
395. Do not praise your wife before seven years.
396. If a husband does not beat his pretty wife three times a day, she trains her feet to jump over the house.
397. If a man is too old, it is his wife’s fault
–Ukrainian proverbs
398. It is lesser sin to burn a church than to speak evil of a girl.
399. Speak good of a bad girl and what you like of a good one.
400. When God wants to punish a man, He gives him an only daughter for his wife.
—Serbian Proverbs
–subham—
To be continued…………………………………..
Tags- One Thousand Proverbs, on Woman, Wife and Daughter, part 20
Sheldon Pollock has translated the Sanskrit poem into English The inscription shows Kalidasa’s influence.
This epigraph and earlier Kumara Gupta’s Sanskrit epigraphs clearly show Kalidasa’s influence over a vast area from Madhya Pradesh to Nepal. More over irt shows that Kalidasa must have lived several centuries before these poems. Tha proved Art Historian Sivaramamurti’s view that Kalidasa lived before Gupta period because we could see his influence in Gupta sculptures.
The important points to be noted here are similes used by the poet. Kalidasa used similes mostly in good auspicious context. Here similes are not missed even it is about king’s death and queen’s grief.
Around the same time, we have over 1000 Sanskrit inscriptions from Central Asia to Southeast Asia. We know that Sanskrit is spoken or understood over a vast area. Moreover, Vedic sacrifices and Vedic Gods are also mentioned in those inscriptions.
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The Cangu Narayan Pillar Inscription is a significant ancient inscription found in Nepal, primarily documenting the reign of King Mānadeva and his lineage. It is located at the Cangu Narayan Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The inscription is divided into three sections, each etched on a different side of the pillar. These sections provide insights into the political, social, and religious landscape of the Licchavi period in Nepal.
Key aspects of the inscription:
King Mānadeva’s Reign:
The inscription details King Mānavanadeva’s lineage, his mother Queen Rājyavatī, and his accomplishments.
Social and Religious Context:
It sheds light on the social structure, religious beliefs, and practices of the time, including references to deities like Vishnu (Hari), Lakshmi, and the concept of sati (widow immolation).
Political Events:
The inscription also records military campaigns and territorial conquests during Mānadeva’s reign, particularly his western expedition.
Licchavi Dynasty:
The inscription provides valuable evidence about the Licchavi dynasty, which played a crucial role in Nepali history.
Specific details from the inscription sections:
East Side:
Describes King Vṛṣadeva, his virtues, and his rule, highlighting his prowess and the well-behaved nature of his sons.
North Side:
Focuses on Queen Rājyavatī, her grief over her husband’s death, and her son Mānadeva’s ascension to the throne.
West Side:
Narrates Mānadeva’s military expedition to the western lands, his victory over a rebellious feudatory, and his generosity towards Brahmins.
The inscription is a crucial historical document for understanding the Licchavi period in Nepal, offering valuable information about the political, social, and religious landscape of the time.
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PART 74
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Pictures of 2500 Indian Stamps continued……………………
I have got 25,000 stamps with beautiful designs.
London Swaminathan has been collecting stamps for 65 years continuously.
In my London, stamp dealers would not touch Indian stamps because they are very dirty; but I would not blame India for it. If u collect stamps in India, it would be spoiled quickly because of the weather conditions. The same stamps can be preserved better in Britain because it is a cold place. But producing bad designed stamps is inexcusable.
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VERY BAD STAMPS ON MAHABHARATA, FASHION.
THESE MINI SHEETS SHOW PEOPLE IN THE INDIAN POSTAL DEPARTMENT DON’T KNOW HISTORY, RELIGION, MAHABHARATA OR STAMP COLLECTING.
MAHABAHARATA STAMPS WOULD NOT BE UNDERSTOOD BY ANYONE BECAUSE EACH STAMP DON’T SAY WHAT IT IS.
MY MADURAI SETUPATI HIGH SCHIOOL TEACHER PSK USED TO CRITICISE BAD ,ILEGIBLE, DIRTY WRITING AS BEGGAR’S VOMIT.
MAHABHARATA STAMPS BELONG TO THAT CATEGORY.
THEY LOOK LIKE BEGGAR’S VOMIT.
FAHION STAMPS HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH INDIAN CULTURE. THE MINI SHEET iS SO BIG IT WOULD NOT FIT INTO ANY STAMP ALBUM IN THE WORLD. SOME MAD MAN MIGHT HAVE DESIGNED IT WHEN HE IS DRUNK.
IT SHOWS THE PEOPLE IN THE P & T HAVE NO KNOWLEDGE OF STAMP COLLECTING.
PUNISH THEM; TELL THE WORLD HOW MUCH YOU SPENT TO DESIGN THESE STAMPS.
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DO YOU COLLECT INDIAN STAMPS?
I HAVE GOT 100 MINI SHEETS.
I HAVE GOT SPARE STAMPS .
–subham—
Tags- Indian stamps, MINI STAMPS, 25,000, PART 74, MAHABHARATA, VERY BAD STAMPS, FASHION, PERFUME
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Varaha Avatara in Udayagiri Caves, Gupta Period.
Kings of Gupta dynasty were great Hindus. Their rule is considered the Golden period of India. According to Chinese pilgrim and others, people slept leaving their house doors open. No theft, no robbery was reported; it was Rama Rajya. The kings called themselves Parama Bhagavatas, i.e. great followers of Lord Vishnu. But they donated liberally to all faiths. Their gold coins are in all museums of the world. British museum has displayed it at the entrance of the coin section.
Gupta inscriptions frequently depict and refer to various Hindu deities, particularly Vishnu and Lakshmi, alongside other gods and goddesses. The Gupta period saw a flourishing of Hindu art and iconography, solidifying the forms of many deities that are still recognized today. Vishnu is prominently featured, with inscriptions often associating Gupta rulers with him and emphasizing their role as his representatives on Earth.
Here’s a more detailed look:
• Vishnu:
Gupta rulers often identified themselves with Vishnu. For example, an inscription from Govindnagar, Mathura, refers to a pillar dedicated to Vishnu. Vishnu’s boar avatar, Varaha, is also depicted in the Udayagiri caves, showcasing his importance.
• Lakshmi:
The goddess Lakshmi, often associated with wealth and prosperity, is also frequently depicted in Gupta art and inscriptions. She is sometimes shown as Rajya-Lakshmi, associated with kingship and the coronation ritual, highlighting her role in legitimizing the ruler’s authority.
• Other Deities:
Besides Vishnu and Lakshmi, other deities found in Gupta inscriptions and art include:
• Karttikeya (Skanda Kumara, Mahasena): The god of war, often depicted with a peacock.
• Shiva: Depicted with his mount, Nandi, and associated with the Udayagiri caves.
• Brahma: The creator god, also found in the Udayagiri caves.
• Adityas, Agni, Vayu, Vasus, Rudras, Rishis: Various deities and sages from the Vedic tradition are also represented.
In the Gupta epigraphs, the exploits of a king equalled to those of Indra . it is seen in inscriptions of Samudra Gupta and Mathura stone inscription of Chandra Gupta. Tamils also called the king, Indra. Tolkappiam named Indra as King, Venthan in Tamil.
In the Kusana and Gupta sculptures, Varuna is represented as riding a crocodile and bearing a noose, pasa, of chastisement. He is also mentioned in the Mathura stone inscription. The Mathura pillar inscription of Chandragupta II is an important historical document from the Gupta period in ancient India. It records the installation of two Shiva Lingas by Udita Acharya in the “year 61 following the era of the Guptas”. This corresponds to approximately 380 CE, though some scholars like Harry Falk suggest a date of 388 CE. The inscription is found on a pillar in Mathura and is also known as the Lakulisa Mathura Pillar Inscription.
Neither Kalidasa nor Sangam Tamil poets mentioned the world Linga. But both have praised Linga shaped Kaliash. This shows Kalidasa lived before Sangam or Gupta age.
Kalidasa refers to the deity Surya having seven horses, all green in colour harnessed to his chariot—haridasva-Raghu 3-22.
Oldest Post- Vedic reference to Vishnu is in Panini’s Ashtadhyayi 4-3-98
An ambassador of the Indo Greek king Antialklidas named Heliodorus called himself bhagavata and erected a Garuda pillar in Besnagar in second century BCE.
Imperial Guptas called themselves Parama Bhagavatas according to Gadhwa stone inscription of Chandra Gupta II. Gupta coins also had the title paramabhagavatas.
This also shows Kalidasa lived long before the Guptas. A court poet always follows the state religion. But Kalidasa was associated with Vikramaditya of first century BCE and he praised Shiva sky high as Jagadguru in Kumarasambhavam and Parents of the Earth in Raghuvamsa.
A four armed Vishnu figure carved on a panel at Udayagiri is dated in the Gupta era 82, i.e. 400 CE.
Allahabad pillar inscription of Samudra Gupta mentioned Vishnugopa of Kanchi
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Vishnu in Delhi Iron Pillar Inscription
The king in Delhi Iron Pillar is now generally identified with the Gupta King Chandragupta II. This identification is based on several points:
The script and the poetic style of the inscription, which point to a date in the late fourth or early fifth century CE: the Gupta period.
The inscription describes the king as a devotee of the God Vishnu, and records the erection of a dhvaja (“standard”, or pillar) of Vishnu, on a hill called Viṣṇupada (“hill of the footprint of Viṣṇu”). Other Gupta inscriptions also describe Chandragupta II as a Bhagavata (devotee of Vishnu). The names of the places mentioned in the inscription are also characteristic of the Gupta Era. For example, Dakṣiṇa Jalanidhi (the Indian Ocean) and Vaṅga (the Bengal region).
The short name ‘Candra’ is inscribed on the archer-type gold coins of Chandragupta II, while his full name and titles appear in a separate, circular legend on the coin.
A royal seal of Chandragupta’s wife Dhruvadevi contains the phrase Śrī Viṣṇupada-svāmī Nārāyaṇa (“Nārāyaṇa, the lord of the illustrious Viṣṇupada”).
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Surya -Sun god
Kumara Gupta’s Mandasor stone inscription and Bandhuvarma mentioned the repairs to a sun temple.
Kalidasa mentioned Surya with the word Savita in Rtu Samhara. God Surya is in the Rig Veda where ten hymns are addressed to him . Adi Sankara made it as one of the six faiths (shan matha) of Hindus. It is called Sauram. Surya became Solar in European languages is a well-known fact.
The tradition preserved in the Bhavishya Purana that the first sun temple was built in Sindhu on the Chandrabhaga by Samba, , son of Krishna by Jambavati . she brought Maga priests from Sakadvipa. Varahamihira also mentioned that Maga- Sakadvipa Brahmanas should be appointed as priests in sun temples- Brhat Samhita 60-19.
Even today Sun cult is followed by millions of Brahmins in their daily ritual of Sandhyavandana and Surya Namaskar . And surya is associated with lord Vishnu in the Vedas.
Kalidasa refers to a temple containing an image of the Sun deity and mentions people returning from that shrine, at the feet of which, obviously the feet of the image, –paadamuulam—their attendance was required-Vik 5-4
A sun temple standing in Multan on the bank of the Chandrahaga river—chenab—was seen by Chinese pilgrim Huen Tsang. The same temple which was seen by Alberuni four hundred years later was destroyed by Aurangzeb in the 17th century. The temple built by Samba, Krishna’s son must have existed for thousands of years in Multan.
Gupta Kings and their Dates:
Gupta
(c. 240 – c. 280)
Ghatotkacha
(c. 280–319)
Chandragupta I
(c. 319–335)
Kacha
(c. 335)
Samudragupta
(c. 335–375)
(Ramagupta)
(c. 375)
Chandragupta II
(380–415)
Kumaragupta I
(415–455)
Skandagupta
(455–467)
Purugupta
(467–473)
Kumaragupta II
(473–476)
Budhagupta
(476–495)
Narasimhagupta
(495–530)
(Bhanugupta)
(c. 510)
Vainyagupta
(c. 507)
Kumaragupta III
(c. 530 – c. 540)
Vishnugupta
(540–550)
The Sanchi inscription of Chandragupta II is an epigraphic record documenting a donation to the Buddhist establishment at Sanchi in the reign of king Chandragupta II (circa CE 375–415). It is dated year 93 in the Gupta era.
Art historian C Sivaramamurty in his book EPIGRAPHICAL ECHOS OF KALIDASA gives a long list of inscriptions where influence of Kalidasa is very evident. He placed Kalidasa before the Gupta era, saying literature comes first and then paintings and sculptures follow it. Sangam Age poets also proved it correct by using 200++ imageries of Kalidasa in their poems.
–subham—
Tags- Gupta inscriptions, Hindu Gods, Delhi Iron Pillar, Allahabad, Mandasor, Mathura
The new Social Science books for Classes 6 to 8 are truly a delight. The Class 8 book is still not available on their site, but I have read Class 6 and 7 books and really loved them.
Here are some key takeaways
Read and enjoy!
Name of Bharat and Jambu Dweep
Books talk about ancient history of India from Rig Veda and Sapta Sindhu name
Chapter also gives reference of Vishnu Puran for the name Bharat.
Books talk about name of different parts of India came from Mahabharata and ancient history of India.
This part I actually didnt like which talks about origin of Indian civilization from Indus valley civilization 4000 years ago. I think Indian civilization is way older but right now its only established fact and we have to go by facts.
Veda
Book talks about Veda and Vedic Gods. Veda were composed 7000 years to 4000 years ago.
Upanishads
Books also talk about Upanishads and various stories mentioned in Upanishads.
There is a dedicated chapter related to cultural roots of India which talks about Hindu, Bodh and Jain culture.
There’s no mention of LGBTQ or the typical “my life, my rules” narrative. Instead, the book beautifully emphasizes the importance of the family system, even dedicating a separate chapter to it. Reading this chapter was truly a treat, especially with the lovely family photographs included.
What a subtle and thoughtful way to connect ancient Indian heritage with democracy- the chapter on democracy even begins with a quote from the Mahabharata.
Chapter of cities and states start from quote of The great Chanakya and not only in beginning but on many places the quotes of Chanakya and ancient Indian thinkers were given.
No oppressor oppressed Marxist propaganda
There is a chapter on Jati and Varna system and it beautifully talks about how caste system was evolved by paternal profession and how all these groups complimented each other and lived in harmony.
There are three dedicated chapters that talk about Indian Kings ruled from -300 BC to 1000 AD.
They cover almost all great Indian Kings who were always neglected in previous books.
This is truly the best chapter I found.
It beautifully explains the sacredness of the Indian land, emphasizing that India is not just a piece of land but a holy and revered place.
This chapter talks about sacred Teertha of India scattered all over in different parts of India.
This chapter also talks in detail about sacred Kumbha mela.
This chapter talks about how rivers and mountain of India are not just river and mountains, they are sacred places and origin of our culture.
Through out the chapter they presented beautiful shloka from Purans.
My followers know that I’ve always been a critic of the Modi govt when it comes to education, but I must admit, this change feels refreshing and beautiful. So far, I’ve read only Class 6 and 7 books, and I’m eagerly waiting for the Class 8 book, which covers the so-called “Dark Age” of India (the Mughal period).
As I get that book, I will share my review. I congratulate @EduMinOfIndia and @dpradhanbjp for these changes and request that this correction should not stop here and keep going.
(This article has been compiled from the tweet thread posted by @Starboy2079 on July 17, 2025, with minor edits to improve readability and conform to HinduPost style guide)
Pictures are taken from various sources for spreading knowledge.
this is a non- commercial blog. Thanks for your great pictures.
tamilandvedas.com, swamiindology.blogspot.com
OLDEST HISTORIAN IN THE WORLD; RIG VEDA REVEALS-1 (Post No.9650)
EVERYONE MUST READ AT LEAST ONE HYMN IN THE RIG VEDA. IT IS IN THE FIRST MANDALA, HYMN 112. IT LISTS ALL THE MIRACLES THAT HAPPENED BEFORE 3150 BCE AND ALL THE HISTORICAL ANECDOTES. SO THE POET-SEER KUTSA ANGIRAS IS THE OLDEST HISTORIAN .NEITHER HERODOTUS NOR BERORUS NOR KALHANA OF RAJA TARANGINI COULD CLAIM THIS TITLE.
IT HAS NOT ONLY HISTORICAL DETAILS BUT ALSO SCIENTIFIC DETAILS SUCH AS THE ECLIPSE AND EARTH QUAKES!
***
RIGVEDA 1-112- 1 TO 25
HYMN 1-112 HAS 25 MANTRAS OR STANZAS, ONE OF THE LONGEST IN THIS MANDALA (BOOK)
Rishi /Kavi/Seer/Poet Kutsa Angirasa address this hymn to the oldest Twins in the world ‘Asvini Devas’.
Mantra 1 (RV.1-112-1)
Kutsa Angiras says, let me first salute Heaven and Earth and Agni/fire god.
O Asvins, come here ! you helped us to get the spoil in the battle with your war cry .
Mantra 2 , RV.1-112-2
O Asvins, come here!
You help our thoughts to think about more holy acts.
Here is a beautiful line – the hymns are described as ‘AN ELOQUENT CAR’. That is like carpenters make a beautiful chariot by cutting and joining the wooden pieces and decorating it with pearls and gems so do we do construct poems. Tamils also use SOL THER=WORD CHARIOT and SOL THATCHAN= WORD CARPENTER.
Please note the Tamil words ‘thachchan’ and ‘ther’ are Sanskrit words.
Thaksha gives birth to 100s of English words such technology, technical, archi TECT, tactics, tect etc.
‘Ther’ is RATHA inverted, reversed . it is called mirror image of ‘rathe’
Mantra 3
O Asvins, come here.
You, HEROES made the barren cow yield milk.
The word hero is used 1000s of times in the Rig Veda. They not only called the gods heroes, but also prayed for heroic children in 100s of verses.
Here the barren cow/pasu is interpreted as rishi Sayu’s cow.
So we hear one ancient anecdote and even milk is interpreted as Soma rasa/juice.
So we see the first miracle of Asvins, world’s first TWINS here.
Mantra 4
Here Fire God Agni is described as ‘Two Mothered’.
Ancient seers rubbed two sticks and made fire – says the interpreter.
We get so many words like this which shows Vedic Hindus were highly cultured, imaginative, poetic, eloquent and literate.
According to Sayana, the most often quoted commentator, here Wind god is described as Wanderer and Fire God as his child.
Veda is full of symbolism. Vedic Hindus were highly imaginative. They don’t say anything straight. They themselves sing in one of the hymns GODS LOVE MYSTERIOUS EXPRESSIONS. They are NOT nomadic as described by the 15 Western jokers/translators.
Here comes one word ‘triple lore’. Commentators believe that a saint come poet Kakshivan became a master of 3 things. Western commentator and translator R T Griffith says the ‘passage meaning is uncertain’. Words like ‘uncertain, obscure, not clear, inserted, interpolated, incorrect’ are found throughout Griffith’s Rig Vedic translation. He quotes at least 20 jokers / comedians/ translators of the West; we get beautiful jokes- one person describes a word as a worm, another a devil and third person it may be a deity.
Number symbolism came to Tamil during the period of Siddha poetry. But in the R V ., we see it from the very beginning to the end.
Mantra 5
‘Pushed into well, fallen into well’ – are phrases used by Vedic seers.
Rebha and Vandana are said to have been thrown into wells by the Asuras and Kanva also was thrown into well. Asvins rescued them all. In other passages we come across TRITA thrown into well. Westerners could not understand this phrase. So they gave this phrase a racial tone. One of the jokers, WILSON, say that the ‘some of the first teachers of Hinduism tried to civilise people and they pushed them into wells. We see lot of jokes like this throughout Vedic translation.
My comments
‘Well’ is ignorance; Asvins helping some people to ‘see light’ is attaining wisdom. Later literature gives stories around this phrase.
But Asvins miracle list includes this as well.
SEA ADVENTURE
Mantra 6
This stanza contains the sea adventure, sea miracle which is quoted very often. We come across huge ships with different descriptions.
There are four anecdotes reported here. And most important of them is Asvins saving Bhujyu. He was son of Tugra and was let in the middle of the sea. At last, Asvins recued them.
This shows Vedic Hindus were great sea farers. Even before Columbus , Magellan and Captain Cook, they travelled to far off islands. It is reported in other stanzas and Ashtadhyayi of Panini and Kalidasa.
In this sixth stanza we come across Antaka, Karkandhu, Vayya who were all rescued by Asvins
Antaka was rescued by Asvins from a lake.
Vayya is referred to in RV 2-13; 4-19-6
MY COMMENTS
‘YYA’, ‘AYYA’ ending in several names show Tamil connection or influence.
Madhavayya, Ayyachchaami, Rajayya are common names
So in mantra 6, we come across four personalities with 4 miracles.
Mantra 7
Seventh mantra talks about four more people-
Asvin helped Sucanti ,Atri ,Purukutsa and Prsnigu .
Asvins gave Sucanti wealth and home.
Guarded Purukutsa and Prsnigu.
About Prsnigu and Sucanti nothing more is related.
Atri is referred to in 1-45-3 and 1-51-3 where in it is said he was thrown into a fiery pit by the Asuras .
Asuras throwing seers and poets into a well or a lake or a fire pit is strange. Asuras were described as cannibals in one hymn in the same Mandala. This shows they were barbarians. If we don’t take it literally it may mean different things.
But we have another historic anecdotes to compare it.
One of the greatest Saivite saints Appar alias Tirunavukkarasu was also thrown into fire pit by the greatest of the Pallava Kings Mahendra Varman at the instigation of bad Jains. But Appar enjoyed the burning lime kiln as a ‘cool pond in summer’ due to Lord Shiva’s grace. This is one of the miracles in the life of Appar. So it is possible that Atri also escaped from such a fiery ordeal .
Purukutsa is referred to in RV 1-63-7.
Indra demolished seven castles in a war to gain victory for Purukutsa. So it is a historical incident.
Foreigners wrote wrong history of India and listed kings only from Buddha period- Sixth Century BCE. According them , India had NO kings from 2500 BCE, beginning of the Indus- Sarasvati Civilization. When they have listed all the kings of Egyptian, Babylonian and Mayan Kings, they rejected 140 kings names in the Puranas. Even when I got M.A.in history from Madurai Kamaraj University in 1977 , I had to write that false history! What a shame!
Rig Veda lists lot of personalities. Most of them were kings or Priest Kings. We must include those kings and 140 generations of Solar Dynasty. Apart from this , there is Lunar dynasty as well.
About two of the above four names in the seventh mantra we do not know anything else.
There are Ten Mandalas/Books in the Rig Veda with over 1000 hymns and in those we have over 10,000 mantras!
I am dealing with only one hymn with 25 mantras.
(All the Rig Vedic verses are available free of cost in the websites; both in English and Sanskrit; I will give the full verse at the end of this essay)
Tamil and Vedas 
