Devi Mandir

Temple of Divine Mother

Samasti Chandi Tantra Bijamantratmaka

The Samasti Chandi Tantra Bijamantratmaka series of books contain all of the mantras of the Chandi Pathah and the Tantra Bijamantratmaka Guhyabija Namavali. It is our privilege to make these chanting books available to you free of charge, with only one request — that you do not turn our love and devotion which inspired these […]

Swami Nighantu

This is a glossary of the Sanskrit alphabet for the purpose of introducing the meanings of each letter. This glossary is based on Swamiji’s understanding of the Bija Nighantu, from the Dictionaries of the Tantra Sastras, and from Panini’s Grammar, as well as the many years of discussing these issues with Gurus, sadhus, priests, pandits, […]

Pongal Recipe (Shiva Rice)

This is a recipe for pongal from Shree Maa. She calls it “Shiva Rice” and it is a perfect dish to prepare on Monday, Shiva’s day.

 

Pitta Recipe

Pitta is a dessert preparation of thin pancakes with a sweet coconut filling. Shree Maa makes these delightful delicacies for special pujas and festivals, and they are beloved of deities and devotees alike!

 

Offerings for Shivaratri Pujas

Maha Shivaratri is the most auspicious and exciting nights of the year for devotees of Lord Shiva! Learn about the prasad offerings made on this special evening, as well as the traditional method of offering abhishek throughout the night.
 

Hanuman Puja

Every Saturday evening, Hanumān Pūjā is performed at the Devi Mandir using Swamiji’s Hanumān Pūjā book.  The worship is conducted using red flowers, bananas, ladoos, maalpoa, and other sweets that are offered to Lord Hanumān, the embodiment of Pure Devotion. In the evening, following the pūjā, there is beautiful kirtan, and Shree Maa anoints the forehead […]

Milk Sweets

Indian milk sweets make the perfect offering for Lord Vishnu, particularly in his form as Sri Krishna. Learn about these sugary confections, which devotees lovingly offer during puja at the Devi Mandir.
 

Rama Navami

Rama Navami (Sanskrit: राम नवमी, rāma navamī) celebrates the day of Śrī Rāma’s birth to King Daśaratha and Queen Kausalya in the city of Ayodhya – the Place of Perfect Peace. We celebrate Rāma Navamī on the 9th day of the bright fortnight of the lunar month called Chaitra, which usually falls in April.  This […]

Krishna Janmashtami

The holy day of Sri Krishna’s birth, called Krishna Janmashtami (Sanskrit: कृष्ण जन्माष्टमी, kṛṣṇa janmāṣṭami), is celebrated with joyous feelings throughout India and the world on the 8th day of the dark fortnight in the month of Shravan (August-September). At the Devi Mandir we celebrate Janmashtami with the elaborate worship of Sri Krishna, including the […]

Sapada Baksha Recipe

This is a recipe given by Lord Vishnu himself in the Satya Narayana Vrat, the story of the vow to speak and act in truth. Shree Maa prepares this sweet porridge every full moon to offer along with the story’s recitation.
 

Labra Recipe (5 types of vegetables)

Labra is the perfect festival dish. It’s five vegetables bring a variety of flavor, color, and texture, while spices add exotic aromas and taste to this healthy dish. When prepared and offered with purity and devotion, it nourishes the body, mind, and soul!
 

Arghya

Arghya is an item that we offer to our deity during puja. It is a corsage, consisting of a banana and other offerings wrapped inside of a red cloth.

These are Shree Maa’s instructions on how to make an arghya.

 

Urad Dal Recipe

Urad dal is one of Shiva’s favorite dishes. This particular recipe from Shree Maa is very nutritious and flavorful – with hints of cinnamon, anise, and cumin. A wonderful offering for Lord Shiva!

 

Moong Daal Prasad Recipe

This a simple preparation of soaked mung beans, bananas, and coconut. Make it as a devotional offering to enhance your relationship with the Divine Soul within.

 

Monthly and Weekly Worship of Lord Shiva

Mondays are special days for Lord Shiva as are the 13th and 14th days of the Lunar Fortnight. These days are perfect opportunities to worship and cook for Lord Shiva. Lord Shiva enjoys worship with white flowers, and kitchuri and pongal are two of his favorite foods.