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Hinduism is the world's oldest religion, according to many scholars, with roots and customs dating back nearly 4,000 years. It is one of the few ancient religions to survive in modern times. Hinduism is the world’s third-largest religion after Christianity and Islam, with about 1 billion followers. It is the majority religion in India.
The Cheltenham Krishna Mandir was established and inaugurated in July 1986 providing a place of worship for Hindus in Gloucestershire. The Cheltenham Mandir is unique whereby it is run by volunteers and open daily for morning and evening worship. A Brahmin (Priest) is invited for all pujas (special acts of worship) which is performed during all special festivals throughout the year.
The Mandir is a sacred house of God and in the interest of preserving its sanctity and ensuring worshippers can enjoy the spiritual ambience.
Hindus are tolerant of other faiths and everything around them. Hindus believe that existence is a cycle of birth, death and rebirth governed by Karma (deeds or actions).
Radha & Krishna
Radha Krishna are the symbol of divine love and the bond of togetherness. Their relationship was spiritual and above earthly pleasures, rules and laws. They had united spiritually and so there was no need for marriage. Shri Krishna devotees either hail Radha or take Krishna's name as RadheKrishna, meaning Radha's Krishna, therefore Radha and Krishna's names are uttered in one breath, as they are not different but one being.
Lakshman, Ram & Sita
The holy scripture Ramayana is based on the story of Lord Rama his wife Sita and brother Laxman who are exiled to the forest for 14 years. This wonderful story is not just entertaining- it also has a deeper meaning, especially around the time of Diwali.
In the story, Rama, Sita and Laxman represent goodness and light, whilst Ravana, the demon king, represents darkness and evil. Ravana is defeated by Rama and his army. The message is that with persistence and dedication, goodness will win over evil.
To celebrate the power of goodness, Hindus celebrate Diwali every year by lighting candles and setting off fireworks. This helps them to remember Rama and Sita’s story, and the significance of its message.
Amba Maa
Goddess Amba is the original energy force. She has the divine power to destroy your worldly obstacles. She sits on a Lion and has eight arms, holding multiple weapons She is referred to as Mother Earth and is also considered as the Mother of the Universe as well as all beings.
Baby Krishna (Bal Krishna)
Bal Krishna is the 8th son of Devki and Nandji. His previous 7 siblings were killed by the demon Kansa but he was rescued and taken to a place called Brindavan where Yashoda became his mother. He performed many miracles and slew many demons even though he was only a baby.
Ganesh
Lord Ganesh is readily identified as the elephant god. He is honoured at the start of any worship or ritual. He is known as the remover of all obstacles and of wisdom and knowledge and devotees believe Ganesha brings them good luck.
Shiva (and Nandi)
Lord Shiva is known as the destroyer - the most powerful god of the Hindu Trinity, along with Brahma and Vishnu. As recognition of this fact, his shrine is separated from those of other gods in the temple. He lives on Mount Kailash with his wife Goddess Parvati and sons Ganesh and Kartikeya. He is worshipped in the form of a Lingham (holy black stone) and Monday is considered to be his day of Worship.
Durga Maa
In Hinduism, the goddess Durga, also known as Shakti or Devi, is the protective mother of the universe. She is one of the faith's most popular deities, a protector of all that is good and harmonious in the world. Sitting astride a lion or tiger, the multi-limbed Durga battles the forces of evil in the world.
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