The Jai Jais Blog

How was Rama Born?

How was Rama Born?

Extract from The Jai Jais Legends Series “Ramayana”

Thousands of years ago, there lived a great king called Dasharatha in the beautiful city of Ayodhya, the capital of the kingdom of Kosala in the state of Uttar Pradesh. He was known for his loyalty to the gods and his bravery in battle; he had helped the gods in their fight against many fierce and strong demons, a privilege that was granted to only a few mortals. King Dashratha’s people loved him dearly as he was kind and fair. The kingdom was happy and prosperous, but King Dasharatha was filled with deep sadness; even though he had a wonderful kingdom and three wives, he had no heir to the throne, and was becoming older.

How Hanuman Got his Monkey Face?

How Hanuman Got his Monkey Face?

Mummy, "Why has Hanuman got a face like a monkey?", this was one of the first questions asked by my son when we were doing our Jai Jai one day. An inquisitive little mind with a thirst for knowledge. So what did mummy do? Find out The Jai Jais way.

Hindu mythology is full of intriguing stories. Stories of what happened are told in many ways. If we are willing to learn each story has its own charm, and we learn in a fun way and engaging way with the Jai Jais. There are many stories of how Hanuman got his monkey face here is one. The Jai Jais Way.

The Remover of Obstacles

The Remover of Obstacles

Elephants are the largest land animals on Earth, and they're one of the most unique looking mystical animals. Elephants have always been my favourite animal their size and strength and the symbolism behind the mighty animal.

As a child before we did anything special we would always do Ganesh Pooja, before I sat exams, when I took my driving test, anything new I embark on I always take his name… why? Because mummy always told me to!! She use to say “He removes all the obstacles in your path”.  As we see in the Hindu New Year of 2077, may Hindus around the world pray to Ganesh… but why is he known as the remover of obstacles?

The Demons of the Ramayana

The Demons of the Ramayana

Villains, ghosts, witches and demons, every good story has a bad guy…. The conflict of “good” versus “evil”.  Somehow good always prevails, but who doesn’t like a “Happy Ending?”.

The Ramayana, the story of the mighty warrior Lord Rama through his trials and tribulations, has inspired millions over the centuries. Originally written in the ancient language of Sanskrit by Sage Valmiki, the Ramayana teaches us about Dharma (duty and righteousness), devotion, hope, bravery, respect, confidence, among many more qualities.

Exiled for fourteen years, by his dearest father King Dasharatha, Lord Rama began an adventure to save his beautiful wife Princess Sita from the evil demon Ravana; with his faithful brother Lakshamana, and companion Hanuman.  The finale is his mighty battle with Ravana but along the way with his trusted  bow….there are a number of demons they slay…. But who are they?, many blogs talk about the gods and goddesses, but it’s time to find out more about the bad guys. All these demons do not feature in the Jai Jais Ramayana as the version is shortened for children to enjoy.

TAKE NOTE: There will be some gore which may not be suitable for some children.

What is Karva Chauth?

What is Karva Chauth?

In a religion, where festivals form the essence of life. The colour and the vibrancy. The deep
and meaningful symbolism behind the festivals we celebrate, Karva Chauth is no exception. The word Karva Chauth has a specific meaning. Karva means earthen pot while chauth means fourth. Karwa Chauth is about making offerings to the moon using Karva. Karva Chauth the festival of happiness and togetherness celebrated by married as well as unmarried women, for the long life of their husbands and partners. As per the Hindu traditions in any
festival that celebrates the bond of marriage or love, worshipping Lord Shiva and Goddess Paravti is an essential part of the rituals. Unlike other festivals, this festival is more about following rituals, observing fasts and the best part is dressing up like a newly-wed bride and worshipping the moon. All these together make this festival a celebration of the bond of love
and marriage.
Who was Mahavir? What does he have to do with Diwali?

Who was Mahavir? What does he have to do with Diwali?

Mahavir is the most important personality in the Jain religion, for he was the last in the line of 24 Tirthankars in the current time cycle.* Tirthankar means “Ford Maker” – so a Tirthankar is one who who has succeeded in crossing over life's stream of rebirths and has made a path for others to follow. Being the last of the 24 Tirthankars, Mahavir’s teachings are those that are followed by Jains today. However, the teachings are no different to those preached by all of the other Tirthankars that preceded Mahavir. Why do Jains celebrate Diwali?
When Rama met Sita.

When Rama met Sita.

With Diwali round the corner I couldn’t help turning to the epic love story of ancient Hindu Legend, “The Ramayana”.  Again a beautiful love story of the fight of good over evil. The stories of Rama and Sita are famous throughout the world and their tales are told in the Ramayana. Rama and Sita are husband and wife. Sita is kidnapped by the demon king Ravan and Rama goes to rescue her. They have many adventures and troubles along the way. In the end, Rama and Sita are reunited.

So how did Rama meet Sita?... Here is an extract from the Jai Jais Legends Series “ The Ramayana”, Page 9-10.  Find out more in our blog.