The Jai Jais Blog
Symbolism of the Lotus Flower and A Story of Creation
by Sunita ShahThe symbolic Lotus flower, in shades of white, pink and purple. An aquatic plant, beauty growing from the depth of muddy waters. An iconic symbol in Hinduism, used as the throne of many deities. Definitely one of my favourite flowers, there is something so majestic about the beauty and symbolism of the lotus.
The lotus also has an exciting part to play in the story of creation.
Why does Lord Krishna have a peacock feather?
by Sunita ShahOur beloved Lord Krishna, the butter thief, the cow herder of Gokul. A very popular Hindu god worshipped by millions across the world. Lord Krishna has been charmer since he was young. Winning the hearts of everyone he crossed paths with. Lord Krishna is said to have been born over 5200 years ago and he is the most popular and also the most powerful incarnation of Lord Vishnu. It is said he was born to free the Earth from all evil.
Dressed in a yellow loin-cloth, with a flute to his lips, Lord Krishna is compassionate, all-knowing and the embodiment of dharma or righteousness. One of the most defining symbols of Lord Krishna is the peacock feather on his head. There have been many tales surrounding the reason Lord Krishna wears a peacock feather, let’s explore why the Jai Jais way.
Behind the Books
by Sunita ShahYeahhh! Its birthday month. Not only on the 16th December its my birthday, after hitting 40 who is counting! The Jai Jais celebrates it’s 5th Birthday. We released our first book ‘Ganesh’ in 2015, and 5 years on we have 20 titles, yoga cards and some wonderful products. I thought I would come out from behind the books and tell you a little more about…simply “me”.
Why do we Light a Diya?
by Sunita ShahWhy Do we Worship Tulsi?
by Sunita ShahGoing to school with The Jai Jais
by Sunita ShahChildren’s life in school has changed so much during this Covid climate. During lock down parents all over the world, had to take on a new role as teachers. I know from my personal experience with my boys it definitely had its ups and downs!... but we all came through it, and it just brought us closer together.
So children.. why not take The Jai Jais with you to nursery and school, for fun and adventures in your day.
The Remover of Obstacles
by Sunita ShahElephants 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?
Days of Diwali with The Jai Jais
by Sunita ShahLight is one of the oldest and most meaningful symbols, found in cultures and religions worldwide. Deepawali, Deepavali, or Diwali is the biggest and the brightest of all Hindu festivals. It is the festival of lights: deep means "light" and avali "a row" to become "a row of lights." The Festival of Lights, is the most popular Hindu festival of good overcoming evil. The triumph of light over darkness is celebrated with Divas, lamps and fireworks. Diwali is composed of five days, each with its own story.
Kali Ma A Goddess Misunderstood
by Sunita ShahA Brothers Bond
by Sunita ShahThe Demons of the Ramayana
by Sunita ShahVillains, 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?
by Sunita Shahand 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.