Origin, growth, and development of Vaishnava āgama system of philosophy and literature.

The Encyclopedia of Hinduism contains over 900 entries reflecting recent advances in scholarship which have raised new theoretical and methodological issues as well as identifying new areas of study which have not been addressed previously. The debate over the term 'Hinduism' in the light of post-Orientalist critiques is just one example of how once standard academic frameworks have been called into question. Entries range from 150-word definitions of terms and concepts to 5,000-word in-depth investigations of major topics. The Encyclopedia covers all aspects of Hinduism but departs from other works in including more ethnographic and contemporary material in contrast to an exclusively textual and historical approach. It includes a broad range of subject matter such as: historical developments (among them nineteenth and twentieth century reform and revival); geographical distribution (especially the diaspora); major and minor movements; philosophies and theologies; scriptures; deities; temples and sacred sites; pilgrimages; festivals; rites of passage; worship; religious arts (sculpture, architecture, music, dance, etc.); religious sciences (e.g. astrology); biographies of leading figures; local and regional traditions; caste and untouchability; feminism and women's religion; nationalism and the Hindu radical right; and new religious movements. The history of study and the role of important scholars past and present are also discussed. Accessibility to all levels of reader has been a priority and no previous knowledge is assumed. However, the in-depth larger entries and the design of the work in line with the latest scholarly advances means that the volume will be of considerable interest to specialists. The whole is cross-referenced and bibliographies attach to the larger entries. There is a full index.

This book highlights the specificities of Indian portraiture in sculpted and painted images, its relationship with divine images and aims, with the help of textual and epigraphical references, to understand the development of Indian imagery. It questions also the social and religious implications related to this issue.

This constitues the first volume of the series. It indicates the scope of the project and provides a list of sources which will be surveyed in the sebsequent volumes, as well as provide a guide to secondary literature for further study of Indian Philosophy. It lists in relative chronological order, Sanskrit and Tamil works. All known editions and translations into European languages are cited; where puplished versions of the text are not known a guide to the location of manuscripts of the work is provided.

This is a scholarly book on one of the oldest living religions of India. Tracing the basic tenets of Vaisnavism to the hymns of Rgveda the earliest religious literature of the world, the author has shown how an ancient cult has developed itself by successive stages into a well-formulated monotheistic system in the hands of Ramanuja and his illustrious followers. In the second part of the book the fundamental philosophical theories of Visistadvaita Vedanta are presented to prove that Vaisnavism is not a mere religious cult, but has a credible philosophic foundation.

The 12 long years research of Vedas and decoding the hidden scientific formulas have been put in a story form in easy understanding of the hard to get facts that benefits the readers. The reader will find the critical and vital difference between some of the Prominent Works on Lord Shiva Goddess Parvati and their children in this work that to demystify the myths. This work lucidly brings out the teachings of Ganesh-Geeta and retold the mythology in an amazing way for the benefit of all. The readers will love to chew and remember for the ages. — Sivkishen, Author It is believed that a mere glance at Sri Chakra gives the result of performing hundred Vedic rituals then what if the goddess is Meditated upon, Praised and Glorified as purest form of Consciousness ? This book does exactly that! Imagine the power of her 'Supreme Brilliance' guiding you through the darkest alleys towards all round Success ... Imagine receiving an ocean of Compassion... I urge the readers to give themselves a chance to carve a fulfilling life under the Divine Mother's Cosmic Direction .. Kudos to Kishenji for being the channel and making that happen." —Karuna Gopal (President, Futuristic Cities) "A must-read for anyone who wants to get on the "way of life", this 'Kingdom of Shiva' provides right orientation and knowledge to face the challenges of life by aligning them of valuable life." - Prof. S P Garg "The one book on authentic Mythological classic epic stories is 'Kingdom of Shiva'. This is Eastern Wisdom a must to have at least one." — Prof. Surendera Kala "In the Epic story of 'Kingdom of Shiva', the great Goddess advocates that 'a beautiful mind and beautiful heart sparks bright ideas. One can't just dream but should believe in the self and face challenges of Life Battles with courage. You have the POWER to ACHIEVE IT.' This is the 'Glow of Hope' and every one must read." -Shanti Singh B.Com. LLB, Director, Vidyadayani Junior and Degree College for Women, Hyderabad India