Origin of Sanatana Dharma...it's specialities

 Sanatana Dharma, commonly known as Hinduism, is one of the world's oldest religions, with roots dating back thousands of years in the Indian subcontinent. The term "Sanatana Dharma" means the eternal or timeless path, emphasizing the timeless principles and practices that form the core of Hinduism.

Its specialties include a vast and diverse collection of scriptures, including the Vedas, Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata.

Hinduism is characterized by its belief in karma (the law of cause and effect), dharma (duty and righteousness), reincarnation, and moksha (liberation from the cycle of birth and death). It also encompasses a wide array of rituals, philosophies, and practices, accommodating various beliefs and practices within its fold.

One of its unique aspects is the concept of "bhakti" (devotion) and the worship of a multitude of deities, each representing different aspects of the supreme reality, Brahman. Hinduism also emphasizes the importance of meditation, yoga, and the pursuit of self-realization.

Additionally, Hinduism has a rich cultural heritage, including art, music, dance, and festivals, which are an integral part of its identity. Its inclusive nature allows followers to choose diverse paths to spiritual growth, making it a complex and multifaceted religious tradition.

Basis of Sanatan Dharma

The ideology of Sanatan Dharma is centered around the concept of moksha, which is the ultimate goal of spiritual liberation or enlightenment. According to this belief system, the ultimate aim of life is to transcend the cycle of birth and death, and to achieve a state of spiritual unity with the ultimate divine reality.

Sanatan Dharma also promotes the idea of karma, which is the belief that every action and thought has a corresponding effect in this life or in future lives. It is believed that the accumulation of good and bad karma determines the nature of one's current and future existence.

Additionally, Sanatan Dharma emphasizes the importance of dharma, which refers to one's duty or moral code. It is believed that each individual has a specific role to play in the world and that fulfilling one's dharma is essential for spiritual progress.

Another important aspect of Sanatan Dharma is the belief in the multiple gods and goddesses, who are seen as different manifestations of the ultimate divine reality. These deities are often worshipped and invoked for guidance, protection, and blessings.

Lastly, Sanatan Dharma, also emphasizes on Yoga and Meditation as the means to achieve spiritual liberation, these practices aim to still the mind and bring about a state of inner peace and awareness.

Bhagavad Gita Teachings

The Bhagavad Gita is a Hindu scripture that is a part of the epic poem Mahabharata. It is a conversation between the warrior Arjuna and Lord Krishna, who serves as Arjuna's charioteer and guide.

The Gita is considered one of the most important texts in Hinduism and is considered a guide to the spiritual path of self-realization and liberation. It teaches the importance of duty, selfless action, and detachment from the fruits of one's actions. It also emphasizes the importance of devotion to God, and the idea that ultimate reality is a personal God who is present in all things.

The Gita also teaches the concept of "yoga" which is a way of understanding the nature of the self, the universe, and the relationship between the two. It teaches the importance of developing discipline and self-control in order to achieve spiritual enlightenment.

In summary the Gita is a guide on the path to self-realization, and teaches the importance of duty, devotion, and detachment, as well as the concept of yoga as a means of attaining enlightenment.

Hinduism in Kashmir and its origin

Hinduism has a long history in the region of Kashmir, with the earliest known reference to the area as a sacred place in Hindu texts dating back to the Mahabharata and the Rajatarangini, a 12th century chronicle of the kings of Kashmir. The ancient Hindu texts such as the Nilmat Purana and the Rajatarangini refer to the Valley of Kashmir as "Paradise", "Kashmira" and "Kashyap-Mir" after the sage Kashyap who is believed to have drained a lake to create the present-day valley. The ancient Hindu texts also mention the presence of many sacred temples and shrines in the region, and the area is still considered to be a major pilgrimage site for Hindus today.

The origins of Hinduism in the region are not entirely clear, but it is likely that it was brought to the area by traders, travelers, and scholars who came from the Indian subcontinent. The area was also under the rule of Hindu kings for much of its history, which likely helped to establish and spread the religion throughout the region.

However, in recent times due to the rise of militancy in the Valley of Kashmir, many Hindu Pandits have migrated from the region and the present Hindu population is very minimal in the valley.

Martand Sun Temple Kashmir History

The Martand Temple, also known as the Martand Sun Temple, is a Hindu temple located in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. It is believed to have been built during the 8th century AD, during the reign of the Karkota dynasty.

The temple is dedicated to the god Surya and is known for its architectural and sculptural beauty. The temple is built on a large platform and has a rectangular layout with a vestibule, a mandapa, and a garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum).

The temple is adorned with a number of sculptures of gods and goddesses, as well as figures of dancers and musicians. The temple also features a large number of columns and pilasters that are intricately carved with images of gods, goddesses, and other figures

The temple was damaged and destroyed by the Muslim ruler Sikandar Butshikan in the 14th century. Today, the remains of the temple are protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site.