Sorathiya Prajapati’s Community U.K (Kansara)

History Prajapati

We are called the Prajapati Community. In India & overseas, there is a large number of Prajapati Community. The larger portion of our Community has been divided into different parts of the country.

The Prajapati Community population in India alone is approximately 7 million, in Gujarat; the whole Community is divided mostly in under-mentioned groups:

(1) Gurjar - live all over Gujarat

(2) Varia - live in Panchmahal, Kalol, Charotar, Ahmedvad, Sabarkantha, Jamnagar, and Bhavnagar, Botad

(3) Lad - live mainly in Surat, Navsari and Mumbai also overseas

(4) Mistry - live mainly in Surat, Navsari and Mumbai also overseas

(5) Vatalia - live mainly in Ahmedavad, Dholka,Dhandhuka, Bhavnagar and Mahuva

(6) Sorathiya – live mainly in Saurashtra, ahmedabad, Mumbai also overseas

(7) Ajmeri - live mainly in Bharuch and Vadodara and on the shores of River Narmada

(8) Maru - They originally came from Marvad and Jodhpur and settled in Gujarat

(9) Khambati - live near Petlad and Khambhat area

The population of Gujarati Prajapati is estimated approximately 35,00,000

We are the family of Daksa Prajapati. It is mentioned in our Purans. Daksa Prajapati was the son of Lord Brahma. Daksa Prajapati was a great scholar of Yajur-Ved. One day, Brahma was pleased with him, and he gave Daksa Prajapati a prestigious rank, by given this rank, he became very proud of it, and he decided to make Maha Yagna. He invited Rishis, Muniyos, Devos (Demi-God), and Brahmins. All of those came to Maha-Yagna and set at the Mandap. Daksa Prajapati entered the Mandap, on his arrival, everybody stood up except Brahma and Shankar, and they remained seated. After observing this, Daksa Prajapati said," This Shankar is my son-in-law, but he doesn't know how to respect me, so I would not allow him to take part in Maha-Yagna". Hearing this, Shankar remained calm, but Nandi, could not bear it, and he told Daksa Prajapati, "Hey Daksa, you're very proud and conceited, and don't consider Shankar as your son-in-law, but as you have insulted Shankar, and did not give respect to him in this Mandap, in return, I give you a curse that your entire lineage, in-spite of being of a high and holy Brahmin, in Kali Yug, they'll be known as non-Brahmins".

Thus, we are being Daksa Prajapati's succession, yet by the curse by Nandi, our rank went down in Kali Yug. From this, it will be known that the Prajapati Community is the rank of Daksa Prajapati, and Brahmin heritage, high and prestigious community and we also know, now, the root of our Community. To support this, there are many stories in Shrimad Bhagwad, and Purans. Ancient Arya Samaj was divided in four castes, such as

(1) Brahmin

(2) Ksatriyas

(3) Vaishyas

(4) Shudra

The person of Shudra also could be a Brahman, such as Valmiki Rushi, was Shudra by birth, however, he was able to become Brahmin. Current castes and sub-castes are based on their particular skills. In ancient times, Prajapati was very high up on the rank, and during that time, the higher caste used to come to Prajapati's home to stay with him.

In Dwapar Yug, the Pandavas stayed at Prajapati's home. The Prajapati community was very consecrated, and of refined culture. After a long time, the name of Prajapati went through a significant downfall. But, its ancient, high, consecrated values can still be noticed in hidden adage.

To prove that belief, in Prajapati community today, there are so many sants in our community. In Satyug, the guru of Bhakta Pralad, was Shreebai Mataji, who was Prajapati Bhakta. Gora Kumbhar, was also saint from Maharashtra. In 15th century, Padamnath Prabhu, who was in Patan, in Gujrat, and also a Prajapati. In Kheda district of Gujrat, and Borsad, Sant Shree Gopaldas also was Prajapati, in Rajasthan, Bhakta Koobaji in Kankaviti, Bhakta Ranka Vanka, in Saurashatra, Dhhanga Bhagat, and Mepa Bhagat in Tikar, near Hadavad in Gujrat Kara Bhagat in Godhra, Sant Shree Purshotam Dasji, all were Prajapati. Also, in Saurastra, Chindal Bhagat, and Ramji Bhagat. In Vanthali Heera Bhagat in, Gadhaka, Jiva Bhagat, Rana Bordi, Bogha Bhagat (Mahant Shree Balak Dasji), at Navadra, Jina Bhagat, at Bagavadar, Jiva Bhagat (Sant Hans Dasji), All these were also Prajapati's. Besides, these in Junagadh district, at Satadhar, at the sight of Shree Aapa Giga, there was Shamji Bhagat, and at the sight of Sat Devivas, or Parab was Sat Sevadas. All these were Prajapatis.

From these, it can be proved that the high, consecrated values, and morals, by the mercy of our ancestors have remained for all the time in the Prajapati community. Due to the high morals of our ancestors, many Bhaktos have taken birth, these Bhaktos, by doing pottery work, artwork, or carpentry work, and either being poor or rich, were able to provide accommodation to the higher caste, had true knowledge of religion, and the understanding of their holy duty. This is the proof of holiness and ancient high values and morals of Prajapati community.

Just as Brahma, the maker of humanity, used the five elements: fire, water, wind, earth and air, so did the descendant's of the son of Brahma, Daksa Prajapati, also uses the five elements: fire, water, wind, earth, and air, to create different types of utensils and artwork. These items are mainly used for the basic use for the general public uses, by providing for eating, drinking, living and worshipping. These art items are handy and useful for the poor and the rich alike. These valuable artistes and their rank of art has persevered and preserved for generations.

So the present, castes and sub-castes are mainly based on the skill levels. The art of pottery is very ancient and in the old days the basic existence depended on these earthenware utensils and deities. These handy-works have been recovered by digging in some of the old cities and from that it is known that the art of pottery has continued yug to yug and is very ancient.

At present time the whole Hindu Samaj has been divided into different castes and sub castes, due to the skill levels expanding. And therefore, the marriages can be taken place in their own castes and also for this reason the whole community is further divided in different languages/dialects according to provinces/districts, not only that, the speaker of the same languages are also divided into small groups and it was restricted to mingle and socialize, let alone marry outside of that community.

At present, the pottery work is considered low because there is a higher demand for iron, steel and copper materials. Things like stainless steel and other bright materials have taken place of earthen - ware.

Thus, Prajapati community has been divided a long time ago and dispersed in different parts of India. Today, there is evidence of these fragmentations. There are so many reasons for falling down the rank of the community and one of the main reasons for this fall down is the lack of education. Due to the lack of education mobility upward is restricted. There is also a reluctance to move away from the customs. For these reasons, in the past the Prajapati community has been considered a low community from educated community. The second reason is that these artisans had to depend on farmers for their living and therefore the Prajapati community was called, "Vasvaya", and considered as dependent on other communities. By good luck, Prajapati community slowly went towards education, and some people went to foreign countries, and they formed alliances with other communities. Slowly the barrier of sitting and eating was broken down.

In past, from Prajapati community some people came in touch with the Ksatriyas, and they started to work like them, so people who mixed with Shatriyas and attained a similar surname. For example Saurastra and Kutch, in Prajapati community there is a surname like Chavda, Vaghela, Solanki, Gohil, Parmar, and these surnames are recognized as such even at present. The following surnames in the Shree Sorathia Prajapati community are being used and obtained through heritage for centuries:

Bhalsod, Bharadwa, Bharadwaj, Buhecha, Chandegra, Chavda, Chhaya, Chitroda, Chohan, Dabhi, Devalia, Dhokia, Dodia, Fatania, Gadher, Gadhia, Ghadhvana, Ghedia, Girnara, Gohil, Gola, Jagatia, Jethwa, Jogia, Kamalia, Kansara, Kataria, Kholia, Koria, Kukadia, Ladva, Majevadia, Mandora, Mavadia, Maru, Nena, Oza, Pankhania, Parmar, Pithia, Poria, Rathod, Ravat, Sarvaiya, Savania, Shingadia, Solanki, Taank, Vadher, Vadukul, Vara, Vegad, Visavadia, and Yadav…. I t should be noted that some of these family names are often spelt in a variation for example, Gohil is spelt Gohel and Ladwa is spelt Ladva, etc.

The people who were working in the masonry or carpentry occupations were given the title of a mason, carpenter, or masonry etc., and they are known by these names even at present. The people who worked as potters, making utensils, tiles or any related products from earth were called, "Kumbhkar." Kumbh - means clay utensils and kar - means maker. Therefore, Kumbhkar was later called,"Kumbhar." Due to the increase use of their trade and that became well known as, one "Jati" people of Prajapati community it appears that their geographical location determined their title such as Sorathia, Lad, and Varia. Therefore, people who stayed and lived in Sorath were known as "Sorathia Prajapati."

During the wedding ceremony, the presence of Demi-god was considered necessary and in Indian community at the time of all weddings in the Mandap, in all four corners the clay pots made by Kumbhar were necessary due to the fact that the presence of the Demi-god Prajapati was essential and it is a custom to bind such " Chori."(Chori- means that several clay pots are erected upright by each pillar of the Mandap.) This type of Chori is not used in the marriage of Kumbhar/Prajapati community and this proves that Prajapati community originated from a high rank and therefore it is considered unnecessary to use "Chori" because the presence of Demi-gods in the Prajapati community is already there.

Higher castes of Indian community such as Brahmins, Banyas, etc. do not consider it an offense to drink water at a Prajapatis home and when they travel whether in a village or a city, even though there were other facilities available these travelers preferred to stay at Prajapatis house. Therefore its established that by preferring to spend the night at the home of a Prajapati over any other facility available it proves that the Prajapati Community is pure and holy and high in rank, since time immemorable. Looking at the history of the Prajapati community the nature of Prajapati is to provide hospitality, shelter, and politeness to their guests.

In Sinhaldip, the daughter of King Bojraj named Ranakdevi born in "Mood" constellation and by telling of astrologers, the King abandoned her. She survived and who was responsible for bringing her up, giving her shelter, and being a dutiful wife and having high morals? He was Prajapati Hadmat, there are so many such shelter givers, and this is one example. This is proved by our past history. The Kings of Gujrat, took advantage of the Prajapati community, to do free work as "Vasvaya" without paying anything. The potter had to give his services free of charge when officers came and stayed in their town or village, the potter was called to give free service for bringing the water during the stay. Some of the potters left making pottery and became carpenters, but even then they could not escape "Vethna Vara." For generations, these Vethna Vara continued and Prajapati community suffered this heavy task. Only after India gained independence did the Prajapati community received a relief from this task. Many prajapati's became artists, and many of them have received accolades, prizes, and badges, etc for their artwork.

Looking at the present time, the people of Prajapati community in comparison to other communities are poor yet their ancient morales are at a high place. The emphasis on education is a low priority a rare few have expanded the business of pottery and erected big factories to make bricks and other items. They're making so many utensils, clay toys, housewares, and different types of artwork from clay and in doing so they have advanced. In other business, they are doing farming, building, making furniture, and other old crafts and they are promoting artisans. Today, there are some that are educated and have become barristers, lawyers, doctors, engineers, politicians, magistrates, and the government also employs some of them. The whole community is advancing and giving these types of services at different places. They have also established provincial, worldwide Prajapati mandals, Prajapati Samaj, Prajapati youth mandals and some of these publish monthly news letters and give educational advice, suggestions, etc. to advance higher.

Adventurous members of the Prajapati community have traveled and settled in foreign countries and they are trying hard to give education to Prajapati brethren. The majority of these people abroad are engaged as carpenters, masonry, and building work , some of these people have started their own businesses, and also managing small and large businesses. In comparison of other communities the standard of education is very low in our community. A possible reason for this can be lack of financial support, for there maybe so many families who wish to give their children higher education of university, but this wish can not be fulfilled due to lack of money and financial support for this reason the bright children of the future are denied higher education and the vicious cycle of poverty continues, because they can not get advantages of the benefits of education which is able to further or advance their lifestyle.

To avoid the difficulties of our community the provincial mandals should set up an educational fund, to help the children of the community and establish a scholarship for such funds it is really necessary to establish this scholarship if we want our children to progress.

In Gujarat, Prajapati Community having 21 Branch. Some of the Prajapati’s surname will consider as a place like

Variya Prajapati ( Mumbai) Aasvadia

Kanpara, Kapadia, Charolia, Chandrapiya, Juvarda, Jotaniya, Timbalia, Tundiya, Thoriya, Dhamoshiya, Nadiyapara, Badelia, Maradiya, Mudashiya, Mordhara, Varmora, Vasani, Vispara, Sanura, Sardhara, Arviya, Sitapara, Surani, Harnesha.

Variya Prajapati’s (Morbi)

Andodariya, Ubhadiya, Kansagra, Garotar, Girnari, Devaliya, Gharodiya, Nagvadiya, Mariyaniya, Nandasiya, Badrikhiya, Bagsara, Baregiya, Bhorniya, Mahijadiya, Maddiya, Vadoliya, Vamja, arevadiya, Varneshiya, Vahdeshiya, Sachaniya, Sadashiya, Savadoya.

Variya Prajapati’s ( Nadiad)

Fatudiya, Kapadia, Golaniya, Deraniya, Zanzukiya, Danani, Parbadiya, Bhamani, Mitaliya, Meghani, Mokani, Mogidara, Ranpura, Ramani, Lakhtariya, Luvani, Vadgama, Sapra, Hamirani.

Variya Prajapati’s (JamKhambriya)

Ajmeriya, Aashiyana, Ideriya, Kherada, Garodhra, Chachpara, Tankodara, Derora, Nadiyapara, Panchasara, Morzariya, Lathiya, Variya, Vasveliya, Vachanni, Vadoliya.

Kachhi Prajapati

Aadisara, Gotrakiya, Gohil, Gangani, Ghoda, Chavda, Chonani, Chandura, Jekdiya, Zizuvadiya, Tharadra, Datraniya, Nathani, Naykiya, Puranmiya, Bhuchecha, Bhatti, Bhinde, Mithavaya, Rathod, Rakua, Variya, Vaghani, Vasani, Shinara, Saretiya, Hamipara, Halai.

Banas Khata Gujjar Prajapati

Aanavadiya, Oza, Aatroliya, Kamboya, Kambdiya, Kodiya, Concractor, Khadaliya, Gujjar, Ghacheliya, Chadokhiya, Chadotariya, Chapaneri, Jaloriya, Dalvaniya, Dhedhala, Navisniya, Nandodariya, Patni, Bhagdiya, Madaniya, Mahival, Megada, Madaniya, Vadgama, Vadnagra, Valmiya, Vavdiya, Samochiya, Sagrasniya, Swami.

Shree Aath Pargana Gujjar Prajapati’s Ahmedabad

Uparlla, Jotaniya, Panchsara, Upara, Zinzuvadiya, Prajapati, Upriyara, Dathaniya, Bakraniya, Upala, Dangrechiya, Bajaniya, Oza, Tajpura, Bhadriya, Koidiya, Taspara, Bhalgama, Kordiya, Dalwadi, Malliya, Kolvada, Detroja, Munpara, Kumbhaniya, Ghumasana, Modiya, Kuvariya, Dholakiya, Moidiya, Khordiya, agvadiya, Mandli, Gujjar, Nayakpura, Lakhtariya, Gorvadiya, Patadiya, Lechiya, Goriyavada, Parurpala, Viramgami, Goya, Paruupaliya, Vedukiya, Ghumasana, Paruparla, Shichora, Chavda, Paruparla, Satapara, Chhon, Parupaliya, Sureliya, Jasalpura, Palliya, Sokanki, Jesalpura, Paliya, Harija, Jotani, Hareja.

Gujjar Prajapati’s Surname

Katakpara, Kamdiya, Koshiya, Kudla, Kordiya, Kachdiya, Kaprotiya, Kangrechiya, Kacha, Kotadiya, Kukadiya, Karyani, Kasampara, Khokhar, Khichaadiya, Khakhariya, Gavaniya, Gujarati, Gadhvana, Jagani, Gohel, Ghatliya, Chauhan, Chadotra, Chavda, Changdiya, Zinzuvadiya, Jagtiya, Jogidas, Jadhav, Jethva, Jambudiya, Dhorkiya, Dhulkotiya, Dabhi, Dodiya, Tank, Talsaniya, Nagvadiya, Nagdipa, Padliya, Andiyadi, Panchasara, Patadiya, Pipaliya, Parmar, Pubhadiya, Bavadiya, Bakotiya, Bhalgama, Bhalsod, Rajvadiya, Rathod, Rukadiya, Bhutiya, Mandli, Malvaniya, Madiya, Mathkiya, Makhechiya, Makwana, Mandlik, Muliya, Machoya, Mekhiya, Satani, Satapara, Ladva, Vada, Hadvadiya, Halas, Oza, Ajmera, Vaghela, Vejalpura, Upara.

Char Pargana Prajapati’s Surname

Aabua, Gadviya, Gelda, Gohil, Dhunela, Ghesdiya, Ghoda, Ghetiyana, Chatariya, Chatdiya, Chibdiya, Chudmera, Chovechaya, Chauhan, Jandiya, Jodadra, Tadav, Tetauva, Dadi, Dodgama, Dangmiya, Dhemecha, Tharadra, Thobhani, Deeya, Nandhariya, Naroliya, Padhiyar, Parmar, Bagediya, Budedara, Bharkiya, Bhatvara, Bhoducha, Bhoducha, Bhorola, Makwana, Maghpariya, Medliya, Morvadiya, Rathod, Ramediya, Lunsheriya, Vavecha, Shenavua, Saprediya, Sarvaniya, Sachora, Sisudiya, Sungara, Sogra, Solanki.

Shree Variya Prajapati (Morbi,Than,Vankaner,Rajkot,Surendra Nagar)

Gharodiya, Varvadiya, Uttvadiya, Bhadrakiya, Andodriya, Bhorniya, Savadiya, Varneshiya, Vadaviya, Barejiya, Vaghela, Ghumliya, Kansagra, Vamja, Nadashiya, Barasara, Narniya, Kadivar, Bopaliya, Mahijadiya, Mahemdavadi, Sakhanpara, Sanja, Dhariyela, Padja, Charola, Ubhadiya.

Shree Sorathiya Prajapati’s Surname

Kamriya, Katriya, Kidecha, Kukdiya, Kuskiya, Koriya, Kanchara, Khiloya, Girnara, Gadhiya, Gohel, Gadhvana, Gagher, Ghediya, Chandegra, Chavda, Chauhan, Chitroda, Chhara, Jethva, Jagatiya, Jadhav, Jogiya, Tank, Dabhi, Devdiya, Dhokiya, Nena, Parmar, Pankhaniya, Poriya, Phataniya, Bhucha, Bhardava, Bhalsod, Majevadiya, Mandora, Mavdiya, Makwana, Malviya, Maru, Ravat, Rathod, Ladva, Varu, Visavadiya, Vaghela, Vara, Vadher, Vegad, Vadukud, Singdiya, Sarviya, Savniya, Solanki.

Vataliya Prajapati’s (Rajkot)

Aabareliya, Amethiya, Aerad, Aambaliya, Akevadiya, Aadtalisha. Aatmadiya, Odiyan, Ekvadiya, Unagara, Usvadiya, Kadsariya, Kaklotar, Katariya, Katriya, Kasriya, Kadodariya, Kadoliya, Kareliya, Kanpara, Kar, Kariyaniya, Kukiya, Kasbariya, Khadsaliya, Khaskiya, Khanpariya, Khadiya, Gaghesara, Gundadiya, Gondaliya, Ganoliya, Ghodadara, Ghoghari, Ghaskata, Gharsanda, Ghaneliya, Ghudkhadiya, Jajattar, Jikadara, Jesiya, Jogiya, Jpodara, Jalalpariya, Zanzmera, Tapniya, Dumradiya, Dakhra, Tarsiya, Devganiya, Dhandnukiya, Dholakiya, Dhananiya, Narigara, Navdiya, Nathani, Pubdhiya, Pipliya, Pasesa, Purvesa, Panchviya, Pandav, Panmiya, Parhatjiya, Barad, Badaniya, Bapodara, Bariniya, Bavdiya, Bhadiya, Badiyadara, Bhuttiya, Madvi, Mandviya, Migar, Malankiya, Raval, Rudkiya, Rahukiya, Rana, Lotniya, Loliyana, Lodniya, Lalbhari, Vora, Vyas, Variya, Vadhiyara, Vashiya, Vavdiya, Vadhiya, Verpara, Vejalpuriya, Varsangiya, Vadukadiya, Shihora, Sakhpariya, Sankhbadaniya, Somaliya, Sartanpara, Solanki, Sodagar, Singhani, Sarvaiya, Sorvad, Sosvan, Satusvadiya, Sokhdiya, Sarniya, Sathdiya, Hara.

Parjiya Prajapati’s Surname

Chavda, Bhatti, Malvi, Boricha, Tank, Gohelas, Veraya, Vegad.

Kacchi Prajapati’s Surname

Kordiya, Kacha, Kayat, Korivadiya, Gagani, Gotrakiya, Gaghei, Ghoda, Chonani, Chandura, Zekriya, Zinzuvadiya, Zinzudiya, Zavriya, Dabhi, Tharadara, Datraniya, Dadrecha, Dathani, Naykiya, Panvigha, Padliya, Puraniya, Balgama, Bhatti, Bhalani, Maru, Nasaliya, Mithavaya, Manjva, Medavadi, Rathod, Raphusa, Variyya, Vasani, Vaghani, Sareriya, Suvar, Sinada, Hamipara, Aadesara, Aevariya, Indraviya, Halai, Ravechiya, Panchasariya, Jesarpara.

Shree Gujjar Kshatraya Kadiya Prajapati’s Surname

Cacha, Kakrecha, Kukdiya, Khashiya, Khetani, Kholakiya, Garnara, Gediya, Gohil, Chavda, Chotaliya, Chauhan, Jadhav, Jethva, Tank, Divecha, Ghoriya, Parmar, Poriya, Barad, Bavdiya, Bhatti, Makwana, Malvi, Malviya, Maru, Mevada, Mistry, Mekhiya, Mandor, Yadav, Rathod, Ladva, Lakhani, Varu, Vaghela, Vanra, Vadher, Vada, Sapra, Sapriya, Solanki, Aajagiya.

Sorathiya Prajapati’s Community U.K

Bhalsod, Bhardava, Bhardhraj, Buhecha, Chandegra, Chavda, Chhaya, Chitroda, Chauhan, Dabhi, Devdiya, Dhokiya, Phataniya, Gadher, Gadhiya, Gadvana, Ghedia, Gohil, GOla, Jagtiya, Jethva, Jogiya, Kamaliya, Kansara, Koriya, Kukdaya, Ladva, Majevadiya, Mandora, Mavadiya, Nena, Oza, Pankhaniya, Parmar, Rathod, Ravat, Savaniya, Singadiya, Solanki, Tank, Vadher, Vadukud, Vara, Varu, Vagad, Visavadia, Yadav.

Shree Variya Kumbhar Samaj (Mumbai)

Ajmeriya, Aashiyani, Derada, Idariya, Kherada, Khotari, Lathia, Maheta, Nadiapara, Oza, Panchasara, Sanchania, Sitapara, Takodra, Vadoliya, Vachhabi, Garodhra, Variya.

Kalika Puran - कालिका पुराण

प्रस्तुत हैं पुस्तक के कुछ अंश

।।कालिकायै विद्महे श्मशानवासिन्यै धीमहि तत्रो घोरे प्रचोदयात्।।

कालिका पुराण

कालिका अवतरण वर्णन

पूर्ण रूप से एक ही निष्ठा मे रहने वाले हृदय से समन्वित योगियों के द्वारा सांसारिक भय और पीड़ा के विनाश करने के अनेकों उपाय किए गये हैं। ऐसे भगवान् हरि के दोनों चरण कमल सर्वदा आप सबकी रक्षा करें जो समस्त योगीजनों के चित्त में अविद्या के अन्धकार को दूर हटाने के लिए सूर्य के समान हैं तथा यतिगणों की मुक्ति का कारण स्वरूप हैं। विभु के जन्म में शुद्धि-कुबुद्धि के हनन करने वाली है और इन जन्तुओं के समुदाय को विमोहित कर देने वाली है; वह माया आपकी रक्षा करे। समस्त जगती के आदिकाल में विराजमान पुरुषोत्तम ईश्वर को (जो नित्य ही ज्ञान से परिपूर्ण हैं उनको) प्रणाम करके मैं कालिका पुराण का कथन करूँगा।

हिमालय के समीप में विराजमान मुनियों ने परमाधिक श्रेष्ठ मार्कडेण्य मुनि के चरणों में प्रणिपात करके उनसे कर्मठ प्रभृति मुनिगण ने पूछा था कि हे भगवन्! आपने तात्विक रूप से समस्त शास्त्रों और अंगो के सहित सभी वेदों को सब भली-भाँति मन्थन करके जो कुछ भी साररूप था वह सभी भाँति से वर्णन कर दिया है। हे ब्रह्मन्! समस्त वेदों में और सभी शास्त्रों में जो-जो हमको संशय हुआ था वही आपने ज्ञानसूर्य के द्वारा अन्धकार के ही समान विनिष्ट कर दिया है। हे द्विजों में सर्वश्रेष्ठ! आपके प्रसाद अर्थात् अनुग्रह से हम सब प्रकार से वेदों और शास्त्रों में संशय से रहित हो गये हैं अर्थात् अब हमको किसी में कुछ भी संशय नहीं रहा है।

हे ब्रह्मण! जो ब्रह्माजी ने कहा था वह रहस्य के सहित धर्म शास्त्र आपसे सब ओर से अध्ययन करके हम सब कृतकृत्य अर्थात् सफल हो गए हैं। अब हम लोग पुनः यह श्रवण करने की इच्छा करते हैं कि पुराने समय में काली देवी ने हरि प्रभु का जो परमयति और ईश्वर थे, उन्हें किस प्रकार से सती के स्वरूप से मोहित कर दिया था। जो भगवान् हरि सदा ही ध्यान में मग्न रहा करते थे, यम वाले और यतियों में परम श्रेष्ठ थे तथा संसार से पूर्णतया विमुख रहा करते थे, उनको संक्षोभित कर दिया था। अथवा प्रजापति दक्ष की पत्नियों में परम शोभना सती किस रीति से समुत्पन्न थी तथा पत्नी के पाणिग्रहण करने में भगवान शम्भु ने कैसे अपना मन बना लिया था? प्राचीन समय में किस कारण से तथा किस रीति मे दक्ष प्रजापति के कोप से सती ने अपनी देह का त्याग किया था अथवा फिर वही सती गिरिवर हिमवान् की पुत्री के रूप में कैसे समुत्पन्न हुई? फिर उस देवी ने भगवान् कामदेव के शत्रु श्री शिव का आधा शरीर कैसे आहृत कर लिया था? हे द्विजश्रेष्ठ! यह सभी कथा आप हमारे समक्ष विस्तार के साथ वर्णित कीजिये। हे विपेन्द्र! हम यह जानते हैं कि आपके समान अन्य कोई भी संशयों का छेदन करने वाला नहीं है और भविष्य में भी न होगा सो अब आप यह समस्त वृतान्त बताने की कृपा कीजिए।

मार्कण्डेय जी कहा–आप समस्त मुनिगण अब श्रवण वह करिये जो कि मेरा गोपनीय से भी अधिक गोपनीय है तथा परम पुण्य-शुभ करने वाला, अच्छा ज्ञान प्रदान करने वाला तथा परम कामनाओं को पूर्ण करने वाला है। इसे प्राचीन समय में ब्रह्माजी ने महान् आत्मा वाले नारद जी से कहा था। इसके पश्चात् नारद जी ने भी बालखिल्यों के लिए बताया था। उन महात्मा बालखिल्यों ने यवक्रीत मुनि से कहा था और यवक्रीत मुनि ने असित नामक मुनि को यही बताया था। हे द्विजगणों! उन असित मुनि ने विस्तारपूर्वक मुझको बताया था और मैं अब पुरातन कथा को आप सब लोगों को श्रवण कराऊँगा। इसके पूर्व मैं इस जगत् के प्रति परमात्मा चक्रपाणि प्रभु को प्रणिपात करता हूँ। वे परमात्मा व्यक्त और अव्यक्त सत् स्वरूप वाले हैं–वहीं व्यक्ति के रूप से समन्वित हैं। उनका स्वरूप स्थूल है और सूक्ष्म रूप वाला भी है, वे विश्व के स्वरूप वाले वेधा हैं, वे परमेश नित्य हैं और उनका स्वरूप नित्य है तथा उनका ज्ञान भी नित्य है। उनका तेज निर्विकार है। वे विद्या और अविद्या के स्वरूप वाले हैं, ऐसे कालरूप उन परमात्मा के लिए नमस्कार है। परमेश्वर निर्मल हैं, विरागी हैं, व्यापी और विश्वरूप वाले हैं तथा सृष्टि (सृजन) स्थिति (पालन) और अन्त (संहार) के करने वाले हैं, उनके लिए प्रणाम है।

जिसका योगियों के द्वारा चिन्तन किया जाता है, योगीजन वेदान्त पर्यन्त चिन्तन करने वाले हैं, जो अन्तर में परम ज्याति के स्वरूप हैं उन परमेश प्रभु के लिए प्रणाम करता हूँ। लोकों के पितामह भगवान् ब्रह्माजी ने उनकी आराधना करके समस्त सुर-असुर और नर आदि की प्रजा का सृजन किया था। उन ब्रह्माजी से दक्ष जिनमें प्रमुख थे ऐसे प्रजापतियों का सृजन करके मरीचि, अत्रि, पुलह, अंगिरस, ऋतु, पुलस्त्य, वशिष्ठ, नारद, प्रचेतस, भृगु–इन सब दश मानस पुत्रों का उन्होंने सृजन किया था। उसी समय में उनके मानस से सुन्दर रूप वाली वरांगनाओं की समुत्पत्ति हुई थी। वह नाम से सन्ध्या विख्यात हुई थी, उसका सायं-सन्ध्या का यजन किया करते हैं। उस जैसी अन्य कोई भी दूसरी वरांगना देवलोक, मर्त्यलोक और रसातल में भी नहीं हुई थी। ऐसी समस्त गुण-गणों की शोभा से सम्पन्न तीनों कालों में भी नहीं हुई है और न होगी। वह स्वाभाविक सुन्दर और नीले केशों के भार से शोभित होती है। हे द्विज श्रेष्ठों! वह वर्षा ऋतु में मोरनी की भाँति विचित्र केशों के भार से शोभाशालिनी थी। आरक्त और मलिक तथा कर्णों पर्यन्त अलकों से इन्द्र के धनुष और बाल चन्द्र के सृदश शोभायमान थी। विकसित नीलकमल के समान श्याम वर्ण से संयुक्त दोनों नेत्र चकित हिरनी के समान चंचल और शोभित हो रहे थे। हे द्विज श्रेष्ठों! कानों तक फैली हुई स्वाभाविक चंचलता से संयुक्त परम सुन्दर दोनों भौहें थीं जो कामदेव के धनुष के सदृश नील थीं। दोनों भौहों के मध्य भाग से नीचे और निम्न भाग से विस्तृत और उन्नत नासिका थी जो मानों ललाट से तिल के पुण्य के ही समान लावण्य को द्रवित कर रही थी। उनका मुख रक्तकमल की आभा वाला और पूर्ण चन्द्र के तुल्य प्रभा से समन्वित था जो बिम्ब फल के सदृश अधरों की अरुणिमाओं और मनोहर शोभित हो रहा था। सौ सूर्य के समान और लावण्य के गुणों से परिपूर्ण मुख था। दोनों ओर से चिबुक (ठोड़ी) के समीप पहुँचने के लिए उसके दोनों कुच मानो समुद्यत हो रहे थे। हे विप्रगणों! उस सन्धया देवी के दोनों स्तवन राजीव (कमल) की कालिका के समान आकार वाले थे, पीन और उत्तुग्ङ निरन्तर रहने वाले थे। उन कुचों के मुख श्याम वर्ण के थे जो कि मुनियों के हृदय को भी मोहित करने वाले थे। सभी लोगों ने कामदेव की शक्ति के तुल्य ही उस सन्ध्या के मध्यभाग को देखा था जिसमें वलियाँ पड़ रही थीं तथा मध्य भाग ऐसा क्षीण था जैसे मुट्ठी में ग्रहण करने के योग्य रेशमी वस्त्र था।

उनके दोनों ऊरुओं का जोड़ा ऐसा शोभायमान हो रहा था दो ऊर्ध्वभाग में स्थूल था और करभ के सदृश विस्तृत था और थोड़ा झुका हुआ हाथी की सूँड़ के समान था। जो अँगुलियों के दल में संकल कुसुमायुध अर्थात् कामदेव के तुल्य ही दिखलाई दे रहा था। उस सुन्दर दर्शन वाली, शरीर की रोमावली से आवृत मुख पर, जिसके पसीने की बूँदें झलक रही थीं, जो दीर्घ नयनों वाली, चारुहास से समन्वित, तन्वी अर्थात् कृश मध्य भाग वाली जिसके दोनों कान परम सुन्दर थे, तीन स्थलों में गम्भीरता से युक्त तथा छः स्थानों से उन्नत उसको देखकर विधाता उठकर हृदगत को चिन्तन करने लगे थे। वे सृजन करने वाले दक्ष प्रजापति मानस पुत्र मरीचि आदि सब उस परवर्णिनी को देखकर समत्सुक होकर चिन्तन करने लगे थे। इस सृष्टि में इसका क्या कर्म होगा अथवा यह किसकी वर-वर्णिनी होगी। यही वे सभी बड़ी ही उत्सुकता से सोचने लगे थे। हे मुनि सत्तमों! इस तरह से चिन्तन करते हुए उन ब्रह्माजी के मन से वल्गु पुरुष आविर्भूत होकर विनिःसृत हो गया था।

वह पुरुष सुवर्ण के चूर्ण के समान पीली आभा से संयुक्त था, परिपुष्ट उसका वक्ष स्थल था, सुन्दर नासिका थी, सुन्दर सुडौल ऊरु जंघाओं वाला था, नील वेष्टित केशर वाला था, उसकी दोनों भौंहें जुड़ी हुई थीं, चंचल और पूर्ण चन्द्र के सदृश मुख से समन्वित था। कपाट के तुल्य विशाल हृदय पर रोमावली से शोभित था शुभ्र मातंग की सूँड़ के समान पीन तथा विस्तृत बाहुओं से संयुक्त था, रक्त हाथ, लोचन, मुख पाद और करों से उपद्रव वाला था। उस पुरुष का मध्य भाग क्षीण अर्थात् कुश था, सुन्दर दन्तावली थी वह हाथी के सदृश कन्धरा से समन्वित था। विकसित कमल के दलों के समान उनके नेत्र थे तथा केशर घ्राण से तर्पण था, कम्बू के समान ग्रीवा से युक्त, मीन के केतु वाला प्राँश और मकर वाहन था। पाँच पुरुषों के आयुधों वाला, वेगयुक्त और पुष्पों के धनुष से विभूषित था। कटाक्षों के पात के द्वारा दोनों नेत्रों की भ्रमित करता हुआ परम कान्त था। सुगन्धित वायु के भ्रान्त और श्रृंगार रस से सेविक इस प्रकार के उस पुरुष को देखकर वे सब मानस पुत्र जिनमें दक्ष प्रजापति प्रमुख थे, विस्मय से आविष्ट मन वाले होते हुए अत्यधिक उत्सुकता को प्राप्त हुए थे और मन विकार को प्राप्त हो गया था। 

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side businesses to set up from home

Happy days are here again – or so you might assume from a recent wave of optimistic reports about the economic outlook and rising consumer confidence. But while unemployment is down, the latest labour market figures reveal a surge in part-time jobs as employers remain anxious about long-term recovery prospects, suggesting it may not be time to hang out the bunting just yet.

With more of us working fewer hours and with a resulting earnings gap to close, there's arguably never been a better time to set up a business you can run in your spare time from home. Whether it's to help make ends meet, or to follow your passion, or maybe even both, we've asked the experts to come up with 50 practical and cheap ways to make some extra cash.

Our list may not be exhaustive, nor may it put you on the path to riches and early retirement, but hopefully it will get you thinking. And if you have any better ideas, let us know by emailing .

1 Antiques/collectibles dealing Know your stuff when it comes to certain kinds of collectibles? If so this can be a great way to make money from a hobby. Trading sites such as eBay make it easier than ever to reach your target market, according to Trent Hamm, author of US money-saving blog thesimpledollar.com. "I had some success with this myself in the past, trading cards and video games," he says.

2 Babysitting If you can spare a few evenings and know any parents desperate to get out, there are few simpler ways to make a few extra pounds.

3 Bed and breakfast Got a spare room? Live near somewhere of interest to tourists, or close to a student area? Note you'll almost certainly need planning, mortgage lender and health and safety approvals first.

4 Biscuit/sweet making Homemade biscuits and confectionery can be a great seller, says Hamm. "Bake and package them well, and try reselling through a local gift shop. People in your social network may buy batches for special occasions."

5 Cake making/decorating If you enjoy baking and have an artistic touch, making and decorating cakes can be a really satisfying way of earning extra money. "One of my mother's old friends does this and makes quite a bit on the side," says Hamm.

6 Car boot sales This is a part-time occupation that increases earnings and broadens horizons as you make sales and get to travel, says Emma Jones, author of Working 5 to 9: How to Start a Successful Business in your Spare Time, and founder of the website enterprisenation.com. "Consider selling specialist items and building a reputation for being the go-to person; offering your knowledge and expertise with the product can increase the price you're paid," she suggests.

7 Car cleaning/valeting Have a meticulous eye for detail and love to get things spotless? This could be a perfect side business for you. "Many people are quite happy to pay well for this service," points out Hamm.

8 Catering Formal qualifications are not strictly required for catering, which is more about producing and delivering good food. However, the organisational aspects may be easier after some instruction, such as a City & Guilds certificate (NVQ or other) in hospitality and catering.

9 Census distributor Every 10 years a census is held in England and Wales. The next one is in 2011, but you can register now to be considered for a range of related roles in your area, including collection and delivery. See censusjobs.co.uk.

10 Childcare There's great potential to earn extra money from looking after kids, but you'll need to adore children (not just your own), have boundless energy and patience and in many cases must satisfy Ofsted criteria.

Any adult who looks after another person's child for more than two hours on any one day in a location other than the child's home (so excluding most babysitters and nannies) needs to register with Ofsted – it's not a particularly complicated process but does include medical, criminal and domestic safety checks. Nannies can look after the children of up to two sets of parents, in one of their home environments, without being Ofsted-registered.

Failing to meet the criteria can land you in court, so check here for the full list of Ofsted restrictions.

11 Computer repairer/troubleshooter Despite the proliferation of technology in our lives, many people still find computers complicated to maintain and terrifying if they go wrong. If you have a reassuring manner and are not fazed by the inner workings of a PC, offer your services locally and let word of mouth do the rest. "I had some success doing thisin the past," says Hamm.

12 Cosmetics sales This is very much a social business activity so be prepared to spend lots of time meeting and talking to people. You'll be selling mainly by networking and often through parties in other people's homes, so an outgoing manner and immaculate personal presentation skills are essential.

13 Data entry Perhaps not the most thrilling of part-time pursuits, but data entry can nevertheless offer an extremely steady (not to mention flexible) source of extra income. You generally get paid for the number of entries you make rather than by the hour, which means you can go back and forth to it when you get a spare few minutes.

14 Dinner preparation "I recently met a woman who earned quite a bit of money as a very part-time chef," says Hamm. "Once a week, she would go to someone's house and prepare a homemade meal for their family, then do all the dishes and cleaning up. This gives the family plenty of together time, while earning her some cash in hand." If you love to cook, this can be a great extra earnings opportunity, but be prepared to put some effort into finding your customers.

15 Become a DJ It goes without saying that you need a deep love of music and an extensive collection of tunes before you can even consider DJing, but as much of the work is at evenings and weekends, it could make a perfect side business. Be ready to cater for a range of crowds and musical preferences, not just your passion. Learn the ropes by concentrating first on weddings and birthday parties or by doing roadie work for an established DJ, which will gain you useful contacts.

16 Be a doula Jasmine Birtles, the founder of websitemoneymagpie.com, says you can make between £12 and £15 an hour or £250-£500 for a birth by being a doula – a birth partner and post-birth partner. "If you've had a baby and you want to help new mothers, do a short course with Britishdoulas.co.uk and work locally," she says. "You do what a grandmother or sister might do for a new mum, such as giving moral support, helping around the house, caring for the baby and supporting the whole family."

17 Flower arranging Imagine doing what you love and getting paid for it, which is what this idea brings to mind. "The nature of the product means you're likely to cater to a local audience, so why not impress with a business card and delivery car adorned with flower power," suggests Jones of enterprisenation.com. "It'll turn heads and attract new business as you turn corners."

18 Garage/garden sales "One person I know holds a garage sale at their house almost every weekend during summer," says Hamm. "They get a lot of regular customers who stop by almost every weekend to see what's on sale. That person then goes to neighbours and friends and offers to sell their stuff for them, splitting the proceeds. People are usually happy to do this since they can get rid of unwanted items and earn a bit of money, too."

19 Gardening services "I've had requests from others for people willing to do this, so the demand is out there," says Hamm. "To put it simply, some people are willing to pay others to get a vegetable or flower garden started so that they can have access to ultra-fresh produce without doing all the legwork."

20 Making greetings cards If you're the kind of person who loves making things, why not try your hand at cards? Ask a local shopkeeper what kind sells best and follow their advice, working to a distinctive style of your own. Then try selling to family, friends and local businesses. Be mindful of material costs and time taken though, as wastage can be expensive in such a low-value product.

21 Handyman services Know your way round a toolbox? Let people know that they can call you for little repair jobs, relatively straightforward DIY tasks such as putting up shelves or assembling flat-pack furniture. "You'd be amazed at the simple things people are willing to pay others to help them with," says Hamm.

22 Host and teach foreign students "This is a great way of renting your room without getting stuck with the flatshare from hell," says Birtles. "Foreign students don't usually stay longer than a couple of months at a time, so if they're annoying at least you know they'll go soon."

Usually the deal is B&B, but sometimes you need to give them an evening meal too. Get in touch with your nearest English language schools and let them know you have a room to rent, Birtles advises. The website idiom.co.uk has a list of schools in the UK. You can make up to £200 a week depending on where you live.

23 House cleaning "This is an idea you can start yourself, or consider being part of a house-cleaning franchise such as Molly Maid where you have the benefit of being your own boss as well as the support of a central team," says Jones.

24 Ironing/laundry services "Even in these cash-strapped times, some people hate ironing so much they're willing to pay others to do it (at least in the posh parts of town)," says Birtles of moneymagpie.com, who suggests either registering with domestic agencies such asmrshunts.co.uk or setting up your own local service.

"Check out the competition, see how much they charge, and undercut. Either work for an hourly rate, a fee per item or a fee per lb," she says. You should get between £8 and £12 per hour, between 50p and £1 per item or between 50p and £1 per lb of clothes, depending on where you work."

25 Jewellery selling Never mind Tupperware – if you have jewellery you no longer wear or want, try organising a party to sell it, says Jones. "Websites that organise these parties, such as ounces2pounds.co.uk, are going great guns in signing up ladies who want to earn extra income in their spare time," she says.

26 Knitting/alteration/sewing services A big growth area, as more people come to appreciate the value in repairing and patching up clothes. If you're handy with a sewing machine, there's serious money to be made. Once you get known locally, word-of-mouth should do the rest.

27 Leaflet distributing Delivering leaflets to people's houses could be a profitable and healthy way to spend a few spare hours a week. Call into your local shops and restaurants to see if they need help distributing flyers, menus and so on.

28 Market research Get paid for your opinions by signing up withsarosresearch.com and taking part in focus groups, suggests Birtles. "You get between £50-£100 cash, plus food and drink for saying what you think about products or services for a few hours. Or be the one asking the questions. Ipsos Mori offers flexible hours to people willing to do phone interviews or knock on doors to ask people questions. You make between £8-£10 an hour on average."

29 Musical performance If you can play a musical (especially orchestral) instrument to a high enough standard, know a few choice solo pieces and look presentable, spread the word locally – weddings and other formal functions can be a lucrative source of performance income.

30 Online surveys It's possible to make pocket money by filling in internet surveys – though moneymagpie.com's Birtles advises caution, as there are hundreds of bogus companies on the net. "Toluna, Ciao!, Lightspeed Panel, and Valued Opinions are all pukka," she says. "You make between 50p and £5 per survey. Click here for more information and a list of genuine survey companies.

31 Online trading Sites such as eBay and Amazon make it easy for people to dabble in e-commerce. "Start with a clearout of your attic," suggests Dan Wilson, author of Make Serious Money on eBay. "If you start to sell other goods, focus on things you can get hold of easily, or are passionate about. And have an eye on the Christmas market: think about what will be selling well in a few months' time."

32 Personal organiser/assistant If you are good at filing and managing tasks, and know someone who isn't, why not offer to share your expertise with them for a small consideration? Being organised is a valuable skill, and whether it's for a small company or a friend there may be more of a market for this than meets the eye. Ask around friends or look on listings websites including gumtree.com.

33 Personal shopping "This is an idea that nicely taps into our desire for personal service," says Jones. "There's also potential to niche this business, for example focusing on time-starved ladies. Making it niche brings down marketing costs and increases customer loyalty."

34 Personal tutoring If you are a part-time teacher or are perhaps taking a career break to look after young children, this can be a great way to make a little money while keeping your syllabus knowledge up to date. Try advertising locally or registering with an agency like Personal Tutors.

35 Pet grooming "Many people loathe bathing their pets and trimming their hair – I know I do," says Hamm. "Pet groomers can do this for a small fee – a perfect job for a person who loves dogs and cats."

36 Pet minding/walking "Dog-walking is a fantastic earner if you love animals and enjoy the outdoors," says Birtles. "On average you can make between £10-£15 per hour, per dog." Get good and you can be walking two or more at a time. Offer pet-minding as well and you can make a whole business out of it. "You'll need public liability insurance in case something happens to the dogs or members of the public," she warns.

37 Online referrals expert There's money to be made from your email address book: a surprising number of companies will pay you if you can persuade your friends to become their customers. Check out the websiterefermehappy.com, an online matching service where you can get referral bonuses from companies like Sky, Virgin Media and First Direct.

38 Rent out your stuff You can rent pretty much anything now, although space is still the most profitable "item", says Birtles. "Rent your driveway on parkatmyhouse.com if you live somewhere popular, or your possessions from a baby bath to your lawnmower on sites likerentnotbuy.co.uk and Zilok ," she advises. "Currently there are more items on offer than requests to lease things, but it's worth a try."

39 Slivers of Time OK, this isn't strictly a business idea, butsliversoftime.com matches people with a few spare hours here and there with part-time work. Register with the site, then put your spare time on the calendar. Your hours are sent to local agencies and businesses who regularly use part-time workers.

40 Selling ad space on a personal blog This is not a big money-earner to start with but could be if you work at it, reckons Birtles. "Set up your own blog (do it for free with blogger.com) and fill it with great writing, photos, videos and anything else you're passionate about," she advises. "Get ads automatically through Google Adsense and make a few pence every time someone clicks on an ad."

Do book reviews and make money selling the books through Amazon's affiliate programme.

41 Scrapbook making Many people dream of having beautiful scrapbooks, says Hamm. "They collect all the materials they want to go in them, but never follow through on the actual creation. You can step in here – take their ideas and materials and assemble a scrapbook for them."

42 Selling lost luggage Auction houses round the country routinely sell off lost luggage that the airlines have failed to match with their owners. "For example, Greasby's in south London sells off BA's lost items every week," points out Birtles. "You bid blind on bags that have had the expensive stuff removed (cameras, iPods etc) and then sell the bag and contents on eBay or at a car boot sale. Bags generally go for between £5-£50. Your profit depends on what's in them!"

43 Translating If you are fluent in a second language, translation services are in demand as UK companies look overseas for new sales. But be warned: it's a serious business and you'll need professional qualifications from an accredited body (such as the Institute of Translation and Interpreting or the Chartered Institute of Linguists) and professional indemnity insurance before setting up.

For public service translating work you'll also need a diploma in public service interpreting law, a licence from the National Register of Public Service Interpreters and to be registered with an approved interpreting body.

"Once qualified, register with translation sites such as lingo24.com andlanguage123.com and grow from there," suggests Jones.

44 "Ugly" modelling If you look, shall we say, different, you could make money in ads, photoshoots or appearances through the Ugly model agency. "People with phenomenal tattoos, piercings or just very "interesting" faces can make thousands doing commercials, videos or corporate appearances," says Birtles.

45 Vegetable growing If you have some suitable garden space and the requisite green fingers, focus on one vegetable and sell the excess to local greengrocers and at farmers' markets. "My father does this with tomatoes and earns some solid extra money in the summer," says Hamm.

46 Virtual assistant "Many ultra-busy professionals appreciate having someone who can check and answer their email, organise task lists for them, update their calendars and so on, with minimal interaction," says Hamm. "You can provide this service from home with a good internet connection."

47 Website designing An increasingly competitive field as the software needed becomes more and more mainstream. However if you have a good eye for design generally and formal training, it can be a profitable side business.

48 Wedding/social photographer You'll need a website or blog to showcase your work, but if you're confident that your photography is good enough, there's no reason why you can't do wedding/function work professionally. Do your homework though – you'll need to take charge of arranging people into groups and know all the classic poses expected of the occasion.

49 Wedding planning If you're one of those people who can't help but flip through bridal magazines and daydream about nuptial arrangements, this might be perfect for you. "A great way to get started is to develop a website on the topic, get to know people online and offer your services to the community," says Hamm.

50 Writing letters to magazines You can make between £10-£200 for a good letter or photograph to a weekly magazine such as Take a Break or Pick Me Up, suggests Birtles. "If you have a really juicy story you can make even more, and you don't even have to write it, she says. Women's magazines particularly are usually desperate for items for their letters' pages, and even quite tame stuff often gets in.

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