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Excerpts on Lakshmi Devi from Scriptures
Hreescha te Lakhmischa ahoraatre paarshve Nakshatraani rupam Ashvanou vyaaktam, Ishtam manishaana, amuym manishaana sarvam manishaana/
Devi Lakshmi and Lord Hari are the illustrious and Sacred Couples; they are forms of the glittering Stars on the Skies and Ashvini Devatas are their mouth; this being so, may they bless us with the fulfillment of all our materialistic wishes and spiritual aspirations! – Vaajasaneeya Samhita , Shukla Yajurveda.
Playful swings of Devi Lakshmi the Goddess of Fortune are as per the heart beats of Lord Vishnu the Preserver of Life. Indeed, as one sows so does one reaps is the quintessence of Existence! This is what pleases Bhaagya-Bhogya-Yogya Lakshmi! This certainly pleases the endless Forms of the Unknown viz. Tri Murtis, Tri Shaktis, and so on which are but the reflections of Antaratma or One’s Conscience namely Paramatma! This is the fulfillment of ‘varchas-aayush-aarogyam-avidyaacchadanam-dhaanyam -dhanam -pashum- bahuputra laabham-shata samvatsaram-deerghamaayu’! May the Ashta Lakshmi swarupa of ‘Adi-Lakshmi-Dhanya Lakshmi-Dhairya Lakshmi-Gaja Lakshmi-Santaana Lakshmi- Vijaya Lakshmi- Vidya Lakshmi-Dhana Lakshmi’ bestow fullfillment of ‘iham’ or the worldly aspirations and ‘param’ or there after of ‘karma yoga’to ascend the higher plane to the ‘jnaana yoga’ and far further to Moksha Yoga’.Indeed, Lord Vishnu is the Owner and Preserver of One’s Life Boat being ever present in the journey and stays put firmly as the Antaratma the Inner Conscience, but the Navigator of Life is the Self the ‘Jeeva’ as per the insruments and the engine of the boat in the form of Panchendriyas and the Mind of the Driver. The role of Devi Lakshmi is the Enforcer of the Swing of Fortune sitting pretty on the swing! My reverential salutations to you the Mother of Universe! Maha Lakshmi! You were materialised fom the Ocean, with magnificent eyes that are resplendent and are like opened up Lotus flowers occupying the chest of Vishnu; You are the hall-mark of Purity and the personification of propitiousness. You are the Siddhi, Swaha, Swadha, Sudha, Sandhya, Ratri, Prabha, Bhuti, Medha, Shraddhaa and Sarasvati.You are the Yagna Vidya, Maha Vidya, Guhya Vidya, and the Provider of Atma Vidya. You are the ‘Anveekshani’ or the Darshana Shastra, Trayi or the Form of Three Vedas viz. Ruk-Yajur and Sama; the ‘Vaarta’or the three most significant professions of human beings viz. Krishi / Agriculture, Goraksha or the security of Cows,Vanijya or business and Danda Niti or the Art of Defence and Attack. You are the Form of ‘Saumyata’ or of poise and composure; since You are ever-present; You are also the most charming and esteemed. Are you not the singular woman sporting a mace called Kaumudi to defend the virtuous and punish the Evil! You are the Yagnamayi whom Yogis and Maharshis pray to and cogitate about. It is by your grace and magnanimity that the whole World got revived after its erstwhile destruction and is looking full and on-going. With your kindness that all the human beings and their families are fine and the womanfolk, children, households, and existence in general is contented and smooth enough with ‘Dhana-Dhaanyas’. Once your merciful looks are available, persons are healthy, wealthy, contented without enemies and hindrances.You are indeed the mother of all and vishnu is the father, controlling and preserving the ‘charaachara Jagat’ comprising the moveable and immoveable Benigs. You are our self-esteem, our Treasure-Hold, Anna Bhaandaar or Food-reservoir, the entire house-hold, our well being and families; do keep us safe and satisfied Devi! Those whom you leave away, their truthfulness, stability, virtuosity are all deserted instantly. Your benevolence would turn a miserable being surfeit with riches, a vicious entity into an ideal being worthy of reputation, courage, and perfection. A remote glance of yours would bring about a mind-blowing transformation of a human being. Even Brahma woud fail in esimating your qualities and how else marginal beings could possibly do! Mother, my earnest prayer to you is to bless me and never ever leave me enven by mistake!
Indra’s prayer to Lakshmi Devi as He regained His Indratwa:
‘My reverential salutations to you the Mother of Universe! Maha Lakshmi! You were materialised fom the Ocean, with magnificent eyes that are resplendent and are like opened up Lotus flowers occupying the chest of Vishnu; You are the hall-mark of Purity and the personification of propitiousness. You are the Siddhi, Swaha, Swadha, Sudha, Sandhya, Ratri, Prabha, Bhuti, Medha, Shraddhaa and Sarasvati.You are the Yagna Vidya, Maha Vidya, Guhya Vidya, and the Provider of Atma Vidya. You are the ‘Anveekshani’ or the Darshana Shastra, Trayi or the Form of Three Vedas viz. Ruk-Yajur and Sama; the ‘Vaarta’or the three most significant professions of human beings viz. Krishi / Agriculture, Goraksha or the security of Cows,Vanijya or business and Danda Niti or the Art of Defence and Attack. You are the Form of ‘Saumyata’ or of poise and composure; since You are ever-present; You are also the most charming and esteemed. Are you not the singular woman sporting a mace called Kaumudi to defend the virtuous and punish the Evil! You are the Yagnamayi whom Yogis and Maharshis pray to and cogitate about. It is by your grace and magnanimity that the whole World got revived after its erstwhile destruction and is looking full and on-going. With your kindness that all the human beings and their families are fine and the womanfolk, children, households, and existence in general is contented and smooth enough with ‘Dhana-Dhaanyas’. Once your merciful looks are available, persons are healthy, wealthy, contented without enemies and hindrances.You are indeed the mother of all and vishnu is the father, controlling and preserving the ‘charaachara Jagat’ comprising the moveable and immoveable Benigs. You are our self-esteem, our Treasure-Hold, Anna Bhaandaar or Food-reservoir, the entire house-hold, our well being and families; do keep us safe and satisfied Devi! Those whom you leave away, their truthfulness, stability, virtuosity are all deserted instantly. Your benevolence would turn a miserable being surfeit with riches, a vicious entity into an ideal being worthy of reputation, courage, and perfection. A remote glance of yours would bring about a mind-blowing transformation of a human being. Even Brahma woud fail in esimating your qualities and how else marginal beings could possibly do! Mother, my earnest prayer to you is to bless me and never ever leave me enven by mistake!
Shri Suktam
Harih Om/ Hiranyavarnaam harinim suvarnarajatasrujaam, Chandraa hiranyamaheem Lakshmim jatavdo ma aa vaha/ Taam ma aa vaha jaatavedo Lakshmeemanapagaamaneem, yasyaa hiranmayam vindeyam gaamashvam purushaanaham/ Ashvapurvaam rathamadhyaam hastinaadhaa praboddhineem, Shriyam Devimupahvaye Shrimaa Devirjushataam/ Kaam sosmitaam hiranya praakaaraam – aardhraam jvalantim truptaam tarpayantim Padma-sthitaam padma- varnaam taami-hop-havye Sriyam chandraam prabhaa-saam yash-saa jvalantim Sriyam loke dev-jushtaa- mudaaraam Taam padmini-mim sharanam-aham pra-padhye a-Lakshmir-me nashyan-taam tvaam vrune Aaditya-varane tapaso-adhi-jato vanas-pati-stava-vruksho-atha bilvaha Tasya phalaani tapasaa-nudantu maayaa-anta- raayaa-scha baahyaa a-Lakshmi-hi upeiy-tu maam Dev-sakha-ha kirti-scha maninaa saha Praadur-bhuto su-raashtre-asmin kirtim-vrudhim dadaatu me Kshutpi-paasaa-malaam jyeshtaam -a-Lakshmim naash-yaamya-ham Abhutim-a-samrudhim cha sarvaa -nirnud me gruhaat/ Gandha-dvaaraam duraa-dharshaam nitya-pushtaam karishi-nim Ishvariim sarva-bhutaanaam taami-hop-havye Sriyam/ Manasaha kaam-maa-kutim vaacha-ha satya-mashi-mahi Pashu-naam rup-manya-sya mayi Srihi srayataam yasha-ha /Kardamen prajaa bhutaa mayi sambhava kardam Sriyam vaasaya me kule Maataram padma-maali-nim /Aapaha srajantu snig-dhaani chiklit vasa me gruhe ni cha Devim Maataram Sriyam vaasaya me kule/ Aardhraam push-karinim pushtim pinglaam padma maali-nim Chandraam hiranya-mayim Lakshmim jaat-vedo ma aavah /Aaardhraam yah-kari-nim yashtim suvarna-aam hem-maali-nim Suryaam hiranya-mayim Lakshmim jaat-vedo ma aavaha/Taam ma aavaha jaat-vedo Lakshmi-man-pagaa-nim, Yasyaam hiranyam pra-bhutam gaavo-daasyo-asvaan vindeyam purushaan-ham/ Yaha shuchi-hi preyato bhut-vaa juhu-daayaa-jya-manva-ham Suktam panch-dashar-cham cha Sri-kaam-ha satatam japet/ Sarsij-nilaye saroj-haste dhaval-taraam-shuk gandh-maalya-shobhe Bhagavati-Hari-vallabhe-mano-gne tri-bhuvan-bhuti-kari prasid mahyam/ Asva-daaye gow-daaye dhan-daaye mahaa-dhane Dhanam me jush-taam Devi sarva kaamaa-scha dehi me/ Putra poutra-dhanam dhaanyam hastya-asvaadig-veratham Prajaanaam bhavasi Maataa aayush-mantam karotu me/ Dhanam-agnir dhanam-vaayur dhanam-Suryo dhanam-vasuha Dhanam-Indro Brihaspatir-Varunam dhanam-ishvarou/ Vainate Somam piba Somam pibatu vrutra-haaSomam dhana-asya Somino mahyam dadaatu Sominaha/Na krodho na cha maatsarya na lobho na-ashubhaa mati-hi Bhavanti krun-punyaa-naam bhaktaa-naam Sri-suktam japet/ Padmaanane padma karu padma sambha-ve,Tanme bhajasi Padma-aakshi yen soukhyam labhaa-mya-ham/Vishnu patnim ksha-maam Devim Maadhavim Maadhava priyaam Vishnu priya sakhim Devim namaam-yam nyut Vallabhaam/ Mahaa Lakshamim cha vidmahe Vishnu patnim cha dhi-mahi Tanno Lakshami-hi prachodayaat/ Padmaa-nane padmini padma-patre padma-priye padma-dalaa-yataaxi Vishva-priye vishva-manonu-kule tvat-paad-padma-mayi san-nidhat-sva/ Aanand kardama-ha Sri-daha chiklit iti vi-srutaa-haa Rushaya-ha Sri-va-putraas-cha mayii Sri-Devi devtaa, runa-rogaadi daaridhra-yam paapam cha ap-mrutya-va-ha Bhaya-shouk-manas-taapaa nash-yantu mama sarva-daa/Sri-varcha-strayam-aayuyshyam-aarogya maavidhaat-pav-maanam mahi-yate Dhanam-dhaanyam pashum bahu putra-laabham shat samvat-saram dirgham- aayu-hu Aum Sri Mahaa-Kaali Mahaa-Lakshmi Mahaa-Saraswati Trigunaatmikaa Chandikaaye namah/
Agni Deva! we invoke you for Devi Maha Lakshmi who is resplendent with golden jewellery of glitering yellow and silver glows as Chandra the personification of wealth. Agni Deva, through your grace, may Devi Lakshmi provide as prosperity, excellent progeny, cattle and auspiciousness. (3-4) May Shri Lakshmi who has a line of horses in her front, a series of chariots in the middle, and with trumpets of elephants, as the insignia of clestial glory. May that unique grace bless us. She is the embodiment of absolute bliss with natural and perpetual smile on her face and though of molten gold with her residence (just from the milky ocean) who is blazing with splendour, and is the embodiment of the fulfillment of being the ovean of milk! She is indeed seated on lotus and is as attractive like a lotus. (5-6) Maha Lakshmi! You possess ‘Chandra Prabhasa’or the tranquility of Moon and the radiance of a far reaching repute in the worlds as the Seat of Prosperity, as a Padmini; we all surrender as being the antithesis of Alakshmi and being the Singular High Seat of Opulence! Being of Aditya Varna or of the Splendour of Aditya Deva, your ‘Tapomahima’ is so surfiet that like the leaves of Vanaspati Vriksha tend to spread even remote signs of ‘Alakshmi’ or misery and misforune. May such bael fruirs destroy even the signs poverty and replace with affluence. Besides, may the evils of hunger and thirst be driven away at once! (7-8) ‘Upaitumaam Devasakhah keertischa!’ I am indeed born in a ‘karma bhumi’ of glory as a citizen of a Blessed Backgound or heritage being intimate as a ‘Deva Sakha’. May my worthy and close Devas like Kubera, the Lord of wealth and fame extinguish ‘kshutpipaasa’ hunger and thirst, depression and desolation. May Devi Lakshmi eradicate Alakshmi by roots-tree-and sour fruits from each house hold. (9-10)Gandhadwaaraam duraadharshaam nityapushtaam karishineem/ Devi Lakshmi! You are the gateway to ‘sugandha’ of plentiful sandalwood trees akin to the perception of one’s desires and ambitions as reflected with the abundance of cow’s wealth and plentiful cattle as the symbol of contentment and ideal human existence which truly verges into divinity! Thus may Lakshmi, the Goddess of Wealth and Virtue lead us to the frontiers of ‘sugandha’, ‘nitya pushti’ and ‘Ishvaratva’! (11-12) Devi Lakshmi! Your next generation as the progeny Maharshi Kardama and the further lineage is certainly the residing seat of Wealth as Yourself in the ancestral link. May we therefore possess the privilege of garlanding You with a fragrant string of lotuses at our ancestral home! Chiklita Maharshi! may we entreat you too to grace such an abundantly auspicious moment when our incredible function arrives.! (13-14) Our invocation to Maha Lakshmi via Agni Deva! She is of the tranquility of Chandra, luster of gold, brilliance of Bhaskara, the symbol of fragrance! She weilds a powerful staff of sovereignty and Control of Supremacy,ever resplendent of wealth and glory! You are the lotus resident, saluted by celestial elephant hordes, with garlands of lotuses lifted up for decoration. Maha Lakshmi! You are the karuna swarupa, hema maalni, of golden hues like of Surya!(15-17) Jaataveda! We invoke you to seek Lakshmi again and again as She is the embodiment of abundance of grace, plentifulness, prospetity, cattle, horses, servants, followers, residensces, and longevity and glory! Mother Lakshmi, your ‘bahyanatara shuchi’ is unparalleled; your ‘Sixteen Shri Suktas’ are such as their constant recitals reap enormous benefits of far reaching impact! Padmaasane, Padmoru, Padmaakshi, Padma sambhave! Devi! You are of Padmaasana or Seated straight with folded legs as the Parama Yogini! You are Padmaakshi or of Lotus Eyes of glittering Purity! Pamdmasambhave! or the Lotus Manifestation of Outstanding Clarity and Transparency! We are literally swimming in the constant flows of Abundance and Contentment! 18-19) ‘Ashwadaayi, Godaayi, Dhana Daayi, Maha Dhane!’ Devi! You are Supreme Provider of numberless horses, cows,and prosperity as you are the True Embodiment of Prosperity Yourself! You are Aishwarya the Seat of Opulence as the Acme of Material Fulfilment! Indeed you certainly are the Sarva Kaama Pradaaayani or the Unique Bestower of of Aspirations! 20-21) ‘Putrapouitra dhanam dhaanyam hastaashvaadigave ratham’: the meaning is self explanatory since Maha Lakshmi is the unique giver of excellent sin and grand sons, liquid cash, plentiful crops, elephants-horses-cattle and most significantly the blessing of longevity to enjoy the desires. ‘Dhanamagnirdhanam Vaayur dhanam Suryo Danam Vasuh, Dhanamindro Brihaspatir Varunaam Dhanamastute! Dhanam or Devi Lashmi assumes all the Forms of Devas like Agni-Vaayu-Surya-Vasu Devatas-Indra Deva-Brihaspati and Varuna! 22-23: With Maha Vishnu in the heart of any human, Garuda Deva the illustrious son of Vinata Devi and the renowned carrier of Vishnu, would be pleased to facilitate the celestial Soma Juice that bestows Eternity within the Inner-Consciousness; indeed this celestial Soma would instantly destroy the inner enemies of kaama-krodha-moha-mada-lobha-matsaryas! Mother Lakshmi, it is only you the bestower of such unparalleled Soma! The only manner that the ‘shadvargas’ or the six human weaknesses and shortcomings could be nullified is therefore to earnestly recite and absorb the Shri Sukta the fabulous! Devi! You are the Vibhavari or the radiance of Lightnings emerging of pouring rains; this is the offshoot of what copious crops are generated and thus the emergence of Life and existence of all Beings! 24-25: ‘Sarasija nilaye sarojahaste dhavala taraamshuka gandha maalya shobhe!’Devi! You are of resident of glittering Lotus; Lotus Handed; the essence of purity and white cleanliness of magnificent fragrance.Bhagavati! Hari Vallabha! Tribhuvana Sundari! Our earnest saluations to you Maha Devi! Vishnu Patni! Kshama Devi who is the symbol of Patience and Forgiveness! Madhavi -Madhava Priya! Maha Lakshmi!Standing on a lotus flower with grace with wide hips and lotuslike eyes, deep navel indicative of supreme conduct and character, with full blossomed bosom indicative of abundance and compassion, you are slightly bent forward to bless the prostrating crowds of devotees even as she is receiving them. 26-27: Devi Maha Lakshmi! While celestial elephant kings are performing ‘abhisheka’ of amrita the divine nectar from either side, do kindly grace our rest house and accept our prostrations. Mother Lakshmi! As being surfiet with your benign flashes of your side line glances of your graceful eyes, Lord Brahma, Indra Deva and Gangaadhara Parama Shiva too got mesmerised and got enriched by themselves! Devi Lakshmi! As You smile softly, three bhuvanas get mesmerised with joy and enrichment of their inner selves. May we be blessed with richness and abundance of inner contentment as we are never tired of praising your benevolence and generosity as we praise you as ‘Siddha Lakshmi- Moksha Lakshmi-Jaya Lakshmi-Saraswati-Shri Lakshmi-Vara Lakshmi’! [Ashta Lakshmis are Adi Lakshmi-Dhanya Lakshmi-Dhairya Lakshmi-Gaja Lakshmi-Santaana Lakshmi-Vijaya Lakshmi-Vidya Lakshmi-Dhana Lakshmi] 28-31: Maha Lakshmi! Betsow us very generously ‘ Shri Varchas-Aayush-Aarogyam-Avidyacchdanam-Dhaanyam-Dhanam-Pashum-Bahuputra laabham-Shata samvatsaram- and even beyond as deerghamaatush! Our sincere commendations are countless as ‘Padmapriye, Padmini- Padmahaste-Padmaalaye-Padmadalaayataakshi- Vishvapriye-Vishnu manonukuule! May your sacred and soft feet be drawn to our hands closely and to our hearts’s contentment! Devi! You are the Household Goddesss in Trilokas of Bhur-Bhuva-Swah! Mukunda Priya! Grant us abundant benevolence- auspiciousness in all formats and chaturvidha purushardhas of Dharma-Artha- Kaama- Moksha.32-31) As ever commended and worshipped by MaharshisAnanda Kardamaadis, may Devi Lakshmi bless us to extinguish ‘
runa-rogaadi daaridhra-yam paapam cha ap-mrutya-va-ha Bhaya-shouk-manas-taapaa nash-yantu mama sarva-daa/Sri-varcha-strayam-aayuyshyam-aarogya maavidhaat-pav-maanam mahi-yate Dhanam-dhaanyam pashum bahu putra-laabham shat samvat-saram dirgham- aayu-hu Aum Sri Mahaa-Kaali Mahaa-Lakshmi Mahaa-Saraswati Trigunaatmikaa Chandikaaye namah/’
Excerpts on Devi Sarasvati from Scriptures
Manikya veenaam upalaalayanteem madaalasaam manjula vaagvilaasaam, mahendra neela dyuti komalaangim Maatanga Kanyaam manasaa smaraami/ Chaturbhuje chandrakalaa vatamse, kuchonnate kumkuma raaga sone, pundrekshu paashaankusha pushpa baanahaste namaste jagadaika maataa/ Maataa marakata shyaama Maatangi mada shalini, kuryaat kataaksham kalyaani kadamba vana vaasini/ Jaya Maatanga tanaye,jaya neelotpala dyuthe jaya sangeeta rasike, jaya leela shuka priye!
Devi Saraswati the illustrious gift to Sage Matanga excelling in one of the Maha Vidyas! you are the icon of everplayful musical Veena stunningly studded with lustrous gems! You are the symbol of feminity of exhubarant grace and exraordinary beauty! You are the personification of auspiciousness while spreading four arms, moon shine smile, firm and high chested physical charm, carrying mesmerising flowers of intoxicating smell, juicy sugarcane, defensive rope to instantly arrest the evil, an arrow to terminate the malevolent, a mighty goad to suppress immorality and a pundarika or conchshell to warn the wicked! Bless me Mother with your sweet and merciful looks from the benign eye corners even being seated cosily in the unique forest of fragrant and ripe fruits of sweet lusciousness! Victory to you the Universal Mother Matangi even as you resemble the singular blue lotus, ever blissful with celestial musical notes of Veena and carrying a green parrot for mere play and pastime! [Matangi is the Tantrik Maha Vidya-the Goddess of music, arts and knowledge.
Saraswati in essence is Vaak- Vidya-Vigjnana being the bridge from the Deep Oceans of Samsara- Illusion-Falsity-Ignorance to Sadhana- Nigraha-Medhas-Awareness and thereafter the Initial Illumination- the Path of Divinity or the ‘Deva Yana’-passage to Urthwa Lokas-and finally the Bliss of Realisation of the Equation with or the Reflection of Anraratma as Paramatma!Saraswati has no barriers of age-sex-materialism-and the pulls and pushes of ‘Samsaara’; but only the Path of Dharma. Dharmaacharana- Dharma Prachaara- Dharma Paripaalana are the watch words of Saraswati. The tools utilised by Saraswati are Vaak- Vidya-Vigjnaana. The Dharmic Apparatus is to lead from Worldly Darkness to Celestial Radiance to Everlasting Joy; albeit in several stages: the Power of Speech-Mental Caliber-Sankalpa or Determination-Chitta or sturdy Self Belief or Will Power-Meditation or deep contemplation-Dhaayana- Vgjnaana or Enlightenment/ critical self appraisal-balam or physical strength supported by food further propped up by Pancha Bhutas – Smara or Memory power-aasha or aspiration-Praana or Conscious Self or Pragjnatwa- ‘manute’ or deep perception with faith-nishtha or commitment coupled with karyaacharana. Once any person believes and gets convinced that he – or any Individual Self for that matter -happens to be the spring boat of the Praana, hope, memory, space, water, form and look, strength , food, reasoning and intelligence, mental power, speech, knowledge, rites and all such abilities, then indeed that Self himself or each and every Self like himself, is certainly, nay undoubtedly, the Supreme Self himself with all the accomplishments. He is a symbol of Purity, purity of food, nature, memory, heart, thought, and action. Then the spiritual freedom to escape from darkness, impurities of ignorance, attachment to desire and to speed up the bandwagon of knowledge, mind, thought, resolve, meditation and introspection to discover Truth finally as Himself! Once that stage is reached, then he becomes ‘Bhagavan’ or God like and He knows the source and cause of Existence, its termination, the entries and exits, as also the knowledge and ignorance of Reality.
Vidya Tatwa : Indeed knowledge is limitless and as much one acquires, so much more remains. Maha Maya obstructing the clear vision of Pure Consciousness due to ‘Shad Kanchukas’ or Six Layers / Coverings and ‘Malaas’ or defilements of Aaanava, Maayiya and Karma nature, being the inner most, the interior and the outer parts of the husk that cover in three layers before obtaining the pure grain or antaratma with neither desirable nor the totally free from the stains of the pristine Self! Pancha Bhutas, Panchendriyas and Tri-Tatwas viz. Manas, Buddhi and Ahamkara total up to Prakriti. Prakriti is the totality of the 23 products, each produced from the cause and effect cycle and together Prakriti and Purusha activise the entite universe compose of 36 tatwas!From Prakriti upto Earth, creation encases ‘Chaitanyam’ or the Pure Conscious -ness by ‘dehabhava’ as concealed, just as chaff covering the food grain. This Chaitanyam is covered by Maya aided by indriyas or the sense organs or ‘kalaas’ to specific gross physical elements. Thus the process of Creation is composed by seven steps beginning from Shiva-Shakti-Sadashiva-Ishwara-shudda vidya-maya and kala the creativity. Vigjnaana is a flow of Self Awareness and is conceptual only. Kashmiri Shaivism feels that Supreme Consciousness is possible by ‘sambhavopaaya’ or ‘icchopaaya’ or as coincidental or as being desirable. It may be like the myth of a rope as a snake. But surely Maha Maya has no role in this illusion. Finally one concludes that the Self Consiousness and Supreme Consciousness are true mirror images since the former has no role in the pluses and minuses of the mortal bodies as per their panchendriyas, mind, buddhi sustained by vital foce praana and the Individual Concsiousness is a mute spectator only and surely the photo image of Paramatma!
Excerpts on Durga Devi from Scriptures
Durga Sukta:
Jaatavedase sunavaama Somam-araateyato ni dahaati Vedah, sa nah parshadati Durgaani Vishvaa naaveva sindhum duritaatiratygnih/
To that sarvajna Agnideva called Jaataveda the origin of Vedas who is contented by the fire of vedic knowledge alone, besides sacrifices within and without the mortal self and liberate from all the sins of life, discontentments and the bondage of the world. [Rig Veda I.99 as also Maha Narayanopanishad II.
1. Taam-Agni-Varnnaam Tapasaa Jvalanteem Vairocaneem Karma-Phaleshu Jushttaam, Durgaam Deveegum Sharannyamaham Prapadye su-tarasi tarase namah/
To that Duraga Devi! I seek refuge as you are fiery and the seat of might and glory yet by your very name Durga you are inaaccessible and insurmountable!; ‘Sharanam aham’- by sincere prostration and earnest fall at your golden feet to mercifully ferry my boat of existence across this Ocean of perils.
2. Agne tvam paarayaa navyo asmaan svastibhirati durgani Vishvaa, puushcha Prithvee bahulaa na urvee bhavaa tokaaya tanayaaya sham yoh/
Agni Deva the facet of Durga! you who are always worthy of praises for carrying one across this Samsara; Please do mercifully navigate us too by carrying us the mortal selves and cross these existences of ours across the samsara with merciful considerstion towards happiness and contentment. [ Rigveda I.189.2 as also Taittireeya Samhita I.i.14.12; Taittereeya Brahmana II.viii.2 & Naaraayana Upanishad II.
3.Vishvaani no Durgahaa Jaatavedah sindhum na naavaa duritaatipatipashi, agne atrivanmanasaa grunaano-smaakam bodhyavitaa tanuunaam/
Jaatavedaa the originator of Vedas! Do mercifully demolish our grave sins and tribulations to safety and fulfillment and guard our destinies and tribulations safely and successfully across the samsaara.
Rig Veda V.iv.9 and Taittireeya Brahmana vide II.iv.1 – Pritanaajitanguma sahamaanamugram Agni huvema paramaatsadhastyaat, saa nah parshadati durgaanni vishvaa Kshsaamad-devo ati duritaaatyagnih/
May we invoke from the high assemblies of Agni Swarupas viz. Panchaagis of Garhapatya-Aahavaneeya-Dakshina-Sabhya and Aavasyya apart from Naachiketa. We offer our oblations to the Agni of Durga Devi most significantly to cross over this very difficult ocean of worldly existence! May that Fire of Durga carry us all through this mortal life subject to karma phala accounts and once for all burn off our internal enemies to ashes by kindling the Divine Fire!
Pratnoshi kameedyo adhvaresshu sanaaccha Hotaa navyashca sattsi, svaam chaaagne tanuvam piprayasvaamasbhyam cha Saubhagamaayajasva/
In your own Inner Self, Agni Deva in the form of Durga Devi! You are the Sacred most, unique source of happiness and joy for us as the source of sacrifice and fulfillment.
[Rigveda VIII.xi.10 too] Gobhirjushtaamayujo nishiktam tavendra Vishnnoranusamcharema, naakasya prshtthamabhi samvasaano Vaishnnaveem loka iha maadayantaam /Devadeva! You are indeed detached from Sense Organs, Mind and Heart as also the Universe and absorbed with your own introspection. May we too be saturated inwardly with Your all pervading Bliss!
Kaatyaayanaaya vidmahe Kanyaakumaari dheemahi, tanno Durgih prachodayaat/ Om Shantih Shantih Shantih/
May our mind and thoughts be ever anchored and absorbed on the Supreme Devi Kaatyaayani with intense concentration and unswerving devotion as our Singular Liberator. May there be Peace, Peace Always and Peace Alone Forever!
Durga Sapta Shloki
Om Jnaaninaamapi chetaamsi Devi Bhagavati hi sa, baladaakrishaya Maha Maya prayacchati/
Bhagavati Maha Maya! You pull the minds of even ‘Gyaanis’ with force towards obsession!
Om Durgey smritaa harasi bheeti masesha jantoh, Swasthaih smritaa mati mateeva shubhaam dadaasi/
Devi Durga! A mere thought of Yours demolishes fright among ‘Praanis’ or Beings, while You provide auspiciousness in response to the meditation by sensible humans
Daaridra duhkha bhaya haarini ka twadanya, Sarvopakaara karanaaya sadaardra Chitta/
Who else is there but You that is readily prepared with extreme benevolence to ward off our sorrows, fears and adversities?
Om Sarva Mangala Maangalyey Shivey sarvaartha saadhakey, Sharanyey Thraibikey Devi! Narayani Namostuthey/
Devi! Narayani! You are the embodiment and Provider of Auspiciousness to one and all; You are Shiva Swarupa or the Form of Propitiousness fulfilling all our wishes; You are Traimbika or the composite personification of Lakshmi, Saraswati and Parvati; We seek shelter from You, as we bend down and greet!
Om Sharanaagata deenaarta paritraana parayaney, Sarvasyaarti harey Devi! Narayani Namostutey/
Our greetings to You Narayani! Devi! We seek refuge and safety from You as we are helpless and harassed.
Om Sarva Swarupey Sarvesey Sarva Shakti samanvitey, Bhayebhyastraahino Devi! Durga Devi Namostutey/
Devi! You are the all-comprehensive Form, the Supreme Sovereign, and the all- Powerful; kindly shield us from diverse types of fears and apprehensions; our earnest salutations to You, Devi!
Om rogaanaseshaa napahamsi Tushtaa, Rushtaa tu kaamaan sakasaa nabhishtaan/
As You assume compassion, all our diseases disappear; but if indignant, all our wishes get to nought
Twam ashritaanaam na vipannaraanaam, Twam ashritaa hyashrayataam prayaanti /
Those who have already taken asylum from You would never face difficulties any way; on the other hand, such persons saved by You could as well provide protection to others too in their turn!
Om Sarva baadhaa prashamanam Thrailokya syaakhileswari, Evameva twaarya kaarya masadvairi vinaashanam/
Sarveswari! Do continue to alleviate the tribulations of one and all among the Three Lokas and destroy the enemy elements everywhere.
Ya yetatsaramam guhyam Sarva Rakshaa vishaaradam, Devya sambhaashitam Stotram sadaa Saamraajya daayakam/
This Sapta Shloki is at once striking yet classified but bestowing protection; this is a Sacred Hymn related to the Supreme Mother yielding immense benefits including ‘Samraajya’ or Empires!
Shrunuyaadwaa pathedyaapi paathayeydwaapi yatnatah, Parivaara yutho Bhuutwaa Trailokya Vijayeebhavet!
Hearing, reading or narrating the Sapta Shloki with sincere efforts along with family and friends would secure accomplishments in all the Three Lokas!
Durga Stotra vide Virat Parva of Maha Bharata
King Yudhishthar at the time of Pandavas entering ‘Virat Sabha’ had within his own heart prayed to Tribhuvaneshwari Durga Devi and further to Vaasudeva Shri Krishna the Avataara Purusha or the Singular Deity of Dwapara Yuga! Durga Devi’s ‘amsha’was also born to Nanda gopaala even as the babies were interchanged as Maya flew away to high skies warning Kamsa for having imprisoned his own sister and brother in law viz. Vasudeva and Devaki and that Lord Krishna would eventually terminate the devilish Kamsa) Dharma Raja further prayed to Durga Devi:
Bhaaraava tarane punye ye smaranti Sadaashivam, Taan vai taarayase paapaat panke kaamiva durbalam/
Devi! You are the One who had descended down to Earth to bless all those born and pray to you earnestly are surely uplifted from their difficulties, just as those drawn deep into the slush of worldly attractions and the consequences are pulled out and provided salvation. He continued the Prayers as follows:
Yashoda garbha sambhutaam Naaraayana varapriyaam, Nanda gopaala kule jaataam mangalyaam kulavardhineem/ Kamsavidraavana kareemasuranaam kshayamkareem, shilaatatavinikshaptam aakaasham prati gaamineem/ Vaasudevasya bhagineem divyamaalya vibhushitaam,Divyaambara dharaam Deveem khadgakheta dhaarineem/Bhaaraavatarane Punye ye smaranti Sadaa Shivaam, taan vai taarayase paapaat panke gaamiva durlabham/Stotum prachakrame bhuyo vividhaih stotra sambhavaih, Aamantrya darshanaakaanghreem Raja Devim sahaanujah/Namastestu varade Krishne Kumaari Brahmachaarini, baalaarka sadrushaakaare purnachandraa nibhaanane/ Chaturbhuje Chaturvaktre peenashroni payodhare, Mayurapicchavalaye keyuraangada dhaarini, Bhaasi Devi yathaa Padmaa Naaraayana parigrahah/ Swarupam brahmacharyancha vishadam Gaganeshwari, Krishnaacchavi samaa Krishnaa Sankarshana samaanaa/ Vibhrati viphulau baahu Shakra dhwaja samucchruyoau, Paatreecha pankajee ghantee, streevishuddhaa cha yaa bhuvi/ Paashaam Dhanurmahaa chakram vividhaanyaayudhaani cha, Kundalaabhyaam supurnabhyaam karnaabhyaancha vibhushitaa/ Chandra vispadwinaa Devi mukhena twam viraajase, Mukutena vichitrena kesha baandhena shobhinaa/ Bhujangaabhogavaasena shroni sutrena raajataa, Vibhraajase chaa vadvena bhogeneveha mandarah/ Dhvajena shikhi pinchaanaammucchritena viraajase, Kaumaaram vratamaasyaaya tridivam pavitram twayaa/ Tena twam stuyase Devi tradashouh pujyasepicha, Trrilokya rakshanaarthaaya Mahishaasura naashani/ Prasannaame Surashreshthe dayaam kuru shivaa bhava/ Jayaa twam vijayaachaiva sangraamecha jayapradaa, Mammaapi vijayam dehi varadaa twam cha saampratam/ Vindhyechaiva naga shreshthe tava sthaanam hi shaswatam, Kaali Kaali Mahaa Kaali khadga khatvaanga dhaarini/Kritaanu yaatraa bhutaistwam varadaa kaama chaarini, Bhaaraavataare ye cha twaam samshma –rishyanti maanavaah/ Pranaanti cha ye twaam hi prabhaate tu naraa bhuvi, nateshaam durlabham kinchit putrato dhanatopivaa/ Durgaat taarayase Durge tat twam Durgaa smritaa jhanaih, Kaataareshvavasatraanaam magnaanaam cha mahaarnave/ Dasyur bhirvaa niruvaanaam twam gatih paramaa nrinaam, Jalpratarane chaiva kaantaareshvataveeshu cham/Ye smaranti Maha Devi na cha seedanti te naraah, Twam keertim shridhritih siddhi hreem vidyaa santatirmatih/ Sandhyaa raatrim Prabhaa nidraajyotisnaa kanih kshamaa dayaa/ Nrinaamcha bandhanam moham putra naasham dhanakshyam/Vyaadhi mrityum bhayam chaiva pujitaa naashayishyai, Soham raajyaat paribhrashthah sharanam twaam prapannavaan/ Pranatascjha yataa murthaan tava Devi Sureshwari,Traahi maam Padmapatraakshi satye satyaa bhavasva nah/Sharanam bava me Durgey sharanye bhaktavatsale, eshaam stutaahi saa Devi darashanaamaasa Pandavam, Upagamya tu raajaanmidam vachanamabraveet/
May I pray and cogitate Durga Devi who was born from the womb of Yashoda Devi, whom Lord Narayana is fond of his brotherly affection, who descended into the family background of Nandagopa, who provides and promotes auspiciousness all around, yet creates horror to the villianous Kamsa and destroys Asuras, who flew away to the Skies even as the wicked Kamsa tried to hit a stone, whose divinely physique is scented with splendid aromas and also ornamented with brilliant jewellery with magnificent clothing, carrying sharp sword and defensive sheath and finally the celestial sister of Vaasudeva Shri Krishna. Punyamayi Durga Devi! You have descended to Earth to lighten its sinful weight and usher in auspiciousness all over. Mother! You have the reputation of lifting from the depths of hurdles and difficulties to whosoever prays and meditates with earnestness and of blessing such persons with fruits of material and spiritual nature. On these lines, as Yudhishthar prayed with utmost sincerity the original Form of Durga Devi and prostratingly commended her to as follows:
Durga Devi! Once pleased with prayers, you are indeed the symbol of compassion! Our prostations to you, Sacchidaanandamayi Krishne! You are indeed Kumari, Brahmacharini! Your brightness surpasses morning Surya’s red illumination and your visage overcomes that of Chandra’s coolness. Your four arms are like those of Vishnu and Four Faces remind us as of Brahma’s; your chest swells of milk of kindness; your bangles are of peacock feather like softness and ‘keyuras’ are of outstanding brightness and coolness; your artistic looks overtake those of Lakshmi Devi and is resplendent with glow of celibacy; you are named as Shyama Sundari like that of the brilliance of Lord Krishna Himself. Your ‘abhaya mudra’ of raised palms of both of two hands with shoulders too of elevation provides security and of protection, while the third hand carries a vessel to provide boons of fulfillment, the fourth symbolizing a lotus, the fifth hand a bell to warn the malevolent, the sixth a paasha or noose, the seventh a dhanush and the eighth a unique chakra to terminate evil forces. Indeed, you are the symbol of Purity and manifestation of most ideal womanhood on earth with scintillating earrings doubling the splendor of your visage like serpents circling the Mandara mountains! The ‘dhwaja’ or flagship with the signage of peacock feathers waves sky high doubling your magnificence and being symbolic of Brahmacharya or celibacy of high order purifies the three lokas. Devi! No wonder all the Devas raise you in high esteem, shower praises and worship you in admiration and with extreme devotion. It is to save and safeguard the Three Worlds from Mahishasura the symbol of Evil and Cruelty that we all anchor our faiths unto you the high icon of mercy and auspiciousness! Indeed, you are the pictogram of victory and triumph, bestowing success in all our mortal endeavors; do at this very moment be gracious for boon granting to us all. Your traditional place of stay and rest happens to be Vindhyachala! Kaali, Kaali, Maha Kaali, may your weaponry of sword and long studded trident protect us always! To all those beings who worship you with heart and soul reap ready gains and fruits of life. Your movements are impromptu, instant and as per your sweet will in innumerable forms and permutations to save each and every devotee praying with sincerity. No hurdle is inaccessible and no depths or heights are reachable to those who are needy or at your very sincere thought! To those regular devotees who early in the mornings worship you should indeed have no needs of life unfulfilled be it prosperity, progeny, fame and total contentment. Durga Devi! You are renowned to lead the helpless to cross over the mountains of hurdles, be one is lost in thick jungles, or drowning fast and deep in huge oceans, or suddenly surrounded by the mighty wicked and immorals. Indeed you are the ultimate refuge! You are the manifestation of Keerti or Fame, Shri or Wealth, Dhriti or of Patience to let humans follow the path of virtue, Siddhi or of Fulfillment, Lajja or Modesty, Vidya of Knowledge, Santati or Progeny, Mati or Broad Mindedness, besides the materialisation of Sandhya-Raatri-Prabha-Nidra-Jyotsna-Kaanti-Kshama! Total surrender to Durga Devi would certainly assure bondage, poverty, disease, fear psychosis and untimely and panful death!) As Dhara Raja begged desparately and surrendered ultimately with tears in his eyes stating Sharanam bhavame Durge sharanye Bhaktavatsale, Durga Devi granted her vision and assured: Yudhishthara! Not very late since now, you will surely regain your Empire in a battle and clean sweep your enemies. Meanwhile, my blessings to you and Pandavas to overcome all types of problems and hardships as you all should be exemplary to the posterity owing to your patience, tact and endurance)
Then Devi responded to Yudhishthara as follows:
Shrunu Rajan Maha Baaho madeevam vachanam Prabho, Bhavishyatyachiraa deva sangrame vijayatstava/Mama prasaadaan vijayasya hatvaa Kouravavaahineem/ Raajyam nishkashtakam kritwaa bhokshyase medineem punah, Bhtaatrubhinsahito Rajan preetim praapyasi pushkalaam/
Durga Devi was pleased to bless Yuddhishthara! Be assured that soon enough you will be surely victorious in the battle and resume the kingship with redoubled vigour and fame along with your brothers and families)
Matprasaadaacha te soukhamaarogyam cha bhavisyati, ye cha sankeeriyishyanti loke vigatakalmashaah/ Teshaam tushthaa pradaasyaami raajyamaayurvapuh sutam, Pravase nagare chaapi sangraame shatru sankate/ Atavyaam durga kaantaare saagare gahane girou, ye saaradhyanti maam Rajan yatthaham bhavataa smrutaa/ Na teshaam durlabham kinchid asminmalloke bhavishyati, idam storta varam bhaktyaa shrunuyaad vaa pathet vaa/ Tasya sarvaani kaaryaani siddhim yasyanti Pandavah, matprasaadaaccha vah sarvaan Virata nagare sthitaan/ Na pragnyaasyant Kuravo naraa vaa tannivaasinah, Ityuktvaa varadaa Devi Yudhishthiramiradam, Rakshaam kritwaa cha Paanunaam tatrai- vaanataradheeyat/
Devi replied: ‘ It shall be due to my blessings that you will all be safe and healthy. As and when any body meditates and pleases me with veneration, I shall certainly lessen the burden of their blemishes and depending on the intensity of their faith they could be granted longevity, prosperity, health, and even Kingship. Raja Yudhishthar, rest assured that as and when you remember me, I would be with you , be it in another kingdom, battles, enemies, forests, mountains, and seas. Pandavas! As and when you pray to me with conviction, even now as you are about to enter Virat Nagar, do go with confidence as you would face problem of any dimension!
Excerpts on Devi Gayatri from Scriptures
Being the alternate incarnation of Devi Saraswati, Devi Gayatri is the representation of Vaak- Vidya-Vigjnana and the bridge from the deep Oceans of Samsara which is characterised as Illusion-Falsity-Ignorance to Sadhana- Indriya Nigraha-Medhas and thereafter to Self Enlightenment. Gayatri is the Symbol of Inner Strength, Knowledge and Purity of Inner-Consciousness.
Excellence of Panchamukha Gayatri , or Her Five Faces represent Pancha Maha Bhutas or the Fundamentals of the Universe viz. Prithivi-Aapas-Tejas- Vaayu and Aakasha or Earth- Water-Fire-Air-and Sky. Thus She is the Composite Form of the Universe and of Charaachara Jagat further supplemented by the ‘Awareness’ which implies knowledge-wisdom-regulation-and the driving energy. She is also the Cause of Universal Creation and the Fall Out Effect or the ‘Bhakshya’ and ‘Bhojya’ or the ‘Anna’ the Food and the Enjoyer or the Living Beings. Devi Gayatri’s dasha hastas or ten hands are adorned with five ‘ayudhas’ viz. shankha; chakra, kamala, varada, abhaya, kasha, ankusha, ujjwala utensil, rudrakshi mala.
Being the Outstanding Universal Link of Pancha Maha Bhutas on one side, Her Physical Form is of the ‘Panchendriyas’of the Beings. The Panchendriyas comprise: Pancha Jnanendriyas viz. Ghrana-Rasa- Chakshu-Shrotra-Twak or smell, taste, see, hear and touch and Pancha Karmendriyas viz. nose-tongue- eyes- ears- skin respecively. She is the representation of Pancha Koshas or five sheaths of human body viz. Annamaya- Praanamaya- Manomaya-Vigjnaanamaya-Anandamaya, viz. the very basis of existence is food or Annamaya (Physical Energy), Praanamaya (Vital Energy), Manomaya (Mental Faculty), Vigyanamaya (Buddhi or Sharpness of Discrimination) and Ananda maya (Bliss). Seekers worship Gayatri by Panchaagnis or Five Fires viz. Garhapatya, Aahavaneeya, Daksjhinaagni, Sabhya and Aavasatya representing Heaven, Cloud, Earth, Man and Woman. Further Gayatri represents Pancha Pranas viz. Prana-Apaana-Udaana-Vyana -Samana. [ In this context, prana vayu is not overall prana but a sub-prana or prana vayu which is located in the chest between the larynx and the diaphragm, and governs the respiratory system and functioning of the heart. Prana vayu, literally “forward moving air”, moves inwards and regulates all the ways in which we take in energy – from the inhalation of air, eating of food, and drinking of water, to the reception of sensory impressions and mental experiences. It provides the basic energy that drives us in life. Imbalance in prana vayu is associated with heart and lung conditions. Diminished prana vayu leads to depression and lethargy.Apana vayu is centered in the pelvic region below the navel and experienced as a downward flowing movement on exhalation. It controls the functioning of the kidneys, bladder, colon, rectum, and reproductive organs. Literally “air that moves away”, apana vayu moves downwards and outwards, and is responsible for the elimination of feces, urination, menstruation, orgasm, birthing a baby, as well as the elimination of carbon dioxide through the breath. On a deeper level it governs the elimination of negative sensory, mental and emotional experiences. Blockage of this wind can result in constipation, sexual dysfunction, menstrual problems, hemorrhoids, as well as inability to let go and move on.Samana vayu, literally “balancing air”, is situated between the navel and ribcage, and acts as the stabilizer between the two opposing forces of prana and apana. It moves from the periphery to the center and rules all the metabolic activities involved in digestion. It digests and assimilates incoming energy, supplying the internal heat to “cook” the food we eat and to absorb sense impressions, emotional experiences and thoughts. Imbalance can affect the function of any digestive organs as well as mental ability of assimilation. Udana vayu is a manifestation of prana which pervades the head and throat. It literally means “upward moving air”, and its upward movement governs the growth of the body, the ability to stand, the nervous system, thought, speech, communication, effort and will. Udana vayu is the energy that can be used for self-transformation and spiritual growth. Imbalance can result in problems of cognition and communication. At the time of death, udana draws the individual consciousness up and out of the body.Vyana vayu, literally “outward moving air”, moves prana shakti from the center to the periphery. Being distributed from the core of the body out to the extremities this manifestation of prana pervades the whole body and acts as reserve energy for other prana vayus that require an extra boost. Associated with the peripheral nervous system and circulation, it induces the movement of food, water and oxygen as well as blood, lymph and nervous impulses throughout the body. Vyana governs relaxation and contraction of all muscles, the movements of the joints, as well as circulation of emotions and thoughts in the mind. Imbalance can cause poor peripheral circulation or numbness on a physical, emotional or mental level. All prana vayus are intimately linked to one another. One enjoys health and well-being only if prana vayus are balanced and work in harmony. Generally, Prana and Udana work opposite to Apana as the energy of collection and assimilation versus the force of elimination. Samana represents the energy of contraction while Vyana is expansion.Along with the five major pranas, there are five minor or upa pranas. Naga is responsible for belching and hiccupping.Koorma opens the eyes. Devadatta governs yawning. Krikara induces hunger and thirst. Dhananjaya is in charge of decomposition of the body after death.In reference to Eleven Forms of Vayu, Prabhaajamaana, Vyavadaatah, Vaasukivaidyuta, Rajataah, Parushaah, Shyaamaah, Kapilaa, Atilohitaah, Urdhvaah, Avapatantaah and Vaidyuta. Indeed any person who knows the names of the eleven Vayus would never be harmed by the lightning shocks and other Fire hazards.
The Essence of Gayatri is a step by step effort eligible for Dwijas or the twice born Hindus. Purusha Sukta states:
Brahmanosya mukhamaaseet bahoo raajanyah kritah vooroo tadasya yad vaishyahi padabhyaagum shudro aajaayata/
From Prajapati’s face emerged Brahmanas, kshatriyas from His hands, His thighs the Vaishyas and from His feet the Lower class. The first three being dvijas or twice born are eligible for the worship of Gayatri. Indeed this opportunity bestowed to them if wasted, human life is a waste, let alone a lapse verging on sinfulness.As already described in the Preface earlier, Gayatri- is the representation of ‘Tri Lokas’ or Earth-Atmosphere- and Beyond; ‘Tri-Kaalaas’ or the Past-Present-Future; ‘Tri Sandhyas’ or Ushah kaala -Madhyaahna- Saayam kaala; ‘Tri Gunas’ or Satva-Rajas-Tamo gunas; ‘Tri-Mano Tatvas’ or States of Mind viz. Gross-Subtle- Causal or Fundamental; and ‘Tri- Avasthas’ or States of Conciousness of Jaagrat-Svapna-Sushupti or Awakenness-Dream and Inward Vision. ‘AUM is the true reflection of Srishi the Universe. Once Pranava recital is taken up then the ‘dehendriya praana mano buddhi’ or the body parts, life’s energy, the mind and its variations get srirred up and rejuvenated. Pranava is the very Life’s force, and in reverse sense Praana is Pranava itself literally! There could be no worship nor puja nor any ‘mantra’ without AUM! Omkaara comprises A kaara-U kaara-Ma kaara. Aum iti aksharam Brahma! Brahman is ‘Aum’: the Letter ‘A’ is pronounced by one’s throat emerging from deep within right from the navel- ‘U’ across the tongue- and ‘M’ terminating with both the lips. Then the three words by way of vyahritis or Bhur- Bhuvar- Svah or Earth- Horizon- Sky as also the Time Measurement of the Present-Past- Future. Then the rest of the Gayatri Mantra: Tat or that Paramatma the Blissful Truth- Savitur or the very original Celestial Surya as distinct from what one visions- varenyam or be worshipped- bhargo devasya or the eternal celestial splendour- dheemasya or worthy of meditation- dhiyo yo nah : may that unique awareness – prachodayaat or be keenly enlightened!
Now the Gayatri Mantra: Om bhur bhuvah svah tat Savitur varenyam Bhargo Devasya dheemihi, dhiyoyonah prachodayat/
Recitation of this Supreme Mantra acquires the qualities of the perfectly balanced person in terms of the qualities of virtue as per the laws of material nature.
‘Sandhyopasana’-Procedure, Meaning and Interpretation
Sandhya is the intermission of ‘Ahoraatras’or day and night as signified by Sun Rise and Sun Set. Poorvaa Sandhyaa tu Gayatri Savitri madhyaa smritaa, Yaa bhavet paschimaa sandhyaa saa Vigjneyaa Saraswati/ The pre-noon is dominated by Devi Gayatri, noon time by Devi Savitri and the Sun set by Devi Saraswati and hence the respective Goddesses need worship at these times. Gayatri is of blood red complexion, Savitri of pure white Varna and Saraswati of black colour and they represent Brahma-Rudra-Vishnu Swarupas of Paramatma. Meditation of these forms of Almighty is basically through the representation of Aditya:
Udyantamastam yantamaadityam/ (Taittiriya Brahmana Upanishad). Uttama Taarakopetaa madhyamaa Lupta Taarakaa, Adhamaa Surya sahitaa Praatah Sandhyaa Tridhaamata/ Uttamaa Surya sahitaa madhyamaa lupta Bhaskaraa, Adhamaa Taarakopetaa Sayam Sandhyaa Tridhaamataa/
Praah-sandhya is best performed in the presence of Stars on the Sky; when Stars are invisible then the time of Sandhya is of medium type but when Suryodaya has taken place then the Sandhyopaasna is of minimal value. Conversely, the Saayam Sandhya is best done while Surya is still present, after Sunset the Sandhya is of medium worth but when Stars appear on the Sky the Sandhya worship is of poor quality. Maadhyaahnika Sandhya is scheduled at half prahara of the Sayamkaala Samaya.
While taking bath for purification before ‘Sandhyopasana’ a devotee may recite the following Mantra:
Gangecha Yamunechaiva Godavari Saraswathi, Narmadey Sindhu Kaveri Jalosmin sannidhim kuru/ Pushkaraadyaani Tirthaani Gangaadyaah Saritastatha, Aagacchhantu Mahaabhaagaah Snaana kaaley sadaa mama/ Ayodhya Mathuraa Maayaa Kaashi Kaanchihyavantika, Puri Dwaravati Jneyaah Saptaitaa Moksha –daayikaah/
May the waters flowing in the Rivers of Ganga, Yamuna, Godavari, Saraswati, Narmada, Sindhu and Kaveri be present in the waters that I am bathing in. May Pushkara and other Tirthas as well as the Sacred Rivers like Ganga be present here. May also the Seven Sacred Kshetras of Ayodhya, Mathura, Maya (Haridwar), Kashi, Kanchi, Avanti (Ujjain) and Dwaravati as renowned be also present.) After bath, ‘Arghya’ (Water) / Dhyana (meditation) are offered to Surya Deva; the devotee would then wear clean, two white robes, settle down on a ‘kushasana’(mat) facing ‘Ishana’(North-East) direction, commence ‘Achamana’ with Harih Om and Pavitra Mantra viz.
Apavitrah pavitrova sarvaavasthaangatopivaa, yasmaret Pundareekaaksham sa Baahyaantarah suchih
Let me remember the name of ‘Pundarikaaksha’always-whether physically clean or otherwise-with cleanliness from within or without); while doing ‘Achamana’or sipping spoonfuls of water thrice with Gayatri Mantra, utter the Mantras viz.
Om Rutamcha Satyam cha abheedaat tapasodhyajaayata, tato Ratrasya Jaayata tatassamudro Arnavah
Even before meditation, the Self-illuminated Para Brahma created the authentic Truth and from that Truth generated darkness which created the waters of the Oceans;
Samudraarnavaat Adhi Samamvatsaro Ajaayata, Ahoraatraani vidadhat Vishvashya mishato vashee/
Days/ nights as also Years and the concept of Time got materialized only after the waters of Oceans were generated and Paramatma held the Universe in His full control;
Suryaa Chandra masow Dhaata Yathaa purvam kalpayat, Divamcha Prithiveem chaaantariksha mathosvah/
As in the past, Dhata (Paramatma) created Surya Chandras, Celestial Region including Heaven, besides the Sky and Earth.
Aachamana three times: Om Keshavaaya svaaha, Om Narayana svaaha,Keshavaaya svaaha/
Note: Brahmanas take in the sip so as to reach the navel, Kshatriyas upto the throat and Vaishyas upto the mouth corners. There after Om Govindaaya namah, Vishnave namah– wipe both the palms with water; Om Madhusudanaaya namah, Om Trivikrayaaya namah: wipe both the lips from left to right with right hand; Om Vaamanaaya namah, OmShridharaaya namah/ sprinkle drops of water on head with right hand; Om Hrisheekeshaaya namah, Om Padmanaabhaaya namah/ sprinkle drops of water on feet with left hand; Om Damodaraaya namah/ sprinkle water drops on head; Om Sankarshanaaya namah/ touch the chin with all the fingers; Om Vaasudevaaya namah, Om Pradyumnaaya namah/ touch the right and left sides of the nose with right hand; Om Aniruddhaaya namah, Om Purushottamaaya namah/ touch both the eyes; Om Adhokshajaaya namah, Om Naarasimhaaya namah/ touch both the ears; Om Achyutaaya namah/ touch the navel; Om Janardanaaya namah/ Touch the heart with right hand; Om Upendaraaya namah/ touch the head; Om Haraye namah, Om Shri Krishnaye namah/ touch both the shoulders. Triraachamet-dvih parimrijya : three aachamanas- wipe right foot thumb and both the lips from right to left sides. Sakrudupasprushya: Touch both the lips with right hand; Savyam Paanim paanim paadou prokshati/ Sprinkle water with right hand around left hand on both the feet. Shirah chakshshee naasike shrotre shirah/ Sprinkle water drops on head-eyes-nose-ears and head/
Then the devotee performing Sandhya Vandana sips water by way of ‘Achamana’ once again. Thereafter, the devotee is to spray water in all the directions as also on the self while performing ‘bhutocchhaatana’ with the mantra :
Uttintashtantu Bhuta Pishaachaah ete bhumi bhaarakaah, eteshaamavirodhena Brahma Karma samaarabhe/
May ‘bhuta pishaachaadi’ evil spirits fly way as well as the Aishadvargaas like Kaama-krodha-lobha-moha-mada- matsaraas be cleared.
Then, he readies himself to do ‘Praanaayaam’ and recites Pranava while proposing the seven ‘Vyahritis’(relevant expressions of Gayatri) viz. Om Bhuh, Om Bhuvah, Om Suvah, Om Mahah, Om Janah, Om Tapah, Om Satyam, Om tatsavatir varenyam bhargo devasya dheermahi dhiyo yonah prachodayaat, Om Apo Jyoti rasomritam Bharma Bhurbhuvatswarom/ simultaneously sprinkle drops of water on one’s own head. Pranayama (Control of Prana) is performed by touching the nose by the thumb and second finger and air must be taken in slowly through the left nostril and sent out by the right nostril; inhalation is known as ‘Puraka’, retaining is ‘Kumbhaka’ and exhalation is Rechaka, the three tasks done by 1:3:2 ratio, completing one Pranayama.
The ‘Viniyogas’ or attributions of Gayatri / Shiro Mantras are as follows:
Gayatri Mantra –Omkaarasya Brahma Rishih, Devi Gayatri Chhandah, Paramaatmaa Devataa, Sapta Vyahriteenaam Prajaapatirrishih Gayatri ushnik anushtup Brihati Pankti trishtup jagatyah chhandaamsya AgnirVaayu Surya Brihaspati Varunendra Vishvadeva Devatah/
Praanaayama Viniyogah) Shiro Mantra –Tatsavituriti Vishwamitra Rishih Gayatri chaandah Savitaa Devataa Apojyotiriti Sirasah Pajapatirishi yajuschhando BrahmagniVaayu Suryaa Devataah/
Praanaayaamey Viniyoga. After the Pranayaama Viniyoga, the devotee has to perform Kara Nyasa and Anga Nyasa as follows: Kara Nyasa: Om Angushthaabhyaam Namah (Touch both the thumbs); Om Bhuh Tarjanibhyam namah (Touch both thumbs with both fore-fingers); Om Bhuvah Madhyamaabhyaam Namah (Touch both thumbs with both middle fingers); Om Swaha Anaamikaabhyaam Namah (Touch the thumbs with ring wearing finger); Om Bhur bhuvah kanishtikaabhyaam namah (Touch the thumbs with little fingers) and Om Bhur bhuvah swah karatala hastaabhyaam namah (Touch both the back sides of the palms) Anganyasa:: Om Hridayaa Namah (Touch the heart with right hand); Om Bhu Sirasey swaha (Touch the head); Om Bhuvah Shikhaya vashat (Touch the tuft); Om Swah kavachaaya hum (Touch shoulders with both the hands); Om Bhurbhuvaha netraa -bhyaam voushat (Touch the eyes with respective hand-fingers); Om Bhurbhuvah swaha Astraya phat ( take the right hand behind the back and clap to rest it on left palm). After Pranayama as above, then Gayatri Avahana Sankalpa states: Mamopaattha Samasta duritakshaya dwara Shri Parameswara preetyartham Praatah Sandhyaamupaasishy/ or Maadhyaahnikam Karishey/ or Saayam Sandhyaamupaasishey (May I begin to worship Goddess Sandhya in the morning/afternoon/evening by destroying all of my sins by the grace of Parameswara).
In the morning Gayatri is in the form of ‘Tryaikshari’, Veda Maataa and Brahma Vaadini: Aaagachha varade Devi Tryaiksharey Brahma Vaadini, Gayatricchandasaam Maata Brahmayoney Namostutey; In the afternoon she arrives as Savitri by a vrishabha (bull) with white robes as Rudra Vaadini: Madhyaahney Vrishabha aruudhaam Savitreem Rudra yonim chaavaahayerudravaadineem; in the evening Gayatri appears mounted on Garuda as Sarasvati with crimson robes as VishnuVaadini : Saayamtu Garudhaarudhaam Peetaambharasamaavitaam, Sarasvatim Vishnuyoni maahvayed Vishnu Vaadineem/
After the Sankalpa follows Maarjanam by the Mantra : Aapohishta mayo bhuvah, tana oorje dadhaatana/ maheranaaya chakshase, yo vah Shiva tamo rasah/ tasya bhajayateha nah/Usiteeravah Matarah, Tasma arangamama vah, yasya kshayaya jinvath/ Apo janaa yahta cha nah/ Om bhurbhuva suvah/
Aapohishtha: The Goddesses of Water indeed; Mayo bhuvah: are the causes of granting happiness; tah nah: Such Goddesses; Mahe Ramaaya chakshasey : are Great and charming to view; oorje dadhaatana :provide nourishment ; sivatamo rasah: most propitious bliss; Usitih Matara iva: like loving mothers; Bhajayateha yasya kshayaaya: make us worthy of that bliss; Jinvatha tasmaa vah aram gamaamah :we go in for that bliss with great eagerness; Apo janaayata: may we be born in rebirth with pure knowledge.
Scientific Explanation of Gaytri Mantra
A scientific explanation was offered by modern experts about the Gayatri Mantra: According to Astro-Physicists and Astronomers, a Sound is produced due to the fast movement of Earth, Planets, and Galaxy or the Milky Way, called Akshya Ganga, with some 100,000 million Stars. The Galaxy, the Moon and the Earth-all revolving around the Sun-each moving on their own axis at a mind boggling velocity of 20,000 miles per second, produce the Sound and the Sages named the Super Sound as OM. The Sum of the Gayatri Mantra states: The Earth (*Bhur), the Planets (*Bhuvaha), and the Galaxy (* Swaha) are rotating on their own axis at a great velocity as the Sound OM, which is the Formless Entity. The total Kinetic Energy genrated by these movements balance the over-all energy consumption of Cosmos and this is named the ‘Pranava’ or the Body Energy ie Mass of Galaxies multiplied by two: Mass x Velocity x 2. That Supreme Entity (God) who manifests in the Form of Utmost Radiance (The San or Savitur) is indeed worthy of surrender (Varenyam). One should meditate (Dheemahi) upon the Light (Bhargo) of that Entity (Devasya) and perform the chanting of OM. May He(Yo) guide in the right Direction (Prachodayat) our (nah) Intellect (dhiyo)
Maha Narayanopaishad-Gayatri in Celestial Images
Following are 12 passages called Gayatris addressed to various Deities:
1: ( Maha Deva Gayatri) Purushasya vidma sahasraakshasya Maha Devasya dheemahi, tanno Rudrah prachodayaat/ May we meditate that Maha Purusha and absorb the knowledge and might of that myriad eyed Maha Deva ! The most significant explanation of of Gayatri is vide Rigveda Mandala III.Sukta 62. Stanza 10 is : Tat savitur varenyam bhargo devasya dheemahi dhiyo yonah prachodayaat/ That ‘buddhi’ or the heart felt mentality which impacts ‘sanmarga’ the path of virtue is worthy of worshipping Savita Devata, demolishes blemishes and leads us to uphold the divine path! Chhandogya Upanishad III. xii.1) Gayatri vaa idam sarvam bhutam yad idam kim cha, Vaag vai gaayatri, Vaag vaa idam sarvam bhutam Gaayati cha traayate cha/( Gayatri is the manifestation of all the Beings in Creation. Speech is Gayatri. It is that Vaak Devi who sings for and provides protection for one all! In the days of yore there were three principal media to secure Soma juice viz. Gayatri, Trishtup and Jagati; but only Gayatri could reach the kingdom of Soma as the other two got fatigued and retreated. Besides excellence in singing viz. ‘gaana’, Gayatri does ‘traana’ or protection of the ‘Praanis’ too)
2: (Rudra Gayatri) Tat Purushasya vidmahe Maha Devaaya dheemahe, tanno Rudrah prachodayaat/ May we be impelled to realise that Supreme Person Rudra Deva the embodiment of Jnaana, enlighenment and the secret of Supreme Realisation!
3: (Vighnesha Gayatri) Tat purushaya vidmahe Vakratundaaya dheemahe, tanno Dantih prachodayaat/ May that Maha Purusha Ganeshwara the elephant faced with a powerful trunk and tusk bestowing auspiciousness and Vidya, whom Devas and humans are invoked before every action to ward off evil forces and all kinds of obstacles.
4: ( Nandi Gayatri) Tat Purushaaya vidmahe Chakratundaaya dheemahi, tanno Nandih prachodayaat/ May we invoke that form of divinity known as Chakratunda or Nandikeshwara the servant, seat and vehicle of Lord Shiva wielding chakra and discuss while Shiva was engaged in battles with demons gasping with the mouth.
5: (Shanmukha Gayatri) Tatpurushaya vidmahe Mahasenaaya dheemahi, tannah Shanmukha prachodayaat/ May Bhagavan the Six Faced Kartikeya the embodiment of chivalry as the Commander-in Chief of Deva Sena and the enforcer of Dharma guide us and impel to seek enlightenment to realise the Essence of Truth.
6.: ( Garuda Gayatri) Tatpurushaaya vidmahe Suvarnapakshaaya dheemahi, tanno Garudah prachodayaat/ We seek to worship Suvarnapaksha or with golden wings Garuda Deva the swallower of Snakes and the chariot of Maha Vishnu who is eveready to carry the latter within a fraction of second to places where the latter’s devotees urge Him to save at once.
7: ( Brahma Gayatri) Vedaatmanaaya vidmahe Hiranyagarbhaaya dheemamahi, tanno Brahma prachodayaat/ We beseech Hiranyagarbha Brahma Bhagavan the known manifestation of the Supreme Reality and the root of Chatur Vedas reciting them from his four faces to impact our consciousness towards the path of estimable action.
8.Narayana Gayatri) Naraayanaaya vidmahe Vaasudevaaya dheemahi, tanno Vishnah prachodayaat/ We prostrate before Narayana Vaasudeva to lead us to righteousness and reveal us the Reality and reach us to the arduous path of Bliss. The term Narayana as resting on deep waters preserving the Universe that He creates as His effective deliberation and cause. Vaasudeva is the Antaryaami as the ‘ ayaktam- shasvatam -Vishnum -anantam -ajam -avyayam’.
9: ( Bhaskara Gayatri): Bhaskaraaya vidmeheMahaadyutikaraaya dheemahi, tanno Adityah prachodayaat/ May we perform ‘pradakshana namaskaaras’ or circumambulatary greatings to Pratyaksha Bhaskara the original cause of radiance and illumination of Trilokas for uprooting darkness and bestow life and sustenance to all the Beings and demolish ‘agjaana’ or ignorance to lead us jyoti : ‘tamasomaa jyotir gamaya -mrityormaa jyotirgamaya’!
10: (Vaishwaanara Gayatri) : Vaishvaanaraaya vidmahe leelaalaaya dheemahi, tanoo Agnih prachodayaat/ May Agni Deva the ready means of worship and cooking as the singular source of radiance and ‘homa karyaas’ by which all the devas are invoked and contented with ‘mantra yukta ajyaas’ by way of oblations through the singular means of ghee and food. Manduka Upanishad describes Vaishvaanara as ‘ Lolaayamaana’: I.ii.4) Kaali Karaali cha Manojavaa cha Sulohitaa yaa cha Sudhumravarnaa, Sphulingini Vishvarupi cha Devi Lolaayamaanaa iti Sapta Jihvaah/ (The Sapta- Jihvaas or the Seven Tongues of Fire Flames are Kaali (black), Karaali ( ferocious), Manojava ( Speed of Mind), Sulohita (extremely red hot), Sudhumra varna ( coloured like thick smoke), Sphulingini ( emitting cracky sparks) and Vishvaruchi ( blazing all around); these are the ‘lolaayamaana- agnis’ or the ever moving flames of speed and spread!)
11:( Katyaayani Gayatri) Katyaayanaaya vidmahe Kanyakumari dheemahi, tanno Durgih prachodayaat/ May Devi Katyaayani be realised and Devi Kanyakumari be worshipped. We seek the blessings of Durga Devi generously and lead us to Reality and Realisation.
The Gayatri Mantra is the form of eternal truth. It is the heart of all beings and the eternal Ved Mantra. Gayatri destroys the sins of the world. All the four Vedas have originated from this mantra:
In addition Rishis have created 24 other Gayatri mantras – Sakaama Gayatri – ”with desire” Gayatri. The 24 words of the Gayatri appear in the form of the 24 Divine Shaktis.
- Ganesh Gayatri: The repetition of this mantra is done for the destruction of obstacles and to succeed in difficult tasks.
Om Eka Dandhaya Vidmahe Vakratundaya Dhimahi Tanno tantihi Prachodayat - Vishnu Gayatri: To develop sustaining power, this mantra is used.
Om Narayanaya Vidmahe Vasudevaya Dhimahi Tanno Vishunha Prachodayat - Shiv Gayatri: To invoke auspiciousness, That is to have pure thoughts and high spiritual feelings, this mantra is used.
Om Panchavaktraya Vidmahe Mahadevaya Dhimahi Tanno Rudraha Prachodayat - Brahma Gayatri: To increase productiveness, that is to increase the power of creative shakti, this mantra is used.
Om Chaturmukhaya Vidmahe Hansa Rudraaya Dhimahi Tanno Brahma Prachodayat - Rama Gayatri: This mantra is used to establish proper conduct and ethical behavior.
Om Daasharthaye Vidmahe Sita Vallabhaya Dhimahi Tanno Ramahi Prachodayat - Krishna Gayatri: To bring dynamic energy into one’s lify in order to be able to do anything, intense sadhana is done for this Divine power with this mantra.
Om Devaki Nandanaya Vidmahe Vasudevaya Dhimahi Tanno Krishna Prachodayat - Indra Gayatri: To ward off any form of attack, intense sadhana is done for this Divine shakti.
Om Sahasranetraya Vidmahe Vajrahastaya Dhimahi Tanno Indra Prachodayat - Hanuman Gayatri: When there is a lack of fulfilling one’s duty within oneself, then this mantra is used.
Om Anjanisutaya Vidmahe Vayuputraya Dhimahi Tanno Marutih Prachodayat - Surya Gayatri: Worship with this mantra is very beneficial for curing grievous diseases.
Om Bhaskaraya Vidmahe Divakaraya Dhimahi Tanno Suryah Prachodayat - Chandra Gayatri: For the removal of suffering and to get peace from dejection and worries, this mantra has been used for the worship of this Divine Shakti.
Om Shirputraya Vidmahe Amrit Tatvaya Dhimahi Tanno Chandrah Prachodayat - Yum Gayatri: This is universal prayer to gain fearlessness from death.
Om Putryaya Vidmahe Mahakalaya Dhimahi, Tanno Yumahah Prachodayat - Varun Gayatri: To develop sweetness and melodiousness at all levels, in speech, action, dealing with others, etc.., this mantra is used.
Om Jalbimbaya Vidmahe Neel Purshaya Dhimahi Tanno Varunah Prachodayat - Narayana Gayatri: In order to establish discipline and make people listen to orders, one concentrates on this mantra.
Om Narayanaya Vidmahe Visudevaya Dhimahi Tanno Narayanah Prachodayat - Nrishinga Gayatri: This mantra is used in order to acquire this Divine Shakti, which has shown itself to be successful in increasing our efforts and in acquiring bravery.
Om Ugranrishinghaye Vidmahe Vajrankhaya Dhimahi Tanno Nrishinghaha Prachodayat - Durga Gayatri: This mantra is used to acquire this Divine Shakti, which is used to gain victory over enemies, attackers and obstacles.
Om Girijayei Vidmahe, Shiva Priyayei DhimahiTanno Durga Prachodayat - Laxmi Gayatri: This is the one Shakti believed to help in acquiring wealth, status, greatness, and fame; therefore, this mantra is used to invoke this Shakti.
Om Maha Laxmayei Vidmahe,Vishnupriyayei Dhimahi Tanno Laxmi Prachodayat - Radha Gayatri: This is a unique Shakti to fill the activities with the feelings of Divine Love; therefore, this mantra is used to invoke this Shakti.
Om Vrishbhaanujayei Vidmahe Krihsnpriyayei Dhimahi Tanno Radha Prachodayat - Sita Gayatri: To develop the Shakti of penance, it is very necessary to do worship with this mantra.
Om Janak Nandiniyei Vidmahe Bhumijayei Dhimahi Tanno Sita Prachodayat - Saraswati Gayatri: Learned scholars have said that the use of this mantra can help to increase the Shakti of the intellect and mental sharpness.
Om Saraswateyei Vidmahe Brahmaputriye Dhimahi Tanno Devi Prachodayat - Agni Gayatri: This is a famous mantra used to bring effulgence into the life/force of the body and in every activity of love.
Om Mahajwalyei Vidmahe Agnidevaya Dhimahi Tanno Agnih Prachodayat - Prithvi Gayatri: This mantra is considered useful in strengthening one’s Shakti to remove wavering of resolve and in bringing steadfastness.
Om Prithvi Devayei Vidmahe Sahasramurtayei Dhimahi Tanno Prithvi Prachodayat - Tulsi Gayatri: To remove selfishness, increase selflessness, and make doing selfless service the goal of one’s life, this mantra is very helpful.
Om Tulsayei Vidmahe Vishnu Priyayei Dhimahi Tanno Vrinda Prachodayat - Hansa Gayatri: To awaken discrimination, this is a very powerful mantra.
Om Param Hansaye Vidmahe Mahahansaye Dhimahi Tanno Hansah Prachodayat - Hayegriva Gayatri: When one is surrounded by fear on all four sides and is in need of courage, then this mantra is used.
Om Vanishavaraye Vidmahe Hayegrivaye Dhimahi Tanno Hayegrivah Prachodayat/
Compiled and Edited by VDN Rao
