Cosmic Connection

Cosmic Connection

Sneh Chakraburtty

CHITTA-CHIT PUBLICATIONS iv The Cosmic Connection

Inspired by Bharat & Arjun Bhaga Saakshi & Divya Sutarwala

Thankful admiration is articulated for Swamini Nishtananda & Bri. Mukta Of Chinmaya Tapovan in Sidhbari and the many Teachers of Chinmaya Mission Worldwide The Cosmic Connection v

Chitta-Chit Publications 206 Locke Street South HAMILTON, L8P 4B4 Tel: 905 570 0440

Re-edited 2009 ISBN: 0-9730057-0-X

Laser Typeset by Ankit Informatics (P) Ltd. New Delhi, Email : [email protected] vi The Cosmic Connection

Contents

PART I CHHANDI: SHE WHO SURPASSES THOUGHT Preface 3 Chhandi 14 Atha -Kavacham 16 Atha Argalaa Strotram 24 Atha Kilaka Stotram 28 Devi Mahaatmayam 32 Shivaís to 39 Prathmo-charitam 42 1 Shivananda 53 2 Dvitiyo Dhyaayah 55 3 Atha-tritiyo-dhyaa-yaha 65 4 Atha Chaturtho Adhyaa-Yaha 72 5 Atha Uttam Charitam 80 6 Atha Shashtho Dhyaa-Yah 92 7 Aatha Saptamo-Dhyaayaha 96 8 Atha Ashtamo-Dhyaayah 103 9 Atha Navamo-Dhyaayaha 112 10 Atha Dashamo Dhyaayaha 118 11 Atha Ekaa-Dasho-Dhyaayah 123 12 Atha Dvaa-Dasho Dhyaayah 132 13 Atha Trayo-Dasho-Dhyaa-Yah 138 Chandi Arati 144 The Cosmic Connection vii

PART II : CHILDREN’S PRAYER MANUAL Preface 151 1 Surrender to Chinmaya 153 2 Shlokas For Focused Concentration 154 3 Gurustotram - Salutations to the Teacher 157 4 Vandana 160 5 Shaantih Mantrah ñ Peace Invocation 161 6 Mukundamala ñ A of Hymns to Mukunda (Selected) 165 7 Geeta Dhyanam 168 8 Nama Sankirtanam - Famous Seed Mantras 171 9 Ganapati Stavah 172 10 Ganapati 174 11 Suktam 182 12 Vedic Arati 188 13 Sharda Stotram 190 14 Puja Vidhi 191 15 Mantra Pushpam 207 16 Kashi Viswanath Stotram 210 17 Shri Puja 212 18 Chinmaya Aarati 228 19 Puja 229 20 Guru--stotram 302 21 Sukhtam 304 22 Medha Sukhtam 306 23 Meditation upon the Creator 308 24 Sri Hanumah Chalisa 309 25 He Mere Vatan ke Logon 314 26 Hindu Hindu Ek Rahe 316 27 Vande Mataram 317 She who Surpasses Thought 1

Part I

Chhandi

She Who Surpasses Thought 2 The Cosmic Connection She who Surpasses Thought 3

Preface

To evolve as individuals there is a need to study the underlying truths embedded in real philosophy. It is the Mother of all learning. Ancient Greeks considered philosophy a useful study of the physical world. It stressed how man might best live and study this reality of the world. Such seeking requires an understanding of ourselves. Further searching needs understanding the existence of that. Studying This and That needs Man to make a Cosmic Connection, with a clear brain power. Student needs Teacher A Master does not come on earth until you call for him or her. There were many mortals begging for a presence of such a Master in the last century. Today Swami Chinmayananda sits not only in our own center but in the center of all of those lives he touched. To this day he keeps prompting us with secret and not so secret schooling he started while he was physically among us. Many already realise we asked for this exacting Master to appear in our lives at the start of our spiritual journey. He appeared most unexpectedly to most and we received entry into teachings of scriptures Gurudev had already simplified. Anyone who received initiation knows instinctively he or she must commit to several pledges. We promised to learn from studying prescribed texts and upholding a regular schedule to reach a defined goal. These undertakings are our dearest companions today. The assurance we committed to preserve our commitment to continue our spiritual path. Looking back to the beginning, every seeker realises he or she is changing. All those on a spiritual path retrospectively realise, knowingly or not, they just pulled off an excellent human existence. Grace of materialistic and moral gains allowed seeker the luxury of exploring spirituality. There is also a realisation that only grace allows a thirsty seeker to meet with the most excellent Master, who launched each into the secret teachings of the greater highway. Our inner being changed. We behaved differently every day. Our thinking and acting based on a solid foundation of and or ìmoral doís and do notísî allowed us unblemished interaction. Our communication through BMI [body-mind-intellect] with OET [objects-emotions-thoughts] was of a continuously changing PFT [perceiver-feeler-thinker]. Along the way through these years, we made special contacts with faultless mortals ìby accidentî who took us further along this Greater Highway. A guruís teachings became clearer every day and with each contact with the wise, holy and pure of heart. Essence of a teacherís total lessons now becomes a definitive education and refuge of in our daily lives. 4 The Cosmic Connection

BMI Chart Any intellectual can reach perfect understanding if our old scriptures were arranged and laid out in steps, one by one in a proper order. Gurudev did just that. Swamiji Chinmayanandaís BMI chart is his greatest gift to us. He offered us at every step of a spiritual study a clear and simple stated method. By sketching a study schedule it first took an apprentice along an intellectual path. At one fell swoop, by prescribing practical exercises for self-improvement, the student learned and found an important self-discovery. Its destination is a positive evolution into true Spirituality.

Learning The Greater Highway towards self-realisation passes through three stages: learning through study, reflecting on scriptures approved by a teacher until they become part of a thinking pattern, and finally meditating on them. Such lasting activity is impossible without trust, faith and love for the Master. With such reverence, a studentís conviction and confidence leads seekerís sincerity along new thought patterns. These influence all studentsí future actions, whether through body, speech, or mind. Activities unexpectedly become devotional services. The Master presents a new experience and introduces the Cosmic Mother in all Her aspects and ingredients. A Seekerís committed behaviour to Nature releases him or her from the law of cause and effect, magnetism and repulsion and manipulation by intrinsic worth of matter. Mortals are born to spiritual opportunities, but we remain handcuffed to our She who Surpasses Thought 5 present life and involve ourselves with humdrum activities for indulgences, name, game, fame, material gains, and riches for possessions. It is said that we are not mortals having a spiritual experience; rather, we are spiritual beings having physical, mortal experiences. Nature is Cosmic Mother Our connection with Cosmic Mother is never-ending. We are all interconnected. For millions of births, every stone, vegetation, animal, bird, and mortal in this Universe was and is connected to our three bodies, physical, astral and causal, through essential elements of food. On a microcosmic as well as on a macrocosmic level, Universal Cosmic Motherís benevolence helped each achieve our endless wishes. It is important that our mind and thoughts are trained first to understand this before we enter the gateway to a Higher Road. There is precious little time in one lifetime to waste even a moment to meaningless wanting, thinking and acting. It is essential to devote our attention to understanding the Cycle of Life-and-Death. Otherwise we have no choice but to take another birth. Outcomes of our actions follow us close behind as shadows. Interpreting Indulgence To Oneís Mind, a seeker must want freedom from habit of a life for pleasure. Wish for every pleasure is a door to physical pain and reentry into the circle of life-and-death. Only a true guru interprets hallucinations of a beautiful body, power, fame, and a life of possessions. A seeker eventually realises there is hardly anything in his life that is worth getting. There is nothing he or she can permanently latch on to. There is nobody Man can trust. It does not matter what prosperity one gets in this life. Consistently it misleads and misinforms when worn for indulgence only. After educated and clear thinking the student has the ability to disclose figments of imagination. Enjoyment of indulgence gives transient gladness. By this time, the seeker develops rejection and pleads for definitive delight and independence. Introducing Student to Consecrated Life Man realises he or she has arrived at shores of a unique but distinct destination. It is nonspecific but its power is emphatic. Only a Master has the ability to take you down a path of recollection. Each of us is a godly and beloved child of Mother Nature. Her orphans were never abandoned. Her children just strayed from Home. Adopted by materialism Nature still waits patiently for Her children to return into Her embrace. A return journey needs showing. Leadership under direction is implied. Ground rules are implicit. Life styles are adjusted according to rules of yama and niyama. They need obeying through watchfulness of all activities of body, mind and speech. Only then are mistakes in thought, speech and action prevented. Morals and ethics are foundations of successful journeys back home. Even a single minor 6 The Cosmic Connection misdeed leads to bigger setbacks. They compel the student back into the cycle of life-and-death. A student must have qualities of character that characterize what says, ìDo all your work, but be watchful of your motive behind it. Do everything for the sake of serving That who endures in all name and form. Adhere to pure duty with no selfish wishes, egocentric motives or personal pleasure. Everyone should Nature by following the call of duty and status in life. Jiva or individual is no different from Spirit or Ishwara. Lord of this realm is in all forms ñ also trees, shrubs, animals and birds. Serve water and do not contaminate it. Serve Earth, it should not be polluted. Do not expose filth to clean rays of the sun and moon. Even the sky and wind should be dirt-free and wholesome. The reason for decontaminating an individual is to sanitize the Whole. Getting rid of impurities in Man provides maximum repayment.î A student asked, ìWhen everything is the Form of Lord, what is the logic of seeing the good or bad?î Teacher replied, ìUntil mind gives up its habit of viewing attraction and repulsion, student must follow rules of yama and niyama.î ìWhat is that?î Yama includes truth ñ ; nonviolence ñ ; celibacy ñ brahmacharya; non-stealing ñ asteya; noncovetousness ñ aparigraha; aloofness ñ asangata; shame ñ lajja; non-hoarding ñ asanchay; unselfish ñ asakta; silence ñ maun; stillness ñ sthirta; forgiveness - kshama and fearlessness - abhay. Yama is practiced while interacting with others. They are also qualities of Nature. She alone grants the seeker with qualities such as power, charm, happiness and beauty. include cleanliness ñ shauch; - rosary ñ ; austerity - tapa; fire worship - havan; faith - shraddha; service of guest - atiti ; ritualistic worship - puja; visiting places of - teerthyatra; obliging others - paropkara; contentment - santosh, and service to teacher - guru seva. Niyamas are for personal purification. Grace of Nature advises, guides, and leads the seeker in the right direction while learning intricacies towards a wanted destination. Influence of sense control and guarded life-style ñ yama-niyama is a balanced mind. It allows the seeker to still body in yogic postures - for long periods of concentration. Asanas are for good health. Pranayama is for controlling actions. Pratyahara is for controlling senses. Dharana is for concentrating on one subject at a time for purposes of enlightenment. Dhyana is for controlling mind for a period of time. is for immersing object self with subject ñ Self. As long as seeker makes out attraction and repulsion ñ raaga-dvesha, there is no engagement with Nature, and lingers. Her compulsion continually shifts seekerís attention, seeing and deciding. To avoid this, effort is needed to study wholesome or sattvik books, imbibe pure water, live in and mix with truthful people, eat useful meals, work in righteous environments and act according to lofty deep- seated cultural impressions - sanskaras. She who Surpasses Thought 7

Differentiation and Oneness And an intelligent student asks, ìWhen there is only One Essence in All, why have rules of doís and doníts? Why have divisions of good and bad been made?î ìEverything is Spirit. All is Prakriti ñ Nature. Everything is delusion ñ Maya. Everything is composed of atoms ñ anu, of five elements ñ panchbhutas. All actions are the result of particles of energy ñ prana. You cannot reach a satisfying conclusion while trying to discriminating good and bad by measuring properties of objects,î replied Teacher. ìHow then does one achieve nondifferentiation?î ìYoga of meditation is fixed in nondifferentiation but imagines differences.î ìExplain.î ìYoga imagines differences in name and form while simultaneously keeping evenness and oneness.î Detachment and Indifference Only a Master has the love and compassion to lead a student. A sishya who desires uniting with the Lord is led to true Knowledge ñ gyanayoga. Anyone wishing and wanting to change conditions for Nature, is led to karmayoga. One, who has neither detachment nor attachment, is best suited for devotion ñ bhaktiyoga. External research can only reach an object outside itself. To reach a subject, the search must be deep within and by knowing oneself. Only association with sages ñ mahatmas allows breaking away from entrapments. As long as soul or Self remains trapped and mixed with BMI [body-mind-intellect] and until separation is achieved, the seeker remains ensnared in dos and doníts, heaven and hell of body, joys and sorrows of mind and attachment and distastes of intellect. To arrive at such an ëunchanging stateí the seeker needs to become One with That which is Unchanging. Until Master awakens gyanadrishti, through vision of Knowledge, the seeker cannot see Lord in all creatures and objects. Until a seeker has poise towards both a knowledgeable sage or an untrained and illiterate, strong or vulnerable, he or she cannot be considered an enlightened - gyani. Durga is Queen of Materialism and tells every , ëWork hard for your want but never want more than you need.í Or else She is an unbending disciplinarian. Krishna says,î He who sees Me in all creatures, and sees all creatures in Me, is a Yogi. He sees the same essence in all - samdarshi. So see Me, the Lord of lords - paramishwara, in all. And see also, that none are in Me. I am the Spirit - Ishwara. I am the Creation - jagat. It is My one form of Truth ñ the satya swaroop ñ which is in everything.î Durga Saptashati or Chhandi From birth to death, Man wanders along lanes of delusion that he will live forever. He wants and seeks that which gives him pleasure. Every thought binds him to ìMe and Mineí ñ demands made by Ego. Indulgences damage and pampering 8 The Cosmic Connection cannot stop body from falling apart before its time. Unfulfilled wants bind Man to BMI [body-mind-intellect] through senses drunk by of organs of actions. Before long, deeds repeated often enough, become habits, opinions, and obsessions. Recorded in the causal body they dictate Ego. Unaware of a Cosmic Reality and reason for Manís human existence, humankind patent themselves as want, anger, greed, possessiveness, pride, jealousy, lust and ego. Chhandi is comprised of thirteen chapters. In its oral tradition, it existed before1000 BC. Its first written version appeared in Markandeya Purana in Third Century BC. It is anchored in Rig Veda from hymns of Unity and Duality. It received royal patronage from the Gupta dynasty in Fourth Century AD. A study of Chhandi starts as an intellectual search for some or as a tantric tool. Legend has it that those who devotedly recite Chhandi are protected by Durga in all Her nine forms. Devotional learning of Chhandi allows it to reveal itself. Such awareness allows intuitive view of Universal Intellect and its Cosmic Connection. Such wisdom does away with wants and attachments of Ego. Nature is infested with asuric or ungodly fires and daivic or godly - forces. Only Nature has a treatment for both these armed forces. Chhandi describes how Ego (Mahishasura) becomes King of three worlds and all thought armies, both creative - rajasic and slothful ñ tamasic, become his servants. Under the leadership of Confusion (Chikshura), Fickleness (Chamara), Haughtiness (Udgara), Deception (Mahahanu), Hypocrisy (Bidaala), Frustration (Asiloman), Wandering-Thoughts (Parivrita), Memories (Bhashkala), Arrogance (Udhata), Bad-mouthing (Durmukha), Temptation (Duradhra), Disbelief (Karala), Temper (Ugrasya), and Passionate Want (Ugravirya), wicked thought-soldiers attack Mother Nature. Confusion (Chikshura) who is Egoís General, obscures Truth through misunderstanding. They cannot repossess their divine birthright of purity. They end trapped in the darkness of suffering triggered by want and uninhibited desire. Every character of Chhandi is thought. Chhandi describes battles and conflicts within creative - devic thoughts and asuric - negative thoughts. They are collectively, ëarmies of thoughtsí. display self-centered tamasic thoughts. Devas have creative rajasic thoughts with clear perception. Weapons they both carry embody spiritual disciplines or supports of tantric worship. When Conceit (Shumbha) interacts with Self-Devaluation (Nishumbha) they inspire selfishness. Self-Devaluation (Nishumbha) prefers complaining about his sad upbringing instead of dealing with his habit of belittling himself and blaming others is prominent in Nishumbha. Durga is Chhandi. She who is the harmonious ñ a sattvic Light-Energy that tears apart flawed notions. Egoistic judgment and requests are ripped apart - including their seed (Raktabij). Durga introduces Herself I am the intrinsic nature of Awareness-Consciousness. From Me both Nature She who Surpasses Thought 9 or prakriti as Awareness and Consciousness or Purusha have taken birth. This world of real existence and unreal appearance are both my Creation. My Form is both of bliss and without-bliss. I am wisdom and the lack of it. I am understanding and lack of it. I exist as atom of elements as well as when integrated into names and forms. I am this entire visible and invisible Universe. I am disharmony and harmony. I am both wisdom and ignorance. I am born and unborn and I exist above below and beyond. I am to companion those who seek relief from suffering, search for spiritual wealth, purity, enlightenment, and unification through meditation. I escort all who perform acts of devotion, or use creative intelligence in search of Truth and spiritual wealth - Realisation. I am Creativity of All Beings. I am queen of minds that perform spiritual sacrifices. I safeguard seekerís mind with Awareness- Consciousness. I give birth to the Creator as well as Sarasvati reinforces Brahma with Oceanic Knowledge. Habits and Customs of Celestials Every country has its own laws and customs. Celestials - devas are different from humans. They work for humans as smell of earthís seasons, fluidity of water, brilliance of sunlight, warmth of fire, coolness of breeze and sound of music. Those who criticize devas do not realise they are not guided by our norms. The fruit of ñ knowledge of Spirit - tattvagyan is not earned after death. It is understood and experienced here. It leads to a released life, free from habits, attractions, repulsions, and delusions. Man once criticised Devas for their lifestyle. Mother Nature asked who gives a human authority to criticize, punish or adulterate Devas. For punishment Nature pushed humans into demonic wombs - asuric yonis. Devas do much for human beings, apart from forecasting events to come. They roam forests, distressed to see the plight of humans and pray to Mother Nature to open Her heart in Love and set them free. Devic Energies were distressed with the plight of humans and jointly prayed: ìWe take refuge in You who is Fire that illumines wisdom in meditation, who awards rightful fruits of every action, Oh Durga, Reliever-of-Difficulties...Oh Chhandi, who Destroys all Thoughts, we pledge our love and service to all living beings in Your Revealed Form as Universe. ìWe prostrate to You. Give us increased wisdom and enlightenment. You are Energy of Individual and Universal Soul. You are Delusion as well as Path to Knowledge. You are Real Wealth. You are therefore queen of knowledge-action- desire. Give us wisdom beyond thought and form and protect us.î Devas pray to Chhandi ìOh Mother, You alone entered Brahma the Creator while Vishnu slept. Greed of Madhu and Insufficiency of Kaitabha saw an opportunity to destroy Him. Brahma 10 The Cosmic Connection feared the worse but You awakened Vishnu and guided destructing Ego - Mahishasura, Conceit - Shumbha, and Self-Devaluation - Nishumbha. ìYou are the Energy that fulfills objectives of human life. Want is gauged by duty and wealth and is used for liberation (---). Grant us an obstacle-free Path for humans. Illumine the meaning of this mantra. all of humankind with excellent virtues. Give us the mystical secret to arrive at perfection.î To such seekers, the Mother prescribed: ìAum aim hrim klim chamundayai viccheiî to be chanted at least 108 times daily. Shiva Converses with Durga In seven verses Shiva describes His conversation with Durga:: shiva uvaacha Shiva asked devi tvam bhakta sulabhe sarva kaarya vidhaayini kalau hi kaarya siddh yartham upaayam bruhi yat natah Oh Devi, You are accessible to all Your seekers. You ensure they earn justifiable fruits of every action. Tell me how seekers arrive at achievement of their needs, especially in this world of delusion. Devy uvaacha Devi said shrunu pravak shyaami kalau sarv eshta saa dhanam mayaa ta vaiva sneha naa pyam baas tutih prakaash yate Durga said: I will describe the Greater Highway of spiritual discipline. I will describe it through Song of Praise of Mother. aum asya shri durgaa sapta shloki mantrasya narayana anushtup chandah sri mahakali maha maha sarasvatyo devataah sri durga prityar tham sapta shloki durga paathe viniyogah This song is of seven verses and is in honor of seven ancestors of humanity - saptarishis. Each verse applies to a Seer ñ rishi, who experienced Durga and gained personal knowledge of a path to their search. These seven verses are recited before chanting Chhandi. 1. gyani naam api chetaam si devi bhagavati hi saa balaa daak rshya mohaa ya maha maya praya chhati Durga as Mahamaya is most supreme Mother of Consciousness who attracts to Her all views of beings away from the ath of ignorance and egoistic attachments. 2. durge smr taa harasi bhitma shesha jantoh svas thaih smr taa mati mativa shu bhaam da daasi daa ridrya duhkha kaa tva danyaa sarvopa kaara kara naaya sadaar dra chittaa Remembering Durga dispels fear. Once thoughts, actions, and speech are She who Surpasses Thought 11

aligned in harmony with spiritual growth, seeker arrives at compassion and intelligence. 3. sarva mangala mangalye shive sarvaar tha saadhike Sharan ye tryam bake gauri narayani namos tute Durga is Lightray of auspiciousness and good. By giving refuge She guides seeker to reach both desire and spiritual wealth. Oh Mother of three worlds, accept our reverence. 4. sharanaa gata dinar ta pari traana paraa yane sarva syaarti hare devi narayani namos tute Your seekers are protected from confusion, helplessness, and unhappiness. Accept our reverence. 5. sarva svarupe sarve she sarva saman vite bhaye bhyas traahi no devi durge devi namos t-te You are the common thread of Energy that permeates and supports expression. You remove fear of finitude and afflictions. Accept our reverence. 6. rogaana sheshaa na paham si tushtitaa rushtaa tu kaamaan saka laana bhish taan tvaamaa-shritaa-naam na vipan-naraa-naam tvaa-maa-shritaa hyaa-shraya-taam prayaanti You remove afflictions as well as frustrate wants. Yet nothing troublesome happens. Your protected devotees become refuge to others. 7. sarvaa baadhaa prashama nam trai lokya syaakhil eshvari evam eva tvayaa kaaryam asmad vairi vinaasha nam Aum As Energy of three worlds, You destroy all disturbances and hostility against You. Manís Search for Enlightenment Once upon a time, Narada asked Sage Vashishta why Man needs Chhandi Paat and help from Durga to remove difficulties from paths of evolution. Vashishta explained Man is so deluded by the power of Mahamaya and Her compulsions gunas, She alone has power to change this. She alone is seed (aim), energy (hrim), and vibration (klim) in three existences (trigun-atma) of humanity as physical, astral and causal being. Intrinsic nature of seed or causal body karana sharira is which is in harmony with of rajoguna (Madhu) of astral body or sukshma sharira and tamoguna (Kaitabh) of the physical body or sthula sharira. Man invokes help from intrinsic nature of Intellect or buddhi to crush Ego or Mahishaasura. Wants - kama living in Manís subtle body need elimination so Hunger (kshudhaa), and Thirst (trishna) do not disturb him. Ability to reflect deeply avoids going astray by thoughts of Conceit (samvaadinyai). Man must not allow Sinful-Eyes (dhumralochana) to use Energy for 12 The Cosmic Connection indulgences. When seeds of want (raktabija) are thwarted, Passion and Anger (chanda and munda) die through introspection, patience (shaanti), and forgiveness (kshamaa). Vashishta continued to describe the path of evolution. Ability to rise above cause and effect of birth (jaam jaati) and thoughts of Self-Devaluation (nishumbha) need overcoming. Instead thoughts of Humility (lajja) will destroy Conceit (shumbha). Vashishta explained that Peace (shaanti) is the fruit (sankalpaphala) of intense thoughts of Faith (shraddhaa). Transformation of the seeker makes him Beautiful (kaanti) and Mother (maatra) grants gifts fit for a king (rajavara pradaayai) with unrestricted greatness (anargala-mahima). He then quotes a mantra: Aum aim hrim klim mahakali mahalakshmi mahasarasvati Svarupinyai triguna atmikaa yai durga devyai namah. With the chanting of the Chhandi, Durga heightens Wisdom (aim), lessens the hold of Maya (hrim) on the seeker who Transforms (klim) through . Having transcended Maya, Chhandi severs all thought, by takeing help from mahakali who removes Darkness and splits Ego (mahishasura). Man now earns Wealth from mahalakshmi and from mahasarasvati, who is Giver of Knowledge about wisdom of the three gunas. Narada introspected for a longtime. He reached the home of his father Brahma. Narada asked for the secret to arrive at spiritual wealth through Chhandi. Brahma addressed his son and gave him Chhandiís mysterious secret. He started by telling Narada about the nine forms of Durga. Each must be sought for help when on a spiritual journey. She protects all Her devotees when remembered in times of elemental disasters, battles, fearful situations, sorrow, pain, and oppositions. To make it easier for Narada to recognise Her nine forms, Brahma described each. First there is Mother-of-Inspiration (shailaputri). Second is Mother-of-Sacred-Study (brahamacharini). Third is Mother-of-Delight-from-Repeated-Practice ( ghanteti). Fourth is Mother-Purifying-Austerity (kushumaadeti). Fifth is Mother-Nurturing- (skanda-maateti). Sixth Mother-who-is-Ever-Pure (kaatyaanyiti) Seventh is Mother-of-Dark-Night-to-Overcome-Ego (kaala-ratri maha-gauriti). Eighth is Mother-of-Radiant-Light (chaashata-mam). Ninth is Mother-who-Gives-Perfection (-daatri).

Brahma explained as She stands on a corpse of Ignorance. When She slays Passion and Anger She is Chamunda . She is One-Worthy-of-being-Desired (varahi) and is recognised as sitting on a buffalo of Perseverance (mahish-aasnaa). As Energy-who-Protects-the-Pure (aindri) She is seen riding an Elephant-of- She who Surpasses Thought 13

Universal-Love (gaja samaa-rudhaa) and As Pervading-Energy (vaishnavi) She sits on an eagle (garud-aasanaa). As Energy-of-Seers (maaheshvari) She rides a bull of discipline (vrshaa-ridhaa). As Energy-of-Purity (kaumari) She rides a peacock (shikhi-vaahanaa). As Mother-of-Wealth (lakshmi) she sits on a lotus of peace (padma-asanaa) As Beloved of Consciousness (hari-priya) She holds a lotus (padma-hastaa). She is dressed in white (sveta-rupa) and is Supreme Energy (ishvari) who is carried by a bull of discipline (vrsh vaahanaa). She is Creative Energy (brahmi) who rides swans () of controlled breath (samaa-rudhaa). Brahma added a final note. These Mothers are connected in succession along a path to union of seeker and sought. He then gives Narada the Chhandi Paat of seven hundred verses. He instructs Narada to wear a protective shield before chanting Chhandi. 14 The Cosmic Connection

Chhandi

Devi Mahatmya is considered important among by Indologists. This is measured by its early translations into European languages. First translated into English in 1823, it was analyzed with excerpts in French in 1824 and translated into Latin in 1831 and again in Greek in 1853. Devi Mahatmya has been translated into most of Indian languages. There are also several commentaries and ritual manuals written. The commentaries and rituals followed vary from region to region depending on their tradition. is celebrated four times a year. They are Ashada Navaratri, Sharada Navaratri, Maha Navaratri and Vasantha Navaratri. Of these, Sharada Navaratri of the month of Puratashi and Vasantha Navaratri of Vasantha Kala are important. If you refer to Purana, then it is said that Puratashi and Panguni (in Tamil months) that is Asvin and Chaitra are like two jaws of Lord Yama. If one wants to escape the mouth of Yama, then one should celebrate Navaratri on these two occasions. A similar analogy is presented in Devi Bhagavatam which also talks in detail on how one should keep fasts, and how one should meditate/work on these days. According to legend, Durga sat on the tip of a needle for nine days, doing severe penance to destroy the evil Mahisha. On the first three days, she meditated as Kali, the next three days as Mahalakshmi and the last three days as Sarasvati. This shows progression from tamsik, to rajasik to sattvik and eventually earning liberation. The tenth day during Sharada Navaratri is called vijaya dashami to stand for victory on the day of dashami. It is, however, a long tradition that one reads devi-bhagavatam or the Devi Mahatmyam (Durga saptasati, 700 verses on Durga) during this time. Devi Bhagavatam notes that meditated and fasted for nine days after was kidnapped by Ravana. There are many such incidents on how peopleís needs were contracted. Reading of Devi Mahaatmayam during Navaraatri The reading of Devi Maahaatmyam during Navaraatri is to be done follows: Chapter 1 Madhu kaitabha samhaara is read on the 1st day; (Page 42) Chapter 2 through 4 Mahishhasura samhaara) is read on 2nd day; (Page 65) Chapter 5 and 6 Dhuumralochana vadha are chanted on the 3rd day; (Page 92) Chapter 7 Chanda Munda vadha is fixed for 4th day; (Page 96) Chapter 8 Rakta biija samhaara for the 5th day; (Page 103) Chapter 9 and 10 Shumbha Nishumbha vadha on the 6th day; (Page 112, 118)

14 Chhandi 15

Chapter 11 Praise of Narayani on the 7th day; (Page 123) Chapter 12 Phalastuti on the 8th day; (Page 132) Chapter 13 to Suratha and the Merchant on 9th day; (Page 138) Chapter 14 Aparaadha Kshama on the 10th day. (Page 144)

The story of Devi Mahatmaya presents an expelled king, a merchant betrayed by his family, and a sage whose teachings lead them beyond suffering of human existence. The sage teaches by recounting three different epic battles between Durga Devi and wicked thought opponents. Mahakali influences Chapter 1; Mahalakshmi governs Chapters 2-4 and Mahasaraswati regulates Chapters 5-13. Most famous is the story of Mahishasura Mardini ñ Devi as ìSlayer of the Buffalo Demonî. Important goddess forms of the Devi Mahatmyam are Kali and Sapta-Matrika (ìSeven Mothersî). Goddess Ambika or Durga leads the Eight in Battle against the Demon Raktabija ñ they are Narashmi, Vaishnavi, Kumari, Maheshvari, Brahmi, Varahi, Aindri, and Chamunda or Kali. These are different from Ten used in devotional . The Chandi within in this book follows a set of 2 cdís chanted by the of Benaras. The set is called ìDurga Chandi Paatî manufactured by Jet Speed Auto Ltd. (NCCD 0079/80). 16 The Cosmic Connection

Atha Devi-Kavacham

Protective Shield of the Devi Devi Mahatmayam picked up several ìlimbsî or ìadditionsî or angas over the years. Evidence suggests that angas were associated with the text since the fourteenth century.î They are chiefly concerned with ritual use of Devi Mahatmayam and based on the assumption the text will be recited aloud in the presence of images. (Cd 1: One of Durga Chaandi Paat) nama shri chandikaaya Aum I bow to Devi-Who-Destroys-Thoughts maarkandeya uvaacha Markandeya said: 1. yad guh yam paramam lokey sarva rakshaa karam nr naam yanna kasya chidaa khyaatam tanme bruhi pitaa-maha Aum, Brahma. Tell me the Mysterious Secret - which although not publicised, affords protection to humanity when chanted. brahmo-uvaacha 2. asti guhya tamam vipra sarva bhuto pakaarakam devyaastu kavacham punyam tacchr nusva mahaamune Brahma, the Creator said: There is a mystical secret about the benefits and existence of a protective shield given to seekers by Shakti. Listen to what I have to say: 3. pratha mam shaila pootri cha dviti yam brahma chaarini tritiyam chandra ghan teti kushmaan deti chatur thakam First, She is Shailaputri-who-Inspires-Oneness. Next, She is Brahmacharini-of- Sacred-Study providing a ëmapí to the destination. Third, She is Chandra- ghanteti-who-takes Delight of Practice. Fourth, She is Kushmaadeti who purifies austerity of self-study or sadhana. 4. pancha mam skandamaa teti shashtam kaat yaayan iti cha Sapta mam kaala raatriti mahaa gauri chaashta mam Fifth, She is Skandamaateti who nurture Divinity in seekers. Sixth, She is Katyayani-who is ever Pure. Seventh, She is Kalaratri mahagauri the goddess fighting the Dark Night for Overcoming Ego. Eighth, She is Chaashta maam ñ Mother of Radiant-Light. 5. nava mam sidhi dhaatri cha nava durgaha prakirti taaha Uktaanye taani naamaani Brahma naiva mahaat manaa

16 Atha Devi-Kavacham 17

Ninth, She is Sidhidhatri who grants Perfection. These nine Durgas are relievers of Difficulties. They are listed by the great soul of Nature. It is blessed as a mystical secret. 6. agninaa dahya maanastu shatru madhya gato rane vishame durgame chaiva bhayaarttaah sharanam gataaha Whenever a devotee is amid calamities, or among of enemies on a batlefield, or consumed by worry and fear, if a devotee calls on Her, She gives refuge. 7. na thesham jaa yate kinchid ashoo bham rana sanmkate naa-padam tasya pashyaami shoka dukha bhayam na hi No opposition will defeat a devotee of Chhandi. No injury incurred in battle. There is no sorrow, nor pain nor fear for Her devotee. 8. yaistu bhaktyaa smritaa nunam teshaam vriddhih prajaa yate ye tvaam smaranti deveshi rakshase taanna samshayah By remembering Her in devotion, She ends all ill will and brings prosperity. Be assured Her protection is eternally there. 9. samsthaa tu chaamundaa vaaraahi mahishaa sanaam aindri gaja samaa rudhaa vaishnavi garud aasanaa When She slays Anger and Passion She sit on a corpse of Unawakened Awareness or avidya, as Chamundi ñ Destroyer of Chanda-Munda. For seekers desiring union with Her, She sits on a buffalo of Perseverance - Mahishasana. As Varahi She is Desirous of ruling the Pure with Love. As Aindri She Protects Purity and rides Her mystical elephant of Universal Love. As Vaishnavi, She pervades radiant Energy, and sits waiting on a brilliant bird for the extrovert mortal. 10. maheshvari vrshaa rudhaa kaumaari shikhi vaahanaa lakshmih padma asanaa devi padmaahas taa haripriya As Maheshvari She is Energy of Seers that rides the bull of Discipline. As Kaumari, She is Energy of Purity riding Shikhi , the peacock of Beauty. As Lakshmi, the Mother of True Wealth sits on Padma , the Lotus of Peace. As Haripriya who is Beloved of Consciousness, She awaits blossoming of the lotus She holds in Her hand. 11. shvetarupa dharaa devi ishvari vrisha vaahanaa braahmi hamsa sama roodhaa sarvaa bharana bhoo shitaa Dressed in white She is Ishvari, Supreme Energy carried on Vrish vahana - a bull of Discipline. As Brahmi Her Creative Energy rides swans of breath-control. She wears symbolic ornaments and tools of scientific breathing. 12. ityetaa maata rah sarvaah sarva saman vitaaha naanaa bharana shobhaa dhyaa naanaa ratno pasho bhitaaha All these Mothers are interdependent and interconnected in rising path of Union with Her seeker. Each stage of success is depicted by a display of Her Jewels-of-Perfection. 18 The Cosmic Connection

13. drshyante rathamaa rudhaa devyah krodha samaa kulaah shankham chakram gadaam shaktim halam cha musalaa yudham When they are angry or agitated, mount their chariots and put into motion, vibrations of time and union of articulation. Discharge of such Energies sow seeds of Truth to create Wisdom with pestle of refinement. 14. kheta kam tomaram chaiva parashoom paasham eva cha Kuntaa yudham trishulam cha shaarnga maayudham uttamam With shield of Method, javelin of Effort, battle-axe of Good Actions, net of Unity, spear of Concentration, trident of Harmony, and bow of Determination. 15. daityaa-naam deha-naa-shaa-ya bhaktaa-naama-bha-yaa-ya cha dhara-yant-yaa-yu dhaanit-thaam deva-naam cha hitaaya-vai Devis display weapons used for Thought-Control, and instill Fearlessness for Welfare of Collective Good. 16. stu mahaa raudre mahaa ghora paraa krame Mahaa bale mahot saahe mahaa bhaya vinaa shini We, bow to all Your Forms - to Maharaudre the Fierce One; to Mahaghora the Great One; to Mahabale the One of Great Strength; to Mahotsahe the Giver of Joy; to Mahabhaya the Destroyer of Fear, and to Mahabhaya Vinashini the One with Powers of Annihilation. 17. traahi maam devi dush prekshye shatrunaam bhaya vard dhini Praach yaam rakshatu maam aindri aagney yaam agni devataa Protect me Oh Devi, who is difficult to make out, yet, is able to put fear into our unseen enemies. May your Energy rule and protect me in the East and Southeast during meditation. 18. dakshine vatu vaaraahi nair rtyaam khadga dhaarini prati chyam vaaruni rakshed vaaya vyaam mriga vaahini From the South may You fulfill my Want for Union in meditation. From the Southwest, allow me Worship. From the West, may Your Energy give me Equilibrium and Protection. From the Northwest, let me ride your deer of Enthusiasm. 19. udi chyaam paatu kaumari aishaa nyaam shula dhaarini urdhvam brahmaani me raksheda dhastaad vaishnavi tathaa From the North, may the Pure One protect me; From the Northeast, allow me the power of Concentration. From above, let your Creative Energy protect me. From below let Your energy pervade all. 20. evam dasha disho rakshec chamundaa shava vaahanaa jayaa me chaagratah paatu vijayaa paatu prash thatah And let all ten directions be protected by Chamundi who is seated on a corpse of Ignorance and destroys Passion and Anger. May Victory protect my front Atha Devi-Kavacham 19

and may Conquest protect my back. 21. ajitaa vaama paarshve tu dakshine chaaparaa jitaa shikhaa mudyo tini rakshed umaa murdhini vyava-sthitaa Stand by my left side disallowing defeat. On my right, make me unconquerable. May Light enter and guard the crown of my head. Safeguard Life Force, aum into my head. 22. maalaa dhaari lalaate cha bhru vau rakshed yashas vini trinetraa cha bhruvor madhye yam aghantaa cha naasike May the Garlanded-One protect my forehead between eyebrows, where the center for welfare (Kutastha Chaitanya) sits. Please protect the divine cave where restrained sound of AUM passes through the nose. 23. shankini chakshu shor madhye shrotra yordvaa ravaasini kapolau kaalikaa rakshet mule tu shaankari She who bears vibration (aum) between eyes, through ears, and is dweller as intelligence at doors of all senses; exists as Time in cheeks; as Energy that protects behind ears; and as Energy which causes Peace. 24. naasikaa yaam sugan dhaa cha utta roshate ch charchi kaa adhare chaamrta kalaa jihvaa yaam cha sarasvati She who exists as Scent in nose, as Taste in upper lip, as Nectar on lower lip, and as Spirit of all Knowledge on tongue , may You protect me. 25. dantaan rakshatu kaumari kantha deshe tu chandikaa ghanti kaam chitra ghantaa cha mahaa maayaa cha taaluke May Chandika protect teeth and throat. She who tears apart thoughts, as Aum of many tones from uvula, may she protect measures of Awareness in the palate. 26. kaamaakshi chibu kam rakshed vaacha me sarva mangalaa Grivaa yaam bhadra kaali cha prishta vamshe dhanoor dhari May principle and reason for Love protect the chin. May Welfare control my speech; May you remove darkness from my neck (pride) for the sake of a collective good. Help determination uphold long hours of asana for dhyana with an erect spine. 27. nila grivaa bahih kante nail kaam nala koobari skandha yoh khad gini rakshed baahu me dhaarini In the outer neck, You display as Blue-Necked-One. In the throat, You reveal as Song of inspirational Devotion. You live in shoulders, wielding sword of Worship, and arms You exist as Illumination - may You protect. 28. hastayor dandini rakshed ambikaa chaangu lishu cha Nakhaan chulesh vari rakshet kukshau rakshet kulesh vari May Energy that insists on discipline, protect my hands. May Mother of Universe harmonise my fingers with the Universe. Allow Harmony to protect my nails. May Mother of Family protect stomach from hunger. 20 The Cosmic Connection

29. stanau rakshen mahaa devi manah shoka vinaashini hridaye lalithaa devi udare shula dhaarini May Mother who Destroys Sadness protect my chest and remove all Mindís sorrow. May She remain in the heart [love], in the abdomen [devotion], as Shuladharini for Concentrated Self-Control. 30. naabhau cha kaamini rakshed guh yam guh yeshvari tathaa putanaa kaamikaa medhram gude mahisha vaahini May Devi of Love, protect the navel, [manipura ] where you exist as Guhyeshvari ñ Queen of Mystical Secrets; May you protect organs of reproduction [svadhisthana chakra]. May you protect organs of elimination [muladhara chakra] while riding on Mahishavahini ñ the buffalo of Perseverance. 31. katyaam bhagavati rakshej jaanuni vindhya vaasini jhange mahaa balaa rakshet sarva kaama pradaayini May You protect hips which support the torso above and knees for mobility from where She explores Knowledge. May Supreme Mother who grants all wants protect both flanks with Great Strength. 32. gul phayor naara simhi cha paada prisht the tu taijasi paad aanguli shu shri rakshet paadaa dhashtala vaasini May Narasimhi- Mother of Courage & Fortitude protect ankles. May She who Warms and Lights tops of feet protect them as well as toes that lead to Prosperity. Protect soles of feet where You linger as Supreme Support. 33. nakhaan dham shtraa karaali cha keshaamsh chai vordhva keshini roma kupeshu kauberi tvacham vaag ishvari tathaa May this Maternal Energy with Tusks protect hair, pores of body surface and skin. . May You vitalise them with Energy which rules vibrations of Aum. 34. rakta majaa vasaa maamsaany asti medaamsi parvati antraani kaala raatris cha pittam cha mukut eshvari May Parvati ñ daughter of Spiritual-Discipline protect my blood, marrow, fat, flesh, bones, bile and lymph. May Mukteshvari - who on the Dark Night of Overcoming Ego protect and reign sovereign. 35. padmaa vati padmaa koshe kaphe chudaa manis tathaa jvaalaa mukhi nakha jvaalaam abhedhyaa sarva sandhishu May Padmavati sitting on Lotus-of-Peace protect the lungs and bodily fluids. May Jvalamukhi the Radiant-Mother give luster to nails and protect all joints. 36. shukram brahmaani me rakshech chaayaam chatr eshvari tathaa kaaram mano budhim rakshen me dharma dhaarini May Brahmani - Mother of Creative Energy protect the force [ojas] of sexual secretions from waste through indulgence. Protect me like an from shadows of ego, mind, and intellect (chitta). May Dharmadharini ñ Mother of Atha Devi-Kavacham 21

Truth and Wisdom walk me towards enlightenment. 37. praanaa paanau tathaa vyaanam udaanam ca samaana kam vajra hastaa cha me rakshet praanam kalyaana shobhanaa You who hold the power of illumination, protect my life, my welfare and five pranas (breaths) of my body. 38. rase roope cha gandhe cha shabde sparshe cha satvam tamas chaiva rakshen narayani sadaa May You who Discloses Awareness, coordinate the five senses with feeling [chitta]. May Consciousness of Knowledge expose wants that encourage indulgence. 39. aayoo rakshatoo vaaraahi dharmam rakshatu vaishnavi yasha kirtim cha lakshmi cha dhanam vidyaam cha chakrini May Wish for Union (yoga) protect life with Energy that Pervades All. Protect the Path to Truth and Wisdom. May Mother of Time protect welfare, reputation, prosperity, true wealth, and knowledge arrived at over Time. 40. gotram indraani me rakshet pashun me raksha chandike pootraan rakshen mahaa lakshmir bhaar yaam rakshatoo bhairavi May Energy that rules the Pure protect my lineage; may She protect my children and spouse. May Destroyer of Thought protect my natural world and grant us with true wealth. 41. panthaa-nam supa thaa rakshen maargam kshemakari tathaa raja dvare mahaa lakshmir vijayaa sarva taah stithaa May Mother-of-Spiritual-Paths protect my path. May Mother-of-Salvation show me the way. May Mother-of-True-Wealth protect me at the royal gateway into victory. 42. rakshaahi nam tu yasthaa nam varjitam kava chena tu tat sarvam raksha me devi jayanti paapa naashini Protect me also from all quarters not mentioned. Oh Mother-who-Conquers- and-Destroys-Sins become my protective shield. 43. padam ekam na gachettu yadic chec chubham atmanaha kavachenaa vrto nityam yatraiva gacchati For the welfare of my soul do not let me walk the path without my protective shield. 44. tatra tatr aartha laabhash cha vijayah saarva kaamikah yam yam chintayate kaamam tam tam praapnoti nish chitam param aishvaryam atulam praap syate bhutale pumaan Let me carry out the objective of my human existence. Let me conquer all wants, by following the right path. By following the spiritual path Man becomes Sovereign of All that is needed. 22 The Cosmic Connection

45. nirbhayo jaayate martyaha sangraam eshva paraa jitaha trai lokye tu bhavet pujyah kavachenaa vrtaha pumaan Having gained victory over every battle, he has control over his own mortality He wears Chhandiís protection and is worthy of veneration in all three worlds. 46. tu devyaah kavacham devaanaam api durla bham yah pathet prayato nityam tri sandhyam shraddha yaan vitaha This mantra of Chhandi is the armor of Mother of Universe. It is difficult even for gods to arrive at its true significance. Whoever recites this mantra three times daily with faith and self-control, gets protection. 47. daivi kalaa bhavet tasya trailokye shva paraa jitaha jived varsha shatam saagram apa vivar jitaha They will gain Grace of Shakti and become unconquerable. He lives a hundred years and his death is from natural causes. 48. nashyanti vyaadha yah sarve lutaavi sphota kaada yaha sthaavaram jangamam chaiva krtri mam chaapi yad vishaam This shield makes the physical body free from injury and disease. 49. abhi chaaraani sarvaani mantra yan traani bhu tale bhoo charaah khe charaash chaiva jala jaashco pade shikaha The seeker is immune to mantras, amulets, earth, air, or water dwellers, 50. sahajaa kulajaa maalaa daakini shaakini tathaa antar iksha charaa ghoraa dhaakinyash cha mahaa balaah He is also unharmed by those who feed on flesh, vegetable or terrible beings who live in air or water and have great strength. All have no effect on seekers who wear protection or kavach of Chhandi. 51. graha bhuta pishaach aashcha raakshasaa brahma raakshasa vethaa laah kush maandaa bhairavaa dayah The seeker is also unharmed by planets or celestials and demonic beings, goblins, demons of disease. Those proud of their learning have no effect on a seeker or sadhak. 52. nash yanti darshanaat tasya kavache hrdi sam stite maanon natir bhaved raajnas tejo vridhi karam param All perish at the sight of one with a protective shield of Chhandi around. The seekerís magnetic powers of respect and excellence become obvious. 53. ya shasaa vard dhate sopi kirti mandita bhootale japet sapta shatim chandim krtvaa tu kavacham puraa The seekerís welfare and fame gains prominence; But first the seeker must recite this shield or kavach by chanting 700 verses of Chhandi. 54. yaavad bhoo mandalam dhatte sashaila vana kaananam taavat tisthati medin yaam santa tih putra pautri ki Atha Devi-Kavacham 23

Reciters of Chhandi shall always have sons and grandsons occupying earth, as long as there are trees and forests. 55. dehaante paramam sthaanam yat surair api durla bham praapnoti purusho nityam mahaa maayaa prasaada tah At the end of the earthly existence, Mahamaya-the-Mother-who-Measures-Cause- and-Effect gives the seeker his dues and he reaches heaven. 56. tatra gachati gatvasau poonash chaa-gamanam nahi labhate paramam staanam shivena saha-modate The seeker shall arrive at supreme goodness and enjoy perfect bliss. Iti shri markandeya purane hari har brahmavir chitam devi kavacham samaaptam Here ends the Chapter on the protective shield of Chhandi. Purpose of Kavach is to seek Her protection when Chhandi is invoked by chanting: vidheragyanen dravinavirhenalasataya Vidheyashakyatvattva charanyorya chyutirbhut tadetat kshantavyam janani sakaloddharini shive Kuputro jayet kwachidapi kumata na bhavti O Mother, neither do I know any incantation nor do I have a mystical talisman. I donít know any hymn either. I have no idea how to invoke you or how to meditate on you. I neither know your story nor your glory, nor do I know meanings of your various stances. I am not given to weeping in distress. But one thing I know for certain that by seeking shelter under your protection, there is definite end to all afflictions. O Loving Mother, while asking for redemption for all afflicted, I do not know how to worship. I neither have assets nor character of service because of my callous nature; I lack special familiarity on how to conduct worship. But as I give service to you, forgive me for intentional and unintentional lapses. Forgiveness is expected from a Mother ñ because there can be a flawed son but never a terrible mother. Mystical traditions associated with Chhandi reveal that a sufficient amount of faith is necessary to arrive at this stage where seeker has reached. Mantras of Saptashati are vaulted and fastened by ëpinsí or bolts. Chanting Chhandi opens door to its undeclared secret. 24 The Cosmic Connection

Atha Argalaa Strotram

Prayer to unfasten bolts of existence imprinted as reactions from past doings through lust-kama, anger-krodha, greed-lobha, possessiveness-moha, and pride-matsarya. These are recorded in oneís personality as habits and wants. aum asya shri argalaa stotra mantrasya vishnur rishi anush toop chanda shri mahalakshmi devataa shri jagadamba prityarthe sapta shati paath aanga tvena jape viniyogah This presenting mantra is asking that all bolts of past be unfastened while Chhanadi is being chanted. The Seer is Vishnu of all pervading Consciousness. Deity is Mahalakshmi. These verses are offered to the Universal Mother Jagadamba. Oum namah chandikayai bowing to Mother who destroys Thought Markandeya uvacha 1. aum jaya twam devichamundei jaya bhutaarti haarini jai sarvagate devi kaal raatri namostute Markendeya said Om we bow to you who destroys thoughts of want and anger in our daily existence. We also bow to her who obscures Manís fight against ego on the dark night. 2. jayanti mangalaa lali bhadrakali kapaalini durga ksham shiva dhatri swaha swadha namostute We offer this old prayer to the one who supports revealed universe; and to Bhadrakali who erases Time, Darkness of Ignorance and relieves difficulties through loving forgiveness 3. madhu kaitabha virdraavi vidhaatra varadey namaha rupam dehi jayam dehi yasho dehi dvisho jahi We offer praise to Mother who destroys Greed and Self-interest. We seek your presence in all actions, in removing hostilities and in all victories. 4. mahishasura nir naashi bhaktanaam sukhdey namah rupamdehi jayamdehi yasho dehi dvisho jahi We offer praise to one who destroys Ego and gives Happiness. We seek your presence in all actions to remove hostilities. 5. dhumra detravade devi dharma kaama artha daayini rupam dehi jayam dehi yasho dehi dvisho jahi We offer praise to one who destroys corrupt expressions when true practice four aims of life: dharma-duty; artha-prosperity; kama-desire; and moksha-

24 Artha Argalaa Strotram 25

liberation. We seek your presence in all actions to remove hostilities. 6. raktabij vadhe debi chanda mundavi naashini rupam dehi jayam devi yasho devi dvisho jahi We offer praise to She who destroys Greed, Self-interest and Passion. We seek your presence in all actions to remove hostilities. 7. nishumbha shumbhani naash trailokya shumbhde namaha rupam dehi jayam dehi dvisho jahi We offer praise to She who destroys Pride, Conceit and Depression. We seek your presence in all actions to remove hostilities. 8. vandit aangi yuge devi sarva saubhaagya daayini rupam dehi jayam dehi yasho dehi dvisho jahi We offer praise at your feet asking for blessings of good. We seek your presence in all actions to remove hostilities. 9. achintya rupa charite sarva shatru vinashini rupam dehi jayam dehi yasho dehi dvisho jahi We offer you praise who is of unimaginable form and able to destroy all antagonism. We seek your presence in all actions to remove hostilities. 10. natebhyaha sarvadaa bhaktya chaparne duri taapahe rupam dehi jayam dehi yasho dehi dvisho jahi We offer our praise and devotion to one who removes distress in devotees. We seek your presence in all actions to remove hostilities. 11. stuvad bhyo purvam twam chandike vyadhi nashini rupam dehi jayam dehi yasho dehi dvisho jahi We offer praise to one able to erase thought and its interference in spiritual journeys. We seek your presence in all actions to remove hostilities. 12. chandike satatam yugdhe jayanit paap nashini rupam dehi jayam dehi yasho dehi dvisho jahi We offer praise to She who erases negative thoughts. We seek your presence in all actions to remove hostilities. 13. dehi saubhagya maarogyam dehi me paramam sukham rupam dehi jayam dehi yasho dehi dvisho jahi We offer praise who grants health, beauty and happiness in spiritual journeys. We seek your presence in all actions to remove hostilities. 14. videhi devi kalyaanamvidehi paramam shriyam roupam dehi jayam dehi yasho dehi dvisho jahi We offer you praise and ask for personal prosperity and for communal welfare. We seek your presence in all actions to remove hostilities. 15. videhi dvishtaam naasham videhi bala moochakaih\ rupam dehi jayam dehi yasho dehi dvisho jahi 26 The Cosmic Connection

We seek your grace to achieve high for welfare of common good. We seek your presence in all actions to remove hostilities. 16. suraasura shiro ratna nighrashta charan ambike rupam dehi jayam dehi yasho dehi dvisho jahi We offer praise at the feet of Ambika who enlightens gods and enemies alike. We seek your presence in all actions to remove hostilities. 17. vantam yashas vantam lakshmi vantam janam kuru rupam dehi jayam dehi yasho dehi dvisho jahi We prostrate and seek Lakshmiís gift of Knowledge and Prosperity for Service. We seek your presence in all actions to remove hostilities. 18. dehi prachanda dordanda darpa nisudhini rupam dehi jayam dehi yasho dehi dvisho jahi We seek relief to stop unnecessary unhelpful thoughts arising from ego and habit. We seek your presence in all actions to remove hostilities. 19. chaturbhuje chatur vaktra samstute parameshwari rupam dehi jayam dehi yasho dehi dvisho jahi We, like the four-faced Brahma who knows your Energetic supremacy over all, offer you our praise. We seek your presence in all actions to remove hostilities. 20. krishnena samstute devi shashvad bhaktyaa sad ambike rupam dehi jayam dehi yasho dehi dvisho jahi We, like Krishna who knows you are the true sustainer of your world, offer you praise. We seek your presence in all actions to remove hostilities. 21. himachala sutanatha samstute param eshwari rupam dehi jayam dehi yasho dehi dvisho jahi We, like Shiva your husband who knows you are Sovereign Energy daughter of Himalayas, offer you praise. We seek your presence in all actions to remove hostilities. 22. indranipati sadbhava pujite param eshwari rupam dehi jayam dehi yasho dehi dvisho jahi We offer you praise who is Energy in Indraís domain of the pure. We seek your presence in all actions to remove hostilities. 23. devi bhakta janad daamad atanando dayembike rupam dehi jayam dehi yasho dehi dvisho jahi We offer praise to Ambika ñ Mother of Universe who provides devotees with inexpressible peace and tranquillity. We seek your presence in all actions to remove hostilities. 24. patni manor maam dehi mano vritanu sarinim rupam dehi jayam dehi yasho dehi dvisho jahi We offer praise to She who decrees harmony between life-partners to carry out noble actions. We seek your presence in all actions to remove hostilities. Artha Argalaa Strotram 27

25. taarini durga samsaar saagara syaa chalodh bhave rupam dehi jayam dehi yasho dehi dvisho jahi We offer you praise who carries us across oceans of existence. We seek your presence in all actions to remove hostilities. 26. idam stotram pathi tvaa tu mahaa stotram pathen narah sat u shapta shati varam aapnoti doorla bham After reciting this hymn you are ready for the hymn of 700 verses. iti shri markandeya puranai argalaa stotram samaaptaam Here ends the First Stotram of Markandeya Purana. 28 The Cosmic Connection

Atha Kilaka Stotram

Invocation to remove the knot of human existence aum asya shri kalika mantrasya shiva rishi shri mahaa-sarasvati devataa shri jagad-ambaa prit-yartham sapta-shati paathaaga tvena jape viniyogah Om We present the mantras of praise to Infinite Awareness (Devi) who removes the bolts or knots of mortal existence (vasanas), Anushtup is the meter, Mahasarasvati (Devi of Knowledge) is the deity. It is to Jagadamba (Mother of Universe) that this saptashati is being offered to. aum namah shri chandika-ya-yai Namas unto the Devi-Who-Destroys-Thoughts markandeya uvaacha Markandeya said: 1. aum vishudha gyana-dehaaya trivedi-divya-chak-shu-she shreya praapti-nimi-taaya namah som-aardha dhaarine Om Pure Knowledge is His body; the three , the vision of His eyes. He is the Cause of the Ultimate Desire for Liberation. We bow to Shiva who wears the half crescent moon of devotion. 2. sarva-metad vijaani-yaan mantraa-naam abhi kilakam sopi kshe-mama-vaapnoti satatam japya-tat-parah All should know these mantras which release the vasanic knots of human existence. He who recites the Chandi constantly, attains peace and security. 3. siddh-yant-yuchaata-naadhini-vastuni-sakalaan-yapi etena-stuva-taam devi stotra maatrena siddhyati All who praise using these mantras attain dispassion for the name and fame of human existence. 4. na mantro nau-shadham tatra na kinchid-api vidyate vinaa jaap-yena sidha-yeta sarvam uch-aata naadi-kam There is not know mantra, tantra, or action that can create dispassion, except repetition of this mantra. 5. sam-graa-nyapi siddh-yanti-loka shankaa-mimaam harah krtvaa nimantra yaa-maasa sarvam-eva-midam shoobham The great reliever who removes all human doubts (Devi) fills the devotee who

28 Atha Trayo-Dasho-Dhyaa-Yah 29

repeates this mantra with bliss. 6. stotram vai chandikaa-yaastu tacha guptam-chakaar saha sam-aaptirna cha poon-yasya taam yathaa vanni yantra-naam This stotra is an adoration of the Devi who destroys the rambling mind. It is no secret that the mantra has no end to its merit. It bestows restraint. 7. sopi kshema-mavaap-noti sarvam-evam-na-sam-sha-yaha krishnaa-yaam vaa chatur-dashyaam -ashta-myaam vaa samaa-hitah Whoever concentrates the mind on the fourteenth and eighth days of the dark lunar side of the month, will attain the bliss of meditation. 8. dha-dhaati prati grah-naati naanya-thaishaa prasi-dati it-tham roo-pena ki-lena mahaa-devena kilitam The devotees give and receive constantly from the Devi. She is pleased only in this activity which frees man from the knots of existence as a mortal. 9. yo nish-kilaam vidhaa-yai-naam nityam japati sam-saphu-tam sa sidhaah-sa ganah sopi gandhar-vo jaa-yate narah Devotees, who have constantly recited this mantra, undo the knots of their earthly existence and attain the heavenly abode of celestial singers. 10. na chai-vaap yata-tas-tasya bhavyam kvaapi-ha jaa-yate naapa mrityu vasham yaati mrito mokshama vaapnu-yaat The devotee is not subject to fear of reincarnation or death. He attains liberation upon leaving the body. 11. gnyaa-tvaa praara-bhya koor-vita na kur-vaano vina-shyati tato gnyaat-vaiva sam-pannam idam praar-bhyate budheih Having understood the basis of the Chandi, one should practice it. Non-practice of it will result in loss of prosperity. Fulfilment of Chandiís promise only comes from it correct understanding - so it has been said by those who know this secret. 12. sau-bhagya-aadhi cha yat kin-chid drish-yate lalanaa-jane tat sarvam tat prasaa-dena tena jaapya midam shoobham All that is beautiful in nature and in women is Chandiís grace. Her divinity should be recited. 13. shanai-stu japya-maane-smin store sam-pati-rucha-kaih bhavat yeva sama-graapi tatah praar-bhyam eva tat Great benefit is attained from softly repeating the Chandi. Louder recitations make one fulfilled. 14. eish-varyam yat-prasaadena sau-bhaagy-aarogya sam-padah shatru-haanim paro moksha stuyate saa na kim janaih When the agenda of the Great Mother is that of universal welfare, health, fulfilment, and the removal of obstacles on the path of good actions, why is it that man refuses to sing Her praises? 30 The Cosmic Connection

15. chandikaam hridaye-naapi yaha smareta satatam naraha hrid-yam kaama-ma-vaap-noti hridi devi sadaa vaseth Whoever remembers the Chandi continuously in his heart - his desire is attained and he will see the devi (with form) as ëAwarenessí in his heart. 16. Agrato-hamoom mahaa-deva-kritam kilaka-vaara-nam nish-kila-nycha tathaa kritvaa pathi-ta-vyam samaa-hitaih If the seeker has no desire before reading the Chandi, the self-controlled seeker sheds all obstacles and becomes one with the Reality (without form) of ëConsciousnessí. This Chandi should be read with a silent mind. Iti shri bhagavatyah kilaka stotram samaapta Comment on Verses 15 and 16: There is a mystical tradition connected to these Mantras. When the devotee is ready, the secret doorway is opened and man enters the realm of Self Realisation where a guru is needed! These two stanzas were translated and explained by Swami Sharadapriyananda during her last visit to Canada in 1999. Devi Mahaatmayam

700 Slokas in praise of Sri Durga who dispels difficulties SRI DURGAAYAI NAMAHA We bow to Mother Durga atha sri durga saptashati The first story of Devi Mahatmya depicts Devi in her universal form as Shakti. Here Devi is central and key to the myth of Creation. It is Her power that induces Vishnuís deep slumber on the waters of Cosmic Ocean before expression of the Universe which is in a continuous cycle of materialization, destruction and remanifestation. Vishnu reclines on Nag Shesha during Yoga Nidra. Two demons arise as thought forms from Vishnuís sleeping body and endeavor to overthrow Brahma who is preparing to create the next cycle of the Universe. Brahma sings to the Great Goddess, asking her to withdraw from Vishnu so he may awaken and slay the demons. Devi agrees to withdraw and Vishnu awakens and defeats the demons. Here Devi serves as the agent who allows the cosmic order to be restored. In the first chapter of Devi Mahatmayam it is said all lives are conscious, but knowledge is connected with senses. Goddess Durga, grants all kinds of prosperity and makes even the wise forcibly attracted [power of gunas] to worldly pleasures with her great power of attraction. This ever-changing world is created by Her. For purposes of deliverance She becomes Supreme Spiritual Knowledge, and is therefore eternal. When She is the cause of bondage to worldly things She turns into the humdrum and is mistress of all, including gods. She is never-ending and therefore beyond Knowledge. She pervades the universe where her Form is called Mother Nature. Yet to help-seeking souls, she appears in different forms.

31 32 The Cosmic Connection

Chhandiís Secret

Atha Praadhaanikam Rahasyam

om asya shri saptashati rahasya trayasya narayana rshir anishtup chandah mahaakali mahalakshmi mahaasarasvatyo devataa yathokta phalaa vaaptyartham jape viniyogah Now to present the three secrets of these 700 verses. Narayana is the prophet, Anushtup is the indicator. Kali is the remover of darkness, Lakshmi is mother of true Wealth and Sarasvati is mother of Knowledge. These are deities of Chhandi who destroys all Thoughts while studying scriptures. To experience the real significance of this scripture, one must know and be able to describe characteristics of their Nature as you recite these mantras of the Chhandi 1. rajo uvaacha The King said: 2. navataaraa me chandikaayaas tvayoditaah eteshaam prakrtim pradhaanam vaktu marhasi Oh great sage [Medhamuni] who in your Wisdom understands, you have explained how expressions of this joint Energy of Durga is able to control and wipe out ungodliness. Now please describe characteristics of this Energyís displays. 3. araadhyam yanmayaa devyaah svarupam yena cha vidhinaa bruhi sakalam yathaavat pranatasya me Oh twice-born I bow to you. Tell me what which intrinsic natures of energy are to be worshipped. Also tell me what worship pleases Her. 4. rishi uvaacha The rishi said: 5. idam rahasyam paramam anaakhyeyam prachakshyate bhaktosite na me kinchat tavaa vaachyam naraadhipa Oh King, this secret is rare and should not be readily revealed. But, since you are devoted to me, I find no cause not to tell you. 6. sarva syaadyaa mahaalakshmis trigunaa parameshvari lakshyaa lakshya svarupaa saa vyaapya krtsnam vya vasthitaa Energy of true Wealth is Mahlakshmi who is Mahamaya. She is awarded with Chhandiís Secret: Atha Praadhaanikam Rahasyam 33

three gunas. She is the first of all Causes. Her intrinsic nature is Maya which is both definable and undefinable. Having identified Her qualities in expressions as Universe, you find She lives in every natural happening. 7. maatulingam gadaam khetam paana paatram cha bibhrati naagam cha yonim cha bibhrati nrpa murddhani She holds in Her hand a pomegranate to symbolize Unity of Creation, a club, a shield and a drinking vessel. On Her upper body, She is wrapped by a snake representing life force. She unites with the Male principle which is Light of Consciousness - Purusha or Shakta with Female principle of Awareness as Prakriti or Shakti. 8. tapta kaanchana varnaabhaa tapta kaanchana bhushanaa shunyam tadakhilam svena purayaamaasa tejasaa Her Mayic beauty is comparable with melted gold and Her golden ornaments. She fills entire mothingness, before space with Her own radiance. 9. shunyam tadakhilam lokam vilokya parameshvari babhaara paramam rupam tamasaa kevalena hi Mahamaya sees nothingness and by Her quality of tamasic darkness, She transforms Herself into another form. 10. saa bhinnaanjana samkaasha damshtraan kitavaraananaa vishaala lochanaa naari babhuva tanu madhyamaa This form is of a beautiful woman whose radiant body is black like soot. Her mouth is beautifully shaped with protruding teeth. Her eyes are large and Her waist is small. 11. khadga paatrashirah khetair alamkrta chaturbhujaa kabandha haaram shirasaa bibhraanaa hi shirah srajam In Her four hands She holds a sword, a drinking cup, a shield and a severed head. Beheaded bodies are Her necklace and She wears a garland of empty skulls. 12. saa provaacha mahaa lakshmim taamasi prama dottamaa naama cha me maatardehi tubhyam namo namah Having appeared as expression of darkness, She of tamasice nergy, is the most excellent Woman among women. Mahakali said to Mahalakshmi who is Mahamaya. ìMother, I bow to You, again and again. Give to Me My names and describe to Me the actions I am to perform.î 13. taam provaacha mahaalakshmi staamasim pramadotta maam dadaami tava naamaani yaani karmaani taani te Then Mahalakshmi who is mahamaya said to Mahakali Mother who removes Darkness: ìI will give You Your names and tasks You will performî. 14. mahaa maayaa mahaa kaali mahaa maari kshudhaa trshaa nidraa trshnaa chaikaviraa kaalaraatrir duratyayaa 34 The Cosmic Connection

You will be known as Mahamaya for Measurement-of-Awareness; Mahakali who removes Darkness; Mahamaari who is the Great-Destroyer; Kshudha who governs Hunger, and Trishna-who controls Thirst: You will also be called Nidra who ushers in Sleep and Chaika who responds to Desires. You will be called Viraa when called to Battle and Kalaratri present at the battle against Ego on that dark night. As Duratyaya you will be Impassable unless all rules are followed. 15. imaani tava naamaani prati paadyaani karmabhih ebhih karmaani te gnyaatvaa yodhite soshnute sukham These are Your names, pointing to all actions which You are to perform. Ones who know Your characteristics through meditation of Your names, arrive at happiness. 16. taamit yuktvaa mahaalakshmih svarupam aparam nrpa sattvaa khyenaati shud dhena gunenendu prabham dadau This Mahalakshmi who is Mahamaya then continued to transform. By Her pure Light, She assumed another form, which had the radiance of the Moon. 17. akshamaal aankusha dharaa vina pustaka dhaarini saa babhuva varaa naari naamaan yasyai cha saa dadau This transformed Lady held in Her hands, a rosary of alphabets, a curved sword, veena [7-stringed musical instrument] and a book. She too was given names. 18. mahaa vidyaa mahaa vaani bhaarati vaak sarasvati aaryaa braahmi kaamadhenur veda garbhaa cha dhishvari You will be known as who is Supreme-Knowledge, Mahavaani of Ultimate-Vibration, Bharati for Light-of-Wisdom, Vaak who is Word Om; Sarasvati who is Spirit of omnipresent Knowledge, Brahmani who is Creative- Energy, Kamadhenu the cow that fulfills all Wishes, Vedagarbha whose womb has all Wisdom and Dhishvari who is mother of Mind. 19. athovaacha mahaalakshmir mahaa kaalim sarasvatim yuvaam janayataam devyau mithune svaanurupatah Then Mahalakshmi-who-is-Mahamaya said to both Mahakali and Mahasarasvati: ìYou produce pairs, male and female, following Your naturesî. 20. ityuktvaa te mahaalakshmi sasarja mithunam svayam hiranyagarbhau ruchirau stri pumsau kama laasanau Thus having commanded them, Mahalakshmi-who-is-Mahamaya first produced Her own pair, a male and female - both beautiful and seated on a lotus. They came from Hiranyabarbha ñ the Golden Womb of Past, also called ìbinduî. 21. brahman vidhe virincheti dhaatarit yaaha tam naram shri padme kamale lakshmit yaaha maataa cha taam striyam Then, Mahalakshmi-who-is-Mahamaya said to Her male youngster: ìYou are Brahma-Knower-of-Consciousness, who also receives systematic worship to the Shining-Creator Brahmaa. To Mahalakshmi she gave names saying, ìPadme- of-Prosperity, Sri-Kamale-the-Lotus, Lakshmi-of-Wealth are names for You.î Chhandiís Secret: Atha Praadhaanikam Rahasyam 35

22. mahaakaali bhaarati cha mithune srjatah saha etayor api rupaani naamaani vadaami te Mahakali-Remover-of-Darkness and Bhaarati-Light-of-Wisdom, also produced their own male and female pairs. I will tell You their names and forms. 23. nilakantham raktabaahum shvetaangam chandra shekharam janayaa maasa purusham mahaakaali sitaam striyam Kali gave birth to a male who had a blue throat, red arms, and a white body. Shiva wore a moon crescent on His forehead. There was a white female child also. 24. sa rudrah shankarah sthaanu ka-pardi cha trilochana trayi vidyaa kaamadhenu saa stri bhaasaksharaa svaraa He will be -who-Relieves-Suffering, Shankara-who-Causes-Peace, Sthaanu- who-is-Permanently with matted hair and three eyes. The female child will be Trayividya-of-Vedas Rig/Yajus/Sama; Kaamadhenu-Desire-Fulfilling-Cow, Bhaasa-for-Language, Kshara-for-Letters, and Svaraa-for-Melody. 25. sarasvati striyam gaurim krshnam cha purusham nrpa janayaa maasa naamaani toyorapi vadaami te Sarasvati-Spirit-of-All-Pervading-Knowledge also brought forth a female child of bright color and a male child who is dark. I will tell you their names. 26. vishnu krishno hrshikesho vaasudevo janaardanah umaa gauri sat chandi sundari subhagaa shivaa Names of male child are: Vishnu-All-Pervading-Consciousness, Krishna-the- Real-Doer, Harikeshava-Ruler-of-Senses, -Lord-of-True-Wealth, and Janardana-Lord-of-Existence. Female child shall be called Uma-Nourishing- Mother, Gauri-Rays-of-Light, Chhandi-who-Destroyed-Thoughts, Sundari-the- Beautiful, Saubhagya-of-Excellent-Fortune and Shivani-Energy-of- Infinite Goodness. 27. evam yuvatayah sadyah purushatvam prapedire chakshush manto nu pashyanti netare tadvido janaa In this way three titled women (Mahalakshmi, Mahakali, and Mahasarasvati) immediately took male forms. Symbolism of this transformation in eyes of Wisdom - ìFather is born-again through the wife as a Sonî. Rare secret is it is She who is repository of He. 28. brahmane pradadau patnim mahaa lakshmir nrpa trayim rudraaya gaurim varadaam vaasudevaaya cha shriyam Mahalakshmi-of-True-Wealth gave Sarasvati-Spirit-of Knowledge to Brahma- of-Creative-Capacity. To Shiva-Reliever-of-Suffering She gave Gauri-Ray-of-Light. To Vasudev-of-True-Wealth was given Lakshmi-of-Ultimate-Prosperity. 29. svarayaa saha sambhuya virinchon damajijanat bibheda bhagavaan rudrastad gauryaaa saha viryavaan 36 The Cosmic Connection

Thus Creative Brahma and Knowledgeable Sarasvati gave birth to Hiranyabarbha ñ the Cosmic Egg with Total Vasanas. Then, Rudra who relieves suffering and Gauri within Her Light caused the egg to crack. 30. andamadhye pradhaanaadi kaaryajaatama bhunnrpa mahaabhut aatmakam sarvam jagat sthaavara jangamam Within the egg were primary atoms of elements, responsibilities of five fundamentals, memories of past existence both movable and immovable. 31. puposha paalayaa maasa tallakshmyaa saha keshavah samjahaara jagat sarvam saha gauryaa maheshvara Then Lakshmi and Vishnu began protecting and nourishing creation. At an appointed Time Maheshvara with Gauri were assigned to cause Dissolution. 32. mahaa lakshmir mahaaraaja sarva sattva mayishvari niraakaaraa cha saa-aaraa saiva naanaabhi dhaanabhrt Mahalakshmi who is Mahamaya and Ruler-of-Truth has quality of Maheshvari- of-Light. She is Inconceivable and yet has form and is known by many names. 33. naamaantarair nirupyaishaa naamnaa naanyena kenachit aum Only Her qualities can be named, yet She cannot be explained by even one of Her names except as aum. utkii-laya utkii-laya utkii-laya tham tham Aum. Increase, increase, transform and cut the ego. Erase fears of ignorance. Remove the knots of the causal state. Remove, remove, remove in devotion, devotion. Rosary of Thirtytwo Names of Durga Reliever-of-Difficulties atha durga dvaa-trim-shan-naama maalaa durga durgaarti shamani durga padvinivaarini Reliever of difficulties.who calms problems.dispeller of problematic difficulties durgamach chedini durga saadhini durga naashini One who cuts down difficulties. Performer of discipline to dispel difficulties. Destroyer of difficulties durgatod dhaarini durga nihantri durgamaapahaa Who holds the whip to difficulties. Who sends difficulties to ruin. Who measures difficulties durgamagyaanadaa durga daityaloka davaanalaa Who makes difficulties unconscious. Who destroys world of difficult thoughts durgamaa durgamaalokaa durgam aatmasvarupini Mother of difficulties. Perception of difficulties. Intrinsic nature of soul of difficulties durgamaarga pradaa durgama vidyaa durgama shritaa One who searches through difficulties. Knowledge of difficulties. Extricator from difficulties Chhandiís Secret: Atha Praadhaanikam Rahasyam 37 durgama gyaana samsthaanaa durga madhyaana bhaasini Continued existence of difficulties. Whose meditation remains despite difficulties. durga mohaa durgamagaa durgam artha svarupini Who deludes difficulties. Who resolves difficulties. Whose intrinsic nature is of the object of difficulties durgam aasura samhantri durgam aayudha dhaarini Annihilator of Ego difficulty. Bearer of weapons against difficulties. durgamaangi durgamataa durgamyaa durgameshvari Refiner of difficulties. Who is beyond difficulties. Accessible in difficulties. Empress of difficulties durgabhimaa durgabhaamaa durgabhaa durgadhaarini Who is terrible to difficulties. Lady of difficulties. Illuminator of difficulties. Who cuts off difficulties naamaavali mimaam yastu durgaayaa mama maanavah Whoever recites this garland of Durgaís names, pathet sarva bhayaan mukto bhavishyati na samshayah Reliever of difficulties, will free one from every fear and difficulty, without a doubt AUM Aum (recite 108 times or as many desired malas) - aum tat sat - 38 The Cosmic Connection

Shivaís Mantras to Parvati

Shiva said to Parvati: Listen to the song which gives the key. With this You can meditate on Chhandi. No armor nor praise unlocks bolts [past actions through decadent want or kama, anger or krodha, greed or lobha, possessiveness or moha, and pride or matsarya] from past births - not even with secrets of Chhandi, nor by ineffective meditation, nor by worship nor by adoration. Cycle of Birth-and Death is governed by action-reaction. By making the right effort to slay anger, greed, possessiveness, lust and ego it is possible to learn laws and ethics of existence. To sit in meditation, knowing no other thought than Chhandi, it is possible to restrain senses, and adhere to morals and practice of self-control. Cutting apart all attachments allows the seeker to sit in asana and withdraw from senses through scientific breath control. Concentration on these mantras give the key to emancipation and excellence. Sattvic asks for Knowledge through self-surrender. Rajasic asks for status, power and authority. Tamasic uses creativity to harm others. Therefore, keep this mantra secret. om aim hrim klim chaamundaayai vichche om glaum hum klim jum sah jvaalaya jvaalaya jvala jvala prajvala prajvala aim hrim klim chaamundaayai vichche jvala ham sam lam ksham phat svaa-haa Om is Infinite vibratory life force existing before Creation. aim is Creative energy wanting from Sarasvati. hrim is invoking power of Preserving energy of Actions by Lakshmi. klim is Kaliís Destructive energy rejecting ignorance for Wisdom. chamundayai is to wipe out Anger and Passion felt in the head. yai Grants blessings. vich is Total Knowledge of che or Consciousness. glaum is Ganapati ñ Creator as first thought who imagined Creation. hum is chanted to cut ego. klim dissolves bondage to physical attachment. joom saha stands for pure-Consciousness. jvaalaaya jvaalaaya is flame of Light-of- Illumination. jvala jvala is wish to burn away egoistic wants. prajvala prajvala is ego beginning to burn by aim that also invokes Sarasvati. hrim invokes Lakshmi while klim also invokes Kali. By reciting chaamunda the slaying and destructive capacity of passion and anger are destroyed. yai seeks to receive benefit of reciterís wish from viche or total Knowledge possibilities. jvala is a search for Illumination of need. ham is for Divine ìSelfî who is sam in All and in every displayed being. The seeker desires ksham for an end of the cycle of life-and-death, which is phat or without a doubt. svaahaa reconfirms the seekerís wishes to become One with God.

38 Shivaís Mantras to Parvati 39

1. namaste rudra rupinyai namaste madhu mardini namah kaitabha haarinyai namaste mahishaardini We prostrate to Energy able to express Herself as Rudra-who-Relieves-Suffering, and who slays Madhu [Greed], Kaitabh [Insufficiency], and Mahishasura [Ego]. 2. namaste shumbha hantryai cha nishumbhaa suraghaatini I bow to the Destroyer of Shumbha [Pride] and Nishumbha [Self-interest through self-devaluation]. 3. jaagratam hi mahaa devi japam siddham kurushva me aimkaari shrishti rupaayai hrimkaari prati paalikaa Awaken me into perfect meditation. Let me delve into ìaimî - sound of Creation and ìhrimî which preserves energy for existence. 4. klimkaari kaama rupinyai bija rupe namostute chaamundaa chanda ghaati cha yai kaari varadaayini Knowing ìklimî is intrinsic nature of want, I bow to You. My eventual objective is to follow You by reciting seed-mantras. You slayed Chanda [Lust] and Munda [Anger]. Please slay my passions when I yai. Grant me this wish. 5. vichche chaabhayadaa nityam namaste mantra rupini With syllables ìvich-cheî give me freedom from fear. I bow to You of form of this mantra. 6. dhaam dhim dhum dhurjateh patni vaam vim voom vaagadhishvari kraam krim kroom kaalikaa devi shaam shim shoom me shubham kuru I invoke wife of Shiva. When I say ìdhaam dhim dhumî I invoke Ruler of Vibrations and with syllables: ìvaam viim voomî. By chanting ìkraam krim kroom kaalikaa deviî I invoke Energy who removes darkness... With ìshaam shim shoomî I am sure I will arrive at what I need. 7. hum hum humkaara rupinyai jam jam jam jambhanaadini bhraam bhrim bhroom bhairavi bhadre bhavaanyai te namo namah I am chanting from junctions of eyes, ears, nose and throat with a restrained yawning sound of Creation by chanting ìhum hum hum, jam jam jamî. Syllables ìbraam, brim broomî is to invoke Fierce Energy of Bhavaani, the female being of Lord of Being Vishnu. 8. am kam cham tam tam pam yam sham vim dum aim vim ham ksham dhijaagram dhijaagram trotaya trotaya diptam kuru kuru svaahaa Rise and destroy my flaws and clarify what I want. You and I are One. I await with anticipation that You relieve my difficulties I have habit of duality. End my problems and give me knowledge and wisdom. 9. paam pim poom parvati purnaa khaam khim khoom khechari tathaa I invoke Parvati with ìpaam pim poomî who is Potentiality of Nature. With syllables ìkhaam khim khoomî allow me to fly into higher planes of prana. 10. saam sim soom sapta-shati devyaa mantra sidhim kurushva me 40 The Cosmic Connection

You allow existence of astral beings who recite ìsaam, siim, soomî or those who recited 700 verses of Chhandi. Give me perfect realization of need for Oneness. Allow me to chant these. idam tu kunjikaa stotram mantra jaagarti hetave abhakte naiva daatavyam gopitam raksha parvati This ìsongî which gives seekers the key. It is the only way to awaken ìcauseî of oneís being. Such mantras must remain hidden from nondevotees. Parvati, may You keep this secret protected. yastu kunjikaayaa devi hinaam saptashatim pathet na tasya jaa-yate sidhir aranye rodanam yathaa Whoever recites these 700 verses without its key, will not arrive at success. Simple recitation amounts to crying in the forest. om aim hrim klim chaamundaayai vichche om glaum hum klim jum sah jvaalaya jvaalaya jvala jvala prajvala prajvala aim hrim klim chaamundaayai vichche jvala ham sam lam ksham phat svaahaa I invoke the Infinite before Creation and Energies of Creation, Support and Dissolution. I also invoke the Power to destroy passion and anger. Grant me the benefit. Allow me to realise Consciousness through study of body of Infinite Knowledge. I invoke, Ganapati, Lord of Wisdom. Destroy my Ego and my bondage to physical attachments. Light up my Consciousness flaming bright. Burn my tendencies with the help of Mothers of creation, preservation and destruction who are prime ìmovers and transformersî of individualised opinion. Illumine me. Let me see myself in all expressions ñ the Cosmic Connection. It will end my existence in three beings: physical, astral, and causal. I doubt not That, because I am One with God! durgabhimaa durgabhaamaa durgabhaa durgadhaarini Who is terrible to difficulties. Lady of difficulties. Illuminator of difficulties. Who cuts off difficulties naamaavali mimaam yastu durgaayaa mama maanavah Whoever recites this garland of Durgaís names, pathet sarva bhayaan mukto bhavishyati na samshayah Reliever of difficulties, will free one from every fear and difficulty, without a doubt AUM Aum (recite 108 times or as many desired malas) - aum tat sat - Prathamo-Charitram

In this first episode, Brahma the Creator is prophet. Durga is remover of darkness. Gayatri is the symbol. Nanda is the Energy. Raktadandika is the seed. Fire is the Principal Element and Rig Veda is its Intrinsic Nature. This first episode is dedicated to Mother who removes gloom of darkness. Here Devi serves as the agent who allows cosmic order to be restored. mahakali dhyaanam Meditating on Mahakali viniyogah om prathama charitraasya brahma rshi mahakli devata gayatri chandah nanda shaktih raktadanttika bijam agnistattvam rig vedah svarupam shri mahakali prityarthe prathama charitra jape viniyogah Om presenting this first episode of Creative Capacity who is remover of Darkness. Gayatri is the meter and nanda Energy. Raktadantika is seed and Fire the principle. Rig Veda is its intrinsic nature. This first episode is for removal of the Great Darkness ñ Maya. aum khad gam chakra gadeshoo chaapa parighaan chulam bhu shundim shirah shankham sam dadha teem karai stri naya naam sarv aanga bhooshaa vrataam nilaashma dyuti maasya paada dashakaam seve mahaa kaali kaaam yaama stautsvapite harau kama lajo hantum madhum kaita bham She who is bearing in Her ten hands: a sword of worship, discus of revolving time, club of articulation, bow of determination, bar of restraint, spear of attention, sling, head of egotism, conch of vibration... She has three eyes and displays symbolic ornaments on all Her limbs, She shines like a blue gem. Her ten faces, I worship. Creator (Brahma) invoked You. Oh Mother who removes difficulties and darkness slay negative thoughts called Greed despite ëtoo muchí and ëtoo littleí from illusory insufficiency, when Vishnu was asleep. Om namas chhandika yai Om we bow to Mother Chhandi who destroys Thought 42 The Cosmic Connection

1. aum aim markandeya uvaacha Aum aim Markandeya said: (about ìGreat Delusionî of Maya) 2. saavarni tanayo yo manuh kath yate shtamah nishaa maya tadut pattim vistaraad gadato mama Savarni, son of Sun (Light of Wisdom), belongs to all colors and castes of all tribes. He is the eighth Manu. Listen to what I have to tell you about his origin: 3. mahaa maayaa noo bhaa vena yathaa man vantaraa dhee paha sa babhuva mahaa bhaaga saavarni stanayo raveh Hear now how, through grace of Mahamaya, Savarni became master of the fourteenth part of Infinityís day - it is about this subject I speak. 4. svaarochi she ntare poorvam chaitra vamsha samoodh bhavah sooratho naama raajaa bhoot samaste kshiti mandale In Svarochisa Manvantara ñ these are ancient times, there lived king Surata, a transmitter of Good Thoughts. He was born of Chaitra lineage, which inhabits in realms of Consciousness. 5. tasya paala yatah samyak prajaah putraa nivaura saan babhoovah shatravo bhoopaah kola vidh vamsi nastadaa He treated his people, as a father treats his children. Neighboring atheistic Kola Kings who are Destroyers of Worship became his enemies. 6. tasya taira bhavad yuddham ati prabala dandinah nyoo nair api sa tair yuddhe kolaa vidhvamsi bhir jitaha Although good-thoughts of Surata were greater in number, Kolas fought valiantly and were defeated. 7. tatah svapura maayaato nija deshaa dhipo bhavat aakraan tah sa maha bhaagas tais tadaa pravalaa ribhihi After renouncing control over Earth, Surata returned home to rule his own land. Surata was again attacked and pursued by his enemies. 8. amaat yair balibhir dooshtair doorba lasya door atma bhihi kosho balam chaapa hritam tatraapi svapoore tatah Weakened and depleted in his own kingdom, his own wicked and powerful ministers robbed him, his treasure and usurped his army. 9. tato mrigayaa vyaajena hrita swaamyah sa bhoo patihi ekaaki haya maaruhya jagaam gahanam vanam Thus deprived of his Kingdom, Surata rode off alone into the dense forest on the pretext of hunting. 10. sa tatraa shrama madraakshid dvija varyasya medhasaha Prashaanta shvaa padaa kirnam muni shishyo pasho bhitam He arrived at the hermitage of a wise sage. Medhamuni whose intellect and love magnetically attracted creatures lived happily with man, beast, and all Devi Maahaat Mayam 43

creatures. With him in this dense forest also lived many other wise disciples. 11. tasthau kam chitsa kaalam cha mooninaa tena sat krtaha Itash che tash cha vicharams tasmin muni varaashrame King Surata was received and given sanctuary in Medhamuniís ashram. Here he wandered and reflected freely while walking around the hermitage. 12. so chinta yat tadaa tatra mamatvaa krishta chetanah mat purvaih paalitam purvam mayaa hinam puram hi tat Suddenly his reflection is triumphed over by egotism and attachment. The Kingís mind reflected, ìThis Capital once ancestrally ours and protected by us for generations is now gone.î 13. mad bhrt yais taira sad vrt tair dharmatah paalyate na vaa na jaane sa pradhaano me shura hasti sadaa madah ìAre my unprincipled employees protecting and righteously governing my kingdom in my absence? Is my heroic elephant happy?î 14. mama vairi vasham yaatah kaan bhogaa nupalap syate ye mamaa nu gataa nityam prasaada dhana bhooja naih ìIs my elephant enjoying the same pleasures when I ruled? Do those wicked servants, who now rule my fatherís kingdom, do so righteously? Do they make offerings of wealth and food to the poor?î 15. anoo vrittim dhroovam te dya kurvan tyan yamahi bhrtaam asam yagvya yashilais taih kurvad bhih satatam vyayam ìMy servants are now serving other kings who perhaps spend wastefully and extravagantly.î 16. sam chitah so ti duhkhena kshayam kosho gamishyati etach chaanya cha satatam chintayaa maasa paarthivaah And as the king went deeper into his worrisome contemplation, his mind became absorbed with thoughts of worldly attachments to wealth and position. 17. tatra vipr aashram aabhyaashe vaishyam ekam dadarsha sah sa prshta stena kastvam bho hetush chaa gamane tra kah There at the hermitage King Surata met a merchant and asked him, ìWho are you? Why are you in this hermitage?î 18. sashoka iva kasmaat tvam door manaa iva lak shyase Ityaa karnya-vachas tasya bhu pateh pranayo ditam ìWhy are you sad? Your mind seems distanced from your goal?î Asked King Surata pleasantly and with a friendly voice. 19. praty-uvaach sa tam vaishyah prash-rayaa-vanato nrpam Hearing the friendly and humble tone of the King, the merchant bowed and replied. 20. uvaacha The merchant said: 44 The Cosmic Connection

21. samaadhir naama vaishyo hamut panno dhani naam kule ìI am Samadhi of Intuitive-Perception.I am a merchantís son and of wealthy family lineage. We always worshipped Mother Durga of Infinite-Energy.î 22. putradaa rair nira stash ch dhana lobhaada saadhu bhih vihi-nash-cha dhanair-daaraihi putrair-aadaaya me dhanam ìMy family cast me aside because of wealth. This has caused me to become an ascetic seeking truth. Robbed by my own greedy sons and wives, there is sorrowfor they seized my estateî. 23. vanama bhyaa gato duhkhi nirastash chaapta bandhu-bhih so ham na vedmi putraa naam kushalaa kushalaat mikaam ìStaying here after being caste away by trusted family, my thoughts are sorrowful. I came into the forest and now I am unsure where happiness and unhappiness lies.î 24. pravritim svajanaa naam cha daraa naam chaatra sam sthitaha kim nu- teshaam grhe kshema makshemam kim nu saam pratam ìAlthough caste out by my own people, here in the forest, I wonder if they are happy. That is my grief.î 25. katham te kim noo sad vrattaa doorvr taah kim nu me sootaah ìI do not know how my sons and wives are doing. Are they happy at this time? Are they observing good or evil conduct?î 26. raja uvaacha The king said: 27. yair nir asto bhavaa mllubdh aih putra daaraadi bhir dhanaih ìGreedy sons and wives discarded you for your wealth.î 28. teshu kim bavataha sneham anu badh naati maanasam ìHow are your thoughts of affection still bound to them?î 29. vaishya uvacha The merchant said: 30. evam etadyataa praaha bhavaan asmad gatam vachah ìJust as you speak, I am entertaining the same thoughts.î 31. kim karomi na badh naati mama nish toora taam manah yaih samtya-jya pitr sneham dhana lubdhair niraakrtah ìBut what can I do? My mind will not entertain severity. They sacrificed a fatherís love for wealth. Yet, my mind entertains affection for them.î 32. pati svajana haardam cha haardi teshveva me manah ki me tannaabhi jaan aami jaanan napi mahaa mate ìIt bears deep affection even for those who have deserted me. I do not understand why.î 33. yat prema pravanam chitam viguney shvapi bandhushu tesaam krte nihshvaaso daur manasyam cha jaayate Devi Maahaat Mayam 45

ìNoble King, I do not understand why my mind still loves even worthless kin. I feel despaired and dejected thinking of their vile actions.î 34. karomi kim yanna manas tesh vapritshu nish thuram ìWhat can one do about this? My mind will not harden even towards those who love me not.î 35. markandeya uvacha Markandeya said: 36. tatas tau sahitau vipra tam munim samu pasthi tau Together, the two people, King and merchant capable of Intuitive Opinion sought sage (Medhas). 37. samaadhir naama vaishyo sau sa cha paarthiva sattamah krtvaa tu tau yathaanyaa yam yathaar ham tena sam vidam Together, the merchant and King approached Medhas muni and after saluting him in etiquette worthy of a sage; and, 38. upa vishtau kathaa kaash chic chakratur vaishya paarthi vau After a suitable exchange of greetings, they both sat down to talk on some topics. 39. raja uvacha The King said: 40. bhagavam stvaama ham prashtum ichaam yekam vadasva tat ìBhagavan, you who are already united with infinite Self, we wish to ask you to speak with us about a problem.î 41. duhkhaaya yanme manasah svachit taayat tataam vinaa Mama tvam gata raajyasya raajya angeshva khilesh vapi ìMy mindís painful thoughts are uncontrollable. I feel attached to my kingdom and previous status which I have lost.î 42. jaanato pi yatha jnasya kimetan muni sattama ayam cha nikr-tah putrair daarair bhrtyais ta thoj jhitah ìMy own mind cannot find its reply. Knowing the truth of my situation, like an ignorant man, I feel pain. Why is that so? Here, this humble merchant is undergoing the same confusion.î 43. svaja nena ch sam tyak tas teshu haardi tathaa pyati evamesha tathaa ham ch dvaavap yatyanta dukhihi tau ìDeserted by his loved ones, he still upholds a great affection for them: We both feel the same pain.î 44. drshta doshe-pi vishaye mamatvaa krishta maana sau tat kimetan mahaa bhaaga yan moho gyaani norapi ìWe see defects in our preoccupation. But our minds keep getting drawn towards our egos and attachments. What is this that promotes ignorance despite Manís ability for wisdom and understanding?î 46 The Cosmic Connection

45. mamaasya cha bhavat yeshaa vivekaan dhasya mudha taa ìWhat is this? We are both fools without capacity for discrimination.î 46. rishir uvacha The Rishi said: 47. gyanamasti samas tasya jantor vishaya gochare ìOh Great Ones, all that lives has knowledge of objects perceived by his or her senses.î 48. vishayash-cha mahaa-bhaaga yaati chaivam prthak prthak divaan-dhaah praani-naha kechid raa-traa-van-dhaas tathaa-pare ìBut sense objects are perceived differently by different beings. Some are unable to see the day, others see not in the night. 49. kechid divaa tathaa ratrau praanina stulya drshtayah gyanino manujaah satyam kim tu te na hi kevalam Some are able to see equally both in day and night. It is true humans have a capacity of understanding, but that is not only peculiar to humans.î 50. yatohi gyaani nah sarve pashu pakshi mrigaa dayah gyanam cha tan manushyaa naam yatte shaam mrga pakshinaam ìThis knowledge, is common to all animals, beasts of the forest, birds of air, and all living beings with understanding, including mankind.î 51. manushyaanaam cha yatte shaam tulya manyat tatho bhayoh gyaane-pi pash-yai taan patan-gaanchaa vachan chushu ìCapacity for ëunderstandingí in man is of the same in essence as that of beasts: Look at birds.î 52. kana-mokshaa drtaan-mohaat pidya-maanaan-api kshudhaa maanushaa manu javyaa-ghra saabhilaa-shaah sutaan prati ìThough they have instinctive knowledge, because of attachment, they ignore their own hunger in order to feed their children. Man does the same. He or she desires reciprocal help in their time of need.î 53. lobhaat pratyupa kaaraaya nan vetaan kim na pashyati tathaapi mamataa vartte moha garte nipaati taaha ìCan you not see that desire in their greed? Even so man hurls himself in a whirlpool of attachment and delusion.î 54. mahaa-maya prabhaa vena samsaara stithi kaarinaa tannaatra vish mayah kaaryo yoga nidraa jagat pateh This is done by Mahamaya - Causal Awareness in Mother Nature is the cause of all objects, circumstances and relationships. No wonder, Yoganidra (Maya), who is Ishvaraís Shakti (Energy) even deludes Him and puts Him (Vishnu) to sleep. 55. mahaa maayaa haresh chaiyshaa tayaa sam mohyate jagat gyaaninaam api chetaamsi devi bhagavati hi saa Devi Maahaat Mayam 47

She, who is the great Determiner, and supreme assessor of Awareness, Mahamaya, deludes the world. It is She who renders all able to perceive according to their ability and capacity. 56. balaadaa krshya mohaaya mahaamaya prayacchati tasyaa visr jate vishvam jagade tach charaa charam Her Great Plan demanding evolution thrusts us into ignorant egoistic attachments. This universe is born of Her. It must move along a path of evolution through time and space, even if it is through Her power of delusion. 57. saishaa prasanaa varadaa nru naam bhavati muktaye saa vidyaa paramaa mukter hetu bhutaa sanaatani It is She, who after She is satisfied with service of man under Her great plan and divine Will, that She awards for liberation. It is She who is the supreme cause of Knowledge and Existence. She is the cause of manís eventual liberation. 58. samsaara bandha hetush-cha saiva sarve-shvare-shvari She is the cause of all bondage and bonded-awareness with attachments to objects and their relationships. She reigns supreme over all sovereigns. 59. rajo-uvacha The King said: 60. bhagavan kaa hi saa devi mahaamaayeti yaam bhavaan ìHoly one, who is this Mahamaya the great Measurer, about whom you speak? Where does She come from?î 61. braviti katha mut pannaa saa karma syaash cha kim dvija yat prabhaavaa cha saa devi yat svarupaa yadud bhavaa ìTell oh wise one, how does one recognise Her by Her actions? How was She caused? What is Her Intrinsic Nature? How was She born?î 62. tat sarvam shrotum ichaami tvatto brahma vidaam vara ìAll this I wish to hear from you.î 63. rishir uvaacha The Rishi said 64. nityaiva saa jagan moortis tayaa sarvam idam tatam ìShe is Eternal. The physical universe and phenomenons in it are Her visible forms. She displays in many ways. Hear about these forms.î 65. tad aapi tat samut patir bahu dhaa shruya taam mama Devaa naam kaarya siddhyar tham aavir bhavati saa yadaa She is Eternal and unborn, but, when divine ones call upon Her to do action, She manifests in the world as Cause of all action. 66. ut-panneti tadaa lokey saa nityaa pyabhi -yate Yoga nidraam yadaa vishnur jagat ye kaarna vikrte At the end of the Period of Manifestation (Yuga), when all the potentialities 48 The Cosmic Connection

have manifested, She (Shakti) dissolves to become unmanifest again into (Shiva) and rests in divine union and ecstasy. 67. aastirya sheshama bhajat kal paante bhagavaan prabhu tadaa dvaava surau ghorau vikhyaa tau madhu kaitabhau At Kalpaís end (Pralaya), when beloved Vishnu is in His mystic slumber, atop Sheshaa (Total Causal Vasanas), then from dirt of ears of the ìPerceiving Capacityî arise two terrible Thoughts, called Madhu - Greed also called Too Much and Kaitabh called Insufficiency. Both were about to kill Vishnu. But Brahma seated in his lotus emerging from Vishnuís navel realised the danger. 68. vishnu karna malod bhutau hantoom brahmaana-moodyatau sa naabhi kamale vishnoh sthito brahmaaa prajaa-patihi The two Negative Thoughts - Madhu and Kaitabh were about to kill Vishnu. The Creator Brahma, was seated in the lotus arising from Vishnuís navel. 69. drishtvaa taava surau chograu prasuptam cha janaar danam tush-taava yoga nidraam taam ekaagra hrdaya sthitah Brahma, the Creator saw the two aggressive Thoughts, as well as, Vishnu indifferent in Janardhanís sleep of divine union. Then, with single pointed attention, Brahma began awakening Vishnu by singing His praise. 70. vibodhan aarthaaya harer hari netra krtaa layaam vish veshvarim jagad dhaatrim samhaara kaarinim Wishing to awaken Hari (the eyes of Consciousness), Brahma concentrated his brilliant Light on Hari who is the Sustainer of revealed Universe and cause of both evolution and devolution. 71. nidraam bhagavatim vishnor atulaam tejasah prabhuh Brahma praised Bhagavati - Mother-of-Sleep who is unequaled as Energy of Awareness and Queen-of-Universe and Substratum of generation, support and dissolution in three worlds: 72. brahma uvacha Brahma said: 73. tvam svahaa tvam svadhaa tvam hi vashat kaarah svara atmikaa You are Svaha, the propitiatory mantra of oblations offered into fire. You are Svadhaa, the propitiatory uttered offerings to ancestors. You are Vashatkaara, the vedic sacrifice of yagna. You are Svara, Om representing Consciousness in all sound. 74. sudhaa tvam akshare nitye tridhaa maatr aatmikaa sthitaa ardha maatraa sthitaa nityaa yaanuch chaaryaa vishesh atah You are essence of letters and consciousness of AUM [aim-hrim-klim]. You are the food of devas (sudhaa is immortality). You are the Awareness and Consciousness. You are the eternal half matra and cannot be uttered without specificity, 75. tvameva sandhyaa savitri tvam devi janani paraa Devi Maahaat Mayam 49

tvayai tad dhaaryate vishvam tvayai tatsr jyate jagat You are Savitri, Mother-of-Positive-Thoughts. You are Sandhya - Time of prayer; You are the bearer of Light. You are Janani - Mother of all beings. This displayed Universe is made and carried by You. 76. tvayaitat paalyate devi tvamat syante cha sarvadaa Vishra stau srishti rupaa tvam sthiti rupaa cha paalane Always existing as the Universe, You protect what You create and at the end of the Yuga, you dissolve it. You are the ëformí of creation, and at other times, you become the circumstance for its nourishment. 77. tathaa samhrti rupaante jagato-sya jagan maye Mahaa vidyaa mahaa maayaa maha medhaa mahaa smritihi Then, at the end of a Yuga, You dissolve all forms. You are the Great Measurer of Cause-Effect, Intellect, Wisdom (vidya) and Great Memory () of all that remains undone as wishes. 78. mahaa mohaa cha bhavati mahaadevi mahaasuri prakrtis tvam cha sarvasya guna traya vibhaavini You are Attachment (moha); You are the great source of Strength; You are Nature; and three gunas in everything you display (tamas-rajas-sattva). 79. kaala ratrir mahaa-raatrir moha raatrish cha daarunaa tvam shris tvam ishvari tvam hris tvam budhir bodha lakshanaa You are periodic night and Night-of-delusion in Time. You are Shri (prosperity). You are steady (stavam). You are the ruler (ishvari). You are modesty (hri) and One with clear vision of Manís goal (budhir). 80. lajjaa pushtis tathaa tushtis tvam shantih kshantir eva cha khadgini shulini ghora gadini chakrini tathaa You are modesty (lajaa), nourishment (pushtir), contentment (tooshti), tranquillity (shanti) and patience (kshanti). You carry a sword of Wisdom and crest of Concentration; You also have the club of Articulation and discus of Time. You have a frightful form. 81. shankhini chaapini baana bushundi pari ghaa yudhaa saumyaa saumyata raashesha saumye bhyas tvati sundari Armed with conch of vibrations (Aum) a bow of determination, you have armed yourself armed with a myriad of weapons. Yet You are gentle and beautiful. 82. paraa paraanaam paramaa tvameva parameshvari yaccha kimchit kvachid vastu sada sadvaaa khil aatmike You are both terrible and pleasing to look at. In fact, You are more pleasing than the most beautiful, oh Ishvari. But, above and beyond all this, You are supreme Awareness in which exist all thoughts and opinions 83. tasya sarvasya yaa shaktih saa tvam kim stuyase tadaa yayaa tvayaa jagat srashtaa jagat paatyatti yo jagat 50 The Cosmic Connection

Whatever there exists, both sentient and insentient; whatever power they own is Yours. You are the soul energy of everything from devolution, evolution, to circumstance. Then how do I praise You? 84. sopi nidraa vasham nitah kastvaam stotumih eshvaraha vishnuh sharira grahana maham ishaana eva cha You are responsible for sleep. How must I praise You who preserves and dissolves all expressions, including myself. 85. kaarit aaste yato-tas tvaam kah sto-tum bhavet saa tvamithaam prabhaavaih svai rudaarair-devi samstutaa Who then can praise You as cause or effect? Nonetheless, You and Your heavenly expressions are being praised. 86. moha yaitau duraa-dharshaa vasu-rau madhu kaitabhau prabo-dham cha jagat svaami niyataama chyuto laghu Bewitch these unconquerable egoistic Thoughts (Greed and Insufficiency) Madhu-Kaitabh. Rouse the Master of this world (Vishnu) from His sleep 87. bodhascha kriya taamasya hantu metau mahaa surau Rouse Him to conquer these two great Thoughts so I may be blessed with Wisdom 88. rishir uvaacha The Rishi said 89. evam stutaa tadaa devi taamasi tatra vedasaa In this manner Brahma praised Devi of Rest. His purpose was to awaken Vishnu 90. vishnoh prabodhan aarthaaya nihantum madhu kaitabhau netraasya naashikaa baahu hrdaye-bhyas tatho-rasah The Awareness of Vishnu emerged from Her home in Vishnuís eyes, mouth, nose, chest, and heart to kill Madhu-Lord-of-Greed and Kaitabh-Lord-of- Insufficiency. 91. nirgamya darshane tasthau brahmano-vyakta janmanah utta sthau cha jagannaathas tayaa mukto janaardanah She appeared before Brahma from Her immovable, subtle Existence as visible Creative Energy. Freed by Her, Vishnu - Lord of the World awakened. 92. ekaarnave hishayanaat tatah sa dadrishe cha tau madhu kaitabhau dura atmaanaa vativirya paraakramau Vishnu rose from His Serpent (total vasanas) couch on the unbroken sea of Existence. He saw the two negative Thoughts marching forward to attack Him. 93. krodha rakte kshana avattum brahmaanam janitor dyamau Samu thaaya tatastaa bhyaam yuyudhe bhagavaan harih Red eyed with anger, they were ready to devour Brahma. Then Lord (Vishnu) who removes confusion rose and battled with Negative Thoughts. 94. pancha varsha sahasraani baahu praharano vibhuh Devi Maahaat Mayam 51

taavap yati balon mattau mahaamaayaa vimohitau For 5000 years, Vishnu the All-Pervasive-One wrestled with Madhu-of-Greed and Kaitabh-of-Insufficiency, arm in arm. Then frenzied by their own victorious strength, and under delusion of Maya. 95. ukta vantau varo smatto vriy ataamiti keshavam The Negative-Thoughts arrogantly asked ìAsk a boon from usî 96. shri bhagavaan uvaacha Vishnu said 97. bhavet aamadya me tushtau mama vadhyaa vubhaavapi ìYou seem pleased with Me, then, allow yourselves to be slain by me.î Negative Thoughts agreed as long as it was not anywhere in three realms. 98. kiman yena vare naatra etaa vaddhi vritam mama ìWhat other wish could one ask? This is what I ask for,î replied Negative Thoughts. 99. rishir uvaacha The Rishi said: 100. vanchitaa bhyaam-iti tadaa sarvam aapo mayam jagat The asuras saw the entire world covered by the ocean of strife. 101. vilokya taabhyaam gadito bhagavaan kamalek-shanah avaam jahi na yatrorvi salilena pari-plutaa Bewitched by Mahamaya, the two Negative-Thoughts addressed the lotus eyed Vishnu ìConquer us where there is no water.î 102. rishir uvaacha The Rishi said: 103. tathet yuktvaa bhagavataa shanka chakra gadaa bhrtaa kritvaa chakrena vaich-chinne jaghane shirasi tayoh Vishnu bearing conch, disk and club said: ìSo be itî. He raised the two Negative- Thoughts on His lap and with the revolutions of Time (discus), He severed their heads 104. evam eshaa samut panaa brahmanaa samstutaa svayam prabhaavam-asyaa devyaastu bhuyah shrunu vadaami te Thus praised by Brahma, the Devi Herself appeared. Now I shall tell you more of Her glories, so listen as I continue to speak to you both (King and merchant). Iti shri markandeya-purane-savarni-ke-manvantare-devi-mahaat-mye madu-kaitabh-vado-naama-prathamo-adhyaa-yaha Here ends the first chapter:îThe Slaying of Madhu and Kaitabhaî in Devimahatmaya of Markandeyapurana, during the period of Savarni, the Manu. Rishi explains to Humankind and Creatures about Mother Nature and Her power of Maya 52 The Cosmic Connection

1. Swami Shivananda Divine Life Society Markandeya said: The eighth Manu is called Savarni, son of Surya (Sun). I shall now tell you how he came into being. Because of grace of Mahamaya, that lord of Manvantara came to be son of Surya. There was a king called Suratha ruling whole earth. He ruled his subjects like his own children. He was once attacked by his enemies who tried to capture his city by force. He was defeated in battle by his own wicked ministers and kings of other hostile parties. Dejected and mounting his horse, he went into a dense forest. There he saw an Ashram of a great Sage with many disciples studying sacred lore. The King was received warmly by the wise man. While the king wandered he was caught by a powerful force of ëminenessí. He thought, ìAh! What a sad state! I was ruling this country, and now it is occupied by enemies. My ministers once faithful now serve my enemies. My subjects were happy during my rule. They are all serving a foreign ruler. My treasury will be used up by the enemies!î In the Ashram, the king met a Vaishya (merchant-caste). The King asked him, ìWho are you? What are you doing here? Please tell me everything about youî The Vaisya said, ìMy name is Samadhi. I was born in a wealthy family, but am deprived of all my property by wicked people and all my family, wife and children deserted me. Because I am now poor, I have taken shelter in this forest. I am filled with grief. I do not know what has happened to my wife and what my children are doing now. Whether they are living or dead I do not know.î The king said, ìNow that your wife and children have deserted you, why then, are you so much attached to them even now?î The Vaishya said, ìO king! True. I also know this. But what do I do? Still I love them. The nature of mind is such. It loves even a wicked wife and children who drove me out. I cannot help it.î Then they both, king and merchant went to the sage. After prostrating reverentially to Markandeya the king questioned the sage, ìO revered sage! I wish to ask you one question. I have lost all my country. But still I have deep attachment for my lost kingdom and my deceitful wife and children. O sage, why is this? We both feel similarly and are grieved. We both feel foolish. Please destroy our ignorance through wisdom.î Sage replied, ìO king, yes, there is an instinctive wisdom that is innate in every creature. Some animals are blind during day, some during the night. Some have sight during night and day. Man has sight only during day. Yet, all have the same wisdom. What is all this? Why is this difference? Look at moths falling on fire and

52 Chapter One 53 compare this with Man falling in the fire of sensual objects. What difference is there among both creatures here? In spite of having intelligence, all creatures struggle for the sake of the stomach. All are controlled and deluded by a Great Power, the Mahamaya of Vishnu. Because of Her Power this world is working. Because of Her all suffer and because of Her all are happy. Even wise Jnanis are dragged by this Maya. She is the creator of this universe for both the mobile and stationary. If pleased She gives Man eternal salvation in the end. She is the cause of bondage and liberation. She alone is all in all. She rules supreme over all lords. The king said: ìO sage, who is that Devi Maya? How is She born? I wish to hear everything about Her, who works such wonders in this world. Sage said: She is eternal exhibition of the supreme Power. She is pervading all. Her coming into being is heard of in various ways. When She reveals Herself for the good of gods, She is considered being born. When sleeping She merges with Vishnu as Yoganidra during the great Dissolution. Two great demons Madhu and Kaitabha were hiding in the dirt of sleeping Vishnuís ears. They saw Brahma seated in a Lotus from Vishnuís navel. They threatened to devour Vishnu. Seeing Vishnu asleep and in much danger, Brahma prayed to Mahamaya to awaken Vishnu by praising Her The sage said: ìThus praised, Maya, entered Vishnu from all quartersand opened His eyes, mind, and activated His hands and every limb part by part. The great Lord stood up in inexpressible grandeur adorned with His powerful weapons. He saw two formidable demons in front. They were trying to eat Brahma. Lord Hari fought with them for five thousand years. Mahamaya now began to mislead the two demons using Her power of Maya. In their lack of knowledge, they asked Vishnu, ìHari. What help do you want?îAnd the Lord said, ìBecome My victims immediately.î Seeing there was water everywhere, the demons said, ìYou can kill us where there is no water.î Vishnu lifted them both on His thighs and chopped off both heads with His Sudarshana-Chakra. King this is a story of how Maya was born for the first time. I plan to tell you more great stories about Mahamaya.î 54 The Cosmic Connection

2. Long ago when was the king of devas and Mahisha was the king of asuras, a hundred year battle was fought between devas and asuras. Mahishmati was the wife of an asura called Vipra Chithi, terrorized sage Sindhu Deepa by taking the form of a buffalo. He cursed her to become a buffalo. She drank the semen of sage Sindhu Deepa and gave birth to Mahishasura. The place where Mahishasura ruled in the olden days was called Mahishur and is the present Mysore city. In that war the army of devas was defeated by the army of asuras and after winning all devas Mahishasura became Indra (king of Devas). Defeated devas went to Shiva, Vishnu and Brahma. Devas related to them about Mahishasura and their defeat. Dvitiyo Dhyaayah Atha Madhyam-Charitam Middle Episode Though the figure of Siva is recognized in Devi Mahatmayam. Goddess Durga and Her nine powers bear no special affiliation to him. In fact She bears no special liaison with anyone other than her devotees. Each god has a Shakti. DevÓ M‚h‚tmaya avoids characterizing as consorts because they are pure Shakti - Power. Devi Mahatmayam does not visualize itself as feminine or masculine. The Goddess is presented as Shakti. In this middle episode of Devi Mahamayam, Durga, the great Warrior Goddess, represents deadly energy of divine anger when turning against evil. The world was under attack by Mahishasura, the most evil demon in the world, who took many different forms, including that of a buffalo. Male gods, fearing total annihilation granted Durga with their powers. Riding a lion into battle, Durga slew the buffalo by cutting off its head and then she destroyed the Spirit of the demon as it emerged from the buffaloís severed neck. It is through this act that order was fixed in the world. Maha-Lakshmi-Dhyaanam Meditating on Mahalakshmi aum aksha srak parashum gadeshu kulisham padmam dhanuh kundikaam She of beautiful face who is destroyer of Ego, is seated on the lotus of Peace. dandam shaktim asim cha charma jalajam ghantaam suraa bhaaja nam She holds in Her hand a rosary of alphabets, axe of superior actions, club of articulation, arrow of speech .. shoolam paasha sundar shane cha dadhatim hastaih prasannaa nanaam

54 Dvitiyo Dhyaayah 55

Thunderbolt of illumination, lotus of peace, bow of determination, water pot of purification, staff of discipline, sword of worship... seve sairibha mardini miha mahaalakshmin saroja stitaam Shield of faith, conch of vibrating energy, wine cup of joy, pike of concentration, net of unity, discus of revolving Time also called intuitive vision ... I worship that great goddess of real wealth. Mahalakshmi Charitam 1. aum hrim rishir uvaacha Aum hrim .. Rishi said 2. devaa surama bhudh yuddham purna mabdasha tam puraa mahishe suraanaama dhipe devaanaam cha purandare In old times during the rule of the pure, peaceful divine thought forces of Indra who is Lord of clear view had a dreadful meeting with Mahishasura (Ego) and his asuras (Negative-Thoughts). It lasted 100 years... 3. tatra surair mahaa viryair deva sainyam paraa jitam jitvaa cha sakalaan devaan indro bhun mahishaa surah The powerful Army of devic positive thoughts was defeated byan army of asuric negative thoughts. Grand ego Mahishasura assumed authority of domain of Pure (Indralok). 4. tatah paraa jitaa devah padma yonim prajaa patim puras kritya gataas tatra yatre shagaruda dhvajau Then defeated devas led by the lotus born Brahma, went to where Consciousness Vishnu and Awareness Lakshmi lived. 5. yathaa vritam tayo stadvan mahishaasura chestitam trida shaah katha yaam aasur devaabhi bhava vistaram The Devas told to Vishnu and Lakshmi about the fight of the Ego with the help of the Forces of Negative thought (asuras). Next, they visited Shiva and there recounted the story of their defeat as well. 6. sur yendraa gnyani lendunaam yamasya varunasya cha anyeshaam chaadi kaaran sa swayamevaa dhitish thati They (Vishnu and Shiva and their consorts) were told that Mahishasura (Ego) had assumed lordship of Surya (Light-of-Wisdom), Indra (ruler of Pure- perception), Agni (Light-of-Meditation), (Light-of-Equilibrium), Chandra (Light-of-Devotion), Yama (Lord-of-Control), (Lord-of-Waters) among other devas. 7. svargaan niraa kritaah sarve tena deva ganaa bhuvi vicharanti yathaa martyaa mahishena dura atmanaa Thrown out of heavens by the evil Mahishasura (Egoistic thought), devic positive thoughts now roamed earth as mortals. 56 The Cosmic Connection

8. etad vah kathi tam sarva mamararivi cheshtitam sharanam vah prapanaah smo vadhas tasya vichintya taam We have told You what the armies of negative thoughts have done to positive thoughts.... We come to You for protection. Now please think of a way to destroy them. 9. itham nishamya devaanaam vachaamsi madhu sudhanah chakaara kopam sham bhushch bhru kuti kutilaa nanau Hearing the story of devas of positive thoughts, Vishnu, the slayer of Madhu [asura-of-greed] and Kaitabh [asura-ofñscarcity] became angry at the army of negative thoughts. Devasí (Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva) faces frowned with anger. 10. tato tikopa purnasya chakri-no vadanaat tatah nish chakraama mahat tejo brahmanah shankarasya cha While enraged, a great Light emerged from faces of the devas. One Light emerged from one who holds discus of Time (Vishnu) and from Brahma, the Creator ... and from Consciousness od Infinite Good (Shiva). 11. anyeshaam chaiva devaanaam shakraa dinaam sharira tah nir gatam suma hatte jas tach chaikyam sama gachchata The bodies of Indra and all Devas of Purity, issued lights which merged to one splendorous Light. 12. ativa tejasah kutam jvalantam iva parvatam dadrshuste suraas tatra jvaalaa vyaapta digan taram Devas witnessed merging lights which was now like a blazing mountain in flames going in all directions. 13. atulam tatra tattejah sarva deva sharer ajam ekastham tada bhunaari vyaapta loka trayam tvishaa Then the Light which blazed the three worlds took the form of a woman. 14. yada bhuchchaam bhavam tejas tenaa jaayat tan mukham yaamyena chaabhavan keshaa baahavo vishnu tejasaa From Shivaís source of Bliss came Existence of Her face. Yamaís control became Her hair... Vishnuís all pervasiveness became Her arms. 15. saumyena stanayor yugmam madhyam chaindrena chaabhavat varunena cha janghoru nitambas tejasaa bhuvah Chandraís devotion became her breast. Indraís purity became Her waist. Varunaís equilibrium) became Her lower limbs. Earth became Her buttocks and pelvis. 16. tejasaa paadau tadangulyo rka tejasaa vasunaam cha karaangulyaha kauberena cha naasikaa Brahmaís creativity became Her feet. Suryaís radiance became Her toes. Vasuís finders of wealth became Her fingers, and Kuberís guardianship of wealth became Her nose. Dvitiyo Dhyaayah 57

17. tasyaastu dantaah sambhutaah prajaa patyena tejasaa nayana tritayam jajne tathaa paavaka tejasaa Prajapatiís beings became Her teeth. Agniís clarity in meditation became Her three eyes. 18. bhruvau cha sandhya yostejah shravanaa vanilasya cha anyeshaam chaiva devanaam sambhavas tejasaam shiva Dawn and twilight ñ both times of worship became Her eyebrows. Vayuís want for Excellence became Her ears. Then lights from all other devas also contributed to create Cosmic Mother Nature. She was modeled from Light- Energy for infinite collective goodness. 19. tatah samasta devaanaam tejo raashi samudh bhavaam taam vilokya mudham praapura maraa mahishaardi taah Then devas troubled by ego, seeing the grandeur of Her Universal form united their lights to experience a great joy. 20. shulam shulaad vanish krishya dadau tasyai pinaa kadhruk chakram cha dattavaan krishnah samut paadya svacha kritaha Shiva who promoted such unity gave Cosmic Mother a trident similar to His own. Vishnu the encourager of right actions) gave a Her a discus of revolving Time. 21. shankham cha varunah shaktim dadau tasyai hutaashanah maaruto data vamsh chaapam baana purne tath-shudhi Varuna gave a conch of continual vibration for Equilibrium. Agni gave a spear named meditative shakti. Maruta wanting emancipation gave his bow of determination and two quivers full of arrows. 22. vajram indraa samoot paadya kulishaa dammar aadhipah dadau tasyai sahasraaksho ghantaa mairaa vataad gajaat Indra who rules pure thoughts by the thousands Illuminated from his thunderbolt. Love for all came from the elephant ìairavataî and a continuous tone of OM came from the bell. 23. kaala dandaa dyamo dandam paasham chaambu patir dadau prajapatish chaksha maalaam dadau brahma kamandalum Controller Yama gave his staff of discipline. Lord of Equilibrium Varuna gave network of unity. gave a rosary of alphabets and Brahma gave Her a - bowl of renunciation. 24. samasta roma kupeshu nijara shmin diva karah kaalashcha datavaan tasyaash charma cha nirmalam Surya gave His sunrays to fill pores of Her skin. Time (Kala) gave a sword of worship and a spotless shield. 25. kshrirod ashchaamalam haaramajare cha tathaam bare chudaamanim tathaa divyam kundale katakaani cha 58 The Cosmic Connection

The milky ocean of Pure-Thoughts gave a necklace of gems and a pair of undecaying garments, earrings and a divine crest. Pure-Thoughts also gave Her bangles and a halo of light. 26. ardha chandram tathaa shubhram keyuraan sarva baahushu nupurau vimalau tadvad grai veyakama nuttamam The brilliant half-moon gave bracelets for Her arms, anklets for Her feet and a necklace. 27. anguliy karatnaani samastaa svangulishu cha dadau tasyai parashoom chaati nirmalam The half-moon gave Her rings for Her fingers while Vishvakarma gave Her an axe of good actions. 28. astraanya neka rupaani tathaa bhedyaam cha damshanam amlaa napan kajaam maalaam shira syurasi chaaparam All types of weapons and impenetrable armor were presented to protect Her head and chest. Also presented to Her was a garland of lotuses. 29. ada dajja ladhis tasyai pankajam chaati shobhanam himavaan vaahanam simham ratnaani vividhaani cha The ocean gave Her a garland of unfading lotuses for Peace. Himavat gave Her a lion of courage to ride on .... 30. dada vashunyam surayaa paana paatram dhanaa dhipah sheshash cha sarva naagesho mahaamani vibhushitam The Lord of Wealth gave Her an ever-filled cup of the intoxicating Spirit of bliss. Sesha, the Lord of Serpents (Carrying Energy of Earthly Expressions), gave a necklace of brilliant gems. 31. naagahaaram dadau tasyai dhatte yah prithvi mimaam anyair api surair devi bhushanair aayudhais tathaa Other devas armed and adorned Her with weapons and ornaments. 32. sammaanitaa nana doch chaih saatta haasam muhur muhuh tasyaa naadena ghorena krtsna maapuritam nabhah After being worshipped repeatedly by devas, She roared with laughter. So thunderous was this laughter that it rolled and echoed through space. 33. amaayataa timahataa prati shabdo mahaana bhut chakshu bhuh sakalaa lokaah samu dhraash cha chakampire Cosmic Mother Devi filled space of three worlds with Her fundamental hilarity. Its echo caused space to fill with climatic rage and seas to quake with storms. 34. chachaala vasudhaa chelu sakalaash cha mahi dharaah jayeti devaash cha mudaa taamuchh simha vaahinim Earth and mountains rocked. Devas rejoiced and said: ìVictory to Youî 35. tushtuvur munayash chainaam bhakti namraatma murtayah drshtvaa samastam samkshub dham trailokya mama raara yah Dvitiyo Dhyaayah 59

Sagesí dearly beloved offered Her their devotion. Mortals praised Her Image of one able to keep three worlds in turmoil. 36. samnad dhaakhila sainyaaste samuttasthu rudaayu dhaah aah kimetaditi krodhaad aabhaashya mahishaasurah Army of negative thoughts speculated about the commotion. They mobilized armies and weapons in readiness. Egoistic Mahishasura in anger exclaimed: ìWhat is going on?î 37. abhaya dhaavata tam shabdam asheshair asurair vritah sa dadarsha tato devim vyaapta loka trayaam tvishaa Mahishasura assembled his unconstructive army and blindly ran towards the source of the clamor. He saw Mother Natureís shine pervade the three worlds 38. paadaa krantyaa nata bhuvam kiritoli khitaam baraam kshobhitaa shesha paataalaam dhanur gyaanih svanena taam She inactivated earthís movement with the might of Her feet. She scraped the sky with Her tiara. She shook all seven regions of rearmost worlds with the resonant play of Her bow. 39. disho bhuja sahasrena samantaad vyaapya samsthitaam tatah prava vrte yudham tayaa devyaa suradvi shaam She stood there pervading everything within Her thousand arms. Then a battle between Egoís army of negative thoughts and Mother Nature began. 40. shastraas trair bahudhaa muktair aadi pita digantaram mahishaasura senaa nish chikshuraa khyo mahaasurah Arsenals were hurled everywhere. Ego Mahishasuraís general Udgara who is lacking of clear-understanding rose to do battle with Mahalakshmi. 41. yuyudhe chaamarash chaanyaish chatur anga balaan vitah rathaa naama yutaih shadbhir uda graa khyo mahaasurah Chamara who is Lord of Fickle thought fought with four divisions of army. Chikshura who Lords over haughty thoughts joined with the sixty thousand chariots. 42. ayudhyataayu taanaam cha sahasrena mahaahanuh panchaa shad bhishcha niyutair asilomaa mahaasurah Also fighting were Deceitful Mahahanu with ten million foot soldiers of deception and frustrated Asiloman joined by an army of frustrated thoughts. 43. ayutaanaam shataih shadbhir baashkalo yuyudhe rane gajavaaji sahasrau ghair anakaih pari vaaritah Six million memories led by Bhaashkalo now entered the battlefield with elephants and horses. Parivarita with his wandering thoughts also joined the army. 44. vrito rathaanaam kotyaa cha yuddhe tasminna yudhyata bidaalaakshyo yutaanaam cha panchaa shadbhi rathaa yutaih 60 The Cosmic Connection

Under the leadership of hypocritical Bitaala his two-faced army of thoughts joined on chariots. 45. yuyudhe samyuge tatra rathaanaam parivaaritah anye cha tatraa yutasho ratha naagaha yair vritaah Parivartaís wandering thoughts joined in the thousands with chariots, elephants and horses to fight. 46. yuyudhuh samyuge devyaa saha tatra mahaasuraah koti koti saha-sraistu rathaanaam dantinaam tathaa While negative thoughts fought Mother Nature and more negative thoughts gathered. 47. hayaanaam cha vrito yuddhe tatraa bhun mahishaasurah tomarair bhindhi paalaish cha shaktibhir musalais tathaa Egoistic thought Mahishasur now joined in battle. He came with a large powerful bayonet as well as a small scepter. 48. yuyudhuh samyuge devyaa khadgaih parashu pattishaih kechi cha chikshi puh shaktih kechit paashaam stathaa pare Other thoughts joined and fought Chhandi who destroys thoughts. They tried striking Her with their combined forces. They tried to fasten Her in their restrictive designs. 49. devim kadga prahaar aistu te taam hantum pracha kramuh saapi devi tata staani shas traanya straani chandikaa They struck Nature to kill Her. Chhandika who tears apart Thoughts showered them with Her own technique of weaponry. 50. lilayaiva prachich cheda nija shastraa stra varshini anaaya sthaana naa devi stuya maanaa surar shibhih She playfully rained Her mantras on Her attackers while positive thoughts praised Her with important vibrational hymns. 51. mumoch aasura deheshu shastraanya straani cheshvari sopi kruddho dhutasato devyaa vaahana kesari Ishvari, without slightest effort, destroyed thought missiles from Her attackers. Lion Chhandika who She was riding shook his mane in rage. 52. chachara asura sainyeshu vane shvivaa hutaa shanah niha shvaasaan mumuche yaamsh cha yudhya maanaa rane mbika The lion strolled through armies of thoughts. Sighs came from Ambika who removes difficulties. They became battalions to fight negative thought army. 53. ta eva sadya sam bhutaa ganaah shata sahasrashah yuyudhuste parashubhir bhindi paalaasi pati shaih Her followers were empowered with arsenals to destroy all negative thoughts. 54. nasha yanto sura ganaan devi shaktyupa brm hitaah avaada yanta patahaan ganaah shankhaam stathaa pare Dvitiyo Dhyaayah 61

Battalions of negative thoughts were destroyed by Her power. Many negative thoughts were smashed by the beat of percussion and vibration coming from Her conch. 55. mridang aamshcha tathai vaanye tasmin yuddha mahotsave tato devi trishulena gadayaa shakti vrishtibhih Playing Her cymbals and swinging Her club and trident, She rained Her energy to destroy negative thoughts in the battlefield. 56. khadgaadi bhishcha shatasho nijaghaana mahaasuraan paatayaa maasa chaivaan yaan ghantaa svanavi mohitaan Stupefied by the sound of OM from Her bell, negative thoughts fell unconscious. She dragged them and cut up asuric thoughts with Her sword. Some got injured but many got killed. 57. asuraan bhoovi paashena baddhvaa chaanyaana karshayat kechid dvidhaa kritaa stikshnaih khadga paatais tathaa pare Negative thoughts that fell were bound in nets and dragged into earth. Many were destroyed with Her sharp-edged sword. 58. vipothitaa nipaatena gadayaa bhuvi sherate vemush cha kechid rudhiram moosalena bhrisham hataah Many wounded negative thoughts fell and were clubbed to death. Many were struck by Her scepter. Injured thoughts vomited blood. 59. kechini patitaa bhumau bhinnaah shoolena vakshaasi nirantar aah sharau ghena kritaah kechid ranaajire Some negative thoughts pierced through the heart died in a heap from wounds made with Her trident. Many also got pierced by arrows 60. shyenaanu kaarinah praanaan mumu chustrida shaardanaah keshaam chid baahavash chinnaash china grivaas tathaapare Many negative thoughts that tormented devas gave up their needed breath 61. shiraamsi peturanye shaamanye madhye vidaaritaah vi-chinna janghaastva pare petur urvyaam mahaasuraah Others negative thoughts with broken arms and necks were reduced to dust. Many beheaded ones were divided through their middles. 62. eka baah vakshi charanaah kechid devyaa dvidhaa kritaah chinnepi chaanye shirasi pati-taah punarut thi-taah Although made limbless and headless, some thought-asuras spontaneously rose to fight again despite their maimed states. 63. kabandhaa yuyudhur devyaa grhita paramaa yudhaah nanritush chaapare tatra yuddhe turya layaa shritaah Headless trunks fought or danced in the battlefield asking Chhandi to stop. 64. kabandhaash chinna shirasah khadga shaktyrshti paanayah thishta tishtheti bhaashanto devimanye mahaasooraah 62 The Cosmic Connection

Where this terrible battle took place, Earth was covered with destroyed chariots, elephants, horses and Negative-Thoughts. There was no path to be found to come or go. 65. paatitai ratha naagaashvair ashuraishcha vasundharaa agamyaa saabhavat tatra yatraa bhutsa mahaa ranah From the army of negative thoughts ran a river of blood. 66. shonitaughaa mahaa nadyah sadyas tatra prasusruvuh madhye chaasura sainyasya vaaranaasura vaajinaam Blood spilled into rivers from negative thought armies. 67. kshanena tanmahaa sainyam asuraanaam tathaambikaa ninye kshayam yathaa vahnis trnadaaru mahaachayam In an instant, armies of negative thoughts perished into Mother Universe. Like with grass and dry timber, they were reduced to ashes by a great fire. 68. sa cha simho mahaanaadam utsr jandhuta kesarah sharirebhyo maraari naama suniva vichinvati The lion prowled the battlefield in search of negative thoughts that were still alive. He roared and extracted all residual life force from them. 69. devyaa ganaish cha tais tatra krtam yuddham mahaasuraih yathai shaam tutushur devaa pushpa vrshti mucho divi Thus Chhandika fought armies of negative thoughts and happy celestials showered Earth with flowers. Iti shri markandeya purane savarnike manvantare devi mahaatmye mahishaasura sainya vadhonaam dhritiyo adhyaayaha This ends Chapter Two of Chhandi called ìSlaughter of Thought Armies of Ego - Mahishasuraî. The sage Markandeya tells three tales. Each is an allegory of outer and inner experience, symbolized by the fierce battles Devi wages against crowds of demonic thought foes. Her opponents are human urges, motives, driving forces arising from search for indulgence, power, possessions and satisfaction while under illusions of self-importance. The battlefield of Devi Mahatmya is the killing ground representing human consciousness. The Devi, personified as one supreme Goddess and many goddesses, confronts demons of ego and dispels our mistaken ideas of whom we are. Paradoxically it is Mahamaya who creates the misunderstanding first, and it is She alone who awakens us to our true being. Authoritarian wise governance and prudent upbringing through sympathetic parenting is necassary. Key strategies of authority in one or all families that make up a country want conditions of safety, schooling, well-being, employment and poverty-reduction for empowering honest people [devas]. These indices [good thoughts] portray a use of words rather than real action about lofty ideals. Even academic environment is not conducive to REAL learning. Value orientation of youth is the only way to mobilize and empower them with ìvirtues of honesty, skill, selfless service, moral Dvitiyo Dhyaayah 63 goodness and patriotismî. Government should be expressions of these values and morality. Instead, they are encouraging and organizers of criminal and unconstitutional actions. By Swami Shivananda Divine Life Society The sage started that in days of yore, there was a great war between Devas and Asuras, for one hundred years. The leader of the Asuras was Mahisha and of Devas was Indra. Devas were defeated by powerful and Mahishasura who became rulers of Devas in Heaven. Defeated Devas complained to Brahma. All went to Vishnu and Rudra to tell their lamentable story. ìO Lords! We are removed from power by terrible Mahishasura. Surya, Indra, Agni, Yama, Varuna, -all are defeated. We now wander earthlike mortals. We come to You for help. Please arrange for his destruction.î Hearing these words, Lord Vishnu was angry and opened his eye in the middle of His two eyebrows. Rudra and Brahma also opened their . There was a powerful effulgence bursting forth from their foreheads. Even from foreheads of all Devas an effulgence burst forth and became united to become a power the size of a big mountain. All the quarters were illumined by this heavenly Light. Slowly this effulgence took the form of a Woman. She was created from effulgence-parts of Siva - Her face; from Yama, Her hair; from Vishnu Her hands; and from Brahma Her legs. Finally She was essence of all heavenly beings, including the visiting Devas who were glad to look at Her. All Devas gave Her their respective important weapons to fight the Asuras. She now roared and sky and earth began to tremble with shock which echoed in all worlds. Devas began praising Her through hymns. Asuras saw a Form approaching and unable to make out they immediately collected their army against Devi. Mahishasura and his fear fell on Devi in great fury. Devi covered the three worlds. Now began the great fight between Devi and Asuras. Chikshura and Chamara, both Commanders of the Asura army fought in the beginning with thousands of chariots. Then Udagra, another powerful , with his friend, Asiloma, came to Devi with crores of warriors. Bashkala came withthousands of elephants and horses. Vidala came with fifty thousand weapons. Chariots, elephants, horses and fighters on foot brought by Mahishasura were countless in number. There were so many warriors that even the whole world was not enough to hold them ñ now someone noted Devi was single on Her lion. Then, Mahishasura himself came there with millions of elephants and horses, weapons and warriors. Some Asuras threw missiles on Devi but She destroyed them in exercised activity. She reduced all into the earth. There were mountains of dead Asuric bodies and rivers of blood. The ferocious lion Devi rode on tore up Asuras and drank their blood to his heartís content. All was destroyed and Devi shone like the sun rising above a mountain of Asuras. Devas rained showers of flowers from above. 64 The Cosmic Connection

3. In terms of greatness of verses, the Goddessís martial exploits are chief. In excellence, these are surpassed by hymns to the Goddess. The power of DevÓ M‚h‚tmya gathers its expectations from its hymnic material. Its lengthy digressive account and its symbolism are lost to most in the world. Durga, the great Warrior Goddess, represents the lethal energy of divine anger when turned against evil. The world was under attack by Mahishasura, the most evil demon in the world, who took many different forms, including that of a buffalo. The male gods, fearing total annihilation granted Durga with their powers. Riding a lion into battle, Durga slew the buffalo by cutting off its head and then she destroyed the spirit of the demon as it emerged from the buffaloís severed neck. It is through this act that order was fixed in the world. This battle sketches the spiritual struggle below draws a response from above... Chhandi the divine energy necessary to work the great plan of Evolution starts with tackling Ego in all its facets. Ego is most difficult to destroy, but with the help of Chhandi, even that is possible. Struggle happens through a discriminating faculty of intellect and mind. An unenlightened chitta (mind-intellect-ego) takes the form of ìmoods and feelingsî. Chitta is noticeable as thoughts taking the shape of confusion (chakshura), anger (krodha), fickleness (chamara), haughtiness (udagra), disbelief (karaala), arrogance (uddhata), memories (bhashkala), anxiety (taamara), blindness (andhaka), temper (ugrasya), passionate desire (ugravirya), deceit (mahahaanu), duplicity (bidaala), temptation (duradhara), and foul-mouthing (durmukha). Asuric or negative thoughts, represent the growing efforts of materialistic humanity who self-serve for purposes of separateness, self-ishness, disunion, shattering, and disruption. Durga, the ruler of the universe rides a powerful lion symbolising higher emotions in humankind. Struggles with stubborn buffalo-like ego are against lower passions of want, greed, anger, possessiveness, pride and jealousy. A sincere devotee needs Chhandi to subdue egoistic thoughts and of its army generals. A seekerís chitta despite old habits, ideas, opinions, and likes-dislikes becomes united with intuitive intelligence. This brings about a union of Awareness with Consciousness. This is the ascent of Manís spirit through human evolution. Atha-tritiyo-dhyaa-yaha dhyaanam Meditating: aum

64 Atha-tritiyo-dhyaa-yaha 65

1. rishir uvaacha The rishi said: 2. nihanya maanam tat sainyam avalokya mahaasurah senaanish chikshurah kopaa dyayau yoddhumath aambikaam Having seen Mother slay the Army of thoughts, Ego Mahishasuraís haughty General Chikshura angrily advanced to fight Ambika. 3. sa devim sharavar shena vavarsha samaresurah yathaa meru gireh shrn-gam toya-var-shena toya-dah Like rain-showering on Mount Meru, he rained many doubtful thoughts on the Devi. 4. tasyach chitvaa tato devi lilayaiva sharot karaan jaghaan aturagaan baanair yantaa ram chaiva vaaji naam Devi responded by destroying armies of doubtful thoughts as soon as they appeared. She killed their horses and charioteers with vague-concepts. 5. chichcheda cha dhanuh sadyo dhvajam chaati samuch charitam vivyaadha chaiva gaatreshu china dhanvaana maa shugaih She split their demonic bow, destroyed their poster and attacked them with Her arrows. 6. sachinna dhanvaa viratho hataashvo hata saarathih abhya dhaavata taam devim khadga charma dharo surah Without armor or chariot, injured negative thoughts nonetheless attacked Devi with their thwarts and screen. 7. simha maahatya khadgena tikshna dhaarena murdhani aajaghaana bhuje svaye devi mapyati vegavaan Haughty Chikshura confusedly hit the lion on its head and with his blade struck Devi on Her left arm. 8. tasyaah khadgo bhujam praapya pafaala nrpa nandana tato jagraaha shulam sa kopaa daruna lochanah When the sword touched Her body, it burst into pieces. Haughty confused thought, now angry picked up his trident. 9. chikshepa cha tatas tatu bhadra kaalyaam mahaasurah jaajvalya maanam tejobhi ravibimba mivaam baraat Furious, he flung the blazing trident at Bhadrakali. It seemed as if he was hurling the Sun at Her. 10. drshtvaa tadaa patach chulam devi shula mamunchata tachchulam shatadhaa tena nitam sa cha mahaasurah When She saw the trident coming, Devi flung Her trident at haughty Chikshura with confused thought which not only destroyed his trident but also cut the demonic thought into many pieces. 66 The Cosmic Connection

11. hate tasmin mahaavirye mahishasya chamupatau aajagaama gajaa rudhash chaamarastri dashaar danah Now as soon as ego Mahisasuraís haughty army general Chiksura was killed, another fickle Chamara mounted an elephant to attack Devi. 12. sopi shaktim mumochaatha devyaastaam ambikaa drutam humkaaraa bhiha taam bhumau paatayaa maasa nish prabhaam Fickle Chamara hurled his spear at Devi, but Ambika destroyed Chamaraís thought with Her mantra ìHumî which not only wounded him but deprived him of light. He fell to the earth. 13. bhagnaam shaktim nipatitaam drshtvaa krodha samanvitah chikshepa chaamarah shulam banaistad api saach chinat Angered at seeing his energy destroyed, fickle Chamara flung his trident at Devi who destroyed it with Her arrows. 14. tatah simhah samut patya gajakum bhaantare sthitah Baahu yudhena yuyudhe tenoch chaistrida shaarinaa In all of this the lion jumped on of the elephantís head, and began an intense battle with its Thoughts too. 15. yuddhya maanau tatastau tu tasmaan naagaan mahimgatau yuyudhaate tisamrab dhau prahaar airati daarunaih They both fought recklessly, until both fell to the ground. Both rose and fought fiercely again. 16. tato vegaat khamut patya nipatya cha mrigaa rinaa kara prahaarena shirash chaamarasya pritak krtam The Lion sprung up into the sky and landed on fickle Chamara and beheaded him with a blow of his paw. 17 udagrash cha rane devyaa shilaa vrkshaa dibhir hatah dantamushti talaish chaiva karaalash cha nipaa titah Haughty Udagra meantime was felled by Devi first with trees and stones, while Karaala overcome by thoughts of disbelief was killed by the lionís teeth. 18. devi krudhaa gadaa paataish churna yaamaasa choddha tam baashkalam bhindhi paalena baanai staamram tath aandhakam Devi next crushed arrogant Uddhata to powder. Next She felled memory in Bhashkala with Her sword. She then destroyed anxious Taamara and blind Andhakawith Her arrows. 19. ugraasyam ugraviryam cha tathaiva cha mahaahanum trinetraa cha trishulena jaghaana parameshwari The three eyed Ishvari, who Sees all levels of expression, destroyed angry Ugraasya, passionate and immoral Ugravirya and deceitful Mahaahanu who she pierced with Her trident. Atha-tritiyo-dhyaa-yaha 67

20. bidaala syaasinaa kaayaat paata yaamaasa vai shirah durdharam durmukham chobhau sharair ninye yamak shayam Next She felled hypocritical Bidaalaís head with a sword, and killed both luring Duradhara, and spiteful Durmukha with Her arrows 21. evam samkshiya maane tu svasainye mahishaasurah maahishena svarupena traasa yaamaasa taan ganaam Seeing his army of thoughts destroyed, egoistic Mahishasura assumed the form of a buffalo and started terrifying Deviís troops of undifferentiated spirits - ghanas and pishas. 22. kaamash chit tunda prahaarena khurak shepais tathaa paraan laangulataadi tamsh chaanyaan chringaa bhyaam cha vidaaritaan Sometimes the buffalo fought with his snout. At other times he kicked his hooves. Sometimes he whipped with his tail and sometimes dazedly ripped with his horns. 23. vegena kaamsh chidaparaan naadena bhramanena cha nihshvaasa pavane naanyaan paatayaa maasa bhutale Ego fought with speed as he raised a war cry. Forcefullypuffing the buffalo form of Mahishasura scattered Deviís ground troops. 24. nipaatya pramathaani kam abhya dhaavata sosurah simham hantum mahaadevyaah kopam chakre tatombikaa She laid down Her weapons and of Her army but Mahishasura advanced to kill the lion instead. Devi then became angry. 25 sopi kopaan mahaaviryah khurak shuna maahitalah shringaabhyaam parvatanuch chaamsh chikshepa cha nanaada cha The evil buffalo also became angry and he kicked Earth, and lifted large mountains with his horns. He threw these off the beaten track and roared viciously. 26. vega bhramana vikshunaa mahi tasya vyashiryata aangulenaa hatash chaabdhih plaavayaa maa-sa sarvatah Earth below split in fear. Mahishasuraís tail lashed at the sea of wants causing the waters to flood Earth. 27. dhutashringa vibhin naashcha kha-dam khandam yayur ghanaah shvaasaa nilaastaah shatasho nipetur nabhaso-chalaah Tossing his horns, he dashed and split the clouds to pieces... Violent winds at high-speed were stirred and mountains fell from their heights. 28. iti krodha sam aadhmaa tama patantam mahaasuram drshtvaa saa chandika kopam tadvadhaaya tadaakarot While waging this battle, Mahishasura advanced towards Her in anger. Chhandi became angry and prepared to kill him. 68 The Cosmic Connection

29. saa kshiptvaa tasya vai paasham tam babandha mahaasuram tatyaaja maahisham rupam sopi baddho mahaamr-dhe Throwing Her net, She bound the buffalo Mahishasura. Once he was pinned down, Ego left the stubborn Buffalo and assumed his normal form carrying a sword. 30. tatah simho bhavat-sadyo yaavat tasy aambikaa shirah chinatti taavat purushah khadga paanir adrshyata The Devi was about to kill him, when he manifested as a fierce Lion. While preparing to behead him he changed to man with a sword. 31. tata evaashu purusham devi chichcheda saayakaih tam khadga charmanaa saarddham tatah so bhun mahaagajah Now Devi rained a shower of arrows and was ready to pierce him with Her sword, when he took the form of hugely strong King of Elephants. 32. karena cha mahaasimham tam chakarsha jagarja cha karshatastu karam devi khadgena nira krntata With his trunk he tried to drag Deviís lion ... As he was pulling, Devi chopped Egoís agility with Her sword. 33. tato mahaasuro bhuyo maahishaam vapur aasthitah tathaiva kshobha yaamaasa trailokyam sacharaacharam Egoistic thought again wore the body of a stubborn Buffalo and shook the three worlds. 34. tatah krudhaa jaganmaataa chandikaa paana muttamam papau punah punash chaiva jahaa saaruna lochanaa Nature was enraged with Ego. As Chhandi she tore him apart. She started drinking his blood which made Her eyes turn red. Now in excellent form for action, She started to laugh. 35. nanarda chaasura sopi balavirya madod dhatah vishaanaa bhyaam cha chikshepa chandikaam prati bhudhadraan Ego now sheared of stubbornness, strength, dexterity, and fierceness became bold. In the false belief of invincibility, he roared at the Devi. Drunk with his strength and valor, Ego lifted mountains with illogical mindlessness and hurled them at Chhandi. 36. saa cha taan prahitaam stena churnayanti sharot karaih uvaacha tam madod dhuta mukha raagaa kulaak sharam She started pulverising the mountains hurled at Her and spiritedly spoke to Mahashisura. 37. devy-uvaacha The devi said: 38. garja garja kshanam mudha madhu yaavat pibaa myaham mayaa tvayi hate traiva garji shyantyaashu devataah Atha-tritiyo-dhyaa-yaha 69

Roar, roar oh fool while I drink this wine intent to destroy you. When I have slain you, My Spirit will be overjoyed and good thoughts (devas) will rejoice with Me too. 39. rishir uvaacha The rishi said: 40. eva muktvaa samut patya saa rudhaa tam mahaasuram paadenaa kramya kanthe cha shulenaina mataadayat Having said that, Chhandi jumped and landed on the great Ego. She throttled him by his neck with Her foot and struck him with Her spear. 41. tatah sopi padaa kraantas tayaa nija mukhaat tatah ardhanish kraanta evaasid devyaa viryena samvrtah Refusing to die, the great Ego caught under the foot of Devi, again changed his form. The asura issued only halfway (partially enlightened Ego). Chhandi restrained even this partially manifesting Ego with great effort, so mighty was his strength. 42. ardhanish kraanta evaasau yudhya maano mahaasurah tayaa mahaasinaa devyaa shirashchitvaa nipaa titahah Even with a partial expression, Egoistic thought fought Chhandi but She chopped off his head with a double-edged sword of Love. 43. tato haahaa-krtam sarvam daitya sainyam nanaasha tat praharsham cha param jagmuh sakalaa devataa ganaah Seeing Mahishasura dead the army of Thoughts ran around in confusion. They ran away and automatically self-destroyed. Privileged thoughts or devas were over- joyed. 44. tustu vustaam suraa devim saha divyair maharishi bhih jagur gandharva patayo nanr tush chaap saroganaah In the bliss of great contentment, Devic thoughts praised Chhandi while the heavenly nymphs sang and danced in joy. Iti shri markandey puraane saavarnike manvantare devi mahaatmye Maahishasura vadho naam tritiyo adhyaayaha Here ends the Third Chapter called the ìSlaying of Mahishasuraî (Ego) of Devi-Mahatmya in Markandeya Puraana during the period of Savarni, the Manu.

By Swami Shivananda Mahishasuraís charioteer teased Devi and tried to kill Her lion. She decame angry and with one stroke of Her Trisula cut off his hand and threw it a hundred miles away. Seeing this, Chamara, companion of Mahisha, came with his missile, but with one ìHumî Devi burned all to ashes. Devi jumped up and slashed his head off. Next Udagra came with trees for weapons. Filled with rage She powdered Udagra, 70 The Cosmic Connection

Karala, Bashkala, Durdhara, Durmukha, and Vidala - all were sent to Yamaís abode.. Mahishasura now wanted to battle with Devi in person. With all his assistants slain, he had no choice. He assumed the form of a ferocious buffalo and harassed Devi. With a powerful blow of his tail, horns and hoofs, he created sounds that shook the earth. He next fell on the Deviís lion and struck it with a mighty sword. The lion roared and Mahisharura soon saw his own legs being torn. Mahishasuraís tail struck the oceans and it seemed as if the world would end. With kicks given clouds were broken to pieces and thrown in all directions. Earth was wrecked and it simply looked dreadful. Just when Devi was about to kill him, he assumed the form of a lion and fell on Devi; immediately he took another form of a Rakshasa with a sword to chop down Devi. She threw Her weapons on Mahishasura but immediately he became a huge elephant. Deviís lion jumped on the elephant and again the Asura took the form of a buffalo. Now, Mother of Worlds opened Her red eyes and repeatedly said, ìO wicked Asura! Roar ñ keep roaring. Your end is near. I will drink your blood with joy. Come on. That would please the Devas.î Saying that, Devi caught held him by his neck, and tore his legs apart. There was great joy among Devas who praised Devi for Her valor and victory. sang and danced. 4. Atha Chaturtho Adhyaa-Yaha

Chapter 4 is a hymn called Sakradi-stuti At the end of episode two, after the Goddess has conquered demon Mahishasura and his hordes of negative thoughts, the gods with Indra, praise Her. In this chapter, Devas meet with Devi. She is pleased with their adoration. They accept Her plan of evolution of Her Creation. Devas ask for Her protection and become part of Her Great Plan for development individually and collectively. In Her many forms, not only does Durga descend human race into a pleasure- seeking mortal, but She also guides them through their ascent for liberation. dhyaanam Meditating: 1. aum rshir uvaacha The rishi said: 2. shakraa dayah sura ganaa nihate tivirye tasmin dura atmani suraaribale cha devyaa taam tushtuvuh pranati namra shiro dharaamsaa vaagbhih praharsha pulakod gamachaa rudehaah After the death of evil aggressive thought-Ego and destructing his army of perturbed-thoughts, Indra, with the host thoughts of welfare approached the Devi who destroys all houghts with their heads bowed in reverence. They sang hymns of praise and their bodies emitted beautiful vibrations. 3. devyaa yayaa tatam idam jagadaat mashaktyaa nishshesha devaganaa shakti samuha murtyaa taam ambikaam akhila deva maharshi pujyaam bhaktyaa nataah sma vida-dhaatu shubhaani saa nah Chhandiís intrinsic nature is to amass energies of all expression, which She pervades in Her Universe. She, who is Holy Spirit is held in high esteem by devas and of Wisdom. She is offered reverence by all so She grants us all well-being. 4. yasyaah prabhaavam atulam bhagavaan ananto brahmaa harashcha na hi vaktu malam balam cha saa chandikaa khila jagat pari paalanaaya naashaa-ya chaashubha bhayasya matim karotu Her greatness and strength is beyond compare throughout humanity. It is said,

71 72 The Cosmic Connection

even Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva who she created, and sustains, disband with Her creation. There is nobody who can praise Her enough. May the World Empress who destroys troublesome thought, protect the Universe from devastation, terror and pollution. 5. yaa shrih svayam sukrti naam bhavan eshva lakshmih paap aatma naam krtadhi yaam hrday eshu buddhih shradhaa sataam kulajana prabhavasya lajjaa taam tvaam nataah sma pari paalaya devi vishvam Chhandi who is Lakshmi ñ Goddess of true wealth in homes of the virtuous is also pain and unhappiness in homes of the evil. She is Intelligence in hearts of the learned, Faith to the truthful, and Humility in the noble. To that divine Devi, we bow in reverence. May You protect the universe. 6. kim varnayamaa tava rupam achintyam etat kim chati-viryam asur akshaya kaari bhuri kim chaaha veshu charitaani tavaad bhutaani sarveshu devyasura deva ganaa-dikeshu How does one describe Your inconceivable expression, or Your uncanny behavior displayed on the battlefield, or how You battle armies of thoughts, or how You heroically exterminate thoughts of evil intent. 7. hetuh samasta jagataam trigunaapi doshair na gyaanase hariharaadi bhirapya paaraa sarvaa shraya akhilamidam jag-dam shabutam avyaakrtaa hi paramaa prakrtis tvamaadyaa You are the First Cause before Creation. Inherent in You are Qualities of Matter (gunas of tamas-rajas-sattva), but their faults do not affect You. You are inconceivable even to Brahma, Vishnu or Shiva, yet You uphold them. You are substratum of visible and invisible universe - the subtle Original Being. 8. yasyaah samasta surataa samu diranena trptim prayaati sakaleshu makeshu devi svaahaasi vai pitrgan-asya cha trpti hetur uchaaryase tvamata eva janaih svadhaa cha You are svaaha, by which gods gain satisfaction in all sacrifices; You are svadhaa which gives satisfaction to ancestors; You are offerings raised by seekers at sacrifices; The words svaaha and svadhaa give contentment to performers of sacrifices. 9. yaa mukti heturavi chintya mahaavrataa tvam abhyasyase suniya tendriya tatva saaraih mokshaarthi bhir munibhir asta samasta doshair vidyaasi saa bhagavati paramaa hi devi For those who seek liberation and realization, You define the path by knowledge, Atha Chaturtho Adhyaa-Yaha 73

austerities, constant practice, until You are gradually arrived at. To become empty of self-defects, even sages control their senses. Only by a yearning for liberation does a seeker reach supreme Knowledge of Realisation. You are Bhagavati, the supreme vidya of liberation. 10. shabd aatmikaa suvi malargya jushaam nidhaanam udgi tharamya padapaatha vataam cha saamnaam devi trayi bhagavati bhava bhaavanaaya vaart taa cha sarva jagataam paramaartti hantri You are Intrinsic Nature of Sound and appear first as Sabda-Brahman; You are Udgitha or Omkara and Purity in Rig veda and Saaman; You are Music of Praise in Yajur and Saama Vedas. Bhagavati You are Foundation of three Vedas and it is You who is the manifesting-sustaining-dissolving forms of this Universe as Mahakali, Mahalakshmi, and Mahasarasvati. You annhilate both Fear and Pain in of all revealed worlds. 11. medhaasi devi viditaakhila shaastrasaaraa durgaasi durgabhava saagara naura-sangaa shrih kaitabhaari hrdayai kakrtaadhi vaasaa gauri tvameva shashimauli krta pratishthaa Devi You are essence of Intellect by which scriptures are understood. You are Durga, reliever of difficulties - the boat humanity takes to cross ocean of want triggered displayed existence. You are Shri Lakshmi of true wealth who remains in Vishnuís heart as Awareness. You are Gauri (Parvati Goddess of energy) fixed in the Light of Shiva. 12. ishat sahaasa mamalam pari purna Chandra bimbaanu kaarikana kottama kaanti kaantam atyad bhutam prahrta maatarushaa tathaapi vaktram vilokya sahasaa mahishaa surena Smiling gently, like the beautiful full moon, it is that reflection where one sees Your beautiful face. Yet strangely, even after seeing it, ego shook with anger, and Mahishaasura struck Your face when he saw It. 13. drshtvaa tu devi kupitam bhrukuti karaalam udyach chashaanka sadrshaach chavi yanna sadyah praanaam mumocha mahishas tadativa chitram kairjivyate hi kupitaan taka darshanena Far stranger it is that after seeing Your anger and frown, Your appearance flushed like the rising moon. Ego who is aware that his action could destroy his family, did not give up his fight. Instead ego wished his individuality even after seeing the face of his destroyer. 14. devi prasida paramaa bhavati bhavaaya sadyo vinashayasi kopavati kulaani 74 The Cosmic Connection

vignyaatam etada dhunaiva yadastametan nitam balam suvipulam mahishaasurasya O Supreme devi, be gracious when You are pleased with the intrinsic soul of Universe, its entire world enjoys welfare and its prosperity. When your anger shows, entire families of evil ways are destroyed. We witnessed You destroying ego and his army of thoughts. 15. te sammataa janapadeshu dhanaani teshaam teshaam yashaamsi na cha sidati dharma vargah dhanyaasta eva nibhrtaat maja bhrtya daaraa yeshaam sadaabhyu dayadaa bhavati prasannaa You who are always bountiful with whom You are pleased with their works, wealth and glories. They are respected by their country for their righteous activities and do not perish because they support harmony and wisdom. They are possessed of blessed children, servants and wives. 16. dharmayaani devi sakalaani sadaiva karmaan yatyaa drtah pratidinam sukrti karoti svargam prayaati cha tato bhavati prasaadaal lokatraye-pi phaladaa nanu devi tena By Your grace, blessed ones do their daily righteous deeds with utmost care, faith, and devotion. They by it gain heaven. You are the bestower of rewards and actions in the three worlds. 17. durge smrtaa harasi bhitima shesha jantoh svasthaih smrtaa matimativa shubhaam dadaasi daaridrya dukha bhaya haarini kaa tvadanyaa sarvo-pakaara karanaaya sadaa rdra chitaa When called to mind in difficult times, You remove fear. When called in happier times of sadhana, You grant more piety. Who but You oh Mother can dispel fear, pain and poverty. You alone extend compassionate support to everyone. 18. ebhir ha-tair jagad upaiti sukham tathai te kurvantu naama narakaaya chiraaya paapam sam graama mrtyum adhigamya divam prayaantu matveti nuna mahitaan vinihamsi devi This entire Universe arrives at happiness by killing thoughts of fear, pain, and poverty. Though ill-advised asuric thoughts have committed sins by indulgence, allow them to reach heaven by meeting their death in battle with You. When one thinks thus, Mother, you destroy all thoughts of good or bad. 19. drsht vaiva kim na bhavati prakaroti bhasma sarvaa suraanarishu yatprahi noshi shastram lokaan prayaantu ripavo-pi hi shaastra putaa ittham matir bhavati teshvapi te tisaadhvi Atha Chaturtho Adhyaa-Yaha 75

You could lessen all asuric thoughts of indulgences, opinions and habits to ashes by your mere look. They would become purified by Your weapons and decontaminated for higher ideals, but You allow them liberty to express every wayward Thoughts. Such is your kindly way even towards unenlightened wanting. 20. khadga prabhaani kara visphura-nais tathograih sulaagra kaanti nivahena drsho suraanaam yannaa-gataa vilaya mam shumad indu khanda yogyaana-nam tava vilokaya taam tadetat If light of Awareness from your weapons did not screen eyes of misplaced thoughts, it must be because thoughts only saw a beautiful reflection of the Light of moon. Seeing Your reflection, asuric thoughts had the notion they were seeing the giver of bliss in that vision of Your beautiful face. 21. durvrtta vrtta shamanam tava devi shilam rupam tathai tada vichintyam atulya manyaih viryam cha hantr hrtadeva paraakra-maanaam vairishvapi prakati taiva dayaa tvayet tham Devi, Your natural tendency of sattva is to neutralise conduct of tamasic or negative and rajasic or positive thoughts. Those devoted to Your peerless beauty as Nature, find it inconceivable to behave in any other way except what You wish for us. It is therefore natural that Your power destroys megative thoughts that do harm using creativity of rajasic thoughts, and You thus display as compassion even for conflict-driven thoughts that harm. 22. keno pamaa bhavatu te-sya paraa-kramasya rupam cha shatru bhaya kaarya ti haari kutra chitte krpaa samara nishthurtaa cha drshtaa tvayyeva devi varade bhuvana traye-pi Oh, Mother who grants all wants, it is impossible to describe Your valor. Where can one find beauty of form, striking fear in Your enemies? There is compassion in Your heart and ruthlessness against evil, as has been witnessed while You were in battle. 23. trailokyam etadakhilam ripu naashanena traatam tvayaa samara murdhani tepi hatvaa nitaa divam ripuganaa bhayam apya paastam asmaakamun mada suraari bhavam namaste In these three worlds two qualities of compassion and ruthlessness are obvious in You while engaged in destroying enemies. These three worlds are protected by You always, because even after killing enemies of thoughts, You lead them towards higher heavens, and towards world of devas. You dispel fear of troublesome thoughts disturbing good works of welfare. Salutations. 76 The Cosmic Connection

24. shulena paahi no devi paahi khadgena chaambike ghantaa svanena nah paahi chaapa gyaanih svanena cha O Ambika, who is protector of the universe, please continue to protect us with Your spear and sword, and with the resonance of Your bell and with the strum of Your bow. 25. praachyaam raksha pratichyaam cha chandike raksha dakshine bhraamanen aatma shulasya uttarasyaam tatheshwari O Chhandika, who tears apart thoughts, protect us from disturbing thoughts from the east, west, north and south. Tear apart thoughts with Your lance, O Ishvari, who is Empress of the world. 26. saumyaani yaani rupaani trailokya vicharanti te yaani chaatyartha ghoraani tai rakshaas maams thataa bhuvam There are both beautiful and fearful forms of You in the three worlds; Protect the world and us from every side with Your various Forms. 27. khadga shula gadaadini yaani chaastraani tembike karaapalla vasangini tairasmaan raksha sarvatah Ambike, You who are Mother of Universe, please protect us from all sides with Your weapons. Protect us all with the touch of Your beautiful hands. 28. rsir uvaacha The rishi said: 29. evam stutaa surair divyaih kusumair nandanod bhavaih archita jagataam dhaatri tathaa gandhaa nulepa naih Thus, the sattvic thoughts praised Devi of revealed worlds. They worshipped Her with heavenly flowers from Nandana - the heavenly Garden of Delight. With devotion they offered Her five perfumes used in rituals [kum-kum (vermillion), aguru (gum of acacia), kasturi (musk), chandana () and karpura ()]. 30. bhaktyaa samastais tridashair divyair dhupaistu dhupitaa praaha prasaada sumukhi samastaan pranataan suraan Devas united in devotion offered Her food and , and then bowed to Her in homage with a serene peaceful expression. 31. devi uvaacha And devi spoke: 32. vriyataam tridashaah sarve yada smatto bhivaan chitam I will grant you fulfillment of your wishes. 33. deva uvaacha Gods spoke: 34. bhagavatyaa krtam sarvam na kinchid ava shishyate Everything about thought control is now carried out and nothing remains to be done. Atha Chaturtho Adhyaa-Yaha 77

35. yadayam nihatah shatrur asmaakam mahishasurah yadi chaapi varo deyas tvayaa smaakam maheshvari Since our enemies Mahishasura and his confused generals are killed, everything that needed doing for our sadhana is gifted O Maheshvari. 36. samsmrtaa samsmrtaa tvam no him sethaah para maapadah yashcha martyah stavair ebhis tvam stoshyatya malaanane Still if help is to be given, O Maheshvari, Mother of Universe, whatever mortal praises You receive, may You be gracious to them, giving them increasing knowledge, success, and greatness. 37. tasya vittard dhivi bhavair dhana daaraadi sampadaam vrddhaye smatprasanaa tvam bhavetaah sarvad aambike As well, protect all their belongings throughout their lives, and Mother of Universe please remain pleased with us and grant us plenty for the sake of welfare for a common good. 38 rshi uvaacha The rishi said: 39. iti prasaadi taa devair jagator-the tathaa- tma-nah tathet yuktvaa bhadrakaali babhuvaan tarhitaa nrpa O King, thus propitiated by the good thoughts, for their own sakes and for the ability to share prosperity, Bhadrakali, who is excellence beyond Time, was pleased and said: ìSo be itî and She vanished. 40. ityetat kathitam bhupa sambhutaa saa yathaa puraa devi deva sharirebhyo jagat traya hitaishini Thus I have recounted this story, O King, of how Mother Nature, who desires good for the world makes Her appearance from bodies of devas of good thoughts. 41. punashcha gauri dehaatsaa samud bhutaa yathaa bhavat vadhaaya dushta daityaanaam tathaa shumba nishumba yoh And next, I shall narate to you how this benefactor of good thoughts, appeared again as Gauri, the Devi of Light. She became available for destructing cruel thoughts Shumbha and Nishumbha who crystallised from Conceit and Self- Interest through devaluation of others. 42. raksha naaya cha lokaa-naam devaanaam upakaarini tach chrnushva mayaa khyaatam yathaa vat kathayaami te I shall relate to you, how She reappeared for protecting the world. This is because of an existing pact between Man and Mother Nature. It is a promise of Hope for humanity in times of danger. If there is a collective appeal by good thoughts, Mother Nature displays as divine energy to resolve all problems, whatever they might be. I shall tell it to you as it happened: 78 The Cosmic Connection

Iti shri maarkandey saavarnike manvantare devi mahaatmaye shakraadi stutir-naam chaturtho-adhyaayaha This ends Chapter Four of Devimahatmya in Markandeya Purana Chapter 4 is Sakradi-stuti. At the end of second episode, after the Goddess conquers egoistic demon Mahishasura and his gang of negativity, Indra and optimistic thoughts praise Her. This also end of CD 1 on ìDurga Chhandi Paatî

By Swami Shivananda When the Asura was killed, all the Devas with Brahma as their head, came to Devi, and praised Her with these words: ìYou, the Soul of all the worlds and the all-pervading Power, that sustains all, to that Ambika who s worshipped by sages and gods we offer our prostrations. May She grant blessedness on us all! Her depth cannot be reached even by Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva. To that Chandika, mother of three worlds, we offer our devoted prayers. You are prosperity, in homes of the good, who destroys poverty even in houses of the wicked minds and hearts of the sinners. ìHow do we praise You who is the cause of all the worlds as the ParaPrakriti? You are moksha, and vidya which gives Liberation. You are Rik, Yajus and Sama Vedas. You destroy sorrow. O Devi, You are intelligence, and essence of all sastras, You are Durga who is the boat to cross the ocean of samsara. You are Gauri, Lakshmi, Sarasvati. You are beautiful and dreadful also. ìIndeed, fortunate are those devotees on whom Your grace descends. What else can they want? By mere remembrance of Durga, You give salvation to the devoted. You destroy their fear, give them good intellect and remove their poverty. You are merciful O Devi, promising good jivas a good life in heaven when you destroyed asuras with Your own hands. You thus brought peace to the whole world. Protect us, O protect us from all sides.î Having received praises from Devas and worshipped by them according to sixteen methods, Devi said with a smiling face, ìO Devas, ask Me for any help and I shall give that to you.î The Devas said, ìThere is nothing which Devi has not done already for us. You have killed Mahishasura. But if You would give us a godsend, then may You come and destroy our difficulties whenever we think of You. May whoever prays to You with these hymns prosper in all ways.î And the Devi said, ëSo be ití and vanished from sight. She is born as Gauri to kill Sumbha and Nisumbha, to restore Dharma on earth. 5. The Devas call Devi with a hymn which unreservedly says, ìSalutations to the blessed Mother, the great Devi. Greetings again and again to Prakriti, the auspicious. Greetings. Salutations! Prostrations are offered to that dreadful, but eternal and pure, effulgent Devi. Prostrations to Durga, who is essence of all Doership in everything. She is the most beautiful among the attractive and the most dreadful among the frightful. Prostrations to that Devi who is called Vishnumaya working unseen amidst all creatures. Prostrations, prostrations - again and again salutations to Her who is called Consciousness in all Beings; who manifests as Intellect, as Sleep, as Hunger, as Shadow, as Power, as Thirst, as Forbearance, as Caste, as Shyness, as Peace, as Faith, as Beauty, as Prosperity, as Effort, as Memory, as Mercy, as Content≠ment, as Mother, as Delusion, and who is called among beings as Sustainer of all, for Her let our salutations be. Devi bestow blessings upon us, the helpless Devas.î This ìYa Deviî Hymn also known as Aparajita-stuti or Tantrik Devi Suktam belongs to Chapter 5. At the beginning of the third episode, when the beleaguered gods recall the Goddessís promise to assist them in their time of need, they head to Mount Himavan and there offer a hymn to the Goddess. CD 2 of ìDurga Chhandi Paatî begins. Atha Uttam Charitam Paanchamodhyaayah dhyaanam Meditating: ghantaa shula halaani musale chakram dhanuh saayakam hastaabjair dadhatim ghanaanta vilasch chitaaam shutulya prabhaam gaurideha samud bhavaam trijagataam aadhaara bhutaam maha purvamaatra sarasvatim anubhaje shumbhaadi daityaadinim In Her lotus-like hands are weapons. She carries a bell with the continuous tone of Aum and a vibrating conch. Also there is a trident for concentration and a plow to sow seeds of Wisdom. A pestle of refinement, a discus of revolving Time, a bow of determination and arrows of refined Speech are all Her artillery. Her aura is of the radiant Fall moon. She displays beautiful Light which supports and comforts the three worlds and destroys devolutionary thoughts. To That Devi of supreme

79 80 The Cosmic Connection knowledge, I do prostrate. 1. om rshir uvaacha Om rishi said: 2. puraa shumbha nishumbhaa bhyaam ashuraa bhyaam shachi pateh trailokyam yagna bhaagashcha hrtaa madabalaa shrayaat Once long ago, there were two thoughts ñ Shumbha or Conceit and Nishumbha or Self-devaluation. They robbed heavens of Indra and became masters of the three worlds. 3. taav-eva surya-taam tad-vad adhi-kaaram tatha-inda-vam kaubera- yaam-yam cha chak-raate varu-nasya cha These two assumed dominion over Surya light of wisdom, thought of devotion, and disempowered lord of wealth, Yamaís power of control, and Varunaís power of evenness. 4. taaveva pavanard dhim cha chakratur vahni karma cha tato devaa vinirdhutaa bhrshta raajyaah paraajitaah Under their self-destructive nature, they nullified the Vayuís emancipator authority and Agniís duty to channel controlled thoughts in meditation. They defeated the positive thoughts and ruined their kingdom through disrespect. 5. hrtaadhi kaaraa strida shaas taabhyaam sarve niraakrtaah mahaasuraa bhyaam taam devim samsmar antya paraajitaam Good thoughts were thus banished out of heaven by insulting thought. It was then that they remembered invincible Motherís promise. Mother Nature would always rescue them in times of suffering. They therefore invoked the unconquerable Mother Nature. 6. tayaas maakam varo datto yathaa patsu smrtaa khilaah bhavataam naashayish yaami tat kshanaat paramaapadah She had promised them delivery from misfortune, if they remembered Her and called with devotion. She promised to destroy every cause of distress. 7. iti krtvaa matim devaa hima vantam nageshvaram jagmus tatra tato devim vishnu maayaam pratushtu vuh Remembering this, the band of good thoughts went to Himavat ñ to the King of Himalayas. There they started praising Mother of the Universe who is also the illusive power of Vishnu and pervades all with Consciousness. 8. deva uvaacha The devas said in unison 9. namo dev-yai mahaa-dev-yai shiva-yai sata-tam namah namah pra-krt-yai bhadraa-yai niya-taah prana-taah sma taam We bow to You O Benefectoress who is Mother of infinite creative energy. With a disciplined mind we bow to Your eternal preserving Nature who is both cause and its comforting power. Atha Uttam Charitam 81

10. raudraayai namo nityaayai gauryai dhaatryai namo namah jyotsnaayai chendurpinyai sukhaayai satatam namah Greetings to the energy of Rudra and to beautiful Gauri. We bow to the upholder of this Universe who with devotion gives bliss like the light of dawn and enjoying moon. 11. kalyaanyai pranataam vrdhyai siddhyai kurmo namo namah nairrtyai bhu bhrtaam lakshmyai sarvaanyai te namo namah Salutations to bestower of blessings and to the power of Intelligence. We salute You with every rise and fall of change, perfection and dissolution. 12. durgaayai durga paaraayai saaraayai sarva kaarinyai khyaatyai tathaiva krshnaayai dhumraayai satatam namah We bow to Durga the Goddess who removes difficulties, who is Cause of everything, both unknowable and subtle. You are like darkness of a smoky dusk. 13. atisaum yaati raudraayai nataastasyai namo namah namo jagat pratishthaa yai devyai krtyai namo namah We salute You again and again who is both perfect beauty and fierceness. We salute You as foundation of this continuously revealing and revealed Universe. 14-16. yaa devi sarva bhuteshu vishnu maayeti shabditaa namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah She who is maya of Vishnu in all things and beings, to Her we prostrate again and again. 17-19. yaa devi sarva-bhuteshu chetan-etya-bhi dhiyate namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah She who remains as Awareness in all beings, we bow to Her again and again. 20-22. yaa devi sarva-bhuteshu buddhi-rupena sam-sthitaa namstasyai namastasyai namastasyai namoh namah She who lives as Intelligence in all beings, we bow to Her again and again. 23-25. yaa devi sarva-bhuteshu nidraa rupena sam-sthitaa namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namoh namah She who lingers in all beings as Sleep, we bow to Her again and again. 26-28. yaa devi sarva-buteshu kshu-dhaa rupena samsthitaa namastasyai namstasyai namastasyai namo namah She who resides as Hunger in all beings, we bow to her again and again 29-31. yaa devi sarva bhuteshu chaayaa rupena samsthitaa namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah She who stays as Reflection in all beings to such a One we bow repeatedly. 32-34. yaa devi sarva bhuteshu shakti rupena samsthitaa namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah 82 The Cosmic Connection

She who lives as Power in all beings, to Her we bow repeatedly. 35-37. yaa devi sarva bhuteshu trsh-naa rupena samsthitaa namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah She who remains as Thirst in all beings, to such a one we prostrate repeatedly. 38-40. yaa devi sarva bhuteshu kshaanti rupena samsthitaa namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah She who remains as Forgiveness in all beings, to Her we prostate repeatedly. 41-43. yaa devi sarva bhuteshu jaati rupena samsthitaa namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah She who lives as Genus (birth of all) in all humanity, to such a One we prostrate. 44-46. yaa devi sarva bhuteshu lajjaa rupena samsthitaa namastasyai namastasyai namstasyai namo namah She who resides as Modesty in all beings, to such a One we prostrate repeatedly. 47-49. yaa devi sarva bhuteshu shaanti rupena samstitaa namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah She who lives as Peace in all beings to Her we prostrate repeatedly. 50-52. yaa devi sarva bhuteshu shradhaa rupena samsthitaa namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah She who remains as Faith in all beings, to Her we prostrate repeatedly. 53-55. yaa devi sarva bhuteshu kaanti rupena samsthitaa namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah She who lives as Beauty in all beings to Her we prostrate again and again. 56-58. yaa devi sarva bhuteshu lakshmi rupena samsthitaa namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah She who stays as Prosperity in all beings to Her we prostrate repeatedly. 59-61. yaa devi sarva bhuteshu vri-tti rupena samsthitaa namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah She who remains as Vocation in all beings to Her we prostrate repeatedly. 62-64. yaa devi sarva bhuteshu smriti rupena samsthitaa namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah She who stays as Memory in all beings we honor Her again and again. 65-67. yaa devi sarva bhuteshu dayaa rupena samsthitaa namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah She who lives as Compassion in all beings we honor Her repeatedly. 68-70. yaa devi sarva bhuteshu tushti rupena samsthitaa namastasyai namastasyai namstasyai namo namah She who remain as Contentment in all beings we prostrate to Her repeatedly. 71-73. yaa devi sarva bhuteshu maatra rupena samsthitaa namastasyai namastasyai namastasyai namo namah Atha Uttam Charitam 83

She who lives as Mother in all beings to Her we prostrate to Her repeatedly. 74-76. yaa devi sarva bhuteshu bhraanti rupena samsthitaa namastasyai namastasyai namstasyai namo namah She who stays as Confusional delusion in all beings to Her we bow. 77. indriyaa-naama-dhish-thaatri bhutaa-naam chaki-leshu yaa bhuteshu satatam tasyai vyaapti-devyai namo namah She who presides over all senses and elements, and who Pervades all beings always, to such a One we prostrate. 78-80. chit-rupena yaa krshna-metad vyaapya sthitaa jagat namastasyai namastasyai namstasyai namo namah She who pervades Universe as Consciousness of the perceivable Universe to such a One we prostrate repeatedly. 81. stuta suraih purva-ma-bhishta sam-shra-yaat tathaa surendrena dineshu sevitaa karotu saa nah shubha hetur ishvari shubh-aani bhad-raanaya-bhi hantu chaapa-dah She is Root of all that is Good. She was adored thus in previous verses of praise by the good with Indra - Lord of pure thoughts. They wanted wisdom by surrendering ego, but remained oppressed by self-destructive thoughts. They finally sought help from, Her who they remembered would dispel all fears. 82. yaa saam-pratam chod-dhata daitya taapi-tair asmaa-bhi rishaa cha surair namas-yate yaa cha smrtaa tat kshanam-eva hanti nah sarvaa-pado bhakti vin-amra -bhih Devas claimed being harassed by their personal arrogant and self-destructive thoughts. In devotion, they ask for help to transcend these. We now bow to Mother for incremental thoughts of discrimination. They seek Her prompting for promoting evolution in sincere aspiring human beings. At each stage of seeking, they faced extreme trials of thoughts of narrow vision. They therefore seek support to increase evenness (sattva) to fight the forces of ignorant thoughts and self-serving thoughts reborn in devas. 83. rishir uvaacha The rishi said 84. evam stavaadi yuktaanaam tatra paarvati snaatum abhyaayayau toye jaahnavyaa nrpa nandana While devas were busy in adoration of Mother Nature, Parvati arrived to bathe in the waters of . 85. saabra vittaan suraan subhrur bhavadbhih stuyate tra kaa sharira koshatash chaasyaah samud bhutaa bravichchivaa She with a lovely forehead and expansive vision asked of devas, ìWhose praises 84 The Cosmic Connection

do you singî? Then from within Her body emitted another body which enveloped them all. She became One with each of them, removing all sense of separateness. 86. stotram mamaitat kriyate shunmbha daitya niraakrtaih devaih sametaih samare nishumbena paraajitaih ìThis hymn is addressed to Me?î She asked. Devas then told Her that two great thoughts - Conceited Shumbha and Self-devaluated Nishumba sought separateness, and posed danger to their ambitions for Oneness. They sought destruction of Shumbha and Nishumbha. 87. sharira koshaadyat tasyaah paarvatyaa nih shrt aambikaa kaushitkiti samasteshu tato lokeshu giyate Because Ambika, Motherof the Universe emerged from Parvatiís or Mother Natureís physical body, She is called Kaushiki or One emerging from within the three worlds. 88. tasyaam vinir gataayaam tu krshnaa bhutsaapi paarvati kaaliketi samaa khyaataa himaachala krtaa shrayaa After Kaushiki She who is Parvati - Mother Nature, became shadowy. In this Form, She is called Kaalika, for She who removes darkness and is stationed in the highest mountains as natural phenomenon. 89. tato mbikaam param rupam bibhraanaam sumano haram dadarsha chando mundash cha bhrtyau shumbha nishumbhayoh It was then that two servants of Shumbha-Nishumbha arrived. One was Chanda with passionate wants and Munda who was always angry. They saw the beautiful form of Mother Nature - Parvati. 90. taabhyaam shumbhaaya chaa khyaataa ativa sumano haraa kaapyaaste stri mahaaraaja bhaasayanti himaachalam The two servants Want and Anger returned to tell Conceited Shumbha they saw a woman of incomparable beauty lending Her heavenly radiance to the Himalayan mountains. 91. naiva taa-drk kva-chid-rupam drsh-tam kena-chid-utta-mam gnaaya-taam kaapya-sau devi grhya-taam chaasur-eshvara Chanda [Desire] and Munda [Anger] told their master Shumbha [Conceit], what they saw. The servants urged Shumbha and Nishumbha to own Her. 92. stri ratna-mati chaar-vangi dyota-yaanti disha-stvishaa saa tu tish-thati dait-yendra taam bhavaan drashtu marhati They described Her as gem among women, of exquisite form and brilliant splendor who illumines everything in all quarters. She is there. You should see Her. 93. yaani ratnaani manayo gajaa shvaadini vai prabho trailokye tu samastaani saampratam bhaani te grhe Atha Uttam Charitam 85

As Lord of three worlds, you have the best of jewels, gems, elephants and horses. 94. airaavatah samaanito gaja ratnam puran daraat paari jaata tarush chaayam tathai voch chaih shravaa hayah Of all elephants you control Indraís jewel Airaavata. Of trees, you posses Parijaata the Tree-of-Life. Of all horses you own Horse-of-Wisdom, Ucchaihshravas. You also have Love from realms of the Pure. 95. vimaanam hamsa samyuktam etat tish thati te-ngane ratna bhuta mihaani tam yadaasid vedhaso bhutam Here stands in your courtyard the chariot (Life Force) yoked to Swans-of-Union through Breath-Control. This is the best of all chariots once owned by Brahma, the Lord of Creation. 96. nidhiresha mahaapadmaah samaanito dhanesh varaat kinjal kinim dadau chaabdhir maalaa mamlaa napan kajaam Of nine treasures offered by Kubera, you chose Mahaapadma the Lotus-of- Peace, and ocean gave you Maha-maala, the Garland-of-Lotus that never loses luster. 97. chatram te vaarunam gehe kaan-chana-sraavi tish-thati tathaa-yam syanda-navaro yah puraa-shit prajaa-pateh In your home stands the Umbrella-of-Varuna which stays in Equilibrium under all conditions. You also have the chariot belonging Prajaapati the Father-of- Beings. 98. mrtyorut kraantidaa naama shakti rishaa tvayaa hrtaa paashah salila raajasya bhraatustava parigrahe From Death you took his energy ëMoving Beyondí. Also your brother Self- Deprecation, - Nishumbha, owns Wavering and Change. 99. nishumbhas yaabdhi jatashcha samastaa ratna jaatayah vahnirapi dadau tubhyam agni shauche cha vaasaasi Nishumba also has many gems from the sea. Fire, himself presented you with two yagna-purified garments. 100. evam daityendra ratnaani samastaan yaahr taani te striratna mesha kalyaani tvayaa kasmaanna grhyate Oh Lord of thought, you control all the gems of excellence. Why then will you not seize this beautiful woman of happiness for your household? 101. rishir uvaacha The rishi said: 102. nishamyeti vachah shumbhah sa tadaa chanda mundayoh peshayaam aasa sugrivam dutam devyaa mahaasuram On hearing words of Passion and Anger, conceited Shumba sent Sugriva of friendly bearing as a messenger to Mother Nature. 86 The Cosmic Connection

103. iti cheti cha vak-tavyaa saa gatvaa vacha-naan mama yathaa chaa-bhyeti sam-pritya tathaa kaar-yam tvayaa laghu He commanded, ìGo and tell Her thus, with friendly words from me. Behave charmingly. She surely will come at once.î 104. sa tatra gatvaa yatraaste shailod deshe ti shobhane saa devi taam tatah praaha shlak shnam madhurayaa giraa Sugriva went to the beautiful spot in the mountains where Parvati was seated. He spoke to Her in fine flattering words. 105. duta uvaacha The messenger said: 106. devi daity eshvarah shumbha trailokye parameshvarah Duto ham preshita stena tvat sakaa shami haagatah Oh Devi, Lord Conceit - Shumbha enjoys the best of three worlds. I have been sent as an ambassador to come to You, the jewel among women, worthy of serving him alone. 107. avyaahataa jnah sarvaasu yah sadaa deva yonishu nir jitaakhila daityaa-rih sa yadaaha shrnushva tat All devas are overthrown by Shumbha and his brother Nishumbha. None dare disobey him. He sends You a message. 108. mama trilokyam akhilam mama devaa vashaa nigaah yagna bhaagaanaham sarvaanu paashnaami prthak prthak ìThe three worlds are under their authority,î said his Messenger Sugriva. They enjoy contributions of every one ñ even gods obey them. They share results of all their actions and sacrifices.î 109. trai-lokye vara-rat-naani mama vashyaan yashe-shatah tathaiva gaja-ratnam cha hrtvaa devendra vaa-hanam ìAll precious gems of three worlds are already under their authority. Also they control the best among elephants and Airavata who once belonged to lord of Pure, Indra is now theirs.î 110. kshiro damathanod bhutam ashvaratnam mamaama raih uchchaih shravasa samjnam tatpranipatya samarpitam ìThe jewel steed of wisdom gained from churning the ocean (meditation) since the beginning of creation, the gods themselves offered it to the two brothers, Shumbha and Nishumbha.î 111. yaani chanyaani deveshu gandarveshu rageshu cha ratna bhutaani bhutaani taani mayyeva shobhane ìOh beautiful woman, whatever other precious possessions in existence that once existed and whatever objects belonging to heavenly beings ñ all are with the two brothersî Atha Uttam Charitam 87

112. striratna bhutaam tvaam devi loke manyaamahe vayam saa tvamas maanupaa gachcha yato ratna bhujo vayam ìWe look on You as the jewel of womankind in this world. We come here to claim you for the enjoyers all worldly gems.î 113. maam vaa mamaa nujam vaapi nishumbha muru vikramam bhaja tvam chanchalaa paangi ratna bhutaasi vai yatah ìOh Lady with piercing gaze, marry our master, Shumbha or his younger brother Nishumbha, who is also brave. Come to one of them, because you are the essence of all jewels.î 114. param aishvaryam atulam praapsyase mat parigrahaat etad budhyaa samaalochya matpari grahataam vraja ìWealth beyond compare You will get by marrying Shumbha or Nishumbha. Great glory You will achieve. Think this over and become their wife.î 115. rishir uvaacha The rishi said: 116. ityuktaa saa tadaa devi gambhir aantah smitaah jagau durga bhagavati bhadraa yayedam dhaaryate jagat Then Durga, the Empress who removes all difficulties, thoughtfully became majestically tranquil and smilingly gave Her reply. 117. devi-uvaacha The devi said: 118. satya-muktam tvayaa naatra mithyaa kin-chit-tva-yodi-tam trai-lokyaa-dhi-patih shumbho nishum-bhash-chaapi-taad-dr-shah ìYou have spoken the truth - nothing false was uttered by you. Both Shumbha and Nishumbha are indeed the sovereigns of the three worlds.î 119. kim tvatra yat prati gnyaatam mithyaa tat kriyate katham sruyataam alpa budhitvaat pratignaa yaa krtaa puraa ìBut, because I am of small intellect, I have already made a promise that cannot be falsified now. Hear what promise I have made through My own foolishness.î 120. yo maam jayati sangraame yo me darpam vyapohati yo me prati balo loke sa me bhartaa bhavishyati ìHe who conquers Me in battle, whoever removes My pride and who sees My universal force is My match in strength. He alone shall be My husband.î 121. tadaa gachchatu shumbho-tra nishumbho vaa mahasurah maam jitvaa kim chirenaatra paanim grhnaatu me laghu ìSo then let Shumbha or Nishumbha come here. Let them conquer Me. Then let either of these two take My hand in marriage...why delay any further?î 122. duta uvaacha The messenger said: 88 The Cosmic Connection

123. avalip taasi maivam tvam devi bruhi mamaagratah trailokye kah pumaam stishthe dagre shumbha nishumbhayoh ìDevi you are haughty. Talk not so, to me. Which man in the three worlds can challenge Shumbha (Conceit) or Nishumbha (Self- Devaluation)?î 124. anyeshaam api daityaanaam sarve deva na vai yudhi tishthanti sammukhe devi kim punah stri tvamekikaa ìEven the whole army of gods could not withstand the Shumbha and Nishumbha in battle. How will You, a single woman stand against conceited Shumbha and self-devaluating, Nishumbha?î 125. indraadyaah sakalaa devaas tasthurye shaam na samyuge shum bhaad-naam katham teshaam stri prayaasyasi sammukham ìIndra, the Lord of pure thoughts could not stand up to the two self-destructive thoughts in battle. How will You, a woman face them in battle?î 126. saa tvam gachcha mayaivoktaa paarshvam shumbha nishumbhayoh keshaa karshana nirdhuta gauravaa maa ganishyasi ìTherefore, I urge You to go to Shumbha and Nishumbha. Let it not this be a cause for the loss of your dignity when I drag You to them by Your hair.î 127. devi uvaacha The devi said: 128. evametad bali shumbho nishumbhash chaati viryavaan kim karomi pratignaa me yadana lochitaa puraa ìWhat you say is correct. Conceit and Self-Devaluation are both brave and strong warriors. But what can I do? This promise, I made a longtime ago, and it stands in My way.î 129. sa tvam gachcha mayoktam te yad etat sarva maadrtah tadaa chakshvaasur endraaya sa cha yuktam karotu tat ìNow you go back and tell the Lords of Conceit and Self-Devaluation all this that I have said. Let him or both do whatever they consider properî. Iti shri markandey purane saavarnike manvantare devimahaatmye devyaa drita samvaado naam panchamo adhyaayaha Here ends the fifth chapter called Deviís conversation with Messenger, in Devi Mahatmyam in Markandeya Puraana during the period of the Manu saavarni.

Kali is understood to represent the darker transformative qualites of Deviís Shakti. Kaliís emergence is recorded in the third story of the Devi Mahatmya. She emerges from Deviís third eye as a burst of psychic energy. Kali overpowers and beheads Chanda and Munda, and when she delivers their severed heads to Devi. She is ìknightedî Chamunda. Atha Uttam Charitam 89

During a fierce battle in which the great goddess displays her omnipotence by defeating powerful demons who terrify devas. She also faces the fierce Raktabija (chapter 8). Every drop of blood Raktabija sheds transforms into another demon as it touches Earth. A unique strategy had to be devised to overthrow him. A fiery burst of energy emerging from Deviís third eye took the dark emaciated form of goddess Kali. With her huge mouth and enormous tongue she ferociously laps up Raktabijaís blood, thus preventing an uprising by further demons. The story continues in which Devi, Kali and the group of Matrikas [mothers] destroy demonic brothers Shumbha (chapter 10) and Nishumbha (chapter 9). In the final battle against Shumbha, Devi absorbs Kali and the matrikas . She now stands alone for the final battle.

By Swami Shivananda The sage said: Just then Parvati was coming there for Her daily bath in the . She saw the Devas there offering their prayers and asked them to whom they were praying with such grief and anxiety. When She was talking like this, there instantly came out of Her body a marvelous figure of inexpressible splendor, and told Parvati thus: ìThese Devas have been defeated by Sumbha and Nisumbha. They are praying to Me for My help. I am Durga, the power of this world.î As She came out of the (body) of Parvati, Shewas called ëKaushikií. The Devas were glad to see the glorious Mahatmya coming to their safety and all saluted Her with bowed heads. ìGo ye all, O Devas, I shall see to the matter,î said the glorious Mother. The gods returned from the place and the great Devi was sitting on a tree in the Himavat Mountains. Just then there came by chance, Chanda and Munda, the bodyguards of Sumbha and Nisumbha, loitering in the Himalayan forests. They saw the beautiful Devi sitting on a tree and were enchanted by Her glamour of youth. They immediately ran to their lord Sumbha and told thus, ìO Lord! There is a wonderful thing in the Himalayas. She is a beautiful woman when compared with all your queens. She is real wealth. She is brightening all the Himalayas. She is the gem among all heavenly women. O king of Rakshasas! You should at once see Her in person.î The sage said: Hearing these words of Chanda and Munda, Sumbha sent his ambassador Sugriva to entice the heavenly Durga to become the queen of Sumbha. Sugriva made haste towards the home of that celestial woman in the Himalayas with great excitement and anxiety and seeing Her sporting in the Himalayan woods addressed Her thus in sweet words, ìO Devi! Sumbha, the Lord of the asuras, is the Lord of the three worlds. I am his ambassador sent by him to you. He has sent to you this message. Please come to me. You may marry either myself or my brother Nisumbha, who is equally wealthy and powerful. You will then arrive at the lordship of all these worlds. Think over and tell me quickly.í ì The sage said: Hearing these words of Sugriva, the Universal Mother, the 90 The Cosmic Connection support of all worlds, the blessed Divine Devi, told the ambassador in these curt and deep-meaning words with a slight smile: ìYes, You are telling the truth. There is no doubt in this. Sumbha is the lord of the three worlds and Nisumbha is equal to him. But what to do; Through ignorance I have taken a vow, how can I override it? Whoever conquers Me in battle, whoever subdues My pride, whoever is a match for me in power, he should become my husband.î ìO silly young woman, You are mistaken. Who, in all these worlds, is bold enough to face the terrible Sumbha or Nisumbha?î Devi said, ìI know, I agree that Sumbha and Nisumbha are powerful. But I cannot help it. I have taken an unwise vow long ago. Please go back and tell them the fact. Let them do what they like.î 6. Atha Shashtho Dhyaa-Yah

dhyaanam Meditating: 1. rishir-uvaacha The rishi said: 2. ityaa karnya vacho devyaah sa duto marsha puritah samaachashta samaa gamya daitya raaja-ya vistaraat Having heard devi speak, Sugriva the messenger became angry and returned to conceited Shumbha, to give him a report of the discussion. 3. tasya dutasya tadvaakyam aakarnya asuraraat tatah sakrodhah praaha daityaa naam adhipam dhumralochanam Hearing the report from the messenger, Shumbha became indignantly angry and called on Dhumralochana who has vague view of matters that are spiritual. He was therefore given the name of ësinful eyesí. 4. he dhumralochanaashu tvam svasainya parivaaritah taamaanaya balaad dushtaam keshaa karshana vihvalaam O Dhumralochana go with your troops and bring here this haughty depraved shrew. Bring Her. Drag Her here by Her hair. 5. tatparitraana dah kashchid yadi vitishthate parah sa hantavyo-maro vaapi yaksho gandharva eva vaa If anyone tries to save Her, he is to be instantly killed, be he deva, yaksha, gandharva or any other celestial being. 6. rishir-uvaacha The rishi said: 7. tena gnyaptas tatah shighram sa daityo dhumralochanah vrtah shashtyaa sahasraanaam asuraanaam drutam yayau Commanded thus by Conceited Shumbha, Immoral Dhumralochana with sinful eyes, left quickly with his army of sixty thousand. 8. sa drshtvaa taam tato devim tuhinaachala sam sthitaam jagaad ochchaih prayaahiti mulam shumbha nishumbhayoh On seeing Devi stationed on the snowy mountain, he ordered Her to go with him to Shumbha and Nishumbha. 9. na chet prityaadya bhavati madbhartaa ram upaishyati tato balaan nayaa myesha keshaa karshana vihvalaam

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He told Her if She refused to go to them willingly, he would take Her by force. He threatened to drag Her to them by Her hair. 10. devi uvaacha The Devi said: 11. daity eshvarena prahito balavaan balasam vrtah balaan nayasi maamevam tatah kim te karomyaham ìYou have decidedly been sent here by the mighty Kings Shumbha and Nishumbha. You Dhumralochana are also a mighty Warrior, as is your Army. If you take Me by force, then what can I do?î 12. rishir-uvaacha The rishi said: 13. ityuktah so bhyadhaa vataam asuro dhumralochanah hum kaare naiva tam bhasma saa chakaar aambikaaa tatah Hearing this response from devi, wicked eyed Dhumralochana rushed at Her. Ambika, remover of difficulties, reduced him to ashes by a mere heave of Her ìhumî. 14. atha kruddham mahaasainyam asuraanaam tath aambikaa vavarsha saaya kaistiksh nais tathaa shakti parashva dhaih Thought army became enraged and showered Her with weapons. Ambika, Mother of Universe reponded also. 15. tato dhutasatah kopaat krtvaa naadam subhaira vam papaataa surasenaa yaam simho devyaah svavaahanah Then the lion on which She sat shook, his mane in anger. With a roar, he fell on the army of thoughts. 16. kaamsh chit karaprahaa rena daityaa naasyena chaaparaan aakramya chaadhaare naanyaan sa jaghaana mahaa suraan Some were felled with blows of the lionís striking paws. Others were crushed in his jaws. Still others were trampled on with his hind legs and many died of their wounds. 17. keshaam chitpaata yaamaasa nakhaih koshtaani kesari tathaa tal prahaarena shiraamsi krtvaan prthak Some thoughts the lion tore open with his claws. He severed their heads with a blow. 18. vichinna baahu shirasah krtaastena tathaapare papau cha rudhiram koshthaa danyeshaam dhuta kesarah Shaking of his bushy mane resulted in many thoughts having their arms and heads severed. Other thoughts had stomachs ripped open. The lion then drank their blood. 19. kshanena tadbalam sarvam kshayam nitam maha atmanaa tena kesarinaa devyaa vaahane naati kopinaa Atha Shashtho Dhyaa-Yah 93

In moments, the whole thought army was destroyed by the lion She rode on. 20. shrutvaa tamasuram devyaa nihatam dhumralochana balam cha kshayitam devi kesarinaa tatah When Shumbha heard the army was slain, he was enraged. 21. chupoka daityaa dhipatih shumbhah pras phuritaa dharah aajnaa payaa maasa cha tau chanda mundau maha surau His lower lip quivered in rage and he sent for two new thought generals: Chanda of passion and Munda of anger. 22. he chanda he munda balair bahubhih parivari tau tatra gach chata gatvaa cha saa samaaniya taam laghu Oh Chanda with desire thoughts and angry Munda go to Her with larger forces and bring Her quickly to me, dragging Her by Her hair or by restraining Her. 23. keshesh vaak rshya baddhvaa vaa yadi vah samshayo yudhi tadaasheshaa yudaih sarvair asurair vinihanya taam But if you have reservations about doing that, then fight Her with all the army at your disposal and wound Her. 24. tasyaam hataayaam dushtaayaam simhe cha vini paatite shighramaa gamyataam baddhvaa grhitvaa taamath aambikaam Once the shrew is wounded and Her lion is struck down, seize and bind Ambika and bring Her to me. Iti shri markadeya purane saavarnike manvantare devi-mahaatmaye dhumralochan vadho naama adhyaa yaha This brings to end Chapter Six which applies to the slaying of Dhumralochana of Sinful-Eyes.

By Swami Shivananda The sage said: Hearing these words, Sugriva the messenger was filled with rage. He came to the Rakshasa [demon] king and told everything with great exaggeration. Asura king Shumbha started smoldering with anger. He could not control it. He called his commander Dhumralochana and said, ìO Dhumralochana, go immediately to that wretched woman and drag Her to me by the hair. Bring her by force at my feet. If there is anybody, whether Gandharva, Deva, or Yaksha who tries to protect Her, kill them instantaneously.î With these orders of Sumbha, the commander of the asura army went to the Himalayas with sixty thousand well-armed forces for protection. He saw Devi in the Himalayan mountains and said, ìStart at once to reach the feet of Sumbha and Nisumbha. If you refuse to come, I shall drag you by your hair.î And Devi said, ìIf you are commander of this asura armies, and are sent by your King to drag me by force, then what can I do?î 94 The Cosmic Connection

Hearing these words the commander Dhumralochana, ran towards Her in great fury. Devi produced a sound of ìHUMî from inside Her and Dhumralochana was reduced to ashes. She poured a rain of arrows on the asura army, and Her lion fell on them like fire on a dry forest. Heads of the asuras were cut off with axes. There was no end to the havoc caused on the asuras by Her lion. He drank the blood of asuras, who all were lying dead on the ground. In the end there was not a single asura left. News reached the ears of king Sumbha and his anger got worse. He began biting his lips and called for his faith≠ful colleagues, Chanda and Munda. ìO Chanda! O Munda! Go there at once! Collect a large army. Bring her to me. Do not delay much. Quick - drag her by the hair, or tie her with ropes, or if not possible at least kill her in battle. Let her be destroyed in case there is no other way out. Kill that lion which is so ferocious. Then tie her and bring her to me. Work skillfully.î 7. Aatha Saptamo-Dhyaayaha

Kali is understood to represent the darker transformative qualites of Mother Natureís power or Shakti. Kaliís emergence is recorded first in the third story of Devi Mahatmyam. Kali emerges from Deviís third eye as a burst of psychic energy. All tales are allegories of outer and inner experiences of human existence, symbolized by fierce battles the all-powerful Devi wages against throngs of demonic thought foes. Her enemies are human impulses arising from pursuit of power, possessions and pleasure, and from illusions of self-importance. Like the battlefield of Devi Mahatmyamís killing grounds represent a field of human consciousness. The Devi, personified as one supreme goddess inclusive of many goddesses, confronts demons of ego and dispels our mistaken idea of whom we are. Strangely enough it is She who creates these misunderstandings firstly. Then She alone awakens us to our true being. 1. aum rishir uvaacha Aum the rishi said: 2. aajnaap taaste tato daityaash chanda munda puro gamaah charuranga balopetaa yayurabhyu dyataa yudhaah Then, based on the commands received from Conceited Shumbha, passionate Chanda and angry Munda set out in four army divisions with armor and weapons. 3. dadrshuste tato devimishad dhaasaam vyava sthitaam Simhasyo pari shailendra shrnge mahati kaan chane There they saw smiling Matangi, an Expression of Motherhood, seated on Her lion on the clear mountains. 4. te drshtvaa taam samaadaatu mudyamam chakrurud yataah aakrshta chaapaa sidharaas tathaanye tat samipagaah On seeing Her, some thoughts became agitated and readied to capture Her. Other thoughts went closer with bows and arrows and swords drawn, ready to fight. 5. tatah kopam chakaaroch chair ambikaa taanarin prati kopena chaasya vadanam mashi varnama bhuta-aa Ambika Mother of the Universe, became angry with the army of thoughts and Her face turned dark with rage. 6. bhrukuti kutilaat tasyaa lalaata phalakaad drutam kali karaala vadanaa vanish krantaa sipaasini

95 96 The Cosmic Connection

Her eyebrows scowled and out of Her forehead issued forth the horrific Kali Remover of Darkness, armed with net and sword. 7. vichitra khatvaanga dharaa naramaalaa vibhushanaa dvipicharma paridhaanaa shushkamaam saati bhairavaa Covered in a tigerís skin garment, and garlanded with a string of human skulls, Her flesh seemed withered. She had the appearance of a fierce skeleton. She carried in Her hands various weapons of Awareness. 8. ativistaara vadanaa jihvaa lalana bhishanaa nimagnaa rakta nayanaa naadaa purita dinmukhaa Her widely gaping mouth seemed large, and Her tongue rolled out like a sword, causing onlookers to fear. Her emaciated fiery eyes were sunken. She filled the sky with a ëHumí and roared like Natureís destructive phenomenon. 9. saa vegenaa bhipatitaa ghaatayanti mahaasuraan sainye tatra suraarinaam abhaksha yata tadbalam Kali, remover of darkness hastily fell on armies of thoughts and hastily devoured them before a drop of their blood fell to the ground. 10. paarshni graah aankusha graahi yodha ghataa samanvitaan samaadayaika hastena mukhe chikshepa vaaranaan She snatched in Her embrace mighty elephants and beasts and devoured them mercilessly, with their drivers, riders and rear men. 11. tathaiva yodham turagai ratham saarathinaa saha nikshipya vaktre dashanaish charva yantyati bhairavam She lifted entire cavalries of thoughts, inclusive of horses, chariots, commanders, and drivers... And She ground them most frightfully with Her teeth. 12. ekam jagraaha kesheshu grivaayaa matha chaaparam paadenaa-kramya chaivaanyam urasaanyama pothayat She seized some thoughts by their hair and others by their necks. She crushed other thoughts with Her foot and others with a stroke to their chest. 13. tair muktaani cha shashtraani mahaastraani tathaa suraih mukhena jagraaha rushaa dashanair mathitaanyapi She caught the hurling weapons in Her open mouth and crushed them also. 14. balinaam tad balam sarvam asuraanaam dura atmanaam mamardaa bhakshaayach chaanyaan anyaamsh chaataa dayattathaa She trampled every mighty negative thought in the army and devoured every evil thought. Others She beat off fiercely. 15. asinaa nihitaah kechit kechit khatvaanga taaditaah jagmur vinaasham asuraa dantaa graabhi hataastathaa Some thoughts became victims of Her sword. Others were thrashed with weapons of Awareness that She carries in Her hands, while others were felled with Her powerful teeth. Aatha Saptamo-Dhyaayaha 97

16. kshanena tad balam sarvam asuraanaam nipaatitam drshtvaa chando bhidudraava taam kaalimati bhishanaam On seeing the army of thoughts destroyed within moments, the bold passionate Chanda, rushed forward to kill the horrific Kali, the remover of darkness. 17. shara varshair mahaa bhimair bhimaakshim taam mahaasurah Chaadayaa maasa chakraish cha mundah kshiptaih sahasrasha While passionate Chanda attacked Her with arrows, angry Munda hurled thousands of disks at the dark Mother of natural phenomenon and disasters. 18. taani chakraanya nekaani vishamaa naani tanmukham babhurya thaarka bimbaani subahuni ghanodaram Thought disks that disappeared into Her mouth glowed like halos of light energy getting absorbed in many clouds. 19. tato jahaasaati rushaa bhimam bhairava naadini kaali karaala vakraantar durdarsha dashanoj jvalaa Then, Kali who was roaring fearfully, with Her teeth gleaming, laughed in abandoned fury. 20. utthaaya cha mahaasimham devi chanda madhaavata grhitvaa chasya kesheshu shirastenaa sinaach chinat Mounting Her lion, Kali rushed towards passionate Chanda. She seized him by his hair and severed his head from the body. 21. atha mundo bhya dhaavataam drshtvaa chandam nipaatitam tama pyapaatayad bhumau saa khadgaabhi hatam rushaa Seeing the death of passionate Chanda, angry Munda rushed at Her. She felled him also with one strike of Her sword. 22. hata shesham tatah sainyam drshtvaa chandam nipaatitam mundam cha sumahaa viryam disho bheje bhayaaturam Seeing both Chanda and Munda destroyed, the remaining army of thoughts panicked and ran in all directions. 23. shirash chandasya kaali cha grhitvaa mundam evacha praaha prachan daattahaasa mishram abhyetya chandikaam Kali then approached Chhandika, the Mother who destroys thought, holding heads of Chanda and Munda. She laughed with abandon and said: 24. mayaa tavaatropa hrtau chanda mundau mahaa pashu Yuddha yagne svayam shumbham nishumbham cha hanishyasi ìHere I have brought to You heads of two great beasts Chanda and Munda from the Battle of Sacrifices. You must now kill thought beasts Shumbha, and Nishumbha.î 25. rishir uvacha The rishi said: 98 The Cosmic Connection

26. taavaa nitau tato drshtvaa chanda mundau mahaasurau uvaacha kaalim kalyaani lalitam chandikaa vachah Seeing theads of Chanda and Munda, Chhandika who is Mother of well-being spoke sweetly to Kali the remover of darkness: 27. yasmach chandam cha mundam cha grhitvaa tvam upaagataa chaamundeti tato loke khyaataa devi bhavishyasi ìBecause you have brought Me these two heads of Chanda and Munda, You will be known in all the worlds as Chamundi, the slayer of Passion and Anger.î iti shri markandeya purane saavarnike manvantare devi mahaatmaye chandamundo naam saptamo-dhyaayaha And here ends Chapter Seven of Chhandi about slaying of Chanda and Munda ñ lustful Want and Anger.

By Swami Shivananda Under the command of the Asura king, the asura army led by the able Chanda and Munda, marched with raised arms towards the Himavan. There they saw there Ambika Devi riding on a lion and smiling. They tried to catch Her in every way without success. They began usimg bows, disks and swords, and Ambika got angry. Her face turned black like ink. From Her forehead emerged a feminine form of appalling ferocity with weapons in all Her hands. She was Kali with a fearful face, with a garland of skulls around Her neck. She created fear in the hearts of Asuras. She filled space. Her face covered the skies. Fire blazed from Her mouth. Her eyes were bloody and She roared. Asuras began to tremble. She fell on them and destroyed them in thousands. She crushed Rakshasas, commanders of the army, proud charioteer and Asuras of high status. She sportfully swallowed animals and weapons alike in serenity. Seeing this terrible scene, Chanda urgently ran towards Kali and faced Her with thousands of disks, axs, swords, nooses, and tridents. Then Munda also came running with a shower of arrows on all sides of Her. Kali, thundered threateningly with Her awesome face and fiery tongue. She rushed towards Chanda, caught him by his hair and cut off his head with Her sword. Then Munda came running. She rolled him on the ground and cut off his head also. Seeing both Chanda and Munda lying dead the army took to its heels and ran in all directions. Kali now took heads of Chanda and Munda and said to Durga, ìI bring You these two animals, Chanda and Munda, offered as sacrifice of battle. You must now kill Sumbha and Nisumbha.î Seeing the heads of Chanda and Munda Ambika or Durga blessed Kali thus: ìSince you have brought the heads of Chanda and Munda, you will be renowned in the world as Chamundi.î Commentary on Ambika In Chhandi Ambika or Durga leads the eight matrikas or mothers in battle Aatha Saptamo-Dhyaayaha 99 against the demon Raktabija. They are Narashmi, Vaishnavi, Kumari, Maheshvari, Brahmi, Varahi, Aindri, Chamundi or Kali and finally Ambika ñ Nine Mothers in all. Mahavidyas are Great Wisdoms that are aspects of Mother Worship in Hinduism. Ten Mahavidyas are Wisdom Goddesses. Their characteristics range from ravishingly feminine divinity, to increasingly horrific goddesses The word ëmahavidyaí comes from roots maha (great) and vidya (revelation, expression, knowledge, wisdom). In tantric tradition, these are identified as The Ten Vidyas and they are: Kali or Shyaamaa is the goddess of tantra. The Universe came into being by Her Will. She is therefore in all devis. To fulfill desires, She assumes many forms. Contradictory in name, form and emotion She is fearful and yet compassionate. All positive and negative thoughts meet in this Anandmayee, giver of bliss in meditation. Taaraa is also of dual character. She carries one to the end shores of Manís existence. She is adored especially by Buddhists. She is young to look at and wears skulls and skins. Yet, Her complexion is effulgent with Her tongue slightly protruding. She represents the word Aum not as sound but as creative vibration and light clarifying consciousness. Shodashi is also called Tripurari who takes the form of a sixteen year old Mother. She takes powers of Shiva and is called Sundari-Kamala. She represents Light. Bhuvaneshvari feeds the three worlds from breasts that are surcharged with . She assures humanity. She grants seekers with boons for efforts made in their search for Her. As Bhuvanshvarii-Dhumavati She represents Space both for obvious and unmanifest creation. Bhairavi is form of benign giver of Knowledge to a seeker who has persisted in sadhana. Bhairavi Bagala is for Energy in both movement and stillness. Chinnamastaa looks sixteen and stays in the navel chakra. Contradictory in appearance and nature, She is naked and in sexual embrace with Kama and , the physical-spiritual Love-couple. She is covered in skulls and Her tongue is protruding. She is effulgent like the sun. In Her hand She carries Her own head and is drinking the blood from Her own heart. This represents spiritual Love ecstasy. Prema needs no thought or thinking. She is the main devi of meditation when life force is withdrawn from the object of seeing. She represents perception. Dhumaavati is pale, stern, and tall. She is toothless and wears a widowís garb. She rides a chariot pulled by a crow. She is hungry, thirsty, mean, and petulant. She is identified with poverty, frustration, despair and misfortune. However, Her eyes are compassionate and hands promise help. She represents the void when life force dissociates itself from expression. Bagalaa is yellow. She is seated on a throne on an expanse of water of Awareness. She arises from silence or void in the word aum. When She speaks, everything else becomes still. She gives enlightenment to speech. 100 The Cosmic Connection

Maatangi represents Knowledge and displays as aum in thought and speech. She is seated on a bejeweled throne. She is mantrini for the power that allows articulation and vocalisation of knowledge. She gives meaning to the teachings of the guru. Kamalaa has a golden complexion and is Ambika, Mother-of-Welfare and Empress of the Universe. She promises nectar of benefits from of tapasya and is bliss born of perception of Reality after fulfilling oneself with pleasures of mortal existence. She is the image of perfect beauty and happiness coming from natural divine grace. Each of these Devis is assigned a ìyantraî or triangles of nine continents of earth in a ìchakraî or circle diagram which represents the orb of the earth. The combined diagram of yantra and chakra is called ìShri-Chakraî or Shiva Shakti. Shakti is ìsabda Brahmanî or Aum in ten sound-manifestations or antar-dhvani starting as a ëhumí in the muladhara chakra and changing to ëshamí, or chit or Consciousness. Birth of Mahavidyas Once during a game of dice, things got out of hand between Shiva and Parvati. Shiva lost the game, and Parvati asked for the crescent moon which adorns his hair as payment. When he refused, she got angry. What had started in jest turned into a serious matter with an incensed Shiva threatening to walk out on Parvati. No amount of coaxing or cajoling by Parvati could reverse matters. Left with no choice, Parvati multiplied herself into ten different forms for each of the ten directions. Thus, however hard her beloved Shiva might try to escape from Parvati, he would find her standing as a keeper, guarding all escape routes. Each of the Deviís revealed forms made Shiva realize essential truths. These truths made him aware of the eternal nature of their common love. Most significantly they settled permanently for always in the canon of Indian thought, the Goddessís superiority over her male counterpart. Not that Shiva in any way felt belittled by this awareness, only spiritually awakened. This is true as much for this Great Lord as for ordinary mortals. Befittingly, they are referred to as the Great Goddesses of Wisdom, known in as the Mahavidyas. Indeed spiritual learning about the Goddess is the muse that guides and inspires us. She is the high priest who unfolds the inner truths. Atma in Dasa Maha Vidyas is called Mother with 10 different names in 10 types of major dimensions. Shiva being in Yoga Nidra appears with Energy - the Beautiful Mother Nature. When oneís illusion surrenders to Mother by following any one of 10 Maha Vidyas, Man realizes that She is none other than Shiva. Shiva externally appears as Mother but internally as Siva. This is the secret meaning of all Maha Vidyas. It is also important to understand that one who follows these vidyas should understand the mind beyond the mundane. Worship of these goddesses suggests the devotee experiences refreshing and Aatha Saptamo-Dhyaayaha 101 freeing spirituality away from all fixed social orders. The central aim here is to stretch awareness beyond the conventional and to break away from approved social norms, roles, and expectations. An adept devotee seeks to release her or his consciousness from inherited, imposed, and inhibiting divisions of proper and improper, good and bad, polluted and pure. Living life according to rules of purity dictate how bodily role is exercised. Mahavidyas make easy this escape. By identifying with the forbidden or marginalized, an adept seeker earns a refreshing perspective. A mystical adventure, without experience from a spiritual search remains incomplete. 102 The Cosmic Connection

8. Atha Ashtamo-Dhyaayah

Much of the power of DevÓ M‚h‚tmya is gained from the way in which hymnal material is held together by two or more melodic lines, each individual and distinguished as well. The lengthy digressive portion of Mahatmyam has a relaxed style about Chhandiís cathartic pursuits in the world. To the reader and listener, it has a clear religious, committed devotional significance. It therefore emerges as an intense passion of love through hymns. dhyaanam Meditating: 1. aum rishir uvaacha The rishi said: 2. chande cha nihate daitye munde cha vinipaatite bahuleshu cha sainyeshu kshayi teshva sureshvarah Conceited Shumbha was made aware of the death of Passionate Chanda and Angry Munda-and also of their thought armies 3. tatah kopaparaa dhina chetaah shumbhah prataapavaan udyogam sarva sainyaa naam daityaa naam aadidesha ha Conceited Shumbha became angry and in his usual smugness, commanded mobilising all of his many armies of thought. 4. adya sarva balair daityaah shada shitir udaa yudhaah kambunaam chatur shitir niryaantu svabalair vr-aah Let all thought armies rise in unison. Let thoughts that plunder peace [Kambuís] and Shambuís unrestrained armies reassemble. 5. koti viryaani panchaashad asuraanaam kulaani vai shatam kulaani dhaumraanaam nirgach chantu mamaagyanyaa Collect millions of thought warriors and their families. Call on families of vice who are descendants of Dhumralochana, the General with sinful eyes. 6. kaalakaa daur hrdaa mauryaah kaalakeyaas tathaa suraah yudhaaya sajaa niryaantu ajnaayaa tvaritaa mama I will myself lead all armies of conceited Shumbha, Kalakas of calamity, Daurhrdas with perplexed-hearts, recurring thoughts of Mauryas and Kalikeyas who fear the unknown immediately after war. 7. ityaa gynaapyaa surapatih shumbho bhairava shaasanah nirjagaama mahaasainya sahasrair bahubhir vrtah

102 Atha Ashtamo-Dhyaayah 103

After issuing these orders, Shumbha marched with thousands of army thoughts towards the battlefield. 8. aayaantam chandikaa drshtvaa tat sainyam atibhi shanam jyaasva naih purayaa maasa dharani gaganaanta ram Seeing the most vicious army approaching Her, Chhandika, destroyer of thought filled space with ëHumí from the twang of Her bow. 9. tatah simho mahaanaadam ativa krtavaan nrpa ghantaa svanena tannaadam ambikaa chopabrm hayat Then Ambikaís lion let out a loud roar and Ambika worsened the uproar with her bellís ëHumí. 10. dhanurjyaa simha ghantaanaam naadaa puritadin mukhaa ninaadair bhishanaih kaali jigye vista ritaananaa Now as Kali expanded Her mouth and filled space with Her ferocious ëhumí it overshadowed lionís roar, the bellís hum, and humming the from Her bowstring. 11. tam ninaadam upashrutya daitya sainyaish chaturdisham devi simhas tathaa kaali saroshaih parivaaritaah Hearing tumultuous sounds coming from all directions, thought warriors were furious and surrounded both Chhandikaand Kali. 12. etasmin antare bhupa vinaashaaya suradvishaam bhavaa yaamara simhaanaam ativirya balaanvitaah At that moment, to slay tamasic negative thoughts for the well-being of rajasic positive thoughts and their return to heavens, 13. brahm-esha guha vishnu-naam tath-endrasya cha shakta-yah sharire-bhyo vinish-kramya tadru-paish-chandi-kaam yayuh There issued forth strong energies or from bodies of Brahma of Creative- Capacity, Vishnu of Pervasive-Awareness, Shiva of Infinite-Goodness, Indra-of- Purity, Guha of the Wise and from other devas. In unison, the Total energy approached Chhandika who destroys thoughts. 14. yasya devasya yadrupam yathaa bhushana vaahanam tadvadeva hi tach chaktir asuraan yoddhumaa yayau Energies emitted from their form, , and weapons and assemble to fight with negative thought armies. 15. hamsayukta vimaan aagre saaksha kamandaluh aayaataa brahmanah shak-tir brahmaani saabidhiyate On a heavenly chariot drawn by swans of breath control (pranayama), came Brahmaís creative-energy Brahmaani carrying a rosary and begging-bowl. 16. maheshvari vrshaa rudhaa trishula varadhaarini mahaahiva layaa praaptaa chandra rekhaa vibhushanaa Meheshvari who is energy of seers arrived seated on the bull of discipline, 104 The Cosmic Connection

holding a trident of Unity, wearing serpent bracelets of Energy and decorated with a crescent Moon of devotion. 17. kaumaari shakti hastaa cha mayura vara vaahanaa yoddhum abhyaa yayau daityaan ambikaa guharupini Ambikaís energy came as Kaumari of the ever pure in the form of energy of Awareness ñ Guha, holding all manner of weapons and riding a beautiful peacock, all in readiness to fight the thought battle. 18. tathaiva vaishnavi shaktir garudopari samsthitaa shankha chakra gadaa shaarnga khadga hastaa bhyupaa yayau Vishnuís all pervading Consciousness came as Vaishnavi seated on radiant Garuda and holding conch of vibrating Aum, discus of revolving Time, club of explaining Speech, bow of Determination, and a sword of Worship to fight armies of thoughts. 19. yagna vaaraaham atulam rupam yaa bibhrato hareh shaktih saapyaa yayau tatra vaaraahim bibhrati tanum Hariís energy came as Vaaraahi who wishes union and taking the form of a boar Varaha, She too was ready for a battle with thoughts. 20. naarasimhi nrsimhasya bibhrati sadrsham vapuh praaptaa tatra sataakshe pakshipta nakshatra samhatih Narasimhi, the fearless energy of Fortitude took Narasimhaís form and raised a fearful roar as She shook Her mane and scattered even the constellations in the sky. 21. vajrahastaa tathaiv aindri gajaraajo pari sthitaa praaptaa sahasra nayanaa yathaa shakras tathaiva saa The thousand eyed Aindri, the energy of Indra the ruler of the Pure mounted the King of elephants and arrived with Her thunderbolt of Illumination. 22. tathah parivrta staabhir ishaano deva shaktibhih hanyantaam asuraah shigram mama prityaaha chandikaam Then Shiva, surrounded by all energy expressions of every deity said to Chhandika: ëPlease destroy all thoughtsí. 23. tato devi shariraatu vanish kraantaa tibhishanaa chandikaa shaktir atyugraa shivaa shataninaadini Instantaneously, from Chhandikaís body issued forth a horrific and fearful energy. She howled like a hundred jackals. 24. saa chaaha dhumra jatilam ishaanam aparaajitaa duta tvam gachcha bhgavan paashvam shumba nishumbhayoh Invincible Chhandiís shakti turned to Shivaís matted hair and said, ìGo as my messenger to conceited Shumba and self-devaluating Nishumba... 25. bruhi shubham nishumbham cha daanavaavati garvitau ye chaanye daanavaas tatra yuddhaaya samupasthitaah Atha Ashtamo-Dhyaayah 105

ìTell these two destructive haughty thoughts, Shumbha and Nishumbha and other thoughts to ready for battle... 26. trailok-yam indro labhataam devaah santu havir bhujah yuyam prayaata paataalam yadi jivitum ichchatha ìIf negative thoughts want continued living, then return to lower worlds. Let Indra rule pure positive thoughts and allow him to become a resident of the three orlds. Allow positive thoughts to enjoy the fruits of their sacrifice... 27. balaavale paadatha ched bhavanto yuddha kaankshinah tadaa gachchata trpyantu mach chivaah pishitena vah ìBut if by the strength of your collective pride you still want to fight, then come... My expression will be pleased to enjoy your flesh.î 28. yato niyukto dautyena tayaa devyaa shivah svayam shivaduti ti lokesmims tatah saa khyaati maagataa Because She appointed Shivaís energy as messenger She became known as Shiva-duti. 29. tepi shrutvaa vacho devyaah sharvaakhyaa tam mahaasuraah amarshaa puritaa jagmur yatra kaatyayani sthitaa On hearing words of Shivaduti, lords of negative thoughts indignantly went up to where Katyayani the pure stood shining brilliantly. 30. tatah prathamam evaagre shara shaktyashti vrshti bhih vavarshu rud dhataam arshaas taam devi mamaraa rayah Then from above, an army of thoughts rained on Her energised weapons of negative thoughts . 31. saa cha prahitaan baanaan chulashakti parash vadhaan chicheda lilayaa dhmaata-dhanur-muktair-mahe-shubhih Playfully She shot back arrows of force which destroyed the weapons of negative thoughts. 32. tasyaagratas tathaa kaali shul-paata vidaaritaan khatvaanga pothitaamsh chaarin kurvati vyacharat tadaa Then, Kali went in front and crushed them to powder. 33. kamandalu jalaakshepa hataviryaan hatau jasah brahmaani chaakaroch chatrun yena yena sma dhaavati Creative energy, Brahmani sprinkled water from Her kamandalu on groups of negative thoughts and their valor and vitality were destroyed. 34. maaheshvari trishulena tathaa chakrena vaishnavi daityaan jaghaana kaumaari tathaa shaktyaa ti kopanaa Creative energy of Seers with Maheshvari slew thoughts with Her trident. Energy of pervasive Awareness ñ Vaishnavi, destroyed thoughts with Her discus. With energy of the Pure, Kaumari killed thoughts with Her javelin. 106 The Cosmic Connection

35. aindri kulisha paatena shatasho daitya daanavaah petur vidaaritaah prthvyaam rudhiraugha pravarshinah Energy of ruler of the Pure, Aindri destroyed thoughts with Her thunderbolt... many dropped confused and bleeding. 36. tundaprahaara vidhvastaa damsh traagra kshata vakshasah vaaraaha murtyaa nyapatamsh chakrena cha vidaaritah Energy who wants union Varahi shattered many thoughts with blows from Her snout. Others She gored with Her tusks. Many She tore down with Her discus. 37. nakhair vidaari taamsh chaanyaan bhakshayanti mahaasuraan naarasimhi chachaar rajau naadaapurna digambaraa Energy of fortitude, Narasimhi filled the sky from above. She filled the four quarters with a roaring of Her ëHumí. She roamed the battlefield devouring and clawing all thoughts in Her way. 38. chandaat tahaa sairasuraah shiva dutyabhi dushitaah petuh prthivyaam patitaamstaamsh chakhaadaatha saa tadaa Dazed by the furious laughter of Shivaduti, many thoughts fell. Others She smashed in Her mouth. 39. iti maatraganam kruddham mardayantam mahaasuraan drshtvaa bhyupaayair vividhair neshur devaarisai nikaah Seeing the Mothers of Energy slaying multitudes of thoughts the remaining army of thoughts began running away. 40. palaayana paraan drshtvaa daityaan maatr ganaarditaan Yod dhuma bhyaayayau kruddho raktabijo mahaasurah Seeing oppressed thoughts fleeing from Mothers of energy, Raktabij a strong seed of desire thought, entered the battlefield in a rage. 41. raktabindur yadaa bhumau patatyasya shariratah samutpatati medinyaam tat pramaanas tadaasurah Whenever a drop of blood fell from Raktabij another thought of equal valor would arise from the blood. 42. yuyudhe sa gadaa paanir indra shaktyaa mahaasurah tatashchaindri sva vajrena raktabijam ataadayat Seed thought who held a club fought Aindri, the energy of the Pure who in turn struck him with Her thunderbolt. 43. kulisenaa hatasyaashu bahu susraava shonitam samuttasthus tato yodhaas tadrupaastat paraakramaah Wounded by the thunderbolt, blood poured from Raktabijís body. For every drop of blood that spilled, another desire thought appeared who was equally fierce. 44. yaavantaah pati taastasya shariraad rakta bindavah taava-tah purushaa jaataas tadvirya balavikra maah Atha Ashtamo-Dhyaayah 107

As many drops of blood of Want fell to the ground, so many new thoughts came into being... each equally couragageous, strong and bold. 45. te chaapi yuyudhus tatra purushaa rakta sam-bhavaah samam maatrbhir atyugra paataati bhishanam And those Desire thoughts that sprang up from Raktabijís blood owned fearful weapons capable of fighting all Mothers of Energy. 46. punashcha vajra paatena kshatamasya shiro yadaa vavaaha raktam purushaas tato jaataah sahasrashah When Raktabijís head was injured with Her thunderbolt, from his blood emerged thousands of Desire thoughts, all equally persistent and fearless. 47. vaishnavi samare chainam chakrenaabhi jaghaana ha gadayaa taadayaa maasa aindri tam asureshvaram Energy of Consciousness Vaishnavi struck Raktabij with Her discus. Energy of pure Aindri beat Raktabij with Her club. 48. vashnavi chakrabhin nasya rudhira sraava sambhavaih sahasrasho jagad vyaaptam tat pramaanair mahaasuraih Energy that pervades all with Consciuosness, Vaishnavi had so wounded Seed thought Desire the world became filled thousands of desiring thoughts, all of equal stature as master Desire thought that was also cloven. 49. shaktyaa jaghaana kaumaari vaaraahi cha tathaasinaa maheshvari trishulena raktabijam mahaa suram Energy of pure Kaumari, struck Raktabij with Her spear. Energy for union Varahi, struck with Her sword and Energy of seers Maheshvari, speared him with Her trident. 50. sa chaapi gadayaa daityah sarvaa evaahanat prthak maatrh kopa samaavishto raktabijo mahaa surah Raktabija now enraged, struck each Mother of Energy with his club. 51. tasyaa hatasya bahudhaa shakti shulaadibir bhuvi papaata yo vai raktau ghas-tenaa-san chatasho suraah As a river of blood flowed from General Seed-of-desire, many desire thoughts stood up again to fight Mothers of Energy. 52. taish chaasuraa srksam bhutair asuraih sakalam jagat vyaaptam aasit tato devaa bhayamaajag muruttamam This continued until the whole world became overrun with desire thoughts. Army of positive thoughts became alarmed. 53. taan vishannaan suraan drshtvaa chandikaa praaha satvara uvaacha kaalim chaamunde vistirnam vadanam kuru Seeing positive thoughts dejected, Chhandi who destroys Thoughts told Kali who removes Darkness: ìExpand Your mouth.î 108 The Cosmic Connection

54. machchastra paata sambhutaan raktabindhun mahaasuraan raktabindoh pratichcha tvam vaktrenaa nena veginaa ìWhen I strike with My weapons, You consume all the blood from Raktabij. Drink all the blood that spills from them before it hits the ground.î 55. bhakshayanti chara rane tad utpa naan mahaasuraan evamesha kshayam daityah kshinarakto gamishyati ìRoam the battlefield and devour every Desire thought that springs from the blood flow. We will soon destroy them all.î 56. bhakshya maanaas tvayaa chograa na chotpat syanti chaapare ityuktvaa taam tato devi shulenaabhi jaghaana tam ìAs you go on devouring the blood, none more will be born.î Having said that, Chhandi struck Raktabij the seed of desire with Her trident. 57. mukhena kaali jagrhe rakta bijasya shonitam tato saavaa jaghaa naatha gadayaa tatra chandikaam Then Kali who removes darkness took Raktabijís blood in Her mouth, but was struck with his club. 58. na chaasyaa vedanaam chakre gadaapaato lp kaamapi tasyaa hatasya dehaattu bahu susraava shonitam This blow from Raktabijís club caused Chhandi no problem, but blood spilled copiously from his wounds..... 59. yatas tatas tad vaktrena chaamundaa sampratich chati mukhe samudgataa yesyaa rakta paataan mahaa suraah Then Chaamundi who is slayer of passion and anger drank whatever blood was spilled from desire thoughts. She even devoured thoughts that sprang from blood now in Her mouth. 60. taamsh chakhaa daatha chaamundaa papau tasya cha shonitam devi shulena vajrena baanai rasibhir rshtibhih Then She fought Raktabij who is seed of desires with an assortment of Her weapons. 61. jaghaana raktabijam tam chaamundaapita shonitam sa p-paata mahiprsh the shaastra sangha samaahatah Exanguinated, Raktabij fell and She continued to drink his blood. 62. niraktashcha mahipaala raktabijo mahaasurah tataste harsha matulam avaa pustridashaa nrpa Stricken with a multitude of weapons, Raktabij was finally killed and positive thoughts rejoiced. 63. teshaam maatr-gano jaato nanar-taa-srn madod-dhatah Once the army of Desire-thoughts were destroyed, all Shaktis who are Mothers of Energy sprang up and danced in joy, drunk with the blood of Desire thoughts. Atha Ashtamo-Dhyaayah 109

Iti shri maarkandeya purane saavarnike manvantare devimahat-mye raktabij vado naam adhyaayaha Here ends the eighth chapter called the slaying of Raktabij who is the Seed-of- Desire.

By Swami Shivananda And the Rishi said: When Chanda Asura was killed and Munda also destroyed and all their armies were reduced and powerless. Sumbha, the Asura king, was disturbed. He ordered an unification of all Daitya armies, and said, ìNow let all my warriors unite and with all their weapons, march against the woman in the Himalayas. Let my eighty-six commanders collect their armies of elephant-riders, and let my eighty-four commanders collect their armies of chariots. Let the fifty crores of powerful fighters and a hundred sects of Dhoomra rakshasas start out. Let armies of Kulakas, Daurhridas, Maurvas, and Kalakeyas among other asuras start for war against that heavenly woman. Quick.î Seeing a huge army approaching Her, Maya covered the earth and sky with showers of arrows. Her lion roared. At the same time destruction of the worlds started at the end of a . Sounds of weapons and the roars of the lion increased. Ambikaís bells and conches thundered. Hearing these sounds, asuras encircled Devi, Her lion and Kali. At this memorable time, for welfare for the world, the powerful forces of Brahma, Vishnu, Siva, Skanda and Indra entered the body of Durga Devi The force of Brahma came as Kamandalu on a swan and Shivaís force came riding on a bull holding a trident, wearing the moon and snakes. Skandaís came riding a peacock with Shakti in Her hand. Vishnu rode the Garuda and holding Sankha, Chakra, Gada, Sharnga and Khadga in Her hands. She also appeared as Varaha, Narasimha and Indra sitting on his elephant with Vajra, and a thousand eyes. Then Durga Deviís body came out. Her power (Kali) frightened the entire quarters with Her appearance. She called Her messenger, Ishana, and said to Her, ìGo and tell the Rakshasas that Indra should rule the heaven, the gods should earn sacrificial offerings. If they wish to fight with me, let them come, I shall feed on their hotblood with joy!î Since She was sent by Kali with this message, She is called ìSivadootiî - messenger of Kali. Hearing the pompous message from Kali, asuras who are filled with rage, ran towards Katyayani. But the shrewd Katyayani showered added rains of arrows and divine weapons which blocked Asuras from working their weapons. Then Kali with Her invincible elemental power rushed through armies like a hurricane and swept away thousands of asuras or crushed them down under earthís feet. By sprinkling holy waters from Her Kamandalu, She absorbed all the strength of asuras. With Narasimhiís form She ate while ferociously roaring. Seeing the destruction of the 110 The Cosmic Connection asura army, Raktabij, their leader, came out arrogantly and in fury. From every drop of blood that fell there emerged hundreds of rakshasa of equal power and valor. Raktabij fell on [Aindri] with rage and threw up his deadly weapons. Indrani with Her Vajra cut him down and from the gushing blood rose thousands of Rakshasas. All these fought with Devi from all quarters. After a severe blow with Deviís vajra [thunderbolt], Raktabijís head was fatally wounded. From his blood also thousands of emerged. Finally She broke Raktabijís head with Her gada, (mace), and his blood gave birth to so many warrior-asuras the whole earth seemed to be filled by them. She tore his body with Her chakra but daityas filled the sky with fearful giants. Asuras filled the earth and devas with fear. Seeing the Devas dejected, Devi told Kali to widen her mouth and protrude Her tongue, ìO Kaali, when I kill Asuras, do not allow even a drop of blood to fall. Drink it all up.î Saying thus, Devi stabbed Raktabij and drank up blood of asuras. She punctured Raktabij with a trident. Raktabij roared his last roar and fell and shook the mountainlike earth. All the gods were filled with great joy and celestials sang and danced. 9. Atha Navamo-Dhyaayaha

These three tales including the previous one which is the third - are allegories of outer and inner experiences, symbolized by the fierce battles Devi wages against crowds of personal demonic foes. Her enemies represent human impulses of desire- kama, anger-krodha, greed- lobha, possessiveness-moha, pride-matsarya, and egoñ ahamkar. All arise while chasing want for power, possessions, pleasure, and illusions of self-importance. Mahadevi the great Goddess is a term used to mean Goddess or Devi that is all other Devis - an all encompassing Female Deity as consort to the all encompassing Male Deity or the Supreme Reality - Brahman in . She is traditionally accepted with any specific Goddess, the most common being Durga, Kali or Lakshmi, depending on the religious group of individuals. dhyaanam Meditating: 1. aum rajovaacha Aum: the King said: 2. vichitra midam aakhyaatam bhagavan bhavataa mama devyaash charita maahaatmyam raktabija vadhaashritam Wonderful is this story about the death of seed of desires. Her greatness is obvious in the slaying of all thoughts of negativity. 3. bhuyashchech chaamyaham shrotum raktabije nipaatite chakaara shumbho yatkarma nishumbhash chaati kopanah I wish to hear about what the irate Shumbha lord of conceit and Nishumbha (lord of self-devaluation) did after Raktabij was killed. 4. rishir uvaacha The rishi said: 5. chakaara kopam atulam raktabije nipatite shumbhaasuro nishumbhash cha hatesh vanyeshu chaahave After Raktabij, seed of desire, and other thought generals and thought armies were killed, Shumbha and Nishumbha were furious. 6. hanyamaanam mahaasainyam vilokyaa marsha mudvahan abhyadhaavan nishumbhotha mukhyayaasura senaayaa Enraged at seeing their armies slaughtered, Nishumbha angrily rushed with his army generals towards all Mothers of the universe.

111 112 The Cosmic Connection

7. tasyaagratas tathaa prshthe paarsh vayoshcha mahaasuraah samdash taustha putaah kruddhaa hantum devi mupaayayuh From every side, thought generals advanced at Mothers - frowning with rage and bent on killing them. 8. aajagaama mahaaviryah shumbhopi svabalair vrtah nihantum chandikaam kopaat krtvaa yuddham tu matrbhih Shumbha also joined. They surrounded Her with intent to kill not only Chhandika, but also all the Mothers of energy. 9. tato yuddhamati vaasid devyaa shumbha nishumbhayoh shara varsha mativogram meghayoriva varshatoh This started a severe combat with Chhandika on one side and Shumbha- Nishumbha on the other. Like rain clouds these thought generals let loose showers of thought arrows. 10. chichchedaas taan charaam staabhyaam chandikaa svasharot karaih taadayaamaasa chaangeshu shaastrau ghair asureshvarau Chhandika quickly destroyed thought arrows in flight. With Her own arrows and weapons, Chhandika wounded them. 11. nishumbho nishitam khadgam charma chaadaaya suprabham ataadayan murdhni simham devyaa vaahana muttamam With sword and shield, Nishumbha hit the lion Chhandika was riding. 12. taadite vaahane devi kshuraprenaa simuttamam nishum bhasyaashu chichcheda charma chaapyasta chandrakam When the lion was wounded, Chhandika destroyed Nishumbhaís sword and then his shield inlaid with eight moons. 13. chinne charmani khadge cha shaktim chikshepa sosurah taamapyasya dvidhaa chakre chakrenaabhi mukhaagataam When his weapons were destroyed, Nishumbha raised his energy to injure Chhandika. She instead split his discus. 14. kopaadh maato nishumbhotha shulam jagraaha daanavah aayaatam mushti paatena devi tachchaapya churnayat Furious, Nishumbha hurled a dart at Chhandika. She smashed it to dust. 15. aavidh yaatha gadaam sopi chikshepa chandikaam prati saapi devyaa trishulena bhinnaa bhasma tvam aagataa He then grabbed a club and hurled it at Her. She cut it with Her trident and reduced it to ashes. 16. tatah parashu hastam tama yaantam daitya pungavam aahatya devi baanau ghair apaata yata bhutale Nishumbha picked up an ax. When Chhandika saw him coming, She attacked him with a shower of Her own arrows. Having wounded him, She crushed him into the ground. Atha Navamo-Dhyaayaha 113

17. tasmin nipatite bhumau nishumbhe bhimavikrame bhraa taryativa samkruddhah prayayau hantum ambikaam As soon as Nishumbha was killed, Shumbha became angry and advanced to kill Chhandika. 18. sa rathasthas tathaat yuchchair grhita paramaa yudhaih bhujair ashtaabhir atulair vyaapyaashe sham babhau nabhah Shumbha sat on his chariot displaying his magnificent weapons in his eight arms. Their brilliance brightened the sky. 19. tama yaantam samaalokya devi shankham avaadayat jyaa-shabdam chaapi dhanushash chakaaraativa duhsaham Seeing him approach Chhandika blew Her conch, twanged Her bow and made an unbearable noise. 20. purayaamaasa kakubho nijaghantaa svanena cha samasta daitya sainyaanaam tejo vadha vidhaayinaa Four directions were filled with the sound from Her bell, and a Hum that destroyed the strength of thought armies. 21. tatah simho mahaanaadais tyaa jitebha mahaamadaih purayaa maasa gaganam gaam tathaiva disho dasha The lion roared. Elephants who heard it lost their pride. The ìhumî and roar, filled the sky in all directions. 22. tatah kaali samut patya gaganam kshmaam ataadayat karaa bhyaam tanni naadena praaksva naaste tirohitaah Kali who removes darkness sprang into the sky and came down striking the earth with both Her hands. The sound She made drowned all other preceding sounds. 23. attaattahaa samashivam shivaduti chakaara ha taih shabdair asuraa stresuh shumbhah kopam param yayau Shivaduti laughed fiercely. Conceited tought army was terrified and became agitated. 24. duraatmam stishtha tishtheti vyaajhaar aambikaa yadaa tadaa jaye tyabhihitam devair aakaasha samsthitaih Ambika asked all evil negative thoughts to stop fighting. Positive thoughts now rejoiced. 25. shum bhenaa gatya yaa shaktir muktaa jvaalaa ti bhishanaa aayaanti vahni kutaabhaa saa nirastaa mahol kayaa Next, Shumbha hurled a powerful ball of fire. Chhandika smothered it with Her own flame of fire. 26. simha naadena shumbhasya vyaaptam lokatrayaan taram nirghaata nih svano ghoro jitavaana vanipate 114 The Cosmic Connection

The interspace became filled with roars coming from Shumbha, but Her frightful thundering smothered his roars. 27. shumbha muktaan charaan devi shumbastat prahitaan charaan chichcheda svasharair ugraih shatashotha sahasrashah Shumbhaís and Deviís arrows destroyed thoughts by the thousands. 28. tatah saa chandikaa kruddhaa shulenaa bhi ja ghaanatam sa tadaabhi hato bhumau murchchito nipapaata ha Enraged Chhandika struck Shumbha with Her spear. Wounded he fell senseless. 29. tato nishumbhah sampraapya chetanaa maatta kaarmukah aajaghaana sharair devim kaalim kesarinam tathaa Nishumbha had by now regained awareness. He took up his bow and struck Chhandika and Her lion as well. 30. punashcha kttvaa baahunaam ayutam danujesh varah chakraa-yudhena ditijash chaadayaa maasa chandikaam Son of Confusion with earthly ideas, spread his army of past habits and concepts attacked Chhandika with his discus. 31. tato bhagavati kruddhaa durgaa durgaarti naashini chicheda taani chakraani svasharaih saaya kaamshcha taan Bhagavati Durga became enraged and cut his discus and arrows of thoughts. 32. tato nishumbho vegena gadaa maadaaya chandi kaam abhya dhaavata vai hantum daitya senaa samaa vrtah Nishumbha attacked Chhandika with his club. He enlisted help from the army of thoughts. 33. tasyaa patata evaashu gadaam chichcheda chandikaa khadgena shitadhaarena sa cha shulam samaadade As he approached Her, Chhandika cut his club with Her sharp sword. He then grabbed his spear. 34. shula hastam samaayaan tam nishumbha mama raardanam hrdi vivyaadha shulena vegaavid dhena chandikaa She saw him approaching and Chhandika used Her own spear and pierced Nishumbha who agitates positive thoughts. 35. bhinnasya tasya shulena hrdayaan nihsrto parah mahaabalo mahaa viryas tishteti purusho vadan Emerging from his pierced heart came an Energy of great strength which asked Her to stop. 36. tasya nishkraa mato devi prahasya svanavat tatah shirash chich cheda khadgena tatosaava patadbhuvi She severed the head of the spirit with the same sword and felled it to the ground. Atha Navamo-Dhyaayaha 115

37. tatah simhash chakhaado gram dam shtraak shunna shiro dharaan asuraam staamsta thaa kaali shivaduti tathaa paraan Then, the lion devoured all thoughts whose necks were crushed. Then, Shivaduti and Kali devoured whatever was left of the thoughts. 38. kaumaari shakti nirbhinnaah kechin neshur mahaasuraah bramaani mantra putena toyenaanye niraakrtaah Kaumari killed many bold negative thoughts with Her spear. Others were repulsed and sanctified with pure water and incantations by Brahmaani. 39. maaheshvari trishulena bhinnaah petus tathaapare vaaraahi tunda ghaatena kechich churnikrtaa bhuvi Maheshvari felled many thoughts with Her trident. Vaaraahi ground other thoughts with Her snout. 40. khandam khandam cha chakrena vaishnavyaa daanavaah krtaah vajrena chaindri hastaagra vimuktena tathaapare Confusional thoughts were cut by Vaishnaviís discus. Others were killed with Aindriís thunderbolt, which She emitted from the palm of Her own hand. 41. kechid vineshura suraah kechinnastaa mahaahavaat bhakshitaash chaapare kaali shivaduti mrgaadhi paih Some thoughts self-destructed. Others fled the battlefield. Remaining thoughts were devoured by Kali who is also Shivaís Shivaduti seated on the brave lion. Iti shri-maarkandeya puraane saavarnike manvantare dev-mahaatmye nishumbha vado naam navamo dhyaayaha Here ends Chapter Nine relating the ëSlaying of Nishumbhaí of Devimahatmya in Markandeya Purana during the period of Savarni, the Manu.

By Swami Shivananda The king said, ìO sage! Wonderful is this story you told me. Amazing is the glory of Devi. Fantastic are the circumstances of Raktabijís death. I wish to hear what Sumbha and Nishumbha did after the death of Raktabij.î On hearing all the army was destroyed and Raktabij killed, the two King brothers flew into a mad rage. Nisumbha fell on Devi with the principal portion of the asura army usually reserved for special purpose. From all quarters asuras tossed poisonous weapons and invincible missiles. Shumbha also came with a large army to capture Devi. He fought with various forms of Devi ñsometimes appearing as Kali, Vaishnavi, Raudri, Brahmi, Narasimhi, and the rest. An unforgettable battle was fought between Durga Devi and Shumbha/Nishumbha. The fight was astonishing and. Devas began to tremble. The sky was covered with clouds of arrows. Devi fell on the asuras. Nishumbha came with a sharp sword, and beat Deviís lion severely. Devi immediately broke his sword. Nisumbha in a rage used his Shakti. Now Devi grew angry and wounded Nishumbha. 116 The Cosmic Connection

Seeing his brother on the ground, Shumbha ran to kill Ambika. He fought sitting on a chariot. He came with eight hands full of astras [weapons]. He covered the whole sky. Devi seeing Shumbha coming towards Her, blew Her Conch, and filled the sky with a sound worsened by a great sound from Her bow and arrows. The lion roared and there was fearful thunder everywhere. Devi kicked the earth powerfully and tossed it up towards the sky with a great force of an earthquake. A ferocious sound swallowed up all. Shivadooti and Kali jumped with heroic vigor and ferocious rage. Such sounds made asuras angry. But Devi said, ìO wicked Rakshasa [demon], wait. Stand there, where do you think you can run?î ìVictory, victory!î Was heard from above. Heroic battle cries of Shumbha filled space. Countless weapons were thrown at Ambika by Shumbha. She burned them all to ashes. Devi, with Her powerful trishula, pierced Shumbha in the chest and he fell to the ground. By this time Nishumbha regained his senses and again got up to fight. Devi pierced him again in the chest and another ferocious demon who challenged Devi emerged. Devi laughed and cut off his head with one stroke. Some asuras were eaten by the lion. Some were chewed in Kaliís jaws. Some were cut in two by Kaumari. Some became enchanted by water in Brahmiís Kamandalu. Maheshvariís trident or trishul broke his snout with the help of Varahi. Some were sliced tup by Vaishnaviís chakra. Some were killed by Aindriís vajra. All asuras thus fell victims to one or the other aspects of Mother Earth. 10. Atha Dashamo Dhyaayaha

During a fierce battle in which the Goddess displays her omnipotence by defeating powerful demons that terrify devas, She battles Raktabij (chapter 8). Every drop of blood Raktabij sheds transforms into more demons as soon as it touches earth. A unique strategy was devised to conquer him. First a fiery burst of energy emerging from Deviís third eye takes the dark skeletal form of Kali. With her huge mouth and enormous tongue she ferociously laps up Raktabijís blood, thus preventing the uprising of further demons. The story continues in which [Ambika] Devi, Kali and the group of Matrikas destroy the demonic brothers Shumbha (chapter 10) and Nishumbha (chapter 9). In the final battle against Shumbha, Durga Devi [Ambika] absorbs Kali and the matrikas and stands alone for the final battle. Interestingly, Devi Mahatmyam is chanted by Sikhs as Chandi di Var, also known as Var Sri Bhagauti. It is a composition created by Guru Gobind Singh and is included in the 5th chapter of Dasam Granth. It is based on the Sanskrit work Markandeya Purana. It describes a conflict between Gods and Demons. The theme was chosen to infuse martial spirit among the Guru Gobind Singhís followers. In the ballad, a mythological goddess Chhandi is transformed into a liberating divine power in the form of sword, which crushes perpetuators of falsehood dhyaanam Meditating: 1. aum rishir uvaacha The rishi said: 2. nishumbham nihatam drshtvaa bhraataram praana sammitam hanyamaanam balam chaiva shumbhah kruddho bravid vachah Seeing his brother Nishumbha slain and armies conquered, Shumbha spoke angrily: 3. balaavale paad dushte tvam maa durge garvamaavaha anyaasaam balam aashritya yuddhyase yaatimaanini ìOh Remover of difficulties Durga, You are so proud of Your strength. You do not impress me. You fight with strength of others. 4. devi uvaacha The devi said: 5. ekaivaa ham jagatyatra dvitiyaa kaa mamaaparaa pashyaitaa dushta mayyeva vishantyo madvibhutayah

117 118 The Cosmic Connection

I am alone. In this visible universe it is I alone who Exists. These Mothers you see are none other than My own expressions! See how they all enter back into Me. 6. tatah samastaastaa devyo brahmaani pramukhaa layam tasyaa devyaas tanau jagmur ekaivaasit tadaambikaa At that moment, all Energy mothers, led by creative Brahmaani entered Mother of the Universe Ambika Devi. Now only one Mother-of-Universe as Existence was seen. 7. devi uvaacha The devi said: 8. aham vibhutyaa bahubhir iha rupair yadaa sthitaa tat samhrtam mayaikaiva tishthaam yaajau sthiro bhava ìThese many forms I project are by My power and are My own Energy. I may stand alone, as well as, many. All are introverted into Me. Therefore, stand up and fight.î 9. rishir uvaacha The rishi said: 10. tatah pravavrte yuddham devyaah shumbhasya chobhayoh pashyataam sarva devaanaam asuraanaam cha daarunam Then a fight began between Shumbha and Ambika while armies of both positive and negative thoughts looked on. 11. sharavarshaih shitaih shastrais tathaa straishchaiva daarunaih tayor yuddham abhud bhuyah sarva lokabhayan karam Combat involved many powerful weapons and missiles. Natural phenomenon provoked electrical storms, earthquakes, floods, fires, hurricanes and frightened the three worlds. 12. divyaanya straani shatasho mumuche yaanyath aambikaa babhanja taani daityendras tatprati ghaata kartrbhih Ambika fought with all Her divine weapons and missiles which were repulsed or destroyed by Shumbha. 13. muktaani tena chastraani divyaani parameshvari babhanja lilayai vogra hunkaaroch chaaranaadi bhih Ambika waited while playfully destroying his weapons as She recited ìHumî among other mantras. 14. tatah sharashatair devimaach chaadayata sosurah saapi tat kupitaa devi dhanush chichcheda cheshubhih Thought arrows swirled around in the hundreds, but they were repulsed by Ambikaís arrows. She finally cut Shumbhaís bow as well. 15. chinne dhanushi daityendras tathaa shaktimathaadade chichcheda devi chakrena taamapyasya kare sthitaam Atha Dashamo Dhyaayaha 119

With his bow destroyed, Shumbha now picked up his vigor but She cracked it with Her discus. 16. tatah khadga mupaadaaya shatachandram cha bhaanumat abhyadhaa vattadaa devim daityaanaama dhipeshvarah He next picked up a sword and shield embedded with many moons and rushed to attack Ambika. 17. tasyaa patata evaashu khadgam chichcheda chandikaa dhanurmuktaih shitair baanaish charma chaarka karaa-malam Just as he was rushing towards Her, Ambika split his sword with Her bow and arrows. She destroyed his shiny shield that shone like solar rays. 18. hataashvah sa tadaa daityash chinadhanvaa visaarathih jagraaha mudgaram ghoram ambikaa nidhano dyatah Having lost his steed, bow, and charioteer, the Lord of Conceit seized his mace and tried to kill Ambika. 19. chichedaa patatastasya mudgaram nishitaih sharaih tathaapi sobhya haavataam mushti mudyamya vegavaan She split the mace with Her arrows, but Shumbha continued to rush towards Her. He now raised his fist to strike Her. 20. sa mushtim paatayaamaasa hrdaye daitya pungavah devyaastam chaapi saa devi talenorasya taadayat He struck Her chest with his fist and She struck his chest with Her palm. 21. talaprahaaraabhi hato nipapaata mahitale sa daitya raajah sahasaa punreva tathot thitah Wounded by the blow on his chest, he fell to the ground but immediately stood up again. 22. utpatya cha pragrhyoch chair devim gaganamaasthi tah tatraapi saa niraadhaaraa yuyudhe tena chandikaa He seized Her and both sprang into the sky where they fought without a prop. 23. niyudham khe tadaa daityashchandikaa cha parasparam chakratuh prathamam sidhamuni vismaya kaarakam The two fought like never before, causing confusion in sages, heavenly beings, as well as in armies of thought. 24. tato niyudham suchiram krtvaa tenaambikaa saha utpaatya bhraamayaa maasa chikshepa dharanitale Ambika fought him for the longest time. She finally picked him up, swung him around and hurled him back to earth from the skies. 25. sa kshipto dharanim praapya mushtim udyamya vegitah abhyadhaa vata dushtaatmaa chandikaa nidhanech chayaa Shumbha flew up again as soon as he hit earth. He prepared to strike Chhandika again with his fist. 120 The Cosmic Connection

26. tamaayaantam tato devi sarva daitya janeshvaram jagatyaam paatayaamaasa bhitvaa shulena vakshasi Seeing Shumbha approaching Her, She felled him with Her spear which pierced his chest. She then hurled Shumbha back to the ground. 27. sa gataasuh papaa torvyaam devi shulaa gravikshatah chaalayan sakalaam prthvim saabdhi dvipam saparvataam He now fell lifeless to the ground. This fall was so powerful that an earthquake shook the entire earth. 28. tatah prasan namakhilam hate tasmin duraatmani jagat svaasthya mativaapa nirmalam chaabhavannabhah Once the evil thought was slain, displayed universe rejoiced in their newfound peace. Skies now became clear. 29. utpaatameghaah solkaa ye praagaasamste shamam yayuh sarito maarga vaahinyas tathaa samstatra paatite Clouds of confused thoughts stilled after the fall of Shumbha. Rivers of meditative thought began to flow their normal courses again. 30. tato devaganaah sarve harshanirbhara maanasaah babhuvurnihate tasmin gandharvaa lalitam jaguh Minds of devotional thoughts rejoiced and their voices sang in committed happiness. 31. avaadayams tathaivaanye nanrtush chaapsaro ganaah vavuh punyaastathaa vaataah suprabho bhubi divaakarah Devotional thought-maidens danced to instruments played by positive thoughts. A gentle breath slowed favourably and light of the Sun shone with brilliant Awareness. 32. jajvalush chaagnayah shaantaah shantaa digjanitas vanaah Sacred fires of sadhana blazed peacefully in every home. Peaceful sounds of Aum replaced fearful thoughts. Gurgles came from all quarters around the mind and body . Iti shri markandeya purane saavarnike manvantare devimahaatmye shumbhvadho naam dashamo dhyayaha This finishes Chapter Ten of Chhandi which relates to the ëSlaying of Shumbhaí in Devimahatmyam in Markandeya Purana during the period of Savarni Manu.

By Swami Shivananda Nisumbha was killed and Sumbha could not bear this insult to his kingly honor. With uncontrollable anger, he cried out, ìO weak, proud and wicked Durga[or Ambika or Devi or Chhandika] you are fighting with help.î The Devi said, ìI am Atha Dashamo Dhyaayaha 121 alone and single in this world. Who is here other than Me?î As soon as Durga uttered these words, all and many goddeses entered Deviís body. Now there was none other than a Single Chhandi Devi. She added, ìBe calm. I alone have the power of immanence and omnipresence and appear as many. Look now I stand single and have withdrawn myself into Myself.î Again Shumbha got up from the ground and raged a fierce war with Durga. Shumbha fell on Durga. The world did not know what would happen. Everybody eagerly watched for results of the battle. Every weapon was thrown at Ambika by the powerful Shumbha. As if in play, Durga swallowed them all and burned some to ashes by Her ëHumkara.í Shumbha took up his bow and arrows. Devi gathered chariots with horses and charioteer and dropped them off the steap mountainside. Shumbha fell to the ground. He jumped on Durga with his Mudgara astra. Devi smashed it with Her arrows. Then he raised his clenched fist to strike Her on the head. He hit Her breast instead with force. Devi beat his chest with Her mace and he fell senseless to the ground. Regaining consciousness, he stood up, soared into the sky and rained every weapon on Her. Devi also jumped into the sky and smashed him down to earth. Siddhas and Devas were surprised. Again Shumbha raised his fist but Devi stopped his life with Her trishul by breaching his chest into pieces. When he fell, he lay dead on a shaking earth and swelling oceans. The sky suddenly became clear. Devas were happy. The whole world felt joyous when wicked Daitya were killed. Gandharvas sang. Apsaras rejoiced and danced. Trees smiled. Rivers meandered happily. Oceans calmed. Raging fires burned-out. The atmosphere became bright. Earth was rid of Her load. Winds gusted gently. The Sun shone equally bright on all. † 122 The Cosmic Connection

11. Atha Ekaa-Dasho-Dhyaayah

Linked form of Lakshmi, Parvati and Saraswati or is considered Shakti of of Vishnu, Shiva and Brahma. This form of Hinduism, known as Shaktism, is associated with , Sankhya, and Tantra. Finally it is monistic, even though there is a tradition of associated with it. Feminine energy Shakti, is considered the power behind all action and existence in cosmos. The universe itself is Brahman. While unchanging, infinite, immanent, and transcendent as substratum itself it is actualized by feminine dynamism, embodied as a multitude of goddesses who reunite as one. dhyanam Meditating: 1. rishir uvaacha The rishi said: 2. devyaa hate tatra mahaasurendre sendraah suraa vahni purogamaastaam kaatyaayanim tushtu vurishta laabhaad vikaashi vaktraab jivikaashi taashaah Once on a time, negative thought army and their Lords were slain by Chhandi. Indra, Lord of Pure and his army were led by Agni [fire] through dharana or concentration into dhyana or meditation. Contemplating [dharana] thoughts praised Katyayani, Mother of the pure who gives happiness from spiritual effort. She illumined their serene faces with their desired fulfillment. 3. devi prapannaarti hare prasida prasida maatar jagatokhilasya prasida vishveshvari paahi vishvam tvamishvari devi charaacharasya You who removes distress in all who take refuge in You, be gracious Ambika. Be courteous and protect the universe. Only You reign supreme over things movable and immovable. 4. aadhaarabhutaa jagatas tvamekaa mahisvarupena yatah sthitaasi apaam svarupa sthitayaa tvayaita daapyaayate krtsnama langhyavirye You alone exist as adhibhuta in the intrinsic nature of earth. You without help

122 Atha Ekaa-Dasho-Dhyaayah 123

support mahisvarupa of material world. Oh Mother who exists as apaam-svarupa intrinsic in water. You alone shape structure in all. We are all thankful. 5. tvam vaishnavi shaktir anantaviryaa vishvasya bijam paramaasi maayaa sammohitam devi samastam etat tvam vai prasannaa bhuvi mukti hetuh You are anatavirya of Awareness and vaishnavi of Consciusness which pervades everything. You are vishvasyabijam ñ the Infinite seed of Universe as well as paramaasi maya causing limitation. You are sammohitam ñ the cause of both delusory-attachments and grace for liberation. 6. vidyaah samastaastava devi bhedaah striyah samastaah sakalaa jagatsu tvayaikayaa purita mambayaitat kaa te stutih stavya paraa paroktih All that is knowable is through Your powers of distinction: the One in Many. All women in this worldís mirror are Your maternal capacities and qualities. You alone fill this world. To You we sing this Chhandi of praise. It is, however, impossible to sing about Your glories ñ because your nature is of he primary germ and is also secondarily its expression. 7. sarva bhutaa yadaa devi svarga mukti radaayini tvam stutaa stuyate kaa vaa bhavantu paramoktayah Oh Mother Universe, who grants heaven and liberation. You are expression of Existence itself in all beings. Having praised You, what more is there to be said. 8. sarvasya buddhirupena janasya hrdi samsthite svargaa pavargade devi narayani namostute You are Intelligence in every heart. You expose heavenly Awareness in each. We bow to You. 9. kalaakaashthaadi rupena parinaama pradaayini vishvasyo paratau shakte narayani namostute You take the form of divisible Time. You bring change. You who is the Energy which survives dissolution of Universe, we bow to You. 10. sarva mangala maangalye shive sarvaartha saadhike sharanye tryambake gauri narayani namostute You who are favorable in auspiciousness, You are also excellence in all goodness. You are refuge and mother of all the three worlds. You split up of Time and bring about transformation. You are light of Awareness and exposer of Consciousness. We bow to You. 11. shrishti sthiti vinaashaanaam shakti bhute sanaatani gunaashraye gunamaye narayani namostute You are creativity, preservation and dissolution of Existence. You are Natureís 124 The Cosmic Connection

qualities (gunas) - We bow to You. 12. sharanaagata dinaarta paritraana paraayane sarva syaartti hare devi narayani namostute You are intent on saving the dejected and distressed, helpless and confused and they all take refuge under You. You save them anyway. We bow to You. 13. hamsayukta vimaanasthe brahmaani rupa dhaarini kaushaambhahk sharike devi narayani namostute Taking Brahmaaniís form You are seated on a chariot yoked by swans of breath- control. You sprinkle holy water on sanctified kusha grass to expose Awareness - We bow to You. 14. trishula chandraahi dhare mahaa vrshabha vaahini maaheshvarishva rupena narayani namostute You are Maheshvari, the energy of seers, who display a trident of Unity, moon of Devotion, serpents of Energy and are mounted on a bull of Discipline. To You who exposes Awareness, we bow to You. 15. mayuraa kukkutavrte mahaashakti dharenaghe kaumaarirupa samsthaane narayani namonstute You are Kaumari and take the appearance of Purity. You are with a rooster of Regularity, and peacock of Beauty. You wield great energy. You who exposes Awareness, we bow to You. 16. shankha chakra gadaa shaarnga grhita paramaayudhe prasida vaishnavi rupe narayani namostute You are all pervading Consciousness of Vaishnavi. You who becomes Energy- of-Awareness, carry a conch of Aum-vibrations, a club of Articulation, a discus of revolving-Time and a bow of Determination, We bow to You who exposes Awareness. 17. grhitogra mahaachakre damshroddhrta vasumdhare varaaha-rupini shive narayani namostute You are Varaha desirous of union. You raised Mother Earth on Your tusk through perseverance. You wield the discus of Time for the sake of Good ... We bow to You. 18. nrsimha rupenogrena hantum daityaan krtodyame trailokya traana sahite narayani namostute You take the form of Narasimha for courage and fortitude, You who are engaged in slaying thoughts and protecting the three worlds. You expose Awareness. We bow to You. 19. kiritini mahaavajre sahasra nayanoj jvale vrtra praana hare chaindri narayani namostute Aindri who is consort of Indra who owns a crown, thunderbolt of Illumination, and a thousand-eyes. You ended the life of confused Vrita Confusion, and Atha Ekaa-Dasho-Dhyaayah 125

exposed Awareness. We bow to You. 20. shivaduti svarupena hata daitya mahaabale ghorarupe mahaaraave narayani namostute Oh Shivaduti who became emissary of Consciousness and conquered many armies of fearful thoughts, we bow to You. 21. damshtraa karaalavadane shiro maalaa vibhushane chaamunde munda mathane narayani namostute You who is Chamundi who displays of heads of evil thoughts, You crushed Chanda and Munda who flaunted desire, passion and anger, we bow to You, who expose Awareness. 22. lakshmi lajje mahaa vidye shaddhe pushti svadhe dhruve mahaaraatri mahaamaaye narayani namostute To Lakshmi of true wealth, modesty [lajje], supreme knowledge [mahavidye], faith [shaddhe], nourishment [pushti], and [svadha] self-sustenance, constancy, and night-of-ignorance, we bow to You, who exposes Awareness. 23. medhe sarasvati vare bhuti baabhravi taamasi niyate tvam prasideshe narayani namostute You Sarasvati, with an intellect of Love, spirit of all pervasive Knowledge, and best of all Existence, You who are of nature Unknowable, and fully restrained. Be pleased for we bow to You, who exposes Awareness. 24. sarva svarupe sarveshe sarva shakti samanvite bhayebhyastraahi no devi durge devi namostute You who are of Intrinsic Nature [dharma] in everything, and supreme Energy and Substratum of all, save us from making errors and remove all our fears and difficulties, we bow to You. 25. etatte vadanam saumyam lochana trayabhushitam paatu nah sarva bhitibhyah kaataayani namostute May this beautiful three eyed face of Katyayani always protect us from fear. We bow to You. 26. jvaalaakaraala matyugram asheshaasura sudanam trishulam paatu no bhiter bhadrakaali namostute Oh Bhadrakali with Your trident of fire-like and intense brilliance please protect us from fear. We bow to You. 27. hinasti daitya tejaamsi svanenaa purya yaa jagat saa ghantaa paatu no devi paapebhyo nah sutaaniva You whose pranavic sound supports the whole displayed Universe, and destroys subsratum powers of thoughts, protect us from their evil. We seek your maternal protection and we bow to You. 28. asuraasrg vasaapanka char chitaste karoj jvalah shubhaaya khadgo bhavatu chandike tvaam nataa vayam 126 The Cosmic Connection

May the brilliant sword of worship in Your hand, smeared with life (blood) and luxury (fat) of thoughts, act for our benefit in sadhana. Oh, Chhandi we bow to You. 29. rogaana sheshaa napahamsi tushtaa rushtaa tu kaamaan sakalaan abhishtaan tvam aashritaanaam na vipannaraanaam tvamaashritaa hyaashrayataam prayaanti When You are pleased You destroy all weaknesses. When displeased, You frustrate all desires. No calamity befalls those who take refuge in You. Those who take refuge in You become sanctuary to others. 30. etat krtam yat kadanam tvayaadya dharma dvishaam devi mahaasuraanaam rupairanekair bahudhaatma murtim krtvaambike tat prakaroti kaanyaa Who else could slaughter negative thoughts which are enemies of Truth and Wisdom? Only You were able, by manifesting as Ambika Mother-of-Universe with many forceful abilities. 31. vidyaasu shastreshu vivekadi pesh vaadyeshu vaakyeshu cha kaa tvadanyaa mamatva garte timahaandha kaare vibhraamaya tye tada tiva vishvam Who other than You is spoken of in debates of sciences, and knowledge of scriptures? Who else but You is the substratum in all sound? Who else but You is discrimination and allow understanding. You commit this Universe into a swirling darkness of Me and Mine. 32. rakshaami yatro gravishaash chanaagaa yatraarayo dasyu balaani yatra daavaanalo yatra tathaabdhi madhye tatra sthitaa tvam paripaasi vishvam Whenever the Universe is plagued by demons of confused thoughts spewing satanic poison, or wherever foes and thieves cause confusion because of possessiveness, You stand in the sea, there to save the Universe from wayward thoughts. 33. visheshvari tvam paripaasi vishvam vishvaatmikaa dhaarayasiti vishvam vishvesha vandyaa bhavati bhavanti vishvaashrayaa ye tvayi bhakti namraah Not only are You the Sovereign of the Universe, but also the Soul of Universe, to Support and Protect. You are worthy of adoration of those who take refuge in You and end becoming refuge to others. Atha Ekaa-Dasho-Dhyaayah 127

34. devi prasida paripaalaya noribhiter nityam yathaasura vadhaada dhunaiva sadyah paapaani sarva jaga-taam prashamam nayaashu utpaatapaaka janitaamsh cha mahopasargaan Oh Mother be gracious and always protecting from wayward and negative thoughts. Save us from the wrath of fearful thoughts. Remove evil and calamities that arise from evil thoughts causing confusion and disturbances. 35. pranataanaam prasida tvam devi vishvaarti haarini trailokya vaasinaa midye lokaanaam varadaa bhava Oh Ambika, be gracious to those who adore You. You are worthy of adoration from inhabitants of the three worlds. Grant us a godsend for protection of this Universe. 36. devi uvaacha The devi said: 37. varadaaham suraaganaa varam yanmana sech chatha tam vrnu dhvam prayach chaami jagataam upakaarakam ìOh devas of positive thoughts, I bless you with My promise. Whatever your minds desire that benefits this Universe, I will grant you that wish.î 38. devaa-uvaacha Devas of positive thoughts said: 39. sarvaa baadhaa prashamanam trailokyasya akhileshvari evameva tvayaa kaaryam asmad vairi vinaashanam ìOh Mother, end disturbances in all three worlds resulting from negative thoughts. Also please remove all hostile thoughts in us as well.î 40. devi uvaacha The devi said: 41. vaivas vatentare praapte ashtaa vimshatime yuge shumbho nishumbhash chaivaanyaa vutpatsyete mahaasurau ìIn the fourteenth part of the Creatorís day which is ruled by universal Light- of-Consciousness, in its twenty-eighth period of My expression in four Yugas, Two great thoughts Conceit Shumbha and Self-Devaluating Nishumbha will once more become obvious. 42. nanda gopa grhe jaataa yashodaa garbha sambhavaa tatastau naashayishyaami vindhyaachala nivaasini Then will be born through Yashodaís womb in Nandaís home for both welfare and sport. I will remain in the Vindhya mountains of Knowledge. I shall display again to slay these demons. 43. punar apyatirau drena rupena prthvitale avatirya hanishyaami vaipr achittaamstu daanavaan 128 The Cosmic Connection

Again I shall reincarnate in a ferocious form to kill confused beings who are decendants of agitated Viprachitta. 44. bhakshayan tyashcha tanugraan vaiprachit taan mahaasuraan raktaa dantaa bhavishyanti daadimi kusumopamaah And when I devour Viprachitta and agitated thoughts, My teeth will turn red as a pomegranate flower. 45. tato maam devataah svarge martyaloke cha maanavaah stuvanto vyaaharish yanti satatam rakta dantikaam Then devas in heavens will call and sing My praise about She with Red teeth - Raktadanti. 46. bhuyashcha shatavaarshi kyaamanaa vrshtyaa manambhasi munibhih samstutaa bhumau sambhavish yaamya yonijaa When the rains stop for one hundred years this earth will thirst for water. Then, I will be propitiated by men of wisdom. I shall display again, but this time I will not take birth in any womb. 47. tatah shatena netraanaam nirikshi shyaami yanmunim kirta yishyanti manujaah shataakshi miti maam tatah I shall look at all men of wisdom with a hundred eyes. Descendants of men of Wisdom shall call Me Shataakshi of a hundred eyes. 48. tato hamakhilam lokam aatmadeha samud bhavaih bharishyaami suraah shaakair aavrshteh praanadhaara kaih Then, I shall nourish earth and preserve all living beings with the edible plants grown on My visible body until the rains come. 49. shaakam bhariti vikhyaatim tadaa yaasyaamya ham bhuvi tatraiva cha vadhishyaami durgamaakhyam mahaasuram During that period, I shall be adored as Shaakaambari who nourishes with plant- life. Then I shall slay Durgama ñ the great thought unattainable and impossible. 50. durgaa deviti vikhyaatam tanme naama bhavishyati punash chaaham yadaa bhimam rupam krtvaa himaachale Then my name will be Durga who removes difficulties. I will once again, assume a fearful form to protect men of wisdom living in the Himalayas. 51. rakshaamsi bhakshayi shyaami muninaam traana kaaranaat tadaa maam munayah sarve stoshyan tyaa namra murtayah I will devour confusional thoughts that injure wise mortals who praise My displayed Image. 52. bhimaa deviti vikhyaatam tan-me naama bhavishyati yad aarunaa khyas trai lokye mahaabaa dhaam karishyati During that period, when I wreak havoc in the three worlds. As fearful Bhimadevi I will destroy perplexed thoughts who oppress the world. Atha Ekaa-Dasho-Dhyaayah 129

53. tadaaham bhraamaram rupam krtvaa samkhyeya shatpadam trailokyasya hitaarthaaya vadhishyaami mahaasuram Then, I shall take the form of Bhraamari who is Many bees with six legs, and I shall slay all negative thoughts for the good of the Universe. 54. bhraamariti cha maam lokaastadaa stoshyanti sarvatah ittham yadaa yadaa baadhaa daanavotthaa bhavishyati It is then that positive thoughts will praise me as Bhraamari - bee-like in Nature. 55. tadaa tadaa vatiryaa ham karishyaamyari samkshayam Thus whenever oppression arises from confused thoughts, I shall manifest to destroy foes. iti shri markandeya purane saavarnike manvantare devi maahaatmye naaraayani stutir naam ekaadasho dhyaayaha This ends Chapter Eleven of Devi Mahatmayam. called the ëHymn to Narayanií

By Swami Shivananda Feeling joyful the Asuras are destroyed at last, Devas, met with Katyayani Devi and praised Her,îO Devi who is Destroyer of woes, be pleased with our thanks. O Mother who controls the Universe, protect this world which is support for this Universe. Though One, You appear as Many in this world. You are water and atoms of elements in Space and Time. You remain hidden because of Vishnumaya. You are cause for both bondage and liberation. All Knowledge is Your form. All women are You who is Mother of All. This is filled by You alone. You are Intelligence in all men. You assign both heaven - svarga and liberation - moksha. You are Time, Space and its Cause. You are blessed refuge of the distressed Narayani. Greetings to the destroyer of all difficulty faced by those devoted and take refuge in You. You are Brahmani with the Kamandalu, sitting on swans. You are Mahesvari with trident, moon and serpents and sitting on a bull. You are Kaumari with Mahasakti, sitting on a peacock. You are Vaishnavi with shankha, chakra, gada, saranga, and various great astras. Salutations to Indrani, who is sitting on an elephant, with Vajra in hand. Narayani You are sometimes the dreadful Narasimha and at other times You are Varaha with ferocious tusks. Salutations to Your various forms as Kali and Sivadooti, Lakshmi, Sarasvati and Durga - O Narayani, greetings to You. May Your trishula, chakra, , conch, and sword, which destroyed Chanda, Munda, Shumbha, Nishumbha and other Rakshasas, protect us. O Devi destroy all disease. Grant blessings when pleased. Give refuge wherever it is wanted. Wherever there are evil qualities, or unrighteous forces, there manifest Yourself and destroy them. The Devi said, ìI am giver of windfalls O Devas. Ask Me of any godsend. I shall give it to you.î The Devas said, ìO Devi, You have done everything. May our enemies in sadhana be destroyed.î Devi replied, ìIn Vaivasvata Manvantara during the twenty-eighth Dvapara Yuga, 130 The Cosmic Connection

I shall be born in the house of Nandagopal in Yasodaís womb and destroy Shumbha and Nishumbha. Once more I will be born again to destroy enemies from my home in the Vindhya mountains. I will take a dread≠ful form and kill all wicked-minded rakshasas. I will eat them and drink their blood. My teeth will become red and gods will call be ëRaktadantikaí (Red-toothed).î ìAgain I will be invoked by rishis when there will be a great famine and earth will be without rain, for a hundred years. I will then be reborn to relieve their distress. I will look at them with one hundred eyes. They will name me as ëShataksheeí (hundred-eyed).î ìI will then feed the whole world with corn and greens. Then I will be called ëSakambhareeí (stuffing with corn).î ìThere I shall destroy a rakshasa called Durgama. I will be called ëDurgadevií.î ìOnce again when I assume a terrible form in the Himalayas I will devour rakshasas to protect the rishis. I shall be called as ëBheemadevií the terrible.î ìWhen a rakshas Aruna starts tormenting people of the world, I shall take the form of a fearful Bee and destroy him. Then I will be worshipped in the world as ëBhramareeí (Bee).î ìIn this manner whenever there is trouble anywhere and up-cropping of demons, I shall manifest and bring peace to the earth.î 12. Atha Dvaa-Dasho Dhyaayah

Devi Mahatmya combines earlier Vedic theologies, growing Upanishadic philosophies and mounting tantric cultures into Shaktism. Ego, ignorance, and desire are demons that bind the soul through the illusion of maya. Mother Shakti herself binds Man and frees the imprisoned individual. Devi is focused on with concentration, love, and self-dissolving absorption. Spiritual journey focuses on the reality of Time, Space, Atom and Cause, and freeing oneself from the karmic cycle of Birth nd Death. The Great Plan and Pact between Man and Maya dhyanam Meditating: 1. devi uvaacha The devi continued: 2. ebhih stavaish cha maam nityam stoshyate yah samaahitah tasyaaham sakalaam baadhaam naashayish yaamya samshayam Whoever constantly recites these hymns of praise with a concentrated mind, I shall undoubtedly stop his or her every difficulty. 3. madhu kaitabha naasham cha mahishaasura ghaatanam kirtayi shyanti ye tadvad vadham shumbha nishumbhayoh Whoever sings the story of destruction of Madhu-of-Greed, Kaitabh-of- Scarceness, the slaughter of Ego-Mahishaasura, and the slaying of Sumbha-of- Conceit and Nishumbha-of- Self-Devaluation 4. ashtamyaam cha chatur dashyam navamyaam chaika chetasah shroshyanti chaiva ye bhaktyaa mama maahaat myamut tamam Whoever with single-pointed attention and devotion listens to this on the eighteenth, fourteenth, and ninth days of the lunar fortnight, 5. na teshaam dushkrtam kinchid dushkrtothaa na chaapadah bhavishyati na daaridryam na chaiveshta viyojanam To them nothing unfortunate will happen. Nor will misfortunes affect them from inauspicious events. They will not suffer poverty or separation from loved ones. 6. shatruto na bhayam tasya dasyuto vaa na raajatah na shastraana latoyau ghaat kadaachitsam bhavishyati They will have no cause for fear from enemies, thieves or cruel leaders. No

131 132 The Cosmic Connection

weapon, fire or flood will ever harm them. 7. tasmaan mamai tanmaahaat myam pathitavyam samaahitaih shrotavyam cha sadaa bhaktyaa param svastyaya nam hi tat This saga of My glories should be recited with care and attention. It should be constantly listened to with devotion. It is oneís path to Self-realization. 8. apa sargaana sheshaamstu mahaamaari samudbha vaan tathaa trividham utpaatam maahaat myam shama yenmama May this hymn bring peace and quell all sufferings originating from physical, mental or heavenly origins (bhu; bhuvah; svaha). 9. yatraitat pathyate samyan nityamaaya tane mama sadaa na tadvi mokshyaami saamnidhyam tatra me sthitam I will never abandon places where this hymn is well recited. My presence will always remain there. 10. bali pradaane pujaayaam agnikaarye mahotsave sarvam mamai tachcharita muchchaaryam shraavyam evacha When worshipful sacrifices are offered in fires of havans, or even at festive occasions, the entire mantra of My glories and deeds should be recited and listened to with utmost care... 11. jaanataa jaanataa vaapi bali pujam tathaa krtaam pratich chishyaa myaham prityaa vahni homam tathaa krtam I accept all acts of love and worship, and offerings into this fire, whether the act performed is with or without understanding. 12. sharat kaale mahaa pujaa kriyate yaa cha vaarshiki tasyaam mamai tan maahaat myam shrutvaa bhakti samanvitah During the yearly autumnal season, this chant about My glories should be recited and listened to, with definitive devotion. 13. sarvaa baadhaa vinir mukto dhanadhaanya sutaanvitah manushyo matprasaadena bhavishyati na samshayah Through My grace, Man is delivered from doubts, misfortunes, and blessed with prosperity, children and freedom from hunger. 14. shrutvaa mamaitan maahaat myam tathaa chotpatta yah shubhaah paraa kramam cha yuddheshu jaayate nirbhayah pumaan Listeners of this presentation about My glories and My various manifestations will become fearless. Those who hear about My battles against negative thoughts will naturally become fearless and do the same. 15. ripavah samksha yam yaanti kalyaanam chopapad yate nandate cha kulam pumsaam maahaatmyam mama shrnvataam For those who listen to My glories, there will be no fear of enemies who are intended to perish anyway. They will have the pleasure of serving Me and My manifestation in matters of welfare. Atha Dvaa-Dasho Dhyaayah 133

16. shaanti karmani sarvatra tathaa duhsvapna darshane graham pidaasu chograasu maahaat myam shrnu yaan mama Therefore, let My glories be heard everywhere and at any time, whether they be functions of pleasure, for peace, after bad dreams or to relieve adverse effects of planetary positions. 17. apasar gaah shamam yaanti graham pidaashcha daarunaah Duhsvap nam cha nr bhirdr shtam susvapna mupa jaayate By reciting the Chhandi, evil forces subside and unfavourable influence of bad dreams and adverse influence of planets are nullified. 18. baala grahaabhi bhutaanaam baalaanaam shaanti kaarakam samghaata bhede cha nrnaam maitri karanam uttamam Children under adverse sway of planetary and astral rule become peaceful. It promotes cordiality and friendship in divided communities and families. 19. durvrttaa naamashe shaanaam balahaani karam param rakshobhuta pishaachaa naam pathanaa deva naashanam This mantra exterminates powers of wishers of wickedness. All astral beings of evil nature are destroyed by this hymn. 20. sarvam mamaitan maahaatmyam mama sannidhi kaarakam pashupushp aarghya dhupaish cha gandha pipais tathot tamaih Narration of My glories makes My presence obvious among listeners. I draw great satisfaction from annual autumnal recitation of this hymn. I accept all offerings of animals, flowers, objects of value, incense, and light, and.... 21. vipraanaam bhojanair hommaih prok shaaniyaira harnisham anyaish cha vividhair bhogaih pradaanair vatsarena yaa I accept feeding of the wise (munis), fire offerings, daily sprinkling of consecrated waters, and offerings of objects of enjoyment. 22. pritirme kriyate saasmin sukrt sucharite shrute shrutam harati paapaani tathaa rogyam prayach chati I get the same satisfaction, even if you listen just once to this story. Hearing it removes sin, and grants the listener with perfect health, free from weaknesses. 23. rakshaam karoti bhutebhyo janma naam kirtanam mama yuddheshu charitam yanme dushta daitya nibar hanam Men who sing praise of My different comings are protected from evil. This narration of My heroic performances in battle deliver all bewilderment without venom. 24. tasmin chrute vairi krtam bhayam pumsaam na jaayate yushmaabhih stutayo yaashcha yaashcha brahmarshi bhih krtaah Those who listen to this mantra become unafraid of enemies. Whether this hymn of praise is uttered by creative rajasic, by sattvic godly sages, or by the Creator Brahma Himself, 134 The Cosmic Connection

25. brahmanaa cha krtaastaastu prayach chanti shubhaam matim aranye praantare vaapi daavaagni parivaari tah It is My Creative Energy that recites the hymn. It grants to chanter and listener special harmonious thoughts - whether lost in a forest, or surrounded by a raging fire. 26. dasyu bhirvaa vrtah shunye grhito vaapi shatrubhih simha vyaaghraanu yaato vaa vane vaa vanahastibhih When surrounded by assailants in lonely places, when captured by enemies, if harassed by wild animals of the forest... 27. raajnaa kruddhena chaajnapto vadhyo bandha gatopi vaa aaghurnito vaa vaatena sthitah pote mahaarnave When punished or imprisoned by laws of rulers; or when condemned to death; or if tossed about in a boat in a storm on vast seas. 28. patatsu chaapi shastreshu samgraame bhrsha daarune sarvaabaa dhaasu ghoraasu vedanaa bhyar ditto pivaa While in battle under heavy fire from weapons. Or in terrible moments of affliction or distress. 29. smaran mamaitach charitam naro muchyeta sankataat mama prabhaa vaat simhaa dyaa dasyavo vairinas tatha If you remember My glory, men shall be freed from the anguish of calamities. By My power, lions, thieves, and enemies flee as well... 30. duraadeva palaayante smarataash chartam mama From those who remember this narration of My glory. 31. rishir uvaacha The rishi said: 32. ityuktvaa saa bhagavati chandikaa chanda vikramaa Thus spoke, Chhandika who destroys all thoughts, and controls intense ferocity of intent. 33. pashyataam eva devaanaam ta trai vaan dhiyata tepi devaa niraatan kaah svaadhikaa raan yathaa puraa She then vanished from that spot, where all godly rajasic positive thoughts and Indra living in he domain of the pure were gazing at Her. Their enemies of slack tamasic thoughts were slain. Positive thoughts on spiritual journeys were freed from disruptions of unsteady minds. 34. yagna bhaaga bhujah sarve chakur viniha taarayah daityash cha devyaa nihate shumbhe deva ripau yudhi Positive creative gods began enjoying the results of their devotion and sacrifices. They started exercising godly influence in their own affairs. 35. jagad vidh vamsini tasmin mahogre tulavik rame nishumbhe cha mahaavirye sheshaah paataala maayayuh Atha Dvaa-Dasho Dhyaayah 135

When afflictors of the world, taking forms of fierce Conceited Shumbha and Self-Devaluating Nishumbha are slain, residual pessimism enter the lower worlds of Pataala. 36. evam bhagavati devi saa nityaapi punah punah sambhuya karute bhupa jagatah pari paalanam Thus spoke Mother Bhagavati, O King. Although She is unmanifest and eternal, She reveals and for protection of Her worlds. 37. tayaitan mohyate vishvam saiva vishvam prasuyate saa yaachitaa cha vignaanam tushtaa rd dhim prayach chati The Universe is deluded by Her power of Maya. It is She who creates this Universe. Satisfied by adoration of creative rajasic godly minds about Her beauteous manifestation, She grants wisdom and perfection to saintly sattvic minds of harmony. 38. vyaaptam tayaitat sakalam brahmaandam manujeshvara mahaa kaalyaa mahaakaale mahaamaari svarupayaa The entire Universe is pervaded by Her whose Intrinsic Nature gunas is Energy of Mahakali who removes darkness. It is also Her Energy in Mahamari who dissolves the mirage of expression. 39. saiva kaale mahaamaari saiva shrishtir bhavatyajaa sthitim karoti bhutaanaam saiva kaale sanaatani Sometimes She is Mahamari who destroys maya. Sometimes She is Shrishtir - Unborn. Sometimes She is Sthiti - Unborn Existence supporting Creation. Sometimes She is Sanatatani Eternally preserving all things. 40. bhava kaale nrnaam saiva lakshmir vrddhipradaa grhe saiva bhaave tathaa lakshmir vinaashaayo pajaayate During times of welfare and prosperity, She is Lakshmi granting Real-Wealth. In times of misfortune, She becomes Vinashini and foreshadows misfortune and ruin. 41. stutaa sampujitaa pushpair gandhaadi bhis tathaa dadaati vittam putraamsh cha matim dharme gatim shubhaam When praised and worshipped with flowers, incense, perfume and other offerings, She gives understanding, wealth, progeny and a beautiful mind with a tendency to virtue, wisdom and true prosperity. iti shri markandeya purane saavarnike manvantare devi mahaatmye phalastutir naam dvaadasho dhyaayaha Thus ends the Twelfth Chapter of the Chandi called the ëMerits of Reciting the Chandií. 136 The Cosmic Connection

By Swami Shivananda Devi again said, ìWhoever sings My praise with these verses, I shall look to their welfare and remove all miseries. Whoever sings My glories about destroying Madhu and Kaitabha, Sumbha and Nisumbha, and whoever hears these stories, to them there will be no difficulty. Proverty and fear of enemies will stay faraway. Weapons, fire or rain will not harm them. This story is to be read and re-read to anyone and everyone. It is to be heard in return for great blessings. Sins will be shattered and soothed by singing My glories. Stories of my glory need to be heard and worshipped with devotion, I am around where this is recited, alwaysî. ìAfter the rains this mantra is to be chanted with devotion, for it is dear to Me. During its recital when heard with faith and devotion, seekers of liberation become spiritually wealthy and peaceful. Man gains victory in battles against indulgences. It destroys enemies of righteous living. There is blessedness and peace everywhere. The family that sings My glories rejoices in peace and plenty. Disease and agony I destroy. Bad dreams do not trouble my devotee with suffering. After performing puja to Me, with flowers, sandalwood, etc., seekers must be fed. Offering or is performed with My mantra. Magnificence and wealth should be given in charity. There should be rejoicing during the performance.î Speaking thus, Devi vanished. Devas ruled the heavens happily, and received sacrificial offerings. Asuras, seeing their power curbed ran to the lower regions and lived a miserable life of restlessness and grief. Devi becomes obvious now and then to settle virtue in lands for protecting Her devotees. She deludes the whole world, controls it, pervades it, creates it and dissolves it. She becomes cause of sorrow and happiness too. 13. Atha Trayo-Dasho-Dhyaa-Yah

There are four famous Hymns in Devi Mahatmayam Brahma-stuti also known as Tantrik Ratri Suktam Chapter 1 is sung in the first episode, Brahma praises Yogi Nidra, asking her withdrawal from Vishnu so he can slay Madhu and Kaitaba. Sakradi-stuti in Chapter 4 is chanted at the end of second episode, after Chhandi defeats the demon Mahishasura and his army. Gods with Indra praise her. Ya Devi Praise also known as Aparajita-stuti or Tantrik Devi Suktam is in Chapter 5. At the start of the third episode, when beleaguered gods recall the Goddessís promise to help them, they head to Mount Himavan and there offer a hymn to the Her. Narayani-stuti of Chapter 11 is chanted by Devas at the conclusion of the third episode, after the Goddess has disposed of Sumbha and Nisumbha. dhyaanam Meditating: 1. rishir uvaacha The rishi said: 2. etatte kathitam bhupa devi maahaatmyam uttamam evam prabhaava saa devi yayedam dhaaryate jagat Oh King I have told you the story of Mother Natureís glory. So great is Her power that She sustains the three worlds. 3. vidyaa tathaiva kriyate bhagavad vishnu maayayaa tayaa tvamesha vaisyashcha tathaivaanye vivekinah She gives you true Knowledge about Her own perceivable manifestation which is permeated by Awareness. She is also the delusive power of Vishnu - Maya. 4. mohyante mohitaashchaiva mohamashyanti chaapare taamupaihi mahaaraaja sharanam parameshvarim It is She who deludes even men of discrimination both in the past and will continue to do so in the future. Oh King, take refuge in Her, who is most Supreme-Ruler. 5. aaraadhitaa saiva nrnaam bhoga svargaa pavargadaa When She is pleased, She grants Man with pleasures of earth and heaven. It is She who grants final release from transmigration.

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6. markandeya uvaacha Maarkandeya said: 7. iti tasya vachah shrutvaa surathah sa naraadhipah Thus, King Surath heard this story from a great sage, about battles gods made through transgressions causing estrangement in existence. 8. pranipatya mahaabhaagam tamrshim sham sitavratam nirvinno timamatvena raajyaa paharanena cha The King who was previously despondent over his egoistic attachment for his lost kingdom, bowed to Rishi. 9. jagaama sadyas tapase sa cha vaishyo mahaamune samdarshan aartham ambaayaa nadi pulina samsthi tah Both king and merchant stationed themselves on the sandbanks of a river. They performed disciplined meditation and austerities. They wanted intuitive vision of Ambika who Removes all Difficulties. 10. sa cha tapastepe devi suktam param japan tau tasmin puline devyaah krtvaa murtim mahimayim They recited and praised Her with Devi Suktam while in meditation. They made an earthen image of the Mother on sands of the riverbank. 11. arhanaam chakratusta syaah pushpa dhupaagni tarpanaih niraahaa rau yataahaarau tanmanaskau samaa hitau They worshipped Her with flowers, incense, fire, and water. At first, they abstained from food, then they restrained all intake of food. 12. dadatustau balim chaiva nijagaatraa srgukshi tam evam samaaraa dhayatos tribhir varshir yataatmanoh They offered Her sprinklings of their own blood in fires of worship. Having gained control of their minds in concentration, they thus propitiated Her for three years. 13. paritushtaa jagad dhaatri pratyak shampraaha chandikaa Pleased with them Chhandika who Tears apart Thought appeared to them in a perceivable form. 14. devi-uvaacha The devi said: 15. yat praarthyate tvayaa bhupa tvayaa cha kulanandana mata stat praapyataam sarvam paritushtaa dadaami tat Oh King and merchant, you are both the origin of happiness for your families. You have now arrived at the bliss of meditation. I am satisfied and will give you whatever you ask for: 16. markandeya uvaacha Markandeya said: Atha Trayo-Dasho-Dhyaa-Yah 139

17. tato vavre nrpo raajyam avibhram shyanyajan mani atraiva cha nijam raajyam hata shatru balam balaat Then, the king chose an Imperishable kingdom of Heaven for his next life. He also asked for the return of his present kingdom which was wrenched away from him by his enemies. 18. s-pi vaishyas tato gyaanam vavre nirvin namaanasah mametya hamiti praajnah sanga vichyuti kaarakam Then, the wise merchant whose mind was filled with indifference to worldly objects, asked for Knowledge that removes attachments of egotism of possessions. 19. devi uvaacha The devi said: 20. sval pairaho bhir nrpate svam raajyam praapsyate bhavaan Oh king, within a few days your kingdom will be returned to you. 21. hatvaa ripunas khalitam tava tatra bhavishyati After slaying your enemies, you will get back the throne. 22. mrtashcha bhuyah sampraapya janma devaad viva svatah After your death you will be reborn from Lord Sun. 23. saavarniko naama manur bhavaan bhuvi bhavishyati You will be reborn on earth as Manu Saavarni, as expression of wisdom to whom belong all colors, tribes and castes. 24. vaishyavarya tvayaa yashcha varosmatto bhivaan chitah And you, O Merchant, I grant you the wish you desire from Me. 25. tam prayachchaami samsidhdhyai tava gyaanam bhavishyati I place on you, O Merchant, the everlasting outcome of the highest Wisdom which will allow you liberation from transmigration through Self-realisation. 26. maarkandeya uvaacha Markandeya said: 27. iti dattvaa tayordevi yathaa bhilashitam varam Having thus granted wishes of each oneís desires, 28. babhuvaantar hitaa sadyo bhaktyaa taabhyaama bhishtutaa evam devyaa varam labdhvaa suratha kshatriyar shabhah She vanished as they continued to praise Her in devotion. They both arrived at their desires from the Mother. They now embody godly warrior like helpful thought. 29. suryaaj janma samaasaadya saavarnir bhavitaa manuh They will be reborn from Light of Wisdom as an expressions of wisdom. The King will be Manu and with his wife Suvarna. They will righteously rule earth. 30. evam devyaa varam labdhvaa surathah kshatri yarshabhah suryaaj janma samaasaadya saavarnir bhavitaa manuh 140 The Cosmic Connection

Having received blessings from the Mother-of-Universe, King of Positive thoughts is promised a birth from the Light-of-Wisdom. As display of Wisdom - the Eighth Manu, who will be ruler of men of all colors, tribes, and castes. iti shri markandeya purane saavarnike manvantare devimahaathmye surata vaishyor varapradhaana naam trayodasho dhyaayaha shri saptasati devi mahaatmyam samaapth Here ends the Chandi of 700 verses. aum tat sat aum

By Swami Shivananda And the sage said: Thus I have recounted the entire story of glories of Devi and Her dealings with unrighteousness. She is Vidya - the Intelligence Principle of Vishnu; power or Shakti and Illusion or Maya. She is Ignorance or Avidya, but is above these too. By Her power she deluded both King and Vaishya and others. Take refuge in this Devi Maya. She is giver of pleasure, heaven or svarga and Liberation through moksha ñ all at the same time. Hearing these words from the rishi, King Suratha was moved and immediately started to move deeper into the dense forests to perform rigorous penance. Vaishya followed him and began on the riverbank where he chanted Devi Suktam continuously. They both wanted a vision of Devi to get back their lost kingdom and wealth. They prepared a mud image of Devi to worship Her in sixteen forms of worship. They both fasted and concentrated on the superb form of Devi. After three years of meticulous penance Devi spoke to them, ìO king! Ask of me whatever you wish.î The king asked for his lost king≠dom free of enemies, but the Vaishya asked Devi for Wisdom alone. Devi said, ìO king, in a few days you will regain your kingdom by conquering your enemies. After death you will be reborn through Surya (Sun) as the eighth Manu called Savarni. O Vaishya I shall give you the Wisdom you desire.î After giving them their boons the Devi vanished. Stotra Seeking Forgiveness for Commission of Offenses atha aparaadha kshamaa-pana stotram 1. na mantram no yanram tadapi cha na jaane stutimaho na chaahvaanam dhyaanam tadapi cha na jane stuitkathaa na jaane mudraaste tadapi cha na jaane vilapanam param jaane maatasva danusaranam kleshaharanam I know neither mantras or yantras, nor can I sing Your praise. I do not know how to welcome You or how to meditate in Your presence. I neither know how to sing Your glories, nor do I understand Your mystical signs or how to grieve over my ignorance. But I will keep calling You to stamp out all my difficulties. Atha Trayo-Dasho-Dhyaa-Yah 141

2. vidhera gyaanena dravina virahenaa lastayaa vidheyaa shakyatvaat tava charanayoryaa chyutirbhut tadetat kshnantavyam janani sakalod dhaarini shive kuputro jaayeta kvachidapi kumaataa na bhavati Oh Energy-of-Goodness, oh Mother-of-Universe, I do not know protocols of Your worship. I have inadequate materialistic wealth with which to serve You. I am lazy by nature and have not learned the correct way to worship You. For these reasons, whatever shortages there are in my service at Your feet, please pardon me. Forgive Your childís transgressions faultless Mother. 3. prithivyaam putraaste janani bahava santi saralaah param teshaam madhye viralataralo ham tava sutah madiyoyam tyaaga samuchita midam no tava shive kuputro jaayate kvachidapi kumaataa na bhavati You who have so many honest simple children, I belong in the category of fickleness and inconstancy of habit. Nonetheless, do not discard me, faultless Mother. 4. jagan maatar maatas tava charanasevaa na rachitaa na vaa dattam devi dravinamapi bhuyastava mayaa tathaapi tvam sneham mayi nirupamam yatprakurushe kuputro jaayete kvachidapi kumaataa na bhavati Oh Mother of Universe, I have neither yet served at Your lotus feet, nor have I offered whatever wealth I have. I am unworthy of Your love, forgive me faultless Mother. 5. pariyaktaa devaa vividhavidha sevaakulatayaa mayaa panchaa shiter adhikamapanite tu vayasi idaanim chenmaatastava yadi krpaa naapi bhavitaa niraalambo lambodara janani kam yaami sharanam Auspicious Mother, I have abandoned services to all devas while wrapped in worldly activities for 85 years. Now I am turning to You, for grace and seek refuge. 6. shvapaako jalpaako bhavati madhupaakopama giraa niraatanko ranko viharati chiram kotikanakaih tavaaparne karne vishati manu varne phalamidam janahko jaanite janani jananiyam japavidhau Excellent Mother, Your mantra has such power that even if one word of your mantra reaches the ear of a fool, and he becomes an eloquent speaker of debates that are excellent expositions. What then of those who regularly worship You according to injunctions of the scriptures? 7. chitaa bhasmaalepo garalmashanam dikpata dharo jataadhaari kanthe bhujagapati haari pashupati 142 The Cosmic Connection

kapaali bhutesho bhajati jagadishai kapadavim bhavaani tvat paani grahana paripaati phalamidam He who smears His body with ashes from funeral rites, who consumes poison, who is without clothes, who has long matted hair, who wears king of snakes, who has a cup of bone in hand, and who is Lord-of-Universe...How did Shiva become so great? He simply wedded You and reached greatness. 8. na mokshasyaa kaankshaa bhavavi bhavavaan chaapi cha na me na vigyaanaa pekshaa shashimukhi sukhechchaapi napuna atastvaam samyache janani jananam yaatu mama vai mrdaani rudraani shiva shiva bhavaaniti japata Oh Mother whose face has luster of the moon, I have neither desire for liberation nor for status.. Neither do I seek worldly knowledge nor do I want comfort. I only want to spend my life in contemplation of You. 9. naaraadhitaasi vidhinaa vividhopachaarai kim ruksha chintana parairna krtam vachobhi shaame tvameva yadi kinchana mayya naathe dhatse krpaa muchitamamba param tavaiva Oh Unknowable-One, I do not know how to worship You by scriptures which need various articles for puja. While I review my thoughts, I wonder what other mistakes I may have made. Gracious Mother, give me compassion. 10. apatsu magnah smaranam tvadiyam karomi durge karunaar naveshi naitach chathatvam mama bhaavayethaah kshudhaa trshaartaa jananim smaranti Oh Durga Reliever-of-Difficulties who is the Ocean-of-Mercy, I remember You today for I am in difficulty. I ask You to ignore my commissions and omissions. We are hungry, thirsty and confused children who call on You. 11. jagadamba vichitra matra kim paripurna karunaasti chinmayi aparaadha param paraa param na hi maataa samupekshate sutam Oh Jagadamba-Mother-of-Universe, grant Your compassion and grace on me who commits errors constantly. Please discount my flaws. 12. matsama paataki naasti paapaghni tvatsamaa na hi evam gyaantvaa mahaadevi yathaa yogyam tathaa kuru Oh Mother, there is no greater disagreeable person than me... There is no other who can purify me. Knowing that, I beg You to do what needs to be done. Chandi Arati jay chandi jai jai, jai chandi jai jai maa bhaya haarini bhava taarini x2 bhava bhaamini jai jai om jai chandi maa Oh Chandi who destroys Thought, take away my fears and light up my idea of Reality. tu hi sata chita sukhmaya shudha brahmarupaa maa satya sanaatana sundara x2 para shiva sura bhupaa om jai chandi maa You who are the essence of Truth, Awareness and Happiness and has form of pure Consciousness, in your Infinite goodness and beauty, may You rule over all. aadi anaadi anaamaya avichala avinaashi maa amala agochara x2 aja aananda raashi om jai chandi maa Your beginning is without and end or a severance. It is motionless and indestructible. At that instant You are bright, infinite, subtle, unborn and blissful. avikaara aghahaari akala kalaadhaari maa kartaa vidhi bharttaa hari x2 hara sam haara kaari om jai chandi maa Changeless, O sinless one, You created expression. You allowed it to be created by Brahma, carried by Vishnu and dissolved by Shiva. tu vidhi vadhu ramaa tu umaa mahaa maayaa maa mula prakriti vidyaa tu x2 tu janani jaayaa om jaya chandi maa You also revealed as consort of Brahma (Sarasvati), Rama (Sita) and Shiva (Uma).. You are also the measurer of Awareness as mahamaya..... You have the knowledge of original existence as mulaprakriti [essence of matter] in hiranyagarbha [causal womb]. You are the Mother who gives birth to all expressions.

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raamaa krishna tu sita braja-rani maa tu vaan chaa kalpa druma x2 haarini saba baadhaa om jaya chandi maa You are the awareness of the subtle Light which finally merges with the definitive. You are the ìdoerî in all. You are Sita, the pure white one, the queen of multitude. You are Radha, the ruler of success to reach You. You are the desire fulfilling tree, who takes away obstacle. dasha vidyaa nava durgaa naanaa shastra karaa maa ashta maa tr kaa yogini x2 nava nava rupa dharaa om jaya chandi maa You are the ten branches of Knowledge or mahavidyas... The nine relievers of difficulties in Durgas .. Eight Mothers of Union. You are the various forms the scriptures present You as. tu paradhaama nivaasini mahaa vilaasini tu maa tu hi shma shaana vihaarini x2 taandava laasini tu om jaya chandi maa You stay in the highest address. You are of the greatest beauty. You wander in cremation grounds and dance to rhythmic music. sura muni mohini saumyaa tu shobhaa dhaaraa maa viva sana vikat sarupaa x2 pralaya mayi dhaaraa om jaya chandi maa You mesmerize gods and munis with Your beauty, yet, they are all helpless when You assume the form of dissolution. tu hi sneha sudhaa-mayi tu ati gara-lama-naa maa ratna vibhu shita tu hi x2 tu hi asthi tanaa om jaya chandi maa You pervade Love and are brilliant. You are also invisible existence. mulaa dhaara nivaasini iha para sidhi prade maa kaala-titaa kaali x2 kamala tu varade om jaya chandi maa You remain in the muladhara chakra. You grant the highest attainments of this world. At an appointed time You become Kali, to remove darkness of human existence... Then You present Yourself as Kamala to grant blessings of effort and self-control. Chandi Arati 145 shakti shakti dhara tu hi nitya abheda mayi maa bheda pradarshini vaani x2 vimale vedatrayi om jaya chandi maa You are form of every Energy and eternally indistinguishable in essence. You are vibrating aum which exposes change and distinctions. You are the purity of three Vedas. hum ati dina dukhi maam vipat jaala ghere maa haim kaput ati kapati x2 para baalaka tere om jaya chandi maa Most of us spend our lives in pain, bound to misfortunes and suffering because we are negligent and insincere in our service to You. Still, you comfort us, because we are Your children. nija svabhaava vasha janani dayaa drshti kijai maa karunaa kara karunaa mayi x2 charana sharana dijai om jaya chandi maa Grant us with Your own nature. Be merciful Mother. Give us refuge at Your feet jaya chandi jaya jaya maam jaya chandi jaya jaya maa bhaya haarini bhava taarini x2 bhava bhaamini jaya jaya om jaya chandi maa O Chandi who destroys Thoughts, take away all our fears and explain Reality in us with intensity. May You be victorious. 146 The Cosmic Connection

Practical Prayers for Removal of Obstacles

1. shaapod-dhaara mantra (For removal of curses) aum hriim kliim shriim kraam kriim chandikaa dev-yai shaapanaa-shaanu-gra-ham kuru kuru svaahaa (Repeat 11 times) Aum transform, existence, increase the cause of dissolution of the gross body and causal body. O Chhandi who tears apart thoughts. Take away the curse .You and I are One. 2. ut-kii-lana mantra (For undoing the ties of vasanas) aum shriim kliim hriim sapta-shati chandike ut-kiila-nam kuru kuru svaahaa (Repeat 21 times) Aum increase, transform, all existence and by chanting the 700 verses of the Chhandi, remove the bolts of my vasanas. You and I are One. 3. mrita-sam-jivani mantra (For granting ìlifeî from death) aum hriim hriim vam vam aim aim mrta-sam-jivani vidye mrta-muthaa-payot thaa-paya kriim hriim hriim vam svaahaa (Repeat 11 times) Aum .. all existence, existence, vibrations, vibrations, wisdom, wisdom O knowledge which grants life from death, transform me into existence, all Existence as vibration .. You and I are One. 4. shaapa-vimochana mantra (For removing curses) aum shriim shriim kliim hum aum ksho-bhaya mohaya utkii-laya utkii-laya utkii-laya tham tham Aum. Increase, increase, transform and cut the ego. Erase fears of ignorance. Remove the knots of the causal state. Remove, remove, remove in devotion, devotion. Chandi Arati 147

Rosary of Thirty two Names of Durga Reliever-of-Difficulties atha durga dvaa-trim-shan-naama maalaa durga durgaarti shamani durga padvinivaarini Reliever of difficulties.who calms problems.dispeller of problematic difficulties durgamach chedini durga saadhini durga naashini One who cuts down difficulties. Performer of discipline to dispel difficulties. Destroyer of difficulties durgatod dhaarini durga nihantri durgamaapahaa Who holds the whip to difficulties. Who sends difficulties to ruin. Who measures difficulties durgamagyaanadaa durga daityaloka davaanalaa Who makes difficulties unconscious. Who destroys world of difficult thoughts durgamaa durgamaalokaa durgam aatmasvarupini Mother of difficulties. Perception of difficulties. Intrinsic nature of soul of difficulties durgamaarga pradaa durgama vidyaa durgama shritaa One who searches through difficulties. Knowledge of difficulties. Extricator from difficulties durgama gyaana samsthaanaa durga madhyaana bhaasini Continued existence of difficulties. Whose meditation remains despite difficulties. durga mohaa durgamagaa durgam artha svarupini Who deludes difficulties. Who resolves difficulties. Whose intrinsic nature is of the object of difficulties durgam aasura samhantri durgam aayudha dhaarini Annihilator of Ego difficulty. Bearer of weapons against difficulties. durgamaangi durgamataa durgamyaa durgameshvari Refiner of difficulties. Who is beyond difficulties. Accessible in difficulties. Empress of difficulties durgabhimaa durgabhaamaa durgabhaa durgadhaarini Who is terrible to difficulties. Lady of difficulties. Illuminator of difficulties. Who cuts off difficulties naamaavali mimaam yastu durgaayaa mama maanavah Whoever recites this garland of Durgaís names, pathet sarva bhayaan mukto bhavishyati na samshayah Reliever of difficulties, will free one from every fear and difficulty, without a doubt AUM Aum (recite 108 times or as many desired malas) - aum tat sat Part II

Children’s Prayer Manual 150 The Cosmic Connection Surrender to Chinmaya 151

Preface

The single and only purpose of chanting hymns and slokas is to realise the Supreme. Even an act as simple as offering flowers has deep significance. The categorically claim that having knowledge of even the elements of creation is in fact knowledge of the substratum and the Nature of Sources that link Man with Divine. Even if Sanskrit hymns and chants are not understood, the sound vibrations are so potent that they generate beneficial energies for the chanter, listener and the universe itself. Sages of vedic times divinised their daily lives through vedic hymns dedicated to secular as well as spiritual activities. Their interaction with commonplace things as sun and stars, moon and elements, and flowers and their fragrance, were all given a common thread of intuitive divine insight that delighted both their senses and the soul. Even mundane activities performed in pujas, such as bathing the deity or lighting deepa or offering flowers, were accompanied by hymns to elevate spirit of the performer and listener of the ritual. Vedic man was not a primitive ritualist. He understood the secret knowledge of earth, water, fire, air, space, sun, moon, stars, rainclouds and the unit of time. He interacted with the vast universe and burst into ecstatic praise of the Creator of such marvellous handiwork. Vedic chants have a single purpose ñ to lead us to Brahman, the only Reality. All chants have a simple meaning as well as a symbolic interpretation. A mere intellectual interpretation is helpful but divine revelations come from deep meditation and through the Lordís grace. Sages who authored them, repeatedly revealed experience that emanated from the deepest recesses of their beings. For example the Mantra Pushpam suggests Man must offer eight types of flowers. They include a vow of non-injury [ahimsa], control of all senses [indriya nigraha], compassion towards all beings [sarvabuta daya], forbearance [kshama], remaining at peace at all times [shanti], single-pointed attention of mind towards Lord [tapas], specific manner of restricting food intake [chandrayana ], Knowledge [gyana], and Truth [satyam]. Therefore, the mere offering of flowers itself is a gradual unfolding of Man. He walks towards his real nature of pure unadulterated Consciousness but understands that Mayaís Energy of Awareness his understanding. Water, fire, air are all manifestation of this One Conscious Energy [pranava ñ Om] and they are primordial source and foundation of the Universe. All these 152 The Cosmic Connection elements are used in pujas and, if meditated upon, take Man to their ultimate source and towards liberation. They make a Cosmic Connection between Man and Mother Nature. Sneh Chakraburtty 2008 Surrender to Chinmaya 153

1. Chinmayanandam Saranam Surrender to Chinmaya

Chinmayanandam Saranam Anudinam Sri Gurudeva Vedashatra Paripooritham, Bhavasagara Dharikutam Rudrakshamala Bharanam, Chandana Thilakojwalam Mandasmita Mukharavindam, Kotisoorya Prabhakaram Jnanamarga Deepikam, Bhaktajana Paripalitham Geetopadesa Sarabharitam, Prasiddha Gurunayakam Prasiddha Gurunayakam Chinmayanandam Saranam Anudinam Sri Gurudeva

I surrender to Chinmaya and meditate daily on you. You are filled with the wisdom of the Vedas You who has crossed the ocean of worldly existence, You are adorned with a Garland, and Shine with the on your forehead, Your lotus face has a soft smile. You are as bright as a million suns. You are the light on the path of wisdom. You protect your devotees. You are filled with the essence of the wisdom of the Geeta. You are the famous leader of spiritual teachers. I surrender to you Chinmaya

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2. Shlokas For Focused Concentration

1) Shree Vishnu Om Suklaam Varadharam Visnum Sashi varnam chatur bhujam. Prasanna vadanam dhyaayet Sarva vighnopa shantaye Om, I contemplate on that Vishnu, who is dressed in white, whose color is like that of the moon, who has four hands and a lustrous face for the pacification of all obstacles. 2) Shree Ganapati Om Vakratunda Mahakaaya Suryakoti Samaprabha Nirvighnam Kuru Me Deva Sarva Kaaryeshu Sarvadaa Om Shree Mahaa Ganapathaye Namah Om, You who has a twisted trunk, who is more resplendent than the sun, let no misfortune befall upon whatever I do. I prostrate to Sri Ganapati. 3) Before Studies Sarasvati Namastu bhyam Varade Kaama roopini Vidyaa rambham Karishyaami Siddir bhavatu me sadaa Om Shree Sarasvathyai Namah My prostration to Sarasvati who is the fulfiller of all my wishes. I start my studies by asking You to give me your blessings. May I achieve perfection. 4) Guru Vandana Gurur brahmaa Gurur vishnuh Gururdevo Maheshvarah Guruh saakshaat Parambrahma, Tasmai shree Namah Om Shree Sadgurubhyo Namah The Spiritual Teacher is Brahma, the Guru is Vishnu, the Guru is Lord Shiva, and the Guru is verily the Supreme Brahman. I offer salutations to that Guru. 5) Morning Prayers Karaagre vasate Lakshmi, karamoole Sarasvati Kara madhye tu Govindah, prabhaate kara darshanam

154 Shlokas for Focussed Concentration 155

On the tip of my fingers resides Goddess Lakshmi, on the base of my fingers resides Goddess Sarasvati; on the middle of my fingers is Lord Govinda ñ in this manner look at your hands with devotion. 6) Before Evening Light Shubham karoti kalyaanam Aarogyam dhana sam paadha Shatru Buddhi Vinasaaya Dipa jyotir namostute I offer my prostrations to the real Light that brings brilliance, auspiciousness, health and true wealth and possessions - for the destruction of my odious intellect. 7) Honoring Tulsi Namastulasi kalyaani Namo Vishnu priye shubh Namo moksha prasade devi Namah sampad Pradaa yini I offer my prostrations to Mother Tulasi who gives mental and physical health to seekers. I bow to the beloved of Lord Vishnu and also to the bestower of salvation and real wealth. 8) Sarasvati Prarthana Ya kundendu tushara hara dhavala ya subhra vastra vrta, Ya vina varadanda mandita kara a sveta padmasna Ya Brahma-cyuta sankara prabhrtibhih devaih sada vandita Sa mam patu Sarasvati Bhagvati nihsesa jadyapaha May Goddess Sarasvati, Who is fair like the moon and whose pure white jasmine garland is like frosty dew drops, Who is adorned with radiant white clothes and on whose beautiful palm and arm rests a veena, Whose throne is a white lotus, and who is surrounded and respected by gods, Beginning with Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Mahesh. Protect me O Mother I beseech Her to totally remove my mental laziness and physical sluggishness. 9) Shanti Mantrah Om Saha Na vavatu, Saha Nau Bhunaktu Saha Viryam Karvavahai, 156 The Cosmic Connection

Tejasvinavadhita mastu Ma Vidvishavahai Om Shantih Shantih Shantih Om, may He protect us both (teacher and the taught) May He look after us both to enjoy (the fruits of scriptural study) May we both exert together (to find the true meaning of the sacred text) May our studies be fruitful so that we acquire brilliance May we never quarrel with each other. Om Peace! Peace! Peace!

The Guru is the beginning of the universe, Yet he himself is without a beginning. The Guru is the highest deity There is none higher than the Guru.† Salutations to that Guru.†

Tvameva maataa cha pitaa tvameva Tvameva bandhushcha sakhaa tvameva; Tvameva vidyaa dravinam tvameva Tvameva sarvam mama devadeva. You are my mother and father. You are my Friend and the Love of my heart.† You are Knowledge and its Light and Fortune; You are my All.† Oh, soul of my heart! 3. Gurustotram - Salutations to the Teacher

Akhanda mandalaa kaaram Vyaaptam yena charaacharam; Tatpadam darshitam yena Tasmai shree gurave namah. Salutations to that Guru who has made it possible to realize Him Who pervades this entire universe of movable and immovable objects.

Agnaana timiraan dhasya Gnaanaa jana shalaakayaa; Chakshuru meelitam yena Tasmai shree gurave namah. Salutations to the Guru who with the collyrium-stick of knowledge Has opened the eyes of one blinded by the disease of ignorance.

Guru Brahmaa Gurur Vishnuh; Gurur Devo Maheshvarah; Gurureva param Brahma Tasmai Shree gurave namah. The Spiritual Teacher is Brahma and the Guru is also Vishnu The Guru is Lord Shiva; the Guru is verily the Supreme Brahman. My salutations to that Guru.

Sthaavaram jangamam vyaaptam Yatkinchit sacharaacharam; Tatpadam darshitam yena Tasmai shree gurave namah. Salutations to the Guru who has made it possible to realize Him Who pervades this entire world, animate and inanimate, movable and immovable.

Chinmayam vyaapi yatsarvam Trailokyam sacharaacharam; Tatpadam darshitam yena

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Tasmai shree gurave namah. Salutations to the Guru who has made it possible to realize Him Who as consciousness pervades the three worlds, with their movable and immovable objects.

Sarva shruti shiro ratna Viraa jita padaam bujah; Vedaantaambujasooryo yas- Tasmai shree gurave namah. Salutations to the Guru whose form is radiant with the Jewel of Vedanta and Who is the sun that causes the lotus-of-Vedanta to blossom.

Chaitanyah shaashvatah shaanto Vyo maa teeto niran janah; Bindu naa dakalaa teetas- Tasmai shree gurave namah. Salutations to the Guru who is the Supreme Spirit, eternal and serene Who is beyond space, pure, and is beyond Nada Bindu and Kala.

Gynaana shakti samaaroodhah Tattvamaalaavibooshitah; Bhuktimuktipradaataa cha Tasmai shree gurave namah. Salutations to the Guru who is established in knowledge and power Who is adorned with the garland-of-knowledge and Who grants both worldly prosperity and spiritual liberation.

Aneka janmasampraapta- Karmabandhavidaahine; Aatmagnaanapradaanena Tasmai shree gurave namah. Salutations to the Guru who by lighting the fire of self-knowledge Burns away the fuel-of-karma accumulated through innumerable lives.

Shoshanam bhavasindhoshcha Gnaapanam saarasampaqdah; Guroh paadodakam samyak Tasmai shree gurave namah. Salutations to the Guru, the waters touched by whose feet Completely dry up the endless sorrows of this mortal existence and Makes one realize the Supreme True Wealth. Gurustotram - Salutations to the Teacher 159

Na Guru radhikam tattvam Na Guru radhikam tapah; gnaanaat param naasti Tasmai shree gurave namah. There is no higher truth than the Guru himself No higher penance than (service to) the Guru, and There is nothing higher than realization. Salutations to that Guru.

Mannaathah shree Jagannaathah Madguruh shree Jagadguruh; Madaatmaa sarvabhuutaatmaa Tasmai shree gurave namah. My Lord is the lord of the universe My Guru is the teacher of the universe, and My Self is the one self in everything. Salutations to that Guru.

Guru raadiranaa dishcha Guruh paramadaivatam; Guroh parataram naasti Tasmai shree gurave namah. The Guru is the beginning of the universe, Yet, He himself is without a beginning. The Guru is the highest deity There is none higher than the Guru. Salutations to that Guru.

Tvameva maataa cha pitaa tvameva Tvameva bandhushcha sakhaa tvameva; Tvameva vidyaa dravinam tvameva Tvameva sarvam mama devadeva. You are my mother and father. You are my friend and the love of my heart. You are knowledge and its light and fortune; You are my All. Oh, soul of my heart! 4. Guru Vandana

Om Brahma nandam parama sukhadam Kevalam jnaana murtim Dvandvaa titam gagana sadrsham Tattva masyaadi laksyam Ekam nityam vimalam achalam Saravadhi saashi bhutam Bhaavaa titam triguna rahitam Sadgurum tam namaami.

I salute that noble teacher whose nature is the bliss of Brahman; who grants supreme joy, who is the Absolute one, and the embodiment of knowledge; He is beyond the pairs of opposites like heat and cold, happiness and misery; Comparable to space and indicated by statements like ìThat Thou Artî; the One, the Eternal, the Pure, the unmoving and the witness of all ìthoughtsî; One beyond expression and devoid of the three attributes (sattva, rajas and tamas).

160 5. Shaantih Mantrah ñ Peace Invocation i. Om Bhadram karnebhih Om Bhadram karnebhih srnuyaama devaah Bhadram Pasyemaa ksbhirya jatraah Sthirair angais tustu vaagm sastanubhih Vyasema devahitam yadayuh Svasti na indro vrddha shravaah Svasti nah puushaa visva vedaah Svasti nastaarksyo arista nemih Svasti nastaarksyo arista nemih Svasti no Brhaspatir dadhaatu. Om Shaantih Shaantih Shaantih!

Oh ye Gods, may we (always) hear with our ears what is auspicious O worshipful ones, may we with our eyes always see what is auspicious. May we live the entire span of our allotted life hale and hearty, offering our praises (unto Thee). May Indra, the ancient and the famous, Pusan (sun) the all knowing, the lord of swift motion (Vayu) who save us from all harms and Brhaspati who protects spiritual wealth in us ñ Bless us (with intellectual strength to understand the scripture and a resolute heart to follow the teachings). Om Peace, Peace, Peace! ii. Sham no mitrah Om sham no mitrah sham varunah Sham no bhava tvar yamaa Sham na indro brihaspatih Sham no vishnu rurukramah Namo brahamane namaste vaayo Tvameva pratyak sham brahmaasi Tvameva pratyak sham brahma vadish yaami

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Ritam vadish yaami Satyam vadish yaami Tan maam avatu Tad vaktaa ram avatu Avatu maam Avatu vaktaa ram Om shaanthi shaanthi shaanthih

Om. May the sun [mitra] be kind to us May the rain-god [varuna] nourish the earth through the blessings of our ancestors [aryaman] May the lord-of-heavens [Indra] be gracious May the teachings of gods [Brihaspati] bless us May the visible Brahman in the form of wind-god [Vayu] be the only perceptible Brahman You are Truth. You are beneficial. May You protect the Teacher. I will always talk about Brahman I will speak the truth. May You protect me as well. Please protect the speaker also. Peace! Peace! Peace! iii. Apyaantu Mamangaani Om aapyaa yantu mam angaani vak praanash chakshuh shrotram atho balam indriyaani cha sarvaani Sarvam brahmo upani shadam maaham brahma niraa kuryaam maa brahma niraa karot aniraakar namastu aniraa karanam mestu tad aatmani nirate ya upani shatsu dharmaah te mayi santu te mayi santu om shaantih shaantih shaantih

Om may my limbs, speech, vital air [prana], and all my senses grow to become astrally sensitive. Everything is God [Brahman] of the Upanishads. May I never deny God. May God never spurn me. Let all virtues recited in the Upanishads rest in me and delight my soul with non-attachment for the pleasures of the Shaantih Mantrah ñ Peace Invocation 163

world. May virtues reside in me! May virtues reside in me! Om Peace! Peace! Peace! iv. Sanjivani Mrtyumjaya Mantrah Om hoong Om joong Om saha Om bhu Om bhuva Om svaha Om Trayambakam yajaamahe sugandhim pushtivardhanam Oorvaa rukamiva vandhanaan mrityor mookshiya maamrootaata Om hoong Om joong Om saha Om bhu Om bhuva Om svaha Om

Om. We worship Lord Shiva (the three eyed one) who is full of fragrance and who nourishes all being. May He liberate me from the pain of mortal death for the sake of immortality. May the striving be as effortless as the separation of a ripe cucumber from its attachments to roots and vines. v. Shiva Praarthana Om namastestu bhagavan visvesh varaaya mahaa devaaya Trayam bakaaya tripur aanta kaaya trikaa aagni kaalaaya Kaalaagni rudraaya niila kanthaaya mrutyum jayaaya Sarves varaaya sadaa shivaaya Shriman mahaa devaaya namaha My salutations to Vishveshvaraya [controller, protector, and creator] of the universe. He has three eyes and dissolves all the worlds [Rudraya] and is Lord of the two fires - Triagni, and Pralaya [ignorance causing change]. This blue- throated lord [Nilakanthaya] conquers change of death [Mrtyum-jayaya] and is Lord of all [Sarveshvaraya]. He is always auspicious [Sadashivaya]. He has the marks of dignity, beauty, grace, splendor, and transcendence [Shriman]. I salute the Lord of all lords [Mahadevaya] vi. Praarthana Mantrah Om Svasti Prajaabhyah Paripaal yantaam Nyaayena Maargena Mahim Mahisaah, Go braahmane bhyah Subham astu Nityam Lokaah Samastaah Sukhino Bhavantu Kaale Varshtu Parjanyah Prithvi Sasya saalini Desoyam Kshobha rahitah Braahmanaah santu Nirbhaayah

Om Praise is to all leaders who protect their citizens in truth and justice. May the religious leaders be righteous and auspicious. May there be plenty and the 164 The Cosmic Connection

cows productive. May the subjects [citizens] be content. May the rains nourish the fields at appropriate times so that the grains ripen. May the Nation be free of agitation and discontent. May the learned and wise leaders remain fearless. vii. Tatcham yo Raavrunimahe Taccham yora avrunee mahe Gaatum Yajnaaya Gaatum Yajnapataye Daivee Svasthirastu Nah Svastir maanushe bhyah Urdhvam jigaatu bheshajam Shanno Astu Dvipade Sham chatush pade Om Shaantih Shaantih Shaantih We seek the blessings for our sacrifice as well as the performers of this sacrifice (Yagna). May the Gods shower their blessings on us, may there be blessings on mankind. May the healers prosper. May there be blessings on the two-legged and four-legged ones. Peace Peace Peace. viii. Gaayatri Mantra Om bhur-bhuvah Svaha Tat-savitur-varenyam. Bhargo devasya dhimahi Dhiyo yo nah prachoda yaat.

We meditate on that Ishwaraís glory who has created the Universe; Who is fit to be worshipped; Who is the embodiment of knowledge and light, Who is the remover of all sins and ignorance. May he illuminate (enlighten) our (entire universeís) intellects. 6. Mukundamala ñ A Garland of Hymns to Mukunda (Selected)

Jayatu jayatu devo devaki nandanoíyam Jayatu jayatu krishno vrishni vamsha pradeepah Jayatu jayatu megha shyamalah komalaangah Jayatu Jaytu prithvi bharanasho mukundah Victory to the supreme Divinity (born as) the enchanting child of Devaki! Victory to Sri Krishna who brought light to the Vrishni race! Victory to that embodiment of the tender beauty with a cloud-blue complexion! Victory to Mukunda who removes the burden of the earth caused by the wicked. (Verse 3)

Chintayaami Harimeva santatam Manda manda hasitaa nanambujam Nanda gopa tanayam paraat param Naaradaadi muni vrinda vanditam I only think of Hari constantly, the attractor of all, whose face ñ With the gentle smile playing over it ñ is charming like a lotus flower in bloom, and Who transcends all cause-and-effect relations. Yet He appeared as the son of Nandababa and Was worshipped by the band of ascetic sages headed by Narada. (Verse 9)

Jihve keertaya keshavam muraripum Cheto bhaja shreedharam Panir dvandva samarchaya achyuta kathaah Shrotra dvaiya tvam shrunu Krishnam lokaya lochana dvaya harer Gacchaaangri yugmaalayam Jighra ghraana mukunda pada tulasim Moordhan nama adhoksha jam Oh, my tongue, recite the glory of Keshava; O my mind, worship Muraripu;

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O my hands, make devout offerings to Sridhara; O my ears, listen to the glorifying deeds of Achyuta; O my eyes, look at Krishnaís form; O my feet, approach the temple where Hari is worshipped; O my organ of olfaction, smell the Tulasi offered at the feet of Mukunda; O my head, bows down in reverence to Adhoksha. (Verse 17)

He Gopalaka he Kripaajala nidhe He Sindhu kanyaa pate He Kamsaan taka he Gajendra karunaa paarina he Maadhava He Raamaanuja He Jagat traya guro He Pundari kaaksha maam He Gopi Jana naatha paalaya param Jaan aami na tvaam vinaa O the tender Cowherd Boy who protected the cattle of Vrindavana, O You sea of Compassion, O You consort of Lakshmi, the daughter of the Milky Ocean, O You destroyer of Kamsa, O You bestower of endless mercy upon the elephant chief in his distress, O Madhava known through contemplation, O You the younger brother of Balarama, O Preceptor of all the three worlds, O You lotus-eyed One, O Protector of the gopis of Vrindavana, Design to save me; for, except You, I know none other who is supreme. (Verse 22)

Namami Naaraayana paada pankajam Karomi Naaraayana poojanam sadaa Vadaami Naaraayana Naama Nirmalam Smaraami Naaraayana Tattvam-avyayam I bow down in worship at the lotus-feet of Narayana. I continue my service to Narayana constantly and repeat the hallowed names of Narayana. I am remembering the reality of Narayana, which is unchanging. (Verse 36)

Ananta Vaikunta Mukunda Krishna Govinda Damodhara Maadhaveti Vaktum samarthoípi na vakti kaschit Aho Janaanaam naabhi mukhyam Mukundamala ñ A Garland of Hymns to Mukunda (Selected) 167

Though everyone is capable of repeating Your divine names Like Ananta, Vaikuntha, Mukunda, Krishna, Govinda, Damodara and Madhava, Hardly does anyone do it. Alas, manís inclination to indulge in evil pursuits is amazing. (Verse 37)

Kaayena vaachaa manasendriyair vaa Buddhyaatmanaa vaa prakruteh svabhaavaat Karomi yadyat sakalam parasmai Narayana yeti Samarpayaami By force of my nature whatever I do By physical action, utterance of words, mental acts, or operations of the senses All that, without omission, I dedicate to Narayana, the Most High. (Verse 38) 168 The Cosmic Connection

7. Geeta Dhyanam

Om Paarthaaya prati bodhi taam Bhagavataa Naaraaya nena svayam Vyaasena grathi taam puraana munina Madhye Mahaabhaaratam; Advaita amrita varshineem bhagavateem Ashtaa dashaa dhyaa yineem Amba tvaam anu sanda dhaami Bhagavad geete bhavad eshineem. I meditate on you, O Divine Mother Geeta. You are given by Lord Narayana Himself, to Arjuna While in the midst of the great conflict of the Mahabharata. The ancient saint Vyasa composed your poetic form seen in eighteen chapters. You destroy all our limitations and shower upon us the saving knowledge of the non-dual truth.

Namostu te Vyaasa vishaala buddhe Phullaara vindaa yatapatra netra; Yena tvayaa Bhaarata taila poornah Prajvaalito gnaana mayah pradeepah. Salutations on to thee, O Vyasa of mighty intellect, Who has eyes like the petals of a full-blown lotus-tree, By whom was lighted the lamp of knowledge, Filled with the Mahabharata oil.

Prapanna paari jaataaya Totra vetrai kapaanaye; Gnaana mudraaya Krishnaaya Geetaamrita duhe namah. Salutations to Krishna: who is a ìtree of fulfillmentî And is the bestower of all desires to all those who totally surrender to Him, Who has milked the Geeta nectar, the holder of gyanañmudra, The wielder of the cane in one hand with which He drives home the herd of cattle under His protection.

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Sarvo panishado gaavo Dogdhaa Gopaala nandanah; Paartho vatsah sudheer bhoktaa dugdham Geet aamritam mahat. All the Upanishads are cows, the sons of the cowherd, i.e Krishna, is the milker, Partha is the calf, Men of purified intellect are the enjoyers, and The supreme nectar of the Geeta is the milk.

Vasudeva sutam devam Kanmsa Chaanoora mardanam; Devakee paramaa nandam Krishnam vande Jagadgurum. I salute Lord Krishna, the teacher of the universe, The divine son of Vasudeva The destroyer of Kamsa and Chanura, The supreme bliss of Devaki.

Bheeshma-Drona-tataa Jayadratha jalaa Gaandhaara neelot palaa Shalya graaha vatee Kripena vahanee Karnena velaa kulaa; Ashvatthaama Vikarna-ghora makaraa Duryodhanaa vartinee Sotteer naa khalu Paandavai rana nadee Kaivar takah Keshavah. The river of battle, with Bhisma and Drona, as its banks; With Jayadratha, as its waters; With the king of Gandhara, as the blue water lily, Shalya as the shark; Kripa as the current; Karna as the breaker; Ashvatthama and Vikarna as terrible crocodiles; Duryodhana as the whirlpool in it ñ Was indeed crossed over by the Pandavas with Keshava as the ferryman.

Paaraa sharya vachas saroj mamalam Geeta artha gandhot katam Naanaa khyaana kake saram 170 The Cosmic Connection

Hari kathaa sam bodhanaa bodhitam; Loke sajjana shat padair aha rahah Pepee yamaa nam mudaa Bhooyaat Bhaarata pankajam Kail mala pradh vamsi nah shreyase. May the spotless lotus of Mahabharata ñ Born in the waters of the words of the son of Parashara (i.e. Vyasa), Having for its sweet and pleasant fragrance the significance of the Geeta, With many narratives as its inner soft petals, fully blossomed by the stories of Hari, and Joyously drunk day after day by the six footed (honey bees) ñ May these good men of the world be productive of the supreme good to us, Who are eager to destroy and Safely come out of the inner imperfections of the iron age.

Mookam karoti vaachaalam, Pangum lanngha yate girim; Yat kripaa tama ham vande Paramaa nanda Maa dhavam. I salute that Supreme Bliss Madhava, Whose grace renders the mute eloquent and Enables the cripple to cross mountains.

Yam Brahmaa Varunendra Rudra Marutah Stun vanti divyaih stavaih Vedaih saango adakram opanishadair Gaayanti yam Saama gaah; Dhyaanaa vasthita tad gatena manasaa Pashyanti yam yogino Yas yaantam na viduh suraa sura ganaah Devaaya tasmai namah. Salutations to that Godhead whom the Creator Brahmaji, Lord Varuna, Lord Indra, Lord Rudra and the Lord of the Marutas invoke with their divine hymns†; Whom the singers of Sama songs invoke through their correct and appropriate chantings, Whom the realize with their minds absorbed In the goal of their contemplation through perfect meditation and Whose limits are not known even to the citizens of the heavens or To the Asuras of the nether Kingdom. 8. Nama Sankirtanam - Famous Seed Mantras i. Om Gam Gana pathaye Namah Om Namah Shivaaya Om Namo Naaraaya naaya Om Namo Bhagavate Vaasu devaaya Shree Ram Jaya Ram Jaya Jaya Ram

Om prostrations to Ganapati [Beej mantra] Om I prostrate to Sri Shiva Om prostrations to Narayan Om prostrations to Bhagavaan Vasudeva Prostrations to Rama ii. Shree Raama Raama Raameti Rama Raame Mano Rame Sahasra naama Tat tulyam Raama Naama Varaa nane (3 times)

Discussion takes place between Shiva and Parvati. Parvati wants a shortened version of Vishnu Sahasranama. ìHe Raame He Rame He Manorame He Varaannaneî, in response Shiva states. And addressing Paravati with affection states: ìThe sahasranam is complete with ONE Raama Naam.î

171 172 The Cosmic Connection

9. Ganapati Stavah

The following stanzas are a worshipful effort made by the individual to become ëOneí with the Lord of Cosmic Intelligence who is the master of every thought- atom of our intellect. Contemplate the meaning of what is chanted in Sanskrit: I offer to Ganapati with form my deepest worship. I know You are complete, unborn, and have no form. I know you cannot be ëclassifiedí as an adjective bliss because You are Bliss Itself. You are infinite; You cannot be given any attributes and cannot be differentiated. You have no desires because You already are Brahman Himself.

Ajam nirvi kalpam niraa kaaram ekam Niraa nandam anandam advaita purnam Param nirgunam nirvi shesham nirii ham Para brahma rupam ganesham bhajema I offer to Ganapati attributes knowing full well that Your nature is without attributes. You embody intelligence, which is the all-pervading light of bliss. It is this that all meditate upon as the goal of knowledge. It is this that is both Formless and like space. I prostrate To Ganapati who is Brahman Himself.

Gunaa titam aanam chida ananda rupam Chidaa bhaasa kam sarva gam gyana gamyam Muni dhyeyam aakaasha rupam paresham Para brahma rupam ganesham bhajema I offer my worship to Ganapati who is the first cause of this universe. Here the world takes its birth from the infinite total primal knowledge. It is here that all gods take their origin as bliss. From here all the heavenly hosts take their birth. Like them, I offer my worship to Ganapati who is Brahman Himself.

Jagat kaaranam kaarana gyaana rupam Suraa dim sukhaa dim gune sham gane sham Jagad vyaapi nam vandyam suresham Para brahma rupam ganesham bhajema myaham

172 Ganapati Stavah 173

You are the cause of creation and are the repository of its secret knowledge. Master devata who gives peace and is beyond the gunas. Evanescent and existent in everything in the universe ñ you are the Lord of it all. I prostrate to the personage of who is higher than Brahma. 174 The Cosmic Connection

10. Ganapati Puja

1) Achamanam Place a spoonful of water in the palm of your right hand and sip it while saying each ënamahaî. With each namaha, you are purifying each layer of you inner personality.

Achyutaya namaha Prostration to the Lord of infallibility Anantaya namaha Prostrations to one who is limilessless and infinite Govindaa-ya namaha Prostrations to one who is master of the senses 2) Dhyaanam Ring the bell and contemplate the following as you chant. I am meditationg upon Lord Ganapati who wears white garments. He pervades all of space. His colour is that of the Light of the moon. He has four arms. His face is peaceful and always happy. I contemplate upon the Lord who removes all abstacles in every action I perform today and always.

Shuklaam bara dharam Vishnum shashi varnam Chatur bhujam Pra sanna vadanam dhyaa yet Sarva vighna upa shaan ta ye Om You who is like the full moon and as bright as Vishnu Himself, who possesses four arms and a pleasant countenance, I meditate upon You so that all difficulties resolve. 3) Sankalpah Contemplate as you resolve the following;

Mama upaatta samasta durita kshaya dvaaraa Shri param eshvara prit yartham Mama sakala vidyaa praap tyartham

174 Ganapati Puja 175

Maha ganapati pra saada siddh yartham Tat prasaadena sad budhi siddh yartham Shri maha ganapati pujaam karish ye Om I am dedicating this puja to You, for the Lord of this Universe at this auspicious time. I seek negation of all my sins. I want from this act both dispassion, and Knowledge. I seek the blessings of Lord Ganapati. Through these puja blessings may I attain wisdom. 4) Dhyaanam With folded hands and eyes closed contemplate the meaning of the slokas as you chant them:

Aga jaanana padmaar kam gajaa nanam aharni sham Aneka dantam bhaktaa naam eka dantam upaas mahe Om Shri mahaa gana patim dhyaa yaami Day or night, I meditate upon Lord Ganapati. Even Mother Parvatiís face delights with happiness when She sees Your face. Her smile is like the lotus blossoming under the sun rays. She delights in You: O single tusked master of so many devotees like me. 5) Aavaahanam Now invoke Lord Ganapati to seat Himself - so you may be able to worship Him:

Atraa gaccha jagad vandya sura raaja archit ishvara Anaatha naatha sarva gnayna gajaanana hara priya Om Shri Mahaa gana patim aavahyaami Oh Ganapati, please come and be seated here. Although, I know you are dear to Lord Shiva, your father, I also know that You are adored by those who have no refuge. I invoke You as Lord with a beautiful form. 6) Aasanam Offer akshata with your right hand to symbolize the Lordís seat. At the same time chant the sloka as you place the akshata at His feet.

Om Shri Mahaa gana pataye namah Aasana artham aksha taan samar payaami I offer you a seat O lord. 7) Padyam You are now going to wash His feet. He has come from a great distance to visit 176 The Cosmic Connection

you. With your right hand take a spoonful of water and pour it in a bowl. You are chanting the following:

Om Shri Mahaaganapataye Namaha Paadyoh paadyam samarpayaami I hereby wash my Lordís feet. 8) Arghyam Take a spoonful of water in your right hand and pour it into a bowl on your left. While doing so, tell Lord Ganesh that you are washing His hands as you chant the following verses:

Om Shri Mahaa ganapataye Namaha Hastayoh arghyam samar payaami Lord, I now wash your hands. 9) Aachamaniyam Take a spoonful of water with your right hand and pour it into a bowl on your left. As you do that, tell Lord Ganapati that you are offering Him water to drink or to wash His mouth as you chant the following verses:

Om Shri Mahaaganapataye Namaha Mukhe aacha maniyam samarpayaami 10) Snaanam Now you are offering Lord Vinayaka water for His bath. (Pour water on a flower petal in your right hand over a bowl with the spoon. While chanting the first samarpayaami, sprinkle the petal water on the statue: head, torso and legs. While chanting the second samarpayaami, pour water with a spoon in the bowl). You are contemplating the following in Sanskrit:

Gangaadi sarva tirthe bhyah aahrutaih vimalaih jalaih Snaanam kurushva bhagavan umaa putra namostu te Om Shri Mahaa gana pataye Namaha Shuddho daka snaanam samarpayaami Snaana-anantaram aacha maniiyam samarpayaami Salutations to You O son of Uma. Please bathe yourself with this pure water I have brought for You from Ganga and other holy rivers of the world. I offer You pure water to bathe Your pure and beautiful form. After Your bath, I offer You also water to drink. Ganapati Puja 177

11) Vastram I now offer You akshata instead of garments to cover Your beautiful Form. Place akshata with your right hands at His feet as you chant samarpayaami.

Om Shri Mahaa ganapataye Namaha Vastr aartham akshataan samarpayaami 12) Upavitam I now offer You akshata in place of a clean sacred thread to adorn Your beautiful Form. Place akshata at His feet or in a container as you say samarpayaami.

Om Shri Mahaa ganapataye Namaha Upavit aartham akshataan samarpayaami 13) Gandhah I offer You sacred scented sandalwood to adorn Your forehead. [Use your right ring finger dot a little sandalwood at His feet as you say samarpayaami.

Om Shri Mahaa ganapataye Namaha Divya parimala gandham dhaara yaami 14) Kum-kumam Use the same ring finger of your right hand to dot a little kumkum at His feet. Tell Him you are offering Him kumkum to adorn His beautiful body with Form.

Gandhasya upari haridraa kum-kumam samarpayaami Akshataan samarpayaami 15) Pushpam You already have a pre-prepared garland of 21 scented flowers. As you garland Lord Ekadanta, tell Him to accept your garland as your offering of devotion.

Sugan dhini cha push paani jaati kunda mu khaani cha Eka vim shati sam khyaani grhaana gana nayaka Om Shri Mahaa Gana pataye Namaha Pushpa maalah dhaara yaami Pushpaih pujayaami 178 The Cosmic Connection

16) Archanaa Use a flower petal as an offering at each ënamahaí. Lift a petal to your chest with your right hand each time you describe Him in your own mind. As you imagine the description of His Form, place the petal at His feet and pick the next petal.

Om Su mukhaaya Namaha Salutations to one who has a beautiful face. Om Eka dantaaya Namaha Salutations to one who has one tusk. Om Kapilaaya Namaha Salutations to one who is of reddish colour. Om Gaja karna kaaya Namaha Salutations to one who has elephant ears. Om Lambo daraaya Namah Salutations to one who has a big belly. Om Vikataaya Namah Salutations to one who is the source of happiness. Om Vighna raajaaya Namah Salutations to one who is the ruler of obstacles. Om Vinaaya kaaya Namah Salutations to one who is supreme God. Om Dhoomra ketave Namah Salutations to one who is like fire in stature. Om Ganaa dhyak shaaya Namah Salutations to one who is the leader of the Ganas. Om Bhaala chandraaya Namah Salutations to one who has a crescent moon on his forehead. Om Gajaa nanaaya Namah Salutations to one who has an elephant-face. Om Vakra tundaaya namah Salutations to one who has a bent tusk. Om Shoorpa karnaaya Namah Salutations to one who has basket-like ears. Om Heram bhaaya Namah Salutations to one who is supremely powerful. Om Skanda purva jaaya Namah Salutations to one who is Subramanyamís elder brother. Ganapati Puja 179

Sarva siddhi pradaaya kaaya Namah To the giver of all fruits of our correct actions. Om Mahaa Ganapataye Namah I prostrate to You and offer my salutations to You O lord of form. With spoonful of water, tell Him you have adored Him with leaf and flower as you chant samarpayaami. Place the water into a bowl. Naanaa vidha parimala patra pushpaani samarpayaami This variety of leaves and flowers I dedicate to You. 17) Dhoopah Take a bunch of agarbati with your right hand and light them off the lamp. Shake off the flame by waving a little and tell Lord Ganapati that you are offering Him incense first (wave it three times left to right for face, torso and legs and then for the whole body) and then will be giving Him some water.

Om Shree Mahaa Ganapataye Namah Dhoopam aaghraa payaami Dhoopaan taram aachama niiyam samarpaayaami 18) Deepah Next you tell Him that you offer him the sacred Light of Knowledge and Wisdom. Say you want Him to gift you these. Wave the Lamp like you did with the incense sticks. Tell Him you will in the end of this verse offer Him water also when you say achamanam

Om Shree Mahaa Ganapataye Namah Divya mangala dipam darshayami Dipaanan tram aachama niyam samarpayaami 19) Naivedyam Dip a flower petal in water with your right hand sprinkle and circle it clockwise one time as you the food offering. Now offer the flower each time as if feeding Him and contemplate the following which you are now chanting:

Om Maha ganapataye Namah Modakam maashaa pupam paayasam kadali phalam Naari kela khandam kapitha phalam Sarvam mahaa naivedyam nivedayaami Naivedyaan taram aachaman iyam samarpayaami I am offering You laddoos of rice, urad-dal vadaas, kheer, bananas, broken 180 The Cosmic Connection

, and wood-apple as the maha-prasaad You like so much. At the end I am offering You some water to drink and to wash Your mouth. 20) Taambulam I now offer You paan leaf with supari to my Lord of Form

Om Maha Ganapataye Namah Taamboolam nivedayaami 21) Niraajanam Contemplate the following as you wave the lit camphor like you just did with the lit lamp and imagine saying this as you chant the verse: Om Maha-Ganapataye Namah Karpura niraajanam darshayaami Niraajana anantaram aachmaniyam samarpayaami With this arati of lighted camphor, I am offering You my respect and devotion to the Lord with Form. In the end, I offer You some water. 22) Mantra Pushpam You are now offering a vedic prayer with flowers. As you chant it, give a petal to all those present. At the end place a petal at Lord Ganapatiís feet also.

Om Maha-Ganapataye Namah Mantra pushpam samar-payaami Yo apam pushpam veda pushpavaan prajaavaan pashumaan bhavati Chandramaa vaa apaam pushpavaan prajaavaan pashumaan bhavati Om The flowers being offered are the flowers of the Vedas The beauty of the moon is being offered to You 23) Namaskaarah You have come to the end of your puja. As you say samarpayaami, do pradakshina three times as if circumambulating His Form of the Universe.

Namo Namo Ganeshaaya Namaste Vishvaroopine Nirvi ghnam kuru me kaaman namaami tvaam Gajaanana Om Maha Ganapataye Namah Pradakshina namaskaaraan samarpayaami Om Maha Ganapataye Namah Samastopa chaaraan samarpayaami Om Lord of form Ganapati, I am offering You salutations over and over again. Ganapati Puja 181

I know you are the Lord of the Universe. Fulfill my wishes and actions. I salute You, oh Lord Gajanana. I have gone through the 16 steps of the Ganapati puja, which I have just offered You in worship (upchaar). 24) Samarpanam This step is a dedication to Lord Narayana.

Kaayena vaachaa manase indriyair vaa Buddhy aatmanaa vaa prakrteh svaa bhaavaat Karome yadyat sakalam parasmai Narayanaa yeti samarpayaami Om Tat Sat Brahm arpana mastu Whatever it is I do with my body, words mind and senses, intellect and my inherent nature from past births, I offer it to Lord Vishnu. Next contemplate upon the Oneness of yourself with Oneness of the Cosmic Mother, Amba. Om Poorna madah Poorna midam Poornaat Poornam udachyate Purnasya purna maadaaya purnam evaa vashish yate Om shaantih shaantih shaantihi You are Complete Oneness and I am part of You also. I as One manifested from the Oneness of the Divine Mother, when unmanifest, becomes, is and remains as that same Oneness. Peace Peace Peace in all three realms of existence on the substratum of Aum! 182 The Cosmic Connection

11. Purusha Suktam

Taccham yoraa vrunee mahe Gaatum Yajnaaya Gaatum pataye Daivee Svasthirastu Nah Svastir maanushe bhyah Urdhvam jigaatu bhesha jam Shanno Astu Dvipade Sham chatush pade Om Shaantih Shaantih Shaantih I invoke the Yagna purusha who is the Lord unto whom all offerings reach May He be pleased with these offerings Lift me from sufferings

Om Sahasra sheershaa Purushah Saharaakshah Sahasra paat Sabhoomim Vishvato Vrittwaa Atya tishtath dash aangulam 1 The Infinite Cosmic Lord - the purusha, with a thousand heads, a thousand eyes, a thousand legs, pervades and envelops the whole universe. In man the Self [soul] resides in the head from the kutastha [between two eyebrows] to ten fingerbreadths towards the top of the head.

Purusha eve dam Sarvam. Yad bhootam Yaccha Bhavyam Uta amruta ttvasy eshaanah Yada nnenaati rohati 2 Whatever is already born, and whatever it is that is still to be born in the future, all are the Cosmic He [Virat Purusha]. Not only this, even for the gods [devas], He is the master controller. He therefore transcends the individualized mortal state of being [Me].

Etavaanasya Mahimaa no Jaya yam sasha Purooshaha Paadoísya vishwaa bhootaani Tripaa dasya amrutam divi 3 All that has been said is about His glory [mahima]. But Virat Purusha is much more than all these. The entire universe of happenings [vishwa] and the

182 Purusha Suktam 183 creatures [bhootani] is but a quarter portion [pada] of Him. The remaining three-quarters [tripad] of His glory is the light [divi] of immutable awareness- consciousness Tripaa doordhva udaitih purushah Paadoo asya ehaa bhavaat punah Tato vish vamg vyakraa math Saa shanaa nashane abhi 4 The three-quarters of the Virat-Purusha extend well beyond the universe of change. This one-quarter of His total being comes to play in the total universe, again and again [in every kalpa] and is therefore finite. He comes to play the game of delusion [maya]. The finite plays the game of creation-existence- Dissolution of the infinite universe. He pervades all beings that eat and also those that do not.

Tasmaat viraada jaayata Viraajo adhi poorushah. Sajaato Atya richyata. Paschaat bhoomi mato purah. 5 From that cosmic form [tasmaat] emerged the supreme cosmic seed [brahmanandam]. Identifying with this seed, Virat Purusha was born. From the purusha came creation of multiplicity, from which came man and earth.

Yat Puru shena havi shaa Devaa yajna matan vata Vasanto Asya assee daa jyam Greeshma idmah sharadd havih 6 When the gods [noble devas] invoked Purusha [in the beginning of a kalpa], they thought Him as their oblation, the Season of Spring, as [aajyam]. Their pure minds considered the Summer season as fuel [edhmah], and the rainy season [the autumnal Fall] as grains, required for offerings [havish].

Sapta asya asan pari dhayah Trih sapta samidhah krutaah Deva yad yajnam tan vaanaah Abha dhnan Purusham pashum 7 For this yagna they appointed seven vedies [paridhaya] and created twenty-one kinds of fuel [twelve months, five seasons, three worlds, one sun] in all. The very Lord [Prajapati ñ father of mankind] they were trying to invoke, was found tied to the sacrificial post as an animal offering. 184 The Cosmic Connection

Tam yajnam bar hishi prouk shan Purusham jaatam agratah Tena deva aya janta Saadhyaa risha yash cha ye 8 This first-born Purusha was offered [their egoistic minds] as an oblation [twentyone fuels] into the sacred fire [spiritual activity for liberation]. By this act, the gods [devas], celestials, and rishis all became victorious over the universe. They gained liberation and the universe gained prosperity.

Tasmaad yajnaat sarva hutah Sam bhrutam prishadaa jyam Pashoog staagsh chakre vaa vyavyaan Aaran yaan graam yaansh cha ye 9 From that sarvahuta [total sacrifice of the lower selfish self for a higher meditative goal] sacrifice was gained blessings [subjective offering to the Gods] to serve the curd and ghee; the created insects born of air, the animals that roam the forest, and also the domestic cattle.

Tasmaad yajnaat sarva hutah Richah saamaani jajnire Chandaamsi jajnire tasmaat Yajustasmaad ajaayata 10 From that sarvahuta sacrifice were born sacred declarations of riks [Rig Veda] and samas [Sama Veda]. Then came the meters of transformation [chhandas]. Then came mantras[yajus].

Tasmaad ashvaa ajaa yanta Yeke cho ubhayaa datah Gaavoha jajnire tasmaat Tasmaaj jaata ajaa vayah 11 From the sacrifice [yagna] came horses, and all creatures with rows of teeth. Born thus were cows, sheep and goats necessary to form His world around the performers of sacrifice. These are blessings for the performer of sacrifice.

Yat purusham vyada dhuh Kathidaa vya kalpa yan. Mukham kim asya kau baahoo Kaavooroo paadaav uchyete 12 When the devas meditated upon the universal macrocosmic god [Virat Purusha], in what ways did they conceive Him? What came out of His divine Purusha Suktam 185 face? What is it that which came out of His hands? And what came from His thighs and His sacred feet? These should be described.

Braahmano asya mukham aaseet. Bahoo raajan yah kritah Ooroo tadasya yad vaish yah Pad bhyam shoodro ajaa yata 13 From the face were born thinkers (sattvic cultured men dedicated to divine ways of life). From his hands were born kings and soldiers [rajasic-sattvic mortals always ready to fight for righteousness]. From his thighs were born distributors [rajasic-tamasic] or traders of wealth to community; and from his feet were born servers [extrovert mortals] of mankind endowed with faith, loyalty for right causes, and love for all things desired. In seeing the Cosmic Person as a self-dividing compartmentalisation of the whole, the might of the total arm is represented. This stanza is not a caste division but describes many types of MIND-INTELLECT parts and TENDENCIES [vasanas] to make the WHOLE.

Chandra maa manaso jaatah Chakshoo ho sooryo ajaa yaia Mukhaad indrash cha agnish cha Praanad vaayur ajaayata 14 From the Cosmic Personís face came out the moon; from His eyes came the sun; from His mouth came Indra and Fire; and from His breath came the atmospheric Air. This verse states: the microcosm [Me or vyashti] comes from the macrocosm [Cosmic Man or samashti]. The total universe when conceived as One Whole is virat-purusha. His eyes are the total eyes of all creation; His breath is the total breath of all creation; His mouth is the entrance to the fire of total digestion of all creatures; His eyes are the sun and so on.

Naabhyaa aaseed antarik sham Sheer shno dyauh sama vartata Pad bhyaam bhoomir dishah shro traat Tataa lokaam akal payan 15 From the virat-purushaís navel came the inner space; from His head came the outer space. From His feet emerged the earth; and from His ears the quarters of space were manifested. Thus was born the whole of creation, encompassing and embracing everything within Himself.

Vedaaha metam purusham mahan tam Aaditya varnam tamas stu pare 186 The Cosmic Connection

Sarvaani roopaani vichitya dheerah Naamaani kritva abhi vadan yad aaste 16 I have realised that First Person is resplendent like the sun, ever shining and beyond any darkness. It is He who created all names and forms; and then in His wisdom, exists and functions through them all.

Dhaataa pura staadya mudaa jahaara Shakrah pravi dvaan pradi shash chata srah Tam evam vidvaan amruta iha bhavati Naan yah pantha aya naaya vidyate 17 Him whom Prajapati proclaimed as virat-purusha [Universal Cosmic Man]; Him whom Indra propagated in the four quarters of the Universe; He is the One by realising whom the realised masters become immortal; even while they are alive: there is no other way known for liberation. There is no other way to mend the sense of separation from the world around us.

Yajnena yajna maya janta devaah Taani dharmaani pratha maany-aahsan Te ha naakam mahi maanah sachante Yatra poorve saadhyaah sandhi devaah 18 The devas worshiped the lord of all yagnas [tapas and sacrifices]. Therefore yagna [dedicated sacrifices] and [righteousness] became the noblest things in the world. The heaven, where earlier performers [saadhaya] of these yagna live, it is where the present performers of yagnas will reside.

Adh bhyah sam bhootah priti vyai rasaa cha. Vishva karmanah sama varta taadhi. Tasya tvashtaa vidadhad roopameti. Tat purushasya vishva maajaa namagre. Vedaaha metam purusham mahaan tam. Aaditya varnam tamasah parastaat. Tame vam vidvaan amruta iha bhavati. Naanyah pantaa vidyate yanaaya. Creation was designed by the Cosmic Engineer. Therefore he is titled Tvashta. He is the first unit to become Man. The one who realises this cosmic truth about creation the secret of which lies within himself, whose nature is brilliant like the sun and beyond darkness, he experiences his own immortality in this life. There is no other way to reach this truth, except through self-inquiry and unfoldment. Purusha Suktam 187

Prajaa patish charati garbhe antah. Ajaaya maano bahu dhaa vijaa yate. Tasya dheeraah parijaa nanti yonim. Marichee nam pada micchanti vedhasah. The creator Brahma in whose womb the entire creation resides is unknown to worldly man. The one, who takes the trouble to inquire into this mystery, he alone can gain the experience of his oneness with the whole.

Yo devebhya aatapati. Yo devaa naam puro hitah. Poorvo yo devebhyo jaatah. Namo ruchaaya braahmaye. Salutations to the lord who is the first before creation Rucham braahmam janayantah. Devaa agre tada bruvan. Yast vaivam braahmano vidyaat. Tasya devaa asan vashe.

The creatures [celestials and rishis] offer salutations to Brahman [God].

Hreesh cha te lakshmeesh cha patnyau. Aho raatre paarshve. Naksha traani roopam. Ash vinau vyaap tam. May You protect us always

Ishtam mani shaana. Amum mani shaana. Sarvam mani shaana. Om Shaantih Shaantih Shaantih

May you protect and fulfill all our desires 188 The Cosmic Connection

12. Vedic Arati Mantra

Om Raajaadhi Raajaaya prasahya Saahine Namo Vayam vai Shrava naaya Kurma he Sam ekaaman Kaama Kaamaaya Mahyam Kaam eshvaro vai shravano dadhaatu Kubhe raaya vai shrava naaya Mahaa raajaaya Namah

Om Na karmanaa na prajayaa dhanena Tyaage naike amrutat tvam aanashuh Parena naakam nihitam guhaa yaam Vibhraa jad etad yatayo vishanti Vedaanta vignyaana sunish chit-aarthaah Sannyaasa yogaat yatayash shudha satvaah Te brahma loke tu paraanta kaale Paramrutaat pari much yanti sarve Dha ram vipaapam paramesh ma bhutam Yat pundari kam pura madhya sag gas tham Tatr aapi dahram gaga nam visho kah: Tasmin yadan tas tadu paa sita vyam Yo vedaadau svarah prokto vedante cha pratish thitah Tasya prakruti linasya yah parassa mahesh varah Immortality is neither gained through all fields of work, nor through progeny, nor by renunciation alone. Higher than heaven, seated in the divine cave of the intellect, it shines, which the true seekers search for and attain. Only those of pure mind who strive through a path of renunciation, arrive to ascertain with clarity that which the knowledge impresses upon, in the theme of all the Upanishads. They, in the end, achieve oneness in the world of Brahman. Only they liberate themselves from all actions and attain the highest immortality.

Na tatra saryo bhaati na chandra taarakam Nemaa vidyuto bhaanti kutoíyamagnih Tameva bhaantam-anubhaati sarvam

188 Vedic Arati Mantra 189

Tasya bhaasaa sarva midam vibhaati There the sun does not shine, neither do the moon nor stars, nor even the lightning; how come then this earthly light? In truth, everything shines after Him who alone shines! His light alone illumines this world. Om hara hara namah parvati pataye Hara hara mahaadev Shri Sadgurunaath Maharaj Ki Jay. Salutations to Mother Parvati and Her consort Mahadev Salutations to their earthly representative, Our Guru. 13. Sharda Stotram

Namaste Shaarade Devi Kaashmeera pura vaasini; Tvaama ham praarthaye nityam Vidya daanam cha dehi me O devi Sharada who lives in Kashmeerpura I pray to you daily. Please grant me knowledge.

Yaa Shraddhaa Dharanaa Medhaa, Vaag devee Vidhi vallabhaa; Bhakta jihvaa grasadnaa Shamaa diguna daayinee. She who is faith, conviction, and retentive power of the mind, O deity of speech, who is the consort of Brahmaji, who resides on the tongue of the devotee, please grant me these qualities and peace.

Namaami yaaminee naatha Lekha alankrita kunta laam; Bhava neem bhava santaapa Nirvaapana sudhaana deem. I prostrate to Bhavani who has the crescent moon in her hair and who is the nectare river for cooling the scorching heat of samsara.

Bhadra kaalyai namo nityam Sarasvat yai namo namah; Veda Vedaanga Vedaanta vidyaa sthaane bhya eva cha. Namaskara to Bhadrakali, to Sarasvati, the Vedas, and Vedanta, which are all receptacles of knowledge.

Brahma svaroopaa paramaa Jyoti roopaa Sanaatanee Sarva vidyaadhi devee yaa Tasyai Vaanyai namo namah Prostrations to Vaani who is Brahmaswarupa Supreme, who is illumination and ancient and who is the presiding deity of all branches of knowledge.

Yayaa vinaa jagat sarvam Shashvat jeevan mritam bhavet; Jnaanadhi devee yaa tasyai Sarasvat yai namo namah Without her, the whole universe is as though dead even when alive. She is the deity of knowledge. Prostrations to her who is Sarasvati.

Yaya vina jagat sarvam Mookam unmatta vat sada; Yaa Devee Vaaga dhish tha tree Tasyai Vaanyai namo namah. Prostrations to Vaani, who is the presiding deity of speech of Vedas, without whom the whole world is dumb and insane.

190 14. Saraswati Puja Vidhi

Sit in front of the altar with puja materials ready before performing puja with your right hand. While lighting the lamp, offer salutations to Lord Ganesha or Vigneshvara by chanting: You can start no pujas without invoking Ganesh, the Lord of Intelligence who ensures the puja will be done right. 1) Vighneshvar dhyaanam Think of Vigneshvar, Lord Wisdom or Ganapati. Chant the following as you think of the Lord of Supreme Cosmic Intelligence. You are telling Him that His head is like the inside of your own brain and His trunk is like your own spinal cord. Note that His eyes are half shut but He can see everything! His ears are large and can hear the whole worldís whispers. He has a tiny mouth because he says very little. In His four hands He carries the promises of truthful living.

Om suklaam bar dharam vishnum sashi varanam chatur bhujam Prasanna vadanam dhyaayet sarva vighnopa shaantaya I meditate on Vishnu who is dressed in white, has a moonlike countenance, has four arms and an enchanting face and who prevents all obstacles in the seekerís path. 2) Aachamanam Make a hollow in the right palm by bending all fingers except thumb and littlest finger. Take water in the hollow of the palm and sip it each time while reciting each of the following mantras: By sipping water, you are giving ëformí to your wish to do this puja. Recall also that you will call upon Vishnu as Keshav, Narayana, Madhav and Govinda to sit at your altar as you prepare to honour the lady of learning and controlled speech: Sarasvati.

Om kesavaaya svaahaa Om naaraayanaaya svaahaa Om maadhavaaya svahaa I offer this puja to Keshava, Narayana and Madhava.

191 192 The Cosmic Connection

Wash right palm with water. Next touch right ear with right palm and say: Om govindaaya namaha My salutations to Govinda. 3) Digbandhaha This act is to create a shell around you and the puja area; the purpose is to repel all interruptions from the three worlds [physical, astral like wandering thoughts, and heavenly]. With right index finger pointing upward above head, move it in a circle as you say:

Om bhur-bhuvah-suvaha 4) Praanayaamah This act steadies the breathing, which may be erratic due to nervousness, as you embark on the journey of Sarasvati puja. Shut the left nostril with the ring finger of the right hand. Breathe deeply through the right nostril. Next close the right nostril with the right thumb.

While holding the breath in inspiration, mentally chant Om 33 times. Now breathe out or exhale through the left nostril. 5) Puja sankalpaha You are now declaring your wish and intent that you are starting this puja. Take water and tulasi leaf in your right cupped hand, which rests on your right knee. Cover it with a cupped left hand and chant this mantra. Contemplate that you are now seated and are asking the Lords for help in time and space for an auspicious prayer session. Then offer your respects to your Guru. Notify them and Sarasvati that you are now starting the puja.

Om mamo paatta duri takshaya dvaara shri paramesh vara prit yartham Asmin subha muharte gyana vai raagya sidh yartham Vidya vinaya praap tyartham Shri sadguru prasaada sidh yartham cha Shri sarasvati pujaam karishye

I perform this puja to nullify all my sins and for the love and devotion I have for my Lord. I perform this puja at [time and place]. I perform the puja to gain knowledge and renunciation of my desires. I want this knowledge in humility. I seek the grace of the Guru. Saraswati Puja Vidhi 193

Now pour the water and tulasi through the fingertips into a dish. 6) Ghantaa nadaha Ring the bell and chant the following. It is requesting that you are asking the divine to come in whatever form you are invoking to remove the evils from the surroundings. (Unknown to us, just as bacteria surround us, in the same way there are some harmful vibrations in our midst. These are not aggressively harmful, but the is warning them off anyway).

Aagam aartham tu devaa naam gaman aartham tu raksha saam Kurte ghantaa ravam tatra devataa hvaana lakshanam I ring the bell to call for the Goddess to protect me. 7) Shri ganesh guru smaranam First think of Ganesh and offer Him your respects and also towards your Guru or Master. Now chant the following mantras while contemplating on the Light of Cosmic Intelligence who looks all twisted-up but is firmly in control. He has all the materialistic gifts firmly belted onto His big earth-like belly. He can undo the serpentís tightness at will and has all desires responding to His ultimate command.

Tatra aadau sarva vigno-pashaan taye Shri vignesh varam smaraami First of all I remember Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles to remove all impediments in my path.

Vakra tunda mahaa kaaya Surya koti samprabha Nirvi gnam kuru me deva Sarva kaar yeshu sarvadaa Om shri mahaa gana pataye namaha I salute to the great Lord Ganesha who has an elephantís face, a large body, and whose lustre exceeds the glow of thousand suns. I pray You allow my efforts to become free of all obstacles. Now offer Him a flower at His feet. Now think of Ganesh representing the Preceptor or Teacher or Guru. Tell Him that He represents all the devas as well as the Holy Trinity (Brahma-Vishnu-Shiva and their Consorts).

Gurur brahmaa gurur vishnuh gurur devo mahesh varaha Gurur saakshaat param brahmaa tasmai shree namaha 194 The Cosmic Connection

Om shri guru bhyo namah My salutations to the Guru who is Brahma, Vishnu and Maheshvara. I salute to the Guru who is Brahman Himself. Om I prostrate to Sri Guru. Offer Him a flower at His feet. 8) Devataa-dhyaanam You are now declaring that you are starting to concentrate on the devata you will honour at this puja. Chant the following while contemplating on Sarasvati from head to toe: first Her total beauty, then Her wise and peaceful face, then Her beautiful ornaments worn to enhance the loveliness of Her beautiful white sari. Think of Her veena as She sits on the lotus. Now recall Her blue, purple and green plummaged peacock. Even the devas (including Brahma Vishnu and Shankar) are adoring Her.

Yaa kundendu tushara haara davalaa yaa shubra vastra avritaa Yaa vinaa vardand mandita karaa yaa shveta padmaa sanaa Yaa brahma achyuta shankara prabhritih deveis sadaa vanditaa Saa maam paatu sarasvati bhagavati nishesha jaad yaa pahaa Oh Goddess who wears a garland of precious stones, who is adorned in white, who carries a veena in Her hand, who sits on a seat of a white lotus, who is adored by Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva, please remove the hold maya has on me. Please free me of Your power of illusion. Please free me from all ideas of delusion. 9) Devataa aavaahanam Touch your chest with the left hand and touch Her feet with the right hand as you chant the following. While offering your love and respect and faith, ask Her that She give you the boons of controlled speech and perfection in your search for knowledge.

Aagach cha deva deveshe tejo raashe jagaj jani Kriyaa maa naam mayaa pujaam grihana surasa sadtame Om shri sarasvat yai namah Aavaa ha yaami Oh Godess of goddesses, who is Herself the ocean of light, Oh Mother of the universe, please accept my puja. I call upon Mother Sarasvati to come to me. 10) Aasanam Call for Sarasvati for the great favour for Her to sit at your altar for a little while. Offer Her a seat to sit in front of you. Place a flower or akshataa (at Her feet) to show where you want Her to sit. Now chant the wish in Sanskrit as you Saraswati Puja Vidhi 195

tell Her all what you want to say.

Naanaa ratna samaa yuktam kaarta svara vibhu shitam Aasanam deva devese priit yartham prati grihya taam Om shri sarasvat yai namah Aasanam samarpayaami I request that the Mother accept this decorated seat offered to Her by me; please be seated on this seat

You will now serve Sarasvati by washing Her feet, giving Her water to wash Her mouth and for Her bath. You will mentally offer Her a clean set of clothes, some gandha (sandalwood paste), akshata (yellowed rice with kumkum which symbolise lots of flowers), and pushpam or garland of flowers. 11) Paadyam Offer a spoonful of water at the Deviís feet as you chant the following

Gangaadi sarva tirthe bhyaho, mayaa praar thana yaa hrutam Toyam me tat sukha sparsham, paad yaartham prati grihya taam Om shri sarasvatyai namaha Paadyam samarpayaami I request that the Mother allow Her feet to be washed by the waters of Ganga and other sacred rivers. While I wash Your feet, I offer You my salutations. 12) Arghyam Offer a spoonful of water while chanting the following:

Namaste deve deveshe namaste dharani dhare Namaste jagadaa dhaare arghyam nah prati griha taam Om shri sarasvatyai namhah arghyam samarpayaami My prostration to the Goddess of goddesses, who is the supporter of earth and universe. Please accept this water to wash Your hands. While I offer the water, I offer to You Sri Sarasvati, my salutations. 13) Aachamanam Offer a spoonful of water while chanting the following: 196 The Cosmic Connection

Mandaa kiny aastu yad waari Sarva phala pradam Grihaa naa chama ni yam tvam Mayaa bhakti yaa nivedi tam Om shri sarasvatyai namaha Aachamanam samar payaami I request of the Mother to accept the waters from the Mandakini for You to drink Oh Giver of fruits of all actions of merit and demerit, I offer you my devotion. I salute Sri Sarasvati to whom I offer water for drinking. 14) Snaaniyam While gently sprinkling water on Her, chant the following:

Gangaa sarasvati revaa, payo shani narmadaa jalaihi Snaapi taasi mayaa devi, tathaa shaantim kuru shva me Om shri sarasvatyai namaha snaaniyam samarpayaami Oh Goddess Sarasvati, please accept this water, which comes from Ganga, Reva, Payoshni and the Narmada Rivers. I salute Sri Sarasvati to whom I offer water for bathing. 15) Abhishek (optional) If you have a picture then just sprinkle water If you have an idol you can wash, give it a bath and wipe it with a clean tissue. While bathing Her, chant the Purusha or Medha Sukta. 16) Vastram Offer Her clothes to wear with flowers, tulsi, and akshata While doing that, chant the following:

Sarva bhushaa dhike saumye Loka lajaa nivaara ne Mayop paadi te tu bhyam Vaa sasi svi kur shva cha Om shri sarasvatyai namaha Shubhra vastram samarpayaami Oh Mother please accept these clothes. It is You who is the paragon of modesty, O Beautiful One, please adorn Yourself. I salute the Mother while requesting that you accept these clothes. Saraswati Puja Vidhi 197

17) Gandha lepanam Make a paste of sandalwood powder and offer it at Her feet and forehead with your ring finger on the right hand

Shri khandam chanda nam divyam, gandhaa dayam sumano haram Vil panam sura shreshte, chandanam prati grihya tam Om shri sarasvatyai namaha Divya gandham samar payaami May the divine Mother accept this fragrant sandalwood paste, which enchants even the mind. While prostrating to You, please allow me to apply this across Your forehead. 18) Akshataa Offer colour-smeared rice at Her feet and chant the following:

Akshataas tandu laaha shubhraaha, kum-kumena viraa jitaah Mayaa nive ditaa bhak tyaa, grihaan param eshvari Om shri sarasvatyai namaha Akshataan samar-payaami May the divine Mother accept this rice and kum-kum paste. It is being offered with deep devotion. My offering of rice is with extreme devotion. 19) Pushpam Offer Her a flower or a garland of flowers and chant the following:

Mano haraani divyaani, sugandhini priyaani cha Mayaa hri taani pushpaani, gr haan karunaa nidhe Om shri sarasvatyai namaha Pushpaani samar-payaami Oh Mother of compassion, please accept these flowers, which are not only fragrant but are liked by all because of their enchanting beauty. 20) Archanaa This part is optional You may do Her naama-vali of 108 names or even just Her first twelve names from the list given at the end of this puja. 21) Dhoopaha Light the dhoopa (incense sticks) off the lamp fire and raise it to the level of Her nose; at the same time ring the bell with your left hand. 198 The Cosmic Connection

Vanaspati rasod bhatah, gandhayo gandha utamah Aagre yaha sarva deva naam, hupo ayam prati grihya tam Om shri sarasvatyai namaha Dhupam aagraa payaami Oh Mother, accept this incense, which has been made from the sap of the most fragrant plants. I salute Sri Sarasvai as I offer this incense to You. 22) Deepaha Light the lamp and raise it to the level of Her eyes without waving it; at the same time ring the bell with your left hand.

Dipam grihaam deveshe varti traya saman vitam Andha kaare namastu bhyam, agyaanam vini vartaya Om shri sarasvatyai namaha Deepam darsha-yaami As I offer the lighted lamp, I salute You who removes all darkness. I salute You Sri Sarasvati with this lamp. 23) Naivedyam Sprinkle a little water on the ground in front of Her while chanting AUM. Place the naivedyam and half a tulsi leaf on the plate and use the other half of the leaf at Her feet. Now chant the following:

Naivedyam grihya taam devi, bhaktim me hay chalam kuru Ipsitam me varam dehi, nitya tripte namostute Om shri sarasvatyai namaha Naivedyam nivedayaami Please accept the food prepared in devotion for Your pleasure. I salute Sri Sarasvati as this food offering is being made to You.

Next feed Her by raising the tulasi [naivedyam] to Her mouth and transform the food to prasaad. With palm facing downwards, allow the thumb to touch each of the fingers as you chant the following: Om pranaaya svaahaa littlest finger Om apanaya svaahaa ring finger Om vyaanaaya svaahaa middle finger Om udaanaaya svaahaa index finger Om samaanaaya svaahaa all fingers Om brahmane svaahaa all fingers Saraswati Puja Vidhi 199

24) Mangala niraajanam Light camphor and while standing wave it left to right: once in front of Her face, next in front of Her chest and then at Her feet. Next wave it three times in a clockwise manner right around Her. Repeat this several times with your right hand while ringing the bell with your left hand. Chant the following as you do the aarti.

Om na tatra suryo bhaati na chandra taara-kam Nemaa vidhyuto bhaanti kuto ayam agnihi Tam eva bhaantam anu bhaati sarvam Tasya bhaasaa sarva midam vi bhaati Om shri sarasvatyai namaha Mangala niraa janam samar payaami There the sun does not shine, neither do the moon nor stars, nor even the lightning; how then can this earthly light? In truth, everything shines after Him who alone shines! His light alone illumines this world. Next place the plate down and with both your palms take the flames in the cup of your hands; next raise your palms to your eyes for Her blessings and giving Her your salutations. 25) Pushpaanjalim While still standing, take some flowers (or akshata) in both your hands and offer flowers at Her feet. At this time chant the following:

Bho devi sarva lokeshe Nana pushpa saman vitam Pushpaan jalim pradaa syaami Grihaa nedam mayaa pritam Om shri sarasvatyai namaha Pushpaan jalim samar payaami Oh Mother in whose presence all the world blossoms, I beg of You to accept this handful of flowers. I salute Sri Sarasvati as I make this offering of flowers. 26) Pradakshina namaskaaram With joined hands and standing at one spot, turn clockwise three times and chant the following. At the end prostrate at Her feet:

Yaani kaani cha paapaani Janmaan tara kritaani cha Taani taani vinashyanti 200 The Cosmic Connection

Pradikshna pade pade Om shri sarasvatyai namaha Pradakshina namas kaaraan samarpayaami All my sins of all past births, may the Mother negate them while I offer this puja to You. I salute Sri Sarasvati as I circumambulate around You. 27) Raajopachaarah Here you raise an umbrella over Her. Now you may offer Her entertainment with , music, or dance. This is optional. 28) Praarthanaa Now sit down and pray. First pour water at Her feet and chant the following:

Kayena vaachaa manasen indriyai va Budhya atmanaa vaa prakrites sva bhaavaat Karomi yadat sakalam parasmai Narayanaa yeti samarpayaami Om tat sat Brahm-aarpanam astu Whatever is performed by this body, mind and intellect, I dedicate my everything that is innate in my nature, to the supreme Lord Narayana. 29) Udvaasnam Now let Her return to Her usual abode and also chant the following:

Yataa staanam pratishthaa payaami 30) Digvi-moksha Om bhur bhuvas svar aum 31) Shanti mantra Om purnamadah purnamidam purnaaat purna mudachyate Purnasya purna maadaaya purnam eva vashish yate Om shaanti shaanti shaantihi Harihi aum shri gurubhyo namah Harihi aum The Whole is all that. The Whole is all this. The Whole was born of the whole. Taking whole from the whole, what remains is the whole. Saraswati Puja Vidhi 201

Sarasvati Naamaavali aum sarasvatyai namaha Namaskar to Saraswati aum mahaa bhadrayai namaha Namaskar to one who is most auspicious aum mahaa maayayai namaha Namaskar to the great maya enchantress aum vara pradaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who grants boons aum shri pradaayai namaha Prostrations to one who is auspicious aum padma nilayayai namaha Prostrations to one who resides on the lotus aum padmaa kshyai namaha Prostrations to one who has eyes like those of a lotus aum padma vaktra kaayai namaha Prostrations to her who has a face as beautiful as a lotus aum shivaa nujaayai namaha Prostrations to one who is Shivaís sister aum pustaka bhrte namaha Prostrations to one who holds books 10 aum gyaana mudraa yai namaha Prostrations to one who assumes her hands in gyana mudra aum ramaayai namaha Prostrations to one who is Rama Lakshmi aum paraayai namaha Prostrations to one who is Supreme aum kaama rupaayai namaha Prostrations to one of loveable form aum mahaa vighnaa yai namaha Prostrations to one of great knowledge aum mahaa paataka naashinyai namaha Prostrations to one who removes sins of devotees aum mahaa shra yayai namaha Prostrations to one who lives in the great abode aum maalin yai namaha Prostrations to one who wears garlands aummahaa bhogaa yai namaha 202 The Cosmic Connection

Prostrations to one who is a great enjoyer of pleasure aum mahaa bhujaa yai namaha 20 Prostrations to one who has great arms aum mahaa bhaagaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who has Lordly powers aum maho tsaa haa yai namaha Prostrations to one who is always inspired aum divyaa ngaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who has divinely beautiful limbs aum sura vandi taayai namaha Prostrations to one whom all devotees worship aum mahaa kaala yai namaha Prostrations to one who absorbs Time aum mahaa paashaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who has the binding rope aum mahaa kaaraa yai namaha Prostrations to one who has a great form aum mahaan kushaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who bears with her weapons to goad devotees aum pitaayai namaha Prostrations to one who is also a father figure aum vimalaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who is ever pure aum vishvaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who is the Universe aum vidhyun maalaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who is like a flash of lightning aum vaish navyai namaha Prostrations to one who is Vishnuís sister aum chandrikaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who is like the moonlight aum chandra vadanaa yai namaha Prostrations to one whose face is like the moon aum chandra lekhaa vibhu shitaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who is adorned with moonbeams aum saavitr yai namaha Prostrations to one who is like the sun [savitri] aum sutra saa yai namaha Prostrations to one who is common thread in all Saraswati Puja Vidhi 203 aum devyai namaha Prostrations to one who is effulgent like Light aum divyaa lan kaara bhoo shitaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who is adorned with divine ornaments 40 aum vaag devyai namaha Prostrations to one who is the deity of Speech aum vasu daayai namaha Prostrations to one who is a bestower of wealth aum tiivraa yai namaha Prostrations to one who is intense by nature aum mahaa bhadraa yai namaha Prostrations to one who is auspicious aum mahaa balaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who is of great strength aum bhoga daa yai namaha prostrations to one who bestows enjoyment aum bhaarat yai namaha Prostrations to one who is Bharati or Knowledge aum bhamaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who is a beautiful woman aum govindaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who revels in the senses as life-force aum goma tyai namaha Prostrations to one who is named Gomati 50 aum shivaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who is auspicious aum jati laa yai namaha Prostrations to one who has beautiful hair aum vindyaa vaa saa yai namaha Prostrations to one who reside in the Vindyaa mountains aum vindyaa chala viraa jitaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who lives in Vindyaa aum chandikaa yai namaha Prostrations to one whose name is Chandika aum vaisnav yai namaha Prostrations to one who is Vishnuís sister aum braaham yai namaha Prostrations to one who is Brahmaís consort aum brahma gyaanai kasaa dhanaa yai namaha 204 The Cosmic Connection

Prostrations to one who is the only means to get Brahma gyana aum sau daa manyai namaha Prostrations to one who is a beautiful damsel aum sudhaa murt yai namaha Prostrations to one whose sweet form is like nectar 60 aum su bhadraa yai namaha Prostrations to one who is auspicious aum sura puji taa yai namaha Prostrations to one who is worshipped by gods aum suvaa sinyai namaha Prostrations to one who is sumangali and lives with her husband aum sunaa saayai namaha Prostrations to one who has a beautiful nose aum vini draa yai namaha Prostrations to one who has no ignorance aum padma lochanaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who has eyes shaped as lotusses aum vidyaa rupaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who is of the nature of Knowledge aum vishaa laaksh yai namaha Prostrations to one who has large eyes aum brahma jaayaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who is the consort of Brahmaji aum mahaa falaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who grants great results 70 aum trayi murta ye namaha Prostrations to one whose very form is the Vedas aum trikaal gyaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who knows the present, past and future aum tri gunaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who is the three gunas ñ tamas, rajas and sattva aum shastra rupin yai namaha Prostrations to one whose form is the aum shumbh aasura pramatin yai namaha Prostrations to one who destroyed the asura Shumbha aum shubha daayai namaha Prostrations to one who grants goodness, auspiciousness and welfare aum svar atmikaa yai namaha Prostrations to one whose form are the svaras or sound Saraswati Puja Vidhi 205 aum rakta bija nihan trai namaha Prostrations to one who killed the demon Raktabij aum chaamundaa yai namaha Prostrations to one whose name is Chamunda aum ambikaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who is mother Ambika 80 aum munda kaaya prahar naayai namaha Prostrations to one who destroyed the demon Munda aum dhumra lochana mada naa yai namaha Prostrations to one who destroyed the demon Dhumralochana aum sarva deva stutaa yai namaha Prostrations to one to whom the devas sing your glories aum saumya yai namaha Prostrations to one who is of a pleasing nature aum suraa sura namas kritaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who is worshipped by devas and demons aum kaala raatra yai namaha Prostrations to one who is the great dissolution in pralaya aum kalaa dharaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who wears the crescent moon aum rupa sau bhaagya daayin yai namaha Prostrations to one who grants beauty and good fortune aum vaag devyai namaha Prostrations to one who is the deity of speech aum varaaro haayai namaha Prostrations to one who is the consort of Varaha 90 aum vaaraa hyai namaha Prostrations to one who is Vishnuís beloved aum vaari jaasa naayai namaha Prostrations to one who is seated on a lotus aum chitraam baraayai namaha Prostrations to one who wears beautiful garments aum chitrang dhaayai namaha Prostrations to one who is principle of intelligence aum chitra maalya vibhu shitaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who is adorned with beautiful garlands aum kaantaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who is attractive aum kaama pradaa yai namaha 206 The Cosmic Connection

Prostrations to one who grants desires aum vandhyaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who is worshipful aum vidyaa dhara supujitaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who is worshipped by vidyadharas aum shvetaan naa yai namaha Prostrations to one who has a lovely face 100 aum nila bhujaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who has blue arms aum chatur varga fala pradaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who grants the four purusharthas [dharma, artha, kama, moksha] aum chaturaa nana saamraaj yaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who rules the four worlds aum rakta ma dhyaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who is reddish in hue aum niran janaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who is untainted aum hansaa sanaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who is swanlike aum nila janga ghaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who stands mighty aum brahma vishnu shiv aatmikaa yai namaha Prostrations to one who is the soul of Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva 108 Aum Aum Aum Mantra Pushpam 207

15. Mantra Pushpam

Om yoapaam pushpam veda pushpavaan prajavaan pashumaan bhavati Chandramaa vaa apaam pushpam pushpavaan prajaavaan pashumann bhavati Ya evam ved; yo-apaam aayata nam ved; aayata-navaan bhavati 1 One who knows the flower, which has arisen from the water [source of life in creation], he himself, blooms like a flower, and becomes successful all around; he is therefore endowed with good progeny. He understands that the moon is a flower, which has arisen from water and nourishes plants and creatures with lifeís nectar and sunlight. The one who knows the source or base of the water [apaam] is blessed with the abode of liberation and will not return because of mukti.

Agnirvaa apaamaaya-tanam aayata-navaan bhavati Yo agneir raayatanam ved; aayatanvaan bhavati Aapo va agnair-aayatanam; aayatanvaan bhavati Ya evam ved; yo-apaam-aayata-nam ved, aayata navaan bhavati 2 He who knows the source of the water becomes entitled to liberation. He knows that within the womb of water is Fire [as lightening and energy but also present in the heavens as the sun and the moon]. The one who knows this [that agni is the most perfect God that perfects and purifies with its dynamic life energy] and also knows the source of water [also a manifested energy of Brahman] is entitled to the permanent abode of liberation. The immediate substratum of water is air and the one who knows that is also entitled to the abode of no return or mukti.

Vaayurvaa apaamaaya-tanam; aayata-navaan bhavati Yo vaayor raayatanam ved; aayatanvaan bhavati Aapo vai vayora rayatanam; aayatanavaan bhavati Ya evam ved; yo-apaam-aayatanam ved aayatanvaan bhavati 3 Water [food] is the substratum of vayu [breath of life or prana]. The one who knows that and the ultimate source of water is assigned the abode of liberation. The sun is indeed the source of water [as rain clouds]. The one who knows this as also the abode of the sun [as being fire,and the provider of light to remove inner and outer darkness] , is bestowed with the permanent abode of

207 208 The Cosmic Connection

liberation. Water indeed is the abode and the source of the sun [link between the cosmos and the supra-cosmic reality].

Asau vai tapna-paam aaya-tanam aayata-navaan bhavati Yo amushya tapat aayatanam ved aayatanvaan bhavati Aapo vaa amushya tapat ayatanam; aayatnavaan bhavati Ya evam ved; yoapaam-aayatanam ved aayatanvaan bhavati 4 The source of the waters is the sun [tapan] who is responsible for the rainclouds as well as for dispelling physical and spiritual darkness. The one who knows this is bestowed with liberation.

Chandra ma vaa apaamaaya-tanam aayata-navaan bhavati Yash-chandramas aayatanam ved aayatanvaan bhavati Aapo vai chandramsa ayatanam aayatnavaan bhavati Ya evam ved; yoapaam-aayatanam ved aayatanvaan bhavati 5 He who understands this relationship as ultimate source of water is blessed with the permanent abode. The immediate source of waters from the nectar loaded moon that influences plants and trees, to attract rains to supply earth with water. Water indeed is substratum of moon. One who knows this is blessed with immortality.

Nakshatraani vaa apaamaaya-tanam aayata-navaan bhavati Yo nakshatraan aayatanam ved aayatanvaan bhavati Aapo vai nakshatraa-naam ayatanam; aayatanvaan bhavati Ya evam ved; yo-apaam-aayatanam ved aayatanvaan bhavati 6 The one who knows the ultimate source of the substratum of water is blessed with immortality. The stars and the constellations [nakshatra] are also be considered abode of water. The domicile of stars is blessed with immortality. Water indeed is sourced from moon and stars. One who knows this is blessed with liberation or mukti.

Parjanyo vaa apaam-aaya-tanam aayata-navaan bhavati Yah parjanyasya aya-tanam ved aayatanvaan bhavati Aapo vai pajanyasya-aayatnam ayatanam aayatnavaan bhavati Ya evam ved; yoapaam-aayatanam ved aayatanvaan bhavati 7 The immediate source of water is the raincloud. One who knows this as also the source of the raincloud [parjanya] is blessed with liberation. Water is indeed the substratum of the raincloud. The one who knows this relationship and the source of water is bestowed with immortality. Mantra Pushpam 209

Sam-vatsaro vaa apaamaaya-tanam aayata-navaan bhavati Yas sam-vatsar-syaaya-tanam ved aayatanvaan bhavati Aapo vai sam-vatsar-sya aayatnam; aayatan-vaan bhavati Ya evam ved; yopsu-naavam pratishti-taam veda; prat-yeva tishtati 8 The year, which forms a major unit of Time, is the based upon which water rests for its interaction with the various elements of nature. The one who knows this relationship and the substratum of Time gets endowed with immortality. Conversely, the year has water for its substratum. The one who knows this relationship also knows that the universe is a boat floating on the all-pervading waters and remains firmly established in this abode.

Om raja-dhi-rajaya pras-hyaasine, namo vyam vaishvanaya kurmahe Sa mei kaamaanka-makaa-maya mahiyam Kameshvaro vaish-shravano dadhatu Kuberaya vaishrava-naya maharajaya namah Om shanti shanti shantihi 210 The Cosmic Connection

16. Kashi Viswanath Stotram

Gangaa ramaneeya jataa kalaa pam Gauree nirantara vibhooshita vaama bhaagam Naaraayana priyam ananga madaa pahaaram Vaaraanasi pura patim bhaja Vishva naatham Worship Sri Viswanath, the Lord of Benares, whose locks look charming with the ripples of Ganga; who is the destroyer of Kamadevaís pride; who is ever adorned on His left by Gowri (the Divine Mother)

Vaachaam agocharam aneka guna svaroopam Vaageesha Vishnu sura sevita paada peetham Vaamena vigraha varena kala travan tam Vaara nasi pura patim bhaja Vishva naatham Worship Sri Viswanath; the Lord of Benares, who is beyond speech, the repository of various attributes: whose feet are worshipped by Brahma, Vishnu and other Gods, and who has His wife (Gowri) on His left.

Bhootaa dhipam bhujaga bhooshita bhooshita angam Vyaaghra ajinaam baradharam jatilam trinetram Paasaam kusaa bhaya vara prada soola paanim Vaara nasi pura patim bhaja Vishva naatham Worship Sri Viswanatha; the Lord of Benares, who is beyond speech, the repository of various attributes; whose feet are worshipped by Brahama, Vishnu and other Gods, and who has His wife (Gouri) on His left.

Sheetamshu shobhita kireeta viraaja maanam Bhaalek shanaanala vishoshita pancha bhaanam Naagaadhi paara chita bhaasura karna pooram Vaaraanasi pura patim bhaja Vishva naatham Worship Sri Viswanatha, the wielder of the trident, the Lord of Benares and of the demi-gods, adorned by a snake, who wears a tiger-skin and has matted locks, the three-eyed One; who holds the noose and the hooked-spear in two of His hands, and who with the other two offers boon and protection.

Pancaa nanam durita matta matam gajaanaam

210 Kashi Viswanath Stotram 211

Naa gaanta kam danuja pungava panna gaanaam Daavaa nalam marana soka jaraata viinaam Vaaraanasii pura patim bhaja visva naatham Worship Sri Viswanath, the lord of Benares, adorned with a crown beautified by the moon; who burnt Cupid to ashes by the ìfireî emerging from His ìeyeî in the forehead, and whose ears are adorned with shinning rings of Sesha, the king of serpants.

Tejo mayam saguna nirgunam advitee yam Aananda kandam aparaa jitam apra meyam Naaga atmakam sakala nish kalam aatma roopam Vaaraanasi pura patim bhaja Vishva naatham Worship Sri Viswanath, the Lord of Benares, the Five-faced One, the lion that destroyes the mad elephant of sin, the Garuda that destroys the vicious demons, the wild fire that burns to ashes the forest of birth, death and old age.

Aashaam vihaaya pari hrutya parasya nin daam Paape ratim cha suni vaarya manah samaadau Aadaaya Hrut kamala madhya gatam paresham Vaaraanasi pura patim bhaja Vishva naatham Worship Sri Viswanatha, the Lord of Benares, who is effulgent, who is both with and without qualities, the One (without-a-second) who is Bliss itself ñ the Unconquerable One, the Unknowable One - adorned by a serpant, who is both with and without parts (or phases) and who is Self .

Raagaadi dosha rahitam svajana anu raagam Vairaagya shaanti nilayam girijaa sahaa yam Maadhurya dhairya subhaagam garal aabhiraa mam Vaaraanasi pura patim bhaja Vishva naatham Having renounced all desires, having given up reviling other, attaching the mind to Samadhi and meditating on the Lord seated in the lotus of the heart, Worship Sri Viswanath, the Lord of Benares.

Vaaraanasee pura patheh stavanam Shivasya Vyakhya tam ashtaka midam pathate manush yah Vidyaam Shriyam Vipula saukhyam ananta keertim Sam praapya deha vilaye labhate cha moksham Worship Sri Viswanath, the Lord of Benares, who is free from all dual throngs like attachment and hatred, etc. He who is fond of His devotees, lives in the abode of renunciation and bliss. He is the companion of Girija, who is Herself endowed with the virtues, sweetness and patience. He looks beautiful with His throat stained with the poison. 212 The Cosmic Connection

17. Shri Shiva Puja

Sit cross-legged facing the Shiv-Linga with all the puja items (samagri). Make offerings with the right hand. 1) Vigneshvara dhyaanam Light the lamp and contemplate on Lord Ganapati while chanting:

Om shuklaam bara daram vishnum, shashi varnam chatur bhujam Prasan na vada nam dhyaa yet, sarva vighnopa shaanta ye Meditate on the Lord Ganesha who is all-pervasive Vishnu and bright like the moon and has four arms. His face is pleasant to look at. He is dressed in white and removes all obstacles. 2) Aacha-manam Take water in palm of right hand and sip one time with each mantra (three times). All names are of Krishna.

Om kesha vaaya svaahaa Prostrations to Keshava Om naaraaya naaya svaahaa Prostrations to Narayana Om maadha vaaya svaahaa Prostrations to Madhava Now wash hand with water and touch right ear wtih palm of right hand while saying the next mantra:

Om Govindaaya namaha Namaskar to Govinda 3) Praanaa yaamah Start with expiration and end with inspiration Use right handís thumb and ring finger to close off left and then right nostril. Close right nostril with thumb and inspire through left: Now close left nostril and expire through right nostril. Repeat thirty-three times while mentally chanting AUM.

212 Shri Shiva Puja 213

4) Bhur bhuva svar aum Mentally chant the above mantra 5) Sankalpaha Place tulsi (basil) and water in right hand and place hand on right palm. Now cover with the cup of the left hand. Now mentally chant. When finished spill the water into a container.

Om Mamo pathra samasta durit akshaya dwaaraa On this auspicious day at this proper time

shri param eshvara prith yar tham Asmin shubha dine shubha muhur te gyaana vai ragya sidh yar tham Vidhyaa vinaya praapt yar tham shri sad guru prasaad sidh yar tham cha Dhyaanaa vaahaa naadi shoda shopa chaa raihi shri jagad ishvara pujaam karish ye I perform the puja of Jagadishwara with the sixteen upcharas for the sake of i. washing off the demerits or sins earned by me, ii. to propitiate Sri Parameshwara iii. for gaining knowledge and dispassion iv. to learn the scriptures and gain humility v. to practice meditation and invocations and vi. to gain the prasada of sadguru by pleasing him 6) Ghantaa-naada While ringing the bell chant this mantra:

Aagama artham tu devaa naam, gama naartham tu raksha saam Kurve ghantaara vam tatra, devataa hvaana laksha nam I am inviting the devatas and asking the rakshasas to leave this place I ring the bell, which is a sign of my invitation to the devas. 7) Shri ganesh guru smaranam Contemplate as you chant the mantra

Tatra aadau sarva vigh nopa shaantaye, shri vignesh varam smar aami Vakra tunda mahaa kaaya, surya koti sama prabha Nirvigh nam kuru me deva, sarva kaar yeshu sarva daa 214 The Cosmic Connection

Then for the removal of all obstacles, I remember and pray to Sri Vignesh [Ganapati]. Oh Deva, who has the curved tusk, an immense body, who is brilliant like a million suns, please remove all the obstacles presenting themselves in all my actions and undertakings. While offering a flower say:

Om shri mahaa gana pataye namaha Gurur brahma gurur vishnu gurur devo mahesh varaha Guru saak shaat param brahma tasmai shri gurave namah Prostrations to Sri Maha Ganapati To Brahma the creator who is also Vishnu the protector and Maheshwara the cause of dissolution. He is the Trinity and beyond. He is the Supreme Brahman itself. Namaskar to that Guru who is all that. While offering a flower say:

Om shri guru bhyo namaha Prostrations to Sri Guru 8) Devata dhyanam With eyes shut, chant the following while contemplating on the Lord

Dhyaa yaami dakshinaa murtim, neela grivam tri lochanam Gangaa dharam umaa kaantam, nitya kal yaana rupi nam Gaukshira dhavalaa kaaram, chandra bimba samaan nam Bhasma bhoo shita sarv aangam, rudraak shaa bharanaa nvi tam Om shri saamba param eshvaram dhyaa yaami I meditate on the Lord Dakshinamurti, who has a blue neck, three eyes and bearing Ganga on his head. He has with him his beloved Uma of eternal auspiciousness. His form glows white like the cowís milk, his face radiates like the moon, and his entire body is smeared with the sacred ash. It is on this Parameshwara who is with Amba [Parvati] and is adorned with the rudraksha mala that I meditate upon. 9) Devata aavaa-hanam Touch your own chest with the left hand and touch the linga with your right hand and say:

Iha yehi gaurisha pinaa kapaane, sha shaanka maule vrishabh aadi rudha Devaadi devesha mahesha nityam, grhaana pujaam bhagavan namaste Shri Shiva Puja 215

Aavaa ha yaami deve sham, aadi madh yaanta var jitam Aadhaaram sarva lokaa naam, aashri taar tha pradaayi nam O Lord of Gauri, wielding the weapon of pinaka in the hand, having the moon on the head, riding the bull, O god of gods, O the Great all knowing Lord, I prostrate before you. Please accept this puja. I invoke you O Lord, one who is without beginning, middle or end, the support of the entire Universe and who grants to all devotees that they pray for.

Om shri jagadishvaraya namaha Aavaa ha yaami 10) Aasanam Offer a flower to the linga:

Vish vaat mane namastu bhyam, chidam bara nivaasine Ratna simhaasa nam chaaru, dadaami karunaa nide Om shri jagad ishvaraya namaha Aasana artham pushpam samar payaami O the Self of the entire universe who resides in the temple in Chidambaram [or in the space of chit or consciousness], I offer you a gem-studded throne. O abode of compassion, I offer flowers instead of the seat. 11) Paadyam Offer water to the linga to wash His feet.

Paadyam gru haana bhagavan, paava nam param eshvara Parvati hridayaa nanda, paapam sarvam vyapo haya Om shri jagad ishvaraya namaha Paadam samarpayaami O Bhagawan Parameshwara, O joy of Parvatiís heart, please accept this at your feet, which purifies and annuls all my sins. 12) Arghyam Offer a spoonful of water for washing of hands:

Arghyam gr haana girisha, gandha pushpa akshatair yutam Aghama gyaanam akhilam, nila kanta nivaaraya Om shri jagad ishvaraya namaha Arghyam samar payaami O Girisha, Lord of Kailash mountains, please accept this arghyam along with 216 The Cosmic Connection

the perfumes and the flowers and akshata. O Nilakantha, please remove from me all sins and ignorance. 13) Aachamanam Offer spoonful of water to drink and chant the following:

Grahaan aachamana arthaaya, gangaadi sari daa hritam Vimalam jala mi shaana, vyaadhin me vini vaara ya Om shri jagad ishvaraya namaha Aachamani yam samar payaami O Ishana [Shiva], please accept this water to wash your hands - it comes from Ganga and the other Rivers that are pure. They relieve me of all physical disease. 14) Panch-aamritam Offer panch-amratam [honey, milk, ganga jal, tulsi, yogurt] or water to the linga:

Panch amritam gr haane dam, pan nage shvara bhushana Pancha vaktra namastu bhyam, pancha paapaani naa shaya Om shri jagad ishvaraya namaha Panch amritam samar payaami O Lord who is adorned with the King of Serpents as your ornamaent, O Lord with five faces, [Sadyojatam, Vamadeva, Aghora, Tatpurusha, Ishana], please accept this panchamritam [milk, yoghurt, honey, ] and remove the fve great sins. Namaskar to You. 15) Snaa-ni-yam Sprinkle water on the linga:

Gangaa klina jataadhaara, somardha shekhara Sahya jaadi sarit to yaih, snaanam kuru sadaashiva Om shri jagad ishvaraya namaha Snaa niyam samar payaami O Sadashiva with matted hair that is wet with Ganga waters, who wears the half moon on His head, please have your bath with the waters from the rivers of the Sahya Mountains. 16) Abhishekha Bathe the linga with the panch-amratam or water You may want to chant the Sri Rudram at this time. Shri Shiva Puja 217

17) Vastram Offer a flower to the linga while chanting the following:

Gaja charma dharaa nanda, gara laan kita kan dhara Dukoolam grihya taam deva, durgati me nivaaraya Om shri jagadish varaya namaha Vastram samar payaami O Deva who is clothed in elephant skin, who is bearing the blue mark on your neck left by the poison you swallowed, please accept this garment and remove my evil fate. 18) Bhasma Apply ash or bhasma on the linga while chanting:

Agni hotra samud bhootam, vira jaa homa paavi tam Gr haan bhasma he svaamin, bhaktaa naam bhuti daayaka Om shri jagad ishvaraya namaha Bhasmam samarpayaami O Swami, O Lord who bestows wealth, name, fame and power on all devotees, please accept this bhasma produced from the Agnihotri Yagna and purified by the Virajna Homa. 19) Gandha-lepa-nam Apply sandalwood paste on the linga with the ring finger:

Gandham sam yuktam, mriga naabhi sam nvi tam Mahaadeva grhaan esha, mahaa paapa vi naasha nam Om shri jagad ishvaraya namaha Gandham samarpayaami O Mahadeva please accept this perfume and kumkuma and musk from the musk deer. Accepted by you, it will remove all sins. 20) Akshataa Offer yellowed rice:

Akshataa nakshata vibho, nakshatre ksha vibhushana Shuddhad sphatika sam kaasha, svaamin srikuru shankara Om shri jagad ishvaraya namaha Akshataan samar payaami 218 The Cosmic Connection

O Lord who is adorned with the constellations, the moon in your hair, swamin Shankara, shining like the pure crystal, please accept this akshata. 21) Pushpam While chanting what follows, offer a garland of flowers or just a flower:

Mallikaa kundv mandaar, kamalaa dini shankara Pushpaani bilva patraani, gr haana karuna nidhe Om shri jagad ishvaraya namaha Pushpaani samarpayami O Lord and storehouse of compassion, please accept these flowers and bilva leaves. 22) Bilva-patram Offer bilva leaf after every two of the following mantras:

Tridalam tri guna kaaram, tri netram tri dhaaya dham Tri janma paapa sam haaram, eka bilvam shiva arpanam Darshanam bilva patrasya, sparshnam paapa naasha nam Aghora paap sam haara, eka bilvam shiv arpanam Om shri jagad ishvaraya namaha Bilva patram samar payaami With this three petalled bilva leaf representing tamas, rajas and sattva, I offer this bilva leaf to Lord Shiva. I ask that the sins of my past three births be forgiven. It is said by seeing and touching the bilva leaf, all sins are destroyed. O Lord Aghora, you who are a destroyer of sins, I offer to you a bilva leaf. 23) Archanam Offer a flower or petals to the linga for 108 times by first touching your own heart: The 108 names are provided at the end of this puja.

Ashto trara shata naam puja 24) Dhupah Offer lit incense with right hand and ring bell with the left while chanting the following:

Dharaa dhar sutaa naatha, dur jate dhavala prabha Dupam aaghraa pyaa misha, dasha anga guggu laanvi tam Shri Shiva Puja 219

Om shri jagad ishvaraya namaha Dhupam agraa payaami O Lord of the daughter of Himavan, O Lord with matted locks who is effulgent with the white Light, O Lord Shiva?, please accept this dhupa with dashanaga and guggula [fragrant incense]. 25) Deepah Offer a lit lamp with the right hand while ringing the bell with the left:

Saajya varti yutam deepam, sarva mangala kaara kam Samar payaami pash yedam, soma suryaa gni lochana Om shri jagad ishvaraya namaha Deepam darsha yami O Lord of three eyes representing the moon, sun and agni, I offer this ghee soaked wick. I offer it as a lighted lamp and as a harbinger of all auspiciousness. 26) Naivedyam

Prag vaktra prati padaka mantra Offer the naivedyam without covers. Break a tulsi leaf in two. Offer one half to the linga as you chant what follows:

Om tat purushaaya vidmahe, maha devaaya dhi mahi Tanau rudram pracho dayaat Om shri jagad-ish-varaya namaha Naivedyam nive dayami May we know that Purusha, the Supreme Person. For that may we meditate on Mahadeva and may Rudra impel us for that meditation. [This is the Tatapurusha Gayatri on Mahadeva Rudra] Offer the essence of the food to the linga with your right hand:

Om pranaaya svaahaa littlest finger Om apanaya svaahaa ring finger Om vyaanaaya svaahaa middle finger Om udaanaaya svaahaa under finger Om samaanaya svaahaa all finger Om brahmane svaahaa all finger 27) Mangalaa niraajanam Offer lit camphor to the linga in arati: 220 The Cosmic Connection

Na tatra suryo bhaati na chandra taaraakam Nema vidhyuto bhaanti kuto ayam agnih Tameva bhanta manu bhaati sarvam Tasya bhaasaa sarva midam vi bhaati Om shri jagad ishvaraya namaha Mangala niraa janam samar payaami There the sun does not shine, neither do the moon nor stars, nor even the lightning; how then can this earthly light shine there? In truth, everything shines after Him who alone shines! His Light alone illumines this world. 28) Pushpaanjalih Stand up and offer flowers in handfuls to the linga:

Hara vishvaa khilaa dhaar niraa dhaar niraa shraya Pushpaan jalim grhaa nesha som eshvara namo stute Om shri jagad ishvaraya namaha Pushpaan jalim samarpayaami O Lord Hara, the Source of the Universe who thyself has no source and no support, O Lord who has the moon on his head, please accept this offering of flowers. 29) Pradakshina namaskaar Twirl around yourself three times while chanting the mantra. Prostrate at the end.

Yaani kaani cha paapaani janmaantara kritaani cha Taani taani vinash yanti pradikshna pade pade Om shri jagad ishvaraya namaha Pradakshina namas kaaram samar payaami Whatever sins I have committed in my past births, may they perish with each step of my pradakshina. 30) Rajo-upa-chaarah Hold an umbrella over the linga while singing some bhajans or do items of entertainment for the linga. 31) Praarthnaa While seated, offer prayers:

Traahi maam dev deve shaa, taru nendu shikhaa mane Shri Shiva Puja 221

Ipistam dehi me deva, dayaar aashe namostute Om tat sat Brahma arpa namastu O lord of lords, wearing the new moon as if a jewel in your head, please protect me. O Lord who is a treasure house of compassion, I prostrate to you. Please fulfill my desires. All this is being offered to Brahman the supreme. 32) Udvaasa-nam Now let the linga rest:

Om tishta tishta paras thaane, svas thaane param eshvara Yatra brahmaa dayo devaaha, sarve tishtan ti me hridi Om shri jagad ishvaraya namaha Yataa sthaanam pratishthaa payaami O Parameshwar, now abide in the supreme place, which is really your own abode, where Brahma and the other gods are waiting here in my heart. Now place the linga in its own place if it was removed. 33) Shaanti mantra Chant the closing mantra:

Om purnamadah purnamidam purnaat purna mudachyate Purnasya purna madaaya purnam evaa vashish yate Om shanti shanti shanti Om That is perfect and this is perfect. Out of perfect only comes perfect. Even after taking perfect out of perfect that which is perfect only remains.

Hari aum Shri guru-bhyo namaha hari aum Shiva-Stotra-Shata Naamaa-Valihi aum shivaaya namaha Salutations to Him who is auspicious aum mahesh-varaaya namaha To Him who is the great god aum sham-bhave namaha To Him who causes happiness aum pinaa-kine namaha 222 The Cosmic Connection

To Him who has a bow named Pinaaka aum shashi-shekhar-aaya namah To Him who wears a crescent moon on his head aum vaama-devaaya namaha To Him who is a lovely god aum viru-paak-shaaya To Him who has an unusual eye aum kapar-dine To Him who has matted hair aum nila-lohi-taaya To Him who is dark-blue coloured aum shankaraa-ya To Him who confers prosperity aum shula-paa-naye To Him who holds a spear in the hand aum khat-vaan-gine To Him who has a fearful club aum vishnu-valla-bhaaya To Him who is dear to Lord Vishnu aum shipi-vish-taaya To Him who is the indwelling master of jeeva aum ambikaa-naathaa-ya To Him who is the consort of Mother Paravati aum shri-kan-thaaya To Him whose neck is decorated (by poison) aum bhakta-vatsa-laaya To Him who is affectionate to his devotees aum bhavaaya To Him who is a pure blue aum shar-vaaya To Him who is the destroyer aum tri-loke-shaaya To Him who is the lord of the three worlds aum shiti-kanthaaya To Him who has a blue neck aum shiva-pri-yaaya To Him who is beloved of Mother (Paravati) aum ugraa-ya To Him who is formidable Shri Shiva Puja 223 aum kapaa-line To Him who holds a skull aum kaamaa-raye To Him who is the enemy of desires aum andhak-asura-su-danaaya To Him who killed the devil Andhaka aum gangaa-dhar-aaya To Him who carries river Ganga aum lalaa-taak-shaaya To Him who has an eye on the forehead aum kaala-kaa-laa-ya To Him who is the end of Time aum kripaa-ni-dhaye To Him who is the storehouse of compassion aum bhi-maaya namaha To Him who causes fear aum parashu-has-taaya namaha To Him who has an axe in the hand aum mrgaa-paa-naye namaha To Him who holds a deer? In the hand aum jataa-dharaaya namaha To Him who wears matted locks aum kailaasa-vaa-sine namaha To Him who lives in Kailas mountains aum kava-chine namaha To Him who has a protective armor aum katho-raaya namaha To Him who is fierce (against evil) aum tripur-aanta-kaaya namaha To Him who is the destroyer of Tri-city aum vrshaan-kaaya namaha To Him who has the bull as the sign in his flag aum vrsha-bhaaru-dhaaya namaha To Him who is seated on a bull aum bhasmod-dhuli-ta vigra-haaya To Him whose form is sprinkled with ashes aum saama-priyaa-ya To Him who loves Saama Veda aum svara-ma-yaa-ya 224 The Cosmic Connection

To Him who is in the form of sacred sound aum trayi-murtaye To Him who is in the three-fold form aum anish-varaaya To Him who has no lord (above him) aum sarva-gnyaaya To Him who knows all aum param-aatmane To Him who is the supreme self aum soma-surya-agni-locha-naaya To Him who has moon, sun and fire as eyes aum havishe To Him who is of the form of oblation aum yagna-ma-yaaya To Him who is of the form of sacrifice aum so-maaya To Him who is with Umaa aum pancha-vak-traaya To Him who has five faces aum sadaa-shivaaya To Him who is ever auspicious aum vish-vesh-varaaya To Him who is the lord of the universe aum vira-bhad-raaya To Him who is a powerful guardian aum gana-naathaaya To Him who is the master of a group of demi-gods aum prajaa-pataye To Him who is the creator aum hiranya-re-tase To Him who is the golden seed (of creation) aum dur-dhar-shaaya To Him who is inviolable aum giri-shaaya To Him who is the Lord of mountains aum giri-shaaya To Him who resides in mountains aum ana-ghaaya To Him who is faultless Shri Shiva Puja 225 aum bhuj-anga-bhusha-naaya To Him who wears a snake aum bhar-gaaya To Him full of effulegence aum giri-dhan-vane To Him who has a mountain (Meru) as his brow aum giri pri-yaaya To Him who loves mountains aum kritti-vaa-sase To Him who wears tiger skin as his cloth aum puraa-raata-ye To Him who is the enemy of the three cities aum bhaga-vate To Him who is divine god aum pra-mathaa-dhi-paaya 70 To Him who is the head of his attendants aum mrt-yun-jayaa-ya To Him who conquers death aum sukshma-tana-ve To Him who has the mystical form aum jagad-vyaa-pine To Him who pervades the world aum jagad-gurave To Him who is the teacher for the worlds aum vyoma-kehaaya To Him whose hair pervade the sky aum mhaa-sena-jana-kaaya To Him who begets the command of a great army aum chaaru-vikra-maaya To Him with beautiful gait aum rudraaya To Him who makes everyone weep (during dissolution) aum bhuta-pataye To Him who is the lord of beings aum sthaana-ve To Him who is immovable aum ahaye-budh-nyaa-ya To Him who is the mighty snake at the root aum digam-baraaya 226 The Cosmic Connection

To Him clothed by quarters aum ashta-murta-ye To Him of eight-fold forms aum anek-aatmane To Him who is many souls aum satt-vikaaya To Him who has virtuous qualities aum shuddha-vigra-haaya To Him of pure form aum shaash-vataaya To Him who is eternal aum khanda-para-shave To Him who cuts with his axe aum ajaaya To Him who is unborn aum paasha-vimo-cha-kaaya 90 To Him who frees from bondage aum mr-daaya To Him who causes happiness aum pashu-pataye To Him who is the lord of animals aum devaa-ya To Him who is God aum mahaa-devaa-ya To Him who is the mighty God aum avya-yaa-ya To Him who is imperishable aum haraye To Him who carries away (life) aum bhaga-netra-bhide To Him who destroyed the eyes of bhaga (a divine being) aum avyak-taaya To Him who is invisible aum dakshaa-dhvara-har-aaya To Him who terminated daksaís sacrifice aum haraa-ya 100 To Him who is the destroyer aum pusha-danta-bhide To Him who destroyed the teeth of Pusan Shri Shiva Puja 227 aum avya-graaya To Him who is undisturbed aum sahasr-aak-shaaya To Him with thousand eyes aum sahasra-pade To Him with thousand feet aum apa-varga-pra-daaya To Him who bestows soulís emancipation aum anan-taaya To Him who is infinite aum taara-kaaya To Him who is the savior aum param-esh-varaaya 108 To Him who is the Supreme Lord Iti shri-shiva-stot-tara-shata naama-valihi 18. Chinmaya Aarati

Arti Sri Chinmaya Satguruki Divya rup murati karunaki Arati sadguruki

Charanome unake shanti samaye Sharanagataki bhranti mitaye Paap taap santaap haranki Arati Sadguruki

Veda Upanishads Geeta ko gaya Dharma sanatana phirse jagaya Shud niti priti Shankar ki Arati sadguruki

Sidhbariki tapobhumi-mein Nitya viraje guru hamare Bhagt hridaya ananda satrotki Arati Sri Chinmaya sadguruki

228 Vishnu Puja 229

19. Vishnu Puja

Although the puja steps to follow are for Vishnu puja, the same slokas may be used for the other devas and devis by changing the name of the particular deity being prayed to. 1) Preparations for the puja. After a bath, apply tilak and after seating at the asan, light 2 lamps, place the bell and the shanko. 2) Achamanam Sip water 3 times while saying:

Om Keshavaya namaha Om Narayanaya namaha Om Madhavaya namaha 3) Shantipaath Om bhadram karanebhi shurunuyaam devah Bhadram pashye maksha bhirya jatraha Sthirair angai sttoosht vaam sasta nubhih Vyashem devahitam yadaa yuhu O Lord, may my two ears hear auspiciousness; may my eyes see only Your beauty; may my body perform vedic activities and may my mind and body perform service unto You.

Om svasthi na indro vridh shravaha Svasthina pusha vishva vedaha Svasti na stharkshyo arishta nemihi Svastino brihaspatir dadhaatu May Indra be kind to us; May the sun also be kind to us; May the devas ward off inauspiciousness and Lord Garuda help in that.. May Brihaspati help us. 3) Smaran i. om ek dantaya vighnahe vakratundaaya dhimahi, tanau dinhih prachodayaat

229 230 The Cosmic Connection

I remember and meditate upon You, O Lord with one tusk and a crooked trunk. ii. guru brahma guru vishnu guru devo maheshvarah, gurureva param brahma tasmai shri gurave namaha The guru is Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva ñ to such a teacher, I offer my prostrations. iii. aabrahmaloka-dashothaat aalokaa-loka parvataat ye vasanti dvijaa devah te-bhaya nityam namo namah I prostrate to that teacher who is honoured even by the devas in heaven. 4) Asana-vidhi Prostrate to your seat and the earth you plan to sit upon. Prithvi tvayaa dhrutaa lokaah, devi tvam visnunaa dhrutaa Tvam ch dhharaya maam devi, pvitram chaasanam kuru I prostrate to mother earth, who cares for the universe. Make this earth pure for my services. 5) While saying this, place water in the thali.

Nakshatra shubha yoga shubh karanaa bhi evam guna visho shana vishi Shtaa yaam asyaam shubha titau mama partha Samasta durit shay dhaaraa shri param eshvar priyatam Asmaa kam saku tumba naam kshema stairya virya vijaya Abhaya ananda ayuhu aarog yaadi ashtai shvaryaa bhi vridhyar tham Samasta duri topa shanta yartham, samasta san mangalanam avaap thyartham, Samasta abhyuda yaartham, dharma artha kaama moksha chaturvidh phala purushartha Sidhyartham cha sri lakshmi sameta srimaha vishnu prasada sidhyartam Sahasra naam archanaa sahita yatha shakti dhyaanaaa vahanadi shodaa opachara pujam karishye

On this auspicious day of this constellation, I seek to perform yoga. I seek the effects of such actions, according to the laws of karma. I wish to exhaust demerits earned by me, and hope to gain the favour of the great lord of welfare, steadiness, energy, victory, fearlessness, happiness, long life, good health, and for enhancing the eightfold . I seek the removal of suffering and to gain all good things for the earth. I want to achieve the fourfold goal [righteousness, material wealth, fulfillment of all desires and also liberation] through human endeavour. Vishnu Puja 231

I seek the innumerable results of these desires for the entire world family and myself. I, therefore, propitiate Mahavishnu along with His consort Sri Lakshmi. I shall perform according to my capacity the Vishnu Sahasranama Archana, with the sixteen parts of meditation. 6. Samagri shudhi Next make offerings. Chanting the slokas offer samagri, flowers, water and akshata. i. ghantaa-puja While doing this part of the puja chant the following:

Aagama artham tu devanam gama nartham tu raaksh saam Kurve ghantaa ravam ramayam devata hvaana lakshanam ii. -puja While touching the kalash, chant:

Aayaantu deva pujaartham duri takshaya kaarakaam Sarve samudraha saritaha tirthaani jala daan daha Gange ch yamune chaiva godavari sarasvati Narmade sindhu kaveri jale asmin sanidhi kuru I worship the devas so they may remove all sorrows. May the waters of the seven oceans, , please rivers and streams arrive. O Ganga, Yamuna, Godawari, Saraswati, Narmada, Sindhu and Kaveri enter and be present in this water in the kalasha. iii. shanka-puja Tvam puraa saagarot panah vishnunaa vidhrutah kare Nirmitah sarva devei stu paanch ajanya namostute O Panchajanya [Vishnuís Conch], prostrations to you, who is born of the oceans of ancient times. Vishnu holds you in his hands and you are worshipped by all the gods. iv. dipa-puja Bho deepa brahma rupas tvam jyoti shaam prabhur sreyam Aarogyam devi putnaamsh cha sarvaar thaamsh cha prayas cha me O puja-dipa, O goddess of Light, you are the supreme Brahman, which is the light of lights. O Mother, grant me health, sons and all wealth. v. mandap-puja Maanikyo jvala dipta dipti khachitam lakshmi vilaasah padam Dhyaayet mandapa marcha neshu sala leshu evam dipam saadhakah Navaratna khacita sri saubhaagya mandapaaya namaha Before worshipping I meditate on the Mandapa, which is brightly illuminated 232 The Cosmic Connection

by studded gems and is the playground of Sri Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. O Mandapa, who is made of the nine kinds of gems, prosrations to you. vi. atma-puja Deho devalayah prokto jivo devah sanatana Tyajeta agyaan nirmaalyam soaham bhavena puja yate It is said that the body is the temple of the transmigrating soul who is the ancient deity. Ignorance is the flowers of yesterday. Throw it away and may I worship the deity in the attitude of ìI am Heî. Now end the chanting by sprinkling water on all the samagri. 7) Ganesh-puja With do avaahana to Ganesh and offer flowers, akshata, deep and naivedyam. Pranamya shirasaa gauri putram, Bhaktaa vaasam smaren nityam aayuh kamartha sidhaye Prathamam vakra tundam ch ekadantam dvitiyakam, Trithiyam krishna-pinga laksham gaja vaktram chatur-tha-kam Lambodaram panchamam cha shashtam vikata ameva ch Saptamam vigna rajendram dhumra-varnam tathaash-tamam Navamam bhaalam chandram ch dashamam tu vinayakam Eka dasham ganapatim dvaada sham tu gajana nam Remember with the head bowed down, son of Gauri, who is Ganesha whose abode is in the heart of devotees. Remember Him who fulfills desires for long life. Remember Him who is known by his twelve names in a given order: Vakratunda, Ekadanta, Krishna-pingalaaksha, Gaja Vaktra, Lambodara, Vikata, Vigna Rajendra, Dhumravarna, Balachandra, Vinayake, Ganapati and Gajanana. 8) Navagraha-puja Place a supari on a paan leaf and chant the stotra below, at the same time offering sandalwood paste, akshata and flowers, and offer your devotion.

Japakusum-sankasham kaashya-peyam mahad dyutim Tamorim sarva paapa gnam pranato asmi diva-karam 1 Sun I prostrate to Divakar [sun] who shines like the japa pushpam [red hibicus], son of of great brilliance, dispeller of darknes and destroyer of sins.

Dadhi shamkar tushaara bham kshiro-dhaarnava sam bhavam Namaami shashinam somam shambhor-mukunta bhushanam 2 Moon I do namaskar to soma the moon god whose whiteness is bright like the curd, the conch and the snow that are all white and pleasing. My respects to one who Vishnu Puja 233 is born of the milky ocean, who has a mark of the hare on his body and who adorns the crown of Shiva.

Dharani garbha sambhutam vidyut teja sama prabham Kumaram shakti-hastam ch mangalam prana-maamyaham 3 Mars Mangala I prostrate to Mangala, born from the womb of Mother Earth, whose light is as brilliant as the lightning, who is young and beautiful, who weilds the weapon of shakti in his hand.

Priyamgu kalikaa shyamam rupena-pratimam budham Saumyam saumya-guno-petam tam budham prana maamyaham 4 Budha I worship Buddha, whose colour is bluish-green like the kind in the priyangu flower, incomparable in beauty ñ pleasing, and endowed with pleasing qualities.

Devanam cha rishinam ch gurum kanchana sam nidham Vandya bhutam trilokaa nam tam namami brihaspatim 5 Guru I prostrate to Brihaspati who is the guru of the Devas and rishis, whose body is like burnished gold, worthy of worship in all the three worlds.

Hima kunda mrinaa laabham daityanam paramam gurum Sarva shaastra pravak taaram bhargavam prana-maamya-ham 6 Shukra I do namaskar to Shukra who was born to Bhrigu, whose effulgence is like the kunda flower, the white lotus and the moon. He is the guru of the asuras and teaches his expertise in the knowledge of the Shastras.

Nilam bhuja amaa bhaa sam raviputram yamaa grajam Chayaa maartanda sam-bhutam tam namami shanaish-charam 7 Shani I prostrate to shani who moves slowly and who shines like the blue lotus, who is the son of the sun and the elder brother of Yama. He is born of Chhaaya and Maartanda [sun].

Ardha kaayam maha-viryam chandra aditya vimardanam Simhika garbha sam bhutam tam rahum pran-maamya-ham 8 Rahu I prostrate to Rahu who is born of Simhika, who has half a body of heroic and great strength and who gives trouble to the sun and the moon.

Palaasha dhoomra sankaasham taarakaa-graham-astakam Raudram raudra atmakam ghoram tam ketum pranamaamyaham 9 Ketu I prostrate to Ketu who is dark like the patasha flower and smoke, who has the planet Taraka on the head, who is of angry nature and is always terribly anger. 234 The Cosmic Connection

9) Vishnu-puja With inner quietitude and deep devotion, allow your heart and mind to chant in meditation about Sri Vishnu.

Dhyanam Shanta-kaaram bhujaga-shayanam padmanabham suresham Vishva-dhaaram gagana-sadresham megha varnam shubhangam Lakshmi kaantam kamala-nayanam yogi hrida dhyana-gamyam Vande vishnum bhava bhaya haram sarva lokai kanaatham. Quiet, peaceful in form and reclining on the serpent Adi Shesha, He has a lotus on his navel and is the God of all gods. He supports the entire universe, which is vast and subtle like space, whose complexion is of the rainbearing cloud. He of noble limbs is the beloved of Lakshmi. He is seen by yogis in their hearts while meditating. He is that Vishnu and I worship him. He is the remover of great fear of birth and death. He is the sole monarch of the universe. i. Aavaahanam With folded hands and eyes shut, offer your deep devotion as you chant the slokas. Aagach-cha dev devesha tejo-raashe jagat pate Kriyamaa naam mayaa pujaam grihana surasatam Srilakshmi-sahit sri maha vishnum saangam, sapari-vaaram, saayudam, sa shakti kam, dhyayami, Aaavaahayami Swamin sarva jaganath yaavat puja vasaana kam Taavat tvam prithi bhavena bimbe asmin saniidim kuru O Lord of Devas, O aggregate of effulgence, Lord of the universe, please come and accept this worship, which is being performed by me. I meditate on Mahavishnu with Lakshmi, with all his limbs with weapons and power who are his family. O Lord of the universe, please manifest in these limbs in a happy mood for the duration of the puja. ii. Asanam While offering a tulasi leaf at the Lordís feet chant the sloka.

Aneka ratna khachitam muktaama bhushitam Ratna sim haasanam chaaru suresha prati grihataam Asanam samarpayami O Lord of gods, please accept this beautiful throne made of many gems and decorated with pearls. iii. Paadyam While chanting the sloka, offer water at the Lordís feet. Vishnu Puja 235

Pushp akshata samaa yuktam purushotama valabha Paadyam grhaan devesha purna rupa namostute Paadyam samarpayami iv. Achamanam While chanting, offer water at the feet.

Nan nadi samaaditam suvarna kalash stitam Gruhaan achaman aarthaaya vimalam jalamch chyuta Aachamanam samar payami O Lord Achyuta, please receive this pure water for aachamanam brought from many rivers in this golden kalash. v. Snanam The Lord is to be bathed first with panchamritam [milk, yogurt, ghee, sugar and honey mixed together]; then with coconut water; and finally with clean warm water During the bathing of the statue, chant the purusha suktam. The act of bathing is considered a teerath.

Madhvajya shakra raayuktam dadhi shirsam nvitam Panch amritam gruha nedam bhakta anamishta daayak Panch amritena snaana yaami Ganga godavari krishna yamuna thyah samaa hritam Shudhod kena snaanayami O Lord who grants desires of devotees, here is the for your bath. After that I bathe the Lord with the holy waters brought from many holy rivers including the Ganga, Godavari, Narmada, Krishna and Yamuna. vi. Vastram While chanting this stotra, either clothes or a tulasi leaf is offered at the feet.

Taptakaam chana varnaabham andham mridulam shubham Pahimam karuna-murte vaasasi prati-grihya taam Vastram samarpayaami O compassionate Lord, please accept this cloth, which shines like burnished gold and is soft and auspicious and please save me. vii. Yagyo-pavitam Offer the sacred thread or a tulasi leaf as you chant the sloka

Deve deve namaste-astu traahi maam bhava saagarat Brahma sot tariyam gruhaan purushotama 236 The Cosmic Connection

Yagyo-pavitam samarpayami O Lord of gods, please save me from the ocean of samasara and please accept this yagna paveetam along with the upper cloth. viii. Gandham Apply sandalwood paste on the forehead while the sloka is being chanted.

Sri khandam-chandanam gandaadhiyam sumanoharam Vilepanam surashreshta chandan prati-grihya-taam Chandan samarpayami O Great One among the devas, please accept this sandalwood paste, which is very attractive for smearing and is pleasing to the heart. ix. Akshata Place akshata at His feet

Akshatan davalaam divyaam muktaa phala sama prabham Gruhaana tvam mahashreyo namaste bhakta-vatsala Akshatan samarpayami O glorious Lord who protects and loves the devotees like his own children. Please accept this akshata, which is shining white, divine, and which have the lustre of pearls. x. Pushpam Now decorate the Lord with a variety of flowers.

Jaati champaka poonaaga ketaki malikaadi-bhih Kusum ai pujayami tvaam sudhaam paripujitaam Nanavidha parimala pushpani samarpayami I worship you with offerings of fragrant flowers such as jasmine, camphaka, punnaga, ketaki and mallika. xi. Dhoopam Light and offer the agarbati.

Vanaspatya ud-bhavo dhupo gandhaa-dayo gandhamah Agreya sarvadevanam dhupo-ayam prati griyataam Dhoopam agrapayami This dhupa and gandha are made from herbs. It is worthy of fragrance before all the devatas. Please accept these. xii. Deepam Show and wave the deepam to the Lord. Vishnu Puja 237

Saajyam trivarti sam-yuktam vahani-na yojitam mayaa Grihaana mangalam deepam trailokya timirapaham Deepam darshayami This lamp is lit with three wicks soaked in ghee. It dispels darkness of all the three worlds. I offer it to you. Please be pleasd with me. xiii. Naivedyam With water circumambulate with hand around the food ñ then place a tulasi leaf on the centre of offering. Place right hand with water over the food as you offer to the astral levels [pranaya, apanaya, vyaanaya, samanaya, and brahmane]. At the same time place your left hand over your heart.

Om pranaya svaha little finger Apanaya svaha ring finger Vyanaya svaha middle finger Samanaya svaha ring finger Brahmane svaha all fingers and palm of hand Next, while chanting the sloka take some water in your right hand as pouring on the offering. Next give water to wash the lordís hands, then his mouth gargle and finally water to drink. Do it with water using a spoon.

Hasta-prakshalanam samarpayami [hands] Mukh-prakshalanam samarpayami [gargle] Achamaniyam samarpayami [drink] I offer water for washing hands I offer water for mouth washing I offer water to drink Next take a small amount of the prasad and offer at His feet also. xiv. Tambulam Offer a paan or tulasi leaf as you chant the next stotra.

Pughiphala samayuktam nagavali dalai-yutam Karpura, churna, samyuktam, tambulam prati-grihatam Tambulam samarpayami Please accept tambulam for chewing, which contains supari, pan leaves and powdered camphor. xv. Dakshina Offer dakshina according to ability. 238 The Cosmic Connection

Hiranyagarbha-garbha-stham hema-bijam vibhaavasoho Ananta punya phaladam atah shantim preyachame Suvarna pushpa dakshinaam samarpayami The total mind belonging to the supreme Lord was placed in the womb of Hiranyagarbha [golden egg]. The worlds are projections of this total mind and the Lord is the giver of the fruits of endless merit. May it give me peace. xvi. Karpura-arati Om na karmana na prajaya dhanena tyaage-naike amrita tva maanashuh Parena naakam nihitam guhaayaam vibhrajadey tad yat tyo vishanti Vedanta vigyana sunischit arthaas sanyasa yogad yata yaksh suddha satvaha Te brahama loke tu parantha kale paramritaat pari-muchyanti sarve Daharam vipapam parmesham abhutam yat-pundari-kam pura-madhya samstham Tatraapi daharam gagana avishokas tasmin yadantas tadu-pasi-tavyam Yo veda au svaraha prokto vedante ch pratishthi tha ha Tasya prakriti linasya yaha parasah maheshvaraha Na tatra suryo bhati na chandra tarakam Nema vidhyuto bhanti kutom yam agnih Tameva bhantum anubhati sarvam Tasya bhasa sarva midam vibhati Mantra-pushpam

Om tadbrahma; Om That is Brahman om tadvayu; Om That is Vayu om tadatma; Om That is Self om tadsatyam; Om That is truth om tadsarvam; Om That is All om tadpuror-namah; Om I offer prostrations in front of It Antash-charati bhuteshu guhaayaam vishva-murtishu; In all forms in the heart He moves

Tvam yagyastvam vashat-kara stavam-indro stavam--tvam -tvam, Brahma tvam prajapatih; tvam tadaap aapo jyoti raso-amrutam Vishnu Puja 239

brahma bhur bhuvas suvar om You are the yagna, you are the oblation, you are Indra, Rudra, Vishnu, Brahma. You are the Lord of all creatures. You are the waters, light, essence, nectar O Brahman mantrapushpani samarpayaami 11) Pradakshina-namaskaram While doing circumambulation chant the sloka given.

Yani kani ch paapaani, janmaantar kritani ch Tani tani vinashyanti pradakshina pade pade Whatever sins I have committed in my past births, may they perish with each step of my pradakshina.

Anyathaa sharanam naassti tvameva sharanam mama Tasmaat kaarunya-bhaavena raksha raksha parameshvar There is no other refuge. You are the sole refuge for me. And so, O Lord, please protect me. Protect me out of compassion. 12) Kshamarpanam Pray with folded hands.

Mantrahinam kriya-hinam bhaki-hinam janaardana Yat-kritam tu mayaa dev paripurnam tadastu me O Janardana, whatever I have performed which is imperfect or defective in this mantra, in the rites, and in the devotion, please make it perfect.

Aparaad sahasraani kriyante-aharni-sham mayaa Daaso-aham-iti maam budhvaa kshamaiva purushotama Day and night thousands of wrongs are committed by me. Please forgive all that considering me as your servant.

Aavaahanam na jaanami na jaanami visarjanam Pujaam chaiva na jaan-ami shramasva parameshvara I do not know invocations nor do I know how to reinstate. I do not know pujas. Please forgive me.

Devanath guru swamin deshik-asya-atmana hitam Trahi trahi kripa-sindho pujam-purna phalam kuru O God, Guru, Master, ñ save me, save me Oh ocean of mercy. Grant 240 The Cosmic Connection

me the full benefits of puja.

Yat-kritam yat-karishyami tat sarvam na mayaa krutam Tvayaa kritam tu phal-bhoga tavaiva purushotama Whatever was done, what I am doing now, all that is not done by me. You alone have done it all. I surrender the results of all actions to you only. 13) Brahmarpanam With folded hands pray chanting the sloka.

Kaayena vaachaa manase-indriyair-vaa, budh-dhyatmanah va prakteh svabhavaat Karomi yad-yad sakalam parasmai, narayana-yeti samarpayami Whatever I do with the body, speech, mind, sense organs, intellect and by my involuntary actions triggered by nature, I surrender and offer all that to the supreme Narayana. 14) -grahanam While chanting the sloka, imagine you are on a thirat Akaala-mrityu-haranam sarva-vyadhi-vinashanam Vishni-pado-dakam tirtham jatare dharayam mya-ham I take a sip of this charana amritam [waters used for the Lordís washing ritual] of Lord Vishnuís feet which prevents untimely death, which destroys all disease. 15) Prasaad-bhakshanam Sing bhajans with devotion while distributing prasad or keep aside some for the Lordís birds and creatures. 16) Shanti-paat Chant the next set of slokas together.

Om svasti prajaabhyah pari- paalayantaam, nyaayena margena mahim mahishah Go-brahmane-bhyah shubha-mastu-nityam, lokaa samastaah sukhino bhavantu Om let auspiciousness be. May the peopleís welfare be protected by kings and they may rule [kingdom] by the righteous path. May there be welfare for cows and Brahmanas and all the people be happy.

Kaale varshatu par-janyah, prithvi sasya shalini Desho-ayam shobha-rahitah, brahmanas-santu nir-bhayah May the rains come at the proper time. May earth be bounteous with grains. May there be no famine in this land. May the Brahamans be fearless. Vishnu Puja 241

Om sarve sham svastir-bhavatu, sarve sham shanti-bhavatu Sarve sham purna bavatu, sarve sham mangalam bhavatu May there be prosperity for all, as also peace, fullness and auspiciousness.

Sarve bhavantu sukhinah, sarve santu niramayaah Sarve badhrani pashyantu, ma kaschid dukh-bhaag bhaved May all be happy without disease. May all see and go through life only with good things. May never anyone go through sorrows.

Asato ma sad gamaya, tamaso ma jyotir gamaya Mrityor ma amritam gamaya Take me from the unreal to the real, from darkness to light, from death to immortality.

Om purnamadah purnamidam purnaat purna-udchyate Purnasya purna-madaya, purnam-eva-vashishyate Om shanti shanti shantih Om That [Supreme Brahman] is infinite and this [Conditioned Brahman] is infinite. The infinite [conditioned Brahman] proceeds from the infinite [Supreme Brahaman]. Then through knowledge, taking the infinite of the infinite [conditioned Brahaman], it remains as the infinite alone [unconditioned Brahaman]. Om peace Hari om shri gurubhyo namah hari om 17) Paduka puja or Vishnu sahasranama Should be chanted to finish the puja. i. Paduka Puja Om ajaaya namah Prostrations to one who is birthless and beginingless Om avyayaaya namah Prostrations to one who cannot be diminished Om aavinashine namah Prostrations to one who is indestructible Om achintyaya namah Prostrations to one who cannot be understood with a mortal mind Om aprameyaya namah Prostrations to one who is immeasureable Om advitiyaaya namah 242 The Cosmic Connection

Prostrations to one who is non-dual Om aniketaya namah Prostrations to the wandering monk Om anu-shaasana-priyaya namah Prostrations to one who likes discipline Om anta-sakshine namah Prostrations to one who is the eternal inner witness Om antar aminei namah Prostrations to one who is an inner controller Om anandaya namah Prostrations to one who is Bliss Om atma-svarupaya namah Prostration to one who is his true eternal nature Om angla-bhasha-vidutamaya namah Prostrations to one who is an expert among the knowers of the English language Om ishvaraya namah Prostrations to one who is Lord Om udhaara-hridayaya namah Prostrations to one who is large hearted Om utsaah-vardhakaya namah Prostrations to one who inspires enthusiasm Om ekasmai namah Prostrations to one who is One Om onkaravidhe namah Prostrations to one who has realised the pranava Omkar Om karuna-sagaraya namah Prostrations to one who is compasion Om karma-parayanaya namah Prostrations to one who is devoted to work for the welfare of humanity Om kala-titaya namah Prostrations to one who has transcended Time Om kaivalya-svarupaya namah Prostrations to one whose true nature is infinity Om krit-atmane namah Prostrations to one who has reached his goal Om krit-krityaya namah Prostrations to one who has done all that needs to be done Om Geeta-gyan-yagya-pracharkaya namah Prostrations to one who propagates the teachings of the Bhagavad-Geeta Vishnu Puja 243 through gyana yagna Om gurave namah Prostrations to the master who is mentor and teacher Om guna-titaya namah Prostrations to one who is beyond the gunas Om granta-krite namah Prostrations to one has written books on scriptural texts Om chinmayaya namah Prostrations to one whose real nature is pure consciousness Om china-sam-shayaaya namah Prostrations to one who has cut asunder all doubts Om jagad-atmane namah Prostrations to one who is the Self in the universe Om jagad-sakshine namah Prostrations to one who is the witness consciousness of all beings Om jana-priyaya namah Prostrations to the one who is loved by all Om jitendriyaya namah Prostrations to one who has perfect control over the senses Om jiva-brahmaikya-vidhe namah Prostrations to one who has realised the oneness of the individual soul with the supreme self Om jivan-muktaya namah Prostrations to one who is liberated while still living in the body Om jirna-mandirod-dharkaya namah Prostrations to one who has rejuvenated dilapdated temples facing extinction Om tapovana-sishyaya namah Prostrations to one who is the disciple of Pujya Swami Tapovanam Om tapasvine namah Prostrations to one who is austere Om tapan-aashnaya namah Prostrations to one who destroys sorrows of disciples Om tirtha-svarupaya namah Prostrations to one who is most worshipful Om tejasvine namah Prostrations to one who is resplendent and effulgent Om dehatitaya namah Prostrations to one who has transcended body consciousness Om dvandvaa-titaya namah 244 The Cosmic Connection

Prostrations who has risen above duality and plurality Om dhrida-nishchyaya namah Prostrations to one who has firm determination Om dharma-sam-stapa-kaya namah Prostrations to one who is established in dharma Om dhimate namah Prostrations to one who has a superior integrated intellect Om dhiraya namah Prostrations to one who is a hero Om dhairya-pradaaya namah Prostrations to one who generates self-confidence Om narayanaya namah Prostrations to one who is Lord Narayana himself Om nijanandaya namah Prostrations to one who revels in his own self Om nirapekshaya namah Prostrations to one who has no dependence on anything Om nihsapprihaya namah Prostrations to one who has no desire for any repeat experiences Om nirupamaya namah Prostrations to one who is incomparable and peerless Om nirvikalpaya namah Prostrations to one who has no ignorance Om nityaya namah Prostrations to one who is timeless Om niranjanaya namah Prostrations to one who is taintless Om paramaya namah Prostrations to one who is Supreme Om parabrahmane namah Prostrations to one who is the Supreme Brahman Om pavanaya namah Prostrations to one who is the purifier as wind Om pavakaya namah Prostrations to one who is the purifier as fire Om purushotamaya namah Prostrations to one who is greatest among men Om prasanatmane namah Prostrations to one who is ever content in himself and also pleasing to others Vishnu Puja 245

Om fala-sakti-rahitaya namah Prostrations to one who has no attachments to the fruits of actions Om bahubhaktaya namah Prostrations to one who has innumerable devotees Om banda-mochakaya namah Prostrations to one who liberates devotees from bondage Om brahma-nishtaya namah Prostrations to one who is established in Brahman Om brahma-paraya namah Prostrations to whom Brahman alone is supreme Om bhaya-nashanaya namah Prostrations to one who dispels fear Om bharat-gauravaya namah Prostrations to one who is the glory of Bharat Om bhumane namah Prostrations to one who is Supreme Bliss Om maha-vakyop-desh-kaya namah Prostration to one who imparts knowledge of Upanishadic declarations about the unity of the individual and the supreme soul [unity-oneness] Om marashye namah Prostration to one who is a great rishi Om madhursvabhavaya namah Prostrations to one who is sweet natured Om manoharaya namah Prostrations to one who captivates hearts Om mahatmane namah Prostrations to one is a great soul Om medhavine namah Prostrations to one who has a great retentive power of the mind of an intellectual Om yatatmane namah Prostrations to one who has great self-control Om yagnakrite namah Prostrations to one who conducts gyana yagnas Om loka-prasid-dhaya namah Prostrations to one who is well known in the world Om vagminey namah Prostrations to one who has great oratorial powers Om vibhave namah Prostrations to one who is Lord 246 The Cosmic Connection

Om vinod-priyaya namah Prostrations to one who is humerous, witty, fond of fun and entertainement Om vinaya-shilaya namah Prostration who is endowed with humility born of knowledge Om vitaraa-gaaya namah Prostrations to one who has no cravings or attachments Om vedanta-vedyaya namah Prostrations to one who is that principle which is known only through the study of Vedanta Om shantaya namah Prostrations to one who is peace itself born of a silent mind Om shantipradaya namah Prostrations to one who grants peace of mind to others Om shrastrod-dharakaya namah Prostrations to one who upholds the scriptures Om shudha-satvaya namah Prostrations to one whose mind is highly purified Om shruti-paragaya namah Prostrations to one who has learned the full purport of and mastered the Vedas Om shrotri-yaya namah Prostrations to one who is well versed in the shastras Om sanyasine namah Prostrations to one who has renounced all as a monk Om sambhudh-daye namah Prostrations to one who has equal vision, and who sees Brahman alone Om satchidanandaya namah Prostrations to one who is existence-knowledge bliss Om sarvahit-achintakaya namah Prostrations to one who is concerned about the welfare of others Om satya-sankalpaya namah Prostrations to one who has an unfailing will for truth to prevail Om santush-taya namah Prostrations to one who is ever content Om sadhave namah Prostrations to one who is an uspicious great soul Om su-manase namah Prostrations to one who is good-natured and pure-hearted Om suhride namah Prostrations to one who is a friend to all Vishnu Puja 247

Om svayam-jyotishe namah Prostrations to one who is self-effulgent and needs no other Om stita-pragnyaya namah Prostrations to one who illumines the self Om kshama-shilaya namah Prostrations to one who is ever-forgiving and tolerant Om gyana-murtaye namah Prostrations to one who is established in self-knowledge Om gyana-yoginey namah Prostrations to one who is the embodiment of knowledge Om gyana-triptaye namah Prostration to one who is content in the knowledge of the self Om nitya-shudha-budha-mukta-svarupaya namah Prostrations to one whose illumined nature is timeless, awakened and pure Om gurave namah Prostrations to Swami Chinamayananda, our guru. ii. Sri Vishnu Sahasranamah Om namo bhagavate vaasudevaya Prostrations to Vasudev who manifests as Krishna Om Sri Krishna param atmane namah Om vishvasmai namah Prostrations to He whose manifestation is the whole universe Om vishnave namah Prostrations to He whose nature is pervasiveness Om vashat-karaya namah Prostrations to He who is invoked at yagnas as oblations poured into vedic rituals Om bhut-bhavya-bhavat-prabhave namah Prostrations to He who is lord of past, present and future Om bhuta-krite namah Prostrations to He who becomes one with the moods of the mind as creator [rajas], sustainer [sattva], and annhilator[tamas] Om bhuta-bhrite namah Prostrations to He who nurtures and nourishes all plants and creatures Om bhaavaya namah Prostrations to He who becomes the very existence in sentient and insentient things Om bhut-atmane namah 248 The Cosmic Connection

Prostrations to He who is the very ëBeingí in all living creatures and pervasive as space Om bhut-bhava-naya namah Prostrations to He who creates and multiplies in all creatures Om put-atmane namah Prostrations to He who is of the pure essence, free of the influence of maya Om paramatmane namah Prostrations to He who transcends all limitation of matter Om muktanam paramayai gatayai namah Prostrations to He who is the final goal of existence Om avyayaaya namah Prostrations to He who is indestructible and changeless Om purushaya namah Prostrations to He who is king of the nine-gated city Om sakshine namah Prostrations to He without involvement Om kshetra-gyaya namah Prostrations to He who is the illuminator of the bodily field Om aksharaya namah Prostrations to He who is infinite and indestructible Om yogaya namah Prostrations to He who is realised by meditation Om yoga-vidhan netre namah Prostrations to He who guides men of realisation Om -purushesh-varaya namah Prostrations to He of one essence in purusha as well as jiva Om narasimha-vapushe namah Prostrations to He who is of the form human and half lion Om srimate namah Prostrations to He who is always with Shree Mother Lakshmi Om keshavaya namah Prostrations to He who is beautiful and with graceful locks of hair Om purushotamaya namah Prostrations to He who is the spirit expressing through matter Om sarva-smai namah Prostrations to He who is the cause of all 25 Om sarvaya namah Prostrations to He who gives auspiciousness upon those who meditate upon Him Vishnu Puja 249

Om shivaya namah Prostrations to He who is eternally pure Om stanave namah Prostrations to He who is permanent Om bhutadiye namah Prostrations to He who is the very cause of the elements Om nidhaye avyayaya namah Prostrations to He who is the imperishable treasure of the entire universe Om sambhavaya namah Prostrations to He who inacarnates repeatedly at will Om bhavanaya namah Prostrations to He who gives to devotees both joy and sorrow Om bhartaahya namah Prostrations to He who is ruler of the world Om prabhavaya namah Prostrations to He who is the very womb of the five elements Om prabhave namah Prostrations to He who is the Almighty Lord Om ishvaraya namah Prostrations to He who has the ability to do whatever without any help Om svayam-bhuve namah Prostrations to He who is self-made and cause of all Om sham-bhave namah Prostrations to He who brings inner goodness and outer prosperity in his devotees Om adityaya namah Prostrations to He who glows with a splendorous lustre Om pushkar-akshyaya namah Prostrations to He who has eyes like that of a lotus Om maha-svanaya namah Prostrations to He whose voice resonates in all hearts Om anadi-nidhanaya namah Prostrations to He who is neither birth not death Om dhatre namah Prostrations to He who is the substratum for names and forms Om vidhatre namah Prostrations to He who is the dispenser of fruits of actions Om dhatur-tamaya namah Prostrations to He who is the fundamental element of all tissues in existence 250 The Cosmic Connection

Om apra-meyaya namah Prostrations to He who is inexpressible Om hrishi-keshaya namah Prostrations to He who is the light of all sense organs Om padmana-bhaya namah Prostrations to He from whose naval springs the truth-bearing Brahma Om amar-prabhave namah Prostrations to He who is lord of the devas Om vishva-karmane namah Prostrations to He who is the very creator of all instruments of experiences 50 Om manave namah Prostrations to He who has the ability to manifest as the higher in vedic mantras Om tvashtre namah Prostrations to He who is able to dematerialise gross to the subtle [pralaya] Om stavish-thaya namah Prostrations to He who is reality manifesting as the supremely gross Om stavi-raya namah Prostrations to He who is ancient and motionless Om agra-hyaaya namah Prostrations to He who is neither visible nor can be apprehended through the senses Om shashva-taya namah Prostrations to He who is permanently changeless Om krishnaya namah Prostrations to He who is veiled behind darkness Om lohi-takshyaya namah Prostrations to He who is red-eyed for destruction of evil Om pratar-danaya namah Prostrations to He who is the root of supreme destruction [pralaya] Om prabhu-taya namah Prostrations to He who is perfect in His essential nature Om trika-kub-damne namah Prostrations to He who is the very substratum of the three planes of awareness [waking, dream, deep sleep] Om pavitraya namah Prostrations to He who gives purity of heart Om mangalaya parasmai namah Prostrations to He who not only removes darkness but brings joys Vishnu Puja 251

Om ishanaya namah Prostrations to He who is the controller of the five great elements Om pranadaya namah Prostrations to He who gives prana or life force to all Om pranaya namah Prostrations to He who sustains prana in all Om jyeshtaya namah Prostrations to He who is older than all Om shreshtaya namah Prostrations to He who is the most glorious One Om prajapataye namah Prostrations to He who is the lord of all creatures Om hiranya-garbhaya namah Prostrations to He who dwells in the womb of the world Om bhu-garbhaya namah Prostrations to He who is the very womb of the world Om madhavaya namah Prostrations to He who is the lord of maya Om madu-sudhanaya namah Prostrations to He who is the destroyer of the demon Madhu Om ishvaraya namah Prostrations to He who has all powers and is omnipotent Om vikramine namah Prostrations to He who is courageous 75 Om dhanvine namah Prostrations to He who carries the mighty bow Saranaga Om medhavine namah Prostrations to He who is supremely intelligent Om vikramaya namah Prostrations to He who rides the white garuda [mind] Om kramaya namah Prostrations to He who is all-pervading Om anutamaya namah Prostrations to He who is incomparably great in glory Om duraa-dhar-shaya namah Prostrations to He who cannot be attacked successfully Om krita-gyaya namah Prostrations to He who knows all that needs to be done physically, emotionally and intellectually and their motives. 252 The Cosmic Connection

Om kritaye namah Prostrations to He who is the dynamism behind all activities Om atmavate namah Prostrations to He who is the self in all beings Om sureshaya namah Prostrations to He who is the god of gods in heaven Om sharanaya namah Prostrations to He who is the refuge of all suffering the imperfections of living Om sharmane namah Prostrations to He who is infinite bliss Om visva-retase namah Prostrations to He who is the seed wherefrom the tree of life has sprung Om praja-bhavaya namah Prostrations to He from whom all living creatures have sprung forth Om ahane namah Prostrations to He who is bright as the daylight and illumines all objects Om samvatsaraya namah Prostrations to He who is of the Nature of Time Om vyalaya namah Prostrations to He who is difficult to grasp when not devoted to truth Om pratyaya namah Prostrations to He whose nature is knowledge Om sarva-darshanaya namah Prostrations to He who is the seer in the eyes, hearer in the ears, the speaker, feeler and thinker. Om ajaaya namah Prostrations to He who is unborn Om sarvesh-varaya namah Prostrations to He who is the lord of lords Om sidhaaya namah Prostrations to He who has achieved all that requires achieving ñ the very goal Om sidhaye namah Prostrations to He who is available for recognition in all of nature Om sarvadaye namah Prostrations to He who is the very cause of creaton Om achyutaya namah Prostrations to He who has never fallen into misconception 100 Om vrisha-kapaye namah Prostrations to He who lifts the world drowned in adharama Vishnu Puja 253

Om amey-atmane namah Prostrations to He whose manifestaion is in infinite varieties Om sarva-yoga-vinih-srutaya namah Prostrations to He who is totally free of contacts and attachments Om vasve namah Prostrations to He who is the essence and very support of elements Om vasumanase namah Prostrations to He who is free of likes and dislikes Om satyaya namah Prostrations to He who is real Om sam-atmane namah Prostrations to He who is equally in all Om sami-mataya namah Prostrations to He who is the truth acceptible to rishis and vedas Om samaya namah Prostrations to He who is the same Om amoghaya namah Prostrations to He who is ever useful Om pundari-kakshaya namah Prostrations to He who has fully experienced the depths of the heart Om vrisha-karmane namah Prostrations to He whose activities are righteous Om vrish-kritaye namah Prostrations to He who is himself self-righteous Om rudraya namah Prostrations to He who makes one weep at death Om bahu-shirase namah Prostrations to He who has many heads Om brabhave namah Prostrations to He who rules the world Om vishva-yonaye namah Prostrations to He who is the total cause of all experiences Om shuchi-shravase namah Prostrations to He whose ears are everywhere Om amrutaya namah Prostrations to He who is immortal Om shash-vata-sthanave namah Prostrations to He who is immortal and changeless Om vararo-haya namah 254 The Cosmic Connection

Prostrations to He who is the most glorious destination Om maha-patase namah Prostrations to He whose tapas takes the form of knowledge Om sarvagaya namah Prostrations to He who pervades everything Om sarva-vidh-bhaanuve namah Prostrations to He who is all-knowing and effulgent Om vishvak-senaya namah Prostrations to He whom no army can withstand 125 Om janaar-danaya namah Prostrations to He who gives sorrow and joy as per the karmaphala Om vedaya namah Prostrations to He who gives knowledge Om vedavide namah Prostrations to He who knows the Vedas Om avya-angaya namah Prostrations to He who has no imperfections Om vedangaya namah Prostrations to He whose limbs are the Vedas Om vedavide namah Prostrations to He who contemplates on the Vedas Om kavaye namah Prostrations to He who poet-seer of the Vedas Om loka-dhyak-shaya namah Prostrations to He who presides over the fields of all experiences Om sura-dhyak-shaya namah Prostrations to He who protects the heavens and devas Om dharma-dhyak-shaya namah Prostrations to He who presides over all activities of all living organisms Om krita-kritaya namah Prostrations to He who rules what is and will manifest Om chatur-atmane namah Prostrations to He who transcends the waker, dreamer, sleeper and states Om chatur-vyu-haya namah Prostrations to He who for creation of plurality becomes Vasudeva, Samkarshana, Pradyumna and Aniruddha Om chatur-damshtraya namah Prostrations to He whose glory is realised through four steps: grinding, crushing, enduring fearful experiences of duality and experiencing the nondual Self. Vishnu Puja 255

Om chatur bhujaya namah Prostrations to He who has four hands holding conch, discus, mace and lotus to maintain dharma amongst mankind Om bhraaji-shnuhave namah Prostrations to He who illumines everything Om bhojanaya namah Prostrations to He who enjoys all fields of experiences of all senses Om bhoktre namah Prostrations to He who is the experiencer as enjoyer and sufferer through maya Om sahishnuve namaha jagadaadi-jaya namah Prostrations to He who is able to suffer in detachment Om anghaya namh Prostrations to He who has no imperfections Om vijayaya namah Prostrations to He who is victorious Om jetre namah Prostrations to He who is ever successful Om vishva-yonaye namah Prostrations to He who is the cause of the universe Om punar-vasave namah Prostrations to He who comes to live again and again in various living eqipments 150 Om upendraya namah Prostrations to He who is the younger brother of Indra as Vamana Om vamanaya namah Prostrations to He who is the fifth incaration of Vishnu Om praanshave namah Prostrations to He whose body of Vaamana magnified Om amoghaya namah Prostrations to He whose activities always have a purpose Om shuchaye namah Prostrations to He who is spotlessly clean Om urjitaya namah Prostrations to He who has infinite vitality Om atindraya namah Prostrations to He who transcends Indraís mind and intellect Om samgrahaya namah Prostrations to He who holds the entire world in his embrace 256 The Cosmic Connection

Om sargaya namah Prostrations to He who has created the world out of his own being Om dhritatmane namah Prostrations to He who supports himself Om niyamaya namah Prostrations to He who prescribes the laws of nature Om yamaya namah Prostrations to He who administers the forces prescribed by law Om veghaya namah Prostrations to He who is the knowledge by which all other knowledge is known Om vaidhaya namah Prostrations to He who is the supreme physician Om sada-yogine namah Prostrations to He who is ever in yoga identified with the self Om virghane namah Prostrations to He who destroys adharma Om madhavaya namah Prostrations to He who is the lord of Lakshmi Om madhuve namah Prostrations to He who is sweet like nectar Om ati-indraya namah Prostrations to He who is beyond the sense organs Om maha-mayaaya namah Prostrations to He who is the master of maya Om mahotsa-haya namah Prostrations to He who is the ever dynamic enthusiast and accomplisher Om maha-balaya namah Prostrations to He who is the supreme strength Om maha-bhudhaye namah Prostrations to He who is the reservoir of Intelligence Om maha-viryaya namah Prostrations to He who is the supreme creative essence Om maha-shaktaye namah Prostrations to He who is all-powerful 125 Om maha-dhyutaye namah Prostrations to He who is the illuminator and source of light in the moon, sun, and stars ñ the light of all lights. Om anir-deshya-vapushe namah Prostrations to He who cannot be described, explained or defined Vishnu Puja 257

Om srimate namah Prostrations to He who is wedded to Shree Om amey-atmane namah Prostrations to He who expresses himself in every equipment Om mahaadrid-rashe namah Prostrations to He who supports the Mandara mountain Om mahesh-vasaya namah Prostrations to He who wields the great bow Saranga Om mahi-bhatre namah Prostrations to He who is the husband of Mother Earth Om sri-nivasaya namah Prostrations to He who lives in the permanent abode of Shree Om santaam gataye namah Prostrations to He who is the final goal Om anirudhaya namah Prostrations to He who cannot be resisted Om sura-nandaya namah Prostrations to He who doles out happiness Om govindaya namah Prostrations to He who is the supporter of everything Om govindaam pataye namah Prostrations to He who is the lord of the wise Om marichaye namah Prostrations to He who illumines worldly knowledge Om dam-naya namah Prostrations to He who restrains rakshasic impulses Om hansaya namah Prostrations to He who is Brahman despite bodily conditionings Om suparnaya namah Prostrations to He who has beautiful wings Om bhuja-gautamaya namah Prostrations to He who is Ananta among serpents Om hiranyana-naabhaya namah Prostrations to He who supports the creator at his navel Om supatase namah Prostrations to He who has glorious concentration power Om padmanaa-bhaya namah Prostrations to He who supports the creative power at his navel Om praja-pataye namah 258 The Cosmic Connection

Prostrations to He who is lord of creatures Om amrityu-ve namah Prostrations to He who knows no decay Om sarva-drikshe namah Prostrations to He who is the seer and knower of everything Om simhaya namah Prostrations to He who destroys 200 Om sam-dhatre namah Prostrations to He who correlates actions with fruits of action Om sam-dimate namah Prostrations to He who is engineer of individuality Om stiraya namah Prostrations to He who is consistent Om ajaya namah Prostrations to He who is unborn Om durmarshanaya namah Prostrations to He who cannot be attacked or vanquished Om saastre namah Prostrations to He who is ever consistent Om vishrut-atmane namah Prostrations to He who is the pure Self Om suraari-dhne namah Prostrations to He who destroys enemies of God Om gurave namah Prostrations to He who is the Teacher in all spiritual studies Om guru-tamaya namah Prostrations to He who is the greatest teacher of the Vedas Om dhaamane namah Prostrations to He who is the sacred destination of pilgrimage Om satyaya namah Prostrations to He who is Himself the Truth Om satya-paraa-kramaya namah Prostrations to He who is truthfulness in the harbour of fools Om nimishaya namah Prostrations to He who is introverted and unwinking Om animi-shaya namah Prostrations to He who remains unwinking and knowing without cessation Om ragvine namah Prostrations to He who wears a garland of undecaying flowers Vishnu Puja 259

Om vachas-pataye udhara-diya namah Prostrations to He who champions the Law of Life Om agranye namah Prostrations to He who guides us to the peak Om gramanye namah Prostrations to He who collects, controls and guides his flock Om srimate namah Prostrations to He who is Shree reperesenting effulgence,light and consciousness Om nyayaya namah Prostrations to He who is justice Om netre namah Prostrations to He who protects all living creatures in the world Om samirnaya namah Prostrations to He who administers the physiological pranas and the physical body Om sahasra-murdhane namah Prostrations to He who has an endless number of heads Om vishv-atmane namah Prostrations to He who is the very soul of the universe 225 Om sahasr-akshaya namah Prostrations to He who has an infinite form with a thousand eyes Om sahasra-pade namah Prostrations to He whose infinite form has a thousand feet Om avarta-naaya namah Prostrations to He who is the unseen dynamism twirling behind the wheel of Time Om nivrit-atmane namah Prostrations to He who is the pure Self and free of modifications Om sam-vritaya namah Prostrations to He who is veiled from recognition Om sam-pramarda-naya namah Prostrations to He who relentlessly persues the sensuous and evil-minded Om ahassam-vartakaya namah Prostrations to He who thrills the day and works vigorously Om vahniye namah Prostrations to He who is worshipped as Fire Om anilaya namah Prostrations to He who experiences to satisfy the inner man 260 The Cosmic Connection

Om dharani-dharaya namah Prostrations to He who supports the earthly experiences of creatures Om supra-sadaya namah Prostrations to He who bestows grace Om prasan-atmane namah Prostrations to He who is pure and untouched by the compulsions of matter Om vishva-drishe namah Prostrations to He who is the mighty source of all existence Om vishva-bhuje namah Prostrations to He who enjoys all experiences Om vibhave namah Prostrations to He who manifests in a variety of forms Om sat-krite namah Prostrations to He who adores the good and wise Om sat kritaya namah Prostrations to He who is adored by the good and the wise Om saadhave namah Prostrations to He who follows the codes of righteous living Om jahanave namah Prostrations to He who is leader among men Om naarayanaya namah Prostrations to He who is the sole refuge for all living creatures and the controller of the very source of all existence in the elements Om narahya namah Prostrations to He who guides creatures according to their actions Om asankhye-yaya namah Prostrations to He who has innumerable forms Om apramey-atmane namah Prostrations to He who has the nature of the Self Om vishish-taya namah Prostrations to He who transcends everything Om sishta-kritey namah Prostrations to He who governs the universe 250 Om shuchaya namah Prostrations to He who is pure Om sidhartaya namah Prostrations to He who has gained all that has to be gained through four purusharthas [dharma, artha, kama and moksha Om sidha-sankalpaaya namah Vishnu Puja 261

Prostrations to He who attains all that he intellectually wills and wishes Om sidhi-daaya namah Prostrations to He who is the giver of appropriate reward for all actions Om sidhi-sadhanaya namah Prostrations to He who is the secret force goading seekers to continue seeking Om vrishaa-hine namah Prostrations to He who is the controller of all actions and the dispenser of all results Om vrisha-bhaya namah Prostrations to He who showers health, devotion and silence in all seekers Om vishnave namah Prostrations to He who is all-pervading Om vrish-parvane namah Prostrations to He who is the ladder to the ultimate reality Om vrisho-dharaya namah Prostrations to He from whose belly, life showers faith, which is the centre of creation and dissolution Om vardhanaya namah Prostrations to He who nurtures and nourishes material and spiritual needs Om vardha-maanaya namah Prostrations to He who can grow into any dimension Om vivik-taya namah Prostrations to He who stands apart from everything Om sruti-saagaraya namah Prostrations to He who is the ocean of all scriptural thought Om subhujaya namah Prostrations to He who has graceful arms Om dur-dharaya namah Prostrations to He who cannot be comprehend even by great yogis Om vaag-mine namah Prostrations to He who eloquent in his own glory Om mahendraya namah Prostrations to He who is Lord of Indra [mind] Om vasu-daya namah Prostrations to He who enriches one in prosperity and spiritual fulfillments Om vasave namah Prostrations to He who manifests as the sun, which nurtures and nourishes the world Om naik-rupaya namah 262 The Cosmic Connection

Prostrations to He who exists as infinite variety of names and forms Om brihad-rupaya namah Prostrations to He who is vast Om sipivish-taya namah Prostrations to He who is the supreme deity of the sun expressing as light and energy Om prakasha-naya namah Prostrations to He who illuminates as the all-pervading consciousness Om ojas-tejo-dhuti-dharaya namah Prostrations to He who is the possessor of virility, brilliance and beauty 275 Om prakash-atmane namah Prostrations to He who is the effulgent Self Om pratap-naaya namah Prostrations to He who manifests as thermal energy and lends life potential to the atmosphere Om ridhaya namah Prostrations to He who is ever prosperous as lord of Lakshmi Om sparshta aksharaya namah Prostrations to He who is clearly the sound Om Om mantraya namah Prostrations to He who is of the nature of mantras that take one to the Absolute Om chandramshave namah Prostrations to He who reflects the peace of Vishnu in the moonbeams Om bhaskar-dyutaye namah Prostrations to He who is the effulgence of the sun Om amritaam-soodh-bhavaya namah Prostrations to He who is the begetter of the moon, the first born from the churning of the milky ocean Om bhaanuve namah Prostrations to He who expresses himself as the sun for blessing the world Om shash-bindhave namah Prostrations to He who nourishes with the help of the spotted moon Om sureshvaraya namah Prostrations to He who is the god of gods Om ausha-dhaya namah Prostrations to He who is the medicine that cures the illness of samsar Om jagat setave namah Prostrations to He who is himself the bridge across the sea of samsar Om satya-dharma-para-kramaya namah Vishnu Puja 263

Prostrations to He who champions truth, righteousness and heroism Om bhut-bhavya-bhava-nathaya namah Prostrations to He who is the lord of Time in the present, past and future Om pavanaya namah Prostrations to He who purifies everything Om paavanaya namah Prostrations to He who as air has filled the universe Om analaya namah Prostrations to He who is of the form of fire Om kama-ghne namah Prostrations to He who destroys desires Om kama-krite namah Prostrations to He who fulfills all desires Om kantaya namah Prostrations to He who has an enchanting form Om kaamaya namah Prostrations to He who is the beloved Om kama-pradaya namah Prostrations to He who fulfills desires, both materialistic and spiritual Om prabhuve namah Prostrations to He who is the great Lord who owns and empowers everything Om yugaadi-krite namah Prostrations to He who is the divider of yugas 300 Om yuga-varthaya namah Prostrations to He who is the power behind the wheel of Time and the associated Yugas Om naika-mayaya namah Prostrations to He whose delussory forms are endless Om maha-shanaya namah Prostrations to He who swallows all perceptions, emotions and thoughts due to individual vasanas while in deep meditation Om adrish-yaya namah Prostrations to He who is the very perceiver of all perceptions Om vyakta-rupaya namah Prostrations to He who has a clearly perceptible form to the meditator in meditation Om sahasra-jite namah Prostrations to He who vanquishes the hosts of passion, lust, greed, jealousy that steal the seekerís peace and tranquility 264 The Cosmic Connection

Om anantajite namah Prostrations to He who is ever victorious Om ishtaya namah Prostrations to He who is invoked in rituals or as a beloved ishta Om vishish-taya namah Prostrations to He who is the noblest and the most sacred Om shishta ishtaya namah Prostrations to He who is the most beloved of those spiritually inclined Om shikhandine namah Prostrations to He who wears peacock feathers Om nahu-shaya namah Prostrations to He who is familiar with human bondages by maya Om vrishaya namah Prostrations to He who is none other than the Self Om krodh-ghne namah Prostrations to He who destroys anger Om krodha-krita-krite namah Prostrations to He who generates in devotees anger against baser instincts Om vishva-baahuve namah Prostrations to He who has numerous arms Om mahi-dharaya namah Prostrations to He who is the substratum and support of the earth Om achyutaya namah Prostrations to He who does not undergo change [birth, growth, decay, disease, death] Om prathi-taya namah Prostrations to He who spreads himself everywhere Om pranaaya namah Prostrations to He who is an expression of life force or prana Om pranadaya namah Prostrations to He who gives strength as prana to everything Om vaasu-vaanu-jaya namah Prostrations to He who incarnates as the brother of Indra Om apaam nidhaye namah Prostrations to He who is the treasurer of all waters in the ocean Om adhishtaa-naya namah Prostrations to He who is the substratum of the universe Om apra-mattaya namah Prostrations to He who never commits mistakes in judgement 325 Vishnu Puja 265

Om pratishti-taya namah Prostrations to He who the ultimate cause of the universe Om skandaya namah Prostrations to He whose glory is expressed as Subramanyam, the commander of the righteous army Om skanda-dharaya namah Prostrations to He who upholds righteousness Om dhuryaya namah Prostrations to He who carries the responsibilities of the world Om varadhaya namah Prostrations to He who blesses all devotees and gives them their deserving boons Om vayu-vaahanaya namah Prostrations to He who controls and moves the winds Om vasu-devaya namah Prostrations to He who is at one and the same time Vasu [indweller of all creatures] and Deva [one who revels in illuminating] Om brihad-bhaanave namah Prostrations to He who illuminates the world with the endless rays of the sun and the moon Om adi-devaya namah Prostrations to He who is the first cause of all names and forms Om puran-daraya namah Prostrations to He who destroys the three cities of the body [gross, subtle and causal] while in meditation Om ashokaya namah Prostrations to He who has no sorrows Om taaranaya namah Prostrations to He who enables us to swim across samsara Om taraya namah Prostrations to He who saves us from the fear of rebirth Om sooraya namah Prostrations to He who is the source of all valiant efforts of man Om -ye namah Prostrations to He who is born in the family of Saurih or Vasudeva Om janesh-varaya namah Prostrations to He who is lord of all creatures Om anu-koolaya namah Prostrations to He who is a hearty well-wisher of all 266 The Cosmic Connection

Om sataavart taaya namah Prostrations to He who takes infinite number of forms Om padmine namah Prostrations to He who holds a lotus in his hand Om padma nibheksha-naya namah Prostrations to He whose eyes are as lovely as the lotus Om padmana-bhaya namah Prostrations to He who carries a lotus on his navel Om aravindaak-shaya namah Prostrations to He who has eyes as beautiful as the lotus Om padma garbhaya namah Prostrations to He who is meditated upon within the heart cave Om sharira-bhrite namah Prostrations to He who nourishes all bodies Om mahard-dhihe namah Prostrations to He who has great powers 350 Om ridhayaya namah Prostrations to He who has expanded himself to become the universe Om vriddh-atmane namah Prostrations to He who is the first Self before creation Om mahaak-shaya namah Prostrations to He who is the great eye that sees into all bosoms, at all times Om garuda-dhvajaya namah Prostrations to He who has the garuda as the insignia on his flag Om atulaya namah Prostrations to He whose equal does not exist Om sara-bhaya namah Prostrations to He who dwells and shines through bodies Om bhimaaya namah Prostrations to He who is the terrible to the sensuous Om sama-yagyaya namah Prostrations to He who knows all the philosophical systems Om havir-haraya namah Prostrations to He who is the receiver of all oblations Om sarva--lakshanyaya namah Prostrations to He who is the ultimate Self through scientific and philosophical inquiry Om lakshmi-vate namah Prostrations to He who is the consort of Lakshmi Vishnu Puja 267

Om samitin-jayaya namah Prostrations to He who is ever-victorious Om viksha-raya namah Prostrations to He who is imperishable Om rohi-taya namah Prostrations to He who came as the first incarnation as fish Om margaya namah Prostrations to He who the path seekers hold to while travelling the path to the self Om hetave namah Prostrations to He who is the cause of the universe Om daamo-daraya namah Prostrations to He who is the one known by a purified mind obtained through self-control Om sahaya namah Prostrations to He who is all-enduring Om mahi-dharaya namah Prostrations to He who is the supporter of the earth Om maha-bhaagaya namah Prostrations to He who has beautiful limbs Om vega-vate namah Prostrations to He who is swift Om amitaa sanaya namah Prostrations to He who [of endless appetite] is the consumer of the universe at pralaya Om udh-bhavaya namah Prostrations to He who is the material cause of the whole universe Om shobha-naya namah Prostrations to He who thrills and agitates the mortal matter [prakriti] and energy [purusha] Om devayah namah Prostrations to He who revels through his play 375 Om sri-garbhaya namah Prostrations to He in whom are all glories Om paramesh-varaya namah Prostrations to He who is the supreme consciousness expressing in all deities Om karanaya namah Prostrations to He who is the ideal tool for the creation of the universe Om kaaranaya namah 268 The Cosmic Connection

Prostrations to He who is the instrumental cause of the universe Om kartre namah Prostrations to He in whose presence all activities are possible Om vikartre namah Prostrations to He who out of himself has created the universe Om gahanaya namah Prostrations to He who cannot be comprehended Om guhaya namah Prostrations to He who is concealed in the heart cave Om vyava-saayaya namah Prostrations to He who is resolute and without vacillation Om vyavasta-naya namah Prostrations to He who is the substratum of plurality Om samstha-naya namah Prostrations to He in whom all thoughts, perceptions and emotions retire as if in deep sleep, through pralaya Om staan-daaya namah Prostrations to He who assigns the right abode accrding to a manís actions Om dhruvaya namah Prostrations to He who is changeless amidst change Om parard dhihaye namah Prostrations to He who is the supreme manifestation Om param-spashtaya namah Prostrations to He who is experienced vividly by those who meditate upon him Om tushtaya namah Prostrations to He who is ever-contented Om pushtaya namah Prostrations to He who all ever-full and all-pervading Om shubeksha-naya namah Prostrations to He whose gaze brings auspiciousness Om raamaya namah Prostrations to He who revels everywhere Om viramaya namah Prostrations to He who is the abode of perfect rest Om vir-jaaya namah Prostrations to He who is not agitated in the mind Om maar-gaya namah Prostrations to He who is the only path to the self Om neyaya namah Vishnu Puja 269

Prostrations to He who is the ultimate guide to the Self Om nayaya namah Prostrations to He who leads the seeker to the Self Om anayaya namah Prostrations to He who is the ultimate guide 400 Om viraya namah Prostrations to He who is valiant Om shakti-mataam shreshtaya namah Prostrations to He who is the best among those with power Om dharmaya namah Prostrations to He who is the one Self in all persons Om dharma-vid uttamaya namah Prostrations to He who is the highest among men of realisation Om vainku-taya namah Prostrations to He who prevents man from going astray into wrong paths Om purushaya namah Prostrations to He who dwells in all bodies Om pranaya namah Prostrations to He who is bodies in the form of prana and propels the sense organs in their own fields Om pranadaya namah Prostrations to He who gives prana to all creatures Om pranavaya namah Prostrations to He who is praised even by gods Om prithuve namah Prostrations to He who is expansive and all-pervasive Om hiranya-garbhaya namah Prostrations to He who is the expression of the creative urge of Narayana Om shatru-ghnaaya namah Prostrations to He who is the destroyer of enemies Om vyaap-taaya namah Prostrations to He who pervades the cause and its effects Om vaayave namah Prostrations to He who is of the form of air ñ all-pervading Om adhoksh-jaya namah Prostrations to He who is not available for the power of the senses to perceive Om rituve namah Prostrations to He who is the lord of seasons and time Om su-darshanaya namah 270 The Cosmic Connection

Prostrations to He who is easy to perceive through sincere devotion Om kaalaya namah Prostrations to He who assesses merit and demerit to experience right results Om parmeshti-ne namah Prostrations to He who is centred in his own glory Om pari-grahaya namah Prostrations to He who receives and appreciates any gift from his devotees Om ugraya namah Prostrations to He who gives fear to those diabolicallly evil Om samvat-saraya namah Prostrations to He who is Time period in which creatures exist Om dakshaya namah Prostrations to He who smartly manages the cosmos smartly Om vishraamaya namah Prostrations to He who is where samsarins? find their nexus of rest Om vishva-dakshinaya namah Prostrations to He who is efficiently skillful 425 Om vistaraya namah Prostrations to He who expands himself into the universe from a point of pralaya Om staavara-staanave namah Prostrations to He who is firm and motionless Om pramaanaya namah Prostrations to He who is the underlying proof of all intellectual arguments and scientific discussions for methodology Om bijam avyayaya namah Prostrations to He who is the immutable seed and undecaying root of all things Om arthaya namah Prostrations to He who is worshipped by all Om anarthaya namah Prostrations to He who to whom there is nothing left to fullfil Om maha-koshaya namah Prostrations to He who has macrocosmic sheaths of the universe Om maha-bhogaya namah Prostrations to He who is of the nature of bliss Om maha-dhanaya namah Prostrations to He who is supremely rich Om anirvi-naaya namah Prostrations to He who is griefless because he has no desires Om stavish-taya namah Vishnu Puja 271

Prostrations to He who is gross as the macrocosmic universe Om abhuve namah Prostrations to He who has no birth Om dharma-yupaya namah Prostrations to He who is the very post to which all dharma is tied Om maha-makhaya namah Prostrations to He to whom all sacrifices are offered for the sake of liberation Om nakshatrane-maye namah Prostrations to He who the very axle around which all the constellations twirls Om naksh-trine namah Prostrations to He who is the lord of the constellation Om kshamaya namah Prostrations to He who is extremely patient with erring devotees Om kshaamaya namah Prostrations to He who is untouched by scarcity Om sami-hanaya namah Prostrations to He whose desires are auspicious Om yagyaya namah Prostrations to He who is of the nature of all sacrifices Om ijyaya namah Prostrations to He who is invoked through yagnas Om mahejyaya namah Prostrations to He who is the object of the yagna Om krituve namah Prostrations to He who to whom a yagna is offered wherein there is a pillar to which the sacrificial animal is tied Om satraya namah Prostrations to He who protects the good Om sataam gataye namah Prostrations to He who is refuge to the good 450 Om sarva-darsheene namah Prostrations to He who is the all-knower of consciousness of all creatures Om vimukt-atmane namah Prostrations to He who is the ever-liberated Self Om sarva-gyaaya namah Prostrations to He who is omniscient Om gyana-mutta-maya namah Prostrations to He who is the knowledge of all knowledges Om suvra-taya namah 272 The Cosmic Connection

Prostrations to He who performs all vows Om sumukhaya namah Prostrations to He who has an enchantin face Om suksha-maya namah Prostrations to He who is the subtlest of the subtle Om sughoshaya namah Prostrations to He who is the auspicious sound Om sukhdaya namah Prostrations to He who confers happiness Om suhrite namah Prostrations to He who is a friend of all living creatures Om manoharaya namah Prostrations to He who is charming Om jita-krodhaya namah Prostrations to He who has conquered anger Om virbaa-huve namah Prostrations to He who has valiant arms Om vidaara-naya namah Prostrations to He who as Narahsimha splits asunder Om svaap-naya namah Prostrations to He who puts to sleep On svava-saya namah Prostrations to He who has everything under his control Om vyapi-ne namah Prostrations to He who is all-pervading Om naik-atmane namah Prostrations to He who expresses himself as many Om naik-karma-krite namah Prostrations to He who performs many actions Om vatsaraya namah Prostrations to He who is the abode in which all creatures live Om vatsa-laya namah Prostrations to He who is supremely affectionate Om vatisne namah Prostrations to He who is the infinite father of all Om ratna-garbhaya namah Prostrations to He who is jewel-wombed and has wealth concealed within Om dhanekshva-raya namah Prostrations to He who is the lord of wealth Vishnu Puja 273

Om dharma-gupe namah Prostrations to He who protects wealth 475 Om dharma-krite namah Prostrations to He who exemplifies righteous living Om dharmine namah Prostrations to He who is the supporter of righteousness Om sat namah Prostrations to He who is existence in all things and beings Om asate namah Prostrations to He who seems confined to plurality Om ksharaya namah Prostrations to He who seems to be perishing in all things but is the changeless core within all changes Om aksharaya namah Prostrations to He who is the imperishable in all change Om avignyaatre namah Prostrations to He who is the observer of the perceiver-feeler-thinker individuality Om sahasraam-shave namah Prostrations to He who is the thousand rayed pure consciousness effulgent like the sun Om vidhatre namah Prostrations to He who is the final substratum for everything Om krita-lakshanaaya namah Prostrations to He who is famous because of six qualities [glory, righteousness, fame, wealth, knowledge and detachment] Om gabhastine-maye namah Prostrations to He who is the centre of the planetary system Om sattva-staaya namah Prostrations to He who abides in sattva Om simhaya namah Prostrations to He who is the lion who fights negative forces Om bhuta-maheshvaraya namah Prostrations to He who is the great lord of beings Om adi-devaya namah Prostrations to He who is the first of all deities Om mahadevaya namah Prostrations to He who is the great deity Himself Om deveshaya namah 274 The Cosmic Connection

Prostrations to He who is the lord of the devas Om deva-bridh-gurave namah Prostrations to He who is the king of gods like Indra who is also called Deva Bhrit and also their teacher Om utaraya namah Prostrations to He who lifts us from the ocean of samsar Om gopatiye namah Prostrations to He who is Krishna incarnation Om goptaye namah Prostrations to He who is a protector of all creatures Om gyana-gamyaya namah Prostrations to He who is attained through subtle perception Om puraatanaya namah Prostrations to He who was there even before Time Om sharira-bhuta-bhrite namah Prostrations to He who nourishes the very elements that constitutes bodies Om bhoktre namah Prostrations to He who is enjoyer 500 Om kapindraya namah Prostrations to He who is lord of the monkeys Om bhuri-dakshinaya namah Prostrations to He who gives away large gifts at the end of sacrifices Om somapaaya namah Prostrations to He who drinks the soma juice at the end of yagnas Om amrita-paya namah Prostrations to He who drinks the nectar of blissful immortality Om soma-paya namah Prostrations to He who is the form of the moon Om puru-jite namah Prostrations to He who has many enemies Om purusartha-maya namah Prostrations to He who is ideal of human effort[dharma-artha-kama-moksha] Om vinayaya namah Prostrations to He who humiliates those who are unrighteous Om jayaya namah Prostrations to He who is victorious Om satya-sandhaya namah Prostrations to He who is of truthful resolutions Om daarshaa-haaya namah Vishnu Puja 275

Prostrations to He who was born of Yadav clan Om saasvataam pataye namah Prostrations to He who is the lord of the people Om jivaya namah Prostrations to He who removes limitations of a jeeva and gives bliss of oneness Om vinayitaa-sakshine namah Prostrations to He who is the witness of modesty Om mukundaya namah Prostrations to He who gives liberation to those trying to free themselves of matter - conditionings Om amit-vikramaya namah Prostrations to He whose steps are immeasureable Om ambho-nidhaye namah Prostrations to He who is the substratum of all types of creatures (devas, manushya and asuras) Om anant-atmane namah Prostrations to He who is undefeated by time, space or substance and is the infinite Self Om mahoda dhishayaya namah Prostrations to He who rests on the great ocean Om anta-kaya namah Prostrations to He who brings death and initiates constant change and evolution of the world Om ajaaya namah Prostrations to He who is unborn, deathless and changeless Om mahaar haya namah Prostrations to He who deserves highest worship Om svaa-bhaavyaa-ya namah Prostrations to He who is ever rooted in the nature of his own Self Om jitaa-mitraya namah Prostrations to He who has conquered all enemies within and without Om pramoda-naaya namah Prostrations to He who constantly enjoys his own blissful nature 525 Om anandaya namah Prostrations to He who is a mass of pure bliss wherein others enjoy only parts of it Om nandanaya namah Prostrations to He who makes others blissful Om nandaya namah 276 The Cosmic Connection

Prostrations to He who is free of limitations of worldly pleasures Om satya-dharmane namah Prostrations to He who has in himself all the dharmas [kindness, non-injury, charity, compassion] Om trivi-kramaya namah Prostrations to He who has in three steps [fields of experience in waking, dreaming and deep sleep] as Vamana taken the spiritual seeker into the centre of his own Self Om maharishaye kapilacharyaya namah Prostrations to He who manifested as the maharishi who had mastered all the four Vedas and established the Sankhyan philosophy Om kritagnaya namah Prostrations to He who created and is the knower of creation Om medhini-pataye namah Prostrations to He who is lord of the earth Om tripadaya namah Prostrations to He who took three steps Om tri-dashaa dhyaak-shya namah Prostrations to He who is witness to taking the three steps and overcoming the three gunas Om maha-shringaya namah Prostrations to He who is the lord as fish incarnation with horns who tied Himself to a ship during the great deluge Om kritaant-krite namah Prostrations to He who destroys vasanas and gives liberation Om maha-vara-haya namah Prostrations to He who manifests as the Great Boar Om govindaya namah Prostrations to He who is known by the vedic declarations Om sushenaya namah Prostrations to He who has a charming army of ganas [spirits] Om kanak aangadine namah Prostrations to He who is covered with golden armlets Om guhayaaya namah Prostrations to He who is mysterious and profound Om gabhiraya namah Prostrations to He who is unfathomable Om gaha-naaya namah Prostrations to He who is imponderable Vishnu Puja 277

Om guptaaya namah Prostrations to He who is well concealed Om chakr-gadaa-dharaya namah Prostrations to He who is the bearer of discus and mace Om vedaahse namah Prostrations to He who is the supreme expressing as the world of plurality Om svaangaya namah Prostrations to He who is beautiful in shape, form and proportions Om ajitaya namah Prostrations to He who has been vanquished by none Om krishnaya namah Prostrations to He who expresses in manís physical, mental and intellectual capabilities as the unknown factor 550 Om dridhaaya namah Prostrations to He who is firm in convictions, judgements, l ove and mercy Om Shankar shanoya achyutaya namah Prostrations to He in whom the whole world of plurality merges in His essence Om varunaya namah Prostrations to He who is the sun dipping in the western horizon Om vaarunaya namah Prostrations to He who is both Vashishta and , the sons of Varuna whose nature is never veiled Om vrikshaya namah Prostrations to He who emerges into the world of names and forms as a tree Om pushkarakshaya namah Prostrations to He who pervades all of space and has lotus like eyes Om maha-manase namah Prostrations to He who has a great mind Om bhagvate namah Prostrations to He who has all the glories [wealth, fame, power, dharma, character, knowledge and dispassion] Om bhagahaane namah Prostrations to He who destroy all the glories and absorbs them into himself Om anandine namah Prostrations to He who gives delight Om vana maaline namah Prostrations to He who always wears a garland of leaves and flowers to represent the subtle elements Om halaayu dhaaya namah 278 The Cosmic Connection

Prostrations to He who is Balarama who has the plough as his weapon Om adityaya namah Prostrations to He who was born as the son of and Kashyap as Vamana Om jyotir-adityaya namah Prostrations to He who is resplendent as the sun Om sahishnuve namah Prostrations to He who calmly endures pairs of opposites Om gati-shattamaya namah Prostrations to He who is the ultimate refuge of devotees as both the goal and the path Om sudhan vaane namah Prostrations to He who carries the great bow Saarnga Om khanda parashuve namah Prostrations to He who has the axe as weapon Om daarunaya namah Prostrations to He who is merciless towards the unrighteous Om dravina pradaya namah Prostrations to He who gives wealth of the shastras in abundance Om diva-sprikashe namah Prostrations to He who reaches the sky when revealing the vishvarupa Om sarva drik vyasaaya namah Prostrations to He who one creates many men of wisdom Om vaachas-pataye ayoni jaya namah Prostrations to He who is not born through a motherís womb Om trisaamne namah Prostrations to He who is glorified in the Sama Veda by divine songs Om saamagaya namah Prostrations to He who invokes the sacredness of Sama Veda Om saamne namah Prostrations to He who is the lord of Sama Veda Om nirvaanaaya namah Prostrations to He who is ever-free and ever-liberated Om bhesha-jaya namah Prostrations to He who is the specific cure for the disease of samsara Om bhishaje namah Prostrations to He who is the physician for samsara Om samnyas-krite namah Prostrations to He who institutes the fourth stage of life as samnyaasi Om samaaya namah Vishnu Puja 279

Prostrations to He who exists without agitation Om shaantaya namah Prostrations to He who is quiet within and perfectly controlled Om nishtaa-yai namah Prostrations to He who is the abode of beings in manifestation and in pralaya Om shaantaye namah Prostrations to He whose very nature is peace Om paraa-yanaya namah Prostrations to He who is the Supreme Goal Om shubhangya namah Prostrations to He who has the most beautiful form Om shanti-daya namah Prostrations to He who gives peace capable of destroying likes and dislikes Om sreshta namah Prostrations to He who is the creator of all beings Om kumudaya namah Prostrations to He who delights in the earth Om kuvale shaaya namah Prostrations to He who reclines on the waters Om gohitaya namah Prostrations to He who works for the welfare of animals facing irresponsible havoc Om gopatiye namah Prostrations to He who is the husband of the earth Om goptre namah Prostrations to He who protects the universe by the power of maya Om vrish-bhaakshaya namah Prostrations to He who fullfils unspoken desires Om vrish-priyaya namah Prostrations to He who delights in righteous actions Om ani-vartine namah Prostrations to He who knows no retreat Om nivrit-atmane namah Prostrations to He who is fully restrained from sense indulgences Om samk shreptre namah Prostrations to He who absorbs all multiplicity into Himself Om kshema-krite namah Prostrations to He who protects and guides devotees Om shivaya namah 280 The Cosmic Connection

Prostrations to He who is also adored as Shiva 600 Om sri-vatsa-vakshaase namah Prostrations to He who has the sacred insignia on his chest Om sri-vaasaaya namah Prostrations to He who is the dwelling place of Lakshmi Om sri-pataye namah Prostrations to He who is the lord of Shri Lakshmi Om sri-mataam varaya namah Prostrations to He who is the best among the Vedas Om sri-daaya namah Prostrations to He who gives abundance to all his sincere devotees Om sri-shaaya namah Prostrations to He who nourishes his devotees Om sri- nivasaya namah Prostrations to He who dwells and manifests in the good Om sri nidhaye namah Prostrations to He who is the treasure house of Shree Om sri-vibhavanaya namah Prostrations to He who is the distributor of Shree Om sri-dharaya namah Prostrations to He who carries Shree in his heart at all times Om sri karaaya namah Prostrations to He who confers the grace of Shree on his sincere devotees Om shreyase namah Prostrations to He who is the way and the goal Om sri-mate namah Prostrations to He who possesses all glories Om lokatra-asrayaaya namah Prostrations to He who is the shelter of the three worlds of experiences Om svakshaaya namah Prostrations to He who is beautiful eyed Om svanghaya namah Prostrations to He who has beautiful limbs Om shataa nandanaya namah Prostrations to He who divides himself into innumerable jivas Om nandaye namah Prostrations to He who is Infinite bliss Om jyotir-ganeshvaraya namah Prostrations to He who is the light of lights Vishnu Puja 281

Om vijit-atmane namah Prostrations to He who has conquered the senses Om avidey atmane namah Prostrations to He who lives under the command of the self Om sat-kirtaye namah Prostrations to He who is pure and famous Om chin nasam-shayah namah Prostrations to He whose doubts are ever at rest Om udirnaya namah Prostrations to He who is beyond finitude Om sarvatah chakshu sheh namah Prostrations to He who has eyes everywhere 625 Om anishaya namah Prostrations to He who has none to rule over him 0m shaashvata-stiraya namah Prostrations to He who is ever stable and eternal Om bhushayaya namah Prostrations to He who rested on the shores of the ocean as Rama Om bhushanaya namah Prostrations to He who adorns the world Om bhutaye namah Prostrations to He who is existence Om vishokaya namah Prostrations to He who is griefless Om shoka-nashanaya namah Prostrations to He who is destroyer of all sorrows Om archish-mate namah Prostrations to He who is effulgent as pure consciousness Om archi-taaya namah Prostrations to He who is constantly worshipped Om kumbhaya namah Prostrations to He in whom the universe rests as if in a pot Om vishudh-atmane namah Prostrations to He who is the purest soul Om vishodh-naya namah Prostrations to He who is the great purifier of vasanas Om ani-ruddhaya namah Prostrations to He who is invincible Om aprathira-thaaya namah 282 The Cosmic Connection

Prostrations to He who is never challenged by enemies Om pradyum-naya namah Prostrations to He who is very rich Om amit-vikramaya namah Prostrations to He who is of immeasureable strength Om kaala-nemi-nihaane namah Prostrations to He who slays Time Om viraya namah Prostrations to He who is ever victorious Om shauraye namah Prostrations to He who is invincible Om shura-janesh varaya namah Prostrations to He who is lord of the valiant Om trilok-atmane namah Prostrations to He who is the reality of the three worlds Om trilokeshaya namah Prostrations to He who is the lord of the three worlds Om keshavaya namah Prostrations to He who has long hair [Krishna] Om keshi-ghane namah Prostrations to He who destroys the asura Kesi Om haraye namah Prostrations to He who destroys false values 650 Om kama-devaya namah Prostrations to He who is to be loved and worshipped Om kamapaalaya namah Prostrations to He who is the fulfiller of desires Om kaamine namah Prostrations to He who has all desires fulfilled Om kantaya namah Prostrations to He who is handsome Om krita agamaya namah Prostrations to He who is the author of the shrutis and [agama] Om anirdeshya-vapushe namah Prostrations to He who is of the form indestructible Om vishnave namah Prostrations to He who is all pervading Om viraaya namah Prostrations to He who is valiant Vishnu Puja 283

Om anantaya namah Prostrations to He who is Infinite Om dhanan-jayaya namah Prostrations to He who gains wealth by conquest and prowess Om brahm- namah Prostrations to He who is a friend of Brahma Om brahma-krite namah Prostrations to He who lives in truth Om brahmane namah Prostrations to He who is the total creative force Om brahmne namah Prostrations to He who is the vastest sat chit anand Om brahma-vivardhanaya namah Prostrations to He who encourages austerities, Vedas, truth and knowledge Om brahma-vidhe namah Prostrations to He who is a knower of Brahman Om braahma-naya namah Prostrations to He who known pluralistic world is a super-imposition upon Brahman Om brahimne namah Prostrations to He who is with Brahman Om brahma-gyaya namah Prostrations to He who lives at all times in Brahman Om -priyaya namah Prostrations to He who is beloved of Brahman Om maha-kramaya namah Prostrations to He who is all pervading Om maha-karmane namah Prostrations to He who performs great deeds Om maha-tejase namah Prostrations to He who is of great resplendence Om maha-rogaya namah Prostrations to He who is the great serpent Ananta Om maha-kratuve namah Prostrations to He who is the great sacrifice of the total ego 675 Om maha-yajvaane namah Prostrations to He who has performed great yagnas Om maha-yagnyaaya namah Prostrations to He who is the great yagna 284 The Cosmic Connection

Om maha-havishe namah Prostrations to He who is the great offering Om stav-yaya namah Prostrations to He who is the object of all praise Om stava-priyaya namah Prostrations to He who is invoked through loving chants of devoted hearts Om stotraya namah Prostrations to He who is the glorious hymn Om stutiye namah Prostrations to He who is the noble act of ivoking the lord through divine praise Om stotre namah Prostrations to He who sings divine praise of nature attributed to the lord Om rana-priyaya namah Prostrations to He who is a lover of battles against unrighteousness Om purnaya namah Prostrations to He who is fullness itself Om pura-yitaayei namah Prostrations to He who is the great fulfiller Om punyaya namah Prostrations to He who is truly holy Om punya-kirtaye namah Prostrations to He who is of holy fame Om anaam-yaya namah Prostrations to He who is of pure untainted divine essence Om mano-javaya namah Prostrations to He who is quick in reaching his devotees Om tirtham-karaya namah Prostrations to He who is the trainer of pilgrims Om vasu-retase namah Prostrations to He whose essence is golden Om vasu-pradaya namah Prostrations to He who gives salvation Om vasu-pradaya namah Prostrations to He who gives worldly wealth Om vasu-devaya namah Prostrations to He who is the son of Vasudeva Om vasave namah Prostrations to He who is the refuge for all Vishnu Puja 285

Om vasu-manase namah Prostrations to He who is omnipresent and attentive to all Om havirshe namah Prostrations to He who is the oblation itself Om sad-gataye namah Prostrations to He who is the goal of noble seekers Om sad-kritaye namah Prostrations to He who maintains the rhythm of creation and preservaton 700 Om sataayai namah Prostrations to He who remains ever the same Om sad bhu-taye namah Prostrations to He who has many glories Om sat-paraya-naya namah Prostrations to He who is the goal for the good Om sura senaya namah Prostrations to He who has valiant armies Om yadu-sresh-taya namah Prostrations to He who is the best among the Yadu clan Om sani-vaasaya namah Prostrations to He who is the abode of the good Om suya-munaya namah Prostrations to He who is attended by righteous yaamunas or gopas on the Yamuna river Om bhutaa-vaasaaya namah Prostrations to He who is the dwelling-place of the elements Om vaasu-devaya namah Prostrations to He who envelops the world with maya Om sarvaasu nilayaya namah Prostrations to He who is the abode of life-energies Om analaya namah Prostrations to He who is of unlimited wealth, power and glory Om darpahane namah Prostrations to He who destroys pride in the evil Om darpadaya namah Prostrations to He who gives pride to the righteous Om driptaya namah Prostrations to He who is drunk with his own bliss Om dur-dharaya namah Prostrations to He who is the object of contemplation and difficult to attain 286 The Cosmic Connection

Om apara-jitaya namah Prostrations to He who is unvanquished Om visva-murtaye namah Prostrations to He who has the form of the universe Om maha-murtaye namah Prostrations to He who is the divine form as he reclines on the Sesha Om dipta-murtaye namah Prostrations to He who is of a resplendent form Om amurti-mate namah Prostrations to He who has no form Om aneka-murtaye namah Prostrations to He who is multi-formed Om avyaktaya namah Prostrations to He who is unmanifest Om sata-murtaye namah Prostrations to He who is of a myriad forms Om sataananaya namah Prostrations to He who is many faced Om ekaaya namah Prostrations to He who is one without a second 725 Om naik-aya namah Prostrations to He who is the many Om savaayai namah Prostrations to He who is of the nature of sacrifice Om kaaya namah Prostrations to He who is of the nature of happiness Om kasmai namah Prostrations to He who is to be inquired about [what] with diligence Om yatmai namah Prostrations to He ëwhichí is self-existent Om tasmai namah Prostrations to He who is That Om padaay anuttamaya namah Prostrations to He who is the supreme sate of perfection Om loka-bandhave namah Prostrations to He who is a friend of the world Om loka-nathaya namah Prostrations to He who is the lord of the world Om madhavaya namah Vishnu Puja 287

Prostrations to He who was born in the family of madhu as the beauty of spring Om bhaka-vatsalaya namah Prostrations to He whose love of devotees knows no bounds Om suvarna-varnaaya namah Prostrations to He who is the all illuminating pure awareness Om hem-aangaya namah Prostrations to He who has golden limbs Om varangaya namah Prostrations to He whose form is extremely lovable Om chandana angadine namah Prostrations to He who wears joy-giving armlets Om viraahane namah Prostrations to He who destroys valiant heroes to uphold righteousness Om vishamaya namah Prostrations to He who is unequalled Om shoonyaya namah Prostrations to He who is the void Om ghritaa-shihsey namah Prostrations to He who has no need for good wishes from anyone Om achalaaya namah Prostrations to He who is non-moving Om chalaaya namah Prostrations to He who is movable change Om amaanine namah Prostrations to He who has no false vanity Om maanadaya namah Prostrations to He who causes maya Om manyaaya namah Prostrations to He who is to be honoured Om loka-swamine namah Prostrations to He who is lord of the universe 750 Om triloka-drite namah Prostrations to He who supports the three worlds Om sum-edhaase namah Prostrations to He who has pure intelligence Om medhajaya namah Prostrations to He who is born of sacrifices Om dhanyaya namah Prostrations to He who is in a state of contentment 288 The Cosmic Connection

Om satya-medhase namah Prostrations to He whose intelligence never fails Om dhara-dharaya namah Prostrations to He who is the sole support of the earth Om tejo-vrishaaya namah Prostrations to He who showers radiance Om dhyuti-dharaya namah Prostrations to He who bears an effulgent form Om sarva-shaastr-bhritaam varah namah Prostrations to He who is the best amongst those who wield weapons Om pragrahaya namah Prostrations to He who is the sole receiver of all Om nigrahaya namah Prostrations to He who is invoked as the killer of the ego Om vyagraaya namah Prostrations to He who is engaged in fulfilling devoteeís desires Om naika-shringaya namah Prostrations to He who has many horns [waking, dreaming, sleeping and in awareness] Om gadhaa-grajaaya namah Prostrations to He whose younger brother [to Krishna] was called Gada Om chatur-murtaye namah Prostrations to He who has four forms [white in satya, red in treta, yellow in dvapara and black in kali yuga] Om chatur-baahuve namah Prostrations to He who has four hands Om chatur-vyuhaaya namah Prostrations to He who expresses himself in the centre of whirlpool of four sets of activities in the outer world Om chatur-gataye namah Prostrations to He who is the ultimate goal of all four groups of humanity [thinkers, rulers, traders and workers] Om chatur-atmane namah Prostrations to He who expresses as four aspects of the inner activities [body, mind, intellect, ego] Om chatur bhaavaaya namah Prostrations to He who is the source of four stages of life [dharma, artha, kaama, moksha] Om chatur ved-vide namah Vishnu Puja 289

Prostrations to He who is the knower of all four Vedas Om ek-pade namah Prostrations to He who supports the universe with his one foot Om samaa-varthaaya namah Prostrations to He who efficiently turns the wheel of life Om anir-vrit-atmane namah Prostrations to He whose mind is turned away from indulgences Om dur jayaya namah Prostrations to He who is invincible 775 Om durati-kramaya namah Prostrations to He who is difficult to be disobeyed Om dur labhaya namah Prostrations to He who is obtained with intense effort Om dur gamaya namah Prostrations to He who is realised with great difficulty Om dur gaaya namah Prostrations to He who is not easy to storm into Om dur aavaasaaya namah Prostrations to He who is not easy to lodge Om duraari-haaya namah Prostrations to He who is the slayer of demons Om shubhaangaya namah Prostrations to He who has enchanting limbs of perfect beauty Om loka-saarangaya namah Prostrations to He who has inquired into the essence beyong the universe Om sutantave namah Prostrations to He who is beautifully expanded Om tantu-vardhanaya namah Prostrations to He who sustains the continuity and fertility of the family Om indra-karmaya namah Prostrations to He who always performs glorious actions Om maha-karmane namah Prostrations to He who has accomplished great activities Om krita-karmane namah Prostrations to He who has fulfilled all his activities Om kritaa gamaya namah Prostrations to He who is the author of the Vedas Om udh- bhavaya namah Prostrations to He who is the ultimate source 290 The Cosmic Connection

Om sundaraya namah Prostrations to He who is of unrivalled beauty Om sundaaya namah Prostrations to He who purifies vasanas of sincere devotees Om ratna-naa-bhaya namah Prostrations to He who has a lovely navel Om su-lochanaya namah Prostrations to He who has enchanting eyes Om arkaaya namah Prostrations to He who has the form of the sun Om vaaj-sanaaya namah Prostrations to He who is the giver of food Om shringiney namah Prostrations to He who is incarnated as a fish Om jayantaya namah Prostrations to He who is the conquerer of all enemies Om sarvavij-jayite namah Prostrations to He who is omnicient and victorious Om suvarna-bindhave namah Prostrations to He who is the Lord of speech 800 Om akshobhyaya namah Prostrations to He who is ever unruffled Om sarva-vaagishvare-ishvaraya namah Prostrations to He who is the Lord of Speech Om maha-hradaaya namah Prostrations to He who is like a refreshing embrace of quietitude to the swimmer who plunges into a pool of meditation and devotion Om maha-garthaaya namah Prostrations to He who is the great chasm of maya Om maha-bhutaya namah Prostrations to He who is the source of the great elements Om maha nidhiye namah Prostrations to He who is the abode from which everything springs out and is also the substratum of the total play of creation which seems as if in suspended animation Om kumudaya namah Prostrations to He who gladdens the earth Om kundaraya namah Prostrations to He who tore the earth in order to kill Hiranyaaksha and gifted Vishnu Puja 291 flowers Om kundaya namah Prostrations to He who is as attractive as the kunda flowers Om parjanyaya namah Prostrations to He who is similar to the rain-bearing clouds Om paavanaya namah Prostrations to He who ever purifies impurities of mind and intellect Om anilaaya namah Prostrations to He who is the life-giver in atmospheric air Om amrutaa-shaaya namah Prostrations to He who whose greatest desire is immortality Om amruta-vapushe namah Prostrations to He whose very form is immortal Om sarva-jnaya namah Prostrations to He who is the principal knowledge through which all other knowledge is made known Om sarvato-mukhaaya namah Prostrations to He who has his head turned in all directions Om sulabhaya namah Prostrations to He who is easily attainable with heroism and right effort Om suvrataya namah Prostrations to He who has taken many auspicious forms to destroy evil Om sidhyaaya namah Prostrations to He who is pure perfection Om shatru-jite namah Prostrations to He who is ever victorious over his enemies Om shatru-taapanaya namah Prostrations to He who is the scorcher of negative tendencies or enemies Om nya-grodhaya namah Prostrations to He who while controlling as the core of beings, veils Himself with maya Om udam-baraya namah Prostrations to He who nourishes all creatures with appropriate food Om ashvat-thaaya namah Prostrations to He who is the perennial ëtree of lifeí under the shade of which creatures come and go in an unending cycle of fleeting joys and sorrows Om chaanuraan dhrani shudhanaya namah Prostrations to He who is the slayer of the wrestler Chanura 825 Om sahsra archise namah 292 The Cosmic Connection

Prostrations to He who in his effulgence has a thousand rays Om sapta-jiv-hyaaya namah Prostrations to He who expresses himself with seven tongues of flame [consciousness beaming through seven apertures in the face [two each of eyes, ears, nostrils and mouth] Om sapta edaase namah Prostrations to He who is the very effulgence of the seven flames Om sapta-vaahanaya namah Prostrations to He who is the chariot drawn by seven horses [seven days of the week] Om amurtaye namah Prostrations to He who is formless Om anaghaaya namah Prostrations to He who is sinless and sorrowless Om achintyaya namah Prostrations to He who cannot be comprehended by mind and intellect Om bhayakrite namah Prostrations to He who is terror to the evil-minded Om bhaya-naashanaya namah Prostrations to He who destroys all fear Om anuhve namah Prostrations to He who is subtlest of the subtle Om brihate namah Prostrations to He who is greater than the greatest Om krishaaya namah Prostrations to He who is subtle and delicate [as consciousness] Om stulaaya namah Prostrations to He who is grosser than the grossest [as universe or viraat] Om gunabhrite namah Prostrations to He who sustains the gunas or properties [perishable, changeable, finite] Om nirgunaya namah Prostrations to He who is changeless and illumines properties Om mahaane namah Prostrations to He who is not conditioned by the five elements Om adhritaya namah Prostrations to He who is not supported by anything or anyone but he supports all Om svadhritaya namah Vishnu Puja 293

Prostrations to He who is supported by nothing but his own glory Om svaas-yaya namah Prostrations to He who has an effulgent face Om praagvam-shaya namah Prostrations to He who has the most ancient ancestry Om vamsha-vardhanaya namah Prostrations to He who multiplies his family [universe of things and beings] of descendents Om bhaara-bhrite namah Prostrations to He who carries the load of the universe Om kathi-taaya namah Prostrations to He who is glorified in the Vedas Om yogine namah Prostrations to He who is realised through Yoga Om yogishaaya namah 850 Prostrations to He who is the king of yogis or he who realises the self becomes the self Om sarva-kaamadaya namah Prostrations to He who fulfills all desires of devotees Om ashramaya namah Prostrations to He who is sequestered haven of all tossed about by the storms of life Om shramanaya namah Prostrations to He who persecutes those who are driven by self-gratifications Om kshaamaya namah Prostrations to He who destroys everything in the final deluge Om suparnaya namah Prostrations to He who is the golden leaf of the ashvatha tree whose leaves are the Vedas Om vayu-vaahanaya namah Prostrations to He who is the mover of winds Om dhanur-dharaaya namah Prostrations to He who is the wielder of the great bow of Rama Om dhanur-vedaya namah Prostrations to He who declared the science of archery or Om meditation Om dandaya namah Prostrations to He who punishes the wicked Om damayitre namah Prostrations to He who cultivates and regulates life in the universe 294 The Cosmic Connection

Om damaaya namah Prostrations to He who is the final experience of beatitude after worldly punishments Om apraajitaaya namah Prostrations to He who cannot be defeated and the self asserts itself as spiritual values Om sarva-sahaya namah Prostrations to He who carries the whole universe Om aniyantre namah Prostrations to He who has none above to control him Om aniya-maya namah Prostrations to He who is not under the laws of anyone Om ayamaya namah Prostrations to He who knows no death Om sattva-vate namah Prostrations to He who is full of exploits of courage Om saatvi-kaya namah Prostrations to He who is full of sattvic qualities Om satyaya namah Prostrations to He who is truth Om satya-dharma-paraya-naya namah Prostrations to He who is the very abode of truth and righteousness Om abhi-praayaya namah Prostrations to He who faces all seekers marching to the infinite Om priyaar-haya namah Prostrations to He who desreves our love Om arhaaya namah Prostrations to He who deserves to be worshipped Om priya-krite namah Prostrations to He who is ever obliged to fulfill our wishes Om priti-vardhanaaya namah 875 Prostrations to He who initiates drunken joy from the deep love for Narayana Om vihaayasa gataye namah Prostrations to He who travels in space and having the nature of the sun Om jyotishe namah Prostrations to He who effulgent with His own light Om suruchaya namah Prostrations to He who is auspicious with his own glory Om huta-bhuje namah Vishnu Puja 295

Prostrations to He who receives all offerings into the sacred fire and enjoys them Om vibhave namah Prostrations to He who is omnipresent and all-pervading Om ravaye namah Prostrations to He who absorbs the vapours from everything that dries in the universe Om virochanaya namah Prostrations to He who shines in different forms Om suryaya namah Prostrations to He who is the one source from which all is born Om savitre namah Prostrations to He who brings from himself the world of things and beings Om ravi-lochanaya namah Prostrations to He whose eyes are the sun Om anantaya namah Prostrations to He who is not conditioned by time and space Om huta-bhuje namah Prostrations to He who accepts all things offered with devotion into the ire as oblation Om bhoktre namah Prostrations to He who enjoys the world of objects, emotions and thoughts through the equipments of body, mind and intellect which He created Himself Om sukhadaya namah Prostrations to He who gives the final experience of eternal bliss Om naika-jaaya namah Prostrations to He who has been born many times Om agrajaaya namah Prostrations to He who is the first primordial cause Om anirvin-naaya namah Prostrations to He who feels no disappontments Om sadaa-marshine namah Prostrations to He who forever forgives the trespasses of devotees Om loka-adishtaa-naaya namah Prostrations to He who is the substratum of the entire universe Om ad-bhutaya namah Prostrations to He who is the wonder of wonders Om sanaatey namah Prostrations to He who is the beginningless and endless factor unconditioned 296 The Cosmic Connection

by Time Om sanaatana-tamaya namah Prostrations to He who is the most ancient from which first springs Intellect [and first experience] and then the concept of time. Om kapilaaya namah Prostrations to He who manifested as the sage Kapila Om kapaye namah Prostrations to He who drinks water through the sunís rays Om apyayaaya namah 900 Prostrations to He in whom the universe merges during the great deluge [as total vasanas in the causal body of the universe is maya; the supreme self expressing as experiences through maya is Ishwara} Om svasti-daya namah Prostrations to He who gives fulfillment to spiritual seekers Om svasti-krite namah Prostrations to He who brings all auspiciousness Om svastine namah Prostrations to He who is the source of auspiciousness Om svasti-bhuje namah Prostrations to He who constantly lives in a perpetual auspiciousness Om svasti-dakshinaya namah Prostrations to He who is constantly engaged in auspiciousness Om aroudhraaya namah Prostrations to He who has none of the negative tendencies Om kundaline namah Prostrations to He who wears the famous earring ëmakara-kundalaí signifying control over the mystic power of the kundali [serpent] or mind, which must be silenced to reach awareness. Om chakrine namah Prostrations to He who is wears his discus Sudarshana for divine vision Om vikramine namah Prostrations to He who is travels in space on the white necked eagle Om urjita-shaas-naya namah Prostrations to He who commands and administers with his hand Om shabdaa tigaaya namah Prostrations to He who transcends all words Om -sahaya namah Prostrations to He who allows himself to be invoked by vedic declaration Om shishiraya namah Vishnu Puja 297

Prostrations to He who is the cool arbour of winter away from the scorching samsara Om sharvari-karaya namah Prostrations to He who is creates darkness for those ignorant of Narayana Om akruraaya namah Prostrations to He who is never angry Om peshalaya namah Prostrations to He who is extremely soft from infinite kindness and mercy Om dakshaya namah Prostrations to He who is completely attentive Om dakshinaya namah Prostrations to He who is most liberal Om kshaminaam varaya namah Prostrations to He who has the greatest amount of patience Om vidvat tamaya namah Prostrations to He who has the greatest wisdom Om veeta-bhayaya namah Prostrations to He who has lost all fears Om punya--kirtanaya namah Prostrations to He whose glory when sung or heard grows in the bosom of the devotee Om udhaara naya namah Prostrations to He who lifts one from the ocean of change Om dush--hane namah Prostrations to He whose mind is freed of vasanas when taking the name of Narayana Om punyaya namah Prostrations to He who is supremely pure 925 Om duha-svapna-naashnaya namah Prostrations to He who destroys bad dreams Om virahaya namah Prostrations to He who ends passage from womb to womb Om raksha naya namah Prostrations to He who protects the universe Om santaya namah Prostrations to He who expresses himself amongst good people Om jiva-naya namah Prostrations to He who is the lifespark of all creatures Om parya-vastitaaya namah 298 The Cosmic Connection

Prostrations to He who dwells in all places and in all creatures Om ananta-rupaya namah Prostrations to He who has infinite forms Om ananta-shriye namah Prostrations to He who is full of infinite glories Om jeeta-manyuve namah Prostrations to He who has conquered anger Om bhayaa-pahaaya namah Prostrations to He who destroys fears of samsaric life Om chatura-srahaya namah Prostrations to He who deals squarely with all Om gabhir-atmane namaha Prostrations to He who is in his nature too deep to be fathomed Om vidhi-shaya namah Prostrations to He who is unique in his giving Om vyadhi-shaaya namah Prostrations to He who is unique in his commanding power Om dishaaya namah Prostrations to He who advises and gives knowledge Om anaadiye namah Prostrations to He who is the first cause Om bhur-bhuvaya namah Prostrations to He who is the very support of the earth Om laksh-myai namah Prostrations to He who is the wealth and glory of the earth Om suviraya namah Prostrations to He who moves divinely in many glorious ways Om ruchir-angadaya namah Prostrations to He who wears resplendent shoulder Om jananaaya namah Prostrations to He who delivers all living creatures Om jan-janmaa-diye namah Prostrations to He who is the sole cause for birth for all living creatures in the universe Om bhimaaya namah Prostrations to He whose form is frightening to sinners Om bhim-paraa-kramaaya namah Prostrations to He whose prowess is fearful to enemies Om aadhaar-nila-ya namah Vishnu Puja 299

Prostrations to He who is the fundamental sustainer 950 Om adhaatre namah Prostrations to He above whom there is no other to command Om pushpa-haashaya namah Prostrations to He who shines like an open flower Om prajaa-garaaya namah Prostrations to He who knows no sleep Om urdha-vagaaya namah Prostrations to He who is on top of it all Om sat-pathaa-chaaraya namah Prostrations to He who walks the path of truth Om pranadaya namah Prostrations to He who gives prana to all Om pranavaya namah Prostrations to He who is Omkar Om panaaya namah Prostrations to He who is the supreme manager of the universe Om pramaanaaya namah Prostrations to He whose very form is the Vedas Om prana-nilayaaya namah Prostrations to He in whom all pranas are established Om prana-bhrite namah Prostrations to He who rules over the pranas Om prana-jiva-naya namah Prostrations to He who maintains the life breath in all creatures Om tatvaaya namah Prostrations to He who is the essential essence of reality Om tatva-vidhe namah Prostrations to He who has realised fully the reality Om ek-atmane namah Prostrations to He who is the over-soul expressing in individualities Om janma-mrityu-jara atigaaya namah Prostrations to He who knows no change in Himself Om bhur bhuvas svas tarave namah Prostrations to He who is the sap of the tree-of-life existing in our world, both higher-world, and lower-world Om taaraya namah Prostrations to He who is the boat-man to help man to cross over Om savitre namah 300 The Cosmic Connection

Prostrations to He who is father of all Om prapitaam-haaya namah Prostrations to He who is the father of father-of-beings Om yagnaaya namah Prostrations to He whose very nature is yagna Om yagna-pataye namah Prostrations to He who is lord of yagnas Om yajvaane namah Prostrations to He who performs yagas according vedic prescriptions Om yagna angaya namah Prostrations to He whose limbs are the things employed in yagnas Om yagna-vaahanaya namah Prostrations to He who fulfills yagnas according to vedic prescriptions 975 Om yagna-bhrite namah Prostrations to He who is ruler of yagnas Om yagya-krite namah Prostrations to He who performs yagnas Om yagyine namah Prostrations to He who is the constant enjoyer of perpetual yagnas Om yagya-bhuje namah Prostrations to He who is all that is offered into the yagna fire Om yagya-saadhanaya namah Prostrations to He who fulfills yagnas Om yagyaanta-krite namah Prostrations to He who performs the concluding act in yagnas Om yagya-guhyaaya namah Prostrations to He who is Narayana to be realised in all yagnas Om anaaya namah Prostrations to He who is the food consumed by the senses Om anaadhaaya namah Prostrations to He who is one that eats the food Om atma-yonaye namah Prostrations to He who is Himself the material unborn cause for the universe Om svayam-jaataaya namah Prostrations to He who is no other cause of the universe Om vaikhaa-naaya namah Prostrations to He who tore the earth to reach Om saama-gaaya-naya namah Prostrations to He who sings the Saama Veda Vishnu Puja 301

Om devaki-nandanaya namah Prostrations to He who is born to Devaki as Krishna Om srashte namah Prostrations to He who creates Om kshiti-shaaya namah Prostrations to He who is the Lord of the earth Om paapa-naasha-naya namah Prostrations to He who destroys all vasanas on meditating upon him Om shamkha-bhrute namah Prostrations to He who has the divine conch ëPaanchajanyaí Om nanda-kine namah Prostrations to He who holds and wields the sword called Nandaka [that which brings blissí] Om chakrine namah Prostrations to He who carries the disc Sudarshana [that which gives auspicious vision] Om saarnga-dhanvaane namah Prostrations to He who aims unerringly with his Bow at the ego, which is of the senses Om gadaa-dharaya namah Prostrations to He who holds his divine club or mace, which represents the intellect and is capable of generating and spreading beauty and joy Om rataanga-paanaye namah Prostrations to He who has the wheel of the chariot as his weapon Om aksho-bhyaya namah Prostrations to He who cannot be exasperated by any act however blasphemous Om sarva-praharnaa-yudhaaya namah Prostrations to He who has implements against every kind of assault 1000 Om sarva-praharnaa-yudhaaya Om namah iti Prostrations to He who has implements against every kind of assault Om sri krishnaya para brahmane namah 302 The Cosmic Connection

20. Guru-paduka-Stotram

Ananta-samasar-samudra-tara naukaa-yitaa-bhyaam guru-bhaktida-bhyam samrajyada-pujanaa-bhyaam namo namah sri guru-paduka-bhyam 1 Prostrations again and again to the , which are the boats to cross the shoreless and endless ocean of samasara, the cycles of birth and death, which bestow devotion for the guru, and which grant dispassion and devotion.

Kavitva-vaaraa-shini-shankaraa-bhyaam daurbhagya-daavaam-buda-maalika- bhyam Duri-krtaa-namravi-pattati-bhyaam namoh namah sri guru-paduka-bhyam 2 Prostrations again and again to the guruís padukas, which not only give poetic inspiration like when the moon is shining on the ocean, but are also like rainclouds to blot out the forest fires of misfortunes, and are able to ward off calamities in the lives of those who bow to the padukas.

Nataa yayoh shri-patitaam samiyuh kadaa-cid-apyasu dari-dravaryaah Mukash- vaachas-patitaam hi taabhyaam namo namah sri guru-paduka-bhyam 3 Those who prostrate to the padukas even infrequently attain Narayana and his consort Lakshmi immediately and without undue delay, even if burdened with poverty. Even the dumb become endowed with untold real wealth and knowledge.

Naali-kani-kaasha-shapad-aahrtaa-bhyaam, nana-vimohaa-dini-vaartikaa-bhyam Namaj-janaabhi-stata-ti pradaa-bhyam, namo namah sri guru-paduka-bhyam 4 When they carry the padukas, which symbolize the lotus feet of the guru, they remove all human delusions. Just bowing to the padukas fulfills all their desires. Prostrations to the Guru padukas.

Nripali-mauli-vraja-ratna-kaantisarid-viraajaj-jhasanakyaa-bhyam Nrpat-vadaa-bhyam nata-loka-pankteh, namo namah sri guru-paduka-bhyam 5 Streams of brilliant radiance of gems bow at the feet of the Guru. The padukas are like fish revelling in the stream. The padukas grant kingship to rows of people who prostrate before them.

302 Guru-paduka-stotram 303

Pap-aandha-karark-aparam-paraa-bhyam taapa-trayaahi-indra-khagesh-varaa bhyam Jaadyaab-dhisham shosana-vaada-vaabhyam namoh namah sri guru- paduka-bhyam 6 They are like a whole dynasty of suns able to dispel the dense darkness of sins. They are like the eagle Garuda to the serpents or sorrows of the three worlds [adhyatmika, adhibhowtika, adhidaivika]. They [the padukas] are the terrific fires of the great dissolution or pralaya, which dries the ocean of insentience or dullness.

Shamaa-dishat-kaprada-vaibhaava-bhyam, samaadhi-dana-avrata dikshita-bhyam Rama-dhavaang-hri-sthira-bhakti-daa-bhyam, namo namah sri guru paduka bhyam 7 These padukas have the glorious powers to grant the six great virtues [sama, dama, , , shradha, samadhana] of control of the mind, the senses, withdrawal from purposeless activities and indulgences, endurance with forebearance, faith and equipoise. They have vowed to bestow samadhi to those with steadfast devotion to the lotus feet of Narayana and his consort Lakshmi.

Svaar-aparaa-naama-khile-stadaa-bhyam, svaha-sahayak-sadhur-andharaa-bhyam Svantach-chabhava-prada-pujanaa-bhyam, namo namah sri guru paduka bhyam 8 These hallowed padukas fulfill all desires of those who worship them. They are the experts that lead the seeker through the third eye and into knowledge. They cause awakening of the inner self and are therefore most worshipful.

Kama-disarpa-vraja-garuda-bhyam, -vairagya nidhi pradaa-bhyaam Bodha-pradaa-bhyam druta-mokshadaa-bhyam, namo namah sri guru padukabhyam 9 They are the Garudas to the serpents of lust, anger, greed, delusion, pride and jealousy. They grant the treasure of discrimination and dispassion with supreme knowledge and firm liberation. Prostrations to such padukas. 304 The Cosmic Connection

21. Durga Sukhtam

From Mahanarayan Upanishad by Swami Vimalananda

Om Jaat-vedase soonavaam somam araati yatoh nidahaati vedah Sa nah parsha dati durgaani vishva naaveva sindhum duritaaty agnihi May we offer oblations of soma to Jatavedas. May the all knowing One destroy what is unfriendly to us. May He, the divine fire that leads all, protect us by taking us across all perils even as a captain takes the boat across the sea. May He save us from all wrongs. Japa prescribed to ward off difficulties in life and while on a spiritual path. Jatadeva is the supreme lord defined as the Lord Fire worshipped in vedic rituals who is worshipped in soma sacrifices with the soma juice. The mantra pleads for help to overcome internal and external obstacles in order to reach a higher level of existence and attain the goal of self-realisation.

Taam agnivaraam tapasaa jvalantim vairo-chanim karmaphaleshu jushtaam Durgaam devigum sharana-maham prapadye sutar-asi tarase namah I take refuge in Durga [the inaccessible creative energy of fire - the mother who has the ability to remove difficulties] who has a fiery lustre and is radiant with Her ardency, who is the power belonging to the Supreme Brahman who has manifest Himself as many, who is the power in all actions and in fruits of all actions. O Goddess! who is skilled in saving mortals, take us across the ocean of difficulties while on spiritual journeys. Our prostrations to You. Durga is the Supreme saviour of man in the problems of mundane living as well as for bestowing the highest bliss while meditating upon Her as Agni, the divine mother of the universe.

Agney twam paaraya navyo asmaan svasti bhirati durgaani vishvah Pushcha prithvi bahulaa na urvi bhavaa tokaaya tanyaaya shamyoho Oh Fire! You are worthy of praise. Show us ways to take us beyond difficulties. May our home and homeland remain ample and able to nourish our children with prosperity and illumination about the purpose of human existence.

Vishvani no durgaha jaata vedaha sindhoom na naavaa duritaa tiparshi Agney van manasaa grinano smaakam bodhyavita tanu naam O Jatadeva of Vedas You who are the destroyer of all sins and takes man beyond

304 Durga Sukhtam 305 all problems, take us across the sea of human existence. Oh Fire, guard our body and take it to safety while recognising that we need it to perform actions of devotion in search of You. Be You like the sage Atri who showed universal compassion when he prayed for wholeness and peace for all creatures of the universe.

Pritanaa-jitagum saha maanam-ugram agni-gum huvema parmaat sada-sthaat Sa naha parshadati durgani vishva kshyamad-devo ati duritaatyagnihi At the highest assembly of all gods, we invoke the Highest, the Fire-god who is the leader of them all; who is creator and destroyer of all hosts of enemies. May He the supreme Brahman take us across the ocean of difficulties and wrong tendenciesin all of which are perishable. O Agni! may You protect us.

Pratnoshi kami dayo adhvareshu sanaach-cha hotaa navyash-cha satsi Svaan chaagne tanuvam pipraya svaa sambhyam cha saubhaga maaya jasva O Fire! You are lauded in sacrifices that have increased every mortalís real happiness. You have existed as One in the sacrificers, both recent and of ancient, as well as in the places of sacrifice. O Fire! make us all happy to realise that we are all Your very self. Grant us the values of life that will elevate us to more divine states. The universe is represented as the body of God [Fire] where individual souls reside. While entreating God to elevate them into a divine state, the practitioner assumes that the Fire is God and oblations into the Fire are offerings into the body of God.

Gobhir-jushta-mayujo nishiktam tavendra vishnor ranu samcharema Naakasya prishtambhi sam vasaano vaishnavim loka iha maadha yantaam O Lord! You are unconnected to sin or sorrow, but pervade and are inherent in all sacrifices, I seek an abundance of good fortune so that I am able to honour and serve You without a break. May the gods in heavens be pleased with me while I practice love and devotion to Vishnu. May they all grant me this wish.

Om katyaaya-naaya vit mahe kanyakumari dhi mahi Tano durgi pracho dayaat Om shanti shanti shantih May the deities grant me my wishes. May Earth grant us food ñ for that I make oblation to Fire and Earth. Hail. May the deities of Space and Air grant me food. For that I make oblations to Fire, Space and Air [Atmosphere]. Hail. May the deities of sun and heaven grant me food. For that I make oblations to sun and Heaven. Hail. May the deities of Earth, Atmosphere and Heaven grant me food. For that I make oblation to the moon and the Quarters. Hail. 306 The Cosmic Connection

22. Medha Sukhtam

Om medhadevi jusha maanaa na aagaad vishwachi bhadra-sumanasya maanaa Tvayaa jushtaa nuda maanaa duruktaan brihat vadema vidhathe subiraha May the all-pervasive goddess of intellect who, if She is delighted and favourably inclined towards us, please pay us a visit. O goddess! we who have previously indulged in injurious chatter, have now become enlightened enough to speak of Your truth, through Your grace.

Tvayaa jushta rishir bhavati devi tvayaa brahma gatashri rutha tavayaa Tvayaa jushta sh chitram bhindate vasu saano jushaswa dravino na medhe Oh goddess of intellect, by Your grace, one becomes a seer, and and a knower of Brahman. Favoured by Your grace, man attains real wealth and untold riches. As such, O Goddess of Intellect, take delight in us and confer upon us true wealth.

Medhaam ma indro dadhatu medhaam devi sarasvati Medhaam me ashwina vu bhaavaa dhattam pushkara shrajaa May Indra grant me intelligence and may the two ashwins who are garlanded with lotuses engender in me intelligence.

Apsarasu cha yaa medha gandharveshu cha yan manaha Daivim medha sarasvati samaam medha surabhir jushataangum svaha May that intelligence favour me ñ that intelligence, which is possessed by celestial minstrels, and that expressed through vedic lore and that intelligence, which spreads like fragrance.

Amaam medha surabhir vishvarupa hiranya varanam jagati jagam-mya Urjasvati payasa pinvamaana saamaam medhaa supratika jushantaam May the Goddess of intelligence come to me with a happy face favouring me. That Goddess of intelligence who is pervasive like fragrance, who is capable of examining all objects, who possesses golden letters shaped in the syllables of the Vedas, who is constantly present, who is fit to be resorted to by seekers of real values of life and strength to nourish oneself with milk and wealth.

306 Medha Sukhtam 307

Mayim medhaam mayi prajaam maya agnistejo dadhaatu mayi medhaam mayi prajaam Mayindra indriyam dadaatu mayi medham mayi prajaam mayi suryo bhraajo dadhaatu May Agni give me intelligence, continuity of progeny and splendour born of vedic study. May Surya also give me intelligence, continuity of progeny and expertise to strike fear in the hearts of enemies.

Om hansa hansaya vidmahe pramaa hangsaya dhi mahi Tanno hansaha pracho dayaat Om shanti shanti shantihi May the highest Discriminator [the Lord] impel me to meditate on discrimnation like the swan. 308 The Cosmic Connection

23. Meditation upon the Creator

This mantra is prescribed for japa by one wishing constant remembrance of God after completing the study of the Vedas. It is addressed to the Creator.

Yash chandasaam rishabho vishvarupash chandobhyash chandagum syaavivesham Satahgum shikayaha provacho-panish dindro jyeshta indriyaaya trishibhyo namo devebhyaha svadha pitribhyo bhurbhuvasvashchanda om The Supreme Being, represented here by Indra, who embodies the whole Unverse as the knowledge of the Vedas, in which are collections of mantras and other meters representing the Supreme, is being referred to. The gayatri is the first causal link with the knowledge of the Vedas taught in the Upanishads by sages, as a result of contemplation and taught to those seeking the sacred wisdom, in order to strengthen the power of their knowledge. The pranava Om is the essence of the Vedas, which ensouls the entire universe. I salute the gods for removing obstacles in my search for Illumination. For the same reasons, I prostrate to the triple regions of Bhuh, Bhuvah and Suvah and the entire Vedas represented by Om.

Namo brahmane dhaaranam me astavniraakarnam dhaaraithaa Bhuyaasam karniyoho shrutam maa chyodam mamaa-mushya om My salutations to the Supreme. May I concentrate my thoughts upon Him with whom I wish to merge. May I become One by practicing concentration without distraction. I have sensed all the pleasures of my senses. O my senses! do not fail me now. Settle yourselves in Brahman with whom I wish to unite through the meditation of Om.

Ridam tapah, satyam tapaha, shruta tapaha, shaantam tapo, damas tapaha, shamas tapaha, daanam tapo, yagyam tapo, bhur-bhuvasvar brahme tadu paas vaith tapaha Om. Truth about the laws of the universe is austerity, truth itself is austerity, listening to Vedas is austerity, peace is austerity, control of senses is austerity, control of the mind is austerity , charity is austerity, oblations is austerity, the three heavens is worship of Brahman and that too is austerity. Om.

308 24. Sri Hanumah Chalisa

To achieve any objectives in life or in times of distress chant, the Chalisa with dedication and devotion. Knowing myself to be ignorant, say: ìI urge you, O Hanuman, the son of Pavan, bestow upon me strength, knowledge and wisdom. At the same time, take away my miseries and character blemishes.î

Jai Hanuman gyan guna sagar, jai kapis tihun lok ujaagar Victory to you Hanuman who is an ocean of wisdom and virtue - victory to the lord of monkeys who is well known in all the three worlds.

Ramdoot atulit bal dhaama, anjani putra pavan-suta naama You, who is the messenger of Rama and are the repository of untold strength, are also known as Anjaniputra and Pavanputra.

Mahabir bikram bajarangi kumati nivaar sumati ke sangi Mighty, powerful and as strong as lighteneing, O Mahavir who has profound wisdom, dispel my ignorant and dark thoughts.

Kanchan baran biraaj subesa, kanan kundal kunchit kesaa O you golden hued Hanuman, you are so beautiful with those ear-studs and your curly hair.

Haath bajra aur dhvaja biraje, kandhe moonj janeu saajai You hold in one hand the mace of lightning and in the other you have the flag. The sacred thread made of Munja grass adorns your shoulder.

Shankar suvan kesari nandan, tej pratap maha jag bandan You who are the 12th reincarnation of Shankar and also the son of Kesari, your glory and intellectual lustre are objects of praise in the universe.

Vidyavaan guni ati chatur, ram kaj karibe ko atur You who are the repository of all knowledge, wisdom and virtue ñ you are always eager and ready to serve Lord Rama.

309 310 The Cosmic Connection

Prabhu caritra sunibe ko rasiya, Ram Lakhan Sita man basiya In your heart reside Ram, Lakshman and Sita, yet you remain immersed listening to hymns of the Lord.

Sukshma roop dhari siyahin dikhawa, bikat roop dhari lank jarawa You presented yourself to Mother Sita in your small humble form and yet assumed a gigantic demonaic size to destroy by burning the evil city of Lanka.

Bhim roop dhari asur sanhare, Ramchandra ke kaaj savare While assuming a colossal size, you killed the demons and fulfilled Ramaís mission for the Lordís incarnation.

Laaye sajivan lakhan jiyaye, Sri Raghuvir harshi ur laye You revived Lakshman from the dead with the nectarine herb sanjivani ñ Rama embraced you in profound joy.

Raghupati kinhi bahut badaii, tum mama priya Bharat sam bhai Ram then praised you for your efforts in bringing the sanjivani from the Himalayas [Meru] and declared that you were as dear to him as his own brother Bharat

Sahasa badan tumhro jas gavein, asa kahi sripati kanth lagaavein The Lakshmiís lord ñ Rama, while embracing you said that even Sheshanag [incarnated as Lakshman] sings your glory.

Sankadik brahmadi munisaa, narad sarad sahit ahisaa Also praising your efforts are the saint Sanaka, Brahma the Creator, other gods and also Sharada, the goddess of knowledge.

Jam kuber digpal jahan te, kabi kobid kahin sake kanha te Never mind the praises showered by poets and seers, even Yama - the god of death, Kuber - the god of wealth, and Digpal - the god of directions have not stopped praising your efforts.

Tum upkar sugrivahi keenha, ram milai rajpad deenha With Ramaís blessings, you helped Sugriva regain the throne from his wicked brother Bali.

Tumharo mantra vibhishan maana, lankeshwar bhaye sab jag jaana History knows that Vibhishana, Ravanaís brother, accepted your counsel to Sri Hanumah Chalisa 311 fight evil and became King of Lanka after the brotherís death.

Jug sahastra jojan par bhaanu, leelyo taahi madhur phal jaanu Your might is so great that as a child you swallowed the sun, some million miles away, thinking it was some luscious fruit.

Prabhu mudrika mali mukha maaheen, jaladhi langhi gaye acharaj naheen You crossed the mighty ocean across to Lanka with the Lordís ring in your mouth

Durgam kaaj jagat ke jete, sugam anugrah tumhre te te You have the Lordís grace and have been able to overcome all types of difficulties and impediments.

Ram duware tum rakhwara, hoat na aagya bin paisare As sentinel of Lord Ramaís abode, you alone can allow persons to enter into His presence.

Sab sukh lahen tumari sarna, tum rakshak kaahu do darnaa While under your protection, man can enjoy both your protection and happiness

Aapan tej samharo aapei, tinu lok hank te kanpai You are so mighty that even the three worlds tremble when you roar.

Bhoot pisaach nikat nahi avei, mahbir jab naam sunavei You who are yourself Lord Mahaveer, no evil spirits would dare come near your devotees.

Nassei rog hare sab peera, japat norantar hanumat beera Oh Hanuman, by chanting your name, one is cured of diseases and afflictions.

Sankat te hanuman chhudavei, man kram bachan dhyan jo lavei Anyone who keeps Hanuman in his heart, word, and deeds, he is sure to be free of all misfortunes.

Sab par Ram tapasvee raja, tinke kaj sakal tum saja Despite the rigourous demands made of you by the ascetic Lord Rama, you were able to accomplish all his missions. 312 The Cosmic Connection

Aur manorath jo koi lave, soi amit jivan phal pave It is true that anyone, who approaches you with desires or misfortunes, is sure to free himself of these demands.

Charo jug partap tumhara, hai parsiddha jagat ujiyara Your glory has been acclaimed through the four yugas[satyug, dwapar, treta, kalyug] and your radiance permeates the universe.

Sadhu sant ke tum rakhvare, asur nikandan Ram dulare O protector of sages and saints, you destroy evil and therefore are the beloved of Rama.

Ashta siddhi nau nidhi ke data, asa bar din jaanki mata You have been blessed by Mother Sita and are therefore able to grant the eight siddhis and nine nidhis.

Ram rasayan tumhare pasa, sada raho raghupati ke dasa You, who is the sweetness of Ram, will always remain in the service of the Raghu dynasty of Rama.

Tumhre ramko pavei, janam janam ke dukh bisaravei Seekers can reach Rama Himself by canting your name and become free of human afflictions of ignorance.

Anta kal raghubir purjai, jahan janma hari bhakt kahai Such a seeker then is able to enter Ramaís heaven in Vaikunt and will remain His devotee birth after birth.

Aur devata chitt na dharai, hanumat sei sarva sukh karai Other gods may not be as generous as you are, but we know that those who serve and remember you enjoy real happiness.

Sankat kate mitey sab peera, jo sumirei hanumat balbeera The mighty Hanuman removes all problems of existence and is sure to be helped when the great Hanuman is invoked.

Jai jai jai hanuman gosain, kripa karahu gurudev ki nain Salutations to the mighty and compassionate Hanuman, who is also my Supreme Teacher.

312 Sri Hanumah Chalisa 313

Jo sat bar path kar koi, chtai bandi maha sukh hoi Whosoever chants this chalisa one hundred times, is liberated from earthly bondage and enjoys supreme bliss.

Jo yah padhe Hanuman chalisa, hoi siddhi saki gowrisa He who reads these forty verses, Shiva is witness to the freedom from earthly problems due to ignorance.

Tulsidas sada hari chera, keeje hriday maha dera , the author of these verses says he is the eternal devotee of Sri Rama ñ therefore please live in my heart now and forever.

Pavan tanay sankat haran, mangal murati roop, Ram Lakhan Sita sahit hriday basahu sur bhup O Hanuman, who is the son of Pavana, a manifestation and embodimaent of blessings, please reside in me with Ram, Lakshman and Sita.

Mangal moorati marut nandan sakal mangal amangal mool nikandan Pawan tayasantan hitakari hridaya birajaat awadh bihari Maato pita guru ganapati saaradh shivaa sameth shambhu suk naaradh Charan kamal bindhau sab kaahu jai jai jai hanuman goosai kripa karahu gurudev ki nai Bandhan ram lakhan vaidehi yeh tulsi ke param sanehi Siyavar ram chandraki jai You are my mother and father. You are my Friend and the Love of my heart. You are Knowledge and its Light and Fortune; You are my All. Oh, soul of my heart! 314 The Cosmic Connection

25. He Mere Vatan ke Logon

He mere vatan ke logon, Toom khub lagaa lo naaraa Yaha shoobh din hai ham sabkaa, Laharaa-lo tiranga pyaaraa Par mat bhulo seema par, Viron ne hai praan ganvaa-e Kucha yaad unhai bhi kar lo, Jo loat ke ghar naa aaye He mere vatan ke logon, Zaraa aankhme bharlo paani

Jo shaheed huai hain unaki, Zaraa yaad karo kurabaani Toom bhoola naa jaana unko, Isliye suno ye kahani Jo shaheed huai hain unaki, Zaraa yaad karo kurabaani Jab ghaayal huaa himalaya, Khatare me padi aazaadi Jab tak thi saans laey vo, Fir apani laash bichaadi Sangeet pe dhar kar maathaa, So gaye amar balidaani Jo shaheed huai hain unaki Zaraa yaad karo kurabani

Jab desh me thi , Vo khel rahe thai Jab ham baite thei gharon me, Vo jhel rahe thei goli Ye dhanya jawan vo apane, Thi anth vo unaki jawani

314 He Mere Vatanke Logon 315

Jo shaheed huai hain unaki Zaraa yaad karo kurbaani Koi sikh koi jaat maraatha, Koi sikh koi jaat maraatha, Koi gurkha koi madarasi, Koi gurkha koi madarasi, Sarhad par maranevala, Har vir thaa bharatvaasi Jo khoon giraa paravat par, vo khoon thaa hindustani Jo shaheed huai hain unaki Zaraa yaad karo kurbaani

Thi khoona se latpat kaya, Fir bhi bandook utaakar Das dasko ek ne maaraa, Fir gir gaye hosha gavaankar Jab anth samay aayaa to, Kaha gaye ki ab marate hain Khoosh rahanaa deshke pyaaron, Ab ham to safar karate hain Kyaa log the vo divaane, kyaa log the vo abhimani Jo shaheed huey hain unaki zaraa yaad karo kurbaani Toom bhool na jao unako, is-liye kahi ye kahaani Jo shaheed huai hain unaki zaraa yaad karo kurbaani 26. Hindu Hindu Ek Rahe

Hindu hindu ek rahe, bhed bhaav se nahin sahe Sangharshose dukhee jagat ko, manavataki de Hindu hindu ek rahe Ek brama kuch aur nahin, harihar durga maat vahi Dev deviyan roop usika, desh kaal anusaar sahee Sab pantho ka maan kare, sab grantho se gyaan gahe Sad guruo kee seekh samajkar, jeevanko jeenaa seekhe Hindu hindu ek rahe. . Jo bhai bhatake bicchade, haath pakd le saath chale Bhojan kappada gharki savidha, shiksha sabko sulabh rahe Unch neech lav lesh na ho, chhuaa chhut avashesh na ho Ek lahu sabki nasnasmen, apanepan ki reet gahe Hindu hindu ek rahe.

Dharma prema amrit peeye, geeta ganga gau pooje Ved vihit jeevan rachanaa ho, ram krshna shiv bhakti kari Dharma sanaatan anugaamee, budham sharanam gachchak Ar hanto ko naman kare, nit baahe guru akaal kahe Hindu hindu ek rahe.

316 27. Vande Mataram

Vande Mataram, Vande Mataram Sujalam sufalam malayaja shitalam Sashyashyamalam mataram Vande mataram Shubharajyotsana pulakita yaminim Phullakusumita dhruma-dala-shobhinim Suhasinim sumadhura bhasinim Sukhadam varadam mataram Vande mataram

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