Navaratri 1996
Speeches of HH Sri Ganapathy Sachchidananda Swamiji during Navaratri - October 12-16, 1996
Mahalaya Amavaasya on October 12
Om Gam Ganapathi Sachidanandaya Vidmahe
Lam Karunyamurthaye Dheemahi
Draam Thannah Sri Guru Prachodayaath !!
Before the performance of a Yagna, performance of a special Vratha (ritual observation) called "Ritvik Varna" is in vogue, and permission is to be sought for performing this Yagna. Here, who is to take permission and from whom is the question. When a devotee gets God's Universal form (ie Vishwaroopa dashan) he finds that he is God and God is he and that he is all and all is He (God).
Why are these Yagnas performed? Normally it is for getting some desires fulfilled or fulfilling of 'purusharthas'. But for fulfilment of "Purushartha" Nishkama karma (selfless service and performing of service/yagnas etc. without having any desire for the results of such deeds). This yagna include Japa/Nama Yagna (chanting of God's names), Parayana Yagna, (recitation of holy texts/books/mantras for a stipulated/prescribed periods), Guru Seva Yagna etc. These Yagnas should basically be performed with "Nishta" , "Niyama" and "Shraddha" (i.e. dedication, devotion, strict observance of rules) and also observing "Vidhi" (i.e prescribed methods or performing in systematic manner). Vidhi is connected to Pooja/worship, and "Niyama" is connected to "Dhyana" (meditation).
The first resultant (Phala) of performing yagna is destruction of all sins committed. Secondly, all the desires get fulfilled (Sarvabhishta siddhi) and thidly it brings good/auspices to the world and every living being (Jeeva and loka kalyana).
Who controls & Supervises the yagnas? Normally , it is the "Yajamani" (one who gets it performed). Here, Yajamaani is Shiva or Vishnu. But one who has desires and selfishness cannot be called Yajamaani , in the "Ritvik Varna" method of Yagna performance.
The accomplishments (Siddhis) obtined from such performance of a Ritkvik varna yagna will not got to Yagna Dikshita alone. Normally Yajamani performs 'Ritvik varna vratham' before performing a yagna, which Sri Swamiji feels, is wrong though there is permission for such a performance. Here (i.e in Datta Peetham) since this is being done in the presence of a Sadguru (who is Guru and Vishnu Himself), it is applicable. But in other places, performance of 'ritvik varna vratham' is not applicable. But in the presence of a Sadguru, this can be performed keeping an Acharya (Brhaspathi sthanam) for conducting such yagna. Though the Acharya receives "Deekhsa" and performs Yagna, the 'Sankalpa" is done for all jointly and thereby every has participation physically in that Yagna. For the incarnation of Lord Vishnu, all the Devathas joined and prayed together for such a special incarnation of the Lord. Though the 'Rathasarathya' is taken by the Sadguru (here it means conducting of the Yagna) He doesn't say "you all perform, I am only a witness" instead He says "We all will join and participate in the yagna". That is why the 'Deeksha vastra' was given to all these people who will abide by the rules in carrying out the assigned task given to them, observing'nishta', 'niyama' and'shraddha'. And this is a part of the system/method of performing of pooja/worship by all of us from tomorrow. Sri Swamiji is also giving "Mantra deeksha' for all of us to chant from tomorrow during the worship of the Goddess Mother.
In the Ramayana story, Anasuya Mata also gives 'deeksha vastra' to Seetha telling her that she should wear them as she was performing the vratha. Likewise Kaikeyimata also gives 'deeksha vastra' to Rama,Lakshmana & Seetha when they leave for forest, the yagna/vratha being the 'Rakshasa samhara' (vanquishing of the demons) and other great tasks like 'shishta rakshane' (protecting of saintly, innocent people) protecting the yagas performed by the rishis, granting 'mukti' etc. But Anasuya Maata gives Mantra Deeksha along with Vastra Deeksha, i.e. prescribing vidhi, Dhyana and niyama whereas Kaikeyi gives only vastra deeksha as a method of worship (vidhi, ie pooja). Like Anasuya Maata, Sri Swamiji is giving us both Manthra Deeksha and Vastra Deeksha for getting equipped to fight and destroy demons in the form of Rajoguna and Thamoguna which forms the purpose of worshipping Devi from tomorrow onwards, just like the Mother Goddess fighting and killing the demons, as narrated in the Tripura Rahasya, which forms the meaning of the worship of Goddess Mother which commences from tomorrow.
Symbolically, two Vastras are to be given as a rule, representing mantra deeksha and vastra deeksha for the persons receiving deekhsa in a yagna But for a 'Yathi' (sage) only one Vastra can be given. (Sri Swamiji, being an Avadhootha and a samsari can accept two vastras as He is Ardhanareeshawara representing both Shiva and Shakti and hence He wears saree & ornaments as well as "Panche/dhoti". )
Sri Swamiji said Man, in his true nature, is 'Shanthipurusha' and 'Shanthi' is his Swabhava (nature). But people have forgetten their true nature and are suffering searching for peace by performing various deeds which they think will bring peace to them. They always question, doubt and have problems always losing peace of mind. In fact being 'Shantha" (tranquility) his true nature, a man can stay quiet for 24 hours but cannot remain in a state of anger even for one hour. Even great sage Parashurama who was known for his short-temperedness, could not remain in the state of anger for long period; he was in varying moods of anger and peace for short periods. Hence, all are suffering due to 'Asahaja siddhantha' (unnatural conceptions) like questions, problems, doubts etc. and are spoiling the natural state of peace by themselves. In fact, to attain peaceful state, one need not do anything at all. He has to stop all the efforts and practice which he thinks he is making to get peace. For example there is cold water. If you keep it on the stove and put on the switch it boils. But to leave it cold just switch off the stove. Soul is one, Moksha is one, Parabrahman is one. Stop all mental activities, questioning, doubtings, you will get peace and wonderful bliss.
Sri Swamiji has made 'Sankalpa' for smooth, peaceful worship of Devi for 9 days without any obstacles.
Sri Swamiji (indicating at his body) said His body itself is Yagna. and "Antaryaga' (internal worship) goes on all the time. But to display the same and make it visible to the devotees, this "Bahiryaga" (external worship) is being conducted. From tomorrow onwards, Devi's various forms will be worshipped.
JAI GURU DATTA
Navaratri Discourse day 1 Gowri puja on October 13
Om Gam Ganapathi Sachidanandaya Vidmahe !
Lam Karunyamurthaye Dheemahi !
Draam Thannah Sri Guru Prachodayaath !!
Sri Swamiji said that He is going to take up the story of how Mother Goddess became "Gowri".
'Thanu and Vak" (i.e.body and sound i.e.talking) are one and the same. That is if talking (i.e.giving expression verbally) is there only then one can know the state or the 'sthithi' of the body. That is why indulging in 'vichara' (studying or knowing of the subject) is essential. If one wants to keep the body sound and healthy, 'krama shikshana' (methodical/systematic training) is to be given. For giving this sort of training, 'shaareerika tapas' or physical penance is very essential. That is why worship/pooja is 'shareerika tapas' *** penance. This physical penance is done using the physical body along with the help of mind and intellect. Such type of worship is a great 'sadhana' (practice). To realise 'jeevanmukti' (i.e. liberation of the soul) shareera or the body is the sadhana or object or means for practice. This body is given by the 'prakriti' or Bhagavathi Mata to the beings. To know the 'Tattva' or the principles of 'prakriti' (Mother Nature), we have to pray Mother Prakriti and not depend on 'vikriti'. If one wants to 'jnana' Knowledge, one has to indulge in the practice of such knowledge. Swamiji Sings a bhajan
"Amba Vandanam Jagadamba Vandanam".
In India, they say there is a relationship with 'Vaikunta' (abode of Lord Vishnu) and 'Kailasa' (abode of Lord Shiva), They say this is second Vaikunta. In a way we do not require Vaikunta. Vaikunta means Guru 'Kanta' (Saduguru's talk or bodhana /upadesha i.e. preaching) itself is Vaikunta. Those who have taken refuge in a Sadguru and His preaching, that itself is the attainment of 'Vaikunta' and hence no other 'vaikunta' is needed. The other meaning of Kailasa is 'shareera' or the body; Guru shareer/body itself is Kailasa. Those who does 'Guruseva' /service to the Guru will attain 'Kailasa'. The 'manasaloka' or Brahmaloka is the 'roopa' or the form of Guru and there is no other Brahmaloka. As He is in Brahma roopa, His talk or preaching, when practiced and Service to the Sadguru is done, one will attain Brahmaloka or Satyaloka. Hence, when His Preaching is heard one attains Vaikunta, Service to Sadguru is 'Kailasa' and following His preachings is 'Brahmatva'. Everyone has to remember this. This has been emphasised in al l the Puranas (Scriptures) . Guru's teaching is 'Vaikunta'. The thundering voice of Guru will destroy all the sins. All the 'Dushta grahas' and all the bhoothas gets destroyed (i.e. all the bad effects of the planets and the satanic powers gets destroyed. Hence Guru mantra is itself enough as it is the highest of all the Mantras and this itself is 'yantra' (talisman hindering the evil effects ) . Hence, in this loka/world, in all the ages/Yugas, beginning from the Krita yuga upto the Kaliyuga, the incarnation of Sadguru, whether in the form of Devi/Goddess, Shiva, Vishnu, Brahma, seeing Him in the various forms in various Kshetras/places, we have come here,escaping. If a drop of mercury falls, that drop is only an atom of crores of mercuric power. That drop of mercury has again split into thousand of pieces, in the form of 'Aghatanaghatana' we are the individual souls in those drops of fallen mercury.That is why we have that energy and this energy belongs to Shiva Shakti and hence it has magnetic/attracting power. And this magnetic/attracting power is present in our body and intellect. In the human body it is present in the flesh and blood and that is why it gets attracted when it comes in contact with mercury and tries to join with that. Sadguru is joining it and making it a big mass. Since this mercuric power is present in our body, they form a big mass in us. In other words it is the 'veerya' or the *** or the created being ('Srishti jeevi) and this 'veerya' multiplies and takes the form of an atom and this atom divides itself and becomes a 'karma jeevi' (i.e. becoming a human being bound by karmas). Since we are attached to this mercuric power, we are all bound by karmas. To assemble these "Paadarasa"(mercury) together in a place, the "Guru Kanta" or "Vaikunta"(Guru's preaching/bodhanam) is in the form of "Shivayogi. That is why we are attracted to this sweet "Guru Kanta" (Guru's teachings).
This Brahmanda/Universe is very big. According to Science, it takes 8 minutes for the light to travel to earth. Hence 8 minutesx60 minx24 hrs=1 dayx365=Light year. This is one circle/completion of a cycle. In this Universe, this is not the only Sun. There are so many Suns present which are not taken into account as we are not aware of their presence. The light which travels to reach earth is taking 8 minutes, what about the light which has started travelling long back but not yet reached this earth till now by the other Suns not known to us? How big and expansive is this Universe! "Vishwakaram Gagana Sadrisham..............
Yogi hrdhyana gamyam" (a verse on Lord Vishnu) which means" this universe which looks like a vast space, consisting of so many suns, moons, starts etc. is seen/realised by the Yogis in their hearts in deep meditation". Sri Swamiji said " I am also a Sun. You are all pieces of the rays emitted by this Sun (i.e.Swamiji Himself).One day you also will become Suns because When you join the Sun light you also become Sun yourself. The presence of sugarcandy in a sweet cannot be taken out or separated from the sweet. The sugarcandy is melted in the sweet prepared and has lost its individual identity. Totally we call it sweet. We do not say this is small sweet and this is big sweet. Likewise, when the entire universe is taken, we are just small particles, small creatures. We feel we are big the city we live in is big. Elephants are given small eyes. If it were given big eyes it would have destroyed everything. That is why everything looks small to its eyes. It thinks it is small and is afraid of even small creatures/animals. It doesn't know of its strength.
But we are given 'jnana chakshus' (inner eye).
Where does the light come from for this entire universe? It is said that this light is coming from the 3 eyes of Lord Shiva (the Sun, the Moon and the Fire/Agni form the 3 eyes of Shiva) who is in the form of 'Shivayogi". That is why the world is full of light. Where there is no light, there is destruction. Where there is darkness, jeevis/beings are destroyed. That means where there is Agnana (ignorance), there is destruction. (Darkness is compared to ignorance and light is compared to Knowledge here). Where there is Jnana, there is 'Abhivriddhi' (increase of knowledge/jnana). That is the reason why we aspire for Jnana and to progress further. Even the Government encourages literacy and learning and teaching by each. Likewise one has to correct and get corrected; one has to attain knowledge and give the knowledge to others. Lord Shiva, is Light or Knowledge Himself . What happened to Lord Shiva one day is what I am going to tell you know. Sri Swamiji Sings "Sri Kanchi Kamakshi, Maam Pathu Karunakshi.."
Kanchinagar is a Kshetra. The above song is a Mantrapatha , lesson in the form of lesson. The story of Goddess Mother is contained in this song.Goddess Kaamakshi is the consort of Ekambareshwara,who is in the form of 'Ardhanareeshwara'. Kaamakshi has two meanings-one is destroyer of Maya and the other is fulfiller of wishes. That is why one who takes the darshan of Kanchi Kamakshi can observe/sense the eyes of the Mother's beautiful idol speaking. No other sculptor has carved such an idol. Mother Herself has come in the form of 'Swayambhu". Her one look will destroy 'Maya'. The River Kampa' is her court "Sabhabhavana'. The River Kampa is equal to River Ganes in its sacredness. If one takes bath in this river, not only sins get destroyed but one will get and develop 'compassion. The quality of 'daya'/'anukampa'(compassion) increases. When one takes bath in river Ganga (Ganges) they will be freed of 'kopa, thapa and papa (sufferings, anger and all sorts of sins),but for one who takes bath in Kampa, not only one gets Mother's grace and Anukampa, but also gets knowledge. Ganga took birth from the vessel (Akshayapatra) carried in the hands of Kamakshi. That is why She is Jnanaganga. That is why Sri Shankaracharya has established Jnanapeetam. Protection of one who takes refuge is sheelam. For those who pray Her, She has taken a vratham (a vow) to protect them. That is Her 'sheelam' (swabhavam or nature).
Kailasa is the abode of Shiva and Shakti. Kailasa is the blissful ('Laasa' means 'Ananda' bliss) and cold ie. peaceful, tranquil and attainment of this Kailasa will give one 'poorna moksha' (full liberation). Like Lord Shiva, who is 'Shanthaswaroopa' a Yogi is also 'Shantha'. Lord Shiva gives Yoga. So He is Shivayogi. (Shivayogi is always with the prakriti shakti) One day,when the Mother is sitting *** in Digambara yoga (Shivayogini form) . Here Goddess Mother is present in the form of flowers and fruits. Flowers and fruits represent 'prakriti' . She closes the eyes of Lord Shiva as she thought His 'Drishti' would fall on the shivayoginis present in the form of fruits and flowers. All the fruits and flowers are 'Stri' (women) and Purusha/Shiva is only One. But coconut is Shiva. It is a 'phala' but not a 'phala' (fruit) in the ordinary sense.
Since Shiva's Drishti falls on the fruits which are 'stree roopas' (form of women), fearing His Drishti would destroy them, Parvathi, Mother Goddess closes His eyes.
JAI GURU DATAA
Navaratri Discourse day 2 Rajarajeswari puja on October 14
Om Gam Ganapathi Sachidanandaya Vidmahe !
Lam Karunyamurthaye Dheemahi !
Draam Thannah Sri Guru Prachodayaath !!
Mother Goddess in all Her forms is blessing everyone in all the states. What are these 3 states? These are "Kayika, Vachika & Manasika (i.e. thought, word and deed)- sookshma, sthoola and Kaarana, these three are the states (i,e, Gross, Subtle and causal bodies). Normally , it is understood that these three states are applied to"Bala, Youvana and Vriddhapya" (i.e.Childhood, youth and old age). But here, Mother Goddess is blessing in Gross, subtle/astral and causal bodies as well as in the three states of Bala,Youvana and Vriddhapya. She is also blessing the the penances done physically, verbally and mentally. These physical,verbal and mental penances are powerful. Here body also means 'Indriyas" i.e. five senses. "Amma" (Mother) means 'Mercy","compassion" (i.e.daya, karuna), protection. That is why a child in its mother's lap feels secure, protected, cared and loved.
One who thinks 'Sthoola' is everything (i.e. one who thinks 'I am this body' /body-consciousness and always thinking of its maintenance and conscious of its beauty , having notions such as fasting would weaken their body and cause ill-health and hence indulge in eating, drinking always, and think that they live to eat) i.e.limiting themselves to the gross level) are demons who are of 'Tamasik' qualities. But it is said "Ya devi Sarva bhutheshu ...." that Goddess mother resides in the form of body. Here, to condemn the body/physical comforts and give liberation to that body, it is said so.
Vak and shareera- there is close relationship. Senses and body are also closely related. It has influence and power over 'vak'. Those who indulge in 'shareera tapanam' (i.e always thinking and caring for gross form) , their vak tapas will get destoyed. Mother Goddess graces those who does Shareera tapas, vak tapas and Mano tapas. The most important is controlling the body by which the 'vak' gets controlled automatically resulting in Vak shuddhi, Vak siddhi. Food is to be taken only as much as required to protect the body. There are Mahatmas/Maharshis who take air as food. The frog and snake also live on air as well as they collect and preserve and digest food. Likewise, human beings also earn and preserve riches for their future and think of protecting it always till their death and again because of the 'Vasana' they take birth again in the earth and suffer 'karmas' due to vasanas. The ants also collect and preserve food. There is a "Chaya Simhika' (a demoness or a strange animal the reference of which is made in Ramayana when Hanumantha, in search of Seetha went to Lanka flying over the sea, comes in contact with this 'Chaya Simhika' which through its powers attracted Hanumantha's shadow thinking that He is a fruit to eat. This chaya simhika lives on earth roams about in forest but eat the birds and creatures that live/fly in the sky. It is a peculiar creation of God. Such a facility/quality is available in human body. He can live in forest and eat seafood or creatures that live in sea; living in water/sea can eat the food that is available in forest; living in forest can eat creatures or anything that live in the sky; flying/living in the sky can eat the food available on the earth. But now Man immersed in the sense-pleasures has destroyed his 'vak' powers. He has lost the power of 'vak' i.e. he has lost purity of words/speech 'vak shuddhi' and indulges in saying bad words, abusing others, having 'tamasik qualities', no control over food habits; all these result in vak ashuddhi and losing of honesty in words. Hence of all these tapas i.e. shareera tapas, vak tapas and manasika tapas, manasika tapa is more important than shareerika tapas ; vak tapas is more important than the shareerika tapas. After doing all these tapas for the whole day, and by getting provoked over small trifles in a single moment and speaking or uttering bad words or cursing others will destroy all the results of such penances (tapas) done for the whole day. So by cursing others, it will not only affect others in anyway one will be losing his own strength, energy and power earned by penance.
A Maharshi named Kolav, does such a great penance of the three states as mentioned above, for many yugas (ages) in the precincts of Kollur also called Kolapuri, which is situated in the opposite direction of Sahyadri Mountain ranges. The structure, the atmosphere, the surroundings of this place Kollur is very beautiful and in the form of 'Srichakra'. Normally 'tapas' is performed for fulfillment of some wish. Even to merge with God or to become 'Parabrahma' himself is also a wish. When shall this wish be fulfilled? Sri Swamiji says"when the desire/wish dies" (ie when one attains the state of desirelessness). " When does this desire die? " "After doing the penance"; After doing the penance, if the desire dies, then what is the use of doing penance as it is normally done for fulfillment of desire? This is the question asked by those who possess 'tamasik qualities' says Swamiji. To control desire, tapas should be done. What is this tapas-korike or wish? In fact there is no end to desire; fulfillment of one desire leads to wishing of another desire. Desires need not be essentially for selfish purposes. It could be for attaining 'moksha' or merging with Parabrahma, or for 'Loka kalyana'
Now Sri Swamiji explains how Kola Maharshi did penance in that holy place of Kollur, how did Mother Goddess Sri Chamundeswari, Chandi, Durgi came to be known as Mookambika, how did She incarnated in that place and how Lord Shiva Himself created a 'Srichakra' in that holy place. Sri Swamiji sang his new composition:
'Kolapuri Mookambika, Leelachari Devaatmika'
In the above song is contained the whole story. Kolapuri, Kolhapura and Kollur are three different places and in all the three holy places Mahalakshmi is the presiding deity. Now Kolapura Mahalakshmi's story, Sri Swamiji is narrating. In Kolhapura Mahalakshmi is in the Shakti form and in Kolpuri She is in Vishnu's form and hence called Vaishnavi. Maharshi (sage) Kola,the Brahma-maanasa-putra ( son, born out of the mind of Brahma) did penance for vanquishing of demon Kolasura. This story of Kola Maharshi is an example to show how great men perform penance for vanquishing of demons for the good of the world and desiring nothing for themselves. When the penance is performed for good of the world, such desires are fulfilled immediately but that done for selfish purposes will not be fulfilled. But only Lord Brahma grants the desire done with both the purposes i.e. selfish purpose as well as for the good of others. But here Kola, the noble sage did tapas meditating on Lord Shiva for killing of the demon,Kolasura. This Sahyadri mountain range has spread almost all over Karnataka touching the Tirumal Tirupathi also. That is why Lord Dattatreya wanders in these ranges and in the afternoon goes to Gaya and Prayaga for the holy bath and to Ganagapura for his 'Bhiksha'. That is why Dattareya's Mahima and devotees of Datta are more in number in the south region. When Shiva appears, pleased with the penance of Kola Maharshi and ask him his wish, Kola Maharshi says that this holy placed should be named after him and it should become a 'siddha kshetra' (i.e.a place where tapas are accomplished successfully). and whoever does penance here should get their desires fulfilled . Lord Shiva tells him that the tapas he did will not suffice to fulfil his wish and hence he should perform tapas for a 'Manvantara" (i.e. completion of the 4 yugas successively), till 'Trishakti Mata' comes here to this place to fulfill his wish. He further says that such a situation of Trishakti Mata coming to this place will arise and giving His 'Parthiva Linga' asked Kola Maharshi to meditate Lord Shiva in that 'Parthiva Linga'form. In the Linga purana the powers of worshipping Lord Shiva in various Linga forms like Loha Linga, Shila Linga, Parthiva lingam, chitra Lingam, Mano Lingam is narrated, as a special and powerful worship. It is also given in detail the various aupices/results or fruits that arise out of worshipping of various idols i.e.Devathas which effective curative powers for psychological/mental woes (Manovyadhi/mano vyatha). They also have indicated method of worships for realising the accomplishments.
So Kola Maharshi went on with his 'tapas' for several thousands of years. Then a demon by name 'Kamhasura' pleased Shakti Durga by his penance and got granted a boon that no man shall conquer or kill him. After that this demon after conquering so many kingdoms comes to this place Kolapura. Seeing this beautiful and wonderful place he felt like establishing his kingdom there and threw away the Kola Maharshi physically ,who was doing penance mentally. Kola Maharshi was in transcendental state unconscious of his body and mind. Then this demon Kamhasura who was troubling Devathas (Gods) and other saintly persons. Unable to withstand this any more, the Devathas and Rishis prayed to Shakti Durga for killing this demon Kamhasura Herself as he had been torturing and killing innocent rishis and causing them trouble and sufferings without any fear as he knew he could not be killed by any man. Here a peculiar situation of killing her son arises as no purusha (man) could kill him by the powers of the boons She Herself had granted. So She goes Herself to this place, Kolapura in the form of Goddess Bhairavi to kill this demon. Coming to know of this, the demon runs away to 'Rishyamooka' Mountain and indulged in penance. The God Who granted such boon only should do the 'samhara' (vanquishing) also. Like the killing of Bhasmasura, the demon, by Lord Vishnu in Mohini roopa (form). Knowing of Goddess Bhairavi's arrival, all the Devathas started coming to this place and settled there. The Kola Maharshi who was in deep penance, had Darshan of Lord Vishnu before the completion of the stipulated period of penance prescribed by Lord Shiva. Since Kola Maharshi had concentrated and meditated both on Vishnu and Shiva, both the Gods appear. When Vishnu and Shiva comes to that place to bless Kola Maharshi, Lord Brahma also came and all the Devathas also followed the suit. In the meanwhile there arises some trouble. A demon named Mahishasura, elder brother of demon Kamhasura, had started troubling and creating problems for Devathas. Incidentally, he also had the boon of not getting killed by any man by the Goddess. The demon Kamhasura, through his tapas shakti (power of penance) came to know that his brother Mahishasura has created more problems and troubles and for the time being, Kamhasura decided to keep quite till his brother stops creating nuisances. In the meantime, in Kolapura where Goddess Bhairavi had taken residence and Brahma,Vishnu Maheshwara,who also had come pleased with the penance of Kola Maharshi , and the other Devathas, held a Session to think of a way to vanquish Mahishasura first as he was creating more problems than the others. Then when they made 'Sankalpa' together, immediately there emanates Tejas/shakti from the face of the Trinity Gods (Brahma, Vishnu & Maheshwara) and other Devathas from their respective 'Amshas' and all these Tejas/shakti joining together , a most powerful form of Chandi, Goddess Mother arises out of the Celestial fire. That Mother who has come in the form of Chandi devi was given different 'Ayudhas'/Shastras (weapons and armoury) by each of the Trinity Gods and all the Devathas. She leaves to kill Mahishasura. After Her departure, only Vishnu an Shiva along with Kola Maharshi remain there. That place where Kola Maharshi had meditated upon Vishnu and Shiva, came to be called 'Mookambika Parvatha, mountain' and it is like a 'Ardha meru' form, a special 'bhooprasthara' form. When Kola Maharshi was asked by Shiva to utter his wish, Kola Maharshi requested Lord Shiva to stay there permanently. Lord Shiva agrees and stays there. When Lord Shiva stayed there, Lord Vishnu also takes residence in that place. Lord Shiva Himself created 'Srichakra Yantra' and instals there and Lord Vishnu protects it. Mother Goddess Chandi, resided here in the Bhairavi roopa, Vaishnavi Roopa along with Shiva Vishnu and other Devathas and Goddess and other Devathas prays to Lord Shiva. Sri Swamiji sings a Bhajan:
"Kolapuri Chakra Rajam Bhaje, Mookambika Chakra Rajam bhaje"
After Mahishasura was killed and Goddess came to be called Mahishasuramardini, Lord Shiva pleased asked Her to ask for a boon and She requests Him to merge in the Srichakra yantra he created. Hence, in Kolapuri, this Srichakra Yantra is a specialty as He Himself resides in it. It is in Shiva Shakti merged form. If you recite once the word 'Kolapuri' it is enough to destroy sins. The Devathas now turned their attention towards the demon Kamhasura who was doing penance in 'Rishyamooka' mountains and they prepared to wage war and kill him. At the same time, pleased with the penance of the demon, Lord Shiva also goes to Rishyamooka. In the meantime, Devathas pray to Goddess Mahalakshmi who was in Kolapur to do something before Lord Shiva grants boon to the demon. Then Goddess Mahalakshmi makes him dumb so that he is not able to express his wish. When Lord Shiva asks him to utter his wish, he is unable to do so and the demon comes to know of the cheat these devathas had done for him. He comes to fight against Mother Goddess. Now that her son has come to her place to fight against her, she also had to fight and kill him and gives him 'Moksha' also. Since she made the demon 'mooka' (dumb) She came to be called 'Mookambika'. Those who possess 'tamasik' qualities pray to this Goddess Mookambika, the 'vak' ashuddhi, (impurity of speech, i.e uttering bad/slang language, and abusing others) will get destroyed. That is why the presence of this Sri Yantra in Kolapuri is specially auspicious and those who worship this Sri Yantra will be bestowed with all auspices and prosperity.
"Jayalakshmi Talli Janani Mahamaye Nijamuga ....."
At this stage Sri T.R.Krishnappa wanted a clarification about the verse: "Sarva Mangala Mangalye Shive Sarvartha Sadhike Sharanye Tryambake Gowri Narayani Namosthute" Sri Swamiji explained the meaning of the above verse as follows: Of the Navadurga forms of Devi Narayani is one of the forms. This 'Narayani' is interpretted in many ways; viz. 1. She is in the Mother's form for Narayana; hence She is Narayani; 2. Who resides in the heart of Vishnu i.e. Sree nivasa His Heart is the residence for Mahalaxmi'' 3. Since She resides inside the heart She was called Sridevi and hence called Narayani; As we address Goddess Mother as Laxmi Narayana so do we call her Narayani also; Just like Laxminarayana, Parvathi Parameswara-in these names Mother Godess's name comes first, like that Narayani Herself is the Mother; One who resides in the heart of Narayana is one of the meanings; Since She resides in the heart of Narayana ; in the hearts of Nara and Narayana, Narayana in the form of Nara; So when she resides in Narayana, there is no Narayana , She is Narayani only; When Sridevi is in the heart of Narayana, She becomes Narayani only; In the Nama "Srinivasa" though they call it Vishnu's name there is no Vishnu's name actually as Sri or Sree means Lakshi, Jaganmate Nivasa means to reside ; so the meaning is Residence of Lakshmi; there is no Vishnu's name there. Sri means sampath or wealth, it is 'Jnana sampath' (wealth of Knowledge); Which is Jnana Sampath? It means the One who resides in poornaswaroopa in the microcosm as well as macrocosm; who is in the indivisible form; and this is 'sampath' (wealth) Sri is this 'sampath' and is not 'stree' (woman) as understood generally. So Sree/Sri is 'sampath' and when we say "Srinivasa', the one who has covered both the microcosm and macrocosm; Sri is the heart of Narayana, hence She is Narayani; the One who resides in all forms and in all names, 'Shive" one who destroys sins; 'Sarvartha sadhike" means who creates the universal matter , who also does the dissolution and again does the creation. That is we are referring to creation and dissolution; Here it engulfs wider meaning viz. She is both creation and dissolution; there is 'paramartha' also; She is Brahma, Chaitanya and Brahmanda swaroopa, Poorna swaroopa means minus zero. 'Sharanye' means I am merging with Such a Jaganamata; second meaning is that I am surrendering to Her; another meaning is that Such a Mother of Universe is protecting me ; also means I am protected; another meaning is that there actual exists no separation; - She is protecting those who are surrendering to Her; 'Gowri' means 'auspicious' 'Mangalye' means the First born, the first that came out of the creation; 'Shive Mangalye' means She is Swarna Gowri (Swarna means gold); also means the first born out of the nature 'prakriti' When earth was created or came into existence the first 'Loharasa' i.e. metallic extract that came first is 'gold' hence She is 'Swarna Gowri' ; the whole universe which is under Her control; and hence She is both 'Prakriti' and 'Purusha' ; She is also 'prakriti mata' that means Mother of nature; She is Mother of Narayana, resides in the heart of Narayana and hence Narayani and we bow/prostrate to such 'Narayani'.
JAI GURU DATTA
Navaratri Discourse day 3 Vishalakshi puja on October 15
Om Gam Ganapathi Sachidanandaya Vidmahe !
Lam Karunyamurthaye Dheemahi !
Draam Thannah Sri Guru Prachodayaath !!
Today Mother Goddess Durga Parameshwari is in the form of Lalitha Parameswari and Aadi Lakshmi forms. Normally 'Lakshmi' will mean Lord Vishnu's Consort. But today's form is not Vishnu's consort but She is Durgilakshmi-'Amsa' of Durga/Chandika. She has worn Lord Shiva as jewel. Shiva has worn 'Ganga' as jewel on His head. Keeping 'Nagabharana' (serpent-like jewel) on Her head, She had invoked Shiva in that crest-jewel of Nagabharana. Today's Lakshmi is the deity Who reside in Kolhapura, in the state of Maharashtra. This Goddess Durgalakshmi has created holy places around Her city and installing Herself in the middle, is gracefully blessing the people. The story which Sri Swamiji is going to narrate happened in one of the age-old yuga and today's method of worship pertain to this story. Mother Goddess in Her Durgi form took the form of Adi Parashakti, exposing her 'sowmya roopa' (peaceful form) has attracted Maharshis including Lord Dattatreya. Who is Durgi Lakshmi? Mahalakshmi in Kolhapura is Herself Durgilakshmi. All the Devathas have installed 'yantras' there. Since She has attracted Maharshis and Dattatreya, She is even called 'Lalitha Parameswari' and Rajarajewari. This Goddess, fulfiller of all wishes is the Durga/Mahalakshmi, the presiding deity of Kolhapur. Sri Swamiji recollects an incident here.
Sri Swamiji along with some of the Ashramites/devotees had visited this place few months back and has performed Ksheerabhisheka to this Mahalakshmi. A miracle that took place was explained by Kuppa Krishnamurthy :
In the year 1996,Sri Swamiji and devotees and Ashramites left in a bus and two cars to visit Pandaripura, Ganagapura, Kolhapura and some places in the state of Maharashtra, (these Kshetras created by Mother Goddess) Sri Kuppa Krishnamurthy was one of the devotees who accompanied Sri Swamiji during this tour. They visited this Mahalakshmi Temple in Kolhapur. By the time they reached the temple, the 'Abhisheka for Mother was over and they had decorated her with jewels and 'archana' was going on. According to the rules of the temple, no one was allowed inside the sanctum-sanctorum of the temple, be it a Minister, Prime-Minister or any other dignitories holding high position. When Swamiji stood for Darshan, the priests of that temple treated Swamiji like any other ordinary people. There was a heavy crowd due to arrival of a Governor and some dignitories. Because of the presence of Governor and other dignitaries, the head-priest (Pradhana Archaka) had come to perform special pooja. On seeing Sri Swamiji, this Head-priest went inside the sanctum-sanctorum and removing all the jewels that had already been decorated after the abhisheka and made arrangements for 'panchamrita ' keeping milk, curds, ghee, sugar, plantains etc. No one knew what happened but he, immediately prostrating to Sri Swamiji took Sri Swamiji inside the Sanctum-sanctorum. Sri Swamiji performed 'panchamrita abhisheka to the Goddess and decorated Himself the idol of the Mother. He called all the devotees and ashramites who had accompanied Him inside the sanctum-sanctorum to the amazement of everyone. He even tied the 'mangalya' to the idol. The priests and other people talked something in Marathi and they all came to Sri Swamiji requested Him to perform 'sankeertana' in the precincts of the temple. All elaborate arrangements for accommodating and providing food and other things for Sri Swamiji and the devotees were made immediately. The Sankeertana was performed by Sri Swamiji in the evening. There was a big crowd for the Sankeertana of Sri Swamiji and recognising the unique specialty in the concert people were very happy. This is the 'Aakarshana shakti' (attracting power) of Sri Swamiji. Sri Swamiji told Sri Kuppa Krishnamurthy that it was Dattatreya along with Lakshmi's 'Aakarshana'. The practice of the localities is that they keep 'panchamrita' as 'Naivedya' for Dattatreya. Sri Kuppa Krishnamurthy said that he was at a loss to understand whether it was Sri Swamiji who attracted Mother Lakshmi or Mother Lakshmi Herself seeing this Dattatreya (Our Swamiji) attracted Him and also blessed His shishyas (disciples) (i.e. ashramites and others who had accompanied Sri Swamiji),
Sri Swamiji sang his new composition.
"Jaya Kolhapura Jagadamba, Jaya Mama Hrudaye Jagadamba "
Sri Swamiji explained the meaning briefly of the above song. The one who resided in Padmavathipura, brilliant/effulgent with the grandeur or the overflow of mercy - (Here compassion or 'Karuna', mercy is the grandeur of the Mother is the speciality. There is 'Dhanabala Vijrumbhana, 'Adhikarabala Vijrumbhana, Madabala vijrumbhana, santhanabala vijumbhana, rakshasabala vijrumbhana etc. But here, the mercy or compassion of the Mother is showered on the devotee who sees Her, who worships Here.) the one who was away for few months and came back again to Karaveerapura, the one Who has worn Shiva Linga in Her Crown, the one who is carrying 'akshaya vessel' in Her hands , having the name of Mahalakshmi,, one who possesses the power of Sachchidananda shakti- May Victory be Hers. The story of Kolhapuri Mahalakshmi is contained in this song itself.
Sri Swamiji had narrated that a powerful 'Shakti' was sent to vanquish the demond Mahishasura who was possessing Rajoguna and thamoguna qualities.That Shakti taking the form of Chamundewari and vanquishing the demon, thereby redressing the suffering and woes of saintly people and then She went to Karavirapur and taking the 'sowmya' (pleasing and peaceful form ) and sitting on the diamond-seat, granting 'Shakti' (strength), bhakti (devotion), Mukti (liberation) virakti (dispassion), and fulfilling the desires/wishes of Her devotees. Such a Shakti stayed permanently in that Kolhapur or Padmavathipura. Lord Vishnu, Brahma &Shiva have a 'Sankalpa' of keeping an amsa of Mother Goddess wherever on earth or any other worlds, she incarnates. That is why She stayed in Durga form in Padmavathipura. All the Devathas were happy and prayed to Goddess to give darshan whenever they prayed. She should come and protect them. Mother Goddess granted their wishes by staying in Padmavthipura in sookshma/subtle (astral) form. On the banks of river Venna, stood in a permanent form. At that time the son of Yadu, named Padmavan had built that beautiful city of Padmavathipura, which was in the form of a lotus. At this time, Lord Brahma creates 3 sons viz. Gaya, Lavana and Kolaha. These three sons of Brahma occupied different places and started attracting the results/fruits of the power that had accumulated for performing penances over several thousands of years. When a Yagna is performed if the 'havissu' falls down should not be taken back as it goes to the demons as their share/portion. Even while performing if a flower falls one should not take it back and offer it to God as the fallen flower would have been picked up by other devathas and eaten by them. During the worship of God, if one thinks of any other person, the results of such worship would go to the person thought of. Hence one should concentrate only on God while worshipping. If one thinks of 'rakshasa swaroopa' they get 'rakshasa phala or tamasik qualities; if one thinks of 'manusha swaroopa, they get, human qualities, if one thinks of 'devatha swaroopa, they get 'sattvik qualities. Whatever one think corresponding results they get. That is why during the worship, one should try to join or merge the mind in God only. If there is no light, one should not take food in the darkness itself; immediately they should light a candle or wait till the power comes and then take food, since during darkness, 'rakshasas' demons wander in their subtle forms; But this is not applicable to holy and sacred places, one can eat even when the light goes off. ; One should sit and urinate but not in standing position whether it is man or woman or a child, as, if the urine falls on the feet it is considered as 'brahmadosham' and would be the cause for 'kshayaroga' or cancer; if they do by mistake, they should undergo punishment as repentance or should touch Sadguru or take the Guru Padodakam (the water by which Gurus feet are washed). This is most easiest way of repentance. Even drinks like coffee, tea, water etc. should not be taken in standing position. One has to sit and drink. Only during emergencies, during travelling time or for patients, exemption for them is allowed. When the food or drink is taken in correct sitting position, the liquid that is taken goes straight and falls on the 'saligrama' that is situated in the navel portion. One should not keep the food plate on the lap and eat food. When done, the food becomes equal to excreta, since 'annam' is Brahmam. One should respect and prostrate and offer prayers to 'Anna Brahmam'before eating 'Annam'. It should be kept away from the body and eaten. It is energy; the ingredients added to the Annam (cooked rice) in the form of chilies, salt, savour etc. is energy. Even table meals is also prohibited, except in special circumstances and for patients it is exempted. Even while sitting to eat food, the sitting position should be such that the legs should be kept crossed on the lap. There are so many rules fin observing food habits. For realisation of Brahma Jnana how close is Guru Tattvam, so close is observing food and other habits strictly as per rules prescribed in the Shastras.
Now,of the three sons of Brahma, (who became demons) Gaya, Lavana and Kolaha, Gaya and Lavana were killed by Mahavishnu. The place the demon Gaya was killed, came to be known as 'Gaya' itself. All the three became very powerful demons and hence Mahavishnu had to kill them. Out of these 3 sons, Kolaha had a little of the sattvic qualities though he possessed more of tamasik qualities and that is why he had not been killed.
This Kolaha demon went to Padmavathipura and performed severe penance. While he was doing penance, there comes another demon named 'Sukesa' and occupies that kingdom of Padmavathipura. Devathas had fought wth him many times but could not succeed in killing or conquering him. Because he was destined to be killed by Kolaha demon and that was the boon the demon Sukesa had got from Brahma. But Kolaha was in penance. So Devathas woke him up from the penance to kill sukesa. After waking up, Kolaha comes to know that his kingdom had been occupied by Sukesa while he was in penance. Angered at this, they fight and Kolaha kills Sukesa. Devathas were happy. But to wake him up Brahma bribes him by granting boon and this boon brought all the troubles to him. He had two sons, The eldest named Karavira was coronated on the throne by his father, kolaha and Kolaha leaves for doing penance again to accumulate more powers. Karavira had become like a 'visha rakshasa' (when a small portion of poison is injected daily to one's system from the childhood, as food, one becomes poisonous person, full of poison in the body) with body full of poison.
Even Nalaguru the second son also becomes like that. These two demons troubled the saintly people very much and they suffer much at the hands of these demons. Again the devathas and these saints prays Lord Shiva and Lord Shiva kills karaveera. But Karaveera was a Shiva devotee and asks for a boon from Shiva that the place where he lived should be called by his name only. Shiva grants the boon but kills Karaveera. Kolaha comes to know of his son's death and thinking how powerful these devathas were, decided to fight and conquer the devathas. Then he thinks of how these devathas got so much power after their arrival to Padmavathipura . Then he comes to know that it was because of the presence of Padmavathi or Mahalakshmi. Then he prays to Mahalakshmi to leave the place and not to come back till the completion of one year. She, granting the boon leaves Padmavathipura. Now the Rakshasa rule reign over that kingdom and again devathas and other saints suffered at the hands of kolaha demon. Again devathas and rishis pray to Goddess Lakshmi requesting Her to go back to Padmavathipura as they had lost their powers because of Her absence there and had weakened and suffering at the hands of the demon kolaha. But Goddess Lakshmi says since She had granted Kolava the boon of leaving the city for a period of one year, She was not in a position to go till the completion of period of one year. As the days passed, the stipulated period of one year lapsed without the demons noticing it as they were enjoying and taking pleasures in cruelly hurting and harming people, being pride and egoistic over the victory they had gained over the devathas. Then, Goddess Mahalakshmi comes to Padmavathipura, after the completion of one year and kills the demon Kolaha. After that realisation dawns on him and he recollects his previous births and repenting for all his crimes and cruelty and in asking Her, the Mother of the three worlds to go away from Padmavathipura begs Her to pardon him and requests Mother to name the place as Kolhapura so that people who visited this Kshetra (holy place) and whoever possessed tamasik qualities like him should get destroyed of their tamasik qualities by having Her Holy Darshan at this place and become sattvic and further asks Her to stay there permanently and make it a 'Siddha Kshetra' and created kshetras for those devathas who had resided in the other places around this Kolhapura and had helped Her to take a permanent residence. Even the great Sage Agasthya who had ordered Mount Vindhya in the northern part of India to bend and not to grow to keep the balance of the earth, came to south and stayed in this place and doesn't go to north since Mount Vindhya would grow again causing imbalance of the earth. Even Lord Dattatreya asks Goddess Lakshmi to give Him alms everyday at noon when He would come to Kolhapura after wandering in places around Sahyadri mount range to bless people and after taking bath in Gaya and Prayaga. Even today Dattatreya goes to Kolhapura to receive 'Bhiksha' from the hands of Mahalakshmi. Then Kolaha prays to Goddess Lakshmi after he gets realisation as below:
Kshamasvaparaadham Mahalakshmi Deveem
Kshamasavaparaadham Varam me Pradehi
Oh Mahalakshmi please pardon me for all my mistakes. I have suffered punishment for having asked You to leave Your own place. " prays Kolaha to Mahalakshmi and 3 boons were given by Goddess Mahalakshmi, viz. that Mahalakshmi has to stay wherever She is now all the time; to make this holy place as Siddha Kshetra; and to name the place after his name only with an intention of remembering his story for those people who possessed tamasik qualities like him and learn lessons and to become sattvic.
Even after getting realisation, why did he ask to name the place after him? Many people may get a doubt. Sri Swamiji clarifies in ancient times, whenever great mahatmas built temples after giving crores of rupees, they used to get their names and figures carved on the step-stones so that devotees who would walk on it would trample their feet on their names and thereby would destroy the donors' ego completely and would humble them further. But nowadays people get carve their names on the stones and place it on the walls or high over the ceiling or on the tube lights etc. for having donated money. In fact it is said that what one gives from right hand, even left hand should not know. It should be kept so secret and not go on boasting and telling everybody about their huge donations of money for any cause. In fact, they should not even think of it once they have given away and forget it entirely. If they remember, it is a sin. If at all they remember accidentally also they should be ashamed of getting the remembrance of it.
So Kolaha was killed by Devi's Brahmastra and Devi gives him 'jeevanmukti' (liberation). That is why this is to teach a lesson for those who have in view of earning name and fame and to avoid such recurrence of acquiring such bad qualities again and again, once it is destroyed. Some people mention their names in many places when they give donations and some unselfish people do not even mention of it. But why does people not learn such unselfish service ? Another point of view is to encourage such unselfish service by taking their examples. That is why the names should never be put on top but always should be put on the ground.
It is said Goddess has four hands.
"Matulungam Gadaam Khetam Paana paatram cha bhibhrathi..."
'Matulungaphalam' (a kind of fruit), spear, mace, vessel containing nectar, a Nagabharana (serpent-like crest jewel), in the Nagabharana jewel, Shiva bimbam, Yonimudra means srichakra mudra or creation,srsti chakra, those who worship Goddess and touches Her, they need never worship or perform pooja of Srichakra. To touch Her and to serve Her is a Yoga. The mahima or greatness of that kshetra and the other kshetras surrounding the Kolhapura are: " Karaveeram Viroopaksham Srisailam Pandurangakam Srirangam Sethubandham cha Bhukti Mukti Pradaayini shat !" These 6 kshetras viz. Karaveera, Hampe Virupaksha, Srisailam, Pandarapura, Sriranga and Rameswaram, are known as "Bhakti (devotion) and Mukti Kshetras. (the visit and darshan of these 6 holy places will not only bestow bhukti, (food)) ,bhakti (devotion) and Mukti (liberation) . Since we have got 'karma shareera, bhukti (food) will be bestowed. Then devotion and ultimately mukti can be got. Sri Swamiji cites a verse here:
Namastestu Maha Maye Srepeete Surapujithe
Shankha chakra Gadaa Haste, Mahalakshmi Namosthuthe
HH Sri Swamiji sang the following bhajans:
"Lalithadevi Mama Sharanam ,Kalitha Shivaanka Mama sharanam "
and
"Dum Dum Dum Dum Durga, Lam Lam Lam Lam Lalitha "
JAI GURU DATTA
Navaratri Discourse day 4 Meenakshi puja on October 16
Om Gam Ganapathi Sachidanandaaya Vidmahe
Lam Karunyamurthaye Dheemahi
Draam Thannah Sri Guru Prachodayaath !
Sri Swamiji opened the discourse today with a song:
Padma manduru needu paadamu
Talli Yetladi namma sakhyam
Sri Swamiji said that the above song is a wonderful song and should be sung in a calm peaceful atmosphere. Here the Padma is compared to the Mother's feet which is soft like lotus flower. "Oh Talli yetladi...." Here the composer says "Oh Mother let your lotus feet reside in my heart". It can be said in another way - 'Let thy feet be in our lotus heart". We call Her feet as lotus feet which means that which gives knowledge. When the rays of the sun falls on the lotus flower, it blossoms. "Surya kirana" i.e. rays of the sun means "Guru Jnana"(Knowledge of a Guru). We can also say that our head (brain) itself is 'padma'/lotus. 'Sahasra padmam-sahasraram". The Sahasrara chakra situated in our brain is also a lotus flower. That is why when the feet of a Guru touches our head, when the rays of light of a Guru falls on us or the Guru's 'padakirana' (the light of his feet's power) falls on us, this lotus situated in our brain (which is called Sahasrara) blossom as realisation of knowledge dawns on us. The two petals which are joined is called 'Padmam' (Lotus) - 'Sahasra dala' (thousand petals) joined is 'Padmam'. In the two petals , in the thousand petals (sahasra dala) joined in the subtlest form is called 'sahasra dala'. Commencing from the Muladhara upto the 'Sahasrara chakra in the 'shat chakras' these padmas blossom when a Sadguru's 'dristi' falls on them. Sadguru's krupa (compassion) is a kirana, ray of light. Till then, it keeps closed. Sri Swamiji had explained a 'Tattva' to the foreigners in the morning. Take a hair. The hair starts growing from the root that is from the pate. But there was a demon named 'Eka Kesara' who was opposed to yoga and was killed by Mother Goddess. He had only one hair and it grew from the opposite direction. The blood supply for the hair comes from the hair-root. That is why when energy is passed to the hair root it reaches till the end of the hair. But if the energy is passed at the end of the hair, it does pass through and reach the hair root but the energy will not be retained, resulting in loss of energy. That is why energy should be passed through from the hair root alone. That means from the point where 'moola' (origin/base/root) starts/yoga starts from that point alone energy is to be passed. Yoga has taken its birth from the Mooladhara. That is why a hit is to be received from the lotus feet of Sadguru at Muladhara and Sahasrara points. Here 'hit' means 'Karuna' (compassion/mercy) When Sadguru's "Karuna prasara" (spreading of mercy) in the form of a hit at the Mooladhara and at Sahasrara, 'yoga prasara' takes place. On the contrary if it is done in the opposite direction or in any other chakras, the yoga gets spoiled.
Sri Swamiji is explaining the following 'Mother's yogaTattva' in a most simplest manner. He takes copper wire as an example. Copper wire is manufactured at the factory. We take out the copper wire and roll it. Electricity is passed through this and using this for different purposes. We do not know is the beginning point and where does it end point. We are simply wiring it as we like. That is why we are noticing differences in the wiring. In fact, scientifically, the copper wire, from where it started and where it ended, the end point d be plugged so that there is smooth flow of electric supply and there is no waste and reaches the bulbs.. If the beginning point of the copper wire is plugged, it goes waste. and the cable also gets spoiled. as it is charged in the opposite direction. But electric supply goes whether you plug and starting point or the ending point. For example, if you put a thing in the flood from above, it comes down easily. A fish comes down easily in the flood. It can also go from down to top but with difficulty. A good swimmer can swim down easily; he can also swim up against the flood but with great effort and difficulty as it is in opposite direction. So, a Sadguru will know from where the yoga started or from which chakra-is it from -Swadhishtana,Manipoora or Muladhara and so on, in his disciple, and then will energise/charge His power from that point. The Electricity authorities should find out from which point electricity is to be passed through (Here Electricity authorities can be applied to a Sadguru and copper wire to a disciple. Likewise, the Sadguru (who is compared to Electricity authority) who is to charge/pass energy in a disciple's Moola (root) (disciple is compared to copper wire) first has to ascertain the root (moola) (i.e. the point where energy is to be charged) and energises/pass the energy in that point. then the disciple becomes a yogi. But when will He (Guru) do this? When He finds disciple is eligible/qualified to receive the energy. If not in this birth, perhaps in the next or in any of the future births. But there is no guarantee. So what is to be done? One has to go on doing service. Sadguru is doing research in the copper wire (i.e.in the disciple) to find out the point for passing the energy. When He gets the point, immediately current is passed through. Since a Sadguru has no death, He can do this to his disciple if not in this birth or in this body/shareera, or in the next and so on till the disciple is qualified.
That is why Here Mother's feet which is compared to a lotus is 'padma manduru needu paadamu' means Sri Swamiji is speaking like a child'padma metlagunu nee paadamu' (Her feet is lotus steps ) it cannot be believed. Because 'Manchu kondapai nadachusundunu manchu sukkayai taapa margunu manchu periki maadipovu aa padma metluni padava polunu"-- When She walks on the ice in the Himalayas the ice burns away,but Her feet is holier than the ice pieces/cubes. It is so auspicious. They say Sadguru's heart is softer than the butter and harder than the diamond. The butter melts when it is heated. But Sadguru's heart which is compared to butter will melt just by the nearness of an ice-candle.. But He will not show it off - because of pride and ego (sattvic) (this pride and ego for a Sadguru is only assumed as He only wants to test his disciples). Just to teach lessons to the disciples. But He cannot hide it. It comes out. But still He says His heart does not melt. When He says it does not melt, it means it has melted.
Mother's feet is more than the ice that means ice melts when the sun's rays falls on it. It takes sometime and little heat to get melted. But Mother's feet is more than the ice means it will not even take that time and heat which is required by an ice cube to melt. The poet further goes to say that Her feet has melted in the ice itself. So how can they call Her feet as 'padma metlu'? It is unbelievable. This is a wonderful song containing deep inner meaning.
It contains the full meaning/tattva of 'Devi Bhagavatha'. Today's main deity worshipped is 'Meenakshi'. Sri Swamiji sings His new composition of Devi Meenakshi before he proceeds with Her story.
Jaya Madhura Meenakshi Maam Palaya
Jaya Girisha Lolaakshi Maam palaya
"O Pandyaraja vamsha deepama Sweeya parakramam" Her valour is great. She rules over the country of Pandya.
This story is unique and teaches her 'Tattva' .Now it is common slogan that 'Stree' women have not freedom and are not treated equal. On the other hand women have played important role in ruling the kingdom, have served in higher positions in almost all the fields, even from the age old yugas. Take the example of Maitreyi and Gargi who were 'brahma jnanis' who were learned and used to participate along with men in highest spiritual discussions and even excelled them. They learnt vedas and also recited participating in the yagas and yagnas. They have even done parallel creation. Anasuyadevi had the power of creation. Women character, 'pati nishta', jnana, bhakti,vairagya was great. They have power of creating the world, yoga of parallel creation and Mother's grace. But we still have we have no equality. You can claim for 'Jnanasamana' (equality in knowledge) but not in position and other things. There is this wonderful equality but no one has tried to utilise it. Sri Swamiji says what is equality according modern view I do not understand. Do they want change of *** organ? Or do they want to wear pant and shirt like men, is this equality? Is it standing before the mike and deliver lectures? All the powers that men possess, women also possess the same, then what is equality? You are equal in knowledge, education, wealth. Even men give lectures saying that women need equality. Outside they give lectures and once they come home they indulge in wife-beating. They also do not allow them to go out and use them as if they are dolls, like some enjoyable thing.
Even from Devatha Kaala (time) the Paramatva, whose tattva is 'samanatva' equality, when Mother was created, Vishnu kept Her in His heart; Shiva kept Her in His head; Brahma has kept Her in His tongue. What more equality can one expect? Women are working in office. It is only for competition sake and quarreling sake, But great men have given equality to women.
Swamiji had the yoga of visiting Madurai and had Darshan of Meenakshi. Once Devendra (King of Gods, also known as 'Indra') had killed a demon name "Vruddha' when he was in 'samadhi'state of yoga. Though this demon had not harmed in any way or troubled anyone, Devendra killed him just to earn name and fame of killing demon, and just to add number to his list of killing demons. One should not kill or speak or disturb those who are in meditation or yoganidra. Even those who are asleep, one should not wake them suddenly. Nidra (sleep) is a gift. Because 'indriyas' get tired and hence they sleep to relieve the tension. It is good to sleep only during night times and not in the afternoon. Because Indra killed this demon who was in yoganidra, he became accursed, lost his 'tejas' and becoming a sinner he came down and kept wandering . One who is indulging in worship of God or chanting of His names loudly, one who is asleep, they should not be disturbed. It is a sin. If you cannot tolerate, you can leave the place at once, or keep cotton in your ears. But you should not ask them to stop or shout at them. Or you can join them chanting or worshipping internally.
Indra, wandering here and there he comes to a forest viz. Kadamba in the country of Pandya. He sees a tree. As soon as he came to the shelter of that tree, the trouble/the suffering he was having in his body left him immediately, he became alright and all sins got destroyed. He was wondering at this and looked around and he sees a Shivalinga and he prays to Shiva. Swamiji sings 'Namah Parvathi Pathaye Hara Hara Mahadeva Shambho'.
After worshipping Shiva, he builts a small temple for that Shivalinga, in gratitude for getting his sins destroyed at the sight of that Shivalinga. Then he leaves. Seven miles away from this place, a small city called'Manavur' Pandya king was ruling. A rich merchant who belonged to that Manavur, named Dhananjaya on his business tour passes through this forest and sees this special Shivalinga and wondering how this new shivalinga came there, he comes and tells about it to Pandya King. The King's name was Kulashekara. As the King was thinking of this, he had a dream and Lord Shiva gives Darshan in the dream and asks him to build a big temple for that Shivalinga in Kadambavana. The King builts a temple around it and also builds a big beautiful city and shifts his residence there itself, naming that city as Madhura. And a few days after worshipping Shiva he gets a child named "Malayadhwaja'. He gives his king dom to his son and he leaves for tapas. Malayadhwaja was a Shiva devotee as well as Shakti devotee. After sometime, as he did not have progeny, Malayadhwaja along with his wife Kanchanamala performs a Yaga. In the middle of that great yaga, a three year old girl comes out of the fire. The child was 'Ayonija' (means that which was not born out of the ***) . It had three ***. An he was afraid seeing this foreseeing something bad for the country. As he was thinking like this, he hears a "Ashareeravani" (words were heard from above the sky) "Don't fear. Whatever has taken place is for good only. You bring up this child like a man. Whatever education and training is given for a man, all such education may be given to this child.
Whoever sees this girl and when She sees the man who is to be her husband, the third *** will disappear. Everything will be auspicious. You will join the Devathas." Further nothing was heard. After sometime, since She had the eyes like fish (Meena) she was called Meenakshi. She grew to be a very beautiful young woman. Only three *** she had. She had great powers. She was a staunch Shiva devotee and worshipped Him daily. Like a man she ruled the country herself after her father's demise. She protected the country and the people herself. She goes to Himalya and visits Kailasa where she had darshan of Lord Shiva. As soon as she sees Shiva, the third *** will disappear. After the third *** disappeared, she realised that Shiva was her husband. Mother is always fulfiller of wishes. This Mother who is now in the form of Meenakshi, who has come to uplift Pandya king and is looking after the Madhura city, She requests Shiva saying that you are my husband, you are my 'pati''gati' and 'mati' (i.e. I have surrendered to you and you have to show me way). Then Shiva asks Her to leave to her city and He promised that He would come to Her city within 7 days. And as promised He goes to Madhura on the 7th day. This Shiva is called 'Sundareshwara'. He is very beautiful. Normally they say Krishna is beautiful; but in the Purana, they say Eswara, Shiva is good-looking and beautiful. They say Krishna is dark and cowherd boy (Nallavadu, gollavadu). Meenakshi is not that beautiful but her eyes fish-like eyes is very beautiful. After the Dikvijaya yatra, Meenakshi comes back and Shiva, Sundareswara comes to Madhura and the marriage of Meenakshi and Sundareswara takes place in the city of Madhura. All the Devathas were present of the marriage occasion. Vishnu Himself looks after the marriage preparation and He gives Her in marriage to Sundareswara (Lord Vishnu is the younger brother of Devi,Mother Goddess).
In the meantime, Maharshis, Patanjali and Vyghrapada also come to witness the marriage. At the time of serving the food after the marriage, these two yogis refuses to take food. Till they saw the dance in the Chidambara in the Kanaka sabha, they did not want to take food. Then Lord Shiva says that He will show the dance here itself. Then the great wonderful dance of Lord Sundareswara in the Sannidhi (presence) of Meenakshi, take place in that temple. All were happy and blissful. Then after the marriage, food in large quantities are left over. Then Meenakshi asks Shiva as t o what should be done with the left over food. Then Shiva calls one of His Gana called Kundodara. He eats all the food and he says he is still feeling hungry and wants more. For his sake, Shiva creates a river, Ganga river itself. Then Kundodara satisfies with the water of Ganga
Then one day Meenakshi's Mother expresses her wish to take bath in the 7 seas (saptha samudra). Then Shiva brings the 7 seas here itself. The Shiva says" I will call your father-in-law also and let him also have bath." The King and father of Meenakshi who had died already, was called by Lord Shiva and the King takes bath in the 7 seas and Shiva bestows 'Moksha' on him and her mother.. They both will stay here on the earth in the human form and Sundareswara also rules the Kingdom of Pandya. Lord Kumaraswamy, with his 'Amsa' is born to Meenakshi and Sundareswara, but was born as 'Ayonija' (not from the ***). He is the first progeny and carries the lineage of Pandya king. After sometime, Lord Sundareswara, merges in the Shivalinga and Meenakshi to bless all the devotees stays there in the idol form. This is the story. In the meanwhile, one Serpent, elephant and a cow come to test them. They were cursed and were transformed as 3 hills around the city of Mdhura. These three hills are called "Anemalai', "Nagamali' and "Pashumalai". So Even today Meenakshi stays there in the idol form blessing all the devotees. Swamiji sings a verse on Meenakshi:
Those who worship Mother Meenakshi, they get:
Srimatsundara Nayikam, Bhayaharam, Jnanapradam Nirmalam
Syamambam, Kamalasanarchita padam Narayanasyanujam
Veena Venu murdanga vadya rasikam nana viradambikam
Meenaksheem Pranathosmi Santhathamaham Karunyavaraam nidhim
Swamiji sings a new bhajan on Sundareswara:
Sundara Sundara Shiva Shiva
Karuna Bandhura Shiva Shiva
JAI GURU DATTA