Tirumala Tirupati Yatra, Author At Tirumala Tirupati Yatra

Sri Sthala Sayana Perumal Temple, Mahabalipuram (Divya Desams)

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Sri Sthala Sayana Perumal Temple Location & Introduction:

This temple is located approximately seventy km due south of Chennai on the shores of the Bay of Bengal in a small town called Mahabalipuram.

Click here for the temple location on Google Maps

Sri Sthala Sayana Perumal Temple Sthalapuranam

According to legend, Pundarika Maharishi wished to have ‘darshan’ of Lord Narayana as Ksheerapthinatha. So, he gathered lotus flowers for His puja. The Lord came as an elder Brahmin and asked for food. The sage gave the flowers to the elderly Brahmin and went to fetch the food.

Upon his return, he found the Lord stretched out, wearing the flowers he had given. The sage asked for a place at the Lord’s feet which was granted. Because he rested on the floor here, the Lord is called Sthala Sayana Perumal.

Sri Sthala Sayana Perumal Temple, Mahabalipuram(Divya Desams)

Special features

The Lord here is known as Sthalasayana Perumal and the Universal Mother is Nilamangai Thayar. The theertham is Pundarika Pushkarani.The unusual aspect is that the Lord is resting on the floor and Adhisesha. This is the only shrine where the Lord rests directly on the floor.

Mangalasasanam

In Irandaam Thiruvandhadhi (2251), Bhoothath Alwar says Thanjai Mamani Koil, the main temple at Srirangam, Tiruthanka, Tirumala which devotees think as the Ultimate, the Ocean of Milk, the temple at Tiru-kadal-mallai, Tirukkovilur and the temple at Tirukkudanthai surrounded by walls are all places where the Lord who shot arrows so well decided to reside in.

In Peria Thirumozhi (1088-1097), Thirumangai alwar says that the Lord who ate all the worlds and kept it in His stomach to bring it back out, who is the support of this world like a strong choral pillar, the Lord who split the mouth of Kesi who came in the form of a horse, who broke the tusk of the elephant and killed it, He who resolved the troubles of Gajendra, whom one can see in one’s hour of distress is the one who is resting in Thirukkadalmallai.

Om Namo Narayanaya!

Explore 108 Divya Desams

Nithya Kalyana Perumal Temple, Thiruvidanthai (Divya Desams)

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Nithya Kalyana Perumal Temple Location & Introduction:

Tiruvidanthai / Thiruvidanthai is a small village on the outskirts of Chennai on the shores of the Bay of Bengal about forty km due south of Chennai. The temple was built by the Pallavas with the latest additions by Cholas.

Click here for the temple location on Google Maps

Nithya Kalyana Perumal Temple Sthalapuranam

According to legend, when Hiranya stole Mother Earth and hid Her, Lord Vishnu took the form of a boar with tusks. He fought and killed the ‘asura’ and carried Her from below to restore Her position. Along the way, He gave a long discourse on various subjects including how every activity that He has created can reach him with ‘bhakti.’ He married Komalavalli here in this Desam.

Another legend is that the sage Kalava had three daughters who all wished to be married to Lord Sri Narayana. The sage came to this Desam and prayed to the Lord who agreed to marry them all one day at a time. The first daughter was Komalavalli an incarnation of Goddess Mahalakshmi. Because of this, the Lord has come to be known as ‘Nithya Kalyana Perumal’.

Nithya Kalyana Perumal Temple, Thiruvidanthai (Divya Desams)

Special features

This Desam is known by many names such as Varaha Kshetram, Nithya Kalyana Kshetram, Asura Kaala Nalloor etc. The Lord is known as ‘Sri Lakshmi Varahan and Nithyakalyana Perumal’. The Universal Mother is ‘Komalavalli Natchiyar’.

The theertham is ‘Varaha theertham’ and ‘Kalyana theertham’. The vimana is Kalyana Vimana.

Those who wish to get married should visit this shrine.

Charama Slokam

In this ‘avatar’ the Lord speaks to Bhu Devi of ways for His creations to reach Him. The ‘charama sloka’ of Sri Varaha ‘avatar’ is considered the very first instruction by the Lord on this subject. An approximate translation of the sloka is given here. It is in the first person as spoken by the Lord.

“If anyone thinks of Me, when the mind is sound (sthite manasi),with the body in good health (suswasthe shareere), and with mental and physical faculties working intact (dhaatu saamye sthite) – realizes that I am indeed the very cause of this universe (vishwaroopam), that I am without birth (ajam) – then I assure (You, Bhumi Devi) that I will remember this devotee of Mine when they are on their deathbed, lying (helplessly) like a stone or a log of wood, and personally lead them to the Supreme Abode.”

Mangalasasanam

In his Peria Thirumozhi (1108-1117), Thirumangai Alwar plays the role of the mother of the girl who is in love with the Lord and who wants his ‘Thiru-adi sambandham.’ He says my chief who resides in Tiruvidanthai.

He asks what your disposition is towards my daughter who wants to know that the ever-beautiful Mahalakshmi born of the ocean resides in your heart. For ten pasurams he describes the thoughts of the daughter (as her mother) and asks the Lord what his plans are regarding the daughter’s future.

Explore 108 Divya Desams

Immense Grace of Goddess Padmavathi Devi at Tiruchanur

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Goddess Padmavathi Devi at Tiruchanur

The temple town of Tiruchanur located at the base of Tirumala is the abode of Goddess Padmavathi Devi, the divine consort of Lord Srinivasa. To the millions of devotees pouring in from all over the world, the pilgrimage to the Seven Hills begins with the ‘darshan’ of the Devi.

Once they are showered with the blissful grace of the Divine Mother, they feel confident of approaching the Lord on the Hills. They pray to the Goddess to make their Tirumala Yatra fruitful and entreat Her to intervene on their behalf and secure the Lord’s ‘darshan’ and blessings for them.

“Sahadharmachareem sourehe
sammantiritha jagaddhitham
Anugrahamayeem vande
nithyam agnyatha nigraham”
(Yatiraja Saptati – Swami Desikan)

The prayer of Swami Desikan throws light on the significant role of the Divine Mother in protecting the world. She is the consort who is ever-present with the Almighty. She is the compassionate one who is incapable of punishing anyone. It can be said that She is the personification of benevolence.

Tiruchanur is constantly humming with daily ‘pujas’, ‘archana’ and the endless flow of the devotees. Kalyanothsavam is performed every day like on the Seven Hills and Fridays auspicious to the goddess, elaborate ‘abhishekam’ is performed.

Tiruchanur Karthika Brahmotsavam

The month of Karthika marks the day when the Goddess Padmavathi appeared in the Padma Sarovar, the temple tank. This celestial event is celebrated with an annual Brahmotsavam of ten days culminating in the Theerthavari on the sacred Panchami. On this holy ‘avatara’ day the priests invoke the bountiful grace of the Goddess for peace, prosperity and happiness to all.

This year Tiruchanur Karthika Brahmotsavam will be celebrated starting with Dwajarohanam on 28th November 2024 and concluding with the Panchami Theertham on December 6th 2024. The Gaja Vahanam special to the Goddess will be on 2nd December 2024.

Lakhs of devotees will be present to enjoy the festivities while millions who cannot be there will get blissful ‘darshan’ from their homes through the SVBC telecast. The live coverage brings beautiful visuals of the temple Rajagopuram, the glittering gold inlaid Vimanam, the gorgeous decorations, the sacred Pushkarini, the Vahana Sevas, Prabandha and the chanting of the Vedas, dance and musical performances of the devotees.

More importantly, the TV coverage gives us ‘darshan’ of the glowing form of the goddess giving a personalized special satisfaction that can’t be experienced even when we are physically present there in the big crowd.

Lord Sriman Narayana incarnates in the various ‘yugas’ in different forms and in all these incarnations His divine consort Sri Mahalakshmi also assumes suitable roles to be with Him for the welfare of the world. In the Lord’s ‘archa avatara’ as Lord Srinivasa, the divine consort was born as Akasha Rajas’s daughter Padmavathi Devi and married Lord Srinivasa.

The very name of Sri Mahalakshmi is commonly associated with worldly riches. But to understand the real significance of Her grace one must look at the eight different forms in which She is worshipped. All these are representations in iconography to explain the numerous ways in which Her abundant grace manifests.

‘Adi Lakshmi’ is the primordial form of the Goddess who is with the Almighty when He creates the entire universe which He does for Her pleasure and per Her desire. The origin of all life is from the Divya Dampatulu (Divine couple). When the Lord makes various incarnations the Goddess too takes various suitable forms to participate in all His ‘leelas’ and to protect us.

‘Dhana Lakshmi’ is the Goddess of wealth who bestows the resources needed by us for pursuing our ‘sanatana dharma.’ Taking care of the family, contributing to social and religious activities are the duties of all householders for which we pray for abundant income.

‘Dhaanya Lakshmi’ grants abundance of food grains and bountiful harvests. Food sustains all life and copious rains ensure food security and freedom from hunger and famines.

Goddess Padmavathi is presiding in the form of ‘Gaja Lakshmi’ at Tiruchanur. The resplendent, regal ‘archa moorthy’ seated on a golden lotus is worshipped by two elephants on either side. This captures the incarnation of the goddess in the Padma Sarovar, the temple tank when She was worshipped by celestial elephants with ‘abhishekam’ and floral garlands. Gaja Lakshmi is the symbol of power and strength.

‘Santhana Lakshmi’ is the form of the Divine Mother that grants the boon of good progeny. We all want our children to have good health, and character and pray that they follow traditions in the path of their elders.

The course of life in this world is rough and we face various trials and problems. To face these challenges we require mental strength and faith which is granted by ‘Dhairya Lakshmi’. The mercy of the Goddess follows us like an umbrella sheltering us from torrid heat or like a boat that sails through the turbulent sea. We are assured victory in our rightful pursuits by ‘Vijaya Lakshmi’.

There are numerous fields of knowledge and expertise necessary for our material and spiritual progress. We pray to ‘Vidya Lakshmi’ to bless us with success in all our endeavours. Let us offer obeisance to Sri Padmavathi Devi, the consort of Lord Srinivasa, who is the Mother of the Universe and is the personification of the Lord’s grace. May She bless us with the milk of spiritual wisdom!

“Samasta jananeem vande
chaitanya stanya dhayineem
Shreyaseem Srinivasasya
karunamivaroopineem”
(Daya Sathakam – Swami Desikan)

Karthika Pournami 2024

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Asatomaasadgamaya Tamasomaajyotirgamaya
Mrityorma amritamgamaya Om Shanti:Shanti: Shanti:!!

‘Lead me from untruth to truth, from darkness to light, and from death to immortality! Om! Peace! Peace! Peace!’

Karthika Pournami on on 15-11-2024

Karthika Pournami

As we can infer from the meaning, leading a person from darkness to light may be taken literally and figuratively. Leading a person from darkness to light means his fear, obscurity, uncertainty and illusion will all be put to rest by bringing him to light, which in turn brings clarity.

Figuratively, a person’s ignorance about anything is destroyed by giving him the light of true knowledge. When true knowledge or wisdom dawns, peace prevails. Thus, we find the ideas of gifting true knowledge, peace and positive vibrations are behind lighting oil/ghee lamps on the day of Karthika Pournami.

Karthika Deepam

The observance of Karthika Deepam, the Festival of Lamps, is believed to bring in new hope, prosperity, peace and happiness. Though this festival is celebrated among Hindus across the globe, in Tamil Nadu, this gains more popularity because it is considered to be one of the big festivals for Lord Kartikeya who occupies the family deity or ‘Kula Daivam’.

New earthen lamps with oil are lit on this day to ward off evil energy and usher in positivity and rays of hope. This celebration can be traced back even before the common era since we find references about this in ancient Tamil literature. This festival marks the conjunction of the Full Moon and the Krithika Star in the month of Karthik.

One may argue that any source of light i.e, a bulb or tube light may be used to remove darkness. So, what is the significance of lighting oil lamps? This may be answered based on the philosophical explanations given in our Scriptures that the oil or ghee symbolizes our ‘purva janma vaasana’ or the impressions the ‘Atma’ carries from the experiences of the previous births, both positive and negative ones and the wick represents our ego.

When the lamp is lit by the flame of spiritual knowledge, the ‘vaasanas’ get slowly burnt and exhausted and the ego too perishes along with it. Once when everything gets exhausted and complete surrender happens, a person becomes eligible for final liberation i.e., Moksha. It is also believed that the light from these oil lamps can help the souls of the deceased ancestors find their way to heaven.

Karthika Pournami 2024 — Thiruvannamalai

Moreover, during the entire month of Karthik, oil lamps are lit and kept on both sides of the main entrance gate because in this month Lord Siva is believed to shower His blessings on His devotees.

This ‘Deepam’ (Pournami) festival is celebrated with much fanfare in all temples of Lord Subrahmanya and Lord Siva. Sri Arunachaleshwara temple at Thiruvannamalai, Tamilnadu is very special because it is considered as ‘Agni sthalam,’ one of the five elements.

The other ‘pancha bhuta’ temples are Ekambareshwara temple (Earth), Jambukeswara temple (Water), Kalahasti temple (Vayu) and Chidambaram temple (Akasha) and Arunachalam temple (Agni) An interesting story is attached to the Agni ‘sthalam’ at Thiruvannamalai.

As per our Puranas, once Lord Brahma and Lord Vishnu were in an argument. They want to know who is superior. They wanted Lord Siva to act as the mediator. Lord Siva agreed and took the form of a long, brilliant beam of light extending beyond Akasha and penetrating the surface. Lord Siva laid a condition that whoever sees the head or foot of the brilliant light first is the winner and he will be treated as great.

Both of them agree. Lord Vishnu takes the form of a Varaha, a wild boar and goes down the ground, into the nether worlds to see a glimpse of Lord Siva’s foot. But midway he finds it extremely exhausting and returns unsuccessful in His mission. Lord Brahma takes the form of a swan, and flies higher and higher to see Lord Siva’s head.

In the midway, he encounters a Ketaki flower which tells him that it was adorning Lord Siva’s head and it fell from there. Lord Brahma strikes a deal with Ketaki that, when he returns and tells Lord Siva that he saw His head, Ketaki should endorse His words as a witness.

But Lord Siva finds out the truth and punishes Lord Brahma by plucking His fifth head, bans Ketaki from Lord Siva’s worship. Since all the Devas and the sages propitiated Lord Siva and requested him to continue to bless His devotees in this brilliant light form, Lord Siva agreed.

Full Moon Day is celebrated with great enthusiasm in the month of Karthik at Thiruvannamalai, There are three important ‘deepams’ lit during this festival.

Kumaralaya Deepam. It is done in Karthik month on Karthik star.
Vishnu Aalaya Deepam. This is done on Rohini star in Karthik month.
Sarvaalaya Deepam. This is done on Full Moon Day in the month of Karthik.

Slokam

The following ‘sloka’ is recited while lighting lamps at home.

Shubham karoti kalyanam
Aarogyam dhana sampada:
Shatru buddhi vinaashaya
Deepajyotir namostu te!

(I salute the brilliance of light that brings auspiciousness, prosperity, good health, abundance of wealth, and the complete destruction of the six enemies of our intellect {Kaama, Krodha, Lobha, Moha, Mada and Maatsarya}).

To say in simple words, this deepam should be lighted to annihilate evil forces, and negative energy and to usher in new hopes and positive energy.

Nagula Chavithi 2024

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Nagula Chavithi – The Worship of Snake Gods

Serpents are worshipped in the form of demi-gods by the devotees across our country twice a year. The fourth day in the month of Sravanam (Chavithi) and the month of Kartika are celebrated as Nagula Chavithi.

Nagula Chavithi 2024

The next days of these respective months are Garuda Panchami and Naga Panchami.

The worship of serpents is considered a dutiful prayer to obtain health, wealth, vitality and good children. Especially for farmers, snakes are considered their benefactors as they protect the crops from rats and other creatures. They also pray to them very reverentially to protect them from their anger in case they hurt the snakes inadvertently.

The worship of the snake gods has been amply described not only in ancient literature but also in traditional paintings, art and culture. There are two forms of adoring the snake-gods. They are prayed in the form of a statue installed in a temple, mostly under the tree or in their natural habitations called snake pits. During these festive days, devotees offer milk, eggs, a sweet made of jaggery and ‘til’ or sesame seeds to the snake gods.

They decorate the snake pits with turmeric, kumkum and flowers. The two major ‘doshas’ are attributed to the snake god when He is angry. They are Naga Dosha and Kalasarpa Dosha. It is believed if any ancestor killed the snake and its siblings, the members of his family would become childless.

Rahu represents the head of a snake and Ketu represents the tail. They are worshipped to avoid delay in the marriage of children and childbirth.

Nagula Chavithi – History

Kashyapa married two daughters of Prajapati Daksha, named Kadru and Vinata. While granting boons, he asked his wives what type of children they desired. Kadru requested her husband to get many number of valiant children. As per her wish, she became the mother of the Naga race. The names of major Nagas are Sesha, Vasuki, Takshaka, Astika and Kaaliya.

Lord Sesha also known as Adisesha formed as a bed for Lord Vishnu when the Lord takes rest in the Ocean of Milk. It is believed that he bears the universe on his thousand hoods. Whenever Lord Vishnu took incarnations of Rama to protect ‘dharma,’ Adisesha also took the form of Laxmana in Tretayuga. Vasuki is associated with Lord Shiva.

He also helped the Devatas and Asuras during the churning of the Milky Ocean. He was used as a rope to get ambrosia for immortality.

Ksheera Sagara Madhanam (Churning of the Milky Ocean) - Goddess Lakshmi

Takshaka is the valiant form of all snake gods. He was the king of Khandava Forest. In retaliation for Arjuna’s act of burning the woods, he slays his grandson. Astika is another famous snake god and is the son of Jaratkaru and Manasa. He protected the Nagas at the instance of his mother when Janamejaya conducted ‘yagna’ to destroy the entire clan of the serpents in revenge for Takshaka killing his father Parikshit.

The recital of Manasa Devi Stotram is said to ward off evil from the snakes. The great Yoga Sutras were written by Patanjali, who is the incarnation of Adisesha. They are for awakening the Kundalini Shakti through practice. The Seven Chakras represent the shape of a snake and one is said to have attained the same if one completes all the Chakras.

Nagula Chavithi – Performance of Puja

In the Skanda Purana, Lord Shiva explained to Parvathi how to perform the prayers on the day of Nagula Chavithi or Naga Panchami. The devotees have to wake up early in the morning, take a head bath and draw pictures of snakes on either side of the threshold.

They should pray to them with reverence. People also go to the snake pits, decorate them and pray to the snake gods to protect them, their children and family. It is believed that a prayer to the snake-gods gives growth in the family and the removal of diseases, especially earaches.

This is one festival which is participated by elders, children, men and women irrespective of creed and belief. One can see the gods in physical form when one worships snake gods. The snakes have more powers than human beings because they are associated with Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, Lord Subrahmanya and Mother Manasa Devi.

Nava Naga Strotram

Anantam, Vasukim, Sesam,
Padmanabham cha Kambalam |
Sankhapalam, Dhrtarastram,
Taksakam, Kaliyam tatha |

If one chants the Nava Naga Strotram, the snake-gods will be pleased and they bless the devotees with children, protect the family, remove all worries and grant success in all their efforts.

Sri Padmavati Ammavaru Brahmotsavams 2024, Tiruchanur – Majestic Festival of Devotion

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Sri Padmavati Ammavaru Brahmotsavams 2024

Tiruchanur, the divine domain of Goddess Sri Padmavati Ammavaru, is one of the highly exalted places in Andhra Pradesh. The temple of Sri Padmavati Ammavaru is situated 5 km from Tirupati town and is exclusively dedicated to Sri Padmavati Ammavaru, the consort of Lord Sri Venkateswara.

Tiruchanur Sri Padmavathi Ammavari Kartika Brahmotsavams
28-11-2024 to 06-12-2024

It attracts countless devotees who seek her blessings every day. The temple was established during the reign of the Vijayanagara kings in the 14th century, reflecting its architectural grandeur, and evoking a sense of awe and admiration.

Sri Padmavati Ammavaru, also known as Alamelu Manga, is the mother of auspiciousness, prosperity, and fertility. According to the sacred texts and tradition, the divine manifestation of the Goddess took place by emerging in a golden lotus from the ‘Padmasarovaram’, the sacred lake, surrounded by lush greenery adorned with picturesque lotus flowers.

Padmavathi Ammavaru - Tiruchanur

Karthika Brahmotsavam

This is why devotees often take holy dips in the Padmasarovaram to perform rituals and offer prayers to the Goddess as it is considered to have purifying properties and is auspicious to bathe in its waters. As described in the Padma Purana, Sri Padmavati Ammavaru rises on the Golden Lotus in the auspicious month of Karthika on Shukla Paksha Panchami when the star Uttarashada ascends.

This event is well known as the ‘Karthika Brahmotsavam’, celebrating Sri Padmavati Ammavaru’s birth, also known as Aavirbhava Dinotsavam, uniting the devotees to showcase their communal celebration and seek spiritual solace.

This temple’s sacred proceedings are practised as per the tenets of one of the most revered Agama, the Pancharatra Agama. This Agama is believed to be taught by Lord Sri Venkateswara himself to five divine personalities in five nights.

5 Personalities

The five personalities are

Ananta, the Serpent King,
Garuda, the king of Birds,
Commander in Chief Lord Vishwaksena,
Chatur Mukha Brahma and
Lord Parameshwara.

The annual Brahmotsavam unfolds over nine days, and each day is meticulously planned with an array of rituals designed to invoke divine blessings. The event commences with the ceremonial flag hoisting, known as Dwajarohana, at the Dwajastambha.

The flag is uniquely adorned with the symbol of an elephant, representing auspiciousness, deep affection, and reverence it holds for the Goddess. In many Vishnu temples, it is customary for Garuda, the divine eagle, to serve as the mount to the Lord; thus, the flag also features his emblem during the hoisting ceremony.

Hence, this symbolism enriches the ritual highlighting the endearment to the Goddess. The event proceeds further with the Ankurarpana, a ceremony of planting seeds in the divine land of Bhuma Devi for prosperity, while the deity of the Commander in Chief, Vishwaksena, is carried around the circumambulation path to make sure the event is functioning effectively.

Sri Padmavati Ammavari Brahmotsavams – Vahana Sevas

Sri Padmavati Ammavaru Brahmotsavams 2024, Tiruchanur

First Day

The very first Vahana Seva of the Brahmotsavam takes place on the evening of the first day. The Chinna Sesha Vahana, also known as Vasuki, the female serpent, is designated as the divine vehicle, marking a significant moment in the ceremony. The Vahana is embellished with intricate designs and vibrant flowers.

Second Day

On the morning of the second day, Ammavaru mounts the Pedda Sesha Vahana, the male serpent, symbolizing strength and protection. As she graces her devotees, the goddess is seen displaying her Abhaya Varada Hasta, a gesture of reassurance and blessing.

On the night of the second day, Sri Padmavati Ammavaru elegantly mounts the Hamsa Vahana, the majestic swan. Ammavaru is attired as Saraswati, the goddess of wisdom, holding a finely crafted Veena in her hand, embodying the pursuit of knowledge and enlightenment.

Third-Day

The Vahana Seva on the third day commences with the Muthyapu Pandiri Vahana, where Ammavaru is ornamented with radiant pearls that serve as Talambralu, the sacred rice traditionally used in Telugu wedding ceremonies.

In the evening, Ammavaru majestically rides the Simha Vahana, a powerful symbol of courage and might, showcasing her strength and fierce protection over her worshippers.

Fourth Day

On the morning of the fourth day, Alamelumanga transforms into the divine attire of Lord Krishna, in the Kalpavriksha Vahana, holding a sword and a Yogadanda, committing to safeguard the cows.

In the evening, Lord Hanuman is delegated as Sri Padmavati’s divine vehicle, embodying strength, devotion and loyalty.

Fifth Day

On the morning of the fifth day, the Goddess of lotus royally mounts the Pallaki, the palanquin, in her Mohini Avataram, her hair elegantly braided with an ornate design featuring Surya and Chandra, the Sun and the Moon respectively, casting a celestial glow around her.

In the evening, the cherished Gaja, or the elephant, serves as the majestic vehicle for Padmavati Ammavaru, and takes her on a stroll around the temple, signifying the blessings of abundance and sovereignty.

Sixth Day

On the sixth day of Vahana Seva, the festivities commence with the Sarvabhupala Vahana, where Ammavaru is gracefully carried aloft as she embodies the beloved daughter of the Sea and the Lord of all rivers.

Pilgrims gather to worship her on this auspicious occasion believing that their devotion can lead to the attainment of power and immense wealth.

Lord Sri Venkateswara’s vehicle, Garuda, sets out to be Ammavaru’s vahana for the evening, on the sixth day of the Vahana Seva. Garuda, known for his capability of overcoming any adversary, and serving the god in his battles against evil, is embellished with exquisite ornaments to shimmer in the temple lights.

Surya, the Sun, is the designated chariot for Ammavaru on the seventh day in the morning, radiating brilliance, energy, and vitality, and reflecting his sun rays, on the seventh day in the morning.

Similarly in the evening, Chandra, the moon, takes Ammavaru around the circumambulation path, symbolizing tranquillity, as his luminous yet calming rays soothe the devotees with serenity.

Eighth Day

The eighth day commences with Rathotsavam. During this festivity, Ammavaru’s towering chariot is studded with ornaments and decorated with flowers, and colorful silk fabrics, reflecting the splendor of Sri Padmavati.

This Ratha is surrounded by a large number of devotees to witness the procession, as the chariot is drawn through the temple streets.

As night falls, the final vahana of Sri Padmavati Ammavari Brahmotsavams is Ashwa, the divine horse. It is believed that the Ashwa had witnessed the sacred union of Lord Venkateswara and Goddess Padmavati.

Ninth Day

The ninth day of the festival, revered as the most auspicious by women, is celebrated as Panchami Teertham, also known as Chakra Snanam.

Devotees from around the globe eagerly partake in this sacred tradition, immersing themselves in the serene waters of Padmasarovaram.

This day holds special significance for worshippers, as it is believed to commemorate the miraculous emergence of Goddess Padmavati from the sacred pond on a golden lotus, marking the divine communion between the Lord and the Goddess.

Sri Padmavati Ammavaru Brahmotsavams 2024, Tiruchanur

Offerings from the Lord

The festivities of the Panchami Teertham commence early in the morning with the welcoming of the ‘Saare’, brought forth by the Ekangis, who arrive bearing exquisite gifts for the Lord’s Pattapuraani. The Saare, a royal basket, is filled with vibrant turmeric, royally scented sandalwood, fresh fruits, luxurious silk fabrics, and fragrant holy basil leaves—all of which have been lovingly applied to the Lord Himself.

The Saare holds a place of great significance during Panchami Teertham, as the holy basket is carefully balanced atop the Ekangi’s head, embodying devotion and auspiciousness. The Ekangis carry the saare from Tirumala to Alipiri along the sacred steps and take the path via the ‘Komalamma choultry’ to honour Komalamma, en route to Sri Kodanda Rama Swami Temple.

Komalamma was an ardent devotee of the Lord. Back in the day, Komalamma played a pivotal role in establishing a choultry for devotees travelling to Tirumala, ensuring that accommodation facilities were accessible and welcoming for all. This choultry used to be on the outskirts of Tirupati.

Saare to Ammavaru from Tirumala - Elephant

From here, the Ekangi rides on an elephant, bearing gifts from Srivaru in a basket filled with turmeric, vermillion, pleasantly scented sandal, Srivari Laddu, vada, appam, and jilebi. A Paricharaka sits behind him, gently swaying the flying whisk, also known as the Chamara, to preserve the fragrance of the offerings.

The elephant then comes to a halt in front of Sri Kodanda Rama Swami Temple, where they perform a Harati for the prasadam sent by the Lord before taking a stroll around the temple grounds.

The prasadam is then carried to Sri Govindaraja Temple, with the elephant following the route along Chinna Bazaar Street before descending the steps to reach the temple via Uttara Mada Street. A similar honour is offered to the elephant in front of the temple.

The elephant finally arrives at its destination, Pasupu / Turmeric Mandapam in Tiruchanur, after a majestic journey through the streets of Tirupati. The officials of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams and the archakas of the Tiruchanur Temple extend a warm welcome to the elephant outside the Pasupu Mandapam, celebrating its remarkable journey to deliver these precious presents from the Lord to the goddess.

In the past, people would grind the turmeric in this mandapam, believing it to bring prosperity and blessings into their lives. Following the Snapana Thirumanjanam of Sri Padmavati Ammavaru and the Sudarshana Chakra, Sri Shatari of the Ammavaru and Sudarshana Chakra are elegantly processioned to the Padmasarovaram.

During the auspicious moment of Abhijeet Lagna on Panchami, around noon, the archakas recite the sacred hymns from the Pancharatra Agama. They then immerse the deities in the Pushkarini, sanctifying the water. It is believed that Lord Sri Venkateswara himself comes to visit the Goddess from the Sarovaram, arriving on his Garuda Vahana.

An eagle is often seen flying around the sacred pond during the moment of Panchami Teertham, a miraculous event that continues to leave the devotees in awe. Sri Padmavati Ammavaru, revered as the mother of auspiciousness and fertility, bestows her blessings of abundance and prosperity upon her devotees.

Panchami Theertham - Tiruchanur

It is said that, Purchasing turmeric and Vermilion from Tiruchanur on this sacred occasion is believed to promote health, wealth, and overall well-being, enriching one’s life with fruitful opportunities.

Tiruchanur Sri Padmavati Ammavari Karthika Brahmotsavam culminates on the ninth evening, with the spiritually significant event, the Dwajavarohanam, marking a grand conclusion to the celebrations.

The 4 Aims of Life – Purusharthas

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Purusharthas

Every intelligent man seeks to know 2 things (a) the world around him (b) more about himself. The point is that you cannot understand the world without knowing something about yourself. At the same time you cannot know and understand about yourself excluding the world – you are part of this world.

Man has been trying to understand both. Study of the world has taken the shape of Science, and study to know himself has taken the shape of psychology. Indian thinkers did not separate the goal of life from the view of life. Your view of life matures based on what you want to achieve in your life. Your view of life leads you to attain some of your goals.

In Sanskrit, the word Artha has many meanings. In this context, it means “goal”. What is sought after by everyone is called Purushartha. Purusha in this case does not refer to a male person only. It also refers to females as well.

Purushartha here refers to Manushya artha.

In essence, we would like to discuss about the goals sought after by all human beings. What about animals and plants? Don’t they have goals? It is true that human beings have a number of features that are also found among the animals.

For example – Ahaara (food), Nidra (sleep), bhaya (fear), procreation etc. Yet, they do not possess the rare gifts such as – intellect, far sightedness, planning etc. Intellect or Buddhi is the difference. When a human being does not employ his buddhi – he is equivalent to an animal (buddhya vihina pashubhih samaana). Foresight is power.

The 4 Aims of Life – Purusharthas

Chaturvidha Purusharthas

Planning for the future is a natural consequence of Buddhi at work. For the improvement of our future, we think and we plan. We plan for both short and long-term goals to be achieved. These goals are Purusharthas.

We may have hundreds of goals to achieve in our lives. All the goals have been classified into 4 categories. They are called “Chaturvidha Purusharthas”.

Artha

So what is the first Purushartha? It is Artha. This first Purushartha starts very early in life. This word also has many meanings. In the present context, it means “security”. Security for survival. All measures that you take, which will allow you to survive come under this category.

For example – Food, Clothing, shelter, health, and wealth are all measures taken to provide you “survival”. These measures you take require planning. Planning requires foresight. Foresight is power. You then have secondary levels to provide you more security. Children, Insurances, Pensions etc.

At some stage, we pass the minimum required levels of Artha for security and start hoarding.

Kaama

The second Purushartha is “Kaama”. This refers to comfort. It is not as essential as the first Purushartha. But it is nice to have them and enjoy. Entertainment, comfort etc are all there to provide you pleasure. It is not money alone that rules the world. Pleasure is a more powerful force than property.

Sri Ramakrishna says “ Kamini and Kanchana are the two most powerful forces of ignorance” All human beings love pleasure. They seek pleasure both immediate and distant. Nature exists to be enjoyed and her capacity to entertain seems to be infinite (Bhuma). It is for this reason it is called Bhumi.

In the first Purushartha, we noticed that its usefulness lies in providing security or shelter. In this second Purushartha, men and women look for its “capacity to entertain”. In real life, pursuit of anything may be done in moderation.

Kama, when pursued without limits is dangerously corruptive – except in one case of Godlove. The process of turning lust into God-love can be done by one method only – regulating activities according to the limits set by Dharma. That takes us to the next Purushartha – Dharma.

The 4 Aims of Life – Purusharthas

Dharma

The third Purushartha is “Dharma”. Human conduct is different from the animals because it knows the difference between right and wrong. Our Rishis have told that man has a duty to natural elements, bhutas, as well as to all other creatures in the world.

We are asked to perform yagnas or sacrifices to 5 classes – Bhuta Yagna, Athithi Yagna, pitruyagna and Deva yagna. Dharma is defined as an invisible form of wealth. What do you mean by that? Some people refer to it as “ Good Fortune – Adrishta”.

Money, housing etc are visible forms of wealth. Dharma is an invisible form of wealth. Even then, this invisible form of health, Dharma, can be acquired by appropriate means. However, for acquisition, you have to start working in this present life. Since it is possible to acquire or achieve it, it is a goal.

Dharma contributes in two stages.

(1) In the first stage, it contributes to our well-being in this very life itself.
(2) Dharma will contribute to our next birth also – especially at the very early stages of our next life.

All of us know that the early stages of our life are not under our control. Parentage, wealth, social surroundings, health are not in control of the child. Dharma performed in this life will give us a good start or advantage in the early stages of our next life. We also hear now that the experiences in childhood influence our adult lives as well.

However, we are not in a position to control our childhood experiences. How my parents will bring me up, what sort of surroundings I will live under, what educational opportunities will be available to me –will not be under my control. The invisible wealth, Dharma that I collected in my previous life will decide my present childhood opportunities and experiences. The childhood experiences will determine my future adult life. So Punya sampaadana is a very important goal.

There are several ways by which you can earn Dharma Purushartha – the invisible wealth.

3 Human Goals

The three human goals (Purusharthas) – Dharma, Artha and Kaama have many things in common.

So these 3 put together are referred to as “Preyah”. So Preyah refers to Dharma + Artha + Kaama Purusharthas. Out of this the Dharma is very powerful. So people refer to the three as – Dharma, Artha and Kaama.

Moksha

The fourth Purushartha is Moksha. Now Moksha means freedom from slavery. Slavery from what? It is slavery from the Preyah – the three Purusharthas. It is an internal freedom. Why do you refer to the 3 Purusharthas as leading to slavery? Take the case of Artha Purushartha. When you do not have enough wealth or children you start feeling the lack of it. You start thinking about the “lack” continuously.

Eventually, the feeling of lack leads you to have a feeling of emptiness. You cannot get rid of it from your mind. Any kind of feeling a “lack” is slavery. Any object by virtue, of its absence that can create emptiness is capable of enslaving me. Similarly, when you have too much of it – instead of the lack you start feeling the strain. Too much money, too many houses to manage, too many children etc also puts pressure on you. This pressure you cannot get rid of. Both start preying on your mind.

When you examine it you will see continuous thinking of the Preyas lead either to a feeling of vacuum or of strain. And you become a slave of it. So some objects create problems due to their absence. And some other objects create problems due to their presence.

Some objects create problems both by their presence and absence. All these will eventually make you a “Daasa” – a slave. Quite often, man is caught up in Samsara – the problems of Artha; the limitless pursuit of Kama and confusion about Dharma drive him to desperation. He may seek to escape from society and start to retreat to forests and Ashrams.

Thus Vairagya becomes the first step towards Moksha. Nivrtti, turning from nature to spiritual nature, only comes to those who have suffered the agonies of life in the fields of Artha, Kama and Dharma. But a renunciation like this provides just freedom from the obligations of the three Purusharthas. This is not yet absolute freedom.

The next stage is Nirvana. It is attained by right thought and meditation and is helped by – ahimsa, kindliness, purity, and renunciation of the ways of this world. This is also described as Brahmanirvana. At this stage, the individual soul feels one with the Supreme Self. It is referred to as Kaivalya – meaning Freedom from all limitations.

What is essential is the quiet surrender (Saranagati) to the Supreme Spirit. Moksha is not the result of individual effort alone but a gift from Parabrahman – mere fruits of Karma alone will not lead you to Moksha but the grace of the Divine is the deciding factor.

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Complete Meaning of Sri Suktam || In praise of Goddess Maha Lakshmi

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Sri Suktam

Sooktas come under the category of Stuti Slokas. The word Sookta is from Su + Ukta meaning very well told. Sri Suktam is in praise of Goddess Maha Lakshmi – the consort of Lord Narayana. This Sooktam is a compilation of many Sooktas available in Vedas and Puranas.

Sadhaks chant this Sookta having complete faith that the grace of Maha Lakshmi will be bestowed on them.

Full Sri Suktam With Lyrics

Sri Suktam – Stanza 1

Om Hiranyavarnam Harinim suvarna rajatasrajam Chandram
Hiranmayim Lakshmim Jaatavedo ma aavah || 1 ||

O, Agni Deva (Jaataveda)! Please invoke on my behalf the Goddess Maha Lakshmi; the Goddess who shines with the complexion of gold (Hiranyavarnam), destroyer of all sins (Harinim), who wears silver and gold ornaments (suvarna rajatasrajam), blooming like the moon (Chandram), who is the embodiment of all wealth – to come here and shower her grace on me

Sri Suktam – Stanza 2

Thaam ma aavaha jatavedo Lakshmi manapagaamineem
Yasyaam hiranyam vindeyam kaamaswam purushaanaham || 2 ||

O, Agni Deva invite Maha Lakshmi by whose grace I received gold, cows, horses, friends and relatives to come here and never leave me (anapagaamineem).

Sri Suktam – Stanza 3

Ashva poorvaam radha madhyaam hasti naada prabodhineem
Shriyam devimupahvaye sreermaa devirjushatam || 3 ||

I invoke (upahvaye) Sreedevi (Shriyam devi), who has a line of horses in front (Ashva poorvaam), a series of chariots in the middle (radha madhyaam), who is heralded with the trumpeting of elephants (hasti naada prabodhineem) to come and shower her grace and reside happily within me (maa jushatam).

Sri Suktam – Stanza 4

Kaam sosmitaam hiranyaprakaram aardhram jwalantheem truptaam
tharpayantheem Padme sthtitaam padma varnaam thaam upahvaye sriyam || 4 ||

I hereby invoke (upahvaye) that Shri (Lakshmi) who always has a pleasant smile on her face (smitaam); lives in a golden fort (hiranyaprakaram), is full of mercy (aardhram), is divinely resplendent (jvalantheem), is the embodiment of absolute bliss (truptaam), grants bliss (tharpayantheem), is seated on the lotus (Padme’ sthitaam) and is beautiful like the lotus (padma varnaam).

Sri Suktam – Stanza 5

Chandram prabhasam yashasa jvalanteem shriyam loke deva jushtam udaaraam
taam padminimim sharanam aham prapadye alakshmir me nashyatam tvaam vrne || 5 ||

I take refuge at the feet of Sri Lakshmi, who is beautiful like the moon (Chandram), luminous in a divine glow (prabhasam), who is blazing with renown (yashasa jvalanteem), is adored by the gods (deva jushtam), is full of mercy (udaaraam), wears a lotus in her hand (padminim). I surrender to that Sri Devi (sharanam aham prapadye) and pray (vrne ) that she remove poverty from me (alakshmir nashyatam).

Sri Suktam – Stanza 6

Adhityavarne tapaso adhijaatho vanaspathisthava vrukshodha bilwah,
Tasya phalaani tapasa nudanthu mayaantharayascha baahya alakshmi. || 6 ||

O Devi, radiant like the Sun (Adhityavarne) you have created (adhijaatho) with your penance (tapasa) the bael tree (bilwah vruksha), considered as the king of the forest (vanaspathi).

The fruits of this tree (tasya phalani) created by you destroy the inner ignorance (maya antharayah) and the inauspicious tendencies (alakshmi) rising due to the external senses (baahya).

Sri Suktam – Stanza 7

Upaithu maam deva sakhah keerthishcha maninaa saha,
Pradhur bhoothosmi rashtresmin keerthim vruddhim dadhathu me || 7 ||

O Lakshmi, may Kubera (deva sakhah), the god of wealth and the lord of fame (keerthishcha) follow me (upaithu) with all the wealth (maninaa saha). Through your grace, I am born (pradhur bhoothah asmi) in this country (asmin rashtre) that has a heritage of wealth. Bestow (dadhathu) on me fame (keertim) and prosperity (ridhim).

Sri Suktam – Stanza 8

Kshutpipaasa malaam jyeshtaamalakshmim nashayamyaham,
Abhoothim asamrudheem cha sarvam nirnudha me grahat. || 8 ||

I shall destroy (nashayamyaham), Jyeshta Devi (Alakshmi), the elder sister to Lakshmi, the embodiment of inauspiciousness and evil such as hunger and thirst (Kshutpipaasa malaam). O Lakshmi, drive out (nirnudha) from my abode (me grahat.) all misfortunes and poverty (sarvam abhoothim asamrudheem).

Sri Suktam – Stanza 9

Gandhadwaaram duradharsham nithyapushtaam kareeshineem,
Eshwaree sarva bhoothaanam thaamehopahvaye shriyam. || 9 ||

I invoke Maha Lakshmi (thaam shriyam) who is always sweet smelling (Gandhadwaara) , who can never be defeated (duradharsham), who gives health and prosperity (nithyapushtam), who has everything (kareeshineem) and who is the goddess (eshwareem) of all beings (sarva bhoothaanam) to come and grace (upahvaye) me here.

Sri Suktam – Stanza 10

Maanasah kamamaakuthim vachah sathya masheemahi,
Pashunaam roopamannasya mayi sreeh shrayathaam yashah. || 10 ||

O Sri Devi (Sreeh)! I would like to enjoy the noble desires (Kaamam), the happiness (aakutim) that arises from within me (manasah), the truth (satyam) in my speech (vachah) and the happiness derived due to an abundance of cattle (pashunaam) and food (annasya) at my disposal. May I gain (shrayatam) fame (yashah).

Sri Suktam – Stanza 11

Maanasah kamamaakuthim vachah sathya masheemahi,
Pashunaam roopamannasya mayi sreeh shrayathaam yashah. || 11 ||

O, Maharshi Kardama (Kardama), may Maha Lakshmi, who was born as a daughter in your house (praja-bhuta), grace me with her presence (mayi sambhava). Make mother (mataram) Sri Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth (sriyam) who always adorns a garland of lotus flowers (padma-malinim), to have her abode (vasaya) forever in my family (me kule).

Sri Suktam – Stanza 12

Apah srujantu snigdháni Chiklíta vasa me grihe
Ni cha devím mátaram shriyam vásaya me kule || 12 ||

Sage Chiklita, you are the son of Sri Maha Lakshmi. Request Her to provide (srujantu) us with holy water (apah) and good food (snigdhani). Please come live (vasa) in my (me) house (grihe). Please request mother (mataram) devi (devim) Sri Devi (shriyam) to live (vasaya) in our (me’) family (kule’) forever.

Sri Suktam – Stanza 13

Aardhraam pushkarineem pushteem pingalaam padma malineem
Chandraam hiranmayeem Lakshmim jatavedo ma avah || 13 ||

O Agni deva (jatavedah), please invoke (avah) for me (ma’) Maha Lakshmi (Lakshmim), who is full of mercy (aardhraam), who is seated on a lotus (pushkarineem), who is the presiding deity for nourishment (pushteem) for all, who has a complexion of Kum Kum (pingalaam), who wears a garland of lotuses (padma malineem), pleasant like a moon (Chandram) and wears gold ornaments (hiranmayeem)

Sri Suktam – Stanza 14

Aardhraam pushkarineem pushteem pingalaam padma malineem
Chandraam hiranmayeem Lakshmim jatavedo ma avah || 14 ||

O Agni Deva (jatavedah), invoke for me (ma’ avah) the goddess Maha Lakshmi (Lakshmim) who is full of mercy (aardhram), is very solemn (karineem), carries an ensign of authority (yashtim), has a beautiful complexion (suvarnaam), is resplendent like the Sun (Suryam) and who is radiant wearing golden ornaments (hema maalineem)

Sri Suktam – Stanza 15

Thaam ma avaha jathavedo Lakshmi manapagaamineem,
Yasyaam hiranyam prabhootham gaavo dasyoswaan
vindheyam purushaanaham || 15 ||

O Agni Deva (jathavedo), be pleased to bless me (avah) so that goddess Sri Devi (thaam Lakshmi), by whose grace (yasyaam) I will get countless (prabhootham) gold (hiranyam), cattle (gaavah), maidservants (dasyah), horses (aswaan) and servants (purushaan) will never leave me (me’ anapagaamineem).

Sri Suktam – Stanza 16

Yah suchih prayatho bhoothwa juhu yaadajya manvaham
Sriyah panchadasharcham cha srikaamah satatam japeth || 16 ||

He, who (yah) prays for the grace of Sri Maha Lakshmi (srikaamah), should be pure in body (suchih), control his senses (prayatah), perform homa (juhu yaath) everyday (anvaham) with ghee (aajyam), and (cha) always (satatam) chant (japeth) the fifteen mantras (panchadasharcham) of Sri Devi (sriyah) given above.

Sri Suktam – Stanza 17

Anandah, Kardamashaiva Chikleeta ithi vishruthah,
Rishayasthe thrayah proktha swayam sreereva devatha || 17 ||

The three (thrayah) famous (vishrutha) – Ananda, Kardama, and Chikleeta are the Rishis (proktha) and Sri Maha Lakshmi herself (swayam) is the Devata for this Sookta.

Sri Suktam – Stanza 18

Padmanane padma ooru, padamakshi padamasambhave,
Twam maam bhajaswa padamakshi yena sowkhyam labhamyaham || 18 ||

O Goddess who has a face beautiful like a lotus (padmanane), thighs like a lotus (padma ooru), eyes like a lotus (padmakshi) and who was born out a lotus (padmasambhave), please grant me (twam bhajaswa) all that will you think will give me a good life.

Sri Suktam – Stanza 19

Aswa-daayee go-dayee dhana-dayee maha dhane,
Dhanam me jushathaam devi sarva kaamamscha dehi me’ || 19 ||

O Maha Lakshmi (devi), goddess of wealth (maha dhane), who grants horses (asva-daayee), cows (go-daayee)and wealth (dhana daayee) please give me (me’) that wealth (dhanam) which will give me (dehi me’) the same happiness (jushathaam) as when all your wants (sarva kaamaan) are fulfilled.

Sri Suktam – Stanza 20

Puthra, pouthra, dhanam dhaanyam hasthyaswadigave’ radham,
Prajaanaam bhavasi maataa ayushmantham karothu maam. || 20 ||

You are the mother (maataa) of all people (prajaanaam). Please grant me sons (putra), grandsons (pouthra), wealth (dhanam) and grains (dhaanyam). Also grant me elephants (hasti), horses (asvah), cows (gave’), chariots (radham) and others. Grant me a long life (ayushmantham karothu).

Sri Suktam – Stanza 21

Dhanamagnirdhanam vaayurdhanam sooryo dhanam vasuh
Dhanamindro Brhaspati varunam dhanamashnute || 21 ||

All the Devatas like Agni, Vaayu, Surya, Vasus (eight Vasus), Indra, Brhaspati, Varuna enjoy their wealth only due to your grace.

Sri Suktam – Stanza 22

Chandraabhaam Lakshmeeshaanam Sooryaabhaam shriyameeshwarim
Chandra sooryaagni varnaabham Sri Maha Lakshmi upasmahe’ || 22 ||

I pray and meditate (upasmahe) on that Sri Maha Lakshmi, who shines like the pleasant Moon (Chandraabhaam), who is the inner strength for all the Devatas (eeshaanaanam) and who is resplendent like the Sun (sooryaabham) . She is Sri devi (shriyam). She is Eeshwari. The splendour of the three Devatas Sun, Moon and the Agni is due to Sri Devi.

Sri Suktam – Stanza 23

Vainatheya somam piba somam pibatu vrthraha
Somam dhanasya somino mahyam dadhatu sominah || 23 ||

O, Garuda deva (son of Vinata, hence Vainatheya) drink soma rasa. May Indra, who killed the Vrthrasura also drink the soma rasa. I intend performing Soma yaga (sominah). Hence, please grant (dadhatu) me (mahyam) plenty of wealth (dhanasya somam).

Sri Suktam – Stanza 24

Vainatheya somam piba somam pibatu vrthraha
Somam dhanasya somino mahyam dadhatu sominah || 24 ||

The devotees who do holy deeds (krutha punyanam), never get angry (krodhah na bhavantih), are never jealous (matsaryam), never stingy (lobhah) and they will never think of bad deeds (na ashubha mati). And for the devotion to grow, they should often (sada) chant (japeth) Sri Suktam.

Sri Suktam – Stanza 25

Varshanthu te vibhavari dhivo abhrasya vidyuthah,
Rohanthu sarva beejanyava brahma dvisho jahi. || 25 ||

O goddess Sri Devi, by your grace may dark clouds accompanied with lightning (abhrasya vidyuthah) provide us rain (varshantu) day (dhivo) and night (vibhavari). May all the seeds (sarva beejaani) germinate well (apa rohantu) and grow. May all the people who abuse god (brahma dvisha) be eliminated (jahi).

Sri Suktam – Stanza 26

Padmapriye, padmini, padmahasthe, padmalaye, padmadalaayathakshi.
Viswapriye Vishnu manonukoole tat paada padmam mayi sannidatwa || 26 ||

She who is fond of the lotus flower (Padmapriye), was born in the lotus flower (padmini), holds a lotus in her hand (padmahasthe), lives in the lotus flower (padmalaye), has broad eyes like the petal of the lotus flower (padmadalaayathakshi), very dear to entire world (Viswapriye) and who endearingly conducts herself to her Lord Sri Maha Vishnu (Vishnu manonukoole) –that Sri Devi please place your (tat) lotus feet (paada padmam) on me (mayi) and grace me (sannidatwa).

Sri Suktam – Stanza 27

Ya sa padmasanastha Vipula katitati padma pathrayathakshi,
Gambheera varthanabhi sthanabhara namitha shubra vastottareeya,
Lakshmeer divya gajendrai mani gana khachithai snaapitaa hema kumbhai,
Nithyam sa padmahastha mama vasathu gruhe sarva mangalya yuktha || 27 ||

Let that Goddess Lakshmi, who (Ya) is seated on a Lotus (padma asanastha), has large (vipula) hips (katitati),

has wide eyes like the petal of the Lotus flower (padma patra aayata akshee),
has a deep navel (gambheera aavartha nabhih) ,
who is slightly bent because of her heavy busts (sthanabhara namitha),
who wears divine cloths and upper cloth (shubra vastra uttareeya), who takes bath (snaapitha) in holy waters taken in golden vessels (hema kumbhaih) studded with precious stones (mani gana khachitaih) and poured by divine elephants (divya gajendrai),
who holds a lotus flower in her hand (padma hasta) and
who possess everything auspicious (sarva mangalya yukta) – always live in my house (mama vasathu gruhe).

Sri Suktam – Stanza 28

Lakshmeem ksheera samudra raja thanayam Sri rangadhaameswareem,
Dasi bhootha samastha deva vanithaam Lokaika deepaankuraam,
Sriman manda kataksha labdha vibhava brhmendra gangaadharaam
Twaam trilokyakutumbineem sarasijaam vande Mukunda priyaam || 28 ||

Salutations (vande) to Goddess Lakshmi, who is – the source of all wealth (Lakshmeem), daughter of the king of the ocean of milk (ksheera samudra raja thanayam), is the ruling deity for the holy city of Sri Rangam (Sri rangadhaameswareem), is served by all the deva maidens (Dasi bhootha samastha deva vanithaam), who is the single source of light for the entire world (Lokaika deepaankuraam), whose mere sidelong glances have raised important deities such as Lord Brahma, Lord Shiva and Lord Indra to exalted statuses (Sriman manda kataksha labdha vibhava brhmendra gangaadharaam), for whom all the beings in the world constitute the family (trilokyakutumbineem), who arises in lotus ponds (sarasijaam), who is the beloved of Lord Mukunda (Mukunda priyam).

Sri Suktam – Stanza 29

Siddha Lakshmir moksha Lakshmir jayalakshmi saraswathi,
Sri lakshmir vara Lakshmi cha prasanna mama sarvada || 29 ||

By merely thinking about you, as Siddha Lakshmi you fulfill desires, as Moksha Lakshmi you grant Kaivalya, as Jayalakshmi you grant victory, as Sri Lakshmi you grant wealth, as Vara Lakshmi you grant boons. May you be always pleased with me.

Sri Suktam – Stanza 30

Varankushau pashamabheethi mudraam,
Karai vahantheem , Kamalasanasthaam,
Baalaarka koti prathibhaam trinethraam,
Bajehamadyam jagadeeshwareem thwaam || 30 ||

The Goddess Sri Lakshmi is Aadi Shakti. She is Jagadeeshwari. Her two palms indicate Vara and Abhaya mudras. She also holds the weapons – paasha and ankusha. She shines with the effulgence of innumerable rising Suns. I offer my prayers to the Goddess.

Sri Suktam – Stanza 31

Sarva mangala Mangalye, Shive, Sarvaartha saadhake,
Sharanye Trayambake, Devi narayani namosthuthe
narayani namosthuthe, narayani namosthuthe || 31 ||

Among the auspicious ones, you are the most auspicious (Sarva Mangala Mangalye). You are the Devi who grants everything auspicious (Shive). You grant everything desirable (Sarvaartha saadhake).

You are the deity most suitable for everyone to take refuge under(Sharanye). O Goddess Narayani with three eyes (Trayambake) I salute (namah asthu) thee (The’).

Sri Suktam – Stanza 32

Sarasijanilaye sarojahaste dhavalataraamshuka gandhamaalya shobhe’
Bhagavati Harivallabhe’ manogne tribhuvanabhootikari praseeda mahyam || 32 ||

Sri Maha Lakshmi stays on the lotus flower (Sarasijanilaye). She carries a lotus in her hand (sarojahaste), wears auspicious white cloths (dhavalatara amshuka) and a sweet-smelling garland (gandhamaalya).

O Bhgavathi, consort of Sri Maha Vishnu (Harivallabhe’), who fulfils the desires of all (manogne), who protects all the three worlds (tribhuvana bhootikari) – bless me with your grace.

Sri Suktam – Stanza 33

Om Vishnupatneem khamaam Deveem Maadhaveem Maadhavapriyaam
Vishnoh priyasakheem Deveem namaam Atchutavallabhaam || 33 ||

O Maha Lakshmi, consort of Maha Vishnu (Vishnupatneem), Bhoodevi (khamaam Deveem), you are present in the Tulasi plant (Maadhaveem). Devi is very dear to Madhava (Maadhavapriyaam), and Sri Vishnu (Vishnu priyasakheem). I salute (namaame) the Devi who is always with Sri Maha Vishnu (Atchuta vallabhaam).

Sri Suktam – Stanza 34

Om Maha Lakshmi cha vidmahe, Vishnu patnee cha dheemahi,
Thanno Lakshmi prachodayath || 34 ||

Let us know about Maha Lakshmi. For that reason let us meditate on Her, who is the consort of Sri Maha Vishnu. May Goddess Lakshmi help us in this.

Sri Suktam – Stanza 35

Sreevarchasyamaayushyamaarogya maavidhaath pavamaanam maheeyatheh
Dhanam Dhaanyam pashum bahuputralaabham shatasamvatsaram deerghamaayuh
Runa rogaadi daaridya paapa kshuda pamrutyavah
Bhaya shoka manasthaapaa nashyantu mama sarvadaa. || 35 ||

O Maha Lakshmi, bless me with Varchassu, and life with no short comings (aayushyam). May winds (pavamaanam), that will always (sarvadaa) give me good health (aarogyam), be blowing (maheeyathe).

May I get wealth (dhanam), grain (dhaanyam), cattle (pashum), many sons (bahu putra laabham) and a life (deerghamaayuh) of hundred years (shata samvatsaram).

May I not be subjected to – debts (runam) , ill health (rogam) , poverty (daaridyam), hunger (Kshuda), sudden death (apamrtuyavah), fear (bhayam), grief (shokam) and mental worries (manah taapah)

Sri Suktam – Stanza 36

Shriye jaata shriya aniryaya shriyam vayo jaritrubhyo dadhaatu
Shriyam vasaanaa amrutatwamaayan bhajanti sadyah savitaa
vidadhyoon || 36 ||

Those who approach Sri Devi (shriya aniryaya) will be blessed with abounding riches (shriye jaatah). Wealth (shriyam) and longevity (vayah jaritrubhyh) will be presented (dadhaatu). Enjoying great wealth (shriyam vasaanaa) they will reach a state that is beyond death (amrutatwamaayan). In a short time (sadyah) they will obtain (bhajanti) fame (savitaa) and victory (vidadhyoon).

Sri Suktam – Stanza 37

Shriya yevynam tatchriyaamaadadhaati
santatamruchaa vashatkrutyam sandhattam sandheeyate prajayaa
pashubhih Ya yevam vedaa || 37 ||

All that is good is due to Sri Devi Herself. Those who realise this will reach Sri Devi. One must always perform Yaaga accompanied with proper mantras. Those that do this will be blessed with the wealth of progeny and cattle.

Om Maha Lakshmi cha vidmahe, Vishnu patnee cha dheemahi,
Thanno Lakshmi prachodayath
Om Shantih, Shantih, Shantih

Let us know about Maha Lakshmi. For that reason let us meditate on Her, who is the consort of Sri Maha Vishnu. May Goddess Lakshmi help us in this

Ganapati Mantra || Lord of the Vedas – The role of Parameshwara

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Ganapati Mantra

Om Ganaanam tva Ganapatigm Havamahe
Kavim Kavinam upamasrava stamam
Jyeshtarajam Brahmanam brahmanaspatha
Aanassrnvannutibhi seeda saadanam
Maha Ganapathiye Namah Om

Meaning of Ganapati Mantra

Ganaanaam – Of all groups of Devas
tva – you
ganapatim – their leader
havaamahe – we worship
kavim – the visionary
kavinaam – of all visionaries
upama shravah – tamam who has attained great fame through various similes
jyeshtarajam – who is the most exalted who shines in the hearts of devotees
brahmanaam – of the knowers of Brahman
brahmanaspatah – O Lord of Vedas
nah – our
srnvan – listening
utibhih – with all protective means
aseeda – please sit
saadanam – at the altar of fire ritual, in our heart
Maha Ganapatiye – to the Maha Ganapati
Namah our Namaskaram – salutations

Through praises, we worship you, the Lord of Vedas, the leader of all groups of Devas, the visionary of all visionaries, the one who has great fame through various similes, the most exalted of the knowers of Brahman and the one who shines in the hearts of devotees. Listening to our prayers of praise, please sit at the altar of fire ritual in our hearts, with all protective means.

Morning Mantra – Shree Ganesh Mantra – Om Gan Ganpataye Namo Namah By Sadhana Sargam

It is customary to worship Lord Ganapati before starting any auspicious venture. It is believed that Lord Ganapati will remove any obstacles that may come in the way. For this reason, He is referred to as Lord Vigneshwara.

However, in this mantra, He is being looked upon, not just as a Devata, but as Parameshwara Himself. This is so because He is being addressed by the word Brahmanaspate – meaning “O Lord Brahma, the Veda Shastra”. The word Brahma here refers to the body of knowledge known as Vedas. And He is the Pati or Lord for it.

Hence while addressing Him as Brahmanaspate, He is being referred to as the Lord of the Vedas – the role of Parameshwara.

We worship you, Parameshwara, the Lord of Ganas, all living beings and even of the Devas – being their creator and protector

Alluring – Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra || Meaning

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Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra

Om Trayambakam Yajamahe
Sugandhim Pushtivardhanam
Urvarikam-iva Bandhanan
Mrityor Mukshiya mamrtaat

Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra - Meaning

Meaning of Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra

Sugandhim means fragrance;
Pushti vardhanam means nourishes well;
Trayambakam refers to Lord Shiva who has three eyes;
Yajamahe means we worship Him;
Urvarikamiva means even as the cucumber is severed from its bondage;
Mrityoha Bandhanath means from the clutches of death;
Mukshiya means liberated;
Ma Amritat means not to be released from immortality

We worship the three-eyed Lord (Shiva) who is fragrant and who nourishes all beings well. May He liberate us from death even as the cucumber is severed from its bondage (to the creeper). May we not be released from immortality.

The meaning of the word Mrityunjaya is – to win over death. The mantra is prescribed for gaining a victory over death.

Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra [108 times]

Victory over death does not mean that by a Japa of this mantra, we can prevent the deterioration of the body leading ultimately to death when the Self (Jiva) departs from the body death results. No one can escape death.

However, the Jiva does not die. It is immortal. It is the body that falls off. Jiva and body are two separate identities. By the grace of Eshwara, a Jnani comes to realize this difference. Realizing this difference even when alive is a true victory over death. This mantra is a prayer to the Lord to grant him this knowledge.

People believe that the Japa of this mantra before stepping out of one’s house will protect them from danger. When it is recited referring to someone who just died, it is believed, the dead person will attain Sadgati. It is also believed that reciting this mantra referring to someone who had an accidental death, will provide Atma Shanti.

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