Sri Maha Vishnu liberated Sri Bhu Devi who was kept under the ocean by the Hiranyaksha. Sri Bhu Devi was quite relieved and prayed to God to pronounce the method by which people, who were suffering in the miserable world, could be liberated from the Ocean of Samsara (just like She was liberated from the Deep Ocean).
Lord Vishnu said, āIf one surrenders to Him with deep faith, He will liberate and lead him to His permanent abode, Vaikunta, where there will be only everlasting delight and happiness.ā These words prompted Sri Bhu Devi to incarnate Herself in this world, as Sri Goda Devi otherwise called Sri Andal and propagate the theme of āsaranagatiā or self surrender through her two works of Tiruppavai and Nachiyar Tirumozhi and by Her devotional performance.
Twelve Alvars
The twelve Alwars are divine saints, blessed by the Lord, who took āavatarsā in the world to spread ābhaktiā and āsaranagatiā cults in this world. Among them, Sri Vishnu Chittar who came to be known as Periyalvar is a significant Alwar and whose works are the first ones to be incorporated in Nalayira Divya Prabandham in the Mudalayiram part.
He was born in Sri Villiputhur in the southern part of India. He was doing āMaala Kainkaryamā to the Lord in the temple of Sri Vatpatrasayee. He was looking after the garden of the temple, cultivating fragrant flowers and Tulasi in particular. By the grace of the Lord, He found a female child in the Tulasi garden and brought her to his home.
He named her Goda (a beautiful garland)and brought her up well, teaching the stories of Srimad Bhagavatam. She grew up with deep devotion to Lord Krishna. She was none other than the incarnation of Sri Bhu Devi. It may be noted that Sita Devi (incarnation of Sri Devi) was also found while tilling the ground by King Janaka to construct āyagasala.ā
Similarly, Goda Devi was also found in the Tulasi garden. Both of them were born divine. The day on which Sri Goda Devi was found and adopted as the child of Sri Periyalvar, is in the month of ADI (Tamil month corresponding to July-August) with the star POORAM (Pubba) and is considered a very auspicious day and is celebrated as ‘Tiruvadipooram’.
Sri Goda Devi / Sri Andal
Sri Goda Devi has come to be known as Sri Andal. Lord was very much pleased with Her deep devotion and even preferred the garland already worn by her. Swami Desikan opines that Sri Vishnu Chittar became Periyalvar as he offered the garland to the Lord worn by Sri Goda Devi.
Sri Andal authored two Prabandhams. In her Tiruppavai which contains thirty pasurams, she converts herself as a cowherd and expresses her love to Lord Krishna and finally surrenders to Him. This Prabandha is considered to be āsaranagatiā Veda.
In her other Prabandham Nachiyar Tirumozhi, which contains 143 pasurams, she expresses her devotion to the Lord, particularly to Archavatara (idol form) ā Srirangam, Tirumala, Azhagarkoil, Tirukudanthai, Tirukkanapuram, Madhura, Brindavan etc.
In one of the decads she reveals a dream that she had, wherein she is getting married to the Lord – called Varanamaayiram, which is chanted during every marriage function in Sri Vaishnavaite homes and Sri Vishnu temple even today.
As desired by her, Sri Periyalvar got married to Lord Sri Ranganathan of Srirangam. Sri Goda Nachiyar as she is called is enshrined in almost all Sri Vishnu temples and the Tiruvaadippooram festival is celebrated grandly. Tirukalyana Utsavam is performed for Sri Andal with the presiding deity on that day, with pomp and pleasure.
The Tiruvadipooram Utsavam in Sri Villiputtur is unique and fascinating
Srivilliputtur situated in South India is famous, for having shrines for Sri Vatapatrasayee and Sri Andal-Rangamannaar (two different temples side by side). This temple town has a reference in Sri Varaha Purana. It is also known as Varahakshetram, then Puduvai (as referred by Sri Periyalvar in his works) and Dhanvapuri etc. The temple boasts itself with a very big Gopuram.
The shrine of Sri Vatapatrasayee, the birth place of Sri Andal can be seen and worshipped. The Tiruvadipooram festival in Sri Villiputhur attracts thousands of devotees and is celebrated for about ten days. Sri Andal was grand in appearance because of different types of beautification.
The āalankaramsā of the Lord keeping His head on the lap of Sri Andal are famous in the world. During the āutsavam,ā on a particular day, five gods from nearby towns come to Srivilliputtur to join the festival in Garuda Vahana, when devotees throng there in thousands. The Rathotsavam is the most fascinating festival for which devotees come in thousands to witness and get the blessings of the divine couple Sri Andal and Sri Rangamannar.
Sri Andal blesses everyone with peace and prosperity who visits her. Andal is said to bless marital bliss between the couple and also grants quick marriage who aspire for it.
In Tirupati
In Tirupati, Sri Andal has a separate āsannidhiā in Sri Govindaraja swami temple. Here also the Tiruvadipooram festival is celebrated with religious fervour. Grand Abhishekam to Sri Andal is performed. She was adorned with new silk āvastramsā. The sacred idols of Sri Govindarajaswami and Sri Andal are taken in procession round the temple. The festival concludes with Tiruppavai Sattumurai.
Final Word
Let us invoke the blessings of Sri Goda Devi on Her Tirunakshatram. Sri Andal’s Tiruvadipooram, utsavam will start on 29th July and end with Sattumurai on 7th August this year (2024).
Dhanvantari is the God of medicine and an avatar of Lord Vishnu. He is mentioned in the Puranas as the God of Ayurveda. He, during the churning of the ocean, arose from the ocean of milk with the nectar of immortality. People will pray to Dhanvantari seeking blessings, especially on Dhanteras or Dhanvantari Trayodasi.
The Indian Government has declared Dhanvantari Trayodasi as āNational Ayurveda Dayā.
The word Dhanvantari affords different interpretations-
The word āDhanvanā means a ādesertā (compared to Rigveda āDhanvancharaā means he who moves in a desert).
There is a mantra in the veda- ‘Dhanvaan yiva prapaasi’- āOh Lord, you are like the place where water is distributed to travellers in a desertā. Thus, Dhanvantari the incarnation of Lord Vishnu with a pot of nectar in his hand is like āPrapaaā (water spot) in the desert of worldly existence.
In Ramayana (Balakanda, 45th Sarga) described as a divine being who emerged from the milky ocean after a churning of 1000 years. He carried āKamandalā (water pitcher) in one hand.
Description of different references available on Lord Dhanvantri.
THE FIRST DHANVANTARI
Gods repeatedly defeated and killed by their cousins, the demons, approached Lord Vishnu, seeking the boon of rejuvenation and the gift of immortality. He then directed them to churn the primaeval ocean in which were hidden the secrets of life and death.
The Gods sought the help of the demons, to whom they promised part of the result with Vasuki as the rope and Mount Mandara as the churning rod, they churned the ocean till it yielded several valuable things.
Apsaras – various divine nymphs like Rambha, Menaka etc., who chose the Gandharvas as their companions,
Varuni – taken by the Asuras (She appeared dishevelled and argumentative),
Airavata,
Uchhaishravas – the divine seven-headed horse.
Three valuables were also produced
Kausthuba -the most valuable gem in the world, worn by Lord Vishnu.
Parijatha ā Divine flowering tree with blossoms that never fade taken to Indralokam.
Shaaranga ā Powerful bow given to Lord Vishnu.
Chandra – moon which adorned lord Shivaās head. Halahala – poison swallowed by lord Shiva etc.
Finally, came Dhanvantari the divine physician, holding the pitcher of Amritha – the elixir of life that could bestow immortality.
The Harivamsa Purana described him as prosperous-looking and says that after emerging from the milky ocean, he stood worshipping Lord Vishnu. Vishnu named him Abja. Then he bowed down to Vishnu and said, āO Lord, I am your son. Please give me a share of the sacrifices to me. Vishnu replied āPortions of sacrifices have already been allotted.
Since you were born after the celestials, you cannot be considered as one of them. You will be born in the world of humans and then you will become a celebrity. In your second life, which will be in the Dvapara Yuga, even from the time of your conception, you will have various occult powers. You will be born as God – incarnate. You will compose works on Ayurveda which will be well known in all parts of the worldā.
King Dhanva
In the Dvaparayuga, there was a king called Dhanva in the family of the rulers of Kasi. He did not have children for a long time. He performed penance and propitiated Abja (another name for Dhanvantari). Pleased by his austerities, Abja was born as his son. Dhanva named him Dhanvantari. Dhanvantari taught Ayurveda in parts, to eight disciples. To him were born Ketuman, Bhimartha and Divodasa.
There is a story in some Puranas connecting Dhanvantari with Parikshit, the grandson of the Pandavas when Takshaka wanted to bite Parikshit and kill him, a specialist in treating poisonous bites rushed to save the king. But Takshaka bribed and sent him back. It is said that the doctor thus sent back was Dhanvantari. But other references identify him with Kashyapa.
Dhanvantari and Manasa Devi
The Brahma Vaivarta Purana (Krishnajanma Khanda) has an interesting story connecting Dhanvantari with Manasa Devi, a serpent goddess. Once Dhanvantari was going to Kailasa along with his disciples. On the way, Takshaka hissed and spat venom. Irritated, one of the disciples of Dhanvantari boldly plucked the diamond from the head of Takshaka and threw it on the ground.
Hearing about this, Vasuki, the king of serpents, threatened Dhanvantari with thousands of serpents under the leadership of Drona, Pundarika and Dhananjaya. The poisonous breath of these snakes made the disciples of Dhanvantari Swoon. However, Dhanvantari made all of them recover with powerful medicines and in turn, sent all the serpents to a swoon.
When Vasuki came to know about this, he next sent the serpent maid Manasa Devi, a disciple of Lord Siva to face Dhanvantari. Manasa devi also made all the disciples of Dhanvantari swoon. But Dhanvantari proved more than a match for her. He brought back his disciples to normal with his powerful medicines. When Manasa Devi realized that she couldnāt harm Dhanvantari or his disciples with her poison, she took trisula which was given by Lord Shiva and aimed at Dhanvantari.
At this point, Shiva and Brahma appeared and calmed down everyone and sent them away. According to some other works, Dhanvantari was born as Divodasa, king of Kasi. He became famous as Kasiraja and composed many texts on Ayurveda. Glorification of these works is to be found in the Agni Purana and the works of Kasirajaās disciple Sushrutha.
Smitamatra artinasanah
The Bhagavata Purana refers to Dhanvantari as āSmitamatra artinasanahā (one who destroys all sufferings even when remembered). Dhanvantari, Divodasa, and Kasiraja are names of the same person who is āthe first God and who freed the other Gods from old age, diseases and deathā.
Dhanvantari and Kumbhamela
Episodes are connecting Dhanvantari with the Kumbhamela river festival, which takes place once in 12 years at four different places ā Haridwar, Allahabad, Nasik and Ujjain. As Dhanvantari emerged with the pot containing nectar in his palms, a great fight took place between Gods and demons to wrest the pitcher from his Hands. During the fierce battle that took place between Gods and demons to wrest the pitcher from his Hands.
During the fierce battle that took place in the sky, a few drops of nectar fell in the four places referred to. Hence these places became sacred. Kumbhamelas are held at these places to commemorate divine events. Devotees throng to these places in tens of thousands to purify and rejuvenate themselves with the waters, which are supposed to have within them the power of Amrita.
Dhanvantari Nighantu
Dhanvantari appears to have been an actual historical person, although his precise identity is hard, to be ascertained. While Dhanvantari is not credited with any medical treatise of his own, in the early accounts, there is a voluminous glossary and material medica known as āDhanvantari Nighantuā.
Even as there is the Hippocrates oath for allopathy doctors. So is there a Dhanvantari oath for Ayurvedic practitioners. This work is considered the most ancient of all medical glossaries available. The original work is said to have been in three recessions and the present version may have been based on one of them.
This text in six sections deals with 373 medicinal substances, their names and synonyms and a brief description of their properties.
The Sanctum Sanctorum ‘Garbhalayam’ is a place of Godās presence. It is a holy place, sacred, spiritualised with Vedic Mantras Vibration. The Vibration inside the Sanctum Sanctorum is more effective and spreads unseen rays of Godās mercy. The sacramental vibration kindles the inner nerve of the human body to invigorate spiritual communion with the Lord in the Garbhalayam.
Eyes are to be opened to see the beautiful Lord in His merciful form without shouting or speaking to others.
In the temple, devotees should not allowed to boast of themselves or talk. As per Saraswathi Rahasyopanishad, it is a leinous crime. Simplicity is to be followed. A devotee should tie the upper cloth to his waist and behave like a servant of God. Every mantra in the temple uttered has to reach Saraswati Devi.
Any fault or wrongly spelt of the mantra will have dire consequences. Only those Gods inside or in the corridor are to be prayed inside the temple. Namaskaram with folded hands to be done to the Acharyas (preceptors) and other prostrations are not to be done.
The prasadam given in the temple is to be eaten with Devotion and fear. It should not be taken in a lump sum to home and eat as the prasadam effect will be lost.
The parasara samhita says that devotees in the temple must behave with high integrity and honesty lest they will be thrown into Hell along with all their family members.
Powerful Place of God
The Garbhalaya or Sanctum Sanctorum is considered the powerful place of God. The Lord is consecrated with powerful Vedic mantras as per Agama Sastra. Due to the Vedic chants and rituals, the place will be ever vibrating within that area.
The moolavarlu or the main Deity in the form of a statue will be seen predominantly with a good height, Compared to other idols. The purpose was to show the prominence and importance of the Lord. Lord Venkateswara is seen as gigantic and is seen from a distance also by the devotees. Even then His darshan is more attractive.
Pedestal Lamps
The Garbhalaya of Lord Srinivasa is so well constructed that the deity is seen from 100 mts. There are lamps hung on either side and two big Akhanda (Pedestal lamps) located on both sides with thick wicks dipped in ghee. The light from the lamps focuses on the Lord and the effulgent Lord with His original light gives darshan to the devotees.
The right hand palm shows down the lotus feet in a way to salvation and the left hand at the waist assures the devotees that they will be protected by Him and will lead them to Sri Vaikuntam. The right hand palm is called as Vaikunta Hastam and the left hand as Kati Hastam.
Moreover, the Divine mother Sri Lakshmi who is inseparably present with the Divinity in the Garbhalaya occupying the chest of Lord Srinivasa could mediate or bring about the Samyoga Sambandhe with the Divine. So the Lord in the bewitching position in the Garbhalaya along with Goddess could provide all that is asked by the Devotee.
Sri Srinivasa is supposed to be the Kaliyuga pratyaksha Daivam. His abode Tirumala is worshipped by many sages, saints and Acharyas.
Kulasekhara padi
Kulasekhara Alwar a great king cum Bhakta of Lord Srinivasa eulogizes the Lord in his Perumal Tirumozhi that he (Alwar) may be born as a Fish or a stone or anything in Tirumala and finally prays that he may be allowed to see the ācoral lipsā of the Lord in the Sanctum Sanctorum lying at a step to His Garbhalaya. Even today the step at Garbhalaya is called as Kulasekhara padi.
The Archakas, Jeers, Acharya Purushas and other Paricharakas fold their hands and enter the Garbhalaya by crossing it and not putting their feet as the belief that Kulasekhara Alwar is lying there at the doorstep of Garbhalaya and enjoying the smiling face of Lord Srinivasa who has coral lips.
A look at the Lord is considered as most happy event for the devotee. A glimpse is enough for him to come again and again to the abode of the Lord. Crossing all barriers and reaching the Lordās Garbhalaya to have His darshan is the most important to a devotee.
When he looks at the Lord, the devotee chants govinda govinda and forgets his tale of vows immediately. The ecstasy experienced by him is inexplicable.
Naga Chathurthi or Garuda Panchami is one of the most significant festivals of the Hindus. It is celebrated to commemorate the birth of Lord Garuda, an ardent devotee and the divine vehicle of Lord Vishnu.
On Sravana suddha Panchami, Garuda Panchamiis being performed.
Naga Chathurthi is a very ancient festival and women observe the day as a ritualistic day by observing fast and praying for the prosperity and welfare of their children.
It is a common sight to see the icons of Sesha Naag in a slab form under the tree āAsvatthaā in all the temples of Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva worshipped by women. Devotees feed the snakes with milk, yoghurt and honey through the opening of the ant hill and also worship it as well as circumambulate it.
During the Brahmotsavams in Tirumala, Malayappa Swami and His Consorts are taken in procession on Sesha and Garuda. On the day of Naga Chathurthi, snakes or their idols or their pictures are honoured and worshipped as they preserve environmental balance and protection. According to mythology, ploughing fields are forbidden on the auspicious occasion to save the snakes and their progeny.
Periya Thiruvadi
On the auspicious day of Garuda Panchami Sri Garudalwar, who is also called with the name āPeriya Thiruvadiā is worshipped with devotion and piety. This worship is done by women for the betterment of their children for their bravery and boldness.
The newly-married couples perform their worship for their bright and happy married life.
Lord Vishnu has Adisesha as his couch and Garuda its arch enemy as his vehicle. It shows that Lord Vishnu is the Lord of Balance and Harmony which is an essential quality for one responsible for sustaining the multifarious universe. He is described as Vishnuratha, Amritaharana, Suvarna-kaya, Gaganeswara, Rasaayana, Pakshiraaja Uragaasana and Saalmalistha. In the Rigveda, Lord Garuda is known as Tarkshya.
In the X chapter of the Gita, Lord Krishna enumerates His effulgent existence in the forms of various living and non-living beings in the creation at the battlefield of Kurukshetra.
(Of Nagas I am Anantha. Of Water-Gods, I am Varuna. Of the ancestors, I am Aryama and of those who punish and reward I am Yama).
He remarks: Prahladascasmi daityanam, Kalahkalayatamaham ‘Mrganam ca mrgendroā ham vainateyasca pakshinam// (10-30) (Of demonsā progeny, I am Prahlada. Of calculators, I am time. Of animals, I am the lion and of birds, Garuda.)
I bow to Lord Garuda, the One with the beautiful wings, whose limbs are adorned by the mighty serpents, who he has conquered in battle. I bow to the One who is forever in the devotion of Lord Vishnu. He is as adept as the Mandara Mountain, in churning the ocean of the Vedas, capturing the very essence of their wisdom.
Lord Vishnu on Adisesha
Lord Vishnu reclining on Adisesha with closed lids is a common scene in many Hindu Temples. He is also called Lord Sesha-sayee, Lord Padmanaabha and Lord Ranganaatha. According to the Mahabharata, Lord Adisesha, who is Omnipresent and Eternal, holds the entire world on his head.
He is also identified with the firstborn child of Kasyapa the son of Marichi by Kadruva the daughter of Daksha Prajapati. Kadruva gave birth to one thousand serpents of which Adisesha was the eldest.
The other significant children are
Vaasuki,
Airaavata,
Takshaka,
Kaarkootaka,
Kateeya,
Kalmaasha,
Nahusha,
Kunjara,
Kumuda and
Kumudaaksha.
The word Ananta means endless or infinite and it is one of the names of Lord Vishnu. In Kukke Subrahmanya Swami temple in Karnataka, Lord Subrahmanya is worshipped as Lord of all Serpents. As the legend goes when Vaasuki and other serpents were threatened by Lord Garuda they sought refuge under Lord Subhramanya.
Before starting the worship on Naga Chathurthi day, it is customary to remember all the divine serpents celebrated in the Puranas and worship them with obeisance.
The two shadows of the āgrahasā namely Rahu and Ketu are often represented as snakes. They have a huge influence on the mind.
To achieve Moksha one has first to stabilize oneās mind properly. Naga Chathurthi Pooja is aimed at reaching this goal. It is on Sravana Sukla Panchami Garuda brought the pot of Nectar after a great struggle to release his mother with a great fight risking his life. This day is a day of celebration of affection between a mother and her child.
It is the celebration of the bond between a mother and a child. Naga Chathurthi or GarudaPanchami is observed with reverence and piety by married women for the better health and future of their children. They pray to Lord Garuda to make their children as bold, strong and sharp as Garuda.
This Worship is observed by newly-wed couples for their married bliss and prosperous life. If any Naga Dosham is found for any of the family members, it is believed that the Dosham will get vanished if the Garuda Panchami vratam is to be performed.
Garuda Vahana seva
Garuda Vahanaseva to Sri Venkateswara Swami is more special among all the Vahanasevas performed during Tirumala Srivari Brahmotsavam. Every month on the Poornima day, Garuda Vahana Seva will be performed to Sri Malayappa Swami. Lord will come out in a procession in Mada streets on this day to bless the devotees.
Let the devotees be blessed by the Nagas and Garuda in their lives to attain spiritual bliss and salvation.
India is a country which is known for its rich Hindu culture and tradition. To sing the glory of God, as a link between God and Man, as houses of worship, as structures for religious and spiritual activities, human throughout history have created a space for the divine. The temples are not just immensely architectural wonders, itās a science.
Every single face of it ā from the size of the idols to the directions and sanctum ā Yes! The temple architecture is a highly developed science. They are the places of immense spiritual strength.
Location and Structure of a temple
The Energy Centers
A look into the ancient past and its temple reveals the fundamental science and purpose behind temple building. Far from being places of worship, temples were created as powerful places where an individual could imbibe the enshrined energies. Most temples were created to address a particular aspect of life and were thus consecrated to activate one or two particular chakras, the main energy centres of the human system.
Scientific analysis has today proven that these temples were built over areas of maximum positive energy. The Moolastanam (centre point) of the Garbhagriha was built at the spot where energy is maximum. The idol was placed and the Garbhagriha was built around it.
This point indicated the place of maximum positive energy. The main deity is often complemented by one or more minor deities carefully positioned along the path of approach to the main deity.
Looking at these structures it is apparent that the temples were built in a certain pattern, certain understanding and purpose, catering to the needs of the individual and the society.
The metal plate beneath the idol
In most of the temples, we find that the God statue is placed on a copper plate. These copper plates with Vedic inscriptions capable of absorbing and radiating energy, i.e. it absorbs the earth’s magnetic waves and radiating it to the surroundings. When a person visits a temple and walks around the parikrama in the clockwise direction, they come within the radius of this magnetic field thereby imbibing a lot of positive energy.
This is a very slow process and a regular visitor will eventually start feeling the positive vibes. The result is that the visit to the temple rejuvenates the body, mind and soul.
The logic behind idol worship
Deities work as your focal point. In silence, your thoughts have tremendous potential to become reality. This is why people say, āMy prayers have come trueā. Indeed, every prayer has the potential to come true provided you pray in deep awareness. If you would notice, in a temple, the chamber of God is closed on three sides. This increases the effect of all energies. The lamp that is lit radiates heat energy and provides light inside the sanctum to the priests.
The ringing of the bells and the chanting of the Mantras takes a devotee into a trance. When done in groups, this helps people forget personal problems for a while and relieve their stress. The fragrance from the flowers and the burning of the camphor give out the chemical energy that creates a good aura.
The effect of all these energies is supplemented by the positive energy from the idol, the copper plates and the utensils used while worshipping God. When people go to a temple for evening Aartis and when the doors open, the positive energy gushes out onto everyone present there.
Activation of Senses
The five senses of the human body are Hearing, Seeing, Touch, Taste and Smell. The positive energy in the temple is absorbed properly only if you ensure that all five senses are activated in your body while you are in the temple.
Ringing the temple bell – Hearing sense is activated.
A temple bell is another scientific phenomenon; it is not just ordinary metal. It is made of various metals including cadmium, lead, copper, zinc, nickel, chromium, manganese etc. The proportion at which each one of them mixed is the real science behind the bell. Each of these bells is made to produce such a distinct sound that it can create unity of your left and right brain.
The magic of temple bells
The moment you ring the bell, it produces a sharp but lasting sound that lasts for a minimum of seven seconds in echo mode good enough to touch your seven healing centers or chakras in your body. The moment the bell sounds your brain is emptied of all thoughts. Invariably you will enter a state of trans where you are very receptive.
Lighting Camphor ā Seeing sense is activated
The inner core of the temple is usually dark where the idol is placed. You usually close your eyes to pray and when you open your eyes you should see the camphor which is lit to give Aarthi in front of the idol. This light seen inside the dark activates your sight senses. The other reason for lighting the camphor is for the idol to absorb the heat and vibrate within the chamber for a certain period.
Taking Aarthi ā Touch sense is activated
When you take the Aarthi, you put your hands over the camphor flames and then touch the eyes, your touch sense gets activated. You will also feel relaxed when you touch the eyes with the mild heat that you absorb from the aarthi.
Offering flowers ā Smell sense activated
Flower is good to see, spreads a good fragrance, very soft to touch, the nectar given by flower pleases the tongue, and this combination is perfect for using at the temple. Only specific flowers are used for offering to God like rose petals, jasmine, lillies etc. amongst them fragrance is more important.
The fragrance of the flower, Camphor and the incense sticks all together have a strong essence to keep your smell sense activated and pleasant giving calmness to the mind.
Teertham ā Taste sense activated
āTeerthamāā, the holy water used for theertham is sacred. The ingredients used in the theertham are Cardamom, “Karpura” (Benzoin), saffron, “Tulsi” (Holy Basil), Clove, etc.
Washing the idol is to charge the water with the magnetic radiations thus increasing its medicinal value. The theertham is stored in silver or copper vessel. Three spoons of this holy water are distributed to devotees. Again, this water is mainly a source of magneto-therapy. Besides, the clove essence protects one from tooth decay, the saffron & āāTulsiāā leafās protects one from common cold and cough, and cardamom and āāPachha Karpuramāā (benzoin), act as mouth fresheners.
It is proved that āāTheerthamāā is a very good blood purifier, as it is highly energized. Hence it is given as āāprasadamāā to the devotees. This is a source of positive energy and when we drink the holy Teertham our taste sense is activated.
Sipping water 3 times is to clean the body, clean the soul and for salvation.
Teertham will be prepared in a vessel which is made with Copper or Silver or Brass.
Temples related to Lord Vishnu, Tulasi Teertham (Water mixed with Holy Basil Leaves) will be given to devotees.
Temples related to Lord Shankar, Maredu Teertham be given to devotees.
Temples related to other deities, water mixed with Cardamom, Cloves, and edible camphor will be given as Teertham to devotees.
Mostly all the temples will prepare Panchamrut (Made of Milk, Yoghurt, Honey, Sugar candy and Ghee in equal amounts) and will be given as Teertham in special occasions.
How to take Teertham?
The right palm should be bent and should resemble a cow’s ear.
The index finger should be bent to touch the thumb. g Left palm with a piece of cloth should be under the right palm for support.
Teertham should be taken 3times.
Before sipping you should take the right palm with Teertham near both eyes and sip in a sitting posture.
Interesting Facts
Ancient people used to drink water from Copper vessels as the metal can kill bacteria and viruses in water. Nowadays people are following ancient methods of keeping water overnight in a copper vessel and consuming it in the early morning.
Scientific Reasons
Water stored in metals like copper, brass or silver will decrease the heat in the body and help the body absorb essential salts and nutrients. Copper is a vital nutrient for a body in the production of blood along with Iron.
The holy basil leaves used in theertham act as a tonic that fights against fever, cold, cough, sore throat, respiratory disorders, kidney stones, heart disorders, stress, mouth infections, insect bites, headaches, skin and tooth disorders. It also acts as a nerve tonic to sharpen the memory.
The Beal Leaves in Teertham can cure many health problems such as Stomach ulcers, control diabetes and cholesterol levels, act as anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory, relieve constipation, and relieve diarrhoea and dysentery.
The holy water mixed with Cardamom, Cloves, and edible camphor helps in digestion, detoxifies the body, controls cold, flu, cancer and blood pressure, acts as antiinflammatory, relieves tooth pains & respiratory infections, cures nervous disorders, and fights against epilepsy.
Panchamrut mixture nourishes the body increases strength, it boosts physical stamina, intelligence, grasping power, creative abilities, improves skin color etc.
Blowing the Conch
The sound from the conch is associated with the sacred syllable āOmā which is believed to be the first sound of creation. The Shankha or conch marks the beginning of any good work. The sound of the conch is believed to be the purest form of sound which ushers in freshness and new hope.
This gets more powerful with the positive energy radiated in the temples and hence has amazing impacts on the devotees.
Join hands in prayer during a puja
It is believed that joining both hands such that all the tips of the fingers are touching each other activates certain pressure points in the body releasing positive energy.
Pradakshina Around the Temple
We must do pradhakshina around the temple. The chanting of mantras, slokas creates the positive energies, these energies are absorbed by the floor around the temple. When you do the Pradhakshina (circumambulation)at this point of time, you tend to absorb all the positive vibrations. When we think positively/ make a wish and pray the positive thoughts mingle with the positive vibrations and our wishes get fulfilled.
Applying Tilak/Kumkum
On the forehead, between the two eyebrows, is a spot that is considered as a major nerve point in the human body since ancient times. The Tilak is believed to prevent the loss of āenergyā, the red āKumkumā between the eyebrows is said to retain energy in the human body and control the various levels of concentration.
While applying Kumkum the points on the mid-brow region and Agnyachakra are automatically pressed. This also facilitates the blood supply to the facial muscles.
Cleanliness
It has been our idea since the beginning that,ā Cleanliness is Godliness.ā and one must have to be clean before entering to a sacred place.Surely one cannot claim that while performing his daily job he is perfectly clean; be it winter or summer. As per our (Indian) ancient rituals bathing is very important thing and comes first before doing everything as like eating breakfast and going office etc.
But bathing in our regular routine is having very good effects on our own body as after bathing you feel fresh,it makes your body clean and healthy. Below are a few reasons why we must bath and clean ourselves physically before going to temple.The temple is a very sacred place filled with full of spiritual energies and positive vibrations.
When our body is clean and pure, the pores open and are ready to absorb the energies. A clean and fresh body can feel the spiritual energy in the temple. We can feel the spiritual power, the cosmic energy, and the presence of supreme power when we worship the almighty with devoted heart, mind and soul.
No footwear inside the temple
Temples are places that contain pure vibrations of magnetic and electric fields with positive energy. In the olden days, the temples were built in such a way that the floor at the center of the temple was a good conductor of positive vibrations allowing them to pass through our feet to the body.
Hence it is necessary to walk barefoot while you enter the temple. Another reason is shoes and slippers are used everywhere hence they tend to get all the impurities like dirt, germs etc. which will spoil the pure environment of the temple and is a source of negative energy.
The dress code inside the temple
Nowadays the people are more attracted towards the western culture and habits. People roam around wearing Western dresses. However, the Dress code is very important while we visit sacred places. When we go to the temple, the mind must be calm and free from bad thoughts or negative feelings. So, we must wear traditional dress while we visit the temple.
The mind should be in control with good thoughts, focusing only on the spiritual power, so we attain the real fruit of visiting the temple. Men must wear a dhoti and upper vastram or shirt. Women should wear traditional dress like saree, half saree, Punjabi dress with dupatta.
In some temples, it is a practice that, men should enter the temple without a shirt, so the body absorbs all the positive energies. Women usually wear more jewels while visiting the temples. The jewels absorb maximum positive energies in the temple.
Dress code to be followed while visiting Tirumala Temple
Women should tie their hair before going to the temple
When we go to the temple, the mind must be calm and free from bad thoughts or negative feelings. Because the purpose of prayer is to get closer to God, when we go to the temple, we must be clean, dress properly and be of pure intentions. Women should tie up their hair up before entering a temple because loose hair is associated with chaotic mystical energies.
There is the story of the oath of Draupadi, the wife of the five Pandava brothers, heroes of the Hindu epic Mahabharata. Draupadi has been assaulted and shamed by the wicked Dushyasana and dragged by her hair. She swears that she will not comb and tie up her hair until it is washed with the blood of Dushyasana. Thus, untied hair is associated with anger or resentment, an unruly mental state not appropriate for entering a holy site.
There is another explanation for tying the hair, meaning to ācontrol the mindā. The human mind is expected to control the senses. All things result from thought. Thus, controlling the mind is essential when going to a holy place.
One more reason why women should tie their hair. Most of the time as we take a bath and visit the temple, the hair will be wet. When the wet hair is not tied at the ends, the water droplets will fall onto the floor in the temple.
When someone stamps the water dripped off from the hair this will lead to doshas. Also, nowadays most women have hair fall problems. The strands of the hair should not fall on the floor, as they are associated with chaotic mystical energies. So the hair must be knotted at the ends while visiting the temple.
Actions to be performed while visiting Temple
Most of us go to the temple in order to take darshan (viewing) of a Deity. Did you know that we can derive maximum benefit from the darshan if we were to take note of some actions which should be performed as prescribed by Hindu Dharma while visiting a Temple? There is a science underlying most of these actions. These actions that should be performed while visiting a Temple are listed in the article below.
Before leaving for a Temple
āO ____ (Name of the Deity), only due to the inspiration provided by you, I am able to come for your darshan. Let me have your darshan with bhava (Spiritual emotion).ā
Gratitude to be expressed after reaching the temple
āO ____ (Name of the Deity), you only have given me the opportunity to have your darshan; hence, I express gratitude at your Holy feet.ā
Actions required to be performed before entering a temple
Leather objects worn should be removed and kept aside.
Footwear like shoes and sandals should not be worn inside the temple premises. If footwear is to be removed inside the premises or outside the temple, then it should be removed to the right side of the Deity.
– If there is a facility in the temple, feet should be washed before entering the main temple premises.
Do not cover your neck with a cloth.
If there is a custom of removing the upper body garment (like a shirt) for males before entering a temple, then it should be followed. (This may not appear practical, yet the custom is followed to retain the sattvikta of the temple).
Pay obeisance to the main entrance door and Dwajastambam (Sentinel flag) of the temple.
– While entering the temple pray that ā āO ____ (Name of the Deity), let my mind not wander, let it concentrate on chanting. Through your grace, let me be able to absorb maximum of the sattvikta present here.ā
āO ____ (Name of the Deity), it is because of your grace that I am entering the temple. Let me be blessed with your darshan. Let there be an improvement in my chanting. Let me be able to avail of the sattvikta present there.ā
Once inside the temple premises, have a darshan of the kalash (Dome of a temple) of the temple and pay obeisance to it.
While standing in a queue, avoid chatting with the people around. If the temple is crowded, form a queue. While proceeding for darshan keep chanting. This will help imbibe sattvikta to a greater extent.
Proceeding towards the mandapam (Hall in a temple)
While proceeding towards the mandapam (Hall), hold the hands in Namaskar-mudra (Both hands joined away from the body).
While stepping inside the sabha mandapa pray thus āO Deity, let me benefit from the Chaitanya (Divine consciousness) being emitted by your Idol to the utmostā.
At that time, the bhava should be as if we are going to visit our revered Deity and that Deity is looking at us.
Entering the Temple
Climbing the steps of a temple
While climbing the steps of a temple, touch the steps with the fingers of the right hand and then touch that hand to the centre part of the head. So that the spiritual energy in the midhead will be activated with spiritual power.
Proceeding from the mandapam towards the garbhagruha (Sanctum Sanctorum of a temple)
Walk along the left side of the mandapam towards the garbhagruha (Sanctum Sanctorum).
If you have to stand in a queue for the darshan, then instead of chatting with the people around, concentrate on chanting the Lord’s naamaas.
Actions to be performed before having darshan of the Deity
As far as possible, avoid ringing the bell. If you wish to ring it, do so in a very low tone.
Entering a garbhagruha is mostly prohibited. However, in some temples, it is permitted. At such times, before entering the garbhagruha we should do Namaskar to Sri Ganapati.
Actions to be performed while having darshan of the Deityās Idol
In the first stage, focus your attention at the feet of the Idol and with the emotion of complete surrender, pray for the dissolution of the ego. In the second stage, concentrate at the chest level of the Idol, and pray intensely. In the third and the last stage, concentrate on the eyes of the Deity and store the Deityās image in your eyes.
Pay obeisance to the Deity with an emotion of complete surrender at the Deityās feet.
Actions to be performed after having darshan of the Deity
Once again turn towards deity and have darshan of the main Deity and exit from the main door.
Performing pradakshina (Circumambulation) of the Deity
Commence the pradakshina (Circumambulation) after standing on the left side outside the garbhagruha. (On completion of the pradakshina, stand on the right side and have darshan).
Before starting the pradakshina, pray to the Deity thus ā āO ____ (Name of the Deity), as I perform the pradakshina by your grace, with every step let all the sins of my past births burn away and let me be able to imbibe more and more of the Chaitanya (Divine consciousness) emitting from you.ā
Perform pradakshina at a medium pace with the hands joined together in a Namaskar mudra and chant the Deityās Name.
Do not touch the outer side of garbhagruha while performing pradakshina. – After each pradakshina, pay obeisance to the Deity and only then commence the next pradakshina.
After completion of pradakshinas, pay obeisance to the Deity with a bhav (Spiritual emotion) of complete surrender, followed by a prayer.
Offering coins, coconut etc. to the Deity
The coins for the Deities should be offered at their Holy feet and not thrown at their body. If the Deityās Idol is not approachable, then place it with you only and put your offerings in the Hundi.
Accepting Tirth
After completing the pradakshina, take the Tirth with the right hand and touch the same hand to the eyes.
Accepting Prasad
Accept the Prasad with the right hand only.
Bow humbly to accept the Prasad. (If the space is insufficient, bow a little).
Think of the Deity while looking at the Prasad.
After accepting the Prasad, straighten up slowly and not in a hurry. This will retain the sattvikta generated while accepting the Prasad for a longer period.
Sit inside the temple and chant for some time and then, as far as possible, take the Prasad in the temple.
After taking the Prasad, stand and mentally do Namaskar to the Deity. – If you wish to carry home the Prasad, do so after wrapping it in a clean cloth.
The hagiography of great people who transformed society and dictated new directions is always hazy. Several stories were built upon their lives as per their understanding of the meaning of the avatar of such personalities. The stories surrounding the birth of Lord Hanuman were not an exception. However, it had been pronounced in all the texts that Anjani and Kesari were parents of Lord Hanuman.
STORY OF ANJANI
One apsara named, Punjikastala because of the immense powers she possessed, was wandering in the skies. When she was roaming there, she saw a monkey in deep meditation. Since the monkey was sitting cross-legged, it looked funny to her. She made a mockery of him. Despite her mischievous deeds, the monkey could not be disturbed of his meditation.
She threw stones and fruits at him and suddenly the monkey came out of meditation and noticed the mischievous deeds of Punjikastala throwing stones at him. He cursed her to change her personality as a monkey as she was making fun of him.
When she prayed at her feet, the monkey blessed her that the curse would end as soon as she gave birth to a son who would be an incarnation of Lord Shiva. As per his advice, she made a small Shiva Linga and prayed the Lord.
Afterwards wandering in the forest in the form of a monkey she came to a place where she saw some saints. When they enquired about her whereabouts, she said her name was ‘Anjani’. While talking to her, the saints exclaimed how she could cross the forest without fear which was occupied by one demon called, Sambasadan.
They further told that the demon would be invading their ashram that day and they were very fearful of fighting him out. She said that she would demolish him. When she was preparing herself with bows and arrows to fight, she found a man beside her to fight with the demon. He was ‘Kesari’, a monkey King of the forest. Both killed the demon.
Kesari then married Anjani. They meditated for the blessings of Lord Shiva.Ā Hanuma was born to them with the blessings of Lord Shiva.
Lord Hanuma on his birth relieved his mother of her vanararoopam (monkey personality). Thus lord Hanuma derived the names Kesarinandana (son of Kesari) and Anjaniputra (son of Anjani).
BIRTH OF HANUMA
There are several stories surrounding the birth of Hanuma. Hanuma is called Vayuputra (son of the Wind god). Bhavartha Ramayana gives an explanation. When Anjani was meditating about Lord Shiva, Dasaratha was performing putrakamestiyagna (yagna with a desire for child) at the same time in Ayodhya.
Blessed with his yagna, he received payasam (made of milk and rice). A kite snatched a part of payasam when being delivered to Dasaratha and dropped in where Anjani was meditating for Lord Shiva. Vayu carried the falling payasam and placed it in the hands of Anjani.
She gave birth to a child and named him as ‘Hanuma’. Hanuman Chalisa thus narrates Lord Hanuma as, āAnjaniputra pavanasuthanamaā, āSankara Suvana Kesari Nandanaā.
MOTHERLY LOVE
Hanuma was very mischievous and had huge appetite. Anjani used to get up early in the morning and fetched him fruits to mitigate his hunger because she knows that he cannot wait longer for food. One day she was late in returning home. Hanuma got up and searched for food. When he could not get anything, he noticed Sun in the form of a round fruit on the east side. He flew to the skies and tried to catch hold of him.
Rahu was always in the look out to swallow Sun, but he found an opponent. He tried to overcome Hanuma. He drove away Rahu. Rahu having failed in his effort to grab, went to Indra and complained that small monkey snatched the Sun from him. Both came to the place and found Hanuma holding the Sun in his hand and was ready to eat as he felt it was red melon. Indra hurled Vajrayudha and it hit Hanuma at the chin.
Hanuma felt on the ground. Mother Anjani was agitated because of her love to him. Both Indra and Vayu appeared by them and blessed Hanuma with immense powers.
SENDING HANUMA TO LORD SUN
Having known the powers of his son, speed, mischief and knowledge, she sent him to Lord Sun to learn holy scriptures from him.
TEMPLES OF ANJANI MAATHA
Anjanimaatha was said to have done penance and gave birth to Hanuma in a place called AnjaniParvat, a village near Ahwa in Dang District. Earlier this place was part of Dandakaranya. Anjanimaatha is worshipped as a family deity in Himachal Pradesh and Salsar, Rajasthan.
There are two temples at both these places dedicated to her. The story behind the temple in Himachal Pradesh says that once mother (Anjani) visited this place and stayed there for a long time. One villager saw her, but mother told him not to reveal her identity to anyone.
But he informed all the villagers. Angered by his actions, his mother left the place but before leaving she made the village into a big stone. Scorpion is her vehicle (Vahanam). Thus any villager bitten by a scorpion in that area will visit the mother for a cure.
There is another temple of the mother in Haridwar.Ā Anjani was a blessed mother as she had given to this universe a valiant, faithful and resonant son, Hanuma. In a motherās love nothing matters, whether her child is beautiful or ugly, intelligent or laggard. She is the most accomplished creation of God on earth and she is the first teacher to the child.
Thus Manu Smirti says, āFrom the point of view of reverence due, a teacher is tenfold superior to a mere lecturer, a father a hundred to a teacher and mother a thousandfold to a fatherā.
The tradition of tying a piece of cloth around the forehead during important festivals is known as Parivattam. This is an ancient custom in almost all the temples in South India, yet this custom has more importance in the temple of Lord Venkateswara. A piece of cloth torn from the worn dress of the Lord (half a metre) is used for this purpose.
In our temple, this custom is invariably followed on all occasions during Asthanams like
The purpose of tying the parivattam is to recognise the service rendered by an individual from time to time in the service of the Lord. There are names for the occasions called as
Dharmakartha Parivattam (jeeyar Parivattam),
Circar Parivattam (E.O. or his representative).
There is Ubhaya parivattam (Donors) is also in practice during the Utsavams and Asthanam.
In the ancient days, the Temple administration was under the supervision of the kings or chieftains or local philanthropists or wealthy people who took care of the temples. The kings used to give lands, and jewels and also construct big temples.
In return for their services, the temple administration used to give them parivattam honours offering silk cloth worn by God called āSeshavastramā and garlanding them.Ā This custom is followed even today as a mark of custom in the āSrivariā temple for very important persons.
During Adhyanotsavam, (Vedam & Prabandham) the Deekshitas (Archakas), Jeeyars, Ekangis and Acharyapurushas were also ubhayadars (donors) for each day and receive parivattam honours. Even others connected with the temple like Golla, Annamaiah family members, etc. also contribute their mite during Adhyayanotsavam ubhayam and receive honours.
It is well known that the temples are the centres of socio-economic, religious and secular in nature treating all equally before God. Adhyayanotsavam at Tirumala will be for 23 days and for each day, there are ubhayadars and in Sri Govindarajaswamivari temple 21 days and there are also ubhayadars belonging to all sections of society irrespective of caste and status.
Parivattam honours are an exclusive opportunity to those attached to the temple of Lord Srinivasa. The Lord recognises all and treats all to participate in all utsavams or Asthanams so that the ubhayadars feel proud that they are the servants of Lord Srinivasa and He is their mainstay.
Sri Venkateswara Gosamrakshana Trust is yet another forum that plays a very important role in the protection of cows, which is of paramount importance in Hindu Dharma. The TTD has established a dairy farm called āSri Venkateswara Gosamrakshanasalaā in Tirupati in the year 1956 and formed the trust in 2002 to meet its needs.
Sri Venkateswara Gosamrakshana Trust is established to protect the cow and emphasise the spiritual importance of the cow apart from its economic aspect.
Helping needy
The S.V.Dairy Farm, TTD., Tirupati supplies milk and curd to all the TTD Temples for Rituals, prasadams, Abhishekams etc., and also to the service institutions like
S.V.Balamandir (Orphanage),
S.V.Deaf and Dumb School,
S.V.Training Centre for the Physically handicapped,
S.V.Poor Home (Leprosy Hospital),
S.V.Vedapatasala,
S.V.Oriental College Hostel,
TTD Hospitals,
āAnnadanamā scheme of T.T.D. etc.,
Sri Venkatachala Mahathyam
In āSri Venkatachala Mahathyamā Lord Brahma became a cow, Lord Siva became a calf and Sri Lakshmi become a Yadava maid and both the cow and calf were sold to Chola king by Sri Lakshmi in a bid to provide milk to meditating Srinivasa in Venkatachalam. There also he protected the cow from the curse of its herdsman.
Cow is the greatest blessing of human race, lands grow rich, homes flourish and civilization advances where the Cow is kept and cared for. The Trust also aims at improving the living conditions of cows outside Goshala by providing technical inputs to the general public.
Donations
Devotees can also help in the protection and propagation of endangered varieties of native cows such as Gir, Sahiwal, Kankrej, Ongole and Punganur, as TTD management has taken up the massive responsibility with the contribution received by this trust.
Privileges to Donors
Donors donating to this trust between Rs.1 lakh and Rs.5 lakh will be allowed for Darshan through āSupathamā for one day in a year (subject to availability) for their family of five persons. They will also get free accommodation for five persons or VIP accommodation on a payment basis once in a year. These privileges will be extended during the lifetime of the donor in the case of individuals or for 20 years, in the case of firms, companies and joint donors.
Those donating an amount between Rs.5 lakh and Rs.10 lakh will get Darshan through āSupathamā for three days in a year (subject to availability) for five members of their family. Free accommodation will be provided for three days or VIP accommodation on a payment basis.
Donors donating an amount between Rs.10 lakh and Rs.1 crore will be provided break darshan for three days in a year (subject to availability) for their family of five persons. They will be provided accommodation for three times in a year at any room with a tariff value of Rs.500.
Those donating Rs.1 crore and above will get VIP break Darshan for three days a year free of cost for their family of five persons. This apart, the donorās family will also be provided Suprabhatha Seva for any three days other than the VIP break day.
Donations can be made by way of a cheque/demand draft on any Scheduled Bank drawn in favour of the Executive Officer, Sri Venkateswara Gosamrakshana Trust, TTD, Tirupati and can be sent to
the Director,
S.V.Dairy Farm (S.V.Gosamrakshana Shala)
Chandragiri Road, TTD, Tirupati -517501.
Ph.0877-226 4570 Individuals, firms, companies etc. can make donations, and they are eligible for uniform privileges besides Income Tax Benefit under Section 80 (G) of the Indian Income Tax Act. Click Here to Donate
Adi Shankaracharya – A Great Philosopher and Reformer of all Times
One of the greatest philosophers, Adi Shankaracharya was born in a namboodri brahmin family approximately in the 8th century A.D. ie; nearly about 1230 years ago in a village called Kalady on the banks of river Periyar (Poorna) in Kottayam district of Kerala State. In the Vasantha Ruthuvu (spring season) at noon in the auspicious abhijit muhurta.
He was named ‘Sankara’ by his parents. Unfortunately, his father Sivaguru died when Shankara was only at the age of 3 years old and he was brought up by his mother Aryamba with great love and care.
A Brilliant Prodigy
Shankara was a gifted child and had a very sharp memory. Shankara exhibited extraordinary intelligence and remarkable scholarship in his childhood days. Even before he was eight years old, Shankara mastered all Vedas and before he was twelve, he completed all Sastras and Upanishads.
By Sixteen, he had digested the prasthaanatraya and Bhashya commentaries. He was the great Spiritual Scholar, Philosopher, Visionary, Reformer and a great Teacher of all times.
Adi Shankaracharya’s Miracles
Right from childhood, Shankara was interested in Sanyasa and wanted to lead a meaningful life detached from worldly pleasures. He started his quest for truth and decided to renounce what was very dear to him much against the wishes of his mother. There were few miracles in his life to say, he was a divine personality. According to legend, one day his mother fainted after walking three kilometres for her daily bath in the river Periyar (Poorna).
Feeling helpless, little Shankara prayed to Lord Krishna and with his prayer, God appeared before him and blessed him by saying āThe River will flow where your little footprints are markedā The river took its new course in the place marked by the little boyās feet and it rerouted her way towards their house.
Thereafter, his mother used to take her bath in that river near their house. Sankara then installed Lord Krishna at that place symbolising the occasion by reciting his famous Achyuta Ashtakam.
Further, Shankara enacted a small drama to his decision to be approved by his mother for renouncing. Once, while taking a bath in the Poorna River, Shankara was attacked by Crocodile. He raised an alarm and his mother started screaming for help. Though his mother wanted to rescue him, she could not and was helpless.
Shankara in absolute calm told his mother that he might die if she did not let him accept Sanyasa. When she reluctantly agreed and remained with no other choice at that time. As soon as she accepted, Sankara recited a mantra and the crocodile disappeared from the scene.
Shankara assured his mother that he would be at her bedside in her last moment. He heard her call when he was journeying in the north and miraculously appeared before his mother. As desired by her, Sankara prayed to Lord Vishnu who made His presence felt by giving darshan as Krishna to his dying mother. As promised, he had performed the funeral rites of his mother in spite of the problems he faced in his community.
During his childhood, once Sankara had to go to the house of a poor lady to collect alms for his guru. She had nothing to give him at that time and she gave him an Amla because she did not want to send him empty-handed. Having come to know of her poverty, he instantly composed a hymn of Goddess Lakshmi which later became very popular as “Kanakadhara Stavam”.
Goddess Mahalakshmi pleased with his hymn dropped a shower of golden Amlas in the house of that poor lady to eradicate her abject poverty.
Spiritual Contribution
Adi Shankaracharya is said to have travelled all over India and visited places like Kashi(Varanasi), Nepal, Kashmir, Badari, Kedar, Allahabad, Dwaraka, Puri, Rameswaram, Sringeri, Kanyakumari, Prayag, Kanchi and Hrishikesh etc.
Establishment of Monasteries
During the process of reviving the ancient culture and to maintain national integration, Sankaracharya had established four Mutts or Monasteries which are associated with four Vedas namely Rigveda, Yajurveda, Samaveda and Adharvanaveda at four corners of our country.
He founded the first Jyothir Mutt in the north at Badarikshetram where the Alakananda river flows and his disciple Totakacharya, an Adharvana Vedic Scholar was made incharge of the Mutt.
Sankaracharya set up the second Kali Mutt in the west at Dwaraka and Padmapada, a Rigveda Scholar took charge as the pontiff.
The third is Govardhana Mutt at Puri in the east and Hastamalaka, a Samavedic Scholar was made the pontiff.
The fourth one is the Sharada Mutt at Sringeri in the south sculpted the Srichakra on a rock and installed Mother Sharada on it and his disciple Sureshwaracharya, a Sukla Yajurvedic scholar was made the incharge of the Mutt.
Adi Shankaracharya – Intellectual Writings
In his life span of thirty-two years, Adi Shankaracharya shared his discoveries and intellectual thoughts through his innumerable outstanding works like
Vivekachoodamani,
Soundaryalahari,
Sivanandalahari,
Mahishasuramardini Stotram,
Manishapanchakam,
Upanishad Sahasri,
Atma Bhodha,
Bhashyas on Brahmasutras,
Kanakadharastotram,
Siva panchakshari,
Ganesh pancharatna Stotram,
Lakshminarayana Stotram,
Hanumad Panchakam,
Bhaja Govindam Slokas,
Panchayudha Stotram, and
Achyuta Ashtakam and many more.
Adi Shankaracharya took all the technicalities of language in his numerous works. His mastery of language could be seen in his Upanishad and Bhagavad Gita commentaries, Brahma Sutra expositions and Bhaja Govindam Slokas. The great Sanskrit language almost became plastic at his hands and Sankaraās pen was made to dance itself to the rhythm of his heart and to the swing of his thoughts.
His commentaries on different works are said to be of immense value to the past, present and future generations of humanity of the world for realization of truth and spiritual enlightenment.
Towards the end of his life, Sankaracharya took a journey to the Himalayan areas of Kedar and Badarinath to attain Veda Mukti (Freedom from Embodiment). Many saints were born, and many others should have contributed great works but Sankaracharya stands as a Towering Personality who did pioneering work for the spread of Hindu philosophy and establishing Sanatana Dharma in our country.
To sum up, Sankaracharyaās words from Upadesa Sahasri assume greater relevance and significance even to present-day society.
He says “We should study the scriptures, perform the duties well, drive away all ignoble thoughts from the minds, get out of the little ego, seek the company of the good and wise, be devoted to God, listen to the vedantic truths, refrain from vain quarrel, avoid quibbling before the venerable elders, keep satisfied with what we have, possess humility, develop the power of tolerance, be charitable in deed and word, think in solitude and pray the God regularlyāā.
Sankaracharya conquered the world with his philosophy and attained the status of ‘Jagadguru’. As he was the first preacher of Hindu Dharma, he became Jagad Guru Adi Sankaracharya. He is undoubtedly a great protector of Hindu Dharma and proved to be a testimony who untiringly strived for achieving national integration in the country with his philosophical contributions.
Adi Sankaracharya – A Great Philosopher and Reformer of all Times
One of the greatest philosophers, Adi Sankaracharya was born in a namboodri brahmin family approximately in the 8th century A.D. ie; nearly about 1230 years ago in a village called Kalady on the banks of river Periyar (Poorna) in Kottayam district of Kerala State. In the Vasantha Ruthuvu (spring season) at noon in the auspicious abhijit muhurta.
He was named ‘Sankara’ by his parents. Unfortunately, his father Sivaguru died when Sankara was only at the age of 3 years old and he was brought up by his mother Aryamba with great love and care.
A Brilliant Prodigy
Sankara was a gifted child and had a very sharp memory. Sankara exhibited extraordinary intelligence and remarkable scholarship in his childhood days. Even before he was eight years old, Sankara mastered all Vedas and before he was twelve, he completed all Sastras and Upanishads.
By Sixteen, he had digested the prasthaanatraya and Bhashya commentaries. He was the great Spiritual Scholar, Philosopher, Visionary, Reformer and a great Teacher of all times.
Sankaracharya’s Miracles
Right from childhood, Sankara was interested in Sanyasa and wanted to lead a meaningful life detached from worldly pleasures. He started his quest for truth and decided to renounce what was very dear to him much against the wishes of his mother. There were few miracles in his life to say, he was a divine personality. According to legend, one day his mother fainted after walking three kilometres for her daily bath in the river Periyar (Poorna).
Feeling helpless, little Sankara prayed to Lord Krishna and with his prayer, God appeared before him and blessed him by saying āThe River will flow where your little footprints are markedā The river took its new course in the place marked by the little boyās feet and it rerouted her way towards their house.
Thereafter, his mother used to take her bath in that river near their house. Sankara then installed Lord Krishna at that place symbolising the occasion by reciting his famous Achyuta Ashtakam.
Further, Sankara enacted a small drama to his decision to be approved by his mother for renouncing. Once, while taking a bath in the Poorna River, Sankara was attacked by Crocodile. He raised an alarm and his mother started screaming for help. Though his mother wanted to rescue him, she could not and was helpless.
Sankara in absolute calm told his mother that he might die if she did not let him accept Sanyasa. When she reluctantly agreed and remained with no other choice at that time. As soon as she accepted, Sankara recited a mantra and the crocodile disappeared from the scene.
Sankara assured his mother that he would be at her bedside in her last moment. He heard her call when he was journeying in the north and miraculously appeared before his mother. As desired by her, Sankara prayed to Lord Vishnu who made His presence felt by giving darshan as Krishna to his dying mother. As promised, he had performed the funeral rites of his mother in spite of the problems he faced in his community.
During his childhood, once Sankara had to go to the house of a poor lady to collect alms for his guru. She had nothing to give him at that time and she gave him an Amla because she did not want to send him empty-handed. Having come to know of her poverty, he instantly composed a hymn of Goddess Lakshmi which later became very popular as “Kanakadhara Stavam”.
Goddess Mahalakshmi pleased with his hymn dropped a shower of golden Amlas in the house of that poor lady to eradicate her abject poverty.
Spiritual Contribution
Sankaracharya is said to have travelled all over India and visited places like Kashi(Varanasi), Nepal, Kashmir, Badari, Kedar, Allahabad, Dwaraka, Puri, Rameswaram, Sringeri, Kanyakumari, Prayag, Kanchi and Hrishikesh etc.
Establishment of Monasteries
During the process of reviving the ancient culture and to maintain national integration, Sankaracharya had established four Mutts or Monasteries which are associated with four Vedas namely Rigveda, Yajurveda, Samaveda and Adharvanaveda at four corners of our country.
He founded the first Jyothir Mutt in the north at Badarikshetram where the Alakananda river flows and his disciple Totakacharya, an Adharvana Vedic Scholar was made incharge of the Mutt.
Sankaracharya set up the second Kali Mutt in the west at Dwaraka and Padmapada, a Rigveda Scholar took charge as the pontiff.
The third is Govardhana Mutt at Puri in the east and Hastamalaka, a Samavedic Scholar was made the pontiff.
The fourth one is the Sharada Mutt at Sringeri in the south sculpted the Srichakra on a rock and installed Mother Sharada on it and his disciple Sureshwaracharya, a Sukla Yajurvedic scholar was made the incharge of the Mutt.
Sankaracharya –Ā Intellectual Writings
In his life span of thirty-two years, Sankaracharya shared his discoveries and intellectual thoughts through his innumerable outstanding works like
Vivekachoodamani,
Soundaryalahari,
Sivanandalahari,
Mahishasuramardini Stotram,
Manishapanchakam,
Upanishad Sahasri,
Atma Bhodha,
Bhashyas on Brahmasutras,
Kanakadharastotram,
Siva panchakshari,
Ganesh pancharatna Stotram,
Lakshminarayana Stotram,
Hanumad Panchakam,
Bhaja Govindam Slokas,
Panchayudha Stotram, and
Achyuta Ashtakam and many more.
Sankaracharya took all the technicalities of language in his numerous works. His mastery of language could be seen in his Upanishad and Bhagavad Gita commentaries, Brahma Sutra expositions and Bhaja Govindam Slokas. The great Sanskrit language almost became plastic at his hands and Sankaraās pen was made to dance itself to the rhythm of his heart and to the swing of his thoughts.
His commentaries on different works are said to be of immense value to the past, present and future generations of humanity of the world for realization of truth and spiritual enlightenment.
Towards the end of his life, Sankaracharya took a journey to the Himalayan areas of Kedar and Badarinath to attain Veda Mukti (Freedom from Embodiment). Many saints were born, and many others should have contributed great works but Sankaracharya stands as a Towering Personality who did pioneering work for the spread of Hindu philosophy and establishing Sanatana Dharma in our country.
To sum up, Sankaracharyaās words from Upadesa Sahasri assume greater relevance and significance even to present-day society.
He says “We should study the scriptures, perform the duties well, drive away all ignoble thoughts from the minds, get out of the little ego, seek the company of the good and wise, be devoted to God, listen to the vedantic truths, refrain from vain quarrel, avoid quibbling before the venerable elders, keep satisfied with what we have, possess humility, develop the power of tolerance, be charitable in deed and word, think in solitude and pray the God regularlyāā.
Sankaracharya conquered the world with his philosophy and attained the status of ‘Jagadguru’. As he was the first preacher of Hindu Dharma, he became Jagad Guru Adi Sankaracharya. He is undoubtedly a great protector of Hindu Dharma and proved to be a testimony who untiringly strived for achieving national integration in the country with his philosophical contributions.
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