Lord Shiva’s Family! (Credit: Google)

 Lord Shiva and Shridevi Parvathi are one and always together. They are inseparable divine couple. They have a small and happy family with beloved sons elephant-headed Lord Ganesha and Six-faced Lord Karthikeya.

You may say: well, these are very well known to everybody.

What is special about these?  What is the link between these deities and Kundalini Yoga? 

OK. Let us understand now.

 Macrocosm and Microcosm Principle of Tantras

According to our Tantras, universe is called brahmanda (macrocosm). We are all like a small universe called kshudra brahmanda(mini-universe or microcosm). So, all the deities present in the universe also dwell within us in different locations of our body. It has been said:

Yadihaasti tadanyatra yannehaasti na kashchana |

Whatever is here(in microcosm), that is present elsewhere (in macrocosm) too. Whatever is not here(in microcosm), that is not present anywhere(in macrocosm)!

This means that entire universe is present within us! What an excellent thought! Naturally, we have a question:

Where do Shiva’s family members live in our body?

As we discussed, Lord Ganesha controls the first psychic chakra, i.e. muladhara. He is the gate keeper and the ruler of this chakra.  In passive or sleeping mode, Shridevi Parvathi also dwells here in muladhara as a serpent called Kundalini. In the awakened state, Shridevi moves as Kundalini power in sushumna.

The divine channel(nadi) sushumna is nothing but Lord Karthikeya himself. The spinal column in which sushumna is said to be present,  looks like a serpent. So, in Southern India , Lord Karthikeya is worshiped as a divine serpent. Since Devi Kundalini is a serpent,  it also suggests that Lord Karthikeya may also symbolize Kundalini power. Lord Shiva is known to be seated in the sahasrara chakra at the crown of the head.

Lord Shiva’s Family and Kundalini Yoga

Now, let us see the process of Kundalini Yoga. In this path, entire yoga path starts from muladhara, the Lord Ganesha’s abode. The Shridevi is sleeping like a serpent Kundalini in muladhara chakra. If a person is fortunate to have the Sadguru’s Grace by shaktipat, the Grace gently touches the divine Mother Kundalini.

Now, Devi Kundalini wakes up! She enters sushumna which is the place of Lord Karthikeya. She goes up and merges with her beloved Lord Shiva at sahasrara leading to samadhi state. This union of Shiva and Kundalini Shakti(power) gives the infinite bliss to the yoga practitioner.  This is all about Kundalini Yoga!  Did you recognize the importance of these deities in Kunadlini yoga now? Not yet? Let us clarify it further.

This entire Kundalini Yoga mechanism depends on the following entities and corresponding deities as follows:

1. Muladhara chakra - Lord Ganesha is the ruler: yoga starts here.
2. Mother Kundalini – She is Shridevi Parvathi: the means of yoga.
3. Sushumna – Embodiment of Lord Karthikeya :  the channel/path of Kundalini.
4. Finally, Sahasrara chakra – the seat of the Greatest Lord Shiva: the End of yoga!

This is the secret of Shiva’s family and their relation with the highest yoga, i.e. Kundalini Yoga!

This is still somewhat abstract. Can we understand by an analogy?

Sure. Why not? Kundalini Yoga is our sacred journey. Lord Ganesha who rules the Earth element at muladhara is our origin. Lord Shiva who is abiding at Sahasrara is our destination. Lord Karthikeya is nothing but Sushumna which is the road. Divine Mother Kundalini is our vehicle and destination(because of oneness of Shiva and Shakti).  The Sadguru is our guide and map. Got it now?

Let us pray these deities to help us in the practice of Kundalini Yoga. By their blessings and Grace we can surely achieve the real goal of life and yoga.

Om Namah Shivaya ||

- Kalidas

Jasmine Flower  (Photo Credit: Wikimedia)

Folks,

Hari Om ! Namaste!!

Good news!!

With the recent article on Rudraksha Yoga, we offered 54th post as a flower on the divine feet of  Lord Shiva and Shridevi.

It is a milestone, because the number 54 is half of the holy number 108. This endeavor is possible only by the inspiration of Shridevi and guidance from our Sadguru‘s Grace.

At this auspicious occasion, we would like to remember the 100th shloka from Saundaryalahari of Shri Shankara Bhagavatpadah.

Pradeepajwaalabhir divasakara neerajanavidhih
sudhaasootheh chandropala jalalavair arghya rachana|
Swakeeyairambhoobhih salilanidhi sauhityakaranam
tvadeeyabhihr vagbhihstava janani vachaam stutitiriyam || - Saundaryalahari 100

Meaning:
Just as waving a lighted lamp (arati) to the blazing Sun,
Just as making an offering of water(arghya) that oozes out of moonstone to the Moon,
Just as making a water offering(tarpana) to ocean,
Is  to return what belongs to itself,
O source of all learning(Shridevi)! this hymn addressed to you,
Composed of words that are already yours!

Likewise:
We offer all our posts of this blog to the divine feet of Lord Shiva and Shridevi – with great respect, devotion and humility. As discussed above, all words belong to Shridevi(also Lord Shiva because of oneness of Shiva and Shakti) . Words are nothing but Herself(Vaak devi or Saraswati).

Now, let us pray the divine parents for their Grace!

Jagatah pitarau vande Parvati Parameshwarau | – Raghuvamsha 1.1
I Salute the parents of the Universe, Devi Parvati and Lord Shiva. (for their Grace to know the word and its meaning).

Sarve janaah sukhinoo bhavatu |
May everybody be healthy and happy!

Om Namah Shivaya ||

- Kalidas

All Powerful Shridevi Durga  (Credit: Google)

Hari Om! Namaste!!

As we discussed while exposing the meaning of the word Shridevi, Lakshmi and Parvati are basically one and the same. They are the powers of Great Mother Durga. This is clearly recorded in the following interesting sloka from the Scripture Devi Mahatmya:

The Verse (Sloka)

Sarvamangala mangalye Shive! sarvartha sadhike | Line #1
Sharanye tryambake Devi (Gauri)! Narayani! namostu te || Line #2

General Meaning:

Line#1 Most auspicious of all auspicious! Parvati! Provider of all desires!
Line#2 Refuge of everything! Three-eyed! Devi(Parvati)! Lakshmi!  We salute you !!

Read the meaning? Whom are we praying here? Parvati? Lakshmi? or both? or Durga? Does Lakshmi have three eyes? Is it all confusing?

OK. Let us try to understand vagartha (word and its meaning) of the sloka clearly.

Meaning #1

Let us rearrange as follows:

Sarvamangala mangalye sarvartha sadhike Shive! #1
Sharanye tryambake Devi (Gauri)  Narayani!  namostu te || #2

In the first line, underlined words refer to Shri Lakshmi who is most auspicious of auspicious and provider of all desires. But the line is addressed to Parvati as Shive!   In other words, we are praying Parvati to fulfill all our desires as Shri Lakshmi.

The second line is addressed to Lakshmi (Narayani)!  But how? As Parvati who is having three-eyes,  the refuge of everybody to escape endless birth and death cycle. Parvati is the presiding deity for liberation(moksha).

In summary, we are praying Parvati as Lakshmi and Lakshmi as Parvati.  This indicates, although Lakshmi and Parvati  look like separate, they are one and the same. They are just different powers of the same deity, all powerful Mahadevi Durga.

Meaning #2

Let us rearrange the sloka as follows:

Sarvamangala mangalye sarvartha sadhike Narayani! | #1
Sharanye tryambake Shive! Devi(Gauri)!  namostu te || #2

In the first line, we are praying Lakshmi, who is auspicious of all auspicious things, who is the giver of all desires and material enjoyment (bhoga). In the second line, we request Parvati to provide us her refuge, i.e. liberation (moksha).

In the sloka, either Devi or Gauri word is used. If we say Devi, we are addressing  Durga Devi, who has the combined powers of Lakshmi and Parvati. The word Gauri may be used to emphasize separate  powers of Lakshmi and Parvati in Supreme Mother Durga.

More peculiarities of Sloka

1. Sarvartha Sadhike:  means fulfiller of all desires. The word sarvartha also means four attainments of human beings (purushartha) viz. Dharma(dutiful living), Artha(wealth), Kama(desires) and Moksha(liberation).
2. Tryambake: Three eyed(like Lord Shiva). Esoteric meaning: Three eyes of Lord Shiva represent Moon, Sun and Fire. They also symbolize Ida, Pingala and Sushumna channels in our psychic body. In other words, the second line of the sloka  is addressed to Mother Kundalini.  Once awakened by a realized master, Devi Kundalini removes our ignorance and ensures us to achieve liberation.
3. Lakshmi and Parvati are the consorts of Vishnu and Shiva respectively. In the sloka, we are praying Lakshmi as Parvati and vice versa. What does this mean? It suggests the Lakshmi and Parvati are one and the same. Indirectly, it implies the oneness of Vishnu and Shiva. This further shows that you may pray any of these deities to get material enjoyment or liberation or both!
4. The sloka also indicates that the Great Goddess Durga is the supreme mother of all powers.
5. In essence, we are praying Lakshmi and Parvati powers of Durga Devi  to help us achieve material enjoyment(bhoga) and liberation(moksha). What else do we need?

What is the hidden message of this mystical sloka?

Shri Devi Durga is mother of all powers. She gives us material prosperity(bhoga) as Lakshmi. She provides us liberation(moksha) and final refuge to escape from birth and death cycle, as Parvati.  Your prayer goes to the same power, no matter whom you pray, whether it is Lakshmi or Parvati. Finally, Shridevi Durga is that power who bestows you whatever you ask her with complete devotion and faith. Is it clear?

Finally, we have our eternal question now!

Sorry! I am still confused. I am a business executive. Whom should I pray in this sloka to get what benefit? What is the bottom line?

You can use this sloka equally well to pray Lakshmi, Parvati or Durga. Pick your favorite one! Ultimately, Shridevi Durga is the one who gives you whatever you pray for. As discussed, the sloka can be used to achieve both material enjoyment and liberation in a single prayer! Can we ask for anything more? We hope it is crystal clear now.

Related Article of Interest:

Shridevi: Who is She? Read the discussion here.

Om Namah Shivaya ||

- Kalidas

Great Realized Master : Paramahamsa Parvrajakacharya Sadguru Shri Shridhara Swami Maharaj of Varadapura

If you are a regular reader of this blog, you would have come across references to the term “Scriptures and Great Masters” in many of my articles. Naturally, the question arises:

Why are the Scriptures and Great Masters important in gaining the Highest Knowledge?

To answer this question, let us take the route of Reality Fiction, i.e. the spiritual truths are presented in an imaginative story.  OK. Are you ready? Shall we start? Fine. Here we go.

The Story of Somya and Sujnan Giri

Somya was the studying the Vedas with the realized master Sujnan Giri. He was an excellent student devoted to his master. As his name suggested, he was worthy to have Highest Knowledge. So, Sujnan Giri had a special affection on him.

One day, Sujnan Giri mentioned in the class:  “ We must respect our Scriptures and Great Masters to access the Highest Knowledge“.  Somya was intrigued by this statement. He was very curious to know more. So he approached the master after the class.

Here is the excerpt of his discussion with the master:

Somya: “Revered Sir!  Hari Om! Namaste!  I would like to know more on the importance Scriptures and Great Masters. Please tell me.”

Sujnan Giri: “Hari Om! Namaste, Somya! In a nutshell:  Scriptures are documentation of spiritual experience. The Great Masters give you that experience!”  

Somya: “Revered Sir, could you please elaborate?”

Sujnan Giri: “Sure. Let us take our Vedas as an example. As you already know, they were not written by anybody.  That is why they are called apaurusheya(not authored by human beings). Since they were heard, they are called Shrutis(that which is heard) too.

Our Great Masters(rishis) heard or saw these Vedas in deep meditation.  So, they are called drastraras (seers) of Vedas. Out of compassion, they transmitted the Vedic revelations to their qualified disciples.

The Vedas comprise of mantras, which are nothing but the sound form of the Universal Self.  Since Great Masters are God-realized, they are same as God. There is no difference! Thus, both the Scriptures and Great Masters are nothing but Universal Self.  So, we need to respect them. Got it?”

Somya: “Sir, Now, I am convinced that Scriptures and Great Masters are God. But, why should we respect them?”

Sujnan Giri: “Good question. You started asking like a real scientist! OK. Let me explain with your so called logic and jargon, so that you can understand clearly!

By the way, why does water flow spontaneously? It flows because of a favorable difference in height. It only moves from an elevated point to a lower terrain. How does electric current flow? The electrons move from a region of higher potential to a region of lower potential.  You can have more analogies like this.

The Highest Knowledge also follows this fundamental law. The moment we respect, we keep ourselves at a slightly lower position because of our devotion and humility. This causes a favorable difference in two levels(master and disciple) to enable the spiritual knowledge to flow down to us easily either from the Scriptures or Great Matsters.”

Somya: “Gurudev! Fantastic explanation. Thanks!  I have another question. Which is better – studying Scriptures or practicing real yoga with the Grace of a realized master?”

Sujnan Giri:  “Both of these go hand in hand. Studying Scriptures is called Swadhyaya and is important. Because, it helps you to understand the fundamental principles of spiritual practice and experiences. The real yoga practice is also crucial since it gives you the experience described in the Scriptures. So, both are complementary and are equally crucial.

The Great Masters play a pivotal role in the entire process by removing our ignorance and by showing the right path to the Highest Knowledge. One more thing. If we are spiritually evolved, we can achieve real yoga by either studying Scriptures or practicing traditional yoga under the supervision of a Guru(master). For all others, integration of both is crucial for rapid spiritual progress. ”

Somya: “Sir! I understood it clearly now. Scriptures deal with the theory. Traditional yoga and Great Masters together form the experimental part. They are inseparable like Vagartha(word and its meaning)  in a yoga path.  Am I correct?”

Sujnan Giri: “You are absolutely right on, Somya! If you are studying the Scriptures, you can easily grasp them by correlating  with your own experiences in your yoga practice.  Traditional yoga practitioners should study the Scriptures to understand their spiritual experiences during their practice from the correct perspective.

So, both theory and practice are essential to access the Highest Knowledge. Together they form a complete package. They will convince yourself that your own Individual Self is God! This is the real secret you learned today. You are allowed to share this only with qualified individuals.“

Somya: “Revered Sir! Thank you very much for imparting this great knowledge. I will strictly follow your admonition. I will study our Great Scriptures and understand the truths in my perspective from my own experience by practicing real traditional yoga  with your kind Grace and guidance.”

Sujnana Giri: “Vatsa(son), My blessings are with you!”

He understood. Thus he understood. Somya saluted his master and went back with happiness.

Om Namah Shivaya ||

- Kalidas

Our Invincible and Boon-giver Mother: Shridevi Mookambika of Kollur, Karnataka (Source: Google)

Folks,

Hari Om! Namaste!!

You would have noticed that most of Hindu deities have more than two hands. They hold many things in their hands – right from  book, Veena(musical instrument), Rudraksha maala, etc.  to weapons such as goad, trident and so on. These are symbolic of what they offer or as a sign of reassurance of protection.

If the hands are not holding anything, they show mystical gestures known as mudras. Gestures are extremely powerful and are very important nonverbal tools in tantric worship. The most crucial gestures are abhaya (“Fear not, I am here to protect you!”) and varada(“I am giving you boons!”).

To see these gestures, take a look at the above picture of all powerful Shridevi Mookambika. Her right hand shows abhaya mudra whereas the left hand displays varada mudra. Now comes the interesting question of our current topic:

What is the secret meaning of varada and abhaya gestures of Shridevi? 

Good question. Let us understand the answer clearly once for all.  Be all you ears(eyes), OK? Fine.

• Abhaya Mudra: This is the gesture of protection and reassurance. By this mudra, Shridevi says with affection- “My devotee! Fear not. I am here to protect you!”. Protection from what? Any fear. Maybe it is fear of examination for students,  fear of failure for businessmen etc. But most important fear is that of birth and death cycle of our Individual Self. We should be very afraid to be in this infinite vicious cycle.
  Abhaya mudra suggests that Shridevi gives us the liberation(moksha) from birth and death cycle. She offers her eternal abode as final refuge by this gesture. Devi Parvati is the deity of liberation of souls. So, this mudra emphasizes dissolution function of Devi Parvati and Lord Shiva inherent in Shridevi. So, abhaya mudra bestows liberation(moksha). It indirectly implies the supreme power and invincibility of Shridevi to dissolve all difficulties in the path of liberation.

• Varada Mudra: It is called “boon giving” gesture. Why do we need boons? To fulfill our various desires for material enjoyment(bhoga) while living on the Earth.  By this mudra, Shridevi says – “Don’t worry, I will give you the boons for your material enjoyment!”. This mudra symbolizes sustenance function of Lord Vishnu and Shri Lakshmi attributes present in Shridevi. So, it offers us prosperity and material enjoyment(bhoga). It also implies the all-giving magnanimous nature of Supreme Mother Shridevi.

But there is another question:

Why does Shridevi show  abahaya mudra on the right hand and  varada mudra on the left?

Very interesting question indeed! OK. Let us face it.  Everybody needs both material enjoyment in life and liberation after his life. Right? Although both are necessary, which one do we need to consider more important?  Here, Shridevi’s gestures give us the authoritative symbolic guidance.

Universally, for most of the people, right hand is dominant and considered more significant.  Abhaya mudra on the right hand suggests that liberation(moksha) is more important than material enjoyment(bhoga) that is symbolized by varada mudra on the left hand. Got the message?

What is the hidden message of abhaya and varada gestures?

As discussed above, abhaya and varada gestures symbolize Parvati and Lakshmi aspects of Supreme Mother Shridevi.  Shridevi bestows liberation(moksha) and material enjoyment(bhoga) to her devotees through these gestures. These two gestures also symbolize the oneness of Lakshmi and Parvati in the Supreme Mother Shridevi Durga.

As always, your usual question :

What is my take home from the entire discussion?

If we pray Shridevi with complete devotion, she surely provides us both material enjoyment(bhoga) and liberation(moksha) just by her gestures!  Got it now?

Om Namah Shivaya ||

- Kalidas

Retrospective Highlights  from Our Archive:
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Everybody is talking about yoga these days. Suffixing the term yoga with almost any activity seems to help selling the products and services in the market place. Yoga is being advertised as panacea in almost everything: to get a lean and flexible body, to acquire health, to reduce stress, curing cancer/diabetes an so on.

It has become a latest fad to practice so called modern yoga taking the “me too” approach, without knowing either aim or basics of real yoga. For some people, practicing yoga has become like a daily circus to challenge physically and entertain themselves!  What a pity!

It is unfortunate that some of these new age yoga systems focus only on physical benefits, deviating completely from fundamental principles and great spiritual goals of traditional yoga. They literally ask us to ‘spin a wheel’ promising some benefits(whatever they are!) by teaching some physical exercises minus active ingredient, spirituality.

Just think about it. Are these so called new age yoga systems have anything to do with the real goal of yoga  as defined by our Great Indian Masters? Not necessarily.  Be advised. Use your discretion.

To know the real difference between our traditional yoga and new age yoga, read a thought-provoking conversation of Chanchal and Nischal  in  this interesting article on our blog.  It is funny! We are sure that you will really like it!

Enjoy! Have fun!!

Om Namah Shivaya ||

- Rudraksha Yoga

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The Great Himalayas (Photo Credit: Kalidas)

Folks,

Hari Om! Namaste!!

Here the latest updates of the Rudraksha Yoga Blog:

New Header Picture: The Great Himalayas

We have  recently updated the home page of Rudraksha Yoga with a picture of Himalayas. Now, the question is:

But, why the Himalayas?

The Great Himalayas of India  inspired our saints and Great Masters from time immemorial. Even today, countless sages live there. It is the origin of our holy river Ganga(a.k.a Ganges), who washes out our sins to prepare ourselves to access the Highest Knowledge.

It is a great landmark to identify our Punya Bhoomi(holy land) Bhaaratha(India). It has been said:

Uttaram yat samudrasya himadreh chaiva dakshinam |
Varsham tad Bhaaratham naama Bhaarathee yatra santatih ||

Meaning: The land, north of the ocean(i.e.Hindu Mahasagara or Indian Ocean) and south of the Himalayas, is called India(a.k.a. Bharathavarsha). It is the country where Bharatheeyas(Indians)  live.

According to our Scriptures, it is the abode of Lord Shiva. Moreover, Shridevi Parvati is the daughter of the Great Himalayas. Thus, the picture of the Himalayas is  well-connected with our concept of Rudraksha, i.e. Rudra is Lord Shiva and Aksha is Devi Parvati.

The current picture is a beautiful view of snow-clad mountains of Western Himalayan Range. Naturally, tall Himalayan peaks touching clouds metaphor with the Highest Knowledge that we focus in the Rudraksha Yoga blog.  So, the picture conveys the theme of the blog very meaningfully with profound symbolism.

Other Updates

The About and FAQ pages have been updated to reflect the aim of this blog and our policies  in detail.

Enjoy reading! Have Fun!!

Om Namah Shivaya ||

- Kalidas

Awakening Kundalini by Shaktipat by Realized Master (Credit: Google)

Folks,

Hari Om! Namaste!!

We will try to be brief in this post(we mean it ) As we discussed, Kundalini Yoga is one of the easiest, mystical and highest forms of traditional yoga. In this yoga path,  Perfect Realized Master(Sadguru) awakens Mother Kundalini in the disciple via Shaktipat initiation. We had been talking about it in many of our earlier posts. Now, the real question is:

How does the Shaktipat Initiation look like? What really happens during the transfer of spiritual energy from the realized master(Sadguru) to the disciple?

Before we answer this question, just see these videos. You may gauge the power of realized masters observing them in action!  Seeing is believing. right? After you finish watching at least 2-3 videos, continue reading this article further. By the way, don’t miss the mass Shaktipat initiation by our Paramaguru Baba Muktananda! How did you feel? We know. Here are your typical reactions:

It is amazing. But very Scary!

Yes, of course! Kundalini Yoga is not for faint-hearted.  It is for the adventurous people.  Although, everybody’s experience during the Shaktipat is unique and different, the experience you saw on the videos can happen to you too! May be not too. The key is to get the Grace of Shaktipat by a realized Sadguru.

Important qualifications of a Sadguru are: 1. He has to come from lineage of realized masters. 2. He must be authorized and commanded by his own Guru to bestow Shaktipat to others. You need to have full faith in your Sadguru and Shridevi Kundalini. You must trust these two great forces to start with. Then, you won’t be scared of anything!

Guru will protect you and will guide you throughout your path to realization. Moreover, before we take initiation, we need to prepare ourselves to get the Grace of Shakti to flow down to us very easily from the Master.

Realized Masters have infinite power! It is extraordinary!! The experience must be very thrilling. I am interested!

Did you see how the masters transfer the energy and control it too? Realized masters have absolute power to transmit and control the spiritual energy.  Some initiates have dramatic experiences during Shaktipat. But, everything is under complete control. The compassionate Guru(Master) ensures the safety of each and every disciple. He guides the disciple throughout the entire journey of traditional yoga.

The experience can be very thrilling and enjoyable because the Supreme Kundalini energy tries to gush through your nadis, removing some blockages. In many of the cases of Shaktipat initiation, Mother Kundalini travels through the entire path of Sushumna to merge with Lord Shiva at Sahasrara. This results in an extremely blissful state of Samadhi. 

Further, it introduces the initiate on – how it feels to have happiness in its entirety within in oneself. This convinces the practitioner beyond an iota of doubt that comparable happiness cannot obtained by focusing on any external objects or engaging in any other activity in life.

Now, we have a question:

I am totally confused now. Can I practice Kundalini Yoga at all?  Is it really safe for me or not?

You are the best judge for that! It is pretty much like deciding: “should I have to take a roller-coaster ride or not?” For some people, it is scary. For others, it is fun and really thrilling! You need to go by your own gut feeling. Unless you are confident, don’t go in a path just because somebody suggested it.

Honestly, I would like to get that experience. But, slightly concerned. What do you recommend?

First of all prepare yourself. Choose a trusted Realized Master for Shaktipat. Adore him. Surrender to him fully to receive the Grace. Pray Shridevi. Because, She herself lives as Mother Kundalini in you! If you follow as advised, we can guarantee that everything will definitely be fine.

One thing is sure: if you are fortunate to get the Grace of Shaktipat from a good realized master, Kundalini Yoga is one of the easiest and safest yoga path filled with fun and great spiritual experiences along the way. Convince yourself that Mother Kundalini is harmless and benevolent if we approach her properly.

Let us assure you that if you take the right approach, there is absolutely nothing to be scared of.  On the other hand, if you won’t get Shaktipat, you need to be always be afraid of infinite birth and death cycle. Just think about it. Now, you may decide what you need to do!

Things can be very dangerous if you go with the so called modern masters who sell the initiation. These fake masters’ eye is on your wallet and their selfish goals to accumulate wealth, fame etc. They are not bothered about your spiritual progress nor to guide you. Moreover, they may even render your psycho-somatic system significantly damaged by their amateur Shaktipat experiment on you. By all means, avoid these fake masters in the market for your safety and well-being.

Now, for a moment, just imagine: what might happen if Kundalini is awakened by some means without the guidance of a Guru? We can’t even guess! We should really be scared. Let me put it this way: things can be very unpredictable and potentially harmful. So, kids! do not try to practice something to awaken Kundalini yourself reading benefits and practices in some books. We want you to be healthy, safe and happy. Alright?

If you are courageous and still interested to take up the path of Kundalini Yoga, we have a list of recommended Realized Masters in our links section of the blog. You may want to check them out. All the best to start your journey!

Om Namah Shivaya ||

- Kalidas

Shridevi who Resides in all of us as the Supreme Mother Devi Kundalini       (Source: Google)

Folks,

Hari Om! Namaste!!

Kundalini Yoga is one of the most esoteric and easiest yoga paths available to us to achieve oneness with the Universal Self. As we know, the divine mother Kundalini is generally in a deep sleep in muladhara chakra until She is awakened by a realized master  by shaktipat.

The awakened Mother Kundalini  goes and merges with Lord Shiva at Sahasrara chakra. The union of Shiva and Shakti bestows an infinitely blissful samadhi state to the practitioner and thus helps him to realize the real goal of yoga.  This is the entire process of Kundalini Yoga in a nutshell.  Now, we have a question:

What is the secret meaning of sleeping and awakened states of Mother Kundalini ?

Good question indeed!   Mother Kundalini is nothing but Shridevi, consort of Lord Shiva. She exists in two states to always help us. Let us see how.

 Sleeping Kundalini: Devi Mahamaya, the Goddess of Great Illusion

When our body is created, Divine Mother Shridevi gets separated from Lord Shiva at sahasrara.  She creates the physical body with  psychic centers and nadis  and distributes our karma along sushumna and  Once she finishes her work of creation and fills the body with consciousness via nadis, She has nothing left to do. So, She goes and sleeps at the last center created, i.e. muladhara chakra. 

From this chakra, She controls each and everything inside the body and outside. Sleeping means that she is not active from spiritual perspective. That is to say, She is not aware that She is separated from Lord Shiva. She cannot go back and merge with her Lord, unless the path of sushumna is clean, i.e. without the karma garbage.

When Kundalini is in deep sleep in muladhara chakra, She works as Mahamaya(Great illusion). What is the great illusion? Feeling of difference or two-ness or duality, i.e. false belief- “we are different from Universal Self(a.k.a God)”. As  Mahamaya, Shridevi helps us to burn our past karmas to cleanse ourselves.  Mahamaya is responsible for material actions and enjoyment(bhoga).

Our Karmas and Mahamaya

If we follow Karma Yoga, i.e. offering the results of all our work to the divine, we won’t accumulate new karma. Once we burn all our past karmas, we are qualified to unite with the Universal Self.  But, it may take many births before we destroy all karmas to merge with God.  On the positive side, the feeling of – “We are different from God”- can be helpful to cultivate devotion towards God. Because, it is not very easy to think ourselves as God and worship!

In practice, we always do our work expecting some result. Consequently, we accumulate more karma! We get bound by the strings of good deeds(punya) and bad deeds(paapa) of these results.  This is called karma bandhana(bondage of karmas).   Every time we take birth to burn our earlier karma, we commit more new karma!This happens endlessly to put us in a miserable birth and death cycle.

How can we escape from this vicious circle? By surrendering to a realized master(Sadguru) to get his Grace.  The Grace of Sadguru awakens the Mother Kundalini to help  us realize our true nature of God.

Awakened Kundalini: Mahadevi, the Supreme Goddess

The moment Kundalini gets awakened by the gentle touch of the spiritual power of Sadguru, She realizes that she is separated from her beloved Lord Shiva at Sahasrara chakra.  Now, She becomes Mahadevi  (Supreme Goddess). Her only goal is to merge with Lord Shiva. Since She is the mother of all powers, no other force can encounter and prevent her from accomplishing her mission.

She starts ascending in Sushumna   destroying all the past karmas  posing as obstacles in her path and cleanses all psychic chakras.  This is the stage when the practitioner is subjected to extreme physical and emotional stress.  During these hard times, devotion to Shridevi and Sadguru‘s Grace together protect the practitioner of Kundalini Yoga.

Finally, Devi Kundalini merges with Lord Shiva at Sahasrara bringing the complete enlightenment to the practitioner. Thus, the awakened Kundalini is nothing but Mahadevi  who brings us liberation(moksha).  She is our kamadhenu(wish-fulfilling cow)!

In summary, Shridevi Kundalini, in her sleeping state as Mahamaya,  helps us to burn our karma in this world. She also facilitates liberation(moksha) from the world by her awakened Mahamaya form.

Now, our eternal (more business like)  question

How can I benefit from both forms of Shridevi?

Very simple. Surrender to Mother Shridevi! Worship her with great devotion and faith. Unfortunately, there is no short-cut. By definition of the word Shridevi, she will surely grant you both material enjoyment(bhoga) and liberation(moksha).  Got it?

Om Namah Shivaya ||

- Kalidas

Lord Shri Krishna Showing his Infinite Form to Arjuna on the Battle Ground(Source: Google)

Folks,

Hari Om! Namaste!!

The topic is very interesting and equally controversial, right? Let us understand it clearly from a typical Upanishad way, i.e. a Reality Fiction. In this story, eternal truths packaged in a contemporary fiction.

Let us hear from the Horse’s Mouth, our great Realized Master Shri Sujnan Giri in a conversation with Jnana Hariputra, founder director of the International Institute of Sanskrit and Hinduism(IISH, pronounced Eesh ) at Hawaii, USA.  We have not met him yet. Right? OK. Let us get introduced to him.

Jnana Hariputra

His original name was John Harrison. Right from his childhood he  was attracted to Hinduism and its spirituality. As he grew up, he studied Sanskrit in India in the traditional way. This gave him access to original truths present in our Great Scriptures such as  Vedas, Upanishads, Agamas etc.

While in India, he also got exposed to teachings of various Great Masters in Non-dualistic philosophy(Advaita Vedanta) established by our Great Master Shri Shankara Bhagavatpadah.  In order to share the treasure of this great Indian knowledge, he established International Institute of Sanskrit and Hinduism back home at Hawaii, US.

He was a staunch devotee of Narayana(Lord Vishnu), the omnipotent deity as mentioned in our Vedic hymn Narayana Sukta. To indicate his strong devotion towards Narayana, he changed his name to Jnana Hariputra(means the eternal knowledge born out of Lord Vishnu).

Every year he used to visit India to see some holy place  and to meet some great Great Master. After hearing about Shri Sujnan Giri, he decided to meet him to clarify his understanding of concepts of Hinduism.

The following is the conversation of Hariputra with  the Great Master Shri Sujnan Giri. After a formal introduction, Shri Sujnana Giri starts the discussion.

Shri Sujnan Giri: “Hari Om! Namaste!! You had some queries?”

Hariputra: “Namaste, Gurudev! Yes. I have some questions on some basic concepts of Hinduism. First of all, why so many Gods in Hinduism?“

Shri Sujnan Giri: “Why not? What is wrong? Let me answer with another question: If you go to a restaurant, how many items would you expect on the menu? One or many? More is good, right?”

Hariputra: “Absolutely. We would like to have more items on a restaurant menu.  It helps us to choose an item that we like from many available options. More options, more probability to match people’s  different tastes: some like it sweet, some hot!”

Shri Sujnan Giri: “You answered your own question now   Let me explain. Our Sanatana Dharma(Hinduism) also gives you option of millions of deities to suit your specific nature. Some devotees like a peaceful deity like Lakshmi, some others like a fierce form of Shridevi, viz. Kali, wearing a garland of heads.

Some connoisseurs of beauty would like to worship Shridevi as Lalita Mahatripura Sundari(Supremely beautiful Goddess). Many others want  to adore luxurious and magnificent Lord Vishnu. But, some others are more pleased with simple Lord Shiva sitting and meditating on the Himalayas!

If you love animals, we have some deities with animal faces too. e.g. elephant-headed Lord Ganesha , Lion-headed Lord Narasimha(a Lord Vishnu’s form), Lord Karthikeya(worshiped as Divine serpent) and so on.

The choice is virtually limitless! You can pick your favorite deity to match your personality. Think about it. Is it not good to have many deities?”

Hariputra: “Of course, Sir! I am getting it now. Can you explain it more?”

Shri Sujnan Giri: “Fine. Let me give another example. When it comes to wearing dresses, there is no one size fits all. Right? Everybody has specific requirements like color, design, fitting, texture of the cloth(soft, hard etc.) and so on. Likewise our Sanatana Dharma also gives you several options to access the same One Universal Self. Our Great Vedas say:

Ekam Sat, Viprah bahudha vadanti |
Meaning: The Absolute Truth (Universal Self) is One; Wise people pray in different ways.  Got it now? “

Hariputra: “Are all the deities equal in their power?”

Shri Sujnan Giri: “All are equal. But, some are more equal! “

Hariputra: “Gurudev! I did not understand. What do you mean by that? I am completely confused now. Please elaborate.”

Shri Sujnan Giri: “There are mainly two types of deities: principal and subsidiary. The principal deities are eternal and are not subjected to life cycle of the universe. In fact they control everything in the universe and beyond. According to our Great Master Shri Shankara Bhagavatpadah, there are five principal Vedic deities, Lord Surya(the Sun God), Lord Ganesha, Shridevi Parvati, Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu.

Other deities  like Indra, Kubera,Vayu, Agni and demigods like Yaksha, Kinnara and others are subsidiary. They are created by principal deities to help them run the show. They are subjected to life cycle of the universe. Understood? “

Hariputra: “Now it is getting more complex. Whom to worship for what?”

Shri Sujnan Giri:“OK. It depends on your wish! You may pray subsidiary Gods to achieve specific material goals. e.g. you may worship Lord Kubera to accumulate wealth. These deities can also be the means to merge with the eternal principal deities which are nothing but the Universal Self. If you pray Lord Agni(the Fire God), you can get the Highest Knowledge to help you with getting the liberation(moksha) too. Got it?”

Hariputra: “Understood somewhat now. Then, what is special about principal deities that you mentioned?”

Shri Sujnan Giri: “As discussed, principal deities are eternal, beyond the universe. They can be prayed to achieve any of your goals, either material or spiritual. They are the means and  the ends to moksha. In other words, they are the final refuge for everything. Therefore, needless to mention: worshiping the principal deities is highly recommended for everybody.”

Hariputra: “Now I understood it clearly! But, I have another question. I am a devotee of Lord Vishnu. I heard that you mainly worship Lord Shiva. Are you saying – Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva are the same?”

Shri Sujnan Giri: “Yes! All deities are fundamentally one and the same. That is what the earlier quotation from the Great Vedas, really meant. So, Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu are the names and forms referring to the same formless Universal Self“

Hariputra: “Got it. Could you please give an example from the Hindu Scriptures?”

Shri Sujnan Giri: “OK. Let us take Shri Vishnu Sahasranama (1008 names of Lord Vishnu). You may be very surprised to hear this: many names of Lord Shiva that are in Shri Shiva Sahasranama( i.e. 1008 names of Lord Shiva) also appear in Shri Vishnu Sahasranama. e.g.

• Vishwa – The world
• Sthanu – Stable
• Shiva – Very auspicious
• Shambhu – Born from auspicious
• Aditya – One who enlightens everything

Notice that even the names like Shiva, Shambhu which are typically used for Lord Shiva are also appearing in the list of Lord Vishnu’s names!  The reverse is also true: Typical Lord Vishnu’s names are in Shiva Sahasranama as well, e.g. Krishna(attractive), Suresha(Lord of Gods), Janardhana(birthless) and so on. What does it tell you? It declares loudly that – Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva are one and the same. Clear now?”

Hariputra: “Splendid! It is really an amazing revelation to me! Is there any other example showing the oneness of many deities?”

Shri Sujnan Giri: “Of course. Greatest Sanskrit Poet Kalidasa wrote a famous shloka Vagarthaviva as the prayer in the beginning of his epic Raghuvamsha. One shloka addresses many deities giving more than 25 meanings!

In that shloka directly or indirectly he prays, Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, Devi Saraswati, Shri Lakshmi Devi and Shri Pravati Devi. Thus, praying many deities from one shloka means that all the deities are one and the same. What a great spiritual message from the Greatest Poet Kalidasa!”   

Hariputra: “Sir, that was a brilliant explanation! I understood it clearly beyond any iota of doubt: all the Gods are One and the same. It is great that Hinduism offers us millions of options to address our specific nature to worship the same One Universal Self. We just need to pick our deity and pray everyday. I have another question, Gurudev! What is the need to have many Gods in Hinduism?”

Shri Sujnan Giri: “This is a very good question, indeed. As discussed above, in Hinduism, every deity has been allocated to preside over a particular function.  In other words, the administrative power is decentralized. For example, Lord Brahma creates the world, Lord Vishnu sustains it and finally Lord Shiva annihilates everything to himself.

Lord Ganesha is in charge of obstacles. Shridevi Lakshmi is for prosperity and wealth. Shri Devi Saraswati is for learning.  Lord Surya for health. Shridevi Parvati is for power. Lord Karthikeya presides over skills and creativity. The list goes on. Each deity has specific mantras and rituals of worship to propitiate it.

We can worship a specific deity to achieve a particular goal. e.g. Lord Ganesha is worshiped first, before we start any work to get his help to complete the task without any hitches or obstacles. These deities are just forms of the Universal Self. One can access the Universal Self by worshiping any one of these. Got it now?”

Hariputra: “Yes Sir.This question has been haunting me for many years. Thank you very much for your crystal clear answer! I am very fortunate to know it.”

Shri Sujnan Giri: “Fine. May the Almighty’s blessings be with you!”

Hariputra saluted the Great Master Shri Sujnana Giri and left.

He understood. Thus, He understood.

Note: Please remember that this is a Reality Fiction. The story and all the characters are imaginary. Do not search the Internet to find out more about these personalities or the institute. Just kidding!

Om Namah Shivaya ||

- Kalidas

Hamsa (Swan) Symbolism: Universal Self (Paramahamsa) Reflected as Individual Self (Hamsa) in all of us.

Hari Om! Namaste!!

This is a vagartha article.  In other words, we will discuss a word and its deeper meanings. If you have studied Indian philosophy, especially Upanishads,  in some or the other instance, you would have seen a mention of the word Soham.

Just like holy Hindu sacred syllable Om, the word Soham also has several esoteric connotations. With Guru’s Grace on our side, we will attempt to provide a drop of nectar from the ocean of meanings of the great mantra Soham.  Are you ready to enjoy the taste? Fine. Let us get started!

Meaning #1: I am He

Soham is a Sanskrit word  formed by two words: Sah (he) and Aham(I). By Sanskrit grammatical rules of sandhi(fusion of two words), these two words are combined to give Soham. What is the meaning then? Simple.

Soham means He I (am)  or I am He.

It is the answer to the great philosophical question: Koham?( “Who am I?”). As discussed earlier, real myself  is nothing but Individual Self.  Now another question: “Who is He then?” That He is none other than the greatest force that controls everything, that is Brahman or Universal Self. With this understanding the meaning of Soham now becomes:

Soham means my Individual Self is Universal Self.

This is the highest no-dual philosophy taught by Shri Shankara Bhagavatpadah as proclaimed by our Upanishads and Vedic Scriptures. We are God. Our real Self(real “I”) is nothing but God. We cannot understand this eternal truth due to ignorance. Our Supreme Spiritual Masters help us by removing the ignorance to realize our true Individual Self that is not different from God.

Meaning #2: Breathing

Soham is breathing process. So, it is the basis of our life. Our inhalation makes the sound “Soooo” and exhalation is “ham”. Some masters identify it in the reverse way: Sooo on exhalation and ham on inhalation. Both are equally valid. They are same, just like Shiva and Shakti(vide infra). Each and every breath reminds us the non-dual principle of Vedas, we are not different from God.

Sometimes, Soham is called Hamsa mantra also. Some Scriptures regard incoming breath as ham and exhalation as sah. Although, the word Aham gets shortened to ham,  the meaning remains the same. Also, in Sanskrit Hamsa means a white swan that symbolizes the Individual Self.

Thus, non-dual awareness of “I am the Universal Self ” is intricately connected with our breathing. This is why focusing our attention on the breath is an extremely powerful technique to go into a deep meditation. We can connect with the our real nature of all powerful Universal Self by via Soham i.e. breathing!  Caution: Any focusing on breathing or chanting Soham must be done under the supervision of an experienced master.

Meaning #3: Ajapa Japa (no chanting, but chanting!)

Our breathing itself chants  Soham  as  mantra automatically for us.  All we need to do is to bring our attention to it to transcend ourselves into a meditative state. How? The power of all mantras, Shridevi transcends us to a Samadhi state. Since Soham is chanted involuntarily in breathing it is also called Ajapa japa(no chanting by us, but automatic chanting by itself!) or Ajapa  Gayatri.

Meaning #4: Shiva and Shakti (Tantric Perspective)

As discussed above Soham is formed by two words: Sah (He) and Aham(I). He is Shiva . Every Sanskrit letter or word is loaded with immense power of Shridevi. Aham is the collective power of letters A to Ha in Sanskrit alphabet, i.e. Parvati.

It means that, the power of Shiva and Parvati present in our inhalation and exhalation. In other words, Shiva and Shakti form breathing that sustains our lives! As described by the greatest poet Kavikulaguru Kalidasa, Shiva and Parvati are like parents; they protect us.

Along the similar lines, here is another tantric perspective. Sah is Shiva.  Aham is Shiva’s “I” awareness which is also called Vimarsha in our tantras.  So, Soham means Shiva and his power Parvati (Shakti).

Meaning #5: Yoga, Merging with the Universal Self

Sah  is He(Universal Self a.k.a God) and Aham is I. We think that we are separate from God due to ignorance. The moment we get the touch of Guru‘s(Master’s) Grace, we realize that we are not at all different from God. By the Grace, we actually merge with the God by real real yoga.

Similarly, merging two words Aham (I) with Sah (God), we get Soham.  In other words, Soham implies the process of merging ourselves with the God, i.e. real traditional yoga.

How can we understand the real meaning of Soham?

Actually, Soham is a very mystical word.  The meaning of Soham cannot be clearly understood just by reading; one has to realize Soham by experience through practice of traditional yoga with the help of a realized master(Sadguru).

Why? As discussed earlier, Soham is nothing but Shiva and Shakti together. We need to merge with Shiva and Shakti. Soham itself is the Highest Knowledge.  So, the realization of Soham is the greatest purpose of life. We hope that the message is crystal clear now.

Om Namah Shivaya ||

- Kalidas

Fun and Funny! An Advanced New Age Yoga Pose!!   (Source: Google)

Brick is part of a house.
But, it cannot be called a house!
Asana is a part of yoga
But, it cannot be called yoga!
Know the difference, Asana is not yoga. || 1 ||

Step is part of a ladder
But, it cannot be called a ladder!
Asana is a step, in the ladder of yoga
To access the Universal Self!
Know the difference, Asana is not yoga. || 2 ||

Asana is a milestone, on the road of yoga
But, milestone cannot be the road,
To reach the ultimate destination,
Which is the Universal Self!
Know the difference, Asana is not yoga. || 3 ||

Asana is a seat; yoga is the vehicle
Seat cannot be the vehicle,
To take you to the final Abode,
Which is the Universal Self!
Know the difference, Asana is not yoga. || 4 ||

Taste is side-effect of eating,
Quenching hunger is the goal!
Healing is side-effect of yoga,
Merging with Universal Self is the goal
Know the difference, yoga is not for health. || 5 ||

Why that daily circus, practicing  asanas?
Why that huff and puff  by pranayama ?
Why that cleansing by vasti and dhauti ?
Why that focus on mind by dharana ?
Know that difference, in Kundalini yoga.* || 6 ||

Prepare your Self, by preparing yourself
Surrender to Shridevi and Shri Sadguru,
Get Shaktipat by their kind Grace!
Practice Kundalini Yoga to realize -
“No! that difference, doesn’t exist: between you and God!” || 7 ||

* Important Note:
We respect all our traditional yoga paths and their Great Masters. However, the comments in the above verse seems to apparently contradict  our fundamental policy. Right?

Here is the clarification to understand it in the correct perspective. In short: a part cannot be the whole! Our effort here is to suggest that practicing a single step may not lead us to  the real goal of yoga.

Moreover, our intention of the poem is to highlight the ease of Kundalini Yoga vis-a-vis other yoga paths. In Kundalini Yoga, needed asanas or bhandhas or pranayama breathing happens automatically as decided by Supreme Mother Shridevi Kundalini.  Since  our Divine Mother Kundalini makes the yoga happen, no need to struggle at all! Just trust Her and your Guru; you are guaranteed to achieve the real goal of yoga.

We hope our intention and message is very clear now.

Om Namah Shivaya ||

- Kalidas

A Great Realized Master Gracing the Highest Knowledge of Upanishads to a Qualified Disciple (Source: Google)

Folks,

Hari Om! Namaste!!

As you already know, our main theme of Rudraksha Yoga is the Highest Knowledge. So, we are starting this important series of articles that deals with the teachings of the Highest Knowledge in our Great Scriptures, the Upanishats(Also, Upanishads).  For all beginners, there is a need for some introduction and elaboration on Upanishats.

First of all, we need to clearly understand the meaning of the title of this series – Great Upanishat’S peaks. What is special about it?

Vagartha of Great Upanishat’S peaks

As usual, there are many meanings.

• Meaning #1: Great Upanishat’s Peaks : Great Upanishat’s Highest teachings(peaks).  This also implies that our Upanishats themselves are Great and their teachings are also Great like peaks of knowledge.
• Meaning #2: Great Upanishat Speaks : In other words, our Great Upanishat speaks to us on(or teaches)  the Highest Knowledge. Here the word Great qualifies Upanishat.
• Meaning #3: Upanishat’s Great Peaks: It deals with Great Peaks of Highest Knowledge taught in the Upanishats.  In this arrangement, the adjective Great qualifies Peaks or teachings. In other words, the article deals with great teachings picked from our Upanishats.

What are Upanishads? Why are they regarded as the Greatest Scriptures, all over the world?

Our Great Scriptures Upanishats are the store-houses of the Highest Knowledge. They are the last parts of our Holy Vedas. Hence, they are sometimes referred to as Vedanta(end part of the Vedas).

Upa-nishat is a Sanskrit word which literally means “sitting closer” to listen attentively to the teachings on the Highest Knowledge by the Realized Masters(Maharishis).  They discuss pure non-dualistic philosophy(Advaitha)  which says our Individual Self is same as the Universal Self. In other words, our real us in us is nothing but God!

Upanishads are 108 in number. Out of them, ten upanishads are considered as principal upanishads  on which our Great Master Shri Shankara Bhagavatpadah has written commentaries to clarify their meaning.

In most of the Upanishats, the teachings are delivered in a conversation  between a Great Master and worthy disciples in a story line. The Upanishads teach us only the Highest Truths in a lucid manner without getting into religious rituals etc. Therefore, they appeal to every human being who is in search of the Ultimate Truth.  That is why they are great and are highly respected around the globe, irrespective of their cultural or religious affiliations.

Who are the teachers of the Truth in the Upanishats?

The teachers are our Great Realized Masters. They are referred to as Maharishis(Great Sages). They are omniscient(all-knowing) Masters who have climbed the greatest peaks of the Highest Knowledge and speaking from the Highest level of knowledge. In some cases, deities like Lord Yama(God of Right path and Death), Lord Jatavedas(Holy Fire God) themselves teach the Greatest Truths to us.  Can you ask for more?

The Great Masters talk with authority and command from their own experience. They deal only with the Ultimate Truth. They have already walked the talk. In our Upanishads, they are just talking the walk  on the journey to the Ultimate Truth to help other travelers.

They speak only the Truth. So, whatever they speak naturally comes true or it is the Truth. They share these Highest Truths only with qualified and worthy people. If the disciples are not ready yet, the Masters ask them to go back and prepare themselves to receive the Highest Knowledge!

Who are the Students?

They are the genuine seekers of the Ultimate Truth with extreme urge and curiosity to know the Truth. Simple answers do not convince them. So, they ask very intelligent questions to the Great Masters about the Truth. The Masters give them the  final authoritative answer. Not only that, they challenge the disciples to test these truths for the validity before accepting!

Hats off to the knowledge of our Great Masters! Let us pay our humble and respectful salutations to them. May they bestow their Grace and great knowledge to us.

Fine. Come along and learn!  Let us  taste the nectar of teachings from our Great Scriptures Upanishads.

Are you still awake? It is time to wake up now! Just kidding Are you ready to take the your call? OK.

The Wake up Call

Uttishtata! Jagrata! Prapya Varaan nibodhata !
Kshurasya dhaaraa nishitaa duratyayaa durgam pathah tatkavayo vadanti || – Katha Upanishat 1.3.14

Meaning: Arise! Awake! Approach venerable teachers to know the Ultimate Truth. The wise men say: The path is like a razor’s edge; tough to walk.

Exposition: It is a wake up call from our Upanishat to know the Ultimate Reality. It also suggests us to learn from Realized Masters. Since the road is like a razor’s edge and difficult to travel, we need to take the guidance and support of Realized Masters.

Esoteric Meaning:   First of all, why that wake up call? Because our Kundalini is sleeping! The words Wake up, awake indicate awakening of Shridevi Kundalini. How do we go about it? By the Grace of the Realized Masters.

Prapya varan nibodhata means go to the Realized Masters to awaken your Mother Kundalini by their Grace. “Road is like a razor’s edge“ indicates that the path of Kundalini Yoga is intrinsically risky and difficult to travel. So, we definitely need the Grace and guidance of a Realized Master.

It is very abstract. I am unable to understand. What is your suggestion?

Just reading these will not give you the right understanding! Experience it and convince yourself. As Upanishats themselves declare: approach a Sadguru to get the Grace. You can understand everything by that Grace.

In Shrimad Bhagavadgita also Lord Shrikrishna echoes the same:

Tadviddhi pranipaatena pariprashnena sevaya|
Upadekshyanti te jnanam jnaninah tatva darshinah | – Gita 4.34

Meaning: (Arjuna!) The Realized Masters give you the knowledge of the  the Ultimate Truth. Know that Truth by respecting, serving  and asking them!

In any case, we suggest you to read all the articles in this series, even if you do not understand fully. Don’t be discouraged. If you are genuinely interested, since the teachings are the powerful divine Truths, they will mystically guide you to the right path to understand them when the time is ripe sometime in your life.

Is it clear? Go it now?

Om Namah Shivaya ||

- Kalidas

A Disciple and His Great Master in a Conversation on the Highest Knowledge in Upanishat (Source: Google)

Folks,

Hari Om! Namaste!!

It is a very interesting question, is it not?  This is the exact question that is asked and answered in detail in Kena Upanishat. This Upanishat explains by whom everything works. In Sanskrit, Kena means ‘by whom’.  Fine. Can we go to the questions, now?

Kenoshitam patati preshitam manah? Kena pranah prathamah praiti yuktah? |
Kenoshitam vachamimam vadanti? chakshuh shrotram ka u Devo yunakti? || – Kena Upanishat, Mantra 1.1

Meaning: By whose will and direction mind lights on  its objects? By whom urged the first breath goes forth? By whom urged people speak the words? Who directs the eye and the ear?

Insights:
Human mind and body system is an amazing machine. It works  so smoothly by careful balancing act. Many organs like heart, brain, stomach, etc. apparently work involuntarily. Is that really so? Does some other force help them to function? These fundamental questions are being asked here by the disciple.  Further, here are the questions in the above Upanishat mantra:

• It seems like, our mind, pretty much independently desires to think and direct itself to give us thoughts.  But, it is not so. Then the question is: Who desires and directs our mind to work?

• We are all alive because of breathing.  Right? When was the last time we focused our attention to breathing? When climbing a staircase?   Jokes apart, we actually take our breathing granted when we are living! It looks like breathing happens without anybody’s assistance. But, it is really not so.  Just think for a moment: Who really starts our first breath to make us alive ? Who sustains it so that we can breathe continuously without any effort?

• We talk almost spontaneously and effortlessly. Apparently, we believe that speech is generated automatically. Actually, it is not so. Then, by whose command words come out? or Who generates words and controls our speech?

• We see with our eyes and hear using our ears. Who directs the function of these organs so that they do their respective jobs?

In summary, who is the real director of our body and mind machinery? Who starts, sustains and stops the function of organs such as mind, speech, eye and ear? Who puts everything into their respective functions?

Very important and great questions indeed! Entire Kena Upanishat is devoted to answer these. The devoted disciple(Shishya) asks these very fundamental questions to a Great Sage(Maharishi). The Master bestows the authoritative answer.

Asking the right questions is the most important first step in knowing anything. This why the disciple must be qualified enough to ask relevant questions to understand the answers clearly.

Are you eager to know the answer? OK. We will try to give an excerpt  for you. Be attentive! Our Great Master replies in the next mantra.

Shrotrasya shrotam manaso mano yat vacho ha vachagm sa u pranasya pranah |
Chakshushasya chakshuratimuchya dheerah pretyasmallokadamritaa bhavanti ||            – Kena Upanishat, Mantra 1.2

Meaning: It is that which is ear of the ear, mind of the mind, speech of the speech, life breath of the life breath, eye of the eye . By abandoning(the sense of ‘I’  in these) and departing from this world, the wise become immortal.

Insights: What a beautiful statement by our Maharishi! That Brahman (also known as Universal Self, God, Paramatma etc.)  gives the capability for the ear to listen. That force which is in everything, beyond everything  and controls everything is called the Brahman by our Great Masters in Upanishads.

He is the ear of the ear. Otherwise, ear cannot listen and it becomes deaf! Similarly, eye of the eye: eye cannot see without That Brahman. In other words, the Brahman makes the eye function. Otherwise, eye becomes blind! Moreover, mind cannot think without the assistance of Brahman.   Very interesting!

Similarly, other components of our mind and body system like life breath and speech do not function without the help and command of That Force called Brahman.   It is That Force of Brahman  that makes everything work including so called involuntary systems like mind.

To summarize, apparently we control(at least, we think so!) many organs of our body like hands, legs etc. But, what about involuntary organs like mind? Who makes every organ work? The answer is: It is That Force of Brahman which makes every organ work. Thus, the Brahman directs and controls everything.

Knowing this Truth, we should not attach ourselves with our body and organs. Because, our real us in us is  not the body or some organ. We need to know that eternal Brahman beyond our body and mind, who commands and controls  everything. We can only  know it clearly by our own experience by merging with it. Thus, we can become immortal.

I am curious! How can we experience Brahman?

A Great question! But, simple answer: Prepare yourself. Practice traditional yoga by the Grace of a Realized Master. You can easily experience it! In fact,  Mundaka Upanishat also says the same:

Tadvijnaartham sa Gurumevabhigacchet samitpanih Shrotriyam Brahmanishtam | – Mundaka Upanishat, Mantra 1.2.12

Meaning: To know that Truth(Brahman) he approaches a Guru(Master), who is well-versed in the Vedas and realized the Brahman, holding holy firewood in his hand.  It commands that one has to approach a Realized Master with reverence to know that Brahman. Got it?

What a great revelation of the eternal Turths in Upanishads from our Great Masters! Our respectful salutations to them for their Highest Knowledge.

Note: As you can see, it is very challenging or almost impossible to understand Upanishads directly without referring to any commentary. So, while interpreting mantras in Upanishads, we followed the traditional commentary, Shankara Bhashya  of our Great Master Shri Shankara Bhagavatpadah.

Om Namah Shivaya ||

- Kalidas

Lord Ardhanarishwara – An Epitome of Oneness of Lord Shiva and Sridevi Parvati (Shakti)

Folks,

Hari Om! Namaste!!

This is  a short post, unlike the earlier one. If you are our regular reader, you may be thinking with a sigh: Oh my God! What a great relief!   Just kidding!

Here is another conVerse on the nature of oneness of Shiva and Shakti. This is our humble offering with devotion, to the feet of the eternally united: Lord Shiva and Shridevi Parvati.

A ConVerse is a conversation in a simple verse to deliver some important message directly to yourself.  Relish, understand and have fun! OK. What are we waiting for? Let us get  started!

Shiva and Shakti are One and together
They are not different, to get together. || 1 ||

Shiva and Shakti, are like eyes – you see!
They appear two, but, they work as one! || 2 ||

Shiva and Shakti, are like ears – you hear!
They appear two, but, they work as one! || 3 ||

Shiva and Shakti, are like Sun and rays
They appear two, but, are not separate! || 4 ||

Shiva and Shakti, are like water and tide
They appear two, but, are not separate! || 5 ||

Shiva and Shakti, are like fire and heat
They appear two, but, are not separate! || 6 ||

Shiva and Shakti, are like ice and chill
They appear two, but, are not separate! || 7 ||

Shiva and Shakti, are like you and shadow
They appear two, but, are not separate! || 8 ||

Shiva and you, are like fire and flame
You appear two, but, are not separate! || 9 ||

Om Namah Shivaya ||

- Kalidas

Shridevi  Lalita Mahatripura Sundari! Our Salutations to You! (Source: Google)

Folks,

Hari Om! Namaste!!

In this article, we are fortunate to explore one of the most esoteric and important hymns, viz.  Soundarya Lahari, composed by our Great Master Shri Shankara Bhagavatpadah.

Before we begin, let us salute the Great Mother Shridevi for her divine blessing:

Mahatripura sundareem muhur namaskurmahe |
Meaning: We salute Devi Tripura Sundari, who is the most beautiful in three worlds(swarga, martya and paatala), again and again(for her Grace).

Lalita Mahatripura Sundari and Soundarya Lahari

Shri Mahatripura Sundari(also known as Devi Lalita) is the most beautiful form of Shridevi.  In this form, Shridevi is worshiped by Shrividya(method of worshiping Devi Lalita) using yantra(mystical diagram), Shri Chakra with various mantras and rituals. Soundarya Lahari is an important hymn used in the system of Shrividya.

What is Soundarya Lahari? Why is it important in Shridevi’s worship?

Soundarya Lahari is a powerful divine prayer(stotra) partly revealed and partly composed by Shri Shankara Bhagavatpadah to express the devotion and praise the beauty of Devi Mahatripura Sundari. This stotra is a devotional hymn loaded with  beautiful literary ornaments(alankaras).  It has more than thirty two commentaries on it by famous spiritual Masters. That alone says it all about its extraordinary significance!

Each shloka (verse) is an extremely powerful mantra and has deeper tantric meanings and effects. Every shloka has its own yantra(mystical diagram) and specific method of chanting along with offerings to please Tripura Sundari Devi to achieve a definite goal as described in our Scriptures.

Soundarya Lahari has one hundred shlokas in total. First 41 shlokas are together called Ananda Lahari(Wave of Bliss).  They deal with Shrividya way of worship that  includes construction Srichakra diagram, Kundalini Yoga and mantras(including a powerful fifteen syllable mantra of Shri Lalita Mahatripura Sundari called panchadshakshari mantra). This is why this hymn is of paramount importance in the worship of Shri Lalita form of Shridevi.

The next 59 shlokas(viz. Shlokas 42-100) form the second part called Soundarya Lahari. This section describes the beauty of Shridevi from head to toe in finer details, exhausting almost all literary ornamentation(alankaras) in Sanskrit Langauage!  In practice, however, entire hymn of 100 slokas is referred to as Soundarya Lahari(Wave of Beauty).

Popular Legends on Soundarya Lahari

One of the most popular stories, goes like this.  Once Shri Shankara Bhagavatpadah visited Kailasa, the abode of Lord Shiva. He saw Soundarya Lahari stotra written on the wall. He started reading. Lord Ganesha observed it and started rubbing the shlokas from the bottom!

Ultimately, Shri Shankara could read and memorize only 41 shlokas. He went and complained to Lord Shiva. The Lord said that Soundarya Lahari is one of the secret and most powerful hymns. So, it cannot be shared as a whole in the human world. He suggested Shri Shankara Bhagavatpadah to compose the rest of the 59 shlokas to make up to 100 shlokas.

Other version of the legend says that Lord Shiva himself gave the manuscript of Soundarya Lahari to Shri Shankara Bhagavatpadah during his visit to Lord’s abode, i.e. Kailasa. When Bhagavatpadah was coming out, the guard Nandi snatched a part (containing 42-100 shlokas) of the manuscript from Bhagavatpadah.

When Bhagavatpadah reported this incident to Lord Shiva, he smiled  and said that the hymn is extremely powerful. So, it cannot be given in its entirety.  The Lord asked Bhagavatpadah to compose the rest of the shlokas of the hymn.

Two things are common and certain from the above discussion. Soundarya Lahari is a very powerful and secretive hymn of divine origin. Our Great Master Shri Shankara Bhagavatpadah is the Seer and partly the author of Soundarya Lahari.

Now we have a question:

We understood the importance of Soundarya Lahari. Can we have some flavor of this mystical and powerful hymn?

Why not? Please wait until the next post Hold your horses!

We will be discussing some selected verses(shlokas) in future post.  Soundarya Lahari is a mystical hymn. So, we believe that it is possible for us to write on this hymn only by Shridevi’s wish and her command. We pray for her blessing.

Since we are not initiated practitioners, we can give a simple meaning of shlokas based on our understanding to benefit everybody. In other words, we are not qualified to provide deeper spiritual and tantric perspective inherent in these Shlokas. Shridevi flashes the deeper meanings of these shlokas only to the privileged followers of Shrividya tradition.

Hence, the exposition is an attempt to help our intellectual understanding to unleash original  literary glamor and imagination of Shri Shankara Bhagavatpadah. Even this meaning is fully accessible only to the real devotees of Shridevi. So, don’t complain if you could not understand. Pray Shridevi. She will make you understand!

We believe that exposition of this hymn is an opportunity for us to express  our strong devotion towards Shridevi. She herself is Vak(speech), living as the power in the words united with meaning as Lord Shiva like Vagartha. Actually,  every word is written by her own inspiration and Grace.

For readers, it is an opportunity to taste the nectar of these shlokas with devotion, that adore the greatness and glory of Shridevi’s unmatched powers and incomparable celestial beauty. Be ready to relish!

Note to our regular readers:
We will posting the meaning of selected shlokas only. That too in no particular order. The postings also happen randomly as convenient to us. But, here is something predictable: As a mark of deep devotion and respect, the posts will be scheduled on favorite days of Shridevi, i.e. Fridays or Tuesdays.

Format of upcoming Soundarya Lahari Posts:
The format of these posts goes like this: Original romanized shloka, meaning, benefits of traditional worship using the shloka, our insights and notes.

According to Scriptures, each shloka can be used to achieve a particular material/spiritual benefit as described in the Shrividya tradition with proper rituals, mantras and offerings.

The benefits will be given only to introduce our readers to the power of Soundarya Lahari. However, this is not to inspire anybody to take up any type of practice(e.g. chanting) immediately without guidance by a traditional Master.

Practical Warning: The shlokas of Soundarya Lahari are very mystical, tantric and potent. Kids, do not try it at home! This hymn should never chanted without proper initiation and guidance from a sampradayavit(who knows the Shrividya tradition) Master. The psychological effects(or damages) of unguided practice can be immeasurable and not predictable.

Always remember: Never start any powerful tantric/spiritual practice just by reading the benefits to avoid any potential harmful fall-out.  So, take this advise seriously.

Coming up next: Soundarya Lahari (Wave of Beauty), Shloka #1

Om Namah Shivaya ||

- Kalidas

Lord Ardhanarishwara Shows the Oneness of Shiva and Shakti (Image from Google)

Folks,

Hari Om! Namaste!!

Lord Shiva and Shridevi (a.k.a Shakti) are the divine couple who are eternally united as One. There is absolutely no difference between them. Then, why do we perceive them to be different? This is the exact question we are trying to answer in this post.  Well, we will tell that- not by a long article; neither by a story.  Got an idea! Yes, by a conVerse!

We offer this conVerse at the lotus feet of Lord Shiva and Shridevi.  Taste it and understand it.  Enjoy and have fun!  Shall we begin our conVersation now? OK. 

Ocean and river: what is the difference?
one is still and the other is moving!
one is seated and the other set free
But, both are water, which is same! || 1 ||

Shiva and Shakti: what is the difference?
one is still and the other on the move!
one is seated and the other is free
But, both are same, the divine Force! || 2 ||

When water is still, in a vast space
You call it an ocean, the same water!
When water is flowing, in a stream
You call it a river, the same water! || 3 ||

When Force is potent, in a vast space
You call it Shiva, the same power!
When Force is flow, in a rapid current
You call it Shakti, the same power!  || 4 ||

Then:
What is the root, of all this difference !?

Name and form, that brings us difference
Word and view, what makes it different!
Know in real! They are One and same
Just like You, and the God you pray! || 5 ||

Got the message of non-duality? Fine!

Om Namah Shivaya ||

- Kalidas

Lord Ardhanarishwara, epitome of oneness of Lord Shiva and Shridevi (Credit: Missrosen)

Shivah shaktya yukto yadi bhavati shaktah prabhavitum
Na chedevam devo na khalu kushalah spanditumapi |
Atah tvam aradhyam Hari-Hara-Virinchadibhir api
Pranantum stotum vaa katham akrta-punyah prabhavati ||
– Soundarya Lahari 1

Benefits: Successful accomplishment of all objectives; All prosperity; Overcoming all obstacles.

Meaning: Joined with Shakti(thyself), Lord Shiva is capable of creating the Universe.
Otherwise, the Lord is not be able even to stir.
You are worthy of being adored even by Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva and Lord Brahma.
Therefore, O Goddess! without acquiring great merits, how can a person be able to salute you?

Exposition: What a great statement of reality! This is the most important opening shloka of Soundarya Lahari. It declares that Shiva and Shakti are one and have to be always together to do anything. They are the parents of the world as prayed in Vagarthaviva Shloka of great poet Kalidasa.

Shridevi is considered as the primordial universal power beyond Hindu Trinity viz., Brahma-Vishnu-Shiva. Since great divine powers worship her, normal human beings like us  should have accumulated great merits to pray her. In other words, it is our great fortune to be a devotee of Shridevi. In fact, we are really blessed to discuss the glory of Shridevi.

The first two lines have several different shades of meanings. Some commentaries provide over 14 interpretations for this important verse! The following is a partial list. 

1. Oneness of Shiva and Shakti: Only with united with Shakti(Shridevi), Lord Shiva can create the Universe. This means that Shiva and Parvati are the parents of the world and are always together.
2. Mystical Diagram, Shrichakra: The mystical diagram Shrichakra represents Shridevi and also the entire universe. Five Shakti triangles and four Shiva triangles together form the crucial part in Shrichakra. So, without Shakti and Shiva triangles, the Shrichakra cannot be constructed!
3. Creation Process: Shiva and Shakti represent Purusha and Prakriti which are male and female aspects respectively. According to Samkhya theory,  union  of Purusha and Prakriti leads to the creation of the universe. So, again it proves that the Lord Shiva and Shridevi are the divine parents of the world.
4. World of Words: According to Tantras, vowels and consonants of Sanskrit alphabet represent the powers of Shakti and Shiva respectively. Only by combining these two we can create the word.  Without combining vowels and consonants, a word cannot be uttered. So, Lord Shiv and Sridevi are intricately connected with a word. As discussed earlier, the world comes to existence just by words.
5. Shakti in word Shiva: The vowel “i” (i is pronounced as in “kit”) is the critical for the word Shiva. It represents Shaki. It gives energy to the word Shiva. Only united with  i, the word Shiva represents Lord Shiva and gets his energy(Shakti) to create the world.
6. Shiva and Spanda Principle of Tantras: According to our Scriptures Tantras, Lord Shiva is the static part of the Universal Self. Shakti is the dynamic portion who manifests herself as spanda(pulsating energy). This is implied by the word spanditumapi (to even stir). In other words, Lord Shiva is the power holder and Shridevi is his Shakti(power).
7. Kundalini Yoga: Shiva means every one of us as Individual Self. Here is the arrangement of words(anvaya): Shivah yadi Shaktya yuktah (syat), tarhi prabhavitum shaktah  bhavati. Only by being united with awakened Mother Kundalini Shakti,  one will be able to evolve spiritually.
   .
   Nachet evam devo na khalu kushalah spanditumapi. Otherwise,  we cannot even move a bit in the spiritual path. In Kundalini Yoga, awakened Mother Kundalini makes the real yoga happen to the practitioner. This suggests that the Kundalini Yoga to be one of the essential means for spiritual evolution.
8. Guru’s Grace and Siddha Yoga: Shiva means every one of us as Individual Self. The arrangement of words is same as earlier, as in #7. But, the meaning is different! Only by uniting with Sadguru‘s Shakti(Grace of the Guru), we can evolve spiritually.
   .
   Otherwise, we cannot even move to make any progress on the spiritual path because of ignorance. The word prabhava is to be interpreted as evolution. The Grace of the Guru eliminates our ignorance to help us identify and realize the Universal Self within ourselves. So, this shloka mandates the necessity of a Guru for spiritual realization.
   .
   In Siddha Yoga(a form of Kundalini Yoga), a Sadguru(Realized Master)  transmits the kind Grace to a worthy disciple via Shaktipat to awaken the divine Mother Kundalini.  Awakened Mother Kundalini  brings about the real yoga to the disciple.
9. Sadguru and his power: In this perspective, Shiva means Realized Master(Sadguru). Arrangement of words is same as in meaning #7.  Only by uniting with Sridevi’s power, i.e. Shakti, Sadguru is able to become source of Grace to awaken Mother Kundalini. Otherwise, Sadguru will not be able to move Mother Kundalini by Shaktipat. How do we get this meaning? Let us understand it clearly.
   .
   The word prabhava is to be interpreted as source of Grace. The word spanditumapi has to be taken as Shri Kundalini Deveem spanditumapi which means “to move the Mother Kundalini “ by Shaktipat. The moment Kundalini Devi gets awakened by Shaktipat, she starts moving towards Sahasrara to meet her Lord, Shiva. As we know, by definition, Shaktipat means the descent of Shakti(Shridevi’s power) from Sadguru to the disciple to awaken Mother Kundalini. 

OK. Last, but not the least, we have a question!

So, what is the take home from this great verse?

Lord Shiva and Shridevi are One and the same. Shridevi is even prayed by super powers like Hindu Trinity(Brahma-Vishnu-Shiva). As mere mortals, we are very fortunate to pray Shridevi and  get her Grace. Thus, here is the action point for all of us:

Tamaadi Shaktim pranatah sma nityam |
Let us pray that primordial power(Shridevi) always (for Her Grace!).

Om Namah Shivaya ||

- Kalidas

Lord Shiva and Shridevi Parvati : The Divine Parents of the World (Source: Google)

Hari Om! Namaste!!

Here is another conVerse at the feet of Shridevi and Lord Shiva.

It is a hymn to Her!  i.e. our Mother Shridevi. We submit to Her with all humility and devotion. But, one may ask: “Why not a hymn to Him, i.e. Lord Shiva?” Answer: There is no difference between Him and Her! We always pray both of them together indirectly, albeit addressing Shridevi alone. Got it?

In this conVerse, we request Shridevi to continuously guide us in the right direction in all our actions and endeavors. This would help us to be always on the right path.

We trust Her 100%. Since She is the knower of everything*, She is the best person to decide the right path for us. Sometimes She may not give us whatever we want. But, She surely grants us that which we really need!

Potential Benefits of reading this conVerse: If you pray Shridevi with this conVerse with devotion, Her kind Grace ensures that you will always be on the right and the best path chosen by Her! What else do you want?

OK. Come along! Let us pray the magnanimous Mahadevi(Great Goddess) for her divine Grace.

Mother Shridevi !

If you think, that I’m on path of just
Be that Force, at the back of me!            || 1 ||

If you think, that my path is wrong
Block it off,  by your lotus feet!                || 2 ||

If you think, I would do some bad
Be my mom, for this crawling kid!          || 3 ||

If you think, I would do some good
Be that Sun, for the plant to grow!         || 4 ||

If you think, that I  lost my way
Be compass, to guide my  sail!                 || 5 ||

If you think, that I’m thinking bad
Be that fire, for the straw of thought!     || 6 ||

If you think, that I’m thinking  good
Add the fuel, for the lamp to glow!          || 7 ||

If you think, I’m on cross of roads
Put me on, the track you choose!   || 8 ||

Notes: * Knower of everything has some esoteric meanings   :

1. Shridevi is the Individual Self, the real knower in every one of us. It tells you the essence of teaching from our Scriptures Upanishads: That thou art – That Individual Self is real you, same as Shridevi !
2. Shridevi is the Universal Self, who knows all and everything i.e.  things, actions, events etc.  That thou art - That Universal Self is you, Shridevi !
3. From the meanings above, we arrive at the most fundamental principle of Advaitha (non-dual) philosophy: Individual Self is nothing but the Universal Self. In other words, the real you within you is the God which is same as Shridevi!

Om Namah Shivaya ||

- Kalidas

The Divine Mother Shridevi with Hindu Trinity- Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva(Credit: Lightgrid)

Taniyamsam pamsum tava charana-pankeruha-bhavam
Virinchih sanchinvan virachayati lokan avikalam |
Vahatyenam Shaurih katham api sahasrena shirasaam
Harah samkshudhyainam bhajati bhasito-ddhoolana-vidhim ||
- Soundarya Lahari, 2

Benefits: Attracting all the world.

Meaning: Gathering a speck of dust from your lotus feet, the creator Lord Brahma brings the Universe into existence without any imperfection[1];
The sustainer Lord Vishnu somehow supports this universe as Adisesha with his thousand hoods[2].
And Lord Shiva, the destroyer, crushes this dust into powder and rubs it as holy ash(bhasma) all over his body(at the time of dissolution)[3].

Exposition: This shloka adores the unimaginable power and glory of Shridevi. It essentially says that Hindu Trinity Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva function as creator, sustainer and destroyer respectively, by depending on the dust of lotus feet of Shridevi.

Just ponder for a moment. If a speck of dust from Shridevi’s feet has that much might, what could be the power of Shridevi herself? Can’t even guess. It is infinitely large and immeasurable! After all, Shridevi’s name itself is Shakti meaning power, right? She is the Mother of all powers.  No other power beyond Her, period.

Further, the dust of lotus feet  also indicates the Grace of Shridevi. In summary, Brahma-Vishnu-Shiva perform their respective functions by the Grace of speck of dust of lotus feet of Shridevi.

Notes:

1. The creator Lord Brahma is able to create the complex universe with perfection by the Grace of Shridevi. Thus, Shridevi is the bestower of power of creativity to Lord Brahma.
2.  According to Scriptures, there are fourteen worlds in the universe, which includes the Earth. Seven worlds below the Earth are supported by Lord Vishnu himself. Seven worlds up, starting from the Earth, are held by Lord Vishnu as Adisesha. The word kathamapi(somehow) subtly means that the dust which is same as the universe is so powerful that it needs more effort to support it.
   The words holding and the Earth symbolize sustenance and creation respectively. Thus, Lord Vishnu holds the Earth means that he sustains the creation of Lord Brahma.
   The message of the verse is that the dust of lotus feet of Shridevi is equivalent to the entire creation of Lord Brahma, which Lord Vishnu somehow manages to hold and sustain! Hats off to Shridevi’s unmatched power!
3. Lord Shiva smears the bhasma(the sacred ash)  all over his body before performing dissolution. In this shloka, it means that he accumulates the extreme power to annihilate all worlds by smearing the dust of lotus feet of Shridevi!

Words of Beauty: Here are almost rhyming and homo-phonic words pairing up to provide a wonderful rhythm and melody: taniyamsam-pamsum, Virinchih-sanchinvan, bhajati-bhasito. Relish and enjoy!

Let us pray Shridevi with devotion for dust of  compassionate Grace from her lotus feet!

Shri Durgam Devim sharanam aham prapadye |

We take the refuge of divine Mother Shridevi Durga!
Shridevi! Be pleased with our prayers.

Om Namah Shivaya ||

- Kalidas

Great Universal Master Shri Adi Shankaracharya Bhagavatpadah with His Disciples

Folks,

Hari Om! Namaste!!

This is a Vagartha article that unleashes profound esoteric perspectives by delving deeper into meanings of words and message.

Shri Shankaracharya Bhagavatpadah

Shri Shankara Bhagavatpadah was one of Great Masters of our era, who unequivocally established supremacy of our Vaidika Dharma(Practice of the Vedas) over other prevailing atheistic paradigms. He showed the right path at the right time, when people were almost leaving our sacred Vedic duties, mislead by wrong philosophical theories and left-hand practices.

Before we move on to his mystical teaching, let us pray him with devotion for kind blessing to enlighten the meaning of his sweet Graceful words.

Shriti-Smriti-Puranam alayam karunaalayam |
Namami Bhagavatpadam Shankaram Lokashankaram ||

Meaning: We salute Shri Shankara Bhagavatpadah for his kind Grace.  He is compassionate. He is the abode to Scriptures Vedas, Smritis and Puranas. He did auspicious tasks for the good of the Universe.

Contributions of Shri Shankara Bhagavatpadah

There are several. We are unable to discuss them comprehensively. Shri Shankara Bhagavatpadah’s most famous contributions are his commentaries on ten principal Upanishads, Bhagavdgita and Brahma Sutras.  By these elaborate writings, he provided the clear guidance to those who are on the path of the Highest Knowledge.

He also composed several prayers addressed to many deities including Soundarya Lahari, which is one of the most popular and powerful hymns on Shridevi. He summarized his teachings in various stotras(verses) like Charpata panjaraika, Dwadasha Panjarika, Upadesha Panchakam and so on.

Upadesha Panchakam (Five Verses of Secret Teaching)

Upadesha Panchakam (also referred to as Sadhana Panchakam) consists of five verses. It is a nectar of teaching and command to his disciples. Are you still reading? OK. By now, many of us are wondering:

What is the mystical teaching  of Shri Bhagavatpadah?

It is a portion of the first verse of Shri Bhagavatpadah’s composition on his teachings, Upadesha Panchakam. It goes like this:

Vedo nityam adheeyatam taduditam karma swanushteeyatam | - Upadesha Panchakam 1

Regular Meaning: Study the Vedas daily. Perform duties ordained by them diligently. Shri Bhagavatpadah commands us to study the Vedas and to do everything in accordance with them. What a great statement for our Great Master!

Looks like very simple, right? It is not so. Read further to discover more and convince yourself!

To appreciate the verse fully, we need to know a little bit about our holy Vedas. So, let us have a brief discussion on that next.

The Vedas: Sound Form of the Ultimate Reality

As we know, the Vedas are not written. So, they are called Apaurusheya, meaning not authored by human beings. They were experienced and heard by our Rishis (Great Sages) in deep meditation. This why they are also called Shrutis(that which are heard).  They contain mantras which are the sound form of the Absolute.

The Vedas consist of four major portions: Samhita, Brahmana, Aranyaka and Upanishat. First two parts are collectively called Karma Kanda(branch of rituals/work). They deal with the mantras and rituals. They are related to Karma Yoga.
.
Last two parts of the Vedas are together called Jnana Kanda(branch of Knowledge). They deal with inner meanings of Vedic rituals and also the Highest Knowledge. They form the fundamentals of Jnana Yoga.

Deeper Meanings and Insights

After understanding these basics, we are fully equipped now to grasp  esoteric meanings of this mystical statement of our revered Great Master Shri Shankara Bhagavatpadah.

When Great Masters(Gurus) say anything, they choose the words very strategically to imply several shades of deeper interpretations.  As a Great Kashmiri Shaivate Master Shri Abhinavagupta Padah puts it:

Vande vichitrarthapadam chitram taam Gurubharateem |

Meaning: I salute the beautiful speech of the Guru(Master), which contain words to provide wonderful and mystical meanings!

What a great saying! Every word of Guru’s speech is packed with power and extraordinary meaning. Their words are seeds from which a big Banyan tree with branches of different meanings can potentially be grown.

Although, the branches of Banyan tree are different, they still contribute to make a big tree! In the context of speech of Great Masters, many a times, different shades of meanings contribute to strengthen the big picture, i.e. overall meaning. We can easily understand this interesting phenomenon clearly as we go along.

But, for this to happen, we need to pray the Masters to bestow their kind Grace to flash those mystical meanings in our intellect. In this article, we will try to unearth different insights by the Grace of Bhagavatpadah. We need not necessarily be very grammatical in the arrangement of words or form of words(vibhakti, pratyayas etc.). So, purists may please excuse us.

OK. Come along! Let us take a holy dip in the enchanting pond of sacred knowledge!

1. Vedo nityam : The Vedas are eternal. As we discussed above, the Vedas are a form of the Universal Self and are timeless. Here meaning of word nityam is eternal.
2. Vedo nityam tat; Also, tat nityam, Vedah: The Vedas are same as that. What is that? In Upanishads, the word Tat (that) refers to the supreme Brahman(a.k.a God, Universal Self).  Our Master tells us with authority that the Vedas are nothing but God! Period.
3. Vedo nityam adheeyatam: Study the Vedas daily. Here nityam means daily. Since the Vedas consist of mantras, which are the sound form of the Absolute, we need to chant*/study them everyday. This is a form of worship/meditation to merge with the Universal Self. Kimartham? (Why?)
4.  Vedo nityam adheeyatam, Tat uditam: Study the Vedas daily,(then) Individual Self rises.  How do we get this meaning? The Taittiriya Upanishat says: Tat twam asi, i.e. you(Individual Self) are nothing but the Universal Self.
   Why should we rise ourselves? We are same as God. We are nothing but the Universal Self, caged in a body with limited powers due to ignorance and past karmas. We need to rise and merge with God to become God. This is the single most important purpose of yoga and human life. The message is loud and clear: arise from the sleep of ignorance, study the Vedas to rise yourself to God! We need to consider the meaning of uditam as rise. Compare: udita = risen; udaya = rise; sooryodaya = Sun rise etc. 
5. Vedo nityam adheeyatam, (tada) Tat uditam (bhavati), (tasmin twam) swanushteeyatam: Study the Vedas everyday. (Then,) That Highest Knowledge arises(in you). Establish yourself properly (in That) i.e. Universal Self.
   In this shade of meaning, Tat means the Highest Knowledge and the Universal Self.  Here swanushteeyatam means establishing properly in one thing. This  interpretation clearly outlines the path of knowledge(Jnana Yoga).
   Sanskrit word swanustana (root: su + anu + stha ) means establishing oneself properly following certain rules.   In this case, those rules are prescribed in the Vedas. The prefix su to means properly.  The master strategically uses this prefix to advise us to establish in the Self properly and also to follow the Vedas properly. The prefix anu means to follow. It is  used by the Master to command us to follow the Vedas. stha means to establish oneself.
6. Vedo nityam adheeyatam, tat uditam (syat): Study the Vedas daily. That knowledge will arise(automatically within you!). What happens if you study the Vedas? The knowledge of that i.e. the Universal Self arises within you on its own. In other words, study and contemplation of the Vedas bestows us the Highest Knowledge by completely erasing our ignorance.
   So, we need to study the Vedas daily. This phrase inspires us to take up Jnana Yoga to merge with the Universal Self. It also refers to Jnana Kanda, i.e. last two portions of the Vedas, viz. Aranyaka and Upanishat, which deal with the Highest Knowledge.
7. Tat uditam karma swanushteeyatam: Do the work properly as prescribed by the Vedas. Here the word Tat refers to the Vedas.  Contextual meaning of the word uditam is ordained or prescribed. Shri Bhagavatpada commands us to follow Karma Yoga without attaching ourselves to the fruits of the work.
   The word swanushteeyatam means doing properly. So, the properly indicates doing the work by following the desire-less Karma Yoga path, i.e. doing the work without attaching ourselves to the results of the work. This phrase of the great teaching of our Master refers to Karma Kanda portion of the Vedas(viz. Samhita and Brahmana).
8. Vedo nityam adheeyatam, taduditam karma swanushteeyatam  | : Study the Vedas to get the Highest Knowledge to rise yourself and merge with the Universal Self. Also, do the work or rituals as dictated by the Vedas.
   .
   From discussion #6 and #7 above, it is evident that our Great Master refers to all four portions, i.e. Jnana Kanda and Karma Kanda of the Vedas. The esoteric message here is that knowing the Vedas is not enough. But, practicing our duties as prescribed by the Vedas is also equally important. Conversely, we need to practice the duties prescribed by the Vedas to purify ourselves first. Then we are ready to move ahead to achieve the real goal of traditional yoga, i.e.  to access the Highest Knowledge to merge with the Universal Self.
   .
   There are two major paths of yoga, i.e. Jnana Yoga(path of knowledge) and Karma Yoga(path of work/duty). One is for ascetics(sanyasis) and the other for the householders(grihasthas) respectively. So, the entire statement suggests us to integrate both the paths which deal with knowledge and duty to merge with the Universal Self. It also commands that both ascetics and householders must follow the Vedas diligently.

OK. It had been a very long discussion on a simple but profound teaching of our Great Master Shri Shankaracharya Bhagavatpadah. Let us walk the path commanded by the this Great Master with his kind guidance!

* Note: Traditionally, chanting of the Vedas is not for everybody. There are certain restrictions. This is to maintain original phonetics, intonation and rhythm intact. If you are interested, you need to approach an adept Master to check your eligibility first.
However, understanding the teachings of the Vedas by reading the commentaries, translations etc. is recommended for everybody, except chanting. We will not be entertaining any further question or discussion on this.

Om Namah Shivaya ||

- Kalidas