People fear Shani Dev because they are unaware of his nature and role in their life. He evaluates a person’s karma and dharma and accordingly functions in their life. When people suffer, they think they are being punished by shani dev through suffering. Actually there is no such thing. He just facilitates us to catch up with our karma - be it good or bad.
Unable to bear the intensive heat generated by Surya, his wife Sanghya created a clone of herself called Swarna, and asked her to take on her duties as a wife and mother. Swarna carried about all the duties well and even Surya did not realise the difference. Swarna had 5 sons and 2 daughters, she paid more attention to them than the children of Sanghya.
Shani Dev was hungry and asked Swarna for food, she told him once she has made offerings to god, fed the younger children, then he could eat. Shani Dev became very angry and was about to kick Swarna, she saw this an cursed him that his leg would fracture. Shani Dev was frightened and told his father. Shani Dev knew something was not right as a mother would never curse here child for just asking for food. Surya approached Swarna and she told him the truth. Herr curse could not be lifted so Shani Dev had a limp.
It is customary to bathe Shani Dev in oil. This came about in the Ramayana when the Rama Setu was being built the bride between India and Lanka. During the evening when Hanuman was praying Shani Derv presented himself in his dark ugly form, and proclaimed he was the most powerful of the gods, he asked Hanuman to go into battle with his to see who was the strongest. Hanuman politely told Shani Dev to respect him whilst he is in prayer and leave him alone. Shani Dev would not back down and insisted to pick a fight with hanuman. Hanuman lengthened his tail and like a snake coiled it around Shani Dev tightly. Shani Dev could not free himself. Hanuman tightened his tail and Shani Dev was in a lot of discomfort. To rid Shani Dev of his pride Hanuman started hitting Shani Dev against the stones, and he was in a lot of pain, and begged for forgiveness. Hanuman told Shani Dev that he would let him go if he leaves Rama’s devotee alone. Shani Dev promised he would never interfere in the destiny of devotees of hanuman and Rama. Hanuman released Shani Dev from the iron grip of his tail, he humbly asked Hanuman for some oil to ease his pain. Devotees offer Shani Dev oil, as a symbol is easing his pain.
]]>In the Rid-Veda 6.48.17 its says, “Do not trouble tree. Do not uproot or cut them. They provide protection to animals, birds and other living beings”
According to religious scriptures when people plant and care for trees, those are reborn as their children. Those who give trees for charity pleases the gods, which is shown through flowers and fruit. Trees can provide shelter. God has created them for the welfare of living beings. They face the sun and can protect those who come under their shade.
We cannot also discount the number of saints and sages who have offered prayers and been in deep meditation under trees. Trees just keep giving.
During “Vat Savitri” ladies offer prayers to the Banyan tree. It is believed to provide the fulfilment of wishes and provide material gains. According to the Agni Purana, the Banyan tree is symbolic of fertility and can provide help to those who want children.
The leaves of the Banana tree are also used to serve food as they are considered pure and clean. It is also said that the Kalpavriksh known as the wishing tree came from the Samudramanthan. Prayers are offered to the Ashoka tress to end sorrow. Prayers are offered to the Amla tree in the month of Kartik as it is believed that Lord Vishnu resides in this tree. The leaves of the mango tress are used in pujas. Lakshmi, is also found to reside within a tree – the sacred fig tree.
Shitala Ma (the goddess of poxes) is considered to reside within a neem tree. Neem has been used to treat an array of poxes and other illnesses for many centuries, as a result the neem tree is considered sacred.
Rudra, the storm god, and who is now seen as perhaps interchangeable with Shiva, is also linked with the rudraksha tree For this reason, those who worship Shiva will often adorn themselves with mala made with seeds of the rudraksha tree.
It is believed that the trimurti, Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva reside in the Peepal tree. The roots Brahma, the bark Vishnu, and the branches Shiva, one is blessed when offering prayers and water. Also the Tusli plant is greatly revered I wrote a blog on this before which I will share on stories.
Did you know we had a forest Goddess Aranyani? I wrote about her last year check out our blogs Today is internal forest day, our planet needs our trees for many many reasons.
]]>The red colour of the Sindoor is a symbol of feminine energy. Its is not just a tradition or ritual but can also has health benefits. Sindoor is made up of turmeric and lime, and can ease stress and strains keeping the mind cool and the brain alert and active. As the bindi it is placed at the Ajna Chakra close proximity to the brain stimulation focused, concentration and emotional regulation. The parting line is known as Brahmarandhra, the gateway to consciousness.
In astrology the house of Aries known as the, “Mesha Rashi”, this is located in the forehead. Mars which is red in colour is the Lord of Mesha, applying red sindoor is believed to be a symbol of good fortune and auspicious.
This custom has been roots from the Vedic, for peace and a harmonious life with other associated benefits.
]]>Mantras can raise our energies to higher spiritual awareness. Mantras can bring peace and enlightenment, and protect us from negative energies. One of the most powerful and widely used Mantras is the syllable “Om”. Om is the highest and purest mantra. Each Mantra has a literal, hidden or symbolic meaning. Mantras still occupy an important place in Hinduism as the manifestations of divine speech and expression of gods and heavenly knowledge. In Hindu ritual practice and prayers, mantras are used to communicate with gods and invoke their power to achieve certain outcomes.
in Sanskrit “mantra” means to consult, seek advice or help, think or deliberate. In the human body it is the breath in the speech which gives each mantra a verbal form, awakens its hidden power and sends it across the space as sound vibrations to its desired destination. Mantras are divine vehicles which carry the thoughts and prayers of devotees to the heaven and help us to communicate with the gods, to seek their advice and help.
Each mantra will have a seer (rishi) who composed it, a rhythm or meter (Chhanda) which determines its sound, and a deity (devata) who presides over it and manifests when the mantra is correctly pronounced. It also contains a seed syllable (bija) which imparts to it manifesting power (Shakti) and a support (kilakam) which makes it strong or stable until it delivers the intended result.
]]>So what actually is prashad and why do we offer prashad? What I knew and was told growing up is we feed the jai jais. What I have also learnt is just like we have our favourite foods, the deities also have their favourite offerings, which includes certain types of food, we all know that Lord Ganesh Loves his ladoos and modaks… he definitely has a sweet tooth!
“Prasada”, in Sanskrit, meaning “favour” or “grace“ is food and water offered to a deity during puja. It is believed that the deity partakes of and then returns the offering, thereby consecrating it. The offering is then distributed and eaten by the devotees. The blessing of the prashad comes from its having been touched by the deity.
It is believed that the lord is pleased even with the smallest offering with devotion and love. As Krishna says in the Bhagavad-Gita:
“Patram Pushpam Phalam Toyam Yo Me Bhaktya Prayacchati;
Tadaham Bhaktyupahritamasanami Prayatatmanah”
It means that the lord accepts it with a loving heart, a leaf, a flower, a fruit or even water whoever offers with devotion.
Food plays an important role in worship, and the food offered to the deities is thought to bestow considerable religious merit, purifying body, mind and spirit. Prashad can be better called as the sacred food that is to be offered to our deities. It is important for the prashad to be Satvik to maintain its sanctity and therefore it remains positive. Going by the belief, consumption of Prasad will elicit positive vibrations.
]]>So I thought I would investigate the Jai Jais way…
The thread is called a “mauli” or kalva”. Traditionally it is tied to the right wrist of men and the left writs of woman. The meaning behind the scared thread it to invoke the blessing of the trimurthi, Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva, with their wives Saraswati, Lakshmi and Durga.
Seeking blessings from Brahma one is compassionate.
Seeking blessing from Vishnu one gains strength and protection.
Seeking blessings from Shiva ward or negative energies and influences.
The goddesses bless us with: Lakshmi prosperity, Durga strength and Saraswati wisdom.
Scientifically tying the red thread on the wrist can aid our immunity.
This ancient practice dates back to when Vamana (Incarnation of Vishnu) tied the holy thread on King Bali to grant him immorality.
]]>Vahana means that which carries, bears or conveys, which is usually a reference to a vehicle. It is derived from the sanskirt word “vaha” means bearing, carrying. The idea of vehicle or Vahana is rooted in the Vedas. The gods live in the higher worlds. They use the Vahanas to travel from world to world or to visit their devotees and other divinities. When a ceremony is performed upon earth, they descend to the earth in their respective vehicles to receive their offerings.
These vahanas are their constant companions. They represent the strength and beauty of the deity. Each of these animals stands for specific qualities that are in parallel with the image and functions of Hindu deities. I will write on another blog the list of deities and their vahanas as there are so many. The one god I realised that does not have a vahana is Hanuman.. does anyone know why?
Garuda the eagle is the Vahana of Vishnu since he is the protector and agility is an essential quality to have for him. Nandi the Vahana of Shiva represents strength, load-bearing capacity, and virility. Simha the lion is the Vahana of Goddess Durga as Durga is a female and fights fierce wars and the lion indicated courage and feistiness. Hansa is the Vahana of Goddess Saraswati who is the Goddess of knowledge and swan indicates beauty and purity, the qualities to develop knowledge.
Most of the Vahanas of gods and goddesses are worshipped by Hindus devotees with offerings of food and prayers. The relationship between the deity and mount is not as a master and servant, but almost like the body and soul.
The vahanas either animal and birds, representing the several spiritual and psychological forces that each deity carry. The gods use Vahanas for both warfare and travel.
]]>Worshipping Surya Dev one can gain peace of mind and knowledge to achieve success. Also worship to Surya Dev can eliminate negative energies, and keep peace and harmony in the home, improving communication. Overcoming fears and self-doubt.
One of the most important things to offer Surya Dev is water, after sunrise and before sunset. When offering water the vessel must be made of copper. Copper is traditionally used in holy rituals because of its many qualities. The coppers vibrations radiate positive energy making the environment more Satvik. Surya Dev also likes copper.
When offering water hold the vessel in two hands. Other things dear to Surya Dev to offer are vermillion, jaggery, rice, and flowers. Make sure the water does not fall at your feet hold the vessel away from your body. If the sun is hidden behind clouds, make the offering towards the East, at the time the sunrises.
Chanting mantras raises good vibrations, making you feel present with your surroundings. You can chant the Surya Dev, and also just as important the Gayatri Mantra.
Surya Dev is depicted as riding a chariot drawn by seven horses. These horses signify the seven chakras of the human body and the 7 colours of the rainbow. He carries a lotus (a symbol of life), a conch-shell, Chakra (discus), and Gadha (mace). Surya enjoys a higher rank than many other Gods as he has the power to nurture life on earth and to heal ailments. Surya is regarded as an eye of the Virata Purusha (The universal form or Supreme Being) by Hindus. Saints, humans, asuras, and rakshasas worship Surya, who is one of the five supreme Gods.
It is said in the Rig-Veda: that ‘The Sun is the soul of all that moves or doesn’t move.’ Without the Sun, there will be no creation, and nothing can exist on earth. So the Sun has the stature of a God, and that is why people worship him.
]]>Our home, Earth, is the only scientifically known planet within our solar system that can harbour life. This means that the quantity and type of elements that form our Planet are in perfect harmony with each other.
These must be some pretty special Elements!
According to Hinduism, it is believed that everything within the universe is created from a combination of five elements. This applies to, not only Planet Earth, but all cosmic creations along with living and non-living things. Ayurveda philosophy also highlights that the human body, too, is composed of these five elements, and considered as a miniature representation of the universe itself.
So what are these elements you may wonder?
In Sanskrit the five elements are collectively referred to as the Pancha MahaBhuta. Pancha meaning ’five’ and MahaBhuta meaning ‘great elements’.
The Pancha MahaBhuta are made up of the following individual elements:
In the context of Mother Earth:
Aakash (Ether/Space)
Is vacant space where all objects that exist, reside in. It is considered the greatest of the Pancha MahaBhuta as it supports and pervades the remaining four MahaBhuta’s, yet remains unaffected by them. There is not a single object in which there is no Aakash, even an atom has Aakash within it. This element also carries sound energy, therefore wherever there is sound, Aakash is present.
Vayu (Air)
Vayu is not just air, as in a mixture of nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide and other gases, but air as a dimension of movement. Air is an important aspect of everything in life. It has the ability to cause trees to shake, gather leaves and move small objects. Vayu can be soft, hard, hot or cold and can be felt through the sense of touch.
Agni (Fire)
Agni is luminous, and a powerful light and heat source. It makes everything visible to us, and is the required element of the sense of sight. Fire is that part of nature that transforms one state of matter into another. It dries and burns wood, ghee and other sacrificial offerings, absorbs liquids and eliminates cold by creating warmth. While the controlled fire is critical to sustain life, uncontrolled fire can lead to destruction.
Jal (Water)
Jal is liquid matter, which hugs 71% of the Earth’s surface. It has the ability to bind soil and other substances and soften and moisten all objects. It also quenches thirst and supresses heat. Jal satisfies and sustains all life forms and is associated with the sense of taste.
Prithvi (Physical Land/Earth)
Prithvi separates the other 4 elements and provides a physical form to all life-forms. Life is possible on Earth because Prithvi holds all living and non-living substances to its solid surface. This element is responsible for expressing the sense of smell. Earth always gives off a smell, such as the smell generated from rain on dry land.
The importance of each element, for Planet Earth, is evident. Without all five, the earth and all that depends on it, would cease to exist. Fortunately for humankind, and all other living beings, these precious elements are here for the duration of Earths life.
However that does not give us a license to take them for granted. These have been gifted to us and it is the responsibility of everyone, who calls planet Earth home, to care for them.
Today, the health of Earth and the Pancha MahaBhuta are under serious threat. Many environmental issues have begun to noticeably cause changes to the quality of the MahaBhutas, resulting in imbalances within them. The fear being that some of the damaging effects may have already become irreversible!
Issue such as climate change, sea pollution and deforestation are making headlines, calling for humankind to take note of their impact on the environment. Let us pause to consider how we can make positive steps to care for the Pancha MahaBhuta. Small changes collectively can make a huge difference, and help our planet heal.
Ultimately we need to be kind to Earth and help the elements out, nature can live without humans but not the other way around.
Blog by Revti Halai
Watch this space in 2022 we have a very very exciting collaboration coming.
]]>Vastu is an ancient Indian science of architecture and buildings. To make the most of the elements energy fields to attract wealth, health, prosperity and happiness. Vastu Shastra unifies the science, art, astronomy and astrology. Literally translating to “the science of architecture”, Vastu Shastra lays down the principles of design, layout, measurements, ground preparation, space arrangement and spatial geometry for a home or any built-up structure; sometimes incorporating traditional Hindu religious beliefs, the theories of Vastu provide ideas and concepts for making a living space harmonious with nature, not restricted to rigid layout diagrams.
Vastu is the science of directions that combine the five elements and balance them with man made material. Taking advantage of the Paanchbhootas, and carving a path to be happiness.
While the science of Vastu illustrates architectural principles for building a structure, it also offers guidelines for the home interior design that means room layouts but also home decorations. Using Vastu rules we can bring positivity into our homes. I will definitely be looking more into this and giving tips to Vastu rules for our homes soon.
Vastu Shastra explains that all things in the universe have a level of energy and that every building or land has a vibration of energy associated with it. The universe is built of positive and negative energy. Vastu aims at eliminating the negative energy and enhancing the positive energy.
Read more in our blog of how Vastu Shastra is important:
There is much more which can be achieved with the help of Vastu.
Elements and It’s Dominant Directions
As per Vastu, the universe is made of 5 elements namely Earth, Air, Space, Fire, and Water. It says that the balance of these elements is very important for attracting positivity at home. Every element has a dominant direction as follow:
Ref: fernsnpetals
]]>When placing an idol they should face forward and not face each other. The gods face should be towards the North East. This is also considered auspicious whilst praying.
Your puja room should be a calm tranquil and serene place, delicate soothing colours which calm your mind are recommended, soft shades or orange, blue, yellow or white.
If you have space set aside for a puja room or mandir in a room ideally it must be away from a staircase or bathroom. Sometimes this is not possible, so place your murtis on a raised platform above ground level.
It is recommended murtis are not placed directly against a wall, but a few inches away from the wall, and inch is recommended. This is also so the smoke of the incense can envelope the murti.
Lighting a diya has such a significance and symbolism in puja, and is an unquestioned tradition. We have previously written a blog on diyas. The diya should be placed in front the murti in a South-East direction.
According to Vastu rules offering prayers to broken, cracked murtis is considered inauspicious. It is recommended these murtis are immersed in a flowing river.
In many Indian homes, it is a common practice to keep garlanded pictures of deceased relatives in the puja room. However, did you know that this is against puja room vastu recommendations? I did not know this. While you can offer prayers to your ancestors in the puja room, avoid keeping pictures of them in this space. Experts recommend that such photographs be placed in the South or South-Western part of your home instead. The home mandir is a sanctified space, vastu directs us to keep only soothing pictures in this room to add to its sanctity.
A separate puja room should ideally have doors to ensure privacy for you when you are in prayer. The door should be against the North or East wall of your mandir.
Ref: LIVSPACE
]]>Ravana means the one who roars loud. He was a devout follower of Lord Shiva. Ravana had received several boons from Shiva. Ravana, however, was also egotistical and had a secret desire to subdue Shiva. Shiva tried to crush Ravana under Mount Kailash, Ravana tore open his own body, made a Veena out of it and sang the Shiva Tandava Stotram (a hymn in praise of the Cosmic Dance of Shiva). Shiva was so ore by his genius, that he named him Ravana.
Ravana is actually related to Lord Brahma Ravana was Brahma's great-grandson. Ravana's father was the famous sage, Visravas, who himself was a son of Prajapati Pulastya, one of Brahma's ten sons.
Ravana is often portrayed with ten heads. These heads are symbolic of his vast knowledge - they represent his mastery over the four Vedas and the six Shastras. He was extremely wise, powerful and ambitious as well, his major goal was to dominate the devas (gods) and gain full control over the entire Universe. Ravana was one of the most learned scholars to have ever lived, Rama asked his brother Lakshmana to sit beside the dying demon-king and learn from him important lessons in statecraft and diplomacy.
Before starting the construction of the Rama Setu, Rama was searching for a pundit to help him with the puja ceremony. Since Ravana was the most learned and qualified pundit in the vicinity, he helped out Rama out of respect. Ravana suggested the most auspicious time to commence the battle and even blessed him saying "vijayi bhava” (may you be victorious). Rama praised the daitya king as a Mahabrahmin and so, he had to perform the Ashwamedha Yagna to defeat Ravana.
Ravana actually had a musical side. In many depictions of Ravana, he can be seen carrying a veena. It is believed that he had a keen interest in music and was a highly accomplished veena player.
Ravana had several wives, out of which Mandodari was his favourite. Once, he made advances towards the wife of Nalakubera (son of Kubera). He was cursed so that he would not be able to touch any woman without her permission to do so. That is why Ravana could not touch Sita when he abducted her - he had to lift the entire chunk of earth that she was standing on.
Ravana was so powerful that, with a mere thought, he could control sunrise and sunset. Ravana was so powerful, he could even interfere with planetary alignments. During the birth of his son Meghnad, Ravana 'instructed' the planets to stay in the 11th house of his son, which would grant him immortality. Saturn, or Shani, refused to do so and stood in the 12th house instead. Ravana was furious, it is said that he attacked Shani Dev with his mace and even imprisoned him.
Being a wise man, an ace astrologer and an equally powerful Asura, Ravana was well aware about his impending doom at the hands of Rama. He knew that Rama was an avatar of Vishnu and had come down to Earth with the sole purpose of destroying him. He welcomed the idea of attaining moksha at the Lotus Feet of the Lord.
Ravana played his role as a bad guy, he that brought balance to the world. There are many people in the world, who still worship him. The fact remains that the story of this demon King is both fascinating and awe-inspiring. An expert in the 64 arts; a musician and astrologer. A mighty Atimaharathi (warrior who could fight and vanquish several warriors at a time); a capable ruler and administrator; an unswerving devotee of Shiva; the one who got his name from Shiva himself - there are indeed so many things to admire about this great soul. Yes, his ego came in the way of his progress as a seeker.
(Ref: Dolls of India)
]]>We make so many offering to the gods, rice, flowers, food and adorn them with Kunku and Chandan. Chandan is the yellow powder we use in Puja… but why do we offer Chandan to our deities?
So what actually is Chandan? Chandan, the fragrant wood (chandanam), is sacred in Hinduism. Chandan word is derived from the Sanskrit root Cadi, meaning ‘to delight’ or ‘that which delights’. Chandan is the powder of Sandalwood. We use it to put a tilak on the deity and devotees. A Chandan tilak is applied between the eyes brows, this is the area some call the third eye. The centre of human intellect and where thoughts lie. It stimulates the Anjani Chakra the centre of our thoughts. When we apply the tilak to the forehead of the deity and attracts the deity’ s divine energies and bring in positive energies. It also has a cooling effect and cools the mind keeping us calm. Chandan has satvik elements to enhance ones spirituality. The fragrance attracts the deities and positive energies.
The Ramayana of Valmiki (Ayodhya Kanda 15th Sarga, verse 35), describing Rama in his palace, says that his body was smeared with Sandalwood paste.
Bhagavata Purana (10th Skanda, chapter 42, verse 5) mentions that the upper part of Lord Krishna’s body was anointed with sandalwood paste. Krishna is invited to Mathura by his wicked uncle King Kansa. Krishna and his brother Balarama were walking in Mathura when they saw a woman with a hump on her back coming with a plate of sandalwood paste. She could not walk straight and people called her names. But Krishna addressed her as "Sundari" -Beautiful woman, and asked her where was she going. She answered that the "Chandan" was for King Kansa and she was going to his palace as a daily routine. She was so impressed by the two brothers that she expressed her wish to apply sandalwood paste to foreheads of them. They happily agreed. She fulfilled her wish and asked Krishna why had he called her "Sundari" while she was bent and could not walk straight, Krishna laughed and said that she was really beautiful - he pressed her feet with his feet and holding her shoulder with one hand gave her chin an upward jolt with his other hand. And a miracle happened! Her hump was gone and she was straight. She was overwhelmed with joy and thanked Krishna.
The practice of using sandalwood in the funeral pyres of Hindus was known from ancient times and it continues even today. Kalidasa, in his Sanskrit poem, Raghuvamsa, mentions sandalwood being used in the funeral pyre of the Ikshvaku queen, Indumati.
]]>Gods and goddesses are divine beings and reside in the celestial world. Their divine bodies have the elements of air. They have been known to have a powerful sense of smell, and are attracted to beautiful fragrances.
When we perform ceremonies and rituals we invite the god or goddesses into our homes, making offerings which they are attracted to or please them. When they descend on our planet they would naturally be drawn to the smell of flowers, perfumes and even the incense we burn. Each deity has there own frequencies which are attracted to certain flowers. “Pavitrak” is a principal that when they receive the frequencies the deity sends back the frequencies to the atmosphere, and negative energies are destroyed.
Each god and goddesses like us humans have their preferences of colours, scent, food and flowers, even types of leaves. In some scriptures they even tell us the number of flowers or leaves to be offered. Lord Shiva preference if bel leaves, Lord Vishnu Tulsi and for Lord Ganesh blades of grass. A common number is offering five which relate to the Panchabootas or five elements.
The scientific rationale behind offering flowers is that they raise positive vibrations within or senses. This also helps to cleanse the puja area. Mango leaves is particularly a leaf which gathers positive vibes, hence it is a leaf that is used in toran.
When offering flowers we should never pluck flowers in the evening or darkness. We should not offer flowers fallen on the ground. Fallen flowers are dead and offered to mother earth. We should not offer flowers taken from someone without permission. Flowers with thorns should not be offered. We should not wash flowers with water and make an offering. While offering flowers use all five fingers. Usually they are offered at the feet of the deity.
So which flower do I offer to which god or goddess?
Ganesha- Red flowers, his favourite is red Hibiscus and blades of grass in numbers of 1,3,5,7.
Lord Shiva and goddess Parvati White flowers, bel leaves
Lord Vishnu is very fond of pink Lotus flowers, tulsi leaves are very dear to Lord Vishnu is numbers of 1,3,5,7,9
Lord Rama and Lord Hanuman Jasmine flowers
Lord Krishna Blue Lotus, and tulsi leaves
Goddess Saraswati Any white flower
Goddess Durga Jasmin
Goddess Lakshmi Pink Lotus, yellow marigold
Goddess Kali Yellow flowers
Our Hindu worship ritual, puja, literally means “the flower act,” and it often calls to attention the high place within our persons. Hinduism uses the lotus to reflect that high place within us all. The devotee in a state of purity offers flowers to the deities finds that the deities become gratified with him, as the consequences of such gratification bestow prosperity on him.
]]>As a little girl we sung the “Om Jai Jagdish Hare” (Aarti). I learnt this from my parents and dearest grandparents. My grandparents would recite this daily. Still to this day doing “Jai Jai” with my boys I remember every word, and they are learning the more we sing.
During Navratri we would be so tired at the end of the night, but always be so attentive during the Mataji Aarti. We would look forward to prasad (offerings which would also be chocolate!!). There was always something so spiritual and uplifting with the whole community friends and family praying together. Love, laughter and happiness filled the air.
We felt so blessed when we came across this translation from the Brahmin Society Luton. An English Translation after every verse of Mataji’s Aarti, who knew what they meant, this is brilliant for the younger generation, we all sing it, but how many of us know who wrote it and the meaning behind the words. The words were originally composed on the banks of Narmada by a Surti poet Shivanand Vamdev Pandya who later became Swami Shivan.
Currently in the Covid pandemic worship has continued in many virtual platforms. The Jai Jais, we know the importance of maintaining our religion, culture and roots for the next generation. We felt it was important to share this wonderful translation so we and the next generation would know what this wonderful Aarti signifies.
Mataji Aarti (Navratri)
Reference and thanks for a wonderful translation by The Brahmin Association Luton.
Jaya adya shakti, maa jaya adya shakti
Akhanda bramanda nipavya, akhanda bramanda nipavya
Padave panthe ma. om jayo jayo ma jagadambe
Maa, you are the Great Universal Mother. You are first to be born.
Born on the first day of last month, Aaso (Hindu calendar)
Praise be to you Maa Jagadambe
Dwitiya be swaroop, shiva shakti janu
Maa shiv shakti janu. brahma ganapati gaye x2 hara gaye
Hara ma. om jayo jayo ma jagadambe
You appear in the two forms of Shiv & Shakti (male/female, Shiva/Parvati).
You are praised by Brahma, Ganesh & Shiva
Trutiya trana swaroop, tribhuvana ma betha
Maa tribhuvana ma betha, trayastaki taraveni x2 tum
Taraveni ma. om jayo jayo ma jagadambe
You appear in the three forms of Kali, Maha Laxshmi & Saraswati
And rule over the three worlds (Heaven, Earth & Hell)
Chothe chatura maha lakshmi, meiyya sacharachara vyapya
Maa sacharachara vyapa x2 chara bhuja cho disha.
Pragatya dakshinaman. om jayo jayo ma jagadambe
You appear as Maha Laxshmi the four handed one, ruler of the universe.
Arising in the south from the churning of the ocean by Demi Gods and Demons
Panchami pancha rushi, panchami guna padma
Maa panchami guna padma pancha tatva tyan sohiye x2 panche tatvo ma
Om jayo jayo ma jagadambe
The five great rishis praise you, who sits upon the Lotus flower and
Have all five elements in you (fifth being Space/Infinity)
Shasti tum narayani mahishasura maryo
Maa mahishasura mahyo. nara nari na rupe x2 vyapya sarve ma
Om jayo jayo ma jagadambe
You are the destroyer of the form changing Mahisahasura demon,
You that are formless yourself, but you are also whole.
Saptame sapta patal sandhya savitri
Maa sandhya savitri. gau ganga gayatri x2 gauri gita ma
Om jayo jayo ma jagadambe
On The seventh day you are all seven of Sandhya (evening); Savitri (Brahma’s Wife);
Gau (cow); Ganga (river); Gayatri mata, Gairi (Parvati mata) & Gita (holy book)
Ashtami ashta bhuja aai ananda
Meiyya aai ananda sunivara munivara janamya x2 deve deitya ma
Om jayo jayo ma jagadambe
You appear as Saraswati the eight handed one full of happiness and pleasure.
Goddess of Knowledge. Praised by sages and demi gods.
Navami nava kul naga seve nava durga
Meiyya seve nava durga, navaratri na pujana. shivaratri na arachana
Kidhana hara brahma. om jayo jayo ma jagadambe
All nine generations of serpents (Kaal which is time and infinity) Serve you.
Especially during Navratri
Dashami dasha avatara jaya vijiya dashami
Meiyya jaya vijiya dashami. rama e rameramadya x2 ravana roryo ma
Om jayo jayo ma jagadambe
Tenth day of Vijaya Dashmi, Rama destroyed Ravan
Ekadashi agiyaras katya yani kama, maa katya yani kama
( kama durga kalika) x2 shyama ne rama.
Om jayo jayo ma jagadambe
You appear as Katyani (Kali maa form) on the eleventh day to destroy evil and protect
your followers.
Barase bara rupa bahuchari amba ma, maa bahuchari amba ma.
Batuka bhairava sohiye. kara bhairava sohiye. tara che tujama
Om jayo jayo ma jagadambe
On the twelfth night you appear as Bauchar maa, a Maiden.
Praised and adored by Shiva’s Disciples (Batuk & Kara)
Terashe turaja rupa tum taruni mata. maa tum taruni mata
Brahma vishnu sada shiva x2 guna tara gata
Om jayo jayo ma jagadambe
The thirteenth day is devoted to you Turja maa the maiden who removes the
Cycle of Death & Rebirth and is praised by the Holy Trinity (Brahma, Vishnu & Shankar)
Chaudeshe chauda rup chandi chamunda. maa chandi chamunda
Bhava bhakti kaie aapo. chaturaie kaie aapo. siharavahani mata
Om jayo jayo ma jagadambe
On the fourteenth day you appear as the destroyer of the Demons Chand & Mund.
Give us your blessing of love, devotion and pure understanding
Puname kumbha bharyo sanbharajo karuna. maa sanbharajo karuna.
Vashishtha deve vakhanya, markanda muni e vakhanya. gai shubha kavita
Om jayo jayo ma jagadambe
On the fiftieth day (Poonam) Oh Great Mother have mercy upon us all.
The great sage Vashitha sings your praises
Savanta sora sattavan soraso bavisaman. maa soraso bavisaman
Savanta sore pragatyan x2 reva ne tire, maa ganga ne tire
Om jayo jayo ma jagadambe
(Hindu calendar) between 1622- 1657, you took the form of a mortal on
The banks of the Narmada river
Trambavati nagari aai rupavati nagari. maa manchavati nagari
Sora sahashra tyan sohiye x2 kshama karo gauri. maa dayaa karo gauri
Om jayo jayo ma jagadambe
Trambavati, Rupavati & Manchvati (legendary places of pilgrimage)
You have taken 16000 forms. Forgive us maa. Have mercy and pity upon us.
Shiva shakti ni aarti je koi gashe. maa je bhave gashe
Bhane shiva nanda swami x2 sukha sampatti thashe. har kaitashe ja se
Ma amba dukha harashe.
Om jayo jayo ma jagadambe
Whoever sings these verses will benefit from happiness, prosperity
And be liberated.
Eabe ek swaroop antara nava dharsho. maa antara nava dharsho
Bhora bhavani ne bhajata. amba ma ne bhajata. bhava sagara tarsho
Om jayo jayo ma jagadambe x3
Believe in Her in any of Her thousands of forms. You shall receive blessings
From your worship. Praise be to you Maa Jagadambe.
Happy Navratri from The Jai Jais Team
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One thing I never knew until researching for this book, is the links people have made with Vishnu Evolution and Darwin’s theory.
Darwin’s theory is simple; he observed in the Galapagos islands-Latin America in 1800’s that life evolved in water. All species on Earth from fish to plants, from fruit to birds have common ancestors. They adapted their genes, shape and form, food habitats, mating so new off spring was created. There was a struggle of survival for the fittest. Life started in water from amphibians, which changed to land animals. It took thousands of years from monkeys to primitive man, and finally humans beings we see today.
It is interesting to see the Evolution of the 10 Avatars from lower to higher forms of life and their association with Darwin’s theory.
Matsya-The 1st Avatar’s form was of a fish in water, symbolising the forming of protoplasm and invertebrates.
Kurma-The 2nd Avatar was a tortoise and amphibian, confirming Darwin’s theory of fish to adapt to amphibian form.
Varaha- The 3rd Avatar the boar. This links to dinosaurs that lived thousands of years earlier. The existence of mammals. The existence of animals and four legged beings.
Narasimha-The 4th The Half man and half lion, the beginning form of humans. Showing the development of hands and fingers on animals and the ape form.
Vamana-The 5th Avatar, a smaller short intelligent human in dwarf form. The incomplete development of the man.
Parashurama-The 6th Avatar, the axe man. He stayed on the jungle. This symbolises the stone age. The axe symbolise the use of metal as a material. As we look at the stone age and cave men, also showing the tribal culture.
Rama-The 7th Avatar, the perfect man, followed monogamy, and the ability to live in cities and hold administration. The human then learnt values, ethics, and beliefs. Humans began having rituals and traditions. The human also started having relationships with other humans — that of a child (son/daughter), spouse, parent, sibling, a student, mentor, etc.
Krishna-The 8th Avatar, a wise stateman, learning the 64 arts and reflecting the development of science. He ultimately emerges as a mentor, a negotiator and protector of peace, positive values and beliefs on earth. The human then gets more materialistic but with a firm ground in spirituality as well. Human begins to learn to be happy, love, and play around while also preaching other humans how to live right. Humans gradually start thinking evil. They give way to negative qualities like greed, frustration, anger, hatred, lust, and cunningness to hurt other humans in subtle manners. There is misuse of power, politics, favouritism
Buddha-The 9th Avatar, the pursuit of happiness. Shows the emotional and intellectual development of man and science. As Humans evolved, they started creating rules, culture, rituals and practices for positive and peaceful living, in short, they started creating their own Religions for other humans to follow. This also led to the evolution of the spiritual life of humans.
Kalki-The 10th Avatar, yet to come the future. The man with weapons, the humanoid man of tomorrow. In future the moral degeneration in society and the hope to save mankind.
The Avatars, basically, refers to the descending order from simple life form to more complex life forms. It can be seen as the reflection of the modern Darwinian theory of evolution, that is, the most sophisticated life as a human has been evolved through a long process of development of life. Avatars, to some extent, support the Darwinian theory of evolution. Our ancestors taught us about evolution, which The Jai Jais share in our Dashavatars in a form simple and easily understandable stories. They are symmetrical to Darwin’s theory of evolution. This shows that Indian Rishis and Sages, no less than modern day scientists, were aware of the theory of evolution of life, some people say much before Charles Darwin introduced it to the world.
]]>According to Hindu traditions, the Namkaran ceremony is usually performed within a few weeks of the baby's birth. The eleventh or twelfth day after birth is considered the most favourable day for the ceremony. The first initial of the child’s name, which is considered to be auspicious is determine by reading the astrological signs at the time of birth. In the past, most names were either names of gods and goddesses or reflected important qualities, e.g. Shanti-meaning 'peace'. While many Hindus continue this tradition today, it is also becoming more popular in both the UK and urban India to invent a name or to use Western names.
The formal name of the ceremony is “Namkaran”, it is an important Vedic ritual. In Sanskrit ‘Nam’ means name, and ‘karan’ means to create. It is traditionally believed that a boy's name should have letters in even numbers 2, 4, 6, 8, and girls should consist of odd-numbered letters, 3, 5, 7, 9 but 11 is considered the most auspicious length for both genders.
There are five general principles of determining what the initial letter of a child's name should be:
Janam Nakshatranam (by lunar chart, composed of the birth star of the child, the position of planets at the time and date of birth, and the moon sign)
Masanam (according to the child's month of birth)
Devatanama (after the family deity)
Rashinama (according to the child's Zodiac sign)
Samsarikanama (the worldly name), as an exception to all the above.
The priest will start the naming ceremony with the ritualistic offerings and prayers to the Gods, the elements and, the spirits of the ancestors. The parents of the new born, guided by the priest, start the ritual with prayers and chanting of mantras. In some cultures, the father of the child will write the chosen name in rice grains spread on a bronze plate using a piece of gold and whisper the child’s name into its right ear. The chosen name is then announced to everyone present at the ceremony. This is usually followed by the guests greeting the child using the name. Gifts and blessings are showered on the new born and his/her parents by everyone present. The family astrologer will also usually present the child’s horoscope at this ceremony.
It is in the belief that a baby who has a name with good positive phonation and vibes will be blessed with good fortune and prosperity.
]]>The soul continues its journey of birth, death and rebirth, until a final liberation. This is at the heart of the philosophy of detachment and learning to let go of desires.
]]>The soul continues its journey of birth, death and rebirth, until a final liberation. This is at the heart of the philosophy of detachment and learning to let go of desires.
Hindus believe that the soul of the deceased stays attached to its body even after its demise, and by cremating the body, it can be set free. To fully liberate the soul of its mortal attachments, the ashes of the deceased are then dispersed in a river or ocean, usually at a historically holy place, like the banks of the River Ganges.
As the Hindu text, the “Bhagavad Gita” – The Song of God – says of the soul,
It is not born, it does not die;
Having been, it will never not be.
Unborn, eternal, constant and primordial;
It is not killed, when the body is killed.
Immediately after death, the soul a vaporous thumb-sized structure known as linga ṡarīra. This is immediately seized by two servants of Yama, the god of death, who carry it to their master for a preliminary identity check. Afterward, the soul is promptly returned to the abode of the deceased, where it hovers around the doorstep. It is important that the cremation be completed by the time of the soul’s return, to prevent it from re-entering the body.
The Pind Daan Pooja is carried out, see our earlier blog. Also our blog on Who is Yamaraja:?
With the completion of these rituals, the soul of the deceased leaves this world for its yearlong and perilous journey to Yama’s kingdom.
The soul meanwhile proceeding on its journey, holding onto a cow’s tail to cross the Vaitarani, a horrible river of blood and filth that marks the boundary of Yama’s kingdom. Throughout, it is sustained by further śrāddhas, during which friends on earth seek to provide it with shoes, umbrellas, clothing, and money. These they give to a Brahman, in the hope that the deceased will benefit. During such rituals relatives have to avoid all sewing, which might occlude the pitṛi’s throat, rendering it incapable of ever breathing or drinking again. After a year, the pitṛi in its yatana ṡarīra reaches Yama’s seat of judgment, where it is sentenced to a strictly limited term in heaven (svarga) or hell (naraka) according to its deserts. This completed, it moves into another body (the karaṇa ṡarīra), whose form depends on the individual’s karman. It could be a plant, a an insect, an animal, or a human being.
Om Shanti Om Shanti Om Shanti
]]>The custom of Pind Daan dates back to the time when the Vedas were written. The word "pind" means a body. The word "daan" denotes charity or giving. Therefore, Pind Daan means giving charity to the body of the deceased.
When a person dies, the soul leaves the body. To end the relationship between the soul and the body, the body is consigned to flames where it is converted into ashes. These ashes are consigned to a holy river like the Ganga if you cannot make your trip to Ganga than to one of the rivers near you. Thereby, nothing remains of the physical body, but the soul waits for a new body. It is said that it takes ten days for the deceased to enter a new situation. On the 11th and 12th day the food is offered to the deceased through the shraddha ceremony to be eaten. It is believed that on the 13th day the messengers of death usher the deceased into Yamaloka, the abode of Yama. When the last rites are performed with devotion, the deceased enters Yamaloka happily, after which he may be given a pleasant or uplifting situation. To Hindus this is important. Therefore, the food (pind daan) that is offered is accepted by the deceased through the scent of smell, not that it is actually or physically eaten. The scent of smell and sound, and the transfer of emotions can still be felt by the deceased from those who remain on the physical plane. The pind daan and the shraddha ceremony are utilised to serve this purpose.
It is explained in the Yoga Vashistha, (3/55/27): At this stage the soul is aware that the old body is dead and that it is through the pind daan offering by family members that a new body is created and relieved of any distress. This experience is conveyed through feelings and sentiments. The physical rites are only symbolic. These sentiments embrace the deceased.
On receiving pind daan the soul or deceased feels happy and content, and after giving blessings proceeds to Yamaloka in an improved situation.
It is believed that it was Brahma who first performed the pind daan ceremony in Gaya. Since then this tradition has continued. This is a step toward the reconstitution of a more substantial physical body (yatana ṡarīra) around the disembodied soul (preta) of the deceased. A tiny trench is dug in a ritually purified piece of land by a river, and the presence of Vishnu is invoked. Ten balls of barley flour mixed with sugar, honey, milk, curds, ghee, and sesame seeds are then placed, one by one, in the soil. As the first ball is offered, the priest says (and the son repeats after him), “May this create a head”; with the second ball, “May this create neck and shoulders”; with the third, “May this create heart and chest”; and so on. The 10th request is for the ball to create the capacity to digest, thereby satisfying the hunger and thirst of the newly created body.
The Kurma Purana (34/7-8) also explains: All forefathers appreciate a pilgrimage to Gaya by their successors. Once the Pind Daan is performed in Gaya, one achieves liberation. One becomes free of rebirth. If one visits Gaya even once and offers Pind Daan to the forefathers, they become free from hell and other dreadful destinations and achieve salvation.
The Kurma Purana also explains that whoever goes to Gaya for Pind Daan is blessed and seven generations from the paternal and maternal side are benefited along with the personal self who achieves liberation.
(Source hindupriest.com)
]]>Is the number holy?... does it lie in maths and science? What I found out is according to Vedic Sages and Vedic cosmology the number 108 is the basis of creation and also represents the universe and all our existence.
In Hinduism there are 108 Upanishads, the sacred texts of wisdom from ancient sages. In the Sanskrit alphabet, there are 54 letters. Each letter has a feminine, or Shakti, and masculine, or Shiva, quality. 54 multiplied by 2 equals 108.
River Ganga spans a longitude of 12 degrees (79 to 91) and latitude of 9 degrees (22 to 31). 12 multiplied by 9 equals 108.
In astrology, 108 can be noticed with the approximate relationships the Sun, Earth, and Moon. The diameter of the Sun is 108 times the diameter of Earth.
According to Ayurveda we have 108 points in our body which are life forces called Marma points. When we chant mantras 108 times it represents a journey of our material self to our higher spiritual self, its is believed with each chant we are closer to god within. On the Shri Yantra there are marmas (points) where three lines intersect, and there are 54 such intersections. Each intersection has masculine and feminine qualities, which represent Shiva and Shakti. 54 x 2 equals 108. Thus, there are 108 points that define the Sri Yantra as well as the human body.
In Yogic practice there are said to be 108 styles of meditation. In Kriya Yoga the maximum number of repetitions per session is 108. An average person is said to breathe 21,600 times in a 24-hour period. Half, 10,800, are solar energy (breaths during day), and the other half is lunar energy (breaths during night). 100 multiplied with 108 equals 10,800.
Pranayama cycles are often repeated in 108 cycles and even sun salutations are often completed in nine rounds of the 12 postures, which when multiplied, adds up to 108. Ancient yogis believed that we can attune ourselves to the rhythms of creation by completing practices in rounds of this sacred number.
The chakras are the intersections of subtle nerve channels or nadiis, and there are said to be a total of 108 nadiis converging to form the heart chakra. One of them, sushumna leads to the crown chakra, and is said to be the path to Self-realisation.
Time. It is said we have 108 feelings. 36 related to the past, 36 related to the present, and 36 related to the future. There are said to be 108 earthly desires in mortals.
Paths to God Some people believe that there are 108 paths to God. Many Hindu temples have 108 steps. Atman is believed that the soul or inner self (Atman), goes through 108 stages of spiritual development.
Dance Forms There are 108 traditional Indian dance forms. (Traditional Indian dances are used to worship God or tell stories of God.)
108 seems to be a mysterious number that connects the ancient world to the modern world and also connects the physical realm to the metaphysical realm. The number 108 is sacred in mathematics, geometry, astrology, numerology and in many world religions and spiritual traditions. For example Stonehenge, a prehistoric monument in England is 108 feet in diameter.
]]>Most of us usually keep Ganesh murthis in our home without knowing exactly where and how to place it. To remove all obstacles from your life and attract wealth and good health, one should follow certain simple Vastu rules; especially, as Ganesh a Chaturthi 2021 is coming up on the 10th September.
1: The colour of the Ganpati murti has a lot of significance
People seeking happiness, peace and prosperity in life should consider placing a murthi of a white Ganesh at home. Those who desire self-growth should bring home a vermilion coloured Ganesh. This is considered auspicious according to vastu.
2: Posture of the idol is symbolic
For worshipping within the walls of your home, an idol of Ganesh in sitting position, also known as the lalitasana, is considered ideal. Vastu experts say that the sitting Ganesh represents a calm and composed demeanour and encourages a peaceful environment at home. The reclining Ganesh symbolises luxury, comfort and wealth.
3: Notice the direction of the trunk
According to vastu, ideally, the trunk of the sitting Ganesh should be tilted towards his left. This symbolises happiness and success. An murthi with a trunk tilted towards its right is hard to please since it represents the power of the sun and one has to follow certain rituals while worshipping it.
4: Pay attention to the little details
Ganesh’s vehicle is a mouse and modak is his favourite sweet. Therefore, while buying the murthi for your home, make sure that the tiny mouse and the modak is a part of it. The mouse is a symbol of all-pervasiveness, while the modak is an offering to the lord and his devotees and prasadam.
5: Place it facing the right direction
Vastu experts suggest that the west, north and northeast directions are perfect to place the Ganesh. Try to make the murthi face the north direction, since this is where lord Shiva resides and it is considered very auspicious. Also, make sure that the back of the murti or the photo is facing the main entrance/exit of the home. Steer clear of south for placing the idol, since it is not very suitable.
6: Where should you not place it?
There are a few places at home that you should avoid completely while placing the Ganesh murthi. Some of them are the bedroom, garage, laundry room, underneath staircases and of course bathrooms. Vastu experts say that the garage is considered as a vacant spot and thus inauspicious for placing a murthi. Similarly, the energies under staircases and laundry rooms are not favourable to keep your Ganesh. (Ref: LIVSPACE)
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You might wonder why Ganesh is truly one of the most popular Hindu gods. Ganesh was actually given a boon (a wish) from another god. The boon granted him to be more revered and worshiped than even his father, and he would be the first god to be acknowledged when entering a temple.
]]>You might wonder why Ganesh is truly one of the most popular Hindu gods. Ganesh was actually given a boon (a wish) from another god. The boon granted him to be more revered and worshiped than even his father, and he would be the first god to be acknowledged when entering a temple.
Ganesh and his brother Kartikeya challenged each other to see who could go around the world 3 times the fastest. As Kartikeya jumped onto his huge bird of a vehicle and flew at records speeds to get around the world and win the challenge, Ganesh was left on the ground. Nobody had ever given him a vehicle to ride, so he quickly asked his father for some form of a vehicle to ride upon, to which Shiva gave a tiny mouse.
Ganesh, knowing this mouse could never carry him started thinking. An idea came to him and he went up to his parents, walked around them 3 times and announced he had won the challenge, because parents are the highest respected members of any family they are respected as symbol of the world. Shiva was pleased that he won his challenge, and forever after he was revered for his incredible intellect.
Ganesh the scribe who hand-wrote the entire Mahabharata poem. The great sage Vyāsa requested Ganesh to write the poem as he dictated, knowing this would be a huge project Ganesh agreed on one condition, Vyasa must recite the entire poem un-interrupted, without pausing or taking a break. The great Vyāsa agreed to this request however found a loop-hole to give himself a break, he would give Ganesh incredibly difficult complex passages so Ganesh would be forced to ask questions giving the tricky Vyāsa the time to rest when needed.
Ganesh is called Ekdanta according to Brahmavavart Purana, Parshurama once went to the Kailash mountain to visit Shiva when he was meditating. So Ganesh didn’t allow Parshurama to meet Shiva. This angered Parshurama and he used his axe which was granted to him by Shiva himself to attack Ganesh. To respect the power of the weapon given by his father, Ganesh took the attack on one of his tusk and since then he is called Ekdanta., “One tooth”.
Ganesh can actually get angry but once the moon laughed at Ganesa’s fat belly. As a result, Ganesh cursed the moon and said that on Vinayagar Chaturthi, whoever will look at the moon, he would be falsely blamed. That’s why people believe in not looking at the moon on Ganesh Chaturthi.
]]>(Ref: The spiritual Indian)
]]>Saraswati's name means 'elegant', 'flowing', and 'watery'. She is also known as Bharati-eloquence, Shatarupa-existence, Vedamata mother of the Vedas, Brahmi, Sarada, Vagisvari, and Putkari. As Vac, she is the goddess of speech. Saraswati first appears in the Rigveda and, in later religious texts.
]]>But who is Goddess Saraswati? Let’s find out more… The Jai Jais Way.
Saraswati's name means 'elegant', 'flowing', and 'watery'. She is also known as Bharati-eloquence, Shatarupa-existence, Vedamata mother of the Vedas, Brahmi, Sarada, Vagisvari, and Putkari. As Vac, she is the goddess of speech. Saraswati first appears in the Rigveda and, in later religious texts, she is identified as the inventor of Sanskrit and, gives Ganesh the gifts of pen and inks. She is also a patron of the arts and sciences, and the wife of Brahma. Some Hindus believe all creatures were born from the union of Brahma and Sarasvati starting with Manu, the first man. About 4000 years ago in India, a river flew by the name of Saraswati. It was an earthly form of Maa Saraswati. Parashurama, the 6th avatar of Lord Vishnu, purified himself in this river after ending the Kshatriyas.
Saraswati is usually depicted as a graceful youth with white skin. She most often wears a white sari, which symbolises purity which has a blue border. Not being concerned with worldly goods she rarely wears jewellery. She may have a crescent on her forehead and be seated on a lotus flower. Alternatively, she may be shown riding her vehicle (vahana), either a swan or goose. Her four arms represent the various aspects of human personality — learning, mind, intellect, alertness and ego. These four arms are also known to reflect the 4 Vedas — Rigveda, Atharvaveda, Samveda and Yajurveda. In the left hands she can carry a palm-leaf manuscript and ritual water vessel. In the upper right hand she holds a white lotus flower while the lower right hand typically performs the varada mudra, the traditional gift-giving gesture of Hinduism.
In the beginning there was chaos. Everything existed in a formless, fluid state, Brahma wanted to bring order to this chaos. Devi emerged from Brahma's mouth riding a swan as the goddess Saraswati, sacred books in one hand and a veena in the other dressed in white.
"Knowledge helps man find possibilities where once he saw problems." Said the goddess. Under her guidance Brahma acquired the ability to sense, think, comprehend and communicate. He began looking upon chaos with eyes of wisdom and began creation
Brahma discovered the melody of mantras in the chaos. In his joy he named Saraswati, Vagdevi, goddess of speech and sound. The sound of mantras filled the universe with vital energy, or prana. Things began to take shape and the cosmos acquired a structure: the sky dotted with stars rose to form the heavens; the sea sank into the abyss below, the earth stood in between. Gods became lords of the celestial spheres; demons ruled the nether regions, humans walked on earth. The sun rose and set, the moon waxed and waned, the tide flowed and ebbed. Seasons changed, seeds germinated, plants bloomed and withered, animals migrated and reproduced as randomness gave way to the rhythm of life. Brahma thus became the creator of the world with Saraswati as his wisdom. (Ref: Lotus sculpture)
Saraswati was the first being to come into Brahma's world. Brahma began to look upon her with eyes of desire. She turned away saying, "All I offer must be used to elevate the spirit, not indulge the senses."
Brahma could not control his amorous thoughts and his infatuation for the lovely goddess grew. He continued to stare at Saraswati. He gave himself four heads facing every direction so that he could always be able to feast his eyes on Saraswati's beauty.
]]>Lord Krishna is the eighth avatar of Vishnu and is one of the most widely known deities in Hinduism. Krishna is depicted in a variety of forms because there are so many stories surrounding him. The most common story describes Krishna as a divine lover who plays the flute. Krishna. Krishna is the central character in the epic Mahabharata, the epic story including many of topics such as war, love, brotherhood, and politics. It is essentially the story of two warring groups of cousin brothers, the Pandavas and the Kaurvas. Krishna was the charioteer to Arjun in the battlefield. The famous poem, the Bhagavat Gita, is spoken by Krishna to Arjuna on the battlefield.
This is how Lord Krishna describes God in the Holy Gita. And to most Hindus, he is the God himself, the Supreme Being.
"I am the conscience in the heart of all creatures,
I am their beginning, their being, their end,
I am the mind of the senses,
I am the radiant sun among lights,
I am the song in sacred lore,
I am the king of deities,
I am the priest of great seers…"
Krishna's Childhood Days
Krishna made cowherdesses happy by the bliss of his cosmic dances and the soulful music of his flute. He stayed in Gokul, the legendary 'cow-village' in Northern India for 3 years and 4 months. As a child he was reputed to be very mischievous, stealing curd and butter and playing pranks with his girl friends or gopis. Having completed his Lila or exploits at Gokul, he went to Vrindavan and stayed until he was 6 years and 8 months old.
According to a famous legend, Krishna drove away from the monstrous serpent Kaliya from the river to the sea. Krishna, according to another popular myth, lifted the Govardhana hill up with his little finger and held it like an umbrella to protect the people of Vrindavana from the torrential rain caused by Lord Indra, who had been annoyed by Krishna. Then he lived in Nandagram till he was 10.
Krishna's Youth and Education
Krishna then returned to Mathura, his birthplace, and killed his wicked maternal uncle King Kamsa along with all his cruel associates and liberated his parents from jail. He also reinstated Ugrasen as the King of Mathura. He completed his education and mastered the 64 sciences and arts in 64 days at Avantipura under his preceptor Sandipani. As gurudaksina or tuition fees, he restored Sandipani's dead son to him. He stayed in Mathura till he was 28.
Krishna, the King of Dwarka
Krishna then came to the rescue of a clan of Yadava chiefs, who were ousted by the king Jarasandha of Magadha. He easily triumphed over the multi-million army of Jarasandha by building an impregnable capital Dwarka, "the many-gated" city on an island in the sea. The city located on the western point of Gujarat is now submerged in the sea according to the epic Mahabharata. Krishna shifted, as the story goes, all his sleeping relatives and natives to Dwarka by the power of his yoga. In Dwarka, he married Rukmini, then Jambavati, and Satyabhama. He also saved his kingdom from Nakasura, the demon king of Pragjyotisapura, had abducted 16,000 princesses. Krishna freed them and married them since they had nowhere else to go.
Krishna, the Hero of the Mahabharata
For many years, Krishna lived with the Pandava and Kaurava kings who ruled over Hastinapur. When a war was about to break out between the Pandavas and Kauravas, Krishna was sent to mediate but failed. War became inevitable, and Krishna offered his forces to the Kauravas and himself agreed to join the Pandavas as the charioteer of the master warrior Arjuna. This epic battle of Kurukshetra described in the Mahabharata was fought in about 3000 BC. In the middle of the war, Krishna delivered his famous advice, which forms the crux of the Bhagavad Gita, in which he put forward the theory of 'Nishkam Karma' or action without attachment.
Krishna's Final Days on Earth
After the great war, Krishna returned to Dwarka. In his final days on earth, he taught spiritual wisdom to Uddhava, his friend, and disciple, and ascended to his abode after casting off his body, which was shot at by a hunter named Jara. He is believed to have lived for 125 years. Whether he was a human being or a God-incarnate, there is no gainsaying the fact that he has been ruling the hearts of millions for over three millennia. In the words of Swami Harshananda, "If a person can affect such a profound impact on the Hindu race affecting its psyche and ethos and all aspects of its life for centuries, he is no less than God."
Ref: Das, Subhamoy. "Who Is Lord Krishna?" Learn Religions, learnreligions.com/who-is-krishna-1770452.
]]>One of the tales I never knew about growing up as a child is the story of Shitala Ma. So who is Shitala Ma? Shitala’s name means “the cooling one”. Shitala Mata is mentioned in many scriptures, especially in Skanda Purana as the goddess of smallpox. She is an incarnation of Goddess Parvati. She is both the cause of the disease and the cure. When Shitala Devi first arose from a sacrificial fire, Lord Brahma told her that humans would always worship her, as long as she carried the seeds of a particular lentil called urad daal. Along with her companion, Jvarasura, the demon of fever created from the sweat of god Shiva, she travelled to visit other gods.
Along the way, her lentils turned into smallpox germs, and anyone whom they visited came down with a fever and smallpox. The gods asked Shitala Mata for mercy, and requested her to take her load of germs and go to Earth. She agreed and together with Jvarasura went down to Earth. Their first stop was at the court of King Birat, who was a devotee of lord Shiva. King Birat agreed to worship Shitala and give her a place in his kingdom, but would not give her supremacy over Shiva, so she threatened to infect his people. He was not swayed, and Shitala Devi released 75 different kinds of pox on his people. The disease spread far and wide, and there were many deaths. Finally, King Birat relented, and Shitala Mata healed him and his people.
Here is the tale told to me by my mother when I was growing up, she read it to me in Gujarati and we translated it for you to share with your children.
A woman lived in a house together with her two daughter-in-laws. Each were blessed with a son. The youngest daughter-in-law was very simple, kind and innocent. In the evening of Randhan Chhath the youngest daughter-in-law started to prepare food for the family. Her son was sleeping soundly in the cot and woke up crying. She had not finished cooking and went to feed her son. She fell asleep as it was late at night and she was tired. She forgot to put the embers out on the stove. Traditionally on Randhan Chhath Shitala Ma visits everyone’s home and goes to the stoves to give blessings to the women. That evening when Shitala Ma visited the home of the women, she became very angry to see the embers on the stove, as she is the “cooling” goddess, she got badly burnt by the embers that were not put out by the youngest daughter-in-law. Shitala Ma became angry, and cursed the daughter-in-law, saying as my body is burnt so will your sons. In the morning when the daughter-in-law woke, she found her son he was burnt to death.
The mother-in-law and her eldest daughter-in-law came running once they heard the youngest daughter-in-law screaming and crying, and saw the dead baby. The mother-in-law said you forgot to put the embers out at night and now you have been cursed by Shitala Ma. Her mother-in-law suggested that she take the baby and go and look for Shitala Ma immediately, and apologise, and ask for her blessing to help her son. She took her baby in a basket to find the goddess.
On her journey the daughter-in-law saw two lakes, she was very thirsty. When she went to drink the water, voices came from the lake. The voices told her not to drink the water as it had been cursed, any animal, bird or person that drunk the water will die. It was poisoned. The lakes asked the daughter-in-law where are you going? And why are you crying? The daughter-in-law told the lakes that she was going to find Shitala Ma to apologise and ask her to save son. The lakes requested her to ask Shitala Ma why the water of these lakes is poisoned, and asked for Shitala Ma’s help.
The daughter-in-law continued walking and saw two bulls they wore very heavy collars with flour grinding stones (ghanti) attached to their neck and they were fighting all the time. They asked her where are you going? As she looked so sad and was still crying. She told them her story of her search for Shitala Ma to save her son. The bulls asked her to ask Shitala Ma why are we fighting all the time. They told her they may have done something wrong in their previous life, as the flour grinding stones were painful and very very heavy. They asked her to tell Shitala Ma to help solve their problem.
As she continued her journey the daughter-in-law found an old lady; whose clothes were dirty sitting under a tree. Her hair was messy and she was scratching her head. The lady asked the daughter-in-law to come and look in her hair. The daughter-in-law put the basket with the baby inside on the floor. The lady told the daughter-in-law that it was really bothering her the itching, and she was feeling restless as it was so irritating. The daughter-in-law had a big heart and was very caring. She then started looking at the old ladies’ head. She removed lots of nits. The lady was so thankful and relived. She blessed the daughter-in-law and hoped her wishes came true. Suddenly there was a flash of lightening and the daughter-in-law was blinded by the light. She then saw Shitala Ma standing holding her laughing smiling baby boy alive in her lap. The daughter-in-law apologised to Shitala Ma for her mistake and Shitala Ma blessed her. Shitala Ma raised her hand and blessed the daughter-in-law and gave the smiling child back into her arms.
Then daughter-in-law then told Shitala Ma about the two lakes. They have asked to me for your help to solve their problem. Shitala Ma told the daughter-in-law in their previous lives they were both very cunning women, and when people asked for a butter milk drink they would dilute with water, they did other mean things. They are suffering for their misdeeds. She told the daughter-in-law to take the water from the lakes and sprinkle it in four directions saying Shitala Ma’s name, and then drink a little water. They will be freed or their sins, after this the lake will be safe for animals, birds and people to drink.
The daughter-in-law then asked about the two balls why did they continue to fight and had to be worn down by these heavy grinding stones. Shitala Ma said in their past life they were two sister-in-laws if people came for their help they would be mean and unhelpful. So, in this present life they had the burden of the heavy stones and kept quarrelling. Shitala Ma told the daughter-in-law to go to the bulls remove the grinding stones and then they will live happily. Shitala Ma then vanished in thin air.
On her journey back home with her laughing smiling son in the basket. The daughter-in-law then went to the bulls. She put the baby down and removed the heavy stones from the bulls neck. The bulls bowed as they were very grateful, they stopped arguing and were at peaceful without the weight of the grinding stones.
She then continued her journey back to the two lakes, she followed Shitala Ma’s instructions and sprinkled water in four directions and drunk a little. She was not harmed by the water and life return to the lakes, animal and birds enjoyed the pure water, and people began to use it.
The daughter-in-law then went home and put the smiling, laughing baby in her mother-in-law’s lap. They were all so happy. The eldest daughter-in-law became very jealous and did not like the praise and attention the youngest daughter-in-law was receiving.
The next year the eldest daughter-in-law was still extremely jealous and wanted to meet Shitala Ma and receive her blessings, as well as praise and attention from her mother-in-law. She started to cook on Randhan Chhath and purposely left the embers burning on the stove and went to play with her child and then fell asleep.
As the year before Shitala Ma had come and was annoyed by the hot embers as she got burnt. She cursed the eldest daughter-in-law whose son was burnt to death. The next morning the eldest daughter-in-law woke screaming and was shocked to see her son dead. Her mother-in-law advised her that she must go and find Shitala Ma and receive her blessings and apologise, as she had been cursed by Shitala Ma for leaving the embers burning on the stove.
On her journey the eldest daughter-in-law took her baby in the basket. She came across the two lakes, she was thirsty. The voice from the lakes told the lady not to drink the water as it was poisoned, and she would die. They asked the lady why are you crying and where are you going? She responded very rudely she was going to see Shitala Ma to remove a curse, and told them its none of their business where she is going and what she is doing. They asked for her help to ask Shitala Ma to remove the poison. The eldest daughter-in-law dismissed this request saying I am going to sort my own problems not yours. She was very rude and continued her journey.
The eldest daughter-in-law then saw two bulls arguing. The bulls were worn down by heavy flour grinding stones, the eldest daughter-in-law looked at them. They summoned her and asked her why she was crying and for her help. The eldest daughter-in-law responded rudely I have no time I have my own issues to solve and continued her journey.
The eldest daughter-in-law continued her journey, and saw a dirty lady with messy hair scratching her head under a tree. The lady called the eldest daughter-in-law and asked her for her help to check her head, why it was itching so much. The eldest daughter-in-law responded angrily you look yourself I am not like you. She then carried the baby in the basket and continued her journey to search for Shitala Ma.
The eldest daughter-in-law could not find Shitala Ma, and then returned home, with her son still dead in the basket. They family preformed the cremation ceremony. The eldest daughter-in-law lived a very unhappy and unfulfilled life, but the youngest daughter-in-law with the blessing of Shitala Ma and her kind heart lived a fruitful and happy life.
The moral of the story is: Always try and help others in need and be kind.
JAI SHITALA MA
Tale told in Gujarati by Neela Mistry (my amazing mum), and translated retold by Sunita Shah
Shitala Devi rides on a donkey, and she has four arms. In her hands she carries a silver broom, a fan, a small bowl, and a pot of water. She uses these items to rid a house of disease–she sweeps up the germs with her broom, uses the fan to collect them, and dumps them into the bowl. She then sprinkles water from the pot (which is water from the river Ganges) to purify the house. Shitala’s name means “the cooling one”. With the change of seasons and coming of the hot period, it is essential to emphasize the importance of hygiene for human health and the worship of Shitala Mata provides the motivation to keep the surroundings clean and hygienic.
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However, fasting is not only a part of worship but a great instrument for self-discipline too. It is a training of the mind and the body to endure and harden up against all hardships, to persevere under difficulties and not give up. According to Hindu philosophy, food means gratification of the senses and to starve the senses is to elevate them to contemplation. Luqman the wise once said, "When the stomach is full, the intellect begins to sleep. Wisdom becomes mute and the parts of the body restrain from acts of righteousness."
Hindus fast on certain days of the month such as Purnima (full moon) and Ekadasi (the 11th day of the fortnight).
Certain days of the week are also marked for fasting, depending on individual choices and on one's favourite god and goddess. On Saturday, people fast to appease the god of that day, Shani or Saturn. Some fast on Tuesdays, the auspicious day for Hanuman, the monkey God. On Fridays devotees of the goddess Santoshi Mata abstain from taking anything citric.
Fasting at festivals is common. Hindus all over India observe fast on festivals like Navaratri, Shivratri, and Karwa Chauth. Navaratri is a festival when people fast for nine days. Hindus in West Bengal fast on Ashtami, the eighth day of the festival of Durga Puja.
Fasting can also mean abstaining from eating only certain things, either for religious reason or for the sake of good health. For instance, some people refrain from consuming salt on particular days. It is common knowledge that excess salt and sodium causes hypertension or elevation of blood pressure.
Another common kind of fast is to forego taking cereals when only fruits are eaten. Such a diet is known as phalahar.
The underlying principle behind fasting is to be found in Ayurveda. This ancient Indian medical system sees the basic cause of many diseases as the accumulation of toxic materials in the digestive system. Regular cleansing of toxic materials keeps one healthy. By fasting, the digestive organs get rest and all body mechanisms are cleansed and corrected. A complete fast is good for heath, and the occasional intake of warm lemon juice during the period of fasting prevents flatulence.
Since the human body, as explained by Ayurveda, is composed of 80 percent liquid and 20 percent solid like the earth, the gravitational force of the moon affects the fluid contents of the body. It causes emotional imbalances in the body, making some people tense, irritable, and violent. Fasting acts as an antidote, for it lowers the acid content in the body which helps people to retain their sanity.
Ref: Das, Subhamoy. "Religious Fasting in Hinduism." learnreligions.com/why-fast-in-hinduism-1770050.
]]>According to Vaishnava scriptures, King Bali defeated the Gods and began ruling over all three worlds. King Bali was a demon king who belonged to the Asura tribe. The Gods got insecure of King Bali’s popularity and asked Lord Vishnu to step in and help contain Bali. It is said that the great king was sent to the underworld by Vamana (5th Avatar of Lord Vishnu), but was given an allowance to visit his people once a year, hence Onam. The festival celebrates the return from the underworld of King Bali, who was considered a great ruler. Legend has it that when Bali ruled, there was no discrimination based on caste, and there was no corruption or crime.
The Kerala government made it an official holiday in the 1960s. The area in Kochi called Thrikkakkara is particularly significant during the festival, because of its temple. Much like during Diwali, people place flower arrangements around their community, and outside their homes, called ‘Pookkalam’. They are considered auspicious and are placed to welcome King Bali.
Among other traditions associated with Onam are the various boat races known as ‘Vallam Kali’, which are held in Kerala’s many water bodies. Boats ranging from the iconic snake boat to canoes and paddled long boats are used for these races.
Much like other festivals in the country, Onam is also celebrated with song and dance. The traditional Thirvathira kali, where groups of women perform in a circle in accompaniment to various folk songs, is particularly popular. More striking but perhaps less graceful is the puli kali (tiger dance) wherein artists painted like tigers or leopards dance through the streets to the beat of traditional instruments. Usually wearing masks, the dancers mimic tigers.
Traditional Onasadhya or Onam sadhya (feast). This vegetarian feast is comprised of 20 to 30 dishes served on a traditional banana leaf and is one of the most central parts of Onam. With rice as the main dish, the feast includes a variety of lentil and vegetable preparations with plenty of coconut.
Happy Onam do you celebrate this festival?
]]>A Kalpa, or eon, is said to be comprised of a thousand cycles of four yugas—each of a different quality. By one estimate, a single yuga cycle is said to be 4.32 million years, and a Kalpa is said to consist of 4.32 billion years
The four great periods in Hinduism are Satya Yuga, Treta Yuga, Dwapar Yuga, and Kali Yuga. Satya Yug or the Age of Truth is said to last for 4,000 divine years, Treta Yuga for 3,000, Dwapara Yug for 2,000 and Kali Yuga will last for 1,000 divine years—a divine year equalling 432,000 earthly years.
Hindu tradition holds that three of these great ages of this current universe have already passed away, and we are now living in the fourth one—the Kali Yuga. Reading about Kali Yuga and seeing what is going on in the world right now personally for me it explains a lot! …..but one cannot some it up in a simple sentence like that, as with everything else in Hinduism there are deeper and more symbolic meanings.
Another theory interprets these periods of time to represent the degree of loss of righteousness in the world. This theory suggests that during Satya Yuga, only truth prevailed (Sanskrit Satya = truth). During the Treta Yuga, the universe lost one-fourth of the truth, Dwapar lost one-half of the truth, and now the Kali Yuga is left with only one-fourth of the truth. Evil and dishonesty have therefore gradually replaced truth in the last three ages.
We are said to currently be living in the Kali Yuga—in a world infested with impurities and vices. The numbers of people possessing noble virtues are diminishing day by day. Floods and famine, war and crime, deceit, and duplicity characterise this age. Look at the world right now and this global pandemic.
Kali Yuga has two phases: In the first phase, humans—having lost the knowledge of the two higher selves—possessed knowledge of the "breath body" apart from the physical self. Now during the second phase, however, even this knowledge has deserted humanity, leaving us only with the awareness of the gross physical body. This may explain why humankind is now more preoccupied with the physical self than any other aspect of existence.
Due to our preoccupation with our physical bodies and our lower selves, and because of our emphasis on the pursuit of gross materialism, this age has been termed the Age of Darkness—an age when we have lost touch with our inner selves, an age of profound ignorance.
Both the two great epics—the Ramayana and Mahabharata—have spoken about the Kali Yuga. In the Tulasi Ramayana, we find the Sage Kakbhushundi foretelling:
In the Kali Yuga, the hotbed of sin, men and women are all steeped in unrighteousness and act contrary to the Vedas. Every virtue had been engulfed by the sins of Kali Yuga; all good books had disappeared; impostors had promulgated a number of creeds, which they had invented out of their own wit. The people had all fallen prey to delusion and all pious acts had been swallowed by greed.
In the Mahabharata (Santi Parva), the hero Yudhishthir says: The ordinances of the Vedas disappear gradually in every successive age, the duties in the Kali age are entirely of another kind. It seems, therefore, that duties have been laid down for the respective age according to the powers of human beings in the respective ages.
The sage Vyasa, later on, clarifies: In the Kali Yuga, the duties of the respective order disappear and men become afflicted by inequity.
After writing my book the 10 Avatars of Vishnu, Vishnu incarnates himself again to save to world and rid it of evil coming in the form of Kalki. According to Hindu cosmology, it is predicted that at the end of the Kali Yuga, Lord Shiva will destroy the universe and the physical body will undergo a great transformation. After the dissolution, Lord Brahma will recreate the universe, and humankind will become the beings of truth once again.
(Ref: Learn Religions)
]]>On the day of Nori Nem, after bathing women dress in nice colourful clothes, to commence the ‘Nori Nem’ Pooja. To celebrate the festival they cook a simple meal. They cook five or seven sprouted beans (the beans have been pre-soaked and sprouted a couple of days before), this is known as “vadhu” in Gujarati. This is served with a millet chapati known as “rotlo”, and milk.
]]>On the day of Nori Nem, after bathing women dress in nice colourful clothes, to commence the ‘Nori Nem’ Pooja. To celebrate the festival they cook a simple meal. They cook five or seven sprouted beans (the beans have been pre-soaked and sprouted a couple of days before), this is known as “vadhu” in Gujarati. This is served with a millet chapati known as “rotlo”, and milk.
The pooja is performed with diva made of oil, and the offerings made are fruit, rice, milk, flowers, abil (white colour powder), gulal (pink colour powder), and Kukum (red coloured powder). The tradition is after this meal has been eaten, women should not to continue their daily chores, especially chopping and cutting food.
The story of Nori Nem is then retold with the woman in the villages eating and telling the story together.
THE TALE OF NORI NEM
In a remote village in India there lived a poor Brahmin (priest) and his wife (Gorma). After a number of years of marriage, they did not have any children. Infront of their hut there was a berry tree. A male and female bird sat on the tree near to the hut. The Brahmin had gone out, but his wife was lying in the veranda and heard the two birds talking. The birds were going to build a nest, when one of the birds said, ‘We cannot build a nest near this hut, as the wife could not conceive a child’. The bird continued to say, ‘A house without children is empty’. They both flew away back into the jungle.
The Brahmin’s wife understood the language of the birds. She was very upset hearing what they said. She began to pray to the god and goddesses; wishing that if she even had one child, her sorrows would end. She would bring up the child in the most caring and loving way.
In the meantime, the Brahmin returned, and she said to him that without children their house is empty and even the birds are upset. They flew away and would not build a nest next to a childless home she told him.
She then told her husband that she wanted to end her childless life. She pleaded to her husband that by evening he must bring her a child to adopt. The Brahmin replied that it is not easy to adopt a child by evening. He thought that her idea was crazy. Who would give up their beloved child to them? He told her why are you being so determined to adopt a child from anywhere. The woman told her husband that she will not eat any food until he returns with a child. She told him that he must bring home whoever he meets first, and that she will look after the child as her own. The Brahmin had no choice, as he loved his wife and wanted to make her happy. He always fulfilled her wishes, and he left the hut.
As the Brahmin was walking along in search of a child to adopt. The first child he came across was a baby mongoose. He took it with love and brought it home and put it in her lap. He said here is your son. His wife was very happy, she started to raise the mongoose like her own son. The wife cared for the mongoose day and night like her own son, feeding and loving the mongoose. Her dedication and love to the mongoose did not go unnoticed. The gods blessed her with her own son after nine months. She raised both the mongoose and her son equally.
One day she put her son in the cot and asked the mongoose brother to look after him whilst she went to get water. The mongoose nodded obediently. While she was away, a snake entered the house, and started to slither towards the baby. The mongoose knew that the snake would attack and kill his baby brother. The mongoose started fighting with the snake and they were exhausted. The mongoose shredded the snake to pieces. He was covered in the snake’s blood.
The mongoose felt that he had been very brave saving his brother. He thought, ‘Let me greet mother on the way home, and tell her that I saved my baby brother from a snake’. He thought his mother would be very happy. From afar the mother saw the mongoose’s face covered in blood and instantly thought he had attacked the baby. The mongoose son came close to his mother, she threw the clay pot full of water on the mongoose. The mongoose’s back broke, and she ran home. The mongoose dragged himself into the kitchen and hid in the buttermilk pot. When she entered the room the baby was laughing, happily playing in the cot. She deeply regretted her actions and wondered where the mongoose had gone, she wondered if she will ever see him again. She was so upset and cried looking for her mongoose son. She was exhausted and fell asleep for a little while, even her husband the Brahmin was very annoyed with her. He told her that what has happened has happened and we cannot change things.
The wife took an oath, she said that until I find my mongoose son I will not drink or eat. She continued with her daily chores and began to churn the buttermilk in the pot; where the mongoose was hiding. She added hot water and started churning, she saw pieces of the mongoose’s body floating on the top of the buttermilk. She became very distressed, she started to cry; what have I done she thought, ‘I threw a pot at him and now he is in pieces dead, and that with my own bare hands churning milk’. She felt so regretful and told her husband she will only return home once her mongoose son is alive. She will sacrifice herself for him, because of the mongoose’s blessings she got her own son.
On her way to resurrect her son the Brahmin’s wife came across lots of people asking her where she was going. She told them about her dead mongoose son and if they could help to resurrect him. People said this is impossible, she was dismayed but politely thanked them and continued her journey.
As she was walking, she came along a tree of berries. Sitting under the tree there was an old woman with dishevelled hair. The Brahmin’s wife told the old woman the story of her mongoose son. The old woman said to her it is impossible to revive the dead.
The old woman requested the Brahmin’s wife if she would be kind enough to look in her itching head. The Brahmin’s wife obliged and helped to relive the itch. The old woman was very pleased. The old woman then looked into the pot containing the parts of the mongoose’s dead body. As soon as the old woman touched the pot a miracle happened. The Brahmin’s wife heard a rumbling sound from the pot, the mongoose was alive! The Brahmin’s wife was happy and excited to see her mongoose son alive. The mongoose jumped out of the pot and sat in his mother’s lap.
Instantly the Brahmin’s wife realised that the old woman was not an ordinary human being but a goddess, the goddess known as ‘Nori Maa’. Nori Maa has super-natural powers to revive the dead and work miracles. Nori Maa said to the Brahmin’s wife today is an auspicious day, I revived your mongoose son, and we shall name this day as, ‘Nori Nem’; any woman who observes a fast on this day of Nori Nem will receive the blessing and protection of Goddess Nori Maa.
The ninth day of Shravan is the festival of Nori Nem to worship Nori Maa. It has shown the true dedication of a mother. Whoever fasts on this day will receive blessings and protection for their children. Couple who also want to be blessed with a child observe the fast for blessings.
Jai Nori Maa
Translated from Gujarati by my wonderful mum Neelaben Mistry and re-written by Sunita Shah and my dad Dalubhai Mistry.
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