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Hello, All!!

Thank you for visiting my blog. I started it after my yahoo geocities website was shut down.

I've transferred much of the material to a new website, The Daily Hindu.  [This website is dead]

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Thanks,

Swati

Update: The above website was hosted on Apple's website service.  That went down.  I couldn't figure out how to move from that service to a new website, so I no longer have a website.  If I figure out how to create a website, I will post a link to it here.  Sorry about that, folks!

Hindu Gods

HINDU GODS

Ganesh - This God of knowledge and the remover of obstacles is also the second son of Lord Shiva. Lord Ganesha is also called Vinayak ( knowledgeable ) or Vighneshwer (god to remove obstacles). He is worshipped, and always remembered in the beginning of any auspicious performance for blessings and auspiciousness.

He has four hands, elephant's head and a big belly. His vehicle is a tiny mouse. In his hands he carries a rope (to carry devotees to the truth), an axe (to cut devotees' attachments), and a sweet dessert ball -laddoo- (to reward devotees for spiritual activity). His fourth hand's palm is always extended to bless people.

A unique combination of his elephant-like head and a quick moving tiny mouse vehicle represents tremendous wisdom, intellegence, and presence of mind.

Shiva - Lord Shiva is affectionately called 'Bhola Bhandari' which means that He is 'easy to please'. You perform certain Rituals and the Lord blesses you and answers your prayers. The Crescent Moon that adorns His head indicate that He is the Lord of time, as people of yore would read the time by the movement of the Sun and Moon. The ash that He smears on His body denote that He is an Ascetic. Snakes adorn His neck and arms, showing that He is unafraid.

Lord Shiva has been called 'The Nataraja' The Lord of the Dance. Birth and Death, Formation and Decay, Change and Movement occur all the time as it is the Law of the Universe. The above is symbolized in the Dance of Shiva.

He is Master of the serpents. Shivji uses them as ornaments. He is the Lord of the tiger. Shivji sits on its skin. Maybe His drum symbolises the heart-beat of Creation. From His hands and head flow benediction for Mankind. He owns innumerable forms and names. Shivji transcends good and evil and is beyond joy and sorrow. He is part of, and yet beyond the polarities of life. Probably the reason why so many are attracted to Shivji is because in Him they witness the complete Cosmic force. So many remain loyal to Shivji for life because He liberates them from the
eternal cycle of birth and rebirth.

Muruga - Muruga or Kartikaye is the first son of lord Shiva His manifestation occurred when the devas, the celestial people, were being oppressed by an Asura (demon) by the name of Taraka. He is the conjoint manifestation ot Shiva and Sakti.He later moved to the southern hills of india to teach Religion to the tribals.

When Shiva was deeply absorbed in his spiritual exube rance, forgetting the world he was disturbed by cupid. Sakti was also observing penance to get the grace of Shiva. When Shiva opened his eyes, he burnt cupid. At that time six flashes, like lightning emerged, five from the five senses and one from the mi nd of Shiva. These became six babies and the cosmic mother Sakti rolled these into one baby with six heads and twelve arms. Because of this evolutionary process, Muruga is also known as Subramaniam, Shanmuka, six-faced one. The six heads represent six rays or attributes, viz., wisdom, dispassion, strength, fame, Wealth and divine power.

Muruga has two wives , Valli and Deivanai. They represent will (Valli) and action (Deivanai) He also holds a spear given to hirn by his mother Sakti for removing the evil force of Taraka This spear (Vel) represents (jnana) knowledge. These three together denote the three cosmic energies of governing will, action and knowledge. He rides on a peacock, indicative of conquering pride egoism and vanity.

Rama - Sri Rama was the 8th incarnation of Mahavishnu. He appeared in the Treta yug. He and his three brothers Lakshman, Bharath and Shatrugna were born to three wives of King Dasharatha. Ram and his brothers were the sons of Dasharatha and their mothers Kaushalya, Sumitra and Kaikayee. They were conceived in their mothers' wombs as a result of eating portions of (The Divya Kheer)sacred porridge given by Agnidev ( God of Fire).

He is known as the hero in the Ramayana as he was a king who left his throne for his brother Bharath to please his third mother Kaikayee. For this reason he stayed in the forest for 14 years.

His main purpose was to defeat the evil and to slay the demon king Ravan who had kidnapped his wife Sita ( Janaki).

Krishna - Krishna is the 9th incarnation of Mahavishnu. The God of love. He appeared in the Dwarapar yug. Krishna was born to destroy the evil in the world and to Slay the demon demons in specific was Demon Kans, He was born as the eighth son to Vasudev and Devaki in Mathura and grew up in Gokul by Nand and Yashoda where He stole butter and fed his friends, he looked after the cows in the village and fed them, the women in the village were crazy about his melodious flute and his hansome looks that the women of Gokul and Mathura always prayed for Krishna to be their husbands.

Krishna is recognised by many other names such as Govind, Gopal, Keshav aswell as Shrinathji, Ranchhod Rai, Dwarikadheesh (in Gujrat) Vithhal, Vithhoba, Panduranga (in Maharashtra) Jaggannath ( in Orrisa and Nepal)Ranganath and Guruvayoorappan

(in the south).

Hanuman - Lord Hanuman is the god of strenght.He is the son of Anjani and was born in Anjaneri.Anjaneri is near Triambakeshwar, Nasik - a pilgrim village in Maharashtra State. He is the son of Anjani and Maruti, born with the blessings of 'Vayu', the wind god (also called Pavan). He is considered to be an avatar (incarnation) of Lord Shiva.
He is one of the seven Chiranjivis and the only learned scholar who knew the nine Vyakaranas. He learned the shastras from Suryadev, the sun god. He is well versed with the Vedas and other sacred books.
He has exhibited astonishing physical strength and worked many miracles. His valour, wisdom, knowledge of the scriptures and superhuman strength attracted everybody who came near him. He had extraordinary skill in warfare. He is the chosen messenger of Lord Rama and the minister & messenger of Sugreeva. Hanuman is fast, the most agile and oriented god.

Hanumanji is the symbol of Devotion and Service. Like Krishna, Rama is an incarnation of Vishnu whose elevated character and righteous actions are designed to inspire men to divine consciousness.

Ayyappa - Ayyapa&nnbsp; or Manikandan is a god worshipped in south india. He is the son born to Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu. He has many names such as Hari-hara putra ( son of Shiva and Vishnu ), Dharma Shasta ( protector of religion), KaliyugaVardhan ( Lord of the new age).

To save the earth from the deadly poisson of evil the gods and demons joined together to churn the milky ocean to gather "Amrut '' nectar. They collected the "Amrut" in a pot who was carreid by Lord Dhanvanthari , and kept it to be served at a heavenly feast. When the demon Rahu stole the pot to feed the demons, When the loss of the nectar was detected, Lord Vishnu took a form of Mohini, a woman of exquisite beauty, and brought and back the "Amrut" and served it to the gods. While Mohini was serving the Amrut, Shiva got intoxicated with her beauty who was in reality Vishnu. Shiva and Vishnu became one and formed the swaroop of Hari-hara as a result of the homosexual act, gave birth to Ayyappa from his thigh. Both Shiva and Vishnu discarded this un-naturally born illegitimate child in the forests of Sabarimalai in Kerala.

Venkateshwara - Venkateshwara is the form of MahaVishnu is also very popular as a Hindu deity as he is the preserver in the trinity. He is also known as Balaji or Vithala.

He has a dark complexion and four hands. In his two upper hands he holds a discus Chakra (a symbol of power) and a conch shell Shankha (a symbol of existence). With his lower hands extended downward he asks devotees to have faith and surrender to him for protection.

His temple is located in Tirumala in Andhra Pradesh known as one of the famous temples in south india.

Shirdi Sai / Sathya Sai - Shirdi Sai Baba ( left side of picture) was the incarnation of Shiva Lord Shiva came as the son of Gangabhavadya and Devagiri Amma, a poor old couple in the village of Pathri in Maharashtra-(India). In this manifestation, the world knew him as Shirdi Sai. Sri Shirdi Sai Baba, the first Avatar in the Sai Trinity was born on September 27,1836 in a forest to a poor, simple couple from the village of Parthi.
Shirdi was, at the time, just a small village near Kopergaon in Maharashtra.It has now become a place of pilgrimage.Shirdi Sai , in other words Lord Shiva, in keeping with his promise given to Bharadwaja Muni in thehoary past, took His second Avatar when He, along with His consort-Parvati-manifested himself as Satyanarayana Raju - son of Pedda Venkappa Raju and his wife Easwaramma of Puttaparthi on 23rd November, 1926.

The world knows Shirdi Sai today as Sathya Sai Baba( right side of picture ). The sleepy village of Puttaparthi of district Ananthapur in Andhra Pradesh is well on its way to becoming the hub of the world. Millions upon millions of devotees flock from all over the world to seek the Darshan and Blessings of the Yugavatar or the Avatar of the Age. Many of these millions have recognised that Sathya Sai Baba is not just a guru but a miraculous saint who has helped alot of poor and sick people buy building a heart transplant hospital, providing free education for children and much more.

Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai has chosen to reveal that sometime in the second quarter of the 21st Century will come the third Sai Avatar as Prema Sai (which will be the Parvati or the Shakti Avatar) after Sathya Sai casts off his mortal coil when he has completed the task he has assigned himself.
Navagrahas: The Navagrahas are the planet deities.Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn give names to the days of the week: Sunday to Saturday respectively. The other two Rahu (Ascending node) and Ketu (Descending node) are also fabled as planets, the former as a planet with a head and no body and the latter as a planet with a body and no head.

In addition to the nine planets, twenty seven nakshatras (constellations) through which the moon passes and twelve signs of zodiac of the sun, regarded as deities, are consulted at births, marriages and on al occasions of family rejoicing, distress or calamity. Shanti (Peace) propitiation ceremony is held to appease any unfavorable constellations.

The planets could be complimentary or inimical to an individual. The navagraha could give harmony or misery to the individual as per its movements. One has to do Shanthis or Parikaras (propitiatory actions to counter the ill effects) for the particular planet (s) and its/their Lords (Gods); such direct appeals to the concerned planets and their Lords will give quick and timely results. The Navagraha Sthothram, given below, is so powerful, it appeals to all the planets and safeguards the reciter from any planetary ill effects.

1. Surya - The Sun is the most powerful living God - whom everyone can see, perceive and pray. Though he is visible, he also has been presented in a variety of forms. Lord of this planet is God Siva

2. Chandra - The Moon is a lovable God - Pleasing to the children as well as elders, universally appealing to everyone whatever may be the religion. Goddess Parvathi rules the planet.

3. Mangal - Mars is regarded as a God of martial character, red in every aspect. Even the Romans held him as their Guru. He is the Son of Earth and is ruled by Lord Karthikeya.

4. Budha - Mercury is considered as the greatest among the wise. This Devata bestows wisdom and wealth on his devotees. He is ruled by Lord Maha Vishnu.

5. Brihaspati - is the Guru (Jupiter). He results in a cure from ailments and helps one to ward off his/her sins and gives strength, valour, longevity, etc. He grants the boon of fatherhood to the childless, good education (Vidya). He is ruled by Lord Dakshinamurthy.

6. Sukra - Venus is the bestower of long life, wealth, happiness, children, property and good education. He is ruled by Goddess Mahalakshmi.

7. Saniswara - Saturn is generally known to affect one adversely on occasions when he occupies certain positions in one's horoscope. A prayer to him, especially on Saturdays, is said to mitigate the hardships one will have to face during these periods. Saniswara is considered equally a bestower of all benefits to the devotees who pray sincerely to him. He is ruled by Lord Yama.

8. Rahu - is instrumental in strengthening one's power and converting even an enemy into a friend. He is ruled by Goddess Durga.

9. Ketu - brings prosperity to the devotee's family. He grants good health, wealth, cattle and all around prosperity. He is ruled by Lord Ganesha and Indra.

Explanations from Jai Mata Ji.

Hindu Goddesses

HINDU GODDESSES

Ambaji - Ambaji or Durga mata represents the power of the Supreme Being that preserves moral order and righteousness in the creation. The Sanskrit word Durga means a fort or a place that is protected and thus difficult to reach. Durga, also called Divine Mother, protects mankind from evil and misery by destroying evil forces such as selfishness, jealousy, prejudice, hatred, anger, and ego.

The worship of Goddess Durga is very popular among Hindus. She is also called by many other names, such as Parvati, Bhavani, and Kali In the form of Parvati, She is known as the divine spouse of Lord Shiva and is the mother of Her two sons, Ganesha and Karttikeya. There are many temples dedicated to Durga's worship in India.

In Her images, Goddess Durga is shown in a female form, wearing red clothes. She has eight arms, carrying many objects in Her hands. The red color symbolizes action and the red clothes signify that She is always busy destroying evil and protecting mankind from pain and suffering caused by evil forces. Following is the symbolism associated with Goddess Ambaji.

Maha Kali - Kali is Sakthi ( the source of power ) embodied in a female form. Shiva and shakti are known as one Power. She is known to be the fiercest goddess ever. Kali is Parvati herself.

This goddess is seen with four arms holding a Khadagh ( thick axelike sword ) on her top left, a head of a demon on her top right, a trident on her bottom left and a vessel of blood on her bottom right which she drinks. In another illusion she is also seen with ten arms holding various weapons.

She wears a garland of heads and a petticoat of arms.

There were so many demons and evil which took over earth and heaven that big corruption in the cosmos outraged she became so angry that she turned black and her eyes turned red.. No god or goddess could do anything to calm her . Even the great gods of the trinity Brahma and Vishnu were terified.

In this condition all the gods and goddesses went to Lord Shiva who had a solution.

He lay down on the ground on which the big war of chaos had taken place where Kali was slaying the demons. Kali misakingly tred on Lord Shivas corpse. She looked down and was so shoked that she pulled out her tongue and cried out ‘ My Lord!’ shed made a big mistake by tredding on him. Lord shiva calmed the mother goddess.

Mahalakshmi - Mahalakshmi is the great goddess of granting wealth, she is the daughter of the ocean, the spouse of Vishnu. She is seated on a big pink lotus dressed in Red adorned with ever shining golden jewels.

Altogether there are eight forms of Lakshmi ( Ashta Lakshmi) such as Adhi Lakshmi, Veer Lakshmi, Gaja Lakshmi, Dhan Lakshmi, Dhanya Lakshmi,Aishwarya Lakshmi, Vijaya Lakshmi and Santana Lakshmi. All of these Lakshmis represent specific goals in life that the goddess grants.

She holds lotuses on her top left and right arms, and on her bottom left and right hand are the abhay hasta mudra (hand which showers blessings) and Varada hasta mudra from which she endlessly showers money (and boons)with.

She has many names such as Kamadhenu (in form of the holy cow), Kamala ( the one on the lotus ), Narayani ( the spouse of Narayan),Kalyani (ever merciful ).

Saraswati -Saraswati or Brahmmani or Brahmatani is the mother goddess of practising knowledge and music, the spouse of the creator Lord Brahma. She is the creater of the seven sounds, She is known as the mother goddess that sits upon ones tongue and our voice is the power of this mother goddess. She is seated on a white lotus or a swan dressed in White silk.

She holds a mala ( rosery beads ) on her top left hand, The Vedas) a text of scriptures on her bottom right hand, and is always seen playing the Veena ( instument form of a sitar ).

Meenakshi - Meenakshi is another form of the mother goddess Parvati (spouse of Shiva) , The mother goddesses temple is known to be very famous in Madurai (south india). She was the powerful princess of Madurai, She rode horses,tamed elephants wresteled bulls and hunted lions.

She led her armies to conquer the four corners of the world and defeated many kings and war lords.At the foot hills of the himalayas she found out of a hermit who refused to aknowledge anyones suzerainty.She had fell in love with Shiva and married him in Madurai and was blessed by Lord Vishnu. The divine place where thay got married is turned into a holy pillgrimage in Madurai.

Santoshi Santoshi maa is the goddess of patience, She is the daughter of lord Ganesh. The appearance of this mother goddess took place when the two sons of Mansa devi wanted a sister to tie a rakhi ( sacred string symbolising a bond of love) on their hands. Women pay oaths and seek this goddesses blessings by doing a (vrat) fasting on Fridays by avoiding sour food as it is a auspicious day for Santoshi maa.

The goddess came on earth to help her devotees in difficult conditions. When there was a conflict between the three goddessess Parvati Saraswati and Mahalakshmi. Santoshi maa helped her devotees to show how compassionate she was and just as much powerful.

The four armed goddess holds a sword on her top left, a trident on her top right, her bottom left hand known as the (Abhaya hasta mudra) which showers blessings. She holds a bowl of kheer (rice pudding) on her bottom right which is the mother godessesses favourite feast.

Chamunda - Chamunda mata or Rann-chandi ( warrrior goddess ) is the goddess of power and another form of Durga.Her illusion is twinlike as she is also called Chandi-Chamunda. The fierce mother goddess has big eyes dressed in red and green adorned with garlands of flowers and in front of her is vehicle the Lion.Her temple is very famous in Gujrat on the moutain named Chotila.

Two Demons named 'Chanda' and 'Munda' did great penance for many years to please Lord Brahma. When Brahma was pleased he apeared in front of them and the demons asked for being very strong warriors and that they would rule the world and take over heaven. Lord Brahma was merciful so he granted the wish.

There was big chaos in the world and the demons became very greedy and attempted to take over heaven aswell as the three abodes of Vishnu (Vaikunth), Shiva (Kailas) and Brahma (Brahmalok ).The three gods went to the mother goddess Parvati who took the form of Chandi and Chamunda who slayed Chand and mund.

Gayatri - Gayatri is the mother goddess who which disperses the clouds of ignorance and lets the aspirant see the spiritual sun, which shines eternally behind those clouds and his oneness with that sun.This goal is achieved from the form of Gayatri.

She has five faces of different colours, ten hands carrying different things, and ten graceful eyes, She is sitting on a red Lotus. Each of her faces symbolise a specific meaning such as:
1) Pearl Colour: Pearls are collected from sea from the bosom of snails. Snails come to the surface of the sea with their eyes and mouth open. When it rains, the rain drops fall into their mouth and if at the time the rain drops fall into their mouth, the snails swasthi nakshatra (star) in the sky and absorb its radiation into them, then the rain drops are converted into original pearls (as distinct from cultured Pearls). These original Pearls are divine in Nature. Thus the first face of Gayatri is of Pearl colour, giving out the luster of Pearls (representing briliance).

2) Coral Colour: (ie. bright red) (one of the nine gems). The second face develops the principle of nitchala Tattwa in the aspirants mind (still mind).

3) Gold Colour: Very bright both in colour and quality. Mere seeing the gold and exposing ourselves into its luster promote good quality and external charm in the aspirant.

4) Blue colour representing the Sky: Sea is blue in colour. Sree Mahavishnu

(Lord Narayana) is also blue in colour (Vishnu tattwa). This face fosters the aspirant with all wealth and also Divine Grace from Lord Narayana.

5) White face: This face represents purity. It develops purity in the mind of the aspirant and also grants divine grace from Saraswati (the goddess for wisdom).


Durga - Durga or Mahisasura-mardini is the fiercce goddess who slayed the buffalo headed demon ‘Mahisasura’.

When the demon did hard penance to Lord Brahma he asked Lord Brahma to grant him a boon that he would be a very strong warrior that would never die being slayed from any Gods of the trinity nor any animal or creature and if he was to be killed it would be done by the hands of a Kanya-kumari ( female virgin ).

Brahma gave him the boon and Mahisasura became very selfish and begun to cause chaos in the world, he begun to harm and hurt the people, rushis and munis (sages) who worshipped Shiva and Parvati and the other Gods.

By this corruption a point came where Mahisasura along with many other evil demons and beasts were rocking the whole cosmos with chaos.

The three Gods of the trinity ( Brahma, Vishnu Shiva ) were terrified and helpless therefore they went to the mother goddess Parvati who had a solution, the three goddesses Parvati, Mahalakshmi and Saraswati got together and created a new Mother goddess.This was Durga mata. All the gods came and gave her gifts of various weapons arms and powers to kill the demon. The goddess was so fierce that the gods stood back as she shouted ‘Pralay ho!’ ( saying she was ready for the battle ).

Durga mounted on a Lion and left for the battle. Not only Mahisasura but she slayed and killed all the other demons and beasts and her lion ate their meat. She sliced the heads of demons and burnt them into ashes in the ‘homa kunda’ ( vessel of fire ) which she holds on her top right. The battle lasted for nine days and nine nights.It is believed that Mahisasura was slayed on the eighth day which is known as (Ashtami ).

The slaying of Mahisasura is the reason behind why hindus and sikhs celebrate Navratri. ( which symbolises celebrating the victory of good over evil )

Kamakshi - Kamakshi is the supreme goddess of beautty and the embodiment of tranquillity.She is the godess who sits in the Shri Chakra which is a ( Yantra ) spiritual diagram made of many quadrilaterals used to view and concentrate during yoga meditation.

She is also known as Lalitambika and Tripurasundari.

She is seen in a glamorous and beautiful form seated in a lotus dressed in red and adorned with golden jewels with gems and pearls. The four armed goddess has a noose and goad on the top left and top right, a lotus and a bow of sugar cane ( which symbolises sweetness in life ) on her bottom left and right.

The appearance of this goddess took place when Kamadev ( god of love ) was burnt into ashes by the opening of Lord Shivas third eye.Lord. Chitra karma ( god of art ) collected the ashes and drew a picture of a man from the sprinkling. Shiva glanced at the ash figure which leaped into life.Chitra Karma advised the man that he was born due to the glance of lord Shivas merciful eyes hence he should do penance to Lord Shiva and recite the Shata Rudriya. ( mantra ).

After Lord Shiva was pleased he blessed the man with overlordship of the world for sixty thousands years.Hearing this Lord Brahma feared that there would be havoc and chaos in the world he cried out in despair ‘Bhand! hey Bhand! Therfore the man was known as Bhanda. He took over Lord Indras heaven and earth and caused great havoc.Due to this Lord Indra decided to do a Homa (sacrifical fire) to please ‘Shakti’ the mother goddess, From this fire arose a Beautiful Shri Chakra from which appeared the Mother goddess known as Kamakshi. Mother Kamakshmi told the gods and goddesses not to fear and that Bhand will soon come to an end. There was a big battle which lasted for four days and the Goddess Kamakshi killed Bhanda with all his kinsmen.Indra came back to heaven and thanked the goddess and peace was spread all over earth.

Bhagwathi Randal - Randal Maa is the Goddess who appeared as the daughter of Vishwakarma (God of Architecture). She is known as Sandhya and Chhaya in the Vedas. She came down to earth as a form of a girl when the earth dried upand there was no granary and fruit growing due to no rain. She made the clouds thunder and the clouds burst out with rain, the soil became rich as her feet touch the earth. Soon all the fields and gardens begun to bloom green. She was no ordinary girl but had super natural powers from which she healed the sick and cured them including the blind. Couples who could not give birth to children beared fruit due to the powers of Randal Maa. She is known to be the wife of Surya (God of the Sun).

Randal Maa once took a form of a horse (Ghodi) and came to earth. Surya wanted her to stay with her, Thus she divided herself into two forms Sandhya (twilight) and Chhaya (Shadow) She is also worshiped today and her miraculous powers still exist as she is possesed by many. People get healed from her possesed spirit and seek her for guidance in relationships and other matters in life. Her main Temple is located in Dadva (Saurashtra in Gujarat).

Marriamman - Marriamman is the goddess related to disseases such as chicken pox, small pox and fevers especially to the lethal affliction of feverish clinging to the illusions of an ego-oriented way of life. She is also known as Sheethala and Gowri. She is another form of the goddess Parvati herself. She embodies the sacred energies and evolutionary forces of Mother Earth. She is related to the Kundalini fire raising up from the Muladhara Chakra.

It is believed that this deity was once installed at the Sri Rangan temple near Tiruchirapalli. As the chief priest felt that he was suffering from some malevolent effect from the Goddess, he asked the workers at the temple to remove the idol from the temple. The workers carried the idol northwards and put it down in a place called Kannanoor and left it there. Some people passing by who saw this idol left unattended in the middle of the village informed the local villagers who named the idol Kannaoor Mariamman and established a shrine there.

Her temples are located in Samaypoorum - Tiruchirappalli (South India), also in Singapore and Malaysia.

Khodiyaar Maa - Khodiyaar Maa is the goddess oof super natural powers. Maamaldev and his wife were childless. Maamaldev could not bear being called a childless. Often people in the village would not even look at the couples faces.There was such hate. Although Maamaldev was a childless he had extreme love and faith in Lord Shiva. He told his wife that oneday surely Lord Shiva will grant us a boon.

Oneday a group or hermits and sages came to their house for a meal. As soon as they found out that the couple wer childess (auspicious) they refused to take their meals and left. Maamaldev could not bear it now, He decided to go to Lord Shiva's temple to do penance and if he didnt grant him a boon of a child he'd slice his head and sacfrice it above the Lingam of Lord Shiva. He begun to do hard penance with love and affection. As soon as he put his Sword above his neck to slice it, Lord Shiva appeared as a flash of thunder in front of the altar. Maamaldev was full of such emotion and begun to cry. Shiva told him and his wife to go to the caves of Naagdevata ( Lord of the Cobras)and that Naagdevata will fulfil their wish, and thats what they did.

The next early morning as the village was asleep. Maamaldev and his wife saw a mysterious illusion, seven cobras appeared from the golden sky slowly coming towards them and landend in front of them, they turned into six baby girls and one baby boy.Infact It was no illusion but a reality. In which baby Khodiyaar was the girl who had super natural powers.

She came to protect people from witchcraft and black magic. She gave boons of children to the childless, helped the poor and healed the sick. She also healed her brother 'Merakhiyo' from a snake bite. The people in the village were shocked and changed. Now they began to respect Maamal dev and to worship Khodiyaar Maa.

Her main temple is in Maatel (Gujarat - India) She is also possesed by many today.

Bahuchara Mata - Bahuchara mata is the goddess worshiped by transexuals. She is seated on a rooster which symbolises innocence. Bahuchara mata teaches us that killing of all animals and creatures is a sin and that there should be nonviolence. She carries a sword on her top right, a text of scriptures on her top left, She shows the abhay hasta mudra on her bottom right (showering of blessings) and carries a trident on her bottom left.

In one of the many folk stories associated with Bahuchara mata, the goddess was once a princess who castrated her husband because he preferred going to forest and 'behaving as a woman' instead of coming to her bridal bed. In another story, the man who attempted to molest Bahuchara mata was cursed with impotency. He was forgiven only after he gave up his masculinity, dressed as a woman and worshipped the goddess.

The temple of Bahuchara mata is located in Shankhalpoor (Gujarat - India). This holy place is today known as Bahucharaji.

Abhirami - Abhirami is the goddess of the full moon, Her legend is associated with Abhirama Bhattar and Abhirami Ammal. Abhirama Bhattar was an ardent devotee of the goddess and his favourite saying was that the mother is all powerful and can do everything. When the King heard this, he was incensed.

He told the poet if he could bring out the full moon on that very Amavasya night. When he heard this Abhirama Bhattar didn't know what to do - he prayed to his goddess to save him from his predicament. The devi, the kind mother, took out her nose ring, which sparkled so bright and tossed it into the sky. The brightness of the Goddess's ring was so much that everyone took it to be the full moon. Thus, the Goddess saved Her devotee.

Her Temple is located Thirkadayur (south India).

Annapoorna - Annapoorna is the mother of all materials and food, Once when lord Shiva told Parvati that, ''The world is an illusion - Nature is an illusion. Matter is a mirage, here one moment - gone the next. Even food is just maya.''

By hearing this Parvati lost her temper and said ''If I'm just an illusion, let's see how you and the rest of the world get along without me!'' saying this she dissapeared from the world.

The dissappearance caused havoc in the cosmos. Time stood still, seasons did not change, the earth became barren and there was a terrible draught. There was no food to be found anywhere in the three worlds. Gods, demons and humans suffered the pangs of hunger. They wept like children who seek their mothers. Sages cried, ''Salvation makes no sense to an empty stomach!" After a long period of time news reached Shiva that Parvati had reappeared at Kashi and had set up a Kitchen there for the benefit of the world. He ran there as fast as he could, along with every other hungry creature in the world. As he presented his bowl to her and said, ''Now I realise that the material world, like spirit, cannot be dissmissed as an illusion.''

Parvati smiled and fed Shiva with her own hands.Since then Parvati has come to be known as Annapoorna, the goddess of food. The image of her serving food to Shiva is still worshipped at Kashi and Vaaranasi in Uttar Pradesh (North India). She is also worshiped in Unja (Gujarat) where is is known as Umiya mata.

It is said that she does not eat a morsel unless her devotees have ben fed.

Explanations from Jai Mata Ji.

Nava Durga

Nava Durga

These are the nine (nava) main forms of the Goddess. She is well known by these forms in the Vedas. Each goddess symbolises a specific source of Energy.

1. Shailputri - She is the daughter of the Himalayas and first among nine Durgas. In previous birth she was the daughter of Daksha. Her name was Sati - Bhavani. I.e. the wife of Shiv. Once Daksha had organized a big Yagna and did not invite Shivaji. But Sati being obstinate, reached there. Thereupon Daksha insulted Shiva. Sati could not tolerate the insult of husband and burnt herself in the fire of Yagns. In other birth she became the daughter of Himalaya in the name of Parvati - Hemvati and got married with Shivaji. As per Upnishad she had torn and the egotism of Indra, etc. Devtas. Being ashamed they bowed and prayed that, "In fact, thou are Shakti, we all - Brahma, Vishnu and Shiv are capable by getting Shakti from you."

2. Brahmacharini - The second Durga Shakti is Brahamcharini. Brahma that is who observes panance and good conduct. Here "Brahma" means "Tapa". The idol of this Goddess is very gorgeous. There is rosary in her right hand and Kamandal in left hand. She is full with merriment. One story is famous about her. In previous birth she was Parvati Hemavati the daughter of Himvan. Once when she was busy in games with her friends. Naradaji came to her and predicted seeing her Palm-lines that, "You will get married with a naked-terrible 'Bhole baba' who was with you in the form of Sati, the daughter of Daksh in previous birth. But now you have to perform penance for him." There upon Parvati her mother Menaka that she would marry none except Shambhu, otherwise she would remain unmarried. Saying this she went to observe penance (tap). That is why her name is famous as tapacharini - Brahmacharini. But as she was engrossed in Tapa her mother told her, " Beti, please do not make penance." From that time her name Uma became familiar.

3. Chandraghanta - The third Shakti is Chandraghanta. There is a half-circular moon in her forehead. She is charmful and bright. She is Golden colour. She has three eyes and ten hands holding with ten types of swords - etc. weapons and arrows etc. missiles. She is seated on Lion and ready for going in war to fight. She is unprecedented image of bravery. The frightful sound of her bell terrifies all the villans, demons and denavas.

4. Kushmanda - The fourth Durga is Kushmanda. The Shakti creates egg. I.e. Universe by mere laughing she resides in solar systems. She shines brightly in all the ten directions as like Sun. She has eight hands. Seven types of weapons are shining in her seven hands. Rosary is in her right hand. She seems brilliant riding on Lion. She likes the offerings of "Kumhde." Therefore her name "Kushmanda" has become famous.

5. Skanda Mata - The Fifth name of Durga is "Skanda Mata". The daughter of Himalaya, after observing penance got married with Shiva. She had a son named "Skanda." Skanda is a leader of the army of Gods. Skanda Mata is a deity of fire. Skanda is seated in her lap. She has three eyes and four hands. She is white and seated on a lotus.

6. Katyayani -The Sixth Durga is Katyayani. The son of "Kat" as "Katya". Rishi Katyayan born in this "Katya" linege. Katyayan had observed penance with a desire to get paramba as his daughter. As a result she took birth as a daughter of Katyayan. Therefore her name is "Katyayani" on the bank of Jamuna for getting Krishna as a husband. It proves that she is prime deity of Vraj mandal. Her appearance is very sublime. She has three eyes and eight hands. These are eight types of weapons missiles in her seven hands. Her vehicle is Lion.

7. Kalratri - The Seventh Durga is Kalratri. She is black like night. H hairs are unlocked. She has put on neckles shining like lightning. She has three eyes which are round like universe. Her eyes are bright. Thousands of flames of fire come out while respiring with nose. She rides on donkey. There is sharp sword in her right hand. Her lower hand is in blessing mood. The burning torch is in her left hand and her lower left hand is in fearless style, by which she makes her devotees fearless. Being auspicious she is called "Shubhamkari."

8. Maha Gauri - The Eighth Durga is "Maha Gauri." She is as white as a conch, moon and Jasmine. She is of eight years old. Her clothes and ornaments are white and clean. She has three eyes. She rides on bull She has four hands. The above left hand is in "Fearless - Mudra" and lower left hand holds "Trishul." The above right hand has tambourine and lower right hand is in blessing style. She is calm and peaceful and exists in peaceful style. It is said that when the body of Gauri became dirty due to dust and earth while observing penance, Shivaji makes it clean with the waters of Gangas. Then her body became bright like lightning. There fore, she is known as "Maha Gauri" in world.

9. Siddhidatri - The Ninth Durga us Siddhidatri. There are eight Siddhis - Viz- Anima, Mahima, Garima, Laghima, Prapti, Prakamya, Iishitva Vashitva. Maha Shakti gives all these Siddhies. It is said in "Devipuran" that the Supreme God Shiv got all these Siddhies by worshipping Maha Shakti. With her gratitude the half body of Shiv has became of Goddess and there fore his name "Ardhanarishvar" has became famous. The Goddess drives on Lion. She has four hands and looks pleased. This form of Durga is worshipped by all Gods, Rishis-Munis, Siddhas, Yogis, Sadhakas and devotees for attaining the best religious asset.

Explanations from Jai Mata Ji.

About Mataji

MATAJI

‘ Her mysterical and miraculous actions are anonymous and anomolous to understand and unpredictable.Even today in Kali yuga ( new age ) whenever there will be evil and difficult times on earth she will come to rescue her devotees in any form.’


Ya devi sarva bhoothe shu
shakti roopena sansthita
namastasyaye namastasyaye namastasyaye namo namaha!

Mataji ( The great Mother Goddess ) is the source of power though eternal and extreme, unborn and absolute; yet she has appeared in many forms and figures as she has taken incarnations many times to help the world in difficult conditions.

It is believed that she was there even before the creation of the universe and she is omnipresent and omnipotent!

Nothing in the whole universe is impossible nor anything would exist without Mataji ( shakti ). Shakti is the energy that exists within all living humanbeings, animals, creatures and plants.Not even a leaf could move without the permission of Mataji.

It is her that keeps universe going, the earth going round the sun, The sun spearding raidiance and the moon spearding light, the wind serving breeze, the clouds showering rain to trees which give cool shelter and every drop of blood that circulates in our body is due to the force of Mataji.

'The Mother is found everywhere, and in all living beings. The true form of the Divine Mother is Creative Energy, Shakti, which is understood in different ways in different countries and times, but in reality, there is no difference, it is one Creative Power. There is nothing beyond Shakti in this world of action. Every action in the world is accomplished through Shaktii!'

She symbolises the feminine power, When there was chaos in the cosmos she took various forms such as Durga and Kali to Kill the demons and defeat the evil and to save the living beings. Even the Gods of the trinity ( Bramma, Vishnu and Shiva) went to her at difficult situations.

'Her mysterical and miraculous actions are anonymous and anomolous to understand and unpredictable.Even today in Kali yuga ( new age ) whenever there will be evil and difficult times on the Earth she will come to rescue her devotees in any form.’

Not normal people like us but great rushis and munis (sages) have said this!

We do not know exactly how Mataji looked like but the rushis and munis (sages) which existed during the period such as Markandeya and Sootji witnessed her in her female forms and narrated the 'Markandeya Puran' in which there are some detailed descritions of how Mataji must have looked like. From this artists have come up with many many imppressions and created many masterpieces of art Even by looking at her beautifully carved sculptures one cannot predict her beauty.Her sculptures and idols installed in thousands of temples in India and worldwide where thousands of devotees flock to seek her blessings.

She plays in the souls and bodies of Bhuvas ( one who becomes possesed by Mataji ) and the hearts of devotees, she looks upon who ever believes in her with love and faith and worships her with the mind body and soul, she talks to those who speak to her, she comes closer to those who call out to her, she appears in front of those who meditate upon her, she installs herself where ever her hyms ( bhajans and garbas ) are sung. It is up to us to realise. This can only be obtained when one is free from Kama (love), Krodh (anger), Lobh (proudness) and Moha (lust) and who surrenders their life to Mataji.

She is in us - her shakti (energy) is which makes our 5 senses work, therefore one should see her in all living beings and help every living being to seek her blessings.

It is belived that Mataji came on earth in a female form as Sati (consort of Shiva). When her father Daksha insulted lord Shiva, Sati was so upset that she could not bear it, and with her force and energy she burned her body into flames. When lord Shiva was carriying her burning corpse away from the earth, some parts of the Sati's fire fell onto the earth. Wherever that fire fell, there came up a Shakti peeth (pilligramage point). Even today, Mataji is performing many miracles. Wherever Mataji has performed a miracle, that place has become a holy pilligramage spot.

Thus Mataji is the supreme and immortal Shakti (everlasting power) which was there even before the creation, is still omnipresent today and will always exist even after the destruction of the universe.

Explanations from Jai Mata Ji.

Shri Durga Chalisa

Shri Durga Chalisa

(1) namo namo durge sukha karani
namo namo ambe duhkha harani

I bow, I bow, to the Reliever of Difficulties, Cause of Happiness.
I bow, I bow, to the Mother who takes away all pain [1]


(2) nirankara hai jyoti tumhari
tihu loka phaili ujiyari

Your light illuminates all darkness,
your brightness extends over the three worlds [2]


(3) sasi lalata mukha mahabisala
netra lala bhrkuti vikarala.

With the moon on your forehead your face is tremendous.
When you frown with red eyes it is terribly frightening. [3]

(4) rupa matu kau adhika suhavai
darasa karata jana ati sukha pava

In the form of Mother it is extremely pleasing,
and those who see you in this way receive the greatest pleasure. [4]

(5) tuma sansara sakti laya kina
palana hetu anna dhana dina

You move all the energy amongst all objects and relationships.
You protect all, and are the Giver of grains and wealth. [5]

(6) annapurna hu-i jaga pala
tuma hi adi sundari bala

As the Goddess who is full of grains and food you protect the world.
You the are foremost and most beautiful being. [6]

(7) pralayakala saba nasana hari
tuma gauri siva sankara pyari

At the time of total dissolution you destroy all. You are the Goddess
who is Rays of Light, beloved of Siva, Sankar, the Cause of peace. [7]

(8) siva jogi tumhare guna gavai
brahma-visnu tumhen nita dhyavai

Siva and all yogis sing of your qualities.
Brahma and Visnu always meditate on you. [8]

(9) rupa sarasvati ko tuma dharyo
de subuddhi rsi munina ubaryo

You wear the form of Sarasvati, Goddess of Knowledge.
You give excellent knowledge which liberates the rishis and munis. [9]

(10) dharyo rupa narasimha ko amba
pragata bha-i phaRa ke khamba.

You gave the form for Narasingha to wear, Mother,
which manifested with the crumbling of the pillar [10]

(11) raksa kari prahalada bacayau
hiranakusa ko svarga pathayau

Oh Protector, you saved Prahalad,
and sent Hiranyakiasipu to heaven.[11]

(12) laksmi rupa dharo jaga mahi
sri narayana anga samahi

You wear the form of Laksmi, Oh Mother of the Universe,
which is regarded the same as the body of the Respected Narayana. [12]

(13) ksirasindhu me karata vilasa
daya sindhu dijai mana asa

You are delighted in the ocean of milk.
Oh Ocean of Compassion, please grant the mind's wish. [13]

(14) hingalaja men tumahi bhavani
mahima amita na jata bakhani

In the Hingulaj you are Bhavani, the Mother of Existence.
No one who is born can describe your greatness.[14]

(15) matangi dhhmavati mata
bhuvanesvan bagala sukhadata

You are Matangi and Mother Dhumavati.
As Bhuvanesvari and Bamgala you can grant comfort and happiness. [15]

(16) sri bhairavi tara jaga tarani
chinna bhala bhava duhkha nivarani

As the respected fearful Bhairavi you deliver all the worlds.
As Chinnamasta you prohibit pain in all the worlds.[l6]

(17) kehari vahana soha bhavani
langur bira calata agavani

The excellent among the monkeys went to welcome you,
Oh Bhavani, you who ride upon the lion.[l7]

(18) kara me khappara khanga virajai
jako dekha kala dara bhajai

In your hands are the sword and a beggar's bowl.
The Seer experiences the fear of Time, the Great Destroyer. [18]

(19) sohal kara me astra trisula
jate uthata satru hiya sula

Then in Mother's hand is seen the trident by which
She abolishes the enemy' s spear. [19]

(20) naga koti me tumhi birajata
tihu loka me danka bajata

In Nagarkot you are known as Viraja,
and the people of the three worlds beat on drums to celebrate you. [20]

(21) sumbha nisumbha danava tuma mare
raktabija sankhana samhare

You slayed the demons Self-Conceit and Self-Deprecation.
You dissolved the innumerable Seeds of Desire. [21]

(22) mahisasur nrpa ati abhimani
jehi agha ra mahi akulani

The King Great Ego was extremely proud.
The burden of his guilt for sins brought down low. [22]

(23) rupa karala kali ko dhara
sena sahita tuma tihi samhara

As Kali you wear an immense form.
You destroyed the entire army in battle. [23]

(24) pari bhira santana para jaba jaba
bha-i sahaya matu tuma taba taba

Whenever your children are burdened with perplexity,
then and there you manifest, Oh Mother, to render assistance. [24]

(25) amarapuri aru vasaba loka
tava mahima saba kahai asoka

Again and again you lead people to dwell in immortality.
Then all elucidate your greatness with great joy and tranquility [25]

(26) jvala me hai jtoti tumhari
tmhe sada jujai nana-nari

In all the inhabitants your light is burning.
Men and women always perform your worship. [26]

(27) prema bhakti se jo jasa gavai
duhkha daridra nikata nahi avai

Whoever will sing this praise with love and devotion,
pain and discomfort will not come close to them. [27]

(28) dhyaven tumhai jo nara mana la-i
janma-marana so chuti ja-i

Whoever will meditate on you with full concentration,
will escape from the cycle of birth and death. [28]

(29) jogi sura-muni kahata pukari
yoga na ho-i bina sakti tumhari

The yogis, Gods, and munis all call out,
"Without your energy union is impossible!" [29]

(30) sankara acaraja tapa kino
kama, krodha jiti saba lino

Siva Sankar performed a most wondrous tapasya
by which He defeated Anger and Passion. [30]

(31) nisidina dhyana dharo sankara ko
kahu kala nahl sumirau tumako

Even though one meditates upon Siva every day,
he can never reach to the heights of your attainment. [31]

(32) sakti rupa ko marama na payau
sakti ga-i taba mana pachitayau

The form of energy is never destroyed.
Who sings in praise of Energy, his mind will endure. [32]

(33) saranagata hu-i kirti bakhani
jaya jaya jaya jagadamba bhavani

Who takes refuge in you, fame will increase. Victory, victory, victory
to the Divine Mother of the Universe, Mother of Existence! [33]

(34) bhai prasanna adi jagadamba
da-I sakti nahi kina bilamba

Please be pleased, Oh Mother of the Universe.
give me energy without further delay. [34]

(35) moko matu kasta ati ghero
tuma bina kauna hare duhkha mero

Oh Mother, I am surrounded by difficulties.
Other than you, who can take away my pain? [35]

(36) asa trsna nipata satavai
ripu murakha mohi ati dara pavai

Wishes and desires are extremely tormenting.
The ignorance caused by foolish limitations is extremely fearful. [36]

(37) satru nasa hije maharani
sumiro ikacitta tumhe bhavani

Oh Great Queen, please destroy all enemies. Let me recollect
One Consciousness, and let that be You, Oh Mother of Existence. [37]

(38) krpa karo he matu dayala
rddhi siddhi dai karahu nihala

Give me your Grace, Oh Compassionate Mother.
Give increase to perfection causing Supreme Happiness. [38]

(39) jaba lagi ji-u dayaphala [a-u
tumharau jasa mai sada suna-u

When the fruit of Compassion touch my heart,
I only want to always sing you praises. [39]

(40) durga calisa jo ko-i gavai
saba sukha bhoga parama pada pavai

Whoever sings this Durga Calisa, Praise of the Divine Mother,
will enjoy the highest happiness and attain the most exalted respect. [40]

(41) devidasa sarana nija jani
karahu krpa jagadamba bhavani

Where will I find my own refuge? Please give me your Grace,
Oh Mother of the Universe, Mother of Existence. [41]

Devi Kshama

Devi Kshama

na mantram no yantram tadapi ca na jane stutimaho
na cahvanam dhyanam tadapi ca na jane stutikathah
na jane mudraste tadapi ca na jane vilapanam
param jane matastva danusaranam klesaharanam

Neither do I know chants nor do I know methods, nor do I know how to make prayer. I don't know how to invoke you nor how to meditate, I have no knowledge of any songs. I don't know any signs (mudras) and I don't know the method of imploring deep pleading. But I know one thing for sure, if I follow you (within the folds of your love) I will be released from all my troubles.

vidher-ajnanena dravina-virahenalasataya
vidheya sakyatvat-tava caranayor-ya cyutir-abhut
tad-etat ksantavyam janani sakaloddharini sive
kuputro jayeta kvacidapi kumata na bhavati.

O, Kind Mother (the Liberator of all without discrimination), I don't know the method of doing puja and I am also lazy by nature. I also do not have the capacity to do the right kind of prayer, With all these shortcomings, if there have been any mistakes, please overlook them. Because a son can be bad, however, it is not in the Mother's nature to be bad.

prthivyam putraste janani bahavah santi saralah
param tesam madhye viralataralo ham tava sutah
madiyo yam tyagah samucitamidam no tava sive
kuputro jayeta kvacidapi kumata na bhavati.

O, Mother, on this earth you have many good sons and daughters but out of all these I am the most bad child of yours 0, Goddess, you have forsaken me because I have not concentrated on you, this is not reasonable, Because a son can be bad, however, it is not in the Mother's nature to be bad.

jaganmatarmatastava caranaseva na racita
na va dattam devi dravinamapi bhuyastava maya
tathapi tvam sneham mayi nirupamam yatprakuruse
kuputro jayeta kvachidapi kumata na bhavati

O, Mother of the Universe, I have never rubbed your feet or done any sort of service, I have not given you wealth, but even strangely enough, you are bestowing your grace on undeserving me Because a son can be bad, however, it is not in the Mother's nature to be bad.

parityakta deva vividha-vidha-seva kulataya
maya pancagiter-adhikam-apanite tu vayasi
idanim cen-matas-tava yadi krpa napi bhavita
niralambo lambodara-janani kam yami saranam.

O, Paravati Ma, Mother who has given birth to Ganesh, while I do prayers to other gods, I remain busy with different kinds of works, all gods have left me because I 'm eighty-five years, and I can not give them all the prayers. I am despaired and I can not expect any help from them. If you also leave me at this time where shall I go for support except to you?

svapako jalpako bhavati madhu-pakopama-gira
niratanko ranko viharati ciram koti-kanakaih.
tavaparne karne visati manuvarne phalam-idam
janah ko janite janani japaniyam japa-vidhau

O, Mother! If anybody hears even a word of your chant, the result is--even the meanest man can utter the sweet pronunciation of this chant like honey and he becomes a very proficient speaker, The poorest man, you will find suitable work for him (The poorest man enjoys millions of pieces gold ) When even a word of your chant has such a result, the ones who are doing it regularly and methodically, we can not fathom what the result will be, and who is that mortal who can know it?

cita-bhasmalepo garalam-asanam dik-pata-dharo
jata-dhan kanthe bhujaga-pati-hanr pasupatih
kapall bhutego bhajati jagadlrgaika-padavim
bhavani tvatpani grahana-paripati-phalam-idam

O, Goddess, Bhavani, the Adi-Goddess, the one who rubs his body with ashes and whose fool is poison, and the one whose body is nude, and has matted hair and a necklace of cobras and a hung skull in his hands as an alms bowl, gets that name of Jagadeesh (the Lord of the World) what is the reason for this? How did he get such an immanent position? It is only because of the union with you, and by this his importance has increased

na mokshas-yakanksa bhava-vibhava-vanchapi ca na me
na vijnana-peksa sasimukhi sukhecchapi na punah
atastvam samyace janani jananam yatu mama vai
mrdani rudrani siva siva bhavaniti japatah

O, the Mother whose countenance is like the moon! I do not have any desire for deliverance (moksha), I do not have any desire for worldly wealth. I do not have any craving for knowledge. I also do not want happiness. . . so I have this prayer that the rest of my life may pass in uttering all the names of the Goddess.

naradhitasi vidhina vividhopacaraih
kim ruksa cintana-parair-na krtam vacobhih
syame tvameva yadi kincana mayyanathe
dhatse krpam-ucitam-amba param tavaiva

O, Mother! Shayam, (the blue-bodied one), I could not do methodically your puja or prayer with various religious articles (demeaning oneself before the Godgess). Always my meditation was not crystal clear because it had the hurdness. What fault did I have with all these shortcomings? You bestow on me the greatest grace which is only deserving of you. such a merciful mother can give shelter to such an undeserving son.

Doha:
apatsu magnah smaranam tvadiyam, karomi durge karunarnavesi. naitacchathatvam mama bhavayethah, ksudhatrsarta jananim smaranti.

O, Mother! Durga! The ocean of mercy! I am remembering you because I have got all around me the difficulties. I did not pray before this. Kindly don't consider this prayer of mine as my wickedness, because the child who is suffering from hunger and thirst, only remembers the Mother.

jagadamba vicitram atra kim, paripurna karunasti cenmayi
aparadha-parampara-param na hi, mata samupeksate sutam

O, Mother of the universe. I am not surprised, because of your complete grace. A son may do fault after fault, but the mother never ignores him.

matsamah pataki nasti papaghni tvatsama na hi
evam jnatva mahadevi yatha-yogyam tatha kuru

O, Mahadevi, Great Goddess, there is no sinner like me on the earth and there is no other person condoning the sins except you. Knowing all this, you do whatever you think is reasonable.

Devi Suktam

Devisooktam

Namo devyai mahadevyai shivayai satatam namaha,
Namaha prakrityai bhadrayai niyataah pranataah sma taam. [1]

Roudrayai namo nityayi gouryayai dhatrayai namo namaha,
Jyothsnayayai chendurupinyayai sukhayayai satatam namaha. [2]

Kalyannyai pranatam vridhyayai sidhyayai kurmo namo namah,
Nairutyayai bhybritaam lakshmyai sharvanyayai tey namo namah. [3]

Durgayai durgapaaraayai, saaraayai sarvakaarine,
Khyatyai tadhiva krishnayai dhumrayai satatam namaha. [4]

Ati soumyati roudrayai, nataastastastyai namo namaha,
Namo jagatpratishtayai, devyayai krityayai namo namah. [5]

Ya devi sarvabhuteshu, Vishnu mayeti shabdita,
Namastastyai Namastastyai Namastastyai namo namaha. [6]

Ya devi sarvabhuteshu, Chetanetyabhidhiyate,
Namastastyai Namastastyai Namastastyai namo namaha. [7]

Ya devi sarvabhuteshu, Buddhirupenasamsthita,
Namastastyai Namastastyai Namastastyai namo namaha. [8]

Ya devi sarvabhuteshu, Nidrarupenasamsthita,
Namastastyai Namastastyai Namastastyai namo namaha. [9]

Ya devi sarvabhuteshu, Kshudhaarupenasamsthita,
Namastastyai Namastastyai Namastastyai namo namaha. [10]

Ya devi sarvabhuteshu, Chhayarupenasamsthita,
Namastastyai Namastastyai Namastastyai namo namaha. [11]

Ya devi sarvabhuteshu, Shaktirupenasamsthita,
Namastastyai Namastastyai Namastastyai namo namaha. [12]

Ya devi sarvabhuteshu, Trushnarupenasamsthita,
Namastastyai Namastastyai Namastastyai namo namaha. [13]

Ya devi sarvabhuteshu, Kshaantirupenasamsthita,
Namastastyai Namastastyai Namastastyai namo namaha. [14]

Ya devi sarvabhuteshu, Jaatirupenasamsthita,
Namastastyai Namastastyai Namastastyai namo namaha. [15]

Ya devi sarvabhuteshu, Lajjaarupenasamstitha,
Namastastyai Namastastyai Namastastyai namo namaha. [16]

Ya devi sarvabhuteshu, Shantirupenasamstitha,
Namastastyai Namastastyai Namastastyai namo namaha. [17]

Ya devi sarvabhuteshu, Shraddharupenasamsthita,
Namastastyai Namastastyai Namastastyai namo namaha. [18]

Ya devi sarvabhuteshu, Kantirupenasamsthita,
Namastastyai Namastastyai Namastastyai namo namaha. [19]

Ya devi sarvabhuteshu, Lakshmirupenasamsthita,
Namastastyai Namastastyai Namastastyai namo namaha. [20]

Ya devi sarvabhuteshu, Vrittirupenasamsthita,
Namastastyai Namastastyai Namastastyai namo namaha. [21]

Ya devi sarvabhuteshu, Smrutirupenasamsthita,
Namastastyai Namastastyai Namastastyai namo namaha. [22]

Ya devi sarvabhuteshu, Dayarupenasamsthita,
Namastastyai Namastastyai Namastastyai namo namaha. [23]

Ya devi sarvabhuteshu, Tushtirupenasamsthita,
Namastastyai Namastastyai Namastastyai namo namaha. [24]

Ya devi sarvabhuteshu, Matrurupenasamsthita,
Namastastyai Namastastyai Namastastyai namo namaha. [25]

Ya devi sarvabhuteshu, Bhrantirupenasamsthita,
Namastastyai Namastastyai Namastastyai namo namaha. [26]

Indiyanaa madhishtatree, bhootaanaamchaakhileshuyaa,
Bhuteshu satatam satyai, vypyai devyai namo namah. [27]

Chitirupena yakrithsna, meta dwapyasthitajagat,
Namastastyai Namastastyai Namastastyai namo namaha. [28]

Om stutaa suraih poorva mabhishta samshrayat
Tadhasurendrena dineshu sevita
Karotu saanaha shubhahetu iswari
Shubhani bhdranyabhihantu chaapadaha
Om yaa saapratam choddatadaityataapitai
Asmbhi reeshacha suraih namasyate
Yaa cha smruta tatkshan meva hantinaha
Sarvapado bhaktivinamra murtibhih


This prayer is from AstroJyoti.com.

Durga Suktam

Durga Suktam

The Durga sooktam in praise of Devi is one of the traditionally recited pancha sooktas of the Vedic tradition.

Om Jatavedase sunavama somamaratiyato nidahati vedah
Sa nah parshhadati durgani vishva naveva sindhum duritatyagnih [1]

Tamagnivarnam tapasa jvalantim vairochanim karmaphaleshhu jushhtamh
Durgam devii sharanamaham prapadye sutarasi tarase namah [2]

Agne tvam paaraya navyo asmaansvastibhiriti durgani vishva
Pushcha prithvi bahula na urvi bhava tokaya tanayaya shamyoh [3]

Vishvani no durgaha jatavedassindhunna nava duritatiparshhi
Agne atrivanmanasa grinanoasmakam bodhayitva tanunamh [4]

Pritanajitam sahamanamugramagni huvema paramatsadhasthath
Sa nah parshhadati durgani vishvakshamaddevo atiduritatyagnih [5]

Pratnoshhikamidyo adhvareshhu sannachcha hota navyashcha satsi
Svanchagne tanuvam piprayasvasmabhyam cha saubhagamayajasva [6]

Gobhirjushhtamayujonishhiktan tavendra vishhnoranusamcharema
Nakasya prishhthamabhisamvasano vaishhnavim loka iha madayantamh [7]

Om kaatyaayanaaya vidmahe Kanyakumaari dhiimahi Tanno durgih prachodayaath

Om shaantih shaantih shaantih


This prayer is from AstroJyoti.com.

Shri Suktam

Shri Suktam

Srisooktam in praise of Goddess Lakshmi is one of the pancha sooktas of the Vedic tradition.

Hiraņya varnám hariņīm suvarna-rajata-srajám
Chandrám hiranmayīm lakshmīm jatavedo ma avaha|(1)

Tám ma ávaha játavedo lakśhmīm anapa gáminīm
Yasyám hiraņyam vindeyam gám aśvam puruśhán aham|| (2)

Aśhwa-pūrvám ratha-madhyám hasti náda prabódhiním
Śhriyam devím upahvaye śhrír ma devír jushatám| (3)

Kám sósmitám hiranya prákárám árdrám jvalantím triptám tarpayantím
Padme sthitám padma-varnám támihópahvaye śhriyam|| (4)

Chandrám prabhásám yaśhasá jvalantím śhriyam lóke deva justám udárám
Tám padminim-ím saranam aham prapadye' alakshmír me naśyatám tvám vrne| (5)

Ǎditya varne tapasó dhijátó vanaspatis tava vrikshó' tha bilvah
Tasya phalani tapsá nudantu mayántaráyás cha báhya alakshmíh|| (6)

Upaitu mám deva-sakah kírtis cha maniná saha
Prádūr bhūtó' smi rashtre' smin kírtim riddhim dadátu me| (7)

Kshut pipásá-amalám jyesthám alakshmím náshayámy aham
Abhūtim asamriddhim cha sarván nirnuda me grihat|| (8)

Gandha dvárám durá dharşhám nitya-pushtám karíshiním
Iśhvarígm sarva bhūtánám tám ihó pahvaye śhriyam| (9)

Manasah kámam ákūtím vácah satyam ashímahi
Paśhūnágm rūpam annasya mayi śríh shrayatám yaśhah|| (10)

Kardamená praja-bhūtá mayi sambhava kardama
Śriyam vásaya me kule mátaram padma-máliním| (11)

Ǎpah srijantu snigdháni chiklíta vasa me grihe
Nicha devím mátaram śhriyam vásaya me kule|| (12)

Ardám pushkariním pushtim pingalám padma máliním
Chandrám hiran-mayím lakshmím játavedó ma ávaha| (13)

Ǎrdhám yah kariním yashtim suvarnám hema-máliním
Sūryám hiran-mayím lakshmím játavedó ma ávaha|| (14)

Tám ma ávaha játevedó lakshmím anapa gáminím yasyám
Hiranyam prabhūtam gávó dásyó aśván vindeyam purushan aham|| (15)

Ǒm mahá-devyai cha vidmahe, vishnu-patnaiya cha dhímahi
Tanno Lakshmíh prachódayát || (16)

Ǒm Shántih, Shántih, Shántih.


This prayer is from AstroJyoti.com.

Mataji Prathna

Mataji Prathna


CHANTING OF MANTRAS AND ARTI


The various mantras chanted during Aarti are given hereunder. Only general explanations of the mantras have been attempted. At the commencement of the Aarti the Pujaris speak aloud the 108 names of the Goddess, which are as under:

1. OMSATI
2. SAADHAVI
3. BHAV PREETA
4. BHAWAANI
5. BHAVMOCHANI
6. AARYAA
7. DURGAA
8. JAYAA
9. AADYAA
10. TRINETRAA
11. SHOOLDHARINI
12. PINAAK DHARINI
13. CHITRAA
14. CHANDRA GHANTAA
15. MAHAATAPA
16. MAN
17. BUDDHI
18. AHANKAARA
19. CHITTAROOPAA
20. CHITTAA
21. CHITTI
22. SARVAMANTRAMAVI
23. SATTAA
24. SATANANDASWAROOPINI
25. ANANTA
26. BHAAVINI
27. BHAAVYA
28. BHAVYA
29. ABHAVYA
30. SADAGATI
31. SHAAMBHAVI
32. DEVMAATA
33. CHINTAA
34. RATNA PRIYAA
35. SARVVIDYAA
36. DAKSHA KANYAA
37. DAKSHA YAGYA INAASHINI
38. APARNAA
39. ANEK VARNAA
40. PAAATLAA
41. PAATLAAVATI
42.PATTAAMBAR PARIDHAANA
43. KALMANJINI
44. AMEVA VIKRAMA
45. KROORAA
46. SUNDARI
47. SARSUNDARI
48. VAN DURGA
49. MAATANGI

50. MATANGMUNI PUJITA
51. BRAAHMI
52. MAAHESHWARI
53. EIDREE
54. KAUMAARI
55. VAISHNAVI
56. CHAAMUNDAA
57. VAARAAHI
58. LAKSHMI
59. PURUSHA KRITI
60. VIMLA
61. UTKARSHINI
62. GYAANAA
63. KRIYAA
64. NITYAA
65. BHDDHIDDA
66. BAHULAA
67. BAHUL PREMA
68. SARVA VAAHAN VAAHANAA
69. NISHUMBHASHUMBHAHANINI
70. MAHISHASUR MARDINI
71. MADHU KAITABH HANTARI
72. CHANDA MUNDAVINAASHINI
73. SARVA ASUR VINAASHAA
74. SARVADAANAVGHAATINI
75. SARVA SHAASTRAMAVI
76. SATYA
77. ANEK SHASTRA HASTAA
78.ANEKAASTRAA DHAARINI
79. KUMARI
80. EK KANYA
81. KAISHORI
82. YUVATI
83. YATI
84. APRAUDHA
85. PRAUDAH
86. VRIDDHMAATA
87. BALPRADAA
88. MAHODARI
89. MUKTAKESHI
90. GHOR RUPAA
91. MAHAABALAA
92. AGNI JWALAA
93. RAUDRAMUKHI
94. KAAL RATRI
95. TAPASVINI
96. NAARAYANI
97. BHANDRAKAALI
98. VISHNU MAAYA
99. JALOORI
100. SHIV DOOTI
101. KARAALI
102. ANANTAA
103. PARMESHWARI
104. KAATYAAYANI
105. SAAVITRI
106. PRATYAKSHAA
107. BRAHM VAADINI
108. SARVA SHAASTRAMAYI



They then perform ‘Atma Puja’ for self-purification. This is done by the chanting of the following mantras:

OM APAVITRAH PAVITRO VA
SARVAVASTHAM GATOAPI VA,

YAH SMRAIT PUNDARIKA AKSHAM SA VAHY
ABHYANTARAH SHUCHIH.

Explanation: Whoever contemplates upon Vishnu gets automatically purified, both mentally and physically.


This is followed by ‘Achman’ (drinking of holy water after accepting it in the palm of the hand), which helps to wash off the sins committed by action, thought and speech. The mantra runs as follows:

OM KESHAVAYA NAMAH, OM NARAYANAYA NAMAH, OM MADHAVAYA NAMAH, OM GOVINDAYA NAMAH.

Explanation: I bow to thee Keshav, I bow to thee Narayan, I bow to thee Madhav, I bow to thee Govind.


This is followed by the chanting of the following mantra to welcome Lakshmi and applying Tilak (or an auspicious mark) on the forehead of the Pujaris.

OM GANDHA DWARAAM DURAA DHARSHAAM NITYAPUSHTAAM KARISHINIM,
ISHWARIM SARVA BHOOTAANAAM TAAMIHOPAHAV YAI SHRIYAM.

Explanation: Lakshmi, the omnipotent giver of prosperity, I respectfully welcome you to my home.


In the next mantra, the Pujaris pray to the Goddess for granting them sound and robust health by chanting the following mantras:

OM, AIN, HRIDAYAAY NAMAH,

OM VAG MAI AASYAI ASTU,

OM NASOR MAI PRANO ASTU,

OM AKSHANOR MAI CHAKSHUR ASTU,

OM KARNAYOR MAI SHROTRAM ASTU,

OM BAHYOR MAI BALAM ASTU,
OM OORVOR MAI OJO ASTU,
OM ARISHTANI MAI ANGANI,

TANU STANVA MAI SAHASANTU

Explanation: Oh Mother, keep my heart, speech, breathing, sight, hearing, strength and energy intact and disease free.


After this the earth is worshipped by chanting the following mantras:

OM PRITHVI ITI MANTRASYA MERUPRISHTA RISHIHI SUTALAM, CHANDAH, KOORMO DEVTAA, AASAN SHODHANAYA VINIYOGAH. OM PRITHVI TVAYAA DHRITAA LOKAA DEVI TVAM VISHNUNA DHRITAA, TVAM CHA DHAARAY MAAM DEVI PAVITRAM KURU CHA AASANAM.

Explanation: In These mantras the earth is worshipped in order to purify the place for sitting. Oh Mother earth, just as you hold the earth and Vishnu holds you. I beseech you to hold me and accept this seat that I am offering you.


Thereafter an Argha (water containing a mixture of milk, rice, grass etc.) is offered to Surya Devta (Sun God) with the chanting the following mantras:

OM EHI SURYA SAHASRAANSHO TEJO RAASHAY JAGAT PATAY, ANUKAMPAYA MAAM BHAKTYA GRIHANAARGHYA DIVAKAR.

Explanation: Oh Sun, master of the brilliant effulgence, please accept this Argha that I am offering with complete devotion.


This is followed by Deep Pujan (worship of the flame of the lamp) and Dhoop Pujan (worship of incense) which are performed by the chanting the following mantras:

OM SUPRAKAASH MAHAADEEP SARVATRA TAMIRAPAH, PRASID MAM GOVIND DEEPO ARGHAYAH PRATIGRIHYATAAM.

Explanation: Oh, the remover of darkness, please accept my Argha.

OM VANASPATI RASOD BHOOT GANDHAADYA GANDHUTTAMAH, AARGHEYA SARVADEVAANAAM DHOOPOAYAM PRATIGRIHYA TAAM.

Explanation: Please accept this essence of flora, which has such divine smell.
This is followed by the ‘Pratigya Sankalp’ (to resolve to fulfil a vow), which runs as follows:

OM VISHNUR VISHNUR VISHNU,

OM TATSADYA BRAHMANOAHINI,

DWITIYA PRARDHE, VISHNU PADA,
SHRI SHWET VARAAH KALPE,

VAIVASVAT MANVANTAREY ASHTAAVINSHATI,
TAMEY YUGEY KALIYUGEY,

KALI PRATHAM CHARNEY,
BHURLOKEY JAMBUDWEEPEY
BHARATVARSHEY BHARATKHANDEY

AARYAR VARTAK DESHEY,

VIKRAM SHAKEY BAUDHAAVTAAREY,
AMUK NAAM SAMVATSAREY,

SHRI SURYEY AMUKAAYNEY,

AMUK MAASEY, AMUK PAKSHEY,

AMUK TITHAU, AMUK VAASREY,
AMUK GOTROTPANNAH,
AMUK SHARMA AHAM, SHRUTI,
SMRITI PURAANOKTA PHAL PRAAPTEY,
SHRI MAATAA VAISHNAVI DEVI
SIDDHAPEETHEY VISHVAKALYAN KETAVEY,
SHRI MAATAA MAHAA KAALI
MAHAA LAKSHMI MAHAA SARASWATI
SHRI MAATAA VAISHNAVI DEVI,

PRATAH (SAAYAN) KAALEEN
SHODASHOPCHAAREN
POOJA AHAM KARISHYEY.
TATRAADAU NIRVIGHANTAA SIDHYARTHAM GANAPATI PUJA NAM CHA KARISHEY.

Explanation: In this mantra the Pujari takes a vow that he shall worship Mata Mahakali, Maha Lakshmi and Maha Saraswati who are manifested in petrified rock form in the holy Shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi Ji for the welfare of the world. He also vows that he shall worship Ganapati (Ganesh) also.


Once the “Pratigya Sankalp” is over, the Shringaar of the Goddess is removed and the ablutions are performed. While the Goddess is being bathed, mantras for ‘Kalyan’ (well being) are chanted. These are known as SVASTI VAACHAN and are as follows:

HARI OM SVASTI NA INDRO VRIDDHA SHRAVAAH,
SVASTI NA POOSHAAH VISHVA VEDAAH,

SVASTI NA ANTARIKSHYO ARISHTA NEMI,

SVASTI NO BRIHASPATIR DADHAATU,
PAYAH PRITHVIYAAM, PAYAH AUSHADHISHU,
PAYO DIVYA ANTARIKSHAY,
PAYODHAAH PAYA SVATIH PRADISHAH SANTU MAHAYAM.
VISHNOR RAATAM ASI,
VISHNOH SHNAPATRESTHO,
VISHNO SYOO RA SI,
VISHNO DHRUVO ASI VAISHNAVAM ASI VISHNA VETVAA.
AGNIRDEVATAA VAATO DEVTAA
SURYO DEVATAA CHANDRAMAA DEVATAA
VASVO DEVATAA RUDRA DEVATAA,
AADITYA DEVATAA MAARUTO DEVATAA VISHVEDEVAH DEVTAA. BRISHASPATIR DEVATENDRO DEVATAA,

VARUNO DEVATAA.

OM DHYAU SHANTIR ANTARIKSHE SHAANTIH PRITHVI SHANTI RAAPAH SHAANTIR AUSHADHAYAH,
SHAANTI VANASPATYAH.
SHAANTI VISHVE DEVAH SHAANTI REVA SHAANTIH SAAMA SHAANTIREDHI SUSHANTIR BHWATI.

OM VISHVAANI DEVA SAVITURDURITANI PARAASUV YAD BHADRAM TANNA AASUVA,
IMAA RUDRAAYE TAVASE KAPADDIR
NEKSHAYA DWIRAAYE PRAVARAAMAHE MATIH YATHAA SHAMSADWAI
PADEY
CHATUSHPADEY VISHVAM PUSHTAM GRAAMEY
ASMINNAATURAM,ETANTEY DEVA SAVITUR YAGYAM
PRAHURBRIHASPATYE BRAHMANEY TEYN YAGYAMAV TEYN YAGYA PATIM TEYN MAAMAV

MANO JYOTIR JUSHATAM AJASYA BRIHAS PATI YAGYAM IMAM
TANO TVARISHTAM YAGYA SAMIM
MAND DHATTU VISHVEDEVAAH
SA IHMADYANTAAMO PRATISHTHA AISHAVEY PRATISHTHAA NAAM
YAGYO YATRE TEYN YAGYEN YAJANTEY SARVAM EVA PRATISHTHITAM BHAWATI
OM DEVASYATVAA SAVITUH PRASAVE ASHWINO BAAHUBHYAAM POOSHANO HASTAABHYAAM.

Explanation: All the mantras of Swasti vachan pray for the well being of the world and exhort that peace should prevail upon the earth and the Universe. Oh God, let your eight elements viz. the heavens, space, earth, water medicines, flora, Vishvay Deva and Brahma spread peace in the Universe and ensure the well being of all. After this the Goddess is bathed respectively with milk, curds (yoghurt), ghee (clarified butter) honey and suger. As the bath with each of these is completed, the Goddess is, also bathed with water before commencing the bath with the next item. While these baths are going on the following mantras are chanted.

MANTRA FOR BATHING IN MILK
OM PAYAH PRITHVIYAAM PAYA AUSHADHISHU PAYO DIVYA ANTRIKSHE PAYODHAAH, PAYASVATIH PRADISHAH SANTUMAHYAM.

Explanation: That which has been produced by the cow Kamdhenu, that which is the basis for all life, that which is also pure enough for being used in a “Yagya,” such is the milk I am using to bathe you.

MANTRA FOR BATHING IN WATER
OM DEVASYATVAA SAVITUH PRASAVE ASHVINO BAAHU BHYAAM POOSHANO HASTAAVHAYAAM

ASMIN SANNIDHIM KURU. OM GANGA SINDHU SARASWATI CHA YAMUNA GODAVARI NARMADHAA, KAAVERI SARYU MAHENDRA TANYA CHARMANVATI VEDIKA. KSHIPRAA VETRAVATI MAHASUR NADI KHYATAA CHA YAA GANDAKI, PURNAA PURNA JALEY SAMUDRA SANHITAA KURVANTU BHO MANGALAM. OM MANGALAM BHAGWAN VISHNU MANGALAM GARUD DHWAJA, MANGALAM PUNDARIKAAKSHA MANGALAM TANO HARIH.


After the ablutions are over, Lord Ganpati is worshipped by the chanting of the following mantras, Lord Ganpati is always invoked when any auspicious act is to be performed:

MANTRA FOR WORSHIP OF GANPATI

OM GANAA NAANTVAA GANPATI HAWAAMAHEY PRIYAA NAAM
TVAA PRIYAPATI HAVAMAHEY HIDHINAAM TVA NIDHI PATI
HAWAMAHEY VASO MAM,
AHAM JAANIGBBHARDHAMAA TVAM
JAASI GANEY BHYO GANPATI
BHAYASCH VO NAMO NAMO, BRAATEY BHYO BRAAT PATIB HYASCHA VO NAMO NAMO,
GRIHATSEYBHYO GRIHATS PATIBHYASCH VO NAMO NAMO,
VIRUPEY BHYO VISHVARUPEY BHAYASCH
VO NAMO NAMAH.
OM GANAPATEY NAMAH.
OM SUMUKHAH CHA EK DANTASCH KAPILO GAJ KARNA KAH, LAMBODARASCH VIKATO VIGHNA NAASHO VINAAYA KAH.
DHUMRA KETU GANAAR DHYAKSHO BHAAL CHANDRO GAJAANA NAH, DWADASH ETAANI NAAMAANI YAH PATHAIT SHRANU YAAD PAI. VIDYARAMBHEY VIVAAHEY CHA PRAVESHEY NRIGAMEY TATHAA. SANKATEY CHA EV
VIGHNAH TASYA NA JAAYATEY. VAKRATUND MAHAA KAAI KOTI SURYA SAMPRAB HA,
NIRVIGHNAM KURU MEY DEV SARVA KAARYESHU SARVADAA.
OM BRAHMAA MURAARI STRIPURAANTA KAARI BHAANUH SHASHI BHOOMI SUTO
VADHUSCH CHA,
GURUSCH CHA SHUKRA SHANI RAHU KETAVAH SARVEY GRAHAAH SHAANTI KARAA BHAVAN TU.

Explanation: Oh Ganpati, we pray to you for overcoming all obstructions and for the welfare of our women , children and loved ones. We were born out of the wombs of our mothers whereas you emerged independently, oh Lord with the bent trunk, enormous body and the effulgence of a million sons, please remove all the difficulties that lie in the performance of my task.

MANTRAS FOR BESEECHING
FORGIVENESS FOR SINS AND FAULTS

NA MANTRAM NO YANTRAM TADAPI
CHA JAANEY STUTIMAHO
NA CHAAHVAANAM DHYANAM TADAPI CHA
NA JAANEY STUTI KATHAAH,
NA JAANEY MUDRAA AASTE TADAPI CHA
NA JAANEY VILAPANAM
PARAM JAANEY MAATAH TYAD
ANUSARANAM KLESH
HARNAM.
VIDHEYR GYANEYN DRAVINAM VIRHEYNAA ALASTYAA VIDHEYAA SHAKYA
TVAAT TAV CHARAN YORYAA CHYUTIRBHUT.
TADEY TAT KSHANTA VYAM JANANI SAKLO DWAARINI SHIVEY KUPUTRO JAAYATEY KVACHIDAPI KUMAATAA NA BHAWATI. PRITHIVYAAM PUTRAASTEY JANANI BAHWA SANTI SARLAAH
PARAM TESHAAM MADHYEY VIRAL.
TARALO AHAM TAV SUTAH,
MADIYO AYAM TYAAGAH SAMUCHITAM IDAM NO TAV SHIVEY
KUPUTRO JAAYATEY KVACHIDAPI KUMAATA NA BHAWATI.
JAGAN MAATAR MAATAH
TAV CHARAN SEWAA NA RACHITAA NA VAA DATAM DEVI DRAVINAM API BHUYASTAV MAYAA.
TATHAAPI TVAM SNEHAM MAYI NIRUPAMAM YAT PRAKURUSHEY KUPUTRO JAAYATEY KVACHIDAPI KUMAATA NA BHAWATI. PARITYAKTAA DEVAA VIVIDH VIDH SEWAA KUL TAYAA MAYAA PANCHAASHITEYDHIKAM PANITEY TU VAYASI, IDAANIM CHEYN MAATAH TAV YADI KRIPA NA API BHAVITAA
NIRAM LAMBO LAMBNODAR JANNANI KAM YAAMI SHARNAM. SHVAPAAKO JALPAAKO BHAWATI MADHUPAAKO APAMGIRAA. NIRAANTANKO RANKO VIHARTI CHIRAM KOTI KANKEYH,
TVAA PARNEY KARNEY VISHATI MANUVARNEY PHALAM IDAM
JANAH KO JAANITEY JANANI JAPNIYAM JAPVIDYO.
C HITAA BHASMAA LEPO GARALAM SHANAM DIKPATDHARO
JATA DHARI KANTHEY BHUJAGPATI HAARI PASHUPA TIH, KAPAALI BHOOTESHO BHAJATI JAGDISH EKAA PADVIM BHAWAANI TVATPAANI GRAHAN PARIPAATI PHALAM IDAM.
NA MOKSHASYA AKAANSHAA BHAV VIBHAV VAANCHHA API CHA
NA MEY NA VIGYAAN APEKSHAA SHASHI MUKHI SUKHECHHA API NA PUNAH.

ATAH TVAAM SANYAACHEY JANANI JANANAM YAATU MAM VEIY MRIDANI RUDRAANI SHIV SHIV BHAWANNI ITI JAPATAH.
NAA AARAADHITTA ASI VIDHINAA VIVIDHOPCHAAREYH
KI RUKSHA CHINTAN PAPEIRNA KRITAM VACHOBHIH, SHYAMEY TVAMEYV
YADI KINCHAN MAYAA NAATHEY DHATSEY KRIPAAM UCHITAMAMBA PARAM TAVEYV.
AAPATSU MAGNAH SMARNAM TVADIYAM KAROMI DURGEY KARUNAAARNAVESHI,
NAI TACHHATH TVAM MAM
BHAAVYEYTHAH
KSHUDHA TRISHATRTAA JANANI SMARANTI
JAGDAMBN VICHITRA MANTRAM KIM PARIPURNAA KARUNA ASTI CHENMAYI,
APRAADH PARAMPARA PARAM NAHI MAATAA

SAMUPEKSHATEY SUTAM.
MATSAMAH PAATAKI NAASTI PAAPAGHNI TVATSAMAA NA HE,
EVAM GYAATVA MAHAADEVI YATHAA YOGYAM TATHAA KURI.

Explanation: Oh Mother, I am ignorant of either the ways in which you should be worshipped or the mantras which should be chanted in your praise. I do not even know how to meditate upon you. I am illiterate, lazy and poor. It is due to these defects that I often commit errors while trying to worship you. However, I know one thing for certain that if I persist in my endeavour to please you, I will be rewarded and you will remove all the sorrows that afflict me today. Oh, Mother , I am your child and it does not behove you to discard me. For it is well known that even if a son may become an ungrateful wretch his mother never forsakes him.

Oh Mother, it is well known that if even a single word of the mantras chanted in your praise falls into the ears of the most wretched person he benefits beyond measures both spiritually and materially. And worshipping you regularly brings incalculable merit to your devotees. Oh Mother, it is well known that even Shanker attained his enviable status of Bhagwan only after you lent your helping hand by marrying him. Therefore, I would also like to spend my life in worshipping you rather than in seeking material pleasures. Oh Mother, even when a son commits one sin after another, his mother never rejects him. Instead, she accepts him and continues to love him. Oh Mother, there is no greater sinner than me and there is none who can forgive sins like you. So, I am throwing myself at your mercy. Please do whatever you think is appropriate.


The following mantra is chanted while the Goddess is dressed after the ablutions.

MANTRA FOR DONNING OF GARMENTS

OM YUVAAH SUVAASAH PARIVEET AAGAAT SA USHREYAAN BHAWATI JAAYE MAANAH,
TANDHI RAASAH KAVAYA UNNYATI SWADHYO MANSAH DEVYANTAH. VASTRAM SAMARPAYAAMI.

PURUSH SUKTAM
HARIH OM SAHASTRA SHEERSHAA PURUSHAH

SAHSTRA AAKASHAH SAHASTRA PAAT,
SA BHOOMI SAVATSPRITVAA TYATISHTHATH DASH AANGALAM.

Explanation: The Primordial Purush (Man) has innumerable heads, eyes and feet. He has enveloped the earth from all sides and even after that he has size to spare.

PURUSH EYVED SARVAVAM YADBHOOTAM YACCH BHAAVYAM, UTAAMRIT TVASYE SHAANO YADANNEY NAATI ROHATI.

Explanation: Whatever has occurred in the past and whatever will happen in the future is Purush only. He is the master of immortality and prosperity.

ETAA VAANSYA MAHIMAATO JYAAYAAN SHACH PURUSHAH,
PAADO ASYA VISHWAA BHOOTAANI TRIPAADASYA AMRITAM DIVI.

Explanation: This Purush is incredibly great. The entire Universe is adjusted in only one quarter of his being and the remaining three quarters are occupied by space.

TRIPAAD UDDDHRAV UDAYAT PURUSHAH
PAADO SYEHA BHAVAT PUNAH,’ TATO VISHWAN VYAK KRAAMATSA ASHNAA NASHNEY ABHI.

Explanation: Purush left three fourth of his being for space and with the remaining one fourth of his being he fashioned living and non living things and spread them all around.

TATO VIRAD JAAYAT VIRAAJO ADHI PURUSHAH,
SAJAATO ATYARICHYAT PASHCHAAD BHOOMI MATHO PURAH.

Explanation: Thereafter, a Universal Being known as Virad which contained innumerable things sprung out of the Primordial Purush. Virad thereafter produced another Purush which also had life. As soon as it came into existence this Purush fashioned himself into Gods, men etc. He then produced the earth and thereafter constructed a body.

TASNNAADYA GYAAT SARVA HUTAH SAMBHRITAM PRISHDAA JYAM,
PASHKUNSTAANSH CHAKKREY VAAYVYAA
NAARANYA GRAMYASHCCHAYE.

Explanation: This Purush then collected ghee mixed with curds (clarified butter mixed with yogurt) and created the creatures which lived in the forests and in the sky.

TASMAAD YAGYAAT SARVA HUTRICHAH
SAAMAANI JAGYIREY,
CHHANDAA ASI JAGYIREYT A SMAADYA JUST SMAAD JAAYAT.

Explanation: Rig and Sama Veda were produced by this Purush. It was also he who created the Atharva Ved and Yajur Ved.

TASMAADSHVA AJAAYANT YEY KEY CHOBHYADATAH,
GAAVO HA JAGYIREY TASMAATTSMAAJA JAATAA AJAAVYAH.

Explanation: This Purush created horses, assess, creatures with teeth on the upper and lower jaws, cows and goats and sheep.

TAM YAGYAM BAHARISHI PRAUKSHANN PURUSHAM JAATAM GRATAH.
TEYN DEVAA AJAAYANT SAADHYA RISHYASH CHA YEY.

Explanation: The Devas then worshipped this Purush who was created before creation of the Universe. Thereafter the Devas, the Prajapatis and the sages completed the Yagya.
YATPURUSHAM VYAD DHUH KATI DHAA
VYAKALPAYAN,
MUKHAM KIMSYASEETKIM BAAHU KIMRU PAADAA UCHYETEY.

Explanation: When the Virad Purush was motivated to appear in person by the prayers of the Devas, into how many parts was he divided ; What were his face, arms, legs and feet called;

BRAHMANO ASYA KUKHAM AASEED BAAHU RAAJANYAH KRITAH,
URU TADASYA YADAD VAISHYAH PADBHYAM SHUDRO AJAAYAT.

Explanation: The Brahmans were born out of the face of this Purush, the kshatriyas were born out of his arm,s from the thighs and legs were born the Vaishyas and the Shudras sprung from his feet.
CHHANDRAMAA MANSO JAATASH CHAKSHOH SURYO AJAAYAT,
SHROTRAD VAYUSHCHA PRAANASH CHA MUKHAAD AGNIR JAAYAT.

Explanation: The moon was born out of his mind, the sun was born out of his ears and fire was born out of his mouth.
NABYAA AASEEDANTARIKSHA SHIRSHNO DYOH SAMVARTAT,
PADBHYAAM BHUMIRDDISHAH SHROTRAA TATHA LOKAN ANKALPAYAN.

Explanation: From his navel was created space, from his head was created heaven , from his feet was created the earth and from his ears the four directions and the various worlds.

YATPURUSHEYN HAVISHA DEVA YAGYAM TANVAT,
VASANTO ASYASI DAAJYAM GREESHMA IDHMAH SHARAD DHVIH.

Explanation: After the Devas were blessed with divine bodies they performed a Yagya with the materials that were fashioned out of the being of Purush . At that time spring season acted as the ghee for the yagya, summer season acted as the fuel for the yagya and winter season acted as the mixture that is put as “Homa” in the Yagya.

SAPTAASYAASAN PARIDHYISTRAH SAPT SMIDHAH KRITAAH,
DEVAA YADYA GYANTANAVAANAA ABAGHNAN PURUSHAM PASHUM.

Explanation: When the Devas were performing this yagya with their minds in which they had transformed Purush into animal form, the yagya had seven “Paridhis” and twenty one “Samidhas”. The seven Paridhis included Mantras like the Gayatri and the twenty one Samidhas included the twelve months, five seasons, three worlds and the sun.

YAGYEYN YAGYAM YAJANT DEVAASTAANI DHARMAANI PRATHMAA NYAASAN,
THE NAAKAM MAHIMAANAH SACHANT YATRA POORVEY SAAD DHYAAAH SANTI DEVAAH.

Explanation: The Devas worshippedthe Purush with the Yagya. It was this Purush who was the first Dharma. The worshippers (Devas), therefore, attained “Swarg” or heaven. It is in this heaven that Brahma who is an expert in fashioning the Universe lives along with the other Devtas.


When the chanting of the “Purush Suktam” is over the following mantras are chanted while sandal wood paste, rice grains and flowers are offered to the Goddess.

MANTRAS FOR PUTTING SANDAL WOOD PASTE

OM GANDHA DWAARAAM DURAADHARSHA NITYA PUSHTAAM KAREESHINEEM,
EESHWAREEM SARVA BHOOTAANAAM TAAMIHYOP HAVYEY SHRIYAM.
OM TVAAM GANDHARVAA AKHANAH TVAAM INDRAH,
TVAAM BRIHASPATIH,
TVAAM AUSHADHEY SOMO RAAJAA VIDVAAN YAKSHAM AADAMUCHAYAT.
OM SHRI KHANDAM CHANDANAM DIVYAM GANDHAADYAM SUMANOHARAM,
VILEYPANAM SURSHESHTHA CHANDANAM PRATI GRIHYAATAAM.

Explanation: I beseech the all powerful and master of all the riches, Goddess Laxmi, to come here and kindly accept this divinely smelling sandal wood paste.

MANTRAS FOR PUTTING RICE GRAINS
OM AKSHANNAM EEMDANT HYAAV PRIYAA ADHOOSHAT,
ASTAUSHAT SWABHANAVO BIPA NA VISHTTHAYA MATI YOJAANVINDRA TEY HAREE.
AKSHATAAN SAMARPYAAMI.

Explanation: Oh Goddess, I offer to you rice grains which have been coloured with saffron and are fit for the gods. Please accept them.

MANTRAS FOR PUTTING FLOWERS
OM YA PHALINEERYA APHALA APUSHPAA YAASH CHA PUSHPNEE,
BRISHASPATI PRASUTAASTAA NO MUNCHANTVAN HASAH.
OM AUSHDHEEH PRATIMO DHWAM PUSHPVATIH PRASU VARIH,
ASHVA IV SAJITVAREER VEERUDHAH PAAR YISHNA VAH.

Explanation: I have brought these fragrant flowers for your worship. Kindly accept them.

SHRI SUKTAM

OM HIRANYA VARNAAM HARINEEM SUVARNA RAJAT SRAJAM,
LAKSHMEEM JAAT VEDO MA AAVAH.
TAAM MA AAVAH JAAT VEDO LAKSHAMEE
MANAP GAAMINEEM,
YASYAAM HIRANYAM VINDEYAM GAAM SHVAM PURUSHAANAHAM.
ASHVA PURVAAM RATHMADHYAAM HASTINAAD PRA BODHINEEM
SHRIYAM DEVI MUPHAVYEY SHRIR MAA DEVI JUSHAA TAM.
KAAM SO SMITAAM HIRANYA PRAAKAARAA MAAR DRAAM JWALANTEEM TRIPAAM TAARPAYANTEEM,
PADMEY STHITAAM PADMA VARNAA TAAMI HOP HAVYEY SHRIYAM.
CHANDRAAM PRABHAASAM YASHASAA JWALANTIM SHRIYA LOKEY DEV JUSHTAAM UDAARAAM,
TAAM PADMANEY IMAM SHARANAM AHAM PRAPADD YEY ALAKSHMIRMAY NASHYA TAAM TVAAM VRINEY.
ADITYA VARNEY TAPSO ADHIJAATO VANASPATHSTAVA VIRKSHO ATHBILVAH,
TASYA PHAAALAANI TAPASA NUDANTU MAAYANTRAA YAASHCHA BAAHYAA
ALAKSHMIH.
UPETU MAM DEVSAKHAH KIRTISH CHA MANINAASHA,
PRADURBHOOTO SURAASHTREY ASMIN KEERTIM VRIDDHIM DADAATUMEY.
KSHUTIPA PAASAAMLAAM YASYESHTHAAM LAKSHMMEM NAA SHYAA MAHYAM,
ABHOOTIM SAMRIDDHIM CHA SARVAA NIRNUD MEY GRIHAAT.
GANDHA DWAARAAM DURAA DHARSHAA NITYA PUSHTAAM KAREESHNEEM,
EESHWAREEM SARVABHOOTANAAM
TAAMI HOP HAVYEY SHRIYAM.
MANSAH KAAMAM AAKUTIM VAACHAH SATYAMSHIMAHI,
PASHUNAAM PUPMANNASYA MAYI SHRIH SHREYA TAAM YASHAH.
KARDAMEYN PRAJA BHOOTA MAYIM SAMBHRAV KARDAM,
SHRIYAM VAASAYE MAY KULEY MAATARAM PADMAMAALINEEM.
AAPAH SRIJANTU SNIGHDAANI CHIKLEET VAS MEY GRIHEY,
NI CHA DEVIM MAATARAM SHRIYAM
VAASAY MEY KULEY.
AARDRAAM PUSHKARINEEM PUSHTIM PINGLAAM PADMAMAA LINEEM,
CHANDRAAM HIRANYAMAYEEM LAKSHMEEM JAAT VEDO MA AAVAH.
TAAM MA AAVAH JAAT VEDO LAKSHEE MANAAGAAMINEEM,
YASYAAM HIRANYAM PRABHOOTEEM GAAVO DAA SYOASHVAAN VINDEYAM PURUSHAANAHAM. YAH SHUCHIN PRAYATO BHUTVA JUHUYAA
DAAJYAM ANVAHAM,
SUKTAM PANCH DARSH CHA SHRI KAAMAH SATATAM JAPETY.

Explanation: Oh Agni Dev (the god of fire), sages Karabh and Chikleet, help me to persuade the Goddess Lakshmi to stay in my house (Karabh and Chikleet are two of the four sons of Lakshmi. The other two sons are known as Anand and Shreet). Oh Goddess Lakshmi, I beseech you to take up residence in my house and banish poverity and misery from it. Help me to befriend Kuber (the god of wealth) so that I can lead a life to luxury and happiness surrounded by my family and friends.


MANTRA AT THE TIME OF PLACING GARLANDS OF FLOWERS

OM MAALYA DEENEE SUGANDHEENI MAAL TYAADEENEE VAYE PRABHO,
MAYA HOOTAANI PUSHPAANI POOJAARTH PRATI GRIHYATAAM.
DHYANAM (MEDIATION)
ON MAATA MAKA KAALI
OM KHADAGAM CHAKRA GADEYSHU CHAAP PA RIGHAAN
CHHULAM BHUSHUNDIM SHRIRAH, SHAN KHAM SAND DHATIM KAREY STRI NAYNAAM
DYOOTIMAASYA PAAD
DASHKAAM SEVEY MAHA KAALI KAAM.
YAAMASTAU TASVAPITEY HARAU KAMAL JO HANTUM MADHUMKAITABHAM.

Explanation: I worship Mata Kali whose help Brahma sought to kill the Rakshas, Madhu and Kaitabh. Mata Maha Kali carries a sword, a disc, a mace, a bow and arrow, a trident and a conch shell in her hands. Her body is adorned with divine ornaments and she has three eyes ten faces and ten feet.

OM MAATA MAHAA LAKSHMI
OM AKSHASTRAK PARSHUM GADESHU KULISHAM PADMAM DHANUH KUNDIKAAM
DANDAM SHAKTIMASIM CHA CHARM JALJAM GHANTAAM SURAABHAAJANAM,
SHULAAM PAASH SUDARSHANEY CHA DADHTEEM HASTEYH PRASANNANNAM.
SEYVEY SAIRABHI MARDINEEMIH MAHALAKSHMEEM SAROJSTHITAAM.

Explanation: I pray to Mata Maha Lakshmi who destroyed Mahishasur. She is seated on a lotus flower and carries a rosary, a rope, a disc, a mace, a conch shell, a bell, a container for drinking honey and a shield.


OM MAATA MAHA SARASWATI
OM KHANTA SHOOL HALAANI SHANKH MUSALEY CHAKRAM DHANUSHAYAKAM,
HASTAABJAIRADADHATEEM GHANAANT VILASCHITAANSHU TULYAPRABHAAM.
GAURI DEH SAMUD BHAVAAM TRI JAGATAAM AADHAAR BHOOTAAM MAHAA,
POORVAMATRA SARSWATI MANU BHAJEY SHUMBHAADI DAITYA ARDINEEM.

Explanation: Mata Sarswati carries a conch shell, a plough, a bow and arrow, a bell, a trident and a disc in her hand. She is the basis of the three worlds. She was created out of the body of Gouri and has a halo like that of the moon in winter months, I pray to her.


MANTRAS FOR OFFERING INCENSE

OM VANASPATI RASOD BHOOTO GANDHAADYO GANDH UTTAMAH,
AAGHREYA SARVA DEVAA NAAM
DHOOPOAYAM PRATI GRIHYATAAM.
OM DHOORSI DHOOVRA DHOOVRA
VANTAN DHOOVRAV TAM YO ASMAAN.
DEVAANAAMASI VAHINTAMAH
SASNITAMAM PRAPITMAM JUSHTATAM
DEVHOOTAMAM OM DHUPAAY NAMAH.

Explanation: This has been explained earlier.


MANTRA FOR WORSHIPPING THE FLAME OF THE LAMP

OM SUPRAKASH MAHAA DEEP SARVATASTIM RAPAH, PRASID MAM GOVND DEEP ARGHYAH PRATI GRIHYATAAM.
OM AGNI JYOTIR JYOTIR AGNIH SWAAHHA SURYO JYOTI JYOTIR SURYAH SWAAHAA.
AGNIR VARCHO JYOTIR VARCHAH
SWAAHA
SURYO VARCHO JYOTIR VARCHAH
SWAAHAA.
JYOTIS SURYAH SURYO JYOTIH SWAAHAA.
OM DEEPAEY NAMAH.

Explanation: This has been explained earlier.


MANTRA FOR NAIVAIDYA

OM NAABHYA AASID ANTRIKSHA SHEERSHANO DYOH SAMVARTAT.
PADBHYAM BHOOMIR DASHAH SHROTRAA TATHAA LOKAAM LOKAAM AKALPAYAN.
NAIVAIDYAM NIVEDYAAMI.
OM PRAANAAYA SWAAHAA OM AAPNAAYA SWAAHAA.
OM SAMAANAYA SWAAHAA OM UDAANAAY SWAAHAA.
OM VYAANAAYA SWAAHAA.
NAIVAIDYANTEY PUNAR AACHMANEEYAM
SAMARPAYAAMI.

Explanation: He who produced space from his navel, Heaven from his head, Earth from his feet and the directions from his ears and also created the various worlds, please accept my offering.


MANTRA FOR AARTI

OM IDAM HAVIH PRAJANAANAM MEY ASTU DASHVEERAH SARV GANA SWASTAYE,
AATMSNI PRAJAASANI PASHUSNI
LOKSANYA BHAY SNI.
AGNI PRAJAAM BAHULAAM MEY KARO TAVNAM PAYO RETO ASMAASU DHATTA.
AA RAATRI PAARTHIVAH RAJAAH
PITURAMPRAAYI DHAAMMIH.
DIVAH SADAA ASI BRIHATI VITISHTHHAS
AATVESHAM VARTATY TAMAH..

Explanation: May this “Havi” be the producer of innumerable powerful and brave creatures. May this “Havi” give strength to the soul, to the people, to the animals, indeed to the entire world. May this Havi benefit me too and spread happiness and well being all around.

OM PRATHMEY GURU JI KI VANDANA
DWITEEYA AAD GANESH.
THRITEEYA SIMRAAN SHAARDA
MERE KARAJ KARO HAMESH.
AANANDI AANAND KARO KALYAANI KALYAAN.
AATHH PRAHAR CHAUSATHH GHARI DEYO CHARNAN DAA DHYAAN.
AARTI OF MAATAA VAISHNO DEVI
OM JAYA SHRI SUNDER LALITEY MAHAA
JAYA SHRI SUNDER LALITEY
CHAKROPARI RAAJATKAAMESHWAR SAHITEY, OM JAI…..
DEV JAYA DEV
OM SAA VINDU GUNA KONO PARI RAAJAT.
VASUKONEY MAHAA RAAJAT MAHAARAAJAT.
TAD UPARI DASH KO NA DHWAJ SHUDDH CHATUR DWAAREE.
OM JAI DEVA JAYA DEVA.
MATINDEYNDU KADAATAL BHOOSHIT GUNA RAJASEY,
MAHAA RAAJAT MAHAA RAAJAT,
TADUPARI TRIREK NIRMIT SHOBHIT MANU RAJSEY,
OM JAY DEV JAYA DEV.
SHRI CHAKROPARI RAAJAT MANU VIN MAHAA TANUTEY
MAHAARAAJAT
MAHAARAAJAT
NEERANJAN SAH TVANJEY PARAM SAFAL LALITEY,
OM JAY DEVA JAI DEVA.
TVAMM MAAM PAALAY NITYAM.
TAVAAN MAAM PALAY NITYAM
MAHAARAAJAT MAHAARAAJAT
TRIKUTUA JAGDAMBEY.
OM JAI DEV JAI DEV.
OM JAI SHRI SUNDER LALITEY.
MAHAA JAI SHRI SUNDER LALITEY.
SHRI CHAKRO PARI RAAJAT KAAMESHWAR SAHITEY,
OM JAI DEV JAI DEV.
OM AARTIRKYAM SAMAR PYAMI.
OM ONKAARAM VINDUM SANYUKTAM NITYAM DHYAY
ANTIYOGINAH
KAAMDAM MOKSHADAM CHAEV
ONKARRAAY NAMO NAMAH.

Explanation: He who is constantly worshipped by the sages and who grants salvation to all, I salute you.

OM SHANKHA MADHYA STHITAM TOYAM BHRAAMITAM DEVYOPARI,
ANGA LAGNEY MANUSHYANAM BRAHM
HATYA DIKAM HAREYT.

Explanation: You who are at the heart of the sea shell, whoever even touches you sheds off even the most heinous sins.


MANTRAS FOR OFFERING FLOWERS

OM YAGYEN YAGYA MAYA JANT
DEVAASTAANI
DHARMAANI PRATHMAA NYAASAN.
THE NAAKAM MAHIMAANAH SACHANT YATRA
POORVEY SAADHYAH SANTI DEVAAH.
OM MAHAA DEVI CHA VIDMAHEY VISHNU
PATNI CHA DHEEMAHI,
TANNO DEVI PRACHO DAYAAT.
OM VAKRA TUNDAAYE VIDMAEHEY EK DAN TAAYE DHEE MAHI,
TANNO DANTI PRACHO DAYAAT.
OM NAA NAA SUGANDHI PUSHPAANI RITU KAALO BHAWAANEE CHA,
PUSHPAANJALI MARYAADATTA GRIHAAN PARMESHWARI.


I have heard of the Goddess from the teachers and the scriptures and have tried to mediate upon her.
I now beseech the same Goddess Vaishnavi to motivate me to mediate upon her.
I have heard of Lord Ganesh from the teachers and scriptures and have mediated upon him.
I pray to Lord Ganesh to motivate me to mediate upon him.
I have prepared this collection of flowers by procuring flowers which grow in this season from different places. Oh, great Goddess, kindly accept my offering of flowers.


S T U T I

HEY MAAT MERI, HEY MAAT MERI HAY MAAT MERI, HEY MAAT MERI.
KAISEE YEH DEYREE LAGAAI HAI DURGEY,
HEY MAAT MERI, HEY MAAT MERI.
BHAV SAAGAR MEY GIRAA PADAA HOON
KAAM AADI GRAH SEY GHIRAA PADDA
HOON.
MOH AADI JAALON MEY JAKDA PADDA HOON.
HEY MAAT MERI HEY MAAT MERI.
NA MUJH MEY BAL HAI NA MUJH MEY VIDYA,
NA MUJH MEY BHAKTI NA MUJH MEY SHAKTI, SHARANTUMHAARI GIRAA PADA HOON, HEY MAAT MERI, HEY MAAT MERI.
NO MERA KOI KUTUMB SAATHI, NA HI MERAA SHAREER SAATHI,
AAP HEE UBHARO PAKAD KE BAHEN,
HEY MAAT MERI HEY MAAT MERI.
CHARAN KAMAL KEE NAUKAA
BANAA KAR, MAIN PAAR HOONGAA KHUSHI MANAA KAR, YAM DOOTAON KO MAAR
BHAGAAKAR, HEY MAAT MERI HEY MAAT MERI.
SADAA HEE TERE GUNOON KO GAAOON,
SADAA HEE TERE SWAROOP KO DHYAOON.
NIT PRATI TERE GUNON KO GAAOON,
HEYMAAT MERI HEY MAAT MERI.
NA MAIN KISSI KAA NA KOI MEERA.
CHHAYAA HAI CHARO AUR ANDHERA,
PAKAD KE JYOTI MAA DIKHAAO RASTA,
HEY MAAT MERI HEY MAAT MERI.
SHARAN PADE HAIN HUM TUMHARI,
KARO YEH NAIYAA PAAR HAMARI,
KAISEE YEH DERI LAGAAYEE HEY JANANI,
HEY MAAT MERI HEY MAAT MERI.

OM TVAMEV MAATA CHA PITA TVAMEV
TVAMEV BANDHUSHCHA SAKHAA TVAMEV,
TVAMEV VIDYA CHADRAVINAM TVAMEV
TVAMEV SARVAM MAM DEV DEV.



OM SHAANTAAKAARAM BHUJAG SHAYANAM PADMANAABHAM SURESHAM,
VISHWAADHAARAM GAGAN SADRISHAM MEGHAVARNAM SHUBHAANGAM.
SHRI LAKSHMIKAANTAM KAMALNAYANAM YOGIBHIR DHYAANGAMYAM,
VANDEVISHNU BHAVHAYAHARAM
SARVLOKEY EKNAATHAM.
OM ACHYUTAM KESHAVAM RAAM
NAARAAYANAM KRISHAN. DAAMODARAM,
VAASUDEVAM HARIM.
SHRIDHARAM MAADHAVAM GOPIKAA VALLABHAM JAANAKI NAAYAKAM SHRIRAAM CHANDRAM BHAJE.
OM HAREY MURAAREY MADHU KAITABHAREY GOVIND GOPAAL MUKUND KISHOREY,
GYANAM PRADEHI SHARNAM PRADEHI VIDYA PRADEHI BHAGWAN NAMO STUTEY.

SANCHE DARBAR KI JAI

SACHIYAN JOTANVAALI MAATAA TERI SADAA HEE JAI.
PANCHPHOOLAN RAANI MAATAA TERI SADDA HI JAI.
SARVATRA DA BHALAA KARAN VAALI MAATAA TERI SADA HI JAI.
SAARE SANSAAR VICH SHANTI DEYN VAALI MAATAA TERI SADA HI JAI.
LAUNKARA VEER THAKUR TERI SADAA HI JAI.
BOL SAANCHEY DARBAR KI JAI.
DURGEY SMRITA HARSI BHEETIM SHESH JANTOH,
SWASTHEYHSMRITA MATIMATEEV
SHUBHAM DADAASI.
DAARIDRYA DUKHBHAYAHAARINI KATVADANYA,
SARVORKAAR KARANAAYE SADA
ARDRACHITTA.

Explanation: On Goddess Durga, you remove the fear of all those who think of you and grant them a sharp mind. You are always busy in doing good to the others.


SARVA MANGALA MAANGALYE
SHIVEYSARVAARTH SAADHIKEY,
SHARNAYE TRAYAMBAKEY
GAURI NAARAAYANI NAMOSTUTEY.


Explanation: Oh Narayaani, Oh Shivi, Oh Gauri you filful the desires of all. I pray to you.


SHARNAAGAT DEENAART PARITRAAN PARAAYANEY,
SERVASYARTI HAREY DEVI NAARAAYANI NAMOSTUTEY.

Explanation: You who are perpetually endeavouring to protect the weak and the poor and remove their misery. Oh Narayani, I pray to you.

SARVASVAROOPEY SARVESHEY
SARVSHAKTI SAMANVIETEY,
BHAYEBHYAH TRAAHI NOODEVI
DURGE NAMOSTUTEY.

Explanation: Oh Goddess Durga, please protect us from all kinds of fear. Oh omnipotent Durga I pray to you.

ROGAAN SHOSHAAN
PAHANSITUSHTARUSHTATU
KAAMAAN SAKLAAN BHISHTAAN,
TVAAM AASHRITAANAAM NA
VIPANNARAANAM.
TVAAMAASHRITAAHYA SHRAYTAAM PRAYAANTI.

Explanation: Oh Goddess, when you are pleased you remove all ailments and when you are angry you destory everything that a person desires for. However, Those, who come to you for sanctuary never have to confront any casastrophy. Instead, such people secure enough merit to provide shelter to others.
SARVA BADHA PRASHMANAN TRAILOKYA SYAKHILESHWARI, EVAMEVMEV TVAYAA KAARYAM SMA DVERI VISAASHNAM. SARVAA BAADHA VINIRUMK TO DHAN DHAANYA SUTAAN VITAH. MANUSHYO MAT PRASAADEN BHAVISHYATI NA SANSHA YAH.

Explanation: whoever listens to the story of the Goddess during the great Puja that is organised in the winters succeeds in overcoming all obstacles and is blessed wealth and progeny.

JYANTI MANGALAA KAALI BHADRA KAALI KAPAALINEE DURGAA KSHAMAA SHIVAA DHAATREE SWAAHAA SVADHAA NAMO STUTEY.

Explanation: Oh Goddess, you who are known by the names of Mangala, kali, Bhdra kali, Kapalinee, durge, Kshama, Shivaa, Dhatri, Swahaa, Swadha, I pray to you.

DEHI SAUBHAAGYAM AAROGYAM DEHI DVISHO JAHI.

Explanation: Oh Goddess, bless me with good fortune, good health, good looks, success and fame.

VIDEHI DEVI KALYANAM VIDEHI PARMASHRIYAM, RUPAM DEHI JAYAM DEHI YASHO DEHI DVISHO JAHI.

Explanation: Oh Vaishnavi, you are the very basis for the world. You have mesmerised the World. When you are pleased with some one you ensure his salvation from the cycle of life and death.


PRAYER BESEECHING FORGIVENESS

APRAADH SAHASTRAANI KRIYANTEY HARNISHAM MAYAA, DAASO YAMITI MAAN MATVAA KSHAMASV PARMESH WARI.

Explanation: I commit thousands of sins everyday. Oh Goddess, please think of me as your slave and pardon my crimes.

AA VAAHANAM NA JANAAMI NA JANAAMI VISARJANAM, POOJAAM CHAEV NAJANAAMI.

Explanation: I know not how to call you, nor how to appease you. Nor do I know how to worship you. Oh Goddess, please forgive me.

MANTRA HEENAM KRIYA HEENAM BHAKTI HEENAM SURESHWAREE. YAT PUJITAM MAYAA DEVI PARI POORNA TADASTU MEY.

Explanation: Oh, Sureswari this Puja that I have performed has been done without the chanting of proper mantras, or the performing of entreat you to make this Puja successful.


APRAADH SHATAM KRITVAA JAGDAMBETI CHOHRET. YAAM GATIM SAMNAAPOTINATAAM BRAMA DAYAH SURAAH.

Explanation: He who seeks sanctuary in you even after committing hundreds of crimes and calls out your name “Jagdambikay” attains the kind of salavation which is not easily available to even the Devas.

SAAPRAADHO ASMI SHARANAM PRAAPTAH TVAAM JAGDAMBIKEY, IDDAANEEM ANUKAMPAYO AHAM YATHECHHASTI TATHAAKURU.

Explanation: Oh Goddess Parmeshwari, please pardon whatever excesses or shortcomings I have committed as a result of ignorance, loss of memory or misunderstanding.

KAAMESHWARI JAGANMAATAH SACHIDDANAND VIGRAHEY, GRIHAANAAR CHAMIM AAM PREETYA PRASEED PARMESHWARI.

Explanation: Oh Goddess Parmeshwari, please pardon whatever excesses or shortcomings I have committed as a result of ignorance, loss of memory or misunderstanding.

KAAMESHWARI JAGANMAATAH SACHIDDANAND VIGRAHEY, GRIHAARNAAR CHAMIM AAM PREETYA PRASEED PARMESHWARI.

Explanation: Oh Goddess, please accept my prayers and beseech you to shower your blessing upon me constantly.

GUHYAATIGUHYA GOPTREE TVAM GRIHAA NAASMATKRITAM JAPAM, TVATPRASAADAAT SURESHWARI.

Explanation: Oh Goddess, you are the protector of the most secret of things. Please accept my prayers and grant me salvation.



These prathna were taken from the Vaishnodevi Mandir website at http://maavaishnodevi.org/holy_arti_Mantras.asp.