Interesting titbits on Temples

Herein below are some interesting titbits-

1.Sri Rangam temple is approx. 155.5 acres in area.[1 acre is about 45000 sq.ft]

   Its temple tower is the highest in India i.e. 236 feet height

2.Mannargudi is 42 acres in area and the temple tower is 154 feet height.

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3.Tiruvarur temple is 30 acres in area.The temple tower is 118 ft.height.

4.Tiruvannamalai is 25 acres in area.Its temple tower is 217 feet height, the second largest in India.

5.Chidambaram is 16 acres in area and its temple tower is 140 feet height [northern side]

6.Madurai is 15 acres in area and its temple tower is 170.8 feet height [south gopuram]

7.Tiruvengadu temple is 10 acres in area.

8.Rameswaram is 865 x 657 feet in area and its temple tower is 126 feet height[east]

9.Thanjavur is 800 x0657 feet in area and its temple tower is 216 feet in height 3rd largest in india.

10.Tirunelveli temple is 756 x 378 feet in area.

11.Kumbakonam kumbeswarar temple is 750 x 252 feet in area and its temple tower is 128 feet in height next to sri sarngapani temple [Temple tower is 147 feet height]

12.Avudayarkoil temple tower is 200 feet height.

13.Tenkasi temple tower is 178 feet height.

14.Srivilliputhur temple tower is 164 feet height.

15.Tiruchendur temple tower is 127 feet height.

16.Sankarankoil temple tower is 125 feet in height.

17.Susindram temple tower is 134 feet height.

18.Tiruvanaikoil temple tower is 128 feet in height.

Wonder how they have built them that too with karungal. What an engineering marvel.We should be ashamed that we are not able to maintain them even.

-Compiled bySri Sethurama Sarma

From Sri Kanchi Periyava's discourses: An interesting story (Translated into English from Deivatthin Kural vol.3 by Sri Sethurama Sarma)

After assuming the power as the King, subsequent to the Kurukshetra war,Dharmaputhra performed many a lot of yagnas, including Aswamedha yagna, and as part of the Aswamedha yagna, he organised Annadhnam in a very large scale.Everybody was in praise of Dharmaputhra, as hitherto neither such a large scale Annadhanam was arranged by anybody else nor the quantum and the magnitude was matchless and hence all were prasing him whole heartedly. It is not a big thing for the Pandavas, but performing the same with dedication and pleasing mind and vathsalyam is great.Though it {annadhanam} was a part of the aswamedha yagna,the pandavas performed the same not just for the sake of it, not as a routine duty, not that unless they indulge in annadhanam then only, they will be able to get the full result of the yagna,they organised and performed the annadhanam with utmost care and dedication and the whole world praised them whole heartedly. Lord Sri Krishna was little bit worried because  of the over praising of the pandavas, as he suspected that it may lead to pride and if pride takes place, it will eat away the dharma.Keeping in mind the above aspects, Lord Sri Krishna worked out a plan to undermine the Pandavas for the Annadhanam.Not only to undermine the pandavas, but also to show to the world the greatness of performing such an act of pious [dharmam].With both the above purpose in mind, Lord Sri Krishna enacted a drama, as under

A good gathering was all praising  Dharmaputhra for arranging the Annadhanam in such a grand manner.At that instance, instantly from nowhere, a typical Mongoose appeared in the midst of the gathering with special features.Exactly half of the portion of the entire body of  the mongoose was glittering like gold.The mongoose visited the kitchen and put forth its entire body on the remnants of food articles found on the floor of the kitchen.Then, it exclaimed in an human voice, "why you people are praising for this small act of Annadhanam and yagna performed by Dharmaputhra.It will be in no way equal to the Dhanams and dharmams done by the poor unchavrithi brahmin of Kurukshethra". First thing was that the mongoose was glittering like gold, which was a special feature.Secondly, it spoke in human voice.Worst of all was that the subject matter that its comment over the Annadhanam performed by Dharmaputhra, who rules over the entire world as King of Kings and comparing it with the Dharmams performed by the unchavirithi brahmin of Kurukshethra was most astonishing thing.The people who have gathered there immediately questioned the Porqupine about its identity, who that unchavirthi brahmin was, what was the act of dharma performed by that brahmin and in what way the brahmin`s act was superior, etc.etc.The good old mongoose started narrating the story about the unchavrithi brahmin which happened long long ago in Kurukshethra.

Once, there was a large scale famine in Kurukshethra. Even big landlords found it difficult to meet out their food requirements as the stock of good grains got depleted day by day. If that is the case, you can imagine the state of affairs of ordinary people, especially like the unchavrithi brahmin.  The Brahmin had nothing to eat, but some old stock of wheat which were collected by him long ago from the fields, with lots of dust in it and it was also not in usable condition due to age.The family of the brahmin had churned that old wheat into flour and that was all available for them to eat and they had to pull on with whatever available then.The family consists of four people, the brahmin, his wife, his son and his daughter-in-law.The food, i.e. the wheat flour was sufficient for them only for one time in a day. They thought that they will share one handful each and eat it for the time being and pull on the day and for the next meal, even it was not available, let us pray and give up our life.Thus they sat and were about to eat. At that time, there entered an Athithi begging for alms.It so happened as if somebody was pulling their hands when they were about to eat. Every one in the family came forward instantaneously and offered their share of the meals -plain wheat flour -to the Athithi. Hospitality to be shown to the guest - Athithi devo bhava - is considered a social duty.There is a domestic duty also. Suppose in a family, there are four people , like in this case the Brahmin`s family, all are duty bound to carry out the social duty as well as the domestic duly and in this particular time, they preferred to be bound by the domestic duty. The Brahmin`s wife said that if the brahmin[husband] gives away his share of the meal to the athithi, then he may die of starvation and there will be no meaning for her to live without her husband and hence she came forward to offer her share of the meal to the athithi. Likewise, the son expressed that one`s parents are considered to be the living god - matha, pitha are equivalent to God Himself - and hence he cannot be a witness to the sufferings of his parents and hence he offered his share of the meal to the athithi. The son`s wife, i.e. the daughter-in-law of the brahmin also argued on the same lines as her mother-in-law and she offered her share of the meal to the athithi.

Generally speaking, in some such situations, one is inclined to get and partake anything that is coming on our way, but at the same time, one will think twice and go backwards when it comes to giving something to somebody. Whereas, the Brahmin`s family members were prepared to give up even their life for the sake of the Athithi.It is not that only big landlords or those who are rich alone can gift away and perform dhanams/dharmams, but even poor people like the brahmin`s family can also could be a good example when it comes to adhering  the path of dharma It could be compared to that of what the famous king, Ranthidevan and his family had done and the sacrifice done by the poor brahmin`s family is extremely great.

At last the Brahmin silenced all the three family members stating that as the head of the family, he is duty bound to take care of the other family members and knowingly he should not allow them to starve and die under any circumstances and if he so does, he cannot be pardoned at all for the sin committed by him.Thus saying, he offered his share of the wheat flour - meal - to the athithi with great love and affection.The athithi - yachagar - ate it but expressed that his stomach is not full.Immediately the brahmin`s wife - pathni - offered her share.The athithi ate it, but still he wanted more.Then, the son of the brahmin without any anger or hatred, offered his share.After eating that also, the athithi expressed that if he could be offered more, he is ready to consume it also. Seeing the situation, lastly the daughter-in-law of the brahmin  offered her share also to the athithi. After eating all the wheat flour offered as above by all the four family members,suddenly the Athithi disappeared and he was not to be found anywhere. Instantly it was raining flowers from above on them - pushpamari - Then, the Dharma Devethai Himself appeared in person and stated as follows: "Only to test you all, i only came in the guise of the Athithi and in that test, you have all won by your act of hospitality.I have never seen such a good hearted family anywhere and by offering your share of food to the athithi, you have all earned a permanent place in Deva Logam and reach the Devaloga happilly". Thus saying the Dharma devathai disappeared. At once a fully decorated Vimana appeared there and all the four family members of the brahmin got in that vimana and reached swargam.

Note: They reached swarga logam means that they died here, as all do and attained moksham. Like Sri Kuchelar, they did not reap wealth hereafter.Nor, they did offer the food to the Athithi, expecting that they will get blessed to go to the swargalogam.As a matter of routine, they showered hospitality to the athithi and that has earned them a place in swargalogam automatically.

After narrating the above story, the Mongoose continued to say what happened further.The Mongoose said that it was present physically at the Brahmin`s house when the above incident happened long ago in Kurukshethra. The Mongoose laid his body on the floor of the house, where some particles of the wheat flour have fallen and immediately that particular portion of its body became golden.[Even now, we comment on good and pious people as golden hearted men] After that the Mongoose thought that if such an act of hospitality/Dharma takes place in any other place like the one described above, it can go there and wished that the other portion of his body can also become gold, so that he can glitter with a full golden body. The Mongoose had been visiting lots of places wherever some such large scale Annadhanam took place but alas its wish could not be attained. The Mongoose said, keeping in mind that only, I also visited Kurukshethra where Dharmaputhra was doing Annadhanam, but here also i found no such thing has happened to my body and hence this Annadhanam can never be equal to the one done by the Brahmin`s family, thus saying the Mongoose went away.

Moral of the story: Dhanathil chirandathu Annadhanam. Even it amounts to give up our life, we should try to save another`s life by offering whatever we have.  With Pranams to Kanchi Mahaswamigal.

Athreya Sethurama Sarma.R.  

Cheta: Sri Somaskandam Chintaya- Dikshatar's composition on Lord Ekamranatha, Kanchipuram

Sri Muthuswami Dikshitar's krithis on  the Panchabhootha Sthalams are well known- the one representing the element of Earth (Prithvi) is Kanchipuram. The Prithvi lingam also known as Ekamreshwara (The Lord of the Mango Tree) was praised by Sri Dikshithar in his composition, set to Raga Bhairavi and the Rupaka Tala as-

Pallavi

चिन्तय माकन्द मूलकन्दं चेतः श्री सोमास्कन्दं 

Chintaya Maakanda moola kandam cheta: Sri Somaskandam

Cheta: chintaya Sri Somaskandam/moola kandam/ maakanda

Oh mind, remember Sri Somaskanda*1/the one on the base/ of the Mango tree

Anu Pallavi

सन्ततं अखण्ड  सच्चिदानन्दं  साम्राज्य प्रद चरणारविन्दं 

Santatam/ Akhanda Satchidaanandam/Saamraajya prada charanaaravindam

The Eternal One/ The one who is always the embodiment of Sat(Truth), Chit and bliss(anandam)*2 / The lotus feet of whom provides the kingdom *3

Charanam

मंगलकर मन्दहास वदनं  माणिख्यमय  काञ्चि सदनं

Mangalakara manda haasa vadanam/ maanikhya maya kaanchi sadanam

The auspicious face adorned with a smile/ Resides in the city of Kanchi which is filled with the precious gem- Maanikhya

अङ्ग सौन्दर्य विजित मदनं अन्तक सूदन कुन्द रदनं 

Anga soundarya vijita madanam/antaka soodana kunda radanam

(His) beauty that surpasses the splendour of the Cupid/ The one who destroyed the demon Antaka has teeth like jasmine buds

उत्तुङ्ग कमनीय वृष  तुरङ्गं     भैरवी प्रसङ्गं  गुरुगुहान्तारङ्गं  पृथ्वी लिङ्ग

Uttunga kamaneeya vrusha turangam /bhairavi prasangam/ guruguhaantarangam/ prithvi lingam

Has the tall and beautiful bull as His vehicle/ is the beloved of Bhairavi/is the inner self of Guruguha*5/ has manifested as the linga made of earth*4

Glossary:

*1 Somaskanda-The representation of Lord Shiva with four arms, Goddess Uma (Parvati) to his left and their son Skanda (Lord Muruga) as an infant, dancing in ecstacy between them. The shrine of Somaskanda is to the rear of the shrine of Sri Ekamreshwara  within the temple precincts and is being worshipped for centuries too.

*2 Sacchidanda- is a compound of three words सत्  (sanskrit meaning- to be or the Truth), चित्(sanskrit meaning- Consciousness) , आनन्दं (sanskrit meaning- Eternal Bliss). These are the three attributes of the eternal Parabrahmam as per the Advaita philosophy

*3 Saamrajya- the kingdom here refers to the Moksha Samrajya or the kingdom obtained on relief from the cycle of birth and death (Mukti). Samrajya here can also be seen as attainment of self-realisation/ or attainment of the Supreme Brahman. Dikshithar says that the lotus feet of Sri Somaskanda, who is the the embodiment of Eternal Truth, Consciousness and Bliss, provides the kingdom of Mukti

The Sthala Puranam of the temple of Ekamreshwara-

*4 Prithvi Lingam- 

A mural representing the sthala puranam

Kanchipuram, hosts the temple of Lord of the mango tree (Ekamreshwara or Ekambareshwara, one of the Panchabhoota (Pancha=five and bhoota=elements) Sthalams and represents the element of earth or Prithvi. Once in Mt.Kailash, when Lord Shiva was engrossed in meditation on the creation, sustenance and dissolution of the universe, Parvati is said to have closed his eyes in playful attitude. This being a serious offence, stalling the functioning of the entire universe, she was cursed by Parameshwara to be born on the earth and expiate her sin through penance. Parvati, in order to secure the hand of Lord Shiva again, makes a linga out of the earth on the banks of the river Vegavathi (or Kampa), beneath a mango tree and worships him. In order to test her devotion, Lord Shiva sends many an obstacle in her path, which she overcomes with the help of Lord Vishnu, her brother. Finally, Lord Shiva sends a flood on the river, threatening to wash away the mud-linga that Parvati was worshipping. In order to prevent the wash-out, Parvati is seen embracing the linga. Overwhelmed by her devotion, Lord Shiva marries Parvati or Kamakshi. 

Lord Ekamreshwara and Kamakshi in their bridal attire,
found in the temple of Ekambareshwara

One can find Lord Ekamreshwara and Goddess Kamakshi in their bridal attire in this shrine. Also, the ancient mango tree, beneath which, the Prithvi lingam was consecrated by the very hands of Goddess Kamakshi is still found in this temple. This tree, has four branches, representing the four vedas and bears four different kinds of mango fuits in four different seasons.

Since the linga in this temple is made out of earth, its covered by metal-like sheaths and abhishekam similar to other Shiva temples is not performed here.

An Insight into the Composition

*5 Guruguha- is the mudra of Dikshithar and the word is found in all of Dikshithar's compositions. Dikshithar has exemplified his expertise in Sanskrit by using the mudra in appropriate context in the composition. 

A portrait of Sri Muthuswami Dikshithar

Guruguha, refers to Lord Muruga, who is supposed to be the guru of Dikshithar. Since Lord Muruga is seen as an amsha of Lord Shiva, Dikshithar mentions that Ekamreshwara is the inner self of Lord Muruga. It is to be noted that Kanchipuram also has an important shrine dedicated to Lord Muruga, called Kumara Kottam, in the vicinity of the shrine of Ekamreshwara.

One another instance where Dikshithar has shown his command over the Sanskrit language  in this composition, is by employing alankarams (figures of speech)  like Alliteration (Anupraasa in Sanskrit) as in-

 "maakanda moola kandam"... "maankandam" meaning "mango tree" and "moola kandam" roughly translating to "the linga in the base", with the sounds "kandam" repeating twice but with different meanings.

It is to be noted Dikshithar has incorporated the name of the raga of this composition within the phrase, "the beloved of Bhairavi", typical of his style.

Yet again, singing this composition is enough to transport one to Kanchipuram, without having to visit the shrine of Ekamreshwara in person and that's Dikshithar for you!!

Legends of the Goddess-8

The story that we had started off in part-2 of this series, did come to a conclusion in the last post. But, if one tries to understand the grace that Goddess Lalitha showers on her devotees, well, thousand such blog posts would not suffice.



She is the one constant factor in your life, even if you have prayed to her once. Her subtle presence can be felt only if you trust that she is actually taking care of you. The best things in life happen to you, without your knowledge or effort. Mere sharanaagati to her, changes your fate. She is the only supreme force, who is willing to give you freedom from samsaara and take you unto Her. Just as Adi Shankara Bhagavatpada says in Soundarya Lahari:

Tvat Anya: Paanibhyaam abhaya varado deivata gana:
Others different from you, all the other deities, show the abhaya (fearlessness) gesture and the varada (boon-bestowing) gestures with their hands
Tvam ekaa na evaa asi prakatitha vara abheetyabhinayaa
You alone are not like this- indicating the abhaya and the varada gestures
Bhayaat traatum daatum phalam api cha vaanchaasamadhikam
(because) To save me from Fear (of all things, including samsaara and death) and to bestow me with boons, more than those that I require
Charanye lokaanaam, tava hi charanaaveva nipunou
Oh Shelter of the entire Universe, your two feet alone are capable

She took various forms to bring relief to all those who seeked her and destroyed their source of dejection. The stories just point out that She is waiting to receive you into Her arms, its just that we have forgotten seeking her.

Surrender unto Her and have all the faith in your heart that She always stands by you-even if you do not realise it. Behold the dirt in your mind getting washed away and see for yourself, the transformations She brings in you.

You really don't have to perform complex rituals, rites and whatnots. But make sure, you place true Bhakti towards Her- that will be your Saviour forever.

Legends of the Goddess-7

The War Begins

Lalita Devi then set out to vanquish the army of Bhandasura

She rode the SriChakra Ratha , holding a noose, a spear, a bow made of sugarcane and five flowery arrows. From her spear (Ankusha) appeared a Goddess named Sampatkari Devi .

Sampatkaree Samaaroodha Sindhura Vraja Sevita

She was of the brilliance of a thousand suns, and wearing a shining armour and carrying a pwerful sword, she rode the huge elephant called Ranakolaahala. Sampatkari Devi and her army of huge elephants followed the chariot of Sri Lalita Devi.

From the noose (Paasha) of Sri Lalita Devi appeared the goddess named Ashwaaroodha Devi, along with an army of swift horses.

Ashwaaroodha Dhishtitaashva Koti Kotibhiraavrutaa

She shone like the rising sun and rode on a horse called Aparaajita. Ashwaaroodha Devi and her army started leading the chariot of Sri Lalita

Varahi, the commander-in-chief of the Shakti Sena, of bluish hue and boar-faced, followed Sri Lalitha on the "Kiri Chakra" ratha.

Kiri Chakra rathaaroodha Dandanaatha Puraskrutaa

From her umbrella appeared many shaktis, who were boar-faced. The chariot had five landings, and were protected by the boar-faced shaktis. They helped regulate the entire army. A smoke-coloured buffalo, capable of agitating the seven oceans is Sri Varahi's vahana, which marches behind the Kiri Chakra.

Goddess Raja Maatangi, the Mantrini (Prime Minister) of the Shakti Sena, radiant like the blue stone and holding a veena in her hands, rode in the "Geya chakra" chariot ahead of Sri Lalita. This chariot would make melodious music when it moved and had seven landings.

Geyachakra rathaaroodha mantrini parisevitaa

The Shaktis that emerged out of Sri Raja Maatangi were beautiful, played musical instruments and danced to the tunes and lead the army. An army consisting of one thousand akshouhinis (one Akshauhini consists of 21870 chariots, as many elephants, 65610 horses and 109350 soldiers on foot) followed Sri Mantrini.

Now, Sri Lalita Parameshwari ascended the Srichakra chariot and started to the battlefield.

Bhandaasura Vadhodyukta Shakti Senaa samanvitaa

She held a dazzling Ankusha, Pasha that looked like the king cobra,sugarcane-bow decorated with tinkling bells and five flower-arrows (Lotus, Asoka,Choota, Blue lotus and Jasmine) in her hands. Her body emitted a wondrous red glow that was thousand times brighter than that of the rising sun. A number of Shaktis and Gupta Yoginis protected the ten landing chariot of Sri Lalita.

Indra and several deities, appear on raised landings, next to the KiriChakra ratha to remind Lalita Parameshwari of their request and to facilitate the protection of the world.

Srichakra, Geya Chakra and Kiri Chakra chariots started moving together, as though the three worlds were on motion. The three looked like Meru, Mandara and Vindhya mountains. There was a tremendous uproar in the Shakti Sena. The earth trembled due to the force with which the three chariots moved. Srichakra chariot has six charioteers who are capable of holding the reins effectively. They are: Ira Devi, Tripura Bhairavi, Samhara Bhairava, Raktayoginivallabha, Saarasa and Chamunda. Geya Chakra chariot has Hasantika Shyamala Devi as the charioteer. Kiri Chakra chariot has Stambhini as the charioteer.

The Srichakra chariot has a height of ten Yojanas. Geya Chakra and Kiri Chakra are respectively seven and six yojanas in height. Only Srichakra chariot has a beautiful umbrella of pearls, which has a breadth of ten Yojanas. The other two chariots have ordinary umbrellas only. This umbrella of pearls is the symbol of royalty for the great kingdom of Shaktis. Thus, Sri Lalita Parameshwari, the supreme queen of all the Shaktis, proceeded to the battlefield to destroy the army of Bhandasura

Day One of the War-

The uproar of the Shakti Sena caused disturbance in the minds of the residents of the Shoonyaka pattana, the capital city of Bhandasura. They observed many bad omens. Observing this, the residents all flocked to Bhandasura.

Seated on a magnificent throne, Bhandasura served by his brothers, Vishukra and Vishanga called a council of all demons and discussed on how to tackle the emerging war. The demons advised Bhandasura that, even though a docile woman is proceeding for the war with them, they should never understimate the enemy and should deal with her with due attention. However, Bhandasura ridiculed Sri Lalita Devi and thought that she was delicate and powerless. He was of the opinion that a war would hold good only if its between two equals and so they shouldn't fear.

He ordered his commanders to station the army around the city, defeat Lalita Devi and drag her by her hair to his court. However, the great uproar of the Shakti Sena, caused distress to the demons' army.

 

Kutilaksha, the commander-in-chief of Bhandasura's army sent a demon named Durmada along with ten Akshauhinis of army to fight with Sridevi. Sounding war drums, Durmada approached Lalita Devi as if he would burn the three worlds. As per Bhandasura's orders, Kutilaksha made arrangements for the protection of the city of Shoonyaka.

He stationed a demon named Talajangha at the eastern entrance of the city,Talabhuja at the southern entrance, Talagriva at the western entrance and Talaketu at the northern entrance. An army of Ten Akshauhinis supported each of them. He also positioned ten Akshauhinis of army around the fort in a circular fashion. He thus stationed fifty Akshauhinis of army for the protection of the city and elaborated the

details to Bhandasura.

The Battle between Durmada and Sampatkari Devi

In the battlefield, seeing the attack of ten Akshauhinis of army under the leadership of Durmada, Sri

Sampatkari Devi jumped into the battlefield. The Shaktis started killing the demons on a massive scale and the battlefield was filled with the blood of the demons.

Unable to bear the blows of Sampatkari and her Shaktis, the demons began to scream “O I was hit! I am fainting!” etc. Durmada consoled his men and began to lead them back to the battlefield, riding on a camel. The camel that he was riding had a long neck and it rushed forward very quickly. Rejuvenated by this, the demons, holding weapons that resembled hissing snakes, followed Durmada. Durmada showered weapons on the Shakti Sena. It seemed as though the army of Shaktis was immobilized for a moment by this attack. However, Sampatkari herself decided to fight with Durmada and entered the scene riding on her elephant Ranakolahala. Sampatkari and Durmada began to fight one-to-one with each other Durmada struck an arrow at Sri Sampatkari Devi and was able to destroy one gem from her crown. Greatly annoyed, Sri Sampatkari Devi shot several arrows at him, which pierced his heart and killed him. The Shakti Sena began to make sounds of rejoice and began to slaughter the remaining demons. Unable to bear the strength of the Shaktis, the remaining demons fled back to their city of Shoonyaka.

The Slaying of Kurunda by Ashwaaroodha Devi

Hearing the news of Durmada's death, Bhandasura was extremely angry. He commanded another demon named Kurunda to leave for the battlefield and bring to him "the helpless ,wicked woman dragging her hair". Kurunda, the elder brother of Durmada, left for the battlefield with twenty

Akshauhinis of army. He was an expert in creating illusions and magical warfare. He started encouraging his army to destroy the Shakti Sena. To get rid of him, Sri Sampatkari rushed forward with her army. At that moment, Ashwaaroodhaa Devi came forward with great enthusiasm and requested to be given a chance to fight Kurunda. Sampatkari acknowledged the request with a smile and moved back with her army. Along with Sri Ashwaaroodhaa Devi, innumerable Shaktis, riding on speedy horses, rushed forward to fight with the demons.

As the Shaktis began to fight with the demons, Ashwaaroodhaa Devi started chasing Kurunda on her horse named Aparajita. She had long plaited hair and seemed like the beautiful Autumn moon . Holding a bow decorated with precious gems, she stared shooting arrows at Kurunda. These arrows covered him in all the directions.

Angry with her, Kurunda also stared shooting arrows at Sri Ashwaaroodhaa Devi. Aparajita, the powerful horse, started killing many demons by striking them with its hooves. It made terrible sounds that resulted in the fainting of several segments of Kurunda's army.

Sri Ashwaaroodhaa Devi used her Pasha on the army of demons. From her pasha, several fiery Pashas, resembling snakes emerged. They bound the army of demons and made them unconscious. Kurunda became wild at this and with a single arrow, destroyed the bow of Sri Ashwaaroodhaa Devi. Filled with anger, she used her Ankusha on his heart. That mighty weapon drained all his blood and killed him.

He collapsed to the ground like a tree stuck with Indra's Vajra. Many Putanas (a class of beings like the Dakinis who drink blood and eat flesh of corpses on the battleground) emerged from the Ankusha and began to swallow the unconscious demons. After their job was done, they vanished.

After the death of Kurunda, the leader of twenty Akshauhinis of army, the remaining demons fled back to their city. When this news reached Bhandasura, he sighed like a snake.

The battle between the Five Commanders and Sri Nakuleshwari Devi

After the death of Kurunda, Bhandasura ordered Kutilaksha to send their five chief commanders with 500 Akshauhinis of army.

Karanka and the other commanders created a great magical serpent called 'Ranashambari'. She had a smoke-colored body and a large belly that resembled a deep ocean. The serpent started walking around in the battlefield causing terror to the Shaktis.

Encouraged by the five commanders, she started creating innumerable snakes from her body.

All the snakes were spitting deadly poison at the Shaktis. They were biting the Shaktis and burning them with poisonous flames. They were also binding them and thrashing them. The Shaktis were killing hundreds of snakes continuously. But by the time they killed one snake, countless new snakes would have already taken birth from Ranashambari.

Since she was alive, there was no end to the birth of snakes. Greatly tormented by these snakes, the Shakti Sena became directionless.

Taking advantage of this situation, Karanka and the other commanders began to show their valor. Karanka was seated on a chariot driven by hundred donkeys. He began to shoot arrows at the Shakti Sena continuously. Kakavasita, riding on a elephant, began to use a discus on the Shaktis.Vajradanta, seated on a huge camel, began to shoot diamond-arrows at the Shakti Sena.Vajramukha, seated in a large chariot, began to hit the Shaktis with a barbed dart.Vajraloma, seated on a chariot driven by two vulures, shot arrows at the Shaktis. As per the orders of the five commanders, the hundred Akshauhini army jumped on the Shaktis, all at once. The serpent sorceress continued creating crores of snakes every second.

Seeing the perturbed Shakti Sena, Sri Nakuleswari, mounted on a Garuda, jumped into the battlefield.

Sri Nakuleswari, who originated from the palate of Sri Lalita Parameshwari, has a golden complexion. She is the very personification of the entire Vangmaya (speech or knowledge).

She drove her army towards the demons. Her vehicle Garuda had huge shoulders and when he moved, it seemed as though Mount Sumeru was in motion. Seeing the snakes generated by Sarpini, she angrily opened her mouth wide. From her thirty-two teeth, thirty-two crore mongooses took birth. They all had bodies with golden complexion. They stared moving about in the battlefield and began to bite the snakes into pieces.

Seeing the death of all her snakes, Sarpini began to fight with Nakuleswari angrily. Sri Nakuleswari shot Sarpini with Garudastra. This blazing weapon entered the serpent's body and dried up all her magical powers. Once she lost her powers, she was destroyed.

The five commanders were filled with anger because Nakuleswari had destroyed the magical serpent.

They began to shower arrows on her and to kill the mongooses. The mongooses bit the ears, noses and the rear parts of the demons. 

Seeing this, Karanka began to fight with increased vigor. He began to attack the army of mongooses with sharp arrows. The five commanders shot fiery arrows at the mongooses. With wounded bodies, the mongooses assembled around Sri Nakuleswari.

Then Sri Nakuli Saraswati shot a great arrow called 'Akshina Nakula'. From this arrow, crores of mongooses with diamond-like bodies, hair and teeth emerged. They had diamond-like strong tails and nails. With the exception of the five commanders, the mongooses destroyed the entire army of hundred Akshauhinis. Filled with both fear and anger, they fought ferociously with Nakuleswari. She ascended her vehicle Garuda and flying over the demons, chopped off Karanka's head with Pattasa. She also chopped off the heads of the other four commanders with her sword.

Seeing the heroism of Nakuleswari, Sri Rajashyamala Devi was extremely pleased. She granted the prestigious status of being her 'Anga Devata' to Sri Nakuleswari. The few remaining demons fled

back to Shoonyaka and reported the news of their defeat to Bhandasura.

The battle between the seven sons of Keekasaa and Sri Tiraskarini Devi

The sons of Keekasaa, seven in number, named : Balahaka, Suchimukha, Phalamukha, Vikarna, Vikatanana, Karalaksha and Karataka, took permission from Bhandasura and left for the battle field along with an army of 300 Akshauhini. They had obtained a boon from Lord Surya, as a result of which, they could get the power of the sun to enter their eyes when they desired. As a result of this, the Shakti Sena was blinded by the power of the sun in the commanders' eyes and starting facing the onslaught.

Seeing this, Sri Tiraskarini Devi, the body guard of Sri Varahi mounted a plane named "Tamolipta", aimed an arrow named "Andhaka" at these demons and blinded them. As a result, the Shakti Sena regained their valour and fought the demons' army inspired by the Shaktis, she approached Balahaka and chopped off his head with her sword. After chopping off the wings of his vulture, she chopped off the head of Suchimukha with Pattasa. She also killed the other five commanders with sharp arrows. She made a garland of their heads and wore it around her neck. She began to dance in ecstasy in the battlefield.

The Shakti Sena destroyed the demons in no time. The remaining demons fled back to their city, screaming loudly.

With this blow Bhandasura lost his senses. He called upon his two brothers for a discussion.

The battle between Bhandasura's Brothers and the Shakti Sena

In the war council it was decided that Vishanga would attack Devi’s army from its rear in a treacherous way . This decision was taken because they got information from their spies that Lalita devi that there were less members of the army at the rear end and it was easier for them to approach Lalita devi directly and attack her.

At dusk, Vishanga with a small army proceeded to the rear of Lalita devi’s army noiselessly without any drums. By then Lalita devi’s army was moving westward. Vishanga along with his army moved north wards and then turned to reach eastern side.

He was able to see Srichakraraja chariot very near to him. Lalita devi was looking towards the front observing the movement of the Shakti Sena. Taking this opportunity Vishanga attacked devi’s chariot from the rear, all of a sudden.

Anima and the other goddesses who were present in the landings of the Sri Chakra Ratha were taken aback at this sudden attack but quickly recovered themselves and prepared for a counter fight. Exactly at the same time Kutilaksha along with ten akshauhini army attacked from the front side

Struck by an arrow from Vishanga, the fan present in Lalita devi’s hand fell down and broke. Seeing this Tithinitya devatas got very angry. They went and requested Lalita devi that Vahnivasini and Jwalamalini ( who were part of the tithi nitya devas )who can self-illuminate, if they could glow so that the demons who are in the dark will all become visible.

With the permission of Lalita devi, Vahnivasini and Jwalamalini devis started glowing like fireballs. All the demons who were hiding in darkness now became visible. Now the 16 nitya devi’s became outrageous and attacked Vishanga’s army. All the commanders in the Vishanga's army died.

Wounded all over the body Vishanga fled for his life shamelessly. Even Kutilaksha who attacked from the front also fled.

Lalita sahasranama says:- nityaa paraakrama atopa nireekshana samathsukha

Mantrini Devi and Dandanatha (Varahi) Devi felt unhappy about this unprecedented attack in the night They felt very sorry that their arrangements for protection failed.

Day Two of the war-

Agni Prakara- The Compound wall of fire

At the instance of Lalita devi,Jwalamalini devi made a compound wall of fire around the Shakti Sena. The fire wall was 100 yojana wide and 30 yojana tall. (1 yojana is approximately equal to 8 miles).

At the southern end of fire wall was a 1 yojana wide entry, to enable the Shakti Sena to go out and fight because Shoonyaka Pattanam faced this end.

Lalita sahasranama says—jwaalaamaalini kaakshipta vahnipraakaara madhyagaa

Stambhini devi, who was a part of the army of Sri Varahi, along with 20 akshauhini Sena protected this entry point. Hence she was also called Vighna devi. By then it was dawn.

Knowing all this, Bhandasura was in despair and started planning his next course of action

Now he sent all his 30 sons to the warfield. After listening to this news Lalita devi’s daughter, Bala Parameshwari wanted to fight these demons herself.

Bala, the daughter of Sri Lalita ,resembled Lalita devi thoroughly but was always 9 years old .She stays permanently with her mother .

Bala Parameshwari, approached her mother and requested for permission to fight in the battlefield. At the outset Lalita devi denied but looking at the courage and will power exhibited by Bala ,she ultimately gave permission.

Seeing Bala march, Mantrini and Dandanayaka were astonished , and they stood as her body guards.

Now Bala fought ferociously with Bhanda’s sons. Bala Parameshwari fought for the entire second day of the war. That evening she shot 30 arrows at a time and killed the 30 sons of Bhanda.

Sri Lalita devi was very happy at this display of valour and she embraced her daughter

Lalita sahasranama says--- Bhandaputra vadhodyukta baalaa vikrama nandita

Bhanda was grief stricken. Desperately he himself started off for the war.

Vighnayantra Nashanam (Destruction of the mystic symbol of obstacles)

Now Bhanda sent Vishukra to the warfront.In the darkness, Vishukra approached the Vahniprakara (firewall) and on a flat stone, drew a mystic symbol and performed on it, black magic.

He then threw that mystic symbol with a lot of force It penetrated the firewall . Because of the yantra, laziness crept into the minds of the Shakti Sena. Some started arguing that war itself was wrong., while some forgot the purpose of the battle . Some started questioning the supremacy of Sri Lalita and wondered if they can decline to fight with her. All of them fell into a deep sleep of ingnorance

After midnight Vishukra along with 30 akshohini sena surrounded the fire wall. Even then, none of the Shakti Sena moved under the influence of the ignorance caused by the Vighna yantra.

However, Mantrini and Dandanatha were not affected by the Vighnayantra .Worried about the sad state of the Shakti Sena, they consulted Sri Lalita on what needed to be done

Sri Lalita devi looked at her consort, Kameshwara’s face and passed a gentle smile.From her smile Ganapathi took birth.He immediately ordered a search in the firewall and noticed the ‘Vighnayantra Shila’ . He broke the Shila into powder with his tooth.

Lalita Sahasra Nama says-kaameshwaramukhaaloka kalpita sri ganeshwara

Mahaaganesha nirbhinna vighnayantra praharshita

With that , the Shakti Sena’s ignorance and sleep was dispelled, and they immediately got ready for the war. Now Vighneshwara along with this army came out of the fire barrier and fought with Vishukra.

Vishukra sent Gajasura to attack him but soon Gajasura was slayed. Seeing this Vishukra ran away.

The Third day of the War

Annihilation of Vishukra and Vishanga

After discussing with Bhandasura, Vishukra came back to war, along with his brother Vishanga and son- in –law.

Mantrini and Dandanatha both fought simultaneously. In the front of the army was Dandanatha devi mounted on her kirichakra ratha with her plough (halaayudha) . Behind her was Mantrini devi mounted on Geyachakra ratha with bow and arrows.

Dandanatha devi attacked Vishunga. Mantrini devi confronted Vishukra. Ashwarudha, Sampatkari and others attacked the son- in-law of the demons who had come . The army of the demons started slackening. Noticing this Vishukra discharged Trushnaastram( a weapon which produces thirst). The Shakti Sena experienced intense thirst at one.Then Dandanatha drew the god named,Madyasamudra’(=ocean of liquor) from her Kirichakra and quenched their thirst.

The Madyasamudra deva showered liquor rains. With that, the army quenched their thirst and rejuvenated.

By sunset most of the demons including Bhanda’s son-in-law were killed. Shyamala devi (Mantrini) fought with Vishukra and killed him with ‘Brahmashironamakastra’ (a powerful weapon named Brahmashira). Dandanatha devi (Potrini) killed Vishanga with her plough and pestle.

However in Lalita sahasranama it is mentioned that Vishukra was killed by Varahi

and Vishanga was killed by Mantrini—

Mantrinyambaa virachita vishanga vadha toshita

Vishukra praana harana vaaraahi veerya nandita

By then it was past midnight.

The Slaying of Bhandasura

Only Kutilaksha was left over to console Bhandasura. Bhanda along with Kutilaksha started towards the battlefield. 2185 akshauhini of army along with 40 commanders followed him. He boarded a chariot named ‘Aabhilamu’(meaning, dreadful).It was dragged by 1000 lions B).He held the sword named Yatana (meaning, torture in hell)

Noticing this Lalita devi mounted on the Srichakra Raja ratha, moved towards the warfront. Behind her was Mantrini in Geyachakra ratha, followed by Potrini in kirichakra ratha.Other shaktis followed her in crores.

In the usage of sastra’s (mystic weapons) and pratyastra (corresponding neutralising weapons), both sides were equal

Bhandaa surendra nirmukta shastra- pratyastra varshini

Now Bandasura by his mystical powers regenerated Madhu-kaitabha, Mahishasura, Raktabija,Chanda-Munda, Shumbha and Nishumbha. Then Lalita devi made a violent frenzied laughter –Chandika Parameshwari and other deities who earlier slayed these demons were reborn and slayed them again.

Now Bhanda generated Somaka and other demons. Lalita devi now generated the 10 incarnations of Vishnu from the finger tips of her hands

Karaanguli nakhotpanna naarayana dasakruti:

The Sun was about to set. Lalita devi decided not to delay any more. She then discharged Narayanastra and Pashupata astra and destroyed the demons and their commanders . They were all turned down into ashes

Mahaapaashupataastraagni nirdagdhaasura sainyaka

Now Bhandasura was the only asura left. Lalita devi discharged the Mahakameshawarastra and annihilated Bhandasura .Immediately the shoonyaka town got burnt down.

Kameshwaraastra nirdagdha sabhandasura shoonyaka

The Gods were overjoyed, they proclaimed the victory of Sri Lalita on the drums . They showered flowers,lighted camphor blazes and shouted victory.

 Brahmopendra Mahendraadi deva samstuta vaibhavaa

Bibliography: Advaita Brahmavidya Pratishthana, Bangalore - Copy Right

The Legends of the Goddess-6

Lalita Parameshwari pleased with the hymn offered to grant a boon to Indra. Indra requested her to defeat Bhandasura

She also said:

Ye stuvanti cha maam Bhaktya Stavenaanena Maanavaa:

Bhaanjanam te bhavishyanti Dharma-Shree-Yashasaam Sadaa

Vidyaa-vinaya sampanna Neerogaa Dheergha-jeevana:

Putra-mitra-kalathraadhya Bhavantu Madanugrahaat

All those men, who shall praise me with this beautiful hymn (named 'Lalitaa Stava Raaja'), shall obtain dharma, wealth and fame constantly. They will obtain qualities like humility, knowledge, health, progeny and longevity.

Kaameshwara marries Sri Lalitaa

Brahma, the creator of the world, along with all the sages, came to visit Sridevi and have her Darshan. Vishnu, on his vehicle Garuda and Lord Shiva on his bull Nandi, came to see the supreme queen of the universe. Narada and the other celestial sages, groups of celestial damsels, Vishwavasu and other Gandharvas (celestial musicians) and Yakshas (a class of demi-gods) also arrived to have a Darshan of Lalita Mahatripurasundari. As per the orders of Brahma, Vishwakarma, the celestial sculptor, constructed a beautiful city for the residence of Sridevi. Then, goddess Durga, the mistress of all Mantras arrived to see Sri Lalita, along with Sri Shyamala, the goddess of learning. The other deities who came to have a Darshan of Sri Lalita Mahatripurasundari included the seven Matrika goddesses (Brahmi, Maheshwari, Kaumari, Vaishnavi, Varahi, Mahendri and Chamunda), the eight great accomplishments or Siddhis (Animaa, Laghimaa, Mahimaa, Garimaa, Ishitaa, Vashitaa, Prapti and Prakamyaa), crores of Bhairavas, Kshetrapalas, Yoginis, Mahaashaastaa (the leader of Bhoota Ganas), Mahaganesha, Kartikeya, Vatuka Bhairava and Veerabhadra. They prostrated at the lotus feet of the supreme goddess and praised Her in various ways.

That Devipura (city of the great goddess) began to look supremely beautiful, filled with towers, arched doorways, walls, stables of elephants and horses, high ways and houses of  subordinates, ministers, soldiers, Brahmanas, minstrels, maids and others. In the middle of the city was a royal palace, which was decorated with doors and towers. It had a number of rooms and assembly halls. In the center of the main assembly hall, which was studded with the nine gems, there was a throne made of Chinatamani gems (gems that are

credited to have the power to grant all that one desires). This throne emitted its own light and was glorious like the rising sun. It was the only one of its kind. Looking at this luxury, Brahma thought, “Oh! A person, who sits on this throne, even if foolish, shall become the ruler of the entire universe by virtue of this throne. A lady or a man, are not eligible to rule a country alone. They have to rule a country together. The Smriti says that a gentleman with righteous behavior, accompanied by a virtuous wife, should be made the king of a nation. This great goddess shines like the very embodiment of romance. There can be no better match for her in all the three worlds, other than Lord Shiva.However, Shiva has long matted locks, has a distorted eye, holds a skull, is dirty, has an ash-smeared body, resides in the crematorium and looks terrible. Will this lady, who seems to be the very personification of auspiciousness, ever wed Shiva, who looks so inauspicious?”

As Brahma was thinking so, Lord Shankara appeared in front of him in the form of Sri Kaameshwara. He had the beauty of crores of cupids and had a divine physique. He wore heavenly garments, wore garlands of flowers and had a body that was anointed with fragrant sandal paste. He was decorated with a crown, necklace, bracelet, earrings and many other ornaments. His beautiful form was capable of enchanting the entire world. Brahma at once embraced this young man and named him 'Kaameshwara'. Then Brahma

decided that Kaameshwara was the perfect match for Sri Lalita and went to see her, along with Kaameshwara. Brahma, Vishnu and Rudra praised Sri Lalita by means of a hymn. As soon as Kaameshwara saw the deer-eyed Lalita, he immediately fell in love with her. The supremely beautiful goddess saw Kaameshwara, who had the beauty of crores of cupids, fell in love with him and decided that he was the perfect match for her. Sri Lalita and Sri Kaameshwara (who are the knowers of all emotional specialties, who have conquered the senses and whose ways are not understandable by the rest) were immersed in looking at each other, for a moment. Then Brahma addressed Sridevi thus, “O great Devi! All these celestials, sages and damsels wish to see you seated on this throne, along with your spouse. Who is that blessed man, suitable to be your husband? For the sake of protecting the worlds, please wed such a gentleman”.

Having heard Brahma's words, Sri Lalita Parameshwari addressed Brahma, Vishnu and the others with a smiling face as follows:

“O celestials, I always want to be free and independent. I act as per my sweet will. One

who has similar attributes is suitable to be my spouse”.

Brahma then said, “O great goddess! Marriage between a lady and a man can be of four types: Kalakrita, Krayakrita, Pitrudatta and Swayamyuta. The first two respectively refer to a prostitute and a maidservant. A lady, who is duly given in marriage to a suitable man, by her own father, is called 'Bharya'. A lady who chooses her own husband by means of 'Gaandharva' rites is called Swayamyuta. She is on the same standing as Pitrudatta. O Parameshwari! From that great Parabrahman, which is free from duality and which is the beyond the states of existence and non-existence and which is of the form of the bliss of pure consciousness, from that Brahman- Prakriti, the primordial nature originated. O Devi, you are both Parabrahman and Prakriti. You are without a beginning, and you are everything. Sanaka and the other great Yogis are forever in search of you. It is you who is perceived as both good and evil deeds. Everyone praises you who are the embodiment of the five Brahmas. O Maheshwari, in the beginning, you create the entire universe in just a second. It is you who protects the creation. Later, you dissolve the same. Hence, by wedding a suitable man, your independence can never be affected. At least to shower your benevolence on

this universe, please wed a suitable person”.

Thus requested by Brahma and the other celestials, Sri Lalita Parameshwari picked a garland from her hand and threw it into the sky. It landed around the neck of Sri Kaameshwara. 

This caused a great delight to Brahma, Vishnu and the other Devas. Inspired by Indra, the clouds showered flowers on Sridevi and Sri Kaameshwara. Then Brahma addressed Sri Narayana thus, “O Lord! You have to perform the wedding ceremony of Sridevi with Sri Kaameshwara. This muhurtha is auspicious to the entire world. This great goddess is having your own form. You were born with her (you are her brother). Hence, you are eligible to give her hand in wedding to Sri Kaameshwara”.

Lord Sri Mahavishnu heard Brahma's words and acted accordingly, by performing the wedding

of Sridevi and Sri Kaameshwara, as per the prescribed ceremonial rites. During that time, Brahma and the other celestials offered various gifts to the newly wedded couple.Brahma gave a sugarcane-bow, which was indestructible as the diamond. Then Narayana offered arrows of flowers, which were forever fresh. Varuna gave a Naga Pasha (a serpent noose) and Vishwakarma (the head of the business class) a hook. Agni gifted a crown, the sun and the moon gave earrings and the Lord of the ocean gave an ornament studded with the nine gems. Indra, the Lord of the celestials gifted a bowl of wine that was ever filled. Kubera gifted a necklace made of Chintamani gems. Then Sri Narayana, the Lord of Sri Mahalakshmi, gifted an umbrella, a symbol of kinghood. Rivers Ganga and Yamuna offered fans, which were shining like the moon. Brahma, the eight Vasus, the twelve suns, Ashwini twins, the guardians of the eight quarters, seven wind-gods, Sadhyas, all of them offered their weapons to Sridevi. They also offered chariots with horses that were extremely speedy, strong and healthy.

The Pattaabhisheka of Kaameshwara and Kaameshwari

Then, the celestials performed the crowning ceremony of Sri Kaameshwari and Sri Kaameshwara, by seating them on the divine throne. During this auspicious occasion, Brahma presented a Vimaana called 'Kusumakara' to the divine couple. This was decorated with flowers that were ever fresh. This Vimana was indestructible by weapons of any kind. It had the power to move freely on the land and in the skies. By merely smelling the scent of this Vimaana, delusion, hunger, thirst and other diseases would be completely eliminated. The divine couple, seated in this glorious Vimaana, which was decorated with fans, pillars and umbrellas, went on a procession in the royal highway, accompanied by all the celestials. This was accompanied by the music of various instruments like the Veena, flute and Mridanga. The celestial damsels and Sumangalis, who were standing in front of each house in that street, held flowers and Laaja Akshata in

their hands and showered them on the divine couple, as the procession passed in front of their house. All the citizens of that celestial city praised the divine couple with auspicious songs and the music of Veena, flute and other instruments. Kameshwari and Sri Kaameshwara, enjoying this fanfare and welcome in each of the streets of that city, proceeded slowly, feeling pleased and happy. They accepted Aarati from the divine

damsels in front of every house and then arrived at their magnificent palace. They got down from the Vimaana and entered the courtroom. Sri Lalita Mahaatripurasundari, who is all knowing and revered by all, seated on the divine throne with Kaameshwara, granted the desires of all her courtiers by a mere graceful sight. Observing this wonderful act of Sridevi, creator Brahma offered Her the titles: Kamakshi and Kaameshwari.

According to the orders of Sridevi, the clouds showered rain at the appropriate times and also showered

valuable things like ornaments. Chintamani, Kalpavriksha, Kamadhenu and Sri Lakshmi resided in every house in that Devi Pura. Brahma, Vishnu, Rudra, Indra, the guardians of the eight directions, the celestials, Narada and the other celestial Rishis, Sanaka, Sanandana and the other Brahma Rishis, Yogis, Maharshis, Manus, Gandharvas, Apsaras, Vasishta and other sages, Yakshas and all the other divine beings, belonging to both the heavens and the earth, gave up all their other occupations and began to reside in that city, filled with the only desire to serve the divine mother.

Bibliography: Advaita Brahmavidya Pratishthana, Bangalore: Copy of Lalitopakhyana

Legends of the Goddess-5

The Emergence of Lalita Mahatripurasundari

All the Devas, including Brahma, unable to bear the torment of Bhandasura, approached Lord Narayana. He observed the weak condition of the Devas and said, “Your present condition is due to the invisible foul play of Bhandasura. Even I have lost the affinity for Goddess Lakshmi. What to say about other lesser beings? Myself, Brahma and Rudra are Karana Purushas (causal beings for the manifest creation). Even then, because we are also inhabiting this creation, even we cannot escape the torture of Bhandasura. There is however one Almighty God who is beyond this manifest Brahmanda. He is called Maha Shambhu and he is a manifestation of the supreme Parabrahman - Kameshwara.Parashakti is constantly in His Company. He is devoid of form. He is not dependent on anything. He has no modifications. He is greater than the greatest. He is the ultimate. He is not influenced by the foul play of Bhandasura, who is born from the ashes of Manmatha. He can rescue us from our difficulties. Therefore, let us all take refuge in Him and praise Him. Follow me”. So saying, Sri Hari led all the Devas to the brim of the Brahmanda (Universe).

There was a huge wall like fence there. The Devas summoned the celestial elephants to break the wall. After toiling continuously for one year, a breach was formed in the wall. After passing through the breach, they saw Chinmaya Akasha, which was Niralamba(independent), Nirajnana (untainted) and which was devoid of the five elements. They all stood in that Chinmaya Akasha and sang the glory of Maha Shambhu, who was of the form of Chidakasha. Then Maha Shambhu appeared before them. He was dark like clouds. He had two hands. He was holding a Shoola (spear) in one hand and a Kapala (skull) in the other. He had three eyes. Parashakti also appeared before them. She was holding Aksha Mala (rosary of beads) and Pustaka (book) in Her hands. She was bright and cool like the moon. The Devas prayed to Maha Shambhu to teach them the method of Mahayaga to appease Lalita Mahatripurasundari. As per their request, Maha Shambhu

explained, “ O Devas! In this Maha Yaga (great fire sacrifice), I am (assuming the form of Vayu) the Hota (the priest who makes the offerings in a Homa). My Chidagni (the fire of consciousness) itself is the fire in this Yagna. The last of the seven seas, i.e., Jala Samudra (Water Sea) has now dried up. The huge pit so formed itself is the Homa Kunda (fire pit where Homa is performed). The remaining six great oceans constitute the six drops of ghee, which is used as offering. Srishti (creation) is of five types (i) Manasa Srishti (creation by the power of the mind or will - this refers to the creation of the higher beings like the Devas and Rishis) (ii) Jarayavee Srishti (creation-taking place through the womb. E.g. Human beings), (iii) Anda Srishti (creation taking place through eggs) (iv) Swedaja Srishti (creation taking place through sweat) and (v)Udbhijja Srishti (creation taking place by sprouting). These five Srishtis (creations) are the sacrifice animals in this Maha Yaga. Bhoomi (land), Parvata (mountains), Jala (water), Vayu (air) and Akasha (space) - these five are the substances used in this fire sacrifice. At the end of this great fire sacrifice, all of you (the performers of the Yaga) should jump in to the Homa Kunda (fire pit). While doing so, you must possess absolute devotion. Then, Lalita Parameshwari will manifest. She will be seated in a chariot called Chakra Raja Ratha. She will create Parabrahma in the name of Kameshwara and will have Him as Her consort. This couple will re-create the entire universe, which will turn out to be more beautiful than the previous creation. Lalita Parameshwari will bring Manmatha back to life. N. She will create four weapons, namely (i) Ikshu Dhanus - a bow of sugarcane (ii) five Pushpa Banas - flower arrows (iii) Paasha - noose and (iv) Ankusha (a hook, especially an elephant driver's hook). With the help of these weapons, she will destroy Bhandasura and bring Manmatha back to life”.

 At the beginning of this great sacrifice,Maha Shambhunatha, accompanied by Parashakti, started chanting the Lalita Mahamantra and entered the Universe in the form of the seven-layered Vayu (air). Parashakti assumed the form of His Kriya Shakti (energy of action). With the help of Kriya Shakti, Vayu blew the Jala Samudra with all his energy. The Jala Samudra (water ocean) became totally dry. In the pit thus formed, He kindled the Chidagni with the help of fire emanating from his third eye. This Agni raged from the Patala (a region in the nether-world) to the Brahma Loka. He decorated the periphery of the Homa Kunda with

the stars just as one decorates a sacrificial fire pit with flowers. After this, he performed the Yaga as ordained by the Vedas. He used the Pralaya Meghas (clouds appearing during Pralaya), namely Pushkala and Aavartaka as Srik and Sruva (the two spoons which are used to offer ghee in fire worship). As the Homa progressed, the Chidagni emanating from it spread to a vast area. He then offered the first six oceans and then the five-fold creations to this Agni. In the end, the gods too decorated themselves and sat on the Srik and Sruva, ready to be offered to Agni. Maha Shambhunatha offered them to Agni. After this, Maha Shambhunatha discarded his Vayu form and assumed his real form. He then chanted 8 special mantras and performed 8 Homas.

At the end of the Homa, Lalita Devi came out of the Chidagni Homa Kunda, seated on a special chariot called “Chakra Raja Ratha”.

Chidagni kunda sambhootaa Deva Kaarya Samudyataa

Udyad-Bhaanu Sahasraabhaa, Chatur Baahu Samanvitaa

Raaga-swaroopa Paashaadhyaa, Krodhaakaaraankushojjwalaa

Manoroopekshu Kodandaa Panchatan-maatra saayakaa

 The Sri Chakra Raja Ratha had the following dimensions:

Width of four Yojanas, Height of ten Yojanas, nine Parvas (landings), the four Vedas for the wheels, the four-fold aims (Purusharthas) for the horses, absolute bliss as the flag. The seat at the topmost landing was the Bindu Peetha. The chariot was of the form of Meru Prastara. The material that was used to make the chariot was 'Tejas' (pure energy).

As soon as Lalita Devi emerged, Indra and the other celestials, prostrated before her and sung her praises, compiled into the Lalitaa-Stava-Raaja.