Showing posts with label Avatar. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Avatar. Show all posts

Saturday, May 3, 2025

Why is Hayagriva, the horse-faced avatar of Vishnu, not on the list of the 10 avatars of Vishnu?

 

  • Yes you are right, you don't find the Hayagriva avatar in the list of ten avatars of Lord Vishnu
  • Some authors include ten of their choice and ignore the rest. Earlier incarnations like Mohini, Hayagriva, dattatreya, kapila etc don't find a place in their top 10. The concept of “Dasavatara” are always author's choice.
  • Medieval times Saint or Guru Sri Vaadiraja has given high priority to Hayagriva avatar, the horse faced God. Horse faced lord is a symbol of primitive knowledge of Vedas. Vishnu has passed on the knowledge of Vedas to lord Brahma, through his horse face and also killed many demons in that avatar. There is no other reason than pure personal choice, that many authors have not included Hayagriva
  • Pic : Lord Hayagriva teaching Vedas to brahma.
  • Source: Google sources
  • Importance given to Hayagriva
  • Sri Vadiraja, of 1480-1600 AD, has given full importance to Hayagriva. He worshipped Hayagriva for his lifetime as his prime diety. He used to worship lord Hayagriva and offer naivedya or bhog to him. The lord Hayagriva used to accept naivedya in form of DIVINE HORSE. As the bhog or naivedya is to be offered with out looking at God's form, Vadiraja used to offer, keeping the platter on his head. The God used to take naivedya in horse form, resting it's feet on shoulders of Vadiraja. Watch the picture for Vaadiraja and hayagriva in the following.
  • Vadiraja wrote Hayagriva sampadaa stotram for devotees benefit of wealth creation. Many people have benefited by the chanting daily, 108 times
  • Sri Vadiraja, in fact dedicated all his writings to lord Hayagriva
  • It is really surprising to see that only a few saints have taken Hayagriva as prime diety. Several saints in South India of medieval era, had worshipped Hayagriva and acquired eternal bliss.
  • Sri Vadiraja in his dasavatara stuti, has praised the avatars or incarnations of Mohini, Hayagriva, Dhanwantari, Buddha etc. He praised 14 avatars or incarnations.
  • Some authors include Balarama, the elder brother of Lord Krishna. Bhakta jayadeva did so.
  • Narayana Kavachan from Maha Bhagavatam (7th skandha) include hailing Kapila, dattatreya, balarama, dhanwantari, buddha etc
  • Hail the glory of Lord hayagriva and stay blessed.
  • The most famous recital of Sri Raghavendra swamy stotram also has a special reference to lord Hayagriva. The lord “Haya” gives his consent to the greatness of his holiness Sri Raghavendra. It states lord Hayagriva will be the witness to derive and pass on the benefits of the stotram. Sri Raghavendra Swamy confirms saying that saakshi hayaasyotrahi.
  • Similarly, On Hayagriva sampadaa stotram, శ్రీ Vadiraja confirms at the end of 4th sloka that Sri hayagriva will remain witness to the results of the stotra.
  • Similarly, for Yantroddharaka Hanumath stotram, Sri Vyasaraja affirms that Sri Hayagriva will stand out as the evidence for granting the results of the stotram.
  • Lord Hayagriva stands out as the prime evidence on behalf of the devotees, to confirm the results and pass on the divine benefits to the devotees. Our job is very simple. Just Hail and recite the stotram, the rest, He, the Hayagriva will take care.
  • Worship Hayagriva and have a great time

Monday, April 21, 2025

Who is Pashupati and is he an Avatar of Shiva?

 Yes, Pashupati is a form of Lord Shiva. Pashupati means the five-faced shepherd of all creatures. Lord Shiva is also called Pashupatinath. According to Shiva Purana, many gods and demons had become animals, and Shiva freed them from animality, so he was named Pashupati.

Some more things related to Pashupati:

  • There is a temple of Lord Shiva in Nepal, which is called Pashupatinath Temple. This temple is on the banks of the Bagmati River in Devpatan village, 3 km north-west of Nepal's capital Kathmandu.
  • This temple is considered to be half of Kedarnath Dham, one of the 12 Jyotirlingas.
  • It is believed that Lord Shiva still resides in this temple.
  • The Pashupati seal is one of the thousands of seals found from the Indus Valley Civilization. It has a sitting and possibly three-headed figure, surrounded by animals

Tuesday, March 25, 2025

The Secret of the Shaligram Avatar of Lord Vishnu: A Detailed Analysis


Introduction

The Shaligram Shila is a sacred black stone that represents Lord Vishnu and is worshipped with great reverence in Hinduism. Found primarily in the Gandaki River of Nepal, Shaligrams are believed to be direct manifestations (Avatars) of Vishnu, containing his divine presence.

For centuries, Hindu devotees, sages, and priests have considered the worship of Shaligram to be one of the most powerful forms of Vishnu devotion. Unlike idols that are crafted by human hands, Shaligrams are naturally occurring, divine self-manifestations (Swayambhu).

This article will provide a detailed 2000-word analysis of the secrets and significance of the Shaligram Avatar of Lord Vishnu, covering:

  • The mythological origins of Shaligram.
  • The spiritual and scientific significance of these sacred stones.
  • The types of Shaligrams and their divine energies.
  • The proper way to worship a Shaligram.
  • The mystical powers and blessings associated with Shaligram worship.

1. The Mythological Origin of Shaligram: The Vishnu Avatar in Stone

The origin of Shaligram is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. One of the most famous stories is found in the Devi Bhagavata Purana and the Skanda Purana, which narrates how Shaligram became an eternal form of Lord Vishnu.

1.1 The Curse of Vrinda and the Birth of Shaligram

Vrinda, the devoted wife of the demon king Jalandhara, was an ardent devotee of Vishnu. Because of her unwavering chastity and devotion, her husband became invincible in battle. The gods, unable to defeat Jalandhara, sought Vishnu’s help.

To break Vrinda’s spiritual power, Vishnu disguised himself as her husband and tricked her into breaking her vow of chastity. When she realized the deception, she cursed Lord Vishnu, saying:

  1. "You will turn into a lifeless black stone (Shaligram) and be worshipped for eternity!"
  2. "Your consort, Goddess Lakshmi, will be turned into a Tulsi plant and only those who worship both of you together shall be blessed!"

Thus, Vishnu took the form of the sacred Shaligram stone, while Tulsi (the holy basil plant) became his eternal consort. This is why Shaligram Puja is always performed alongside Tulsi leaves, as a symbol of their divine union.

2. The Significance of Shaligram in Hindu Worship

2.1 Why is Shaligram Considered an Avatar of Vishnu?

  • Unlike human-made idols, Shaligrams are naturally formed, making them divine self-manifestations (Swayambhu).
  • Each Shaligram has sacred marks and symbols that resemble the emblems of Vishnu, such as the Chakra (discus), Shankha (conch), Gada (mace), and Padma (lotus).
  • They are eternally sacred and do not require Pran Pratishtha (ritual consecration).
  • Shaligram is considered the supreme form of Vishnu’s worship, bringing immense spiritual and material benefits.

3. The Types of Shaligrams and Their Spiritual Powers

Different types of Shaligrams have different energies and blessings. Their unique shapes and markings indicate which form of Vishnu they represent.

3.1 Common Types of Shaligrams and Their Meanings

Shaligram Type

Associated Vishnu Form

Blessings & Benefits

Chakra Shaligram

Vishnu’s Sudarshan Chakra Form

Protection, destruction of negativity.

Lakshmi Narayan Shaligram

Vishnu & Lakshmi together

Wealth, prosperity, marital happiness.

Narasimha Shaligram

Lord Narasimha (half-lion form)

Removes fear, overcomes enemies.

Rama Shaligram

Lord Rama

Brings patience, righteousness, and victory.

Krishna Shaligram

Lord Krishna

Enhances devotion, love, and spiritual wisdom.

Matsya Shaligram

Matsya Avatar (fish form)

Provides protection from natural calamities.

Varaha Shaligram

Varaha Avatar (boar form)

Removes negative energies and brings stability.

Kurm (Tortoise) Shaligram

Kurma Avatar

Strengthens patience and perseverance.

Vamana Shaligram

Vamana Avatar

Brings humility and divine blessings.

Hayagriva Shaligram

Lord Hayagriva (Knowledge Form of Vishnu)

Enhances intelligence and success in studies.

Each Shaligram has a unique power and purpose. Devotees choose one based on their needs, desires, and spiritual path.

4. How to Worship Shaligram Properly: Rituals & Practices

4.1 Daily Worship Process (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Purification of the Worship Space

  • Clean the puja room and place the Shaligram on a sacred altar.
  • Always keep it on a clean cloth or silver plate.

Step 2: Bathing the Shaligram (Abhishekam)

  • Perform Abhishekam (ritual bathing) with sacred ingredients: Water (Ganga Jal) – for purification Panchamrit (milk, honey, curd, ghee, sugar) – for prosperity Tulsi water – to enhance divine energy

Step 3: Offering Tulsi Leaves

  • Tulsi is essential for Shaligram worship, as it represents Goddess Lakshmi.
  • Without Tulsi, the worship is considered incomplete.

Step 4: Chanting Mantras

Chant Vishnu mantras while worshipping:

  • "Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya" – (General Vishnu mantra)
  • "Om Sri Lakshmi Narayanaya Namah" – (For wealth and prosperity)
  • "Om Namo Narayanaya" – (For devotion and liberation)

Step 5: Offering Naivedya (Food Offering)

  • Offer fruits, sweets, and cooked food (satvik).
  • Do not offer onions, garlic, or non-vegetarian food.

Step 6: Performing Aarti

  • Light camphor or ghee lamps and sing Vishnu Aarti.
  • Use incense sticks to spread fragrance and positivity.

5. The Mystical Powers and Blessings of Shaligram Worship

5.1 Spiritual Benefits

  • Grants divine protection from negative forces.
  • Helps in attaining liberation (Moksha).
  • Strengthens faith, devotion, and inner peace.

5.2 Material Benefits

  • Brings wealth and financial prosperity.
  • Ensures success in career and business.
  • Helps in solving marital and relationship problems.

5.3 Astrological and Planetary Benefits

  • Balances planetary doshas, especially Ketu and Rahu dosha.
  • Helps in reducing Saturn’s negative effects (Shani Dosh).

6. Conclusion: The Ultimate Vishnu Worship Through Shaligram

The Shaligram Avatar of Lord Vishnu is one of the most powerful and sacred forms of his divine presence. Worshipping a Shaligram removes negative karma, grants immense blessings, and leads to ultimate liberation.

Unlike human-made idols, Shaligrams are Vishnu himself in stone form, carrying an eternal, divine vibration. Those who worship them with sincerity, devotion, and discipline experience his direct guidance, blessings, and protection.

Friday, February 28, 2025

ವಿಷ್ಣುವಿನ ವಾಮನ ಅವತಾರ ಯಾರು?

 ವಿಷ್ಣುವಿನ ವಾಮನ ಅವತಾರವು ಋಷಿ ಕಶ್ಯಪ ಮತ್ತು ದೇವಿಯ ಅದಿತಿಯ ಮಗ. ಅವರನ್ನು ವಾಮನ ದೇವ ಎಂದು ಕರೆಯಲಾಗುತ್ತದೆ. ಅವರು ವಿಷ್ಣುವಿನ ಐದನೇ ಅವತಾರ.

ವಾಮನ ಅವತಾರದ ಕಥೆ:

  • ಅಸುರರಾಜ ಬಲಿ ತನ್ನ ತಪಸ್ಸು ಮತ್ತು ಶಕ್ತಿಯಿಂದ ಮೂರು ಲೋಕಗಳನ್ನು ವಶಪಡಿಸಿಕೊಂಡಾಗ, ದೇವರಾಜ ಇಂದ್ರನು ಸ್ವರ್ಗದ ಮೇಲೆ ಮತ್ತೆ ಹಿಡಿತ ಸಾಧಿಸಲು ವಿಷ್ಣುವನ್ನು ಪ್ರಾರ್ಥಿಸಿದನು.
  • ವಿಷ್ಣು ಇಂದ್ರನ ಪ್ರಾರ್ಥನೆಯನ್ನು ಸ್ವೀಕರಿಸಿ ವಾಮನ ಅವತಾರವನ್ನು ಧರಿಸಿದನು.
  • ವಾಮನ ಅವತಾರದಲ್ಲಿ, ವಿಷ್ಣುವು ದಾನ ಕೇಳಲು ರಾಜ ಬಲಿಯ ಬಳಿಗೆ ಹೋದನು.
  • ವಾಮನ ಅವತಾರವು ಮೂರು ಹೆಜ್ಜೆಗಳನ್ನು ಇಟ್ಟಿತು, ಅದರ ಮೂಲಕ ಅವನು ಮೂರು ಲೋಕಗಳನ್ನು ಅಳೆದನು: ಭೂಮಿ, ಸ್ವರ್ಗ ಮತ್ತು ಅವುಗಳ ನಡುವಿನ ಅಂತರ.
  • ತನ್ನ ವಾಗ್ದಾನವನ್ನು ಉಳಿಸಿಕೊಳ್ಳಲು, ಬಲಿ ತನ್ನ ತಲೆಯನ್ನು ಭಗವಂತನ ಮುಂದೆ ಇಟ್ಟು, "ದೇವರೇ, ದಯವಿಟ್ಟು ನನ್ನ ತಲೆಯ ಮೇಲೆ ಮೂರನೇ ಹೆಜ್ಜೆ ಇಡು" ಎಂದು ಹೇಳಿದನು.
  • ವಿಷ್ಣು ಕೂಡ ಹಾಗೆಯೇ ಮಾಡುತ್ತಾನೆ.
  • ಬಲಿಯ ಬದ್ಧತೆಯನ್ನು ನೋಡಿ, ವಿಷ್ಣುವು ತುಂಬಾ ಸಂತೋಷಗೊಂಡು ಅವನನ್ನು ಪಾತಾಳಲೋಕದ ಅಧಿಪತಿಯನ್ನಾಗಿ ಮಾಡುತ್ತಾನೆ.

ವಾಮನ ಜಯಂತಿ:

  • ಪಂಚಾಂಗದ ಪ್ರಕಾರ ಪ್ರತಿ ವರ್ಷ ಭಾದ್ರಪದ ಮಾಸದ ಶುಕ್ಲ ಪಕ್ಷದ ದ್ವಾದಶಿಯಂದು ವಾಮನ ಜಯಂತಿಯನ್ನು ಆಚರಿಸಲಾಗುತ್ತದೆ.