SREEM SRI DEVI MAHATHMYAMU Sri Chandi Navasathi Manthramala
CHAPTER 1
HARIHI OM
OM NAMASCHANDIKAYAI
Kroustiki Said:
1. Oh! Markendeya! You are a great saint, and well versed in all sastras. You are capable of describing the divine 'Devi Mahathmyam' comprehensively and clearly.
2. Oh! Saint! In the previous Manu Era who glorified this Earth? Who is this Savarnika, later popularly known as Manu?
3. Chandika Devi, who is none other than Mahamaya is praised as pervading in all three lokas. Who is this Chandika Devi?
4. Oh! Great saint! You are all knowledgeable. Please narrate vividly as to how she is born? Your enlightening me on this will benefit all. I salute you.
5. You have narrated about the previous seven Manus right from Swayambhuva Manu and about those Devathas, Kings and Saints who lived/ existed at that time.
6. Oh! Great Saint! Please tell me about the Seven Manus, Devathas who are going to exist in future.
Rishi Markandeya Said :
7. Savarni, the eighth Manu, is the son of Surya(SUN). I will narrate to you about his birth. Please listen.
8. Surya's son Savarni, a great person, attained the status of Manu by the Divine grace of Goddess Mahamaya. I shall narrate to you about it.
Note: The invisible, indestructible force into which aIl living beings merge at the time of deluge, is called Devi Mahamaya
9. In the Swarochisha Manvanthara, a King named Suratha, born in Chaitravamsa ruled over the whole earth.
Note: Chaitra was the son of Sworachisha Manu. Hence the Vamsa was named after him. Kritayuga, Threthayuga, Dwaparayuga, and Kaliyuga are the four yugas in the great cycle of Kalachakra. A rotation of one thousand times of the above four yugas is equivalent to a day for Brahma, the creator. Another thousand times rotation is equivalent to one night for Him. During a day and a night for Brahma fourteen Manus rule the earth. The intervening period between one Manu and another, is known as Manvanthara. The present period is VYVASWATHA MANVANTHARA.
10. While Suratha ruled over his subjects treating them as his own children, rivalry sprang with "Kolavidhwamsa" (another clan).
Note : Those who destroyed the enemy's capital called KOLA are known as KOLA - VIDHWAMSIKAS. This is a Kshatriya family. Some tribals with this name are still living in Northern India.
11. A war broke out between the King Suratha, who had a very strong army, on one side and kolavidhwamsas on the other.
12. Although Kolavidhwamsas were weak, king Suratha was defeated by them.
Note: In a war victory or defeat is decided not by a man but by fate.The case of king Suratha is an example.
13. Weakened by the defeat, he returned to his Capital and continued to rule his own kingdom.
14. The weak King Suratha lost support of his deceitful and cunning ministers who were otherwise strong, as his sons joined hands with the enemies. They ransacked the treasury and gained control over the army.
Note : The saying that pain or pleasure come in quick succession is proved in King Suratha's case.
15. Having lost power, the king, under the pretext of hunting, mounted a horse and rode deep into the thick forest all alone.
16. In the forest he saw an ashram of Sumedhasa Rishi, a great Bramhin. There he observed wild animals roaming about, unaware of their inborn cruelty, and behaving like pet animals. The ashram was glowing with the presence of many Rishis, and their disciples.
Note : Ahimsa - non-violence on all fronts, is the main step for attaining salvation. Saints who practice Ahimsa and uphold the principle, command the environment they exist in. In their presence animals of natural enmity like elephant and lion, tiger and deer etc, forget their instinct and co-exist peacefully and friendly. The environment of the ashram, therefore, upholds the greatness of Rishi Sumedhasa.
17. The king was extended hospitality by the saint and he continued his stay there for some time seeking peace.
18. In course of time, under the influence of Vishnu maya, the King began to develop attachment once again for his lost kingdom.
19. Being influenced thus by the attachment, the King's mind was crowded with the thoughts of his lost kingdom and the people he ruled. He began to worry about the state of his kingdom which was confiscated by his enemies and the capital which his great ancestors ruled earlier. He felt sorry for not knowing whether his subjects were happy with the new rulers or not.
20. He then thought of his strong Royal elephant named Sadamada and felt sorry for not knowing its plight in the hands of his cruel enemies.
21. He further thought that those who reaped benefits and constantly server! him would certainly have now shifted their loyalties and serving other kings.
22. He then thought of his beautiful wife, of his charming son, the heavenly palaces and of other ladies who were very beautiful like Apsarasas.
23. He felt that the wealth, which was earned after a great deal of difficulty, would have been emptied by the extravagant ministers and his sons.
24. The King was thus thinking in different ways about his kingdom and the people.
25. He saw a Vysya near the ashram. The Vysya was also driven away by his own sons, grandsons, and relatives and was roaming about in the forest with all humiliation.
26. The King enquired the Vysya as to who he was? Why he had come there? and why he was looking worried?
27. He then asked Vysya to speak the truth for he would suffer no sorrow at that place and assured him of peace.
28. Touched by the words of warmth and affection, the Vysya replied to the King obediently" like this.
29. I am Samadhi born in a rich Vysya family.
30. Due to greed, my wife and children took my wealth, and driven me away. My close relatives deserted me and stricken by the sorrow I have reached this forest.
31. Staying away in the forest I have no information about the welfare of my sons, wife and other relatives.
32. I do not know whether they are safe or not.
33. I do not know whether my sons are behaving well or indulging in bad activities.
34. Oh King! These thoughts trouble me day and night.
King said to Vysya :
35. "Why are you so much attached to the same wife and sons who took your wealth and driven you away? How you are able to love them still?"
Vysya said :
36. Oh King! What you said is true.
37. What to do? I am not getting angry.
38. Though my sons, rejecting my (fatherly) affection, driven me away, my wife rejected my love, my relatives did not take me as their person, yet my mind is full of affection towards all of them.
39. Oh King! I still love my relatives though they are wicked. I do not know why?
Note : Attachment to wife, children and money are the three "evils" which cause bondage and they are very difficult for a person to be got rid off. King and Vysya are afflicted by this bondage.
40. I feel sad and grieved on account of them.
41. Though cheated, I am unable to be harsh or hateful towards them. What to do?
Rishi Markandeya said :
42. Oh Bhaguri! Both of them (the King and Vysya) went to Rishi Sumedhasa.
43. Samadhi, the Vysya and Suratha, the King, prostrated before the saint and sat by his side.
They started narrating their stories by turns.
King Said :
44. Oh! Bhagavan! I wish to ask you one thing. Kindly clarify. (God is omniscient. The saint is addressed as Bhagavan with the intention that he is all knowledgeable and capable of clarifying his doubts)
45. I am unable to control my mind and hence often drowned in sorrow.
46. Oh! Great saint! I know that I am a dethroned king. Knowing that it is foolish, I am unable to detach my mind from the affairs concerning my kingdom. Why it is happening to me like this?
47. This Samadhi was also driven by his sons and wife. He was deserted by his relatives and servants. Still he is affectionate towards them.
48. Like that though both of us realise our misfortune clearly, we are suffering on account of the attraction of attachment towards the same deceitful people.
49. Oh! Great Saint! Though aware, why we are both still get lured? Why we lost our reasoning and became fools? Kindly enlighten.
Rishi Said :
50. All living beings are endowed with the knowledge of senses.
51. Oh! Great King! The knowledge conceived by the sensual organs is of different kinds.
Note: This material knowledge is of two kinds. One is knowledge experienced through the five senses i.e.,
52. Some beings cannot see during the daytime, e.g., Owl and Cockroach. Some cannot see during night, e.g., Human beings and Crows. Some can see during day and night, e.g., Tiger and Cat.
53. It is true that human beings are endowed with intelligence, but what is the use of mere knowledge of senses which birds and animals can also exhibit.
54. The intelligence possessed by human beings is also possessed by the animals and birds vice versa. Similarly, ignorance is also equal in both the categories.
Note : There is no distinction between human beings and other living
beings in so far as the metabolic activities such as hunger, sleep, fear and reproduction, are concerned
55. Birds knowing fully well that they have to suffer hunger, feed their pets carefully parting with the food collected for the day and prepared to starve themselves. Please observe those birds which willingly suffer hunger due to their attachment towards their pet birds.
56. Man brings up his children only with the fond hope that they will take care of him in his old age. This anticipation of return of help makes him selfish while showering affection on the children. Do not you see this selfish act?
57. The children may later fail to reciprocate their duty towards the parents. Still man loves his progeny under the spell of Mahamaya and falls into the bay of attachment and love filled with affectionate whirlpools.
Note : The eternal cycle of birth, death and sleeping in the mother's womb is called Samsara-Maya (fascination).
58. Oh! King! You need not, therefore, be surprised at your behaviour. This is the act of Mahamaya, which is in the form of Yoganidra of Sri Maha Vishnu. She deludes the entire world.
59. Devi Bhagavathi, as She is Mahamaya, is capable of spreading Her spell on the wise persons too.
Note: Devi is embodied with opulence, vital strength, fame, riches, wisdom and detachment and hence She is called Bhagavathi. Devi Bhagavatha purana described Her as one aware of the process of creation and destruction of the universe, birth and death of beings, knowledge as well as ignorance. Devi is Mahamaya and Her spell influences wise men too. Maya is Samsara bondage, and Devi Mahamaya relieves one from that bondage.
This combination of antithesis arouses a doubt in us. How could a wise man (Jnani) be influenced by the fascination? Jnanam (wisdom) is of two kinds. One is attaining knowledge through scriptures etc., is "Paroksham" (indirect). When the scriptural knowledge is put into practice by the grace of Guru and actual realisation of Devi takes place, it is "aparoksha Jnanam"(direct) and according to Sruthis and Smrithis such person only is devoid of Moha, Maya, Samsara. In the case of the first one, until such time he experiences unison with Devi, the influence of Maya on him is inevitable. Hence it is said that those who practice Devi’s worship and totally yield themselves to Her, receive Her grace and enough strength to overcome the Maya.
60. She is the creator of whole Universe, both moving and unmoving. (static and dynamic).
61. Devi, the giver of boons, if pleased, showers Moksha on human beings.
(Moksha is relief of soul from rebirth)
62. She is the incarnation of Sanathana Paravidya which bestows Moksha.
(The Brahma Vidya described by Vedas, is Devi Herself).
63. That supreme almighty is responsible for all the worldly bond ages.
Note : Devi is "Karma Vidya". She instigates a person to perform good deeds and earn "Punya" out of it. She is thus the cause of happiness that pushes the person into entanglement of desire, love and attachment. It is, therefore, the prime responsibility of a person to relieve himself from these bondages by' developing detachment and performing good deeds only and attempt to unite with the Mahamaya. Devi is also "Para" and "Apara"vidya. As per Mundakopanishath "Para vidya" is Vedas and vedangas. The knowledge and results gained through good and bad acts is "Apara Vidya". "Para vidya" is the knowledge gained through chanting of manthras mentioned in the Upanishads that preach about "Parabrahma".
King said :
64. Oh! Bhagavan! How that Devi, whom you described as Mahamaya came to exist? What is Her story?
Note : Collective ignorance is called Maya. If Devi is also termed as Maya, how could She bless people with Moksha? Here the meaning of "Maya" is not the commonly known ignorance. The invisible power (energy) which is the root cause of all activities in the universe, is addressed as Mahamaya. The words Maya, Sakthi, power and energy are attributed to the invisible Light (Devi) pervading the entire universe.
65. Oh! The greatest among the Brahmajnanis!
What are the qualities of Devi? What is Her form and how She revealed Herself? I am eager to know all about Her?
Note : Rishi Sumedhasa is addressed as "Brahmavidam Vara" that is greatest among all those greatest Jananis- King Suratha who stayed in the Ashram knew the greatness of Rishi Sumedhasa personally and hence used the above appropriate term. Only such a great person could describe the greatness of Devi Mahamaya.
Rishi said :
66. The Universe is the traditional form of the Devi Herself. She is the pervading force and creator of the Universe.
Note : The word NITYA denotes Devi has no birth. She is permanent, ever existing and the all-pervading force of the Universe. She is JAGANMURTHY- the form of the whole Universe and hence it is difficult to describe Her shape.
67. Though initially She has no form yet, She has many incarnations. I shall tell about such incarnations. Please listen.
Note : Devi, though Nitya and formless, reveals Herself in the forms of SIVA, CHANDI, GOWRI etc., for the benefit of the world.
68. Though She is eternal, when She manifests Herself to accomplish the purpose of the Devas, people describe that She is born.
Note : Human beings are liable to the cycle of birth depending upon their PUNYA (fruit of good acts) acquired through their previous actions. But in the case of Devi there is no such stipulation. She assumes forms with a set purpose to confer Her grace on the world. Such incarnations of Her are called A VIRBHAVAMS and not birth.
69. When the whole world was drowned in deluge at the end of Kalpa, the Omnipotent Bhagwan Vishnu lied on Audisesha and slipped into Yoganidra. At that time two Rakhsasas Madhu and Kaitabha were born out of the secretion of Lord Vishnu's ears and sought to kill Brahma.
70. Brahma, the creator, seated in the Lotus that sprung from the navel of Lord Vishnu, saw the two Rakshasas and Lord Janardhana in
Yoganidra. With due concentration He extolled Yoganidra who dwelled in the eyes of Lord Vishnu, in order to awaken Him for destroying the Rakshasas. She was Mahamaya, the primordial force responsible for the creation, sustenance and destruction of the whole Universe.
Note : Yoganidra is Devi Mahamaya. The trinity, Brahma, Vishnu, and Easwara and their actions are controlled by Her only and Her greatness is unknown even to them. Seeing the world drowned in deluge Sri Vishnu, the protector of the universe, switched over to Yoganidra, meditating upon Devi, making His eyes a dwelling for Her Yoga means Jnana and nidra means inactivity. Yoganidra however, is a different state, with half -snut eye- lids and confluence of conscious- ness and unconsciousness, as also with a deep concentration on Devi Sri Vishnu is not an ordinary creature to crave for rest and sleep. Instead He entered into a SAMADHI, a deep state of meditation, praying upon Mother Mahamaya. Meditation is the fruit of Jnana and Yoganidra signifies "Jnana Tapassamadhi". Devi in the form of Yoganidra is, therefore, a TAPASI. She is also the personification of SATVIKA GUNA and confers JNANA to all. Contrarily Tantrics contend Yoganidra is TAMASI, demanding worship with Pancha Makaras (Wine, Women, Mutton etc). Considering the greatness of Devi as explained by Rishi Sumedhasa the contention of Tantrics is baseless and is aimed at to popularise their perverted cult.
BRAHMA KRITHA STHOTHRAM
71. You are Swaha. (when sacrifices are offered in the holy Fire through Agnideva invoking Gods, the word Swaha is used).
72. You are Swadha. (When offerings are made to the Souls of the deceased (Pithru Devathas) the word Swadha is used).
73. You are Vashatkaram. (The word "Vashat" is used when "Havis" is offered to Devas in the Yagnas. All Manthras are the forms of Devi. She is Karma Vidya).
74. You are The Swaram. (The sound is Devi's form).
75. You are Sudha. (Sudha means Amritham, which sprang up when the Sea of Milk was churned by the Devathas and the Rakhsasas. Drinking Amritham bestows divinity to anyone and that means no death. Hence Sudha is Devi's form. Seated in Sahasrara Padma Devi drenches the seventy-two thousand nerves in the body (of all living beings), with the nectar or life-giving energy said Sri Adishankaracharya in Soundaryalahari.
76. Oh! Devi! You are the Omkara. Pranavanada which is the quintessence of Vedas. (Upanishads describe that Omkara is Devi herself).
77. You are the Arthamathra in the Omkara .The sound that cannot be correctly uttered. (Om is a combination of three sounds A+U+MA. The sound forming part of Omkara is Arthamathra. No one can utter it correctly and great Yogis only can do it. It is Devi Herself)
78. You are Sandhya. (The power that illuminates the Universe is Devi in the form of Light. Prayers are offered to Her in the early morning, before sunrise, in the afternoon and in the evening after the sunset. Sandhya is also praised as the Sakthi of Easwara).
79. You are Savithri. (Savithri is the Mother of Vedas. The very Gayathri manthra is Savithri. The light emitted by the three powers viz. Agni, Surya, and Chandra, is received from Devi Savithri only and they, by themselves, have no capacity to illuminate themselves. The Mother of Universe is, therefore, Savithri Herself.)
80. You are the Mother of Vedas. (You are the origin of Vedas, Puranas, etc., and all forms of knowledge available in the Universe).
81. You are Para. (You are the ultimate Paradaivam)
82. The entire Universe is ornamented by you.
83. The whole Universe is created by you.
84. Oh! Devi! you rule this Universe.
85. The whole Universe submerges into you at the end. (Sruthi, Kathopanishad and Brahma Sutras describe Devi as one who gulps the Universe
finally.)
86. Oh! Jaganmayee! At the time of creation, you are the creating force.
87. At the time of governance, you are the protector of the Universe.
88. At the time of destruction, you are the destroyer of the Universe.
(The entire Universe is created, sustained, and destroyed by Devi. She is described in these Manthras as the actor, the act, and the result).
89. You are the Brahmavidya, the greatest knowledge.
90. You are the Mahamaya. (Here Maya means the root of all knowledge. She is in the form of both Vidya and Avidya).
91. You are the greatest wisdom.
92. You are in the form of knowledge gained through experience (Samskara)
93. You are the form of attachment and charm. (Devi is in the form of antithesis - Jnana and Ajnana).
94. You are Bhagavathi. (Devi has knowledge of creation, destruction and of the births, deaths of beings).
95. You are Mahadevi.
96. You are Mahasuri, (Devi is the form of Devathas and Rakhsasas - the positive and negative forces - a unique quality.)
97. You are the primordial force for the whole Universe.
98. You are responsible for the vividity in the three gunas viz. Sathva, Rajo, and Thamo gunas i.e. equanimity, egoism, and deficiency (dullness).
99. You are in the form of Kalarathri. (absolute darkness).
100. You are in the form of Maharathri. (endless night).
101. You are in the form Moharathri(deluding night).
102. You are the Darunarathri(terrible night).
103. You are the Ghorarathri (tormenting night). (The words Kalarathri, Maharathri, Moharathri signify Pralaya, Brahmapralaya and Mahapralayas).
104. You are in the form of abundance and riches.
105. You are the dictator of the Universe.
106. You are in the form of Shyness.
107. You are in the form of Reason.
107(1). You are Bodha lakshana. (Manas, Budhi and Chitha represent different states of mind. Manas denotes wavering state. Budhi denotes steadiness and confirmed state. Chitha denotes a superior state.)
108. You are averse to unlawful activities.
109. You are the form of completeness / strength.
(Pushti represents inherent strength. It is identified in the areas of speech, Intelligence, physical, house, riches, population, cattle, villages, truth and Animadi eight super powers. All are the forms of Devi only.)
110. You are the very form of contentment.
(Contentment is the root cause of happiness)
111. You are peace.
Note : Santhi means mental peace and not external silence. When the mind is devoid of agitations and wavering’s we call it, mental equilibrium. The unison of soul with Devi is Santhi - a deep state of Samadhi. Devi is peace, Moksha, Santhi, and Samadhi.
112. You are in the form of endurance.
113. You wear the sword always.
114. You hold the Trident (Soolam).
115. You have a frightening form.
116. You wear the mace.
117. You wear the chakra (Sudarsana Chakra).
118. You hold the Divine conch.
119. You wear the bow.
120. You wear the arrows, Bhusundi and Parigha.
Note : Devi is described as holding many a type of weapon. All those weapons are also Her forms only. Tantrics described Her as holding a cup of wine and a cut-off head of a human being profusely oozing blood. They also stated Devi wears a garland of human skulls. This is misleading. Devi holds the weapons to protect the good and to end the evil. She is Nithya and takes forms only when great need arises. She holds the cup of Amritham in Her hands ready to offer it to those who seek Her feet for salvation. There is no mention of blood in the Rudradhyayam and Soundaryalahari. Tantrics depicted Devi in a frightening form, only to popularise their cult and their description is quite contrary to what has been praised in the Sruthis, Smrithis and Puranas. All devotees of Devi are requested to note this and discard the fear entertained about Devi. She is Mother of all and not a bloodthirsty drunkard.
121. You are beautiful and very delicate.
122. You are very charming.
123. You are more beautiful than any other beautiful forms in the creation.
124. You are very special, unique and most significant of all important things.
Note : In the process of self-realisation when we discard, eliminate, disown and unidentify ourselves with the many things around us, the truth and reality left behind is nothing other than Devi Herself.
125. You are Parameswari.
126. Oh! Devi! The Omnipresent! The power or energy pervading the entire Universe, be it a cause or effect, live or inert, past, present, or future, it is nothing other than your form. Hence how can I describe you in one particular form?
Note : Every object in this world is made up of atoms. Every atom is activated by the multiplication of invisible micro parts named protons and electrons. They are responsible for the endless and restless activity. This activity is energy, another form of Devi only. Present in all living creatures, She is responsible for promoting creation.
127. You have the capacity to spread your spell on Maha Vishnu Himself - the creator, sustainer, and the destroyer of the whole world. Hence who has knowledge enough to extol you in this world?
128. Oh Devi! Myself, Vishnu and Siva are created by you only. How can we describe your qualities precisely?
129. Oh! Devi! I pray you to use your great powers to contain and spread spell on the Madhu, Kaitabha Rakhsasas.
130. Please bestow your grace to awaken Sri Maha Vishnu.
131. Please also inspire and instigate Maha Vishnu to destroy the Rakhsasas
(end of sthothram)
Rishi said :
132. With the mission of awakening Sri Vishnu from Yoganidra, Brahma extolled and prayed Mahamaya. Pleased by his prayers Devi emerged in the form Divine Light from the eyes, mouth, nose, shoulders, chest and heart of Maha Vishnu and appeared before Brahma. (Brahma has no birth)
133. Having been relieved of Yoganidra, Sri Vishnu got up from his Seshathalpam.
134. He then saw the wicked, bold and brave Madhu and Kaitabha whose eyes were red with anger, and were ready to kill Brahma.
135. Immediately He prepared Himself to fight with them. With bare hands without any weapon, He fought with the Rakhsasas for five thousand years.
136. Proud of their strength and with over-confidence, as also deluded by Mahamaya the Rakhsasas asked Sri Vishnu to ask for a boon from them.
Sri Bhagavan said :
137. If you are pleased, you would rather perish at my hands this day.
138. At this moment there is no need for another boon. This is the boon I desire.
Rishi said :
139. Having thus been deceived, the Asuras looked around and observed water everywhere. They said to Sri Vishnu.
140. We are pleased with your fight. We wish to die in your hands at a place where there is no water. (The entire Universe was drowned in water. Hence, they thought they could outwit Sri Vishnu).
141. Sri Maha Vishnu agreeing to this request and wearing Sankham, Chakram, and Gada (mace) placed them on His thighs and severed their heads with his chakra.
142. Invoked and prayed by Brahma himself, Devi Mahamaya thus emerged in the form of Divine light. I shall narrate you of Her greatness. Please listen.
This story about the destruction of "Madhu
Kaitabhas" is from Sri Devi Mahatmyam which appears in the Savarnika Manvanthara Katha narrated in Sri Markandeya Mahapuranam.
The first chapter in Navasathi Manthramala is complete.
OM NAMASCHANDIKAYAI
Kroustiki Said:
1. Oh! Markendeya! You are a great saint, and well versed in all sastras. You are capable of describing the divine 'Devi Mahathmyam' comprehensively and clearly.
2. Oh! Saint! In the previous Manu Era who glorified this Earth? Who is this Savarnika, later popularly known as Manu?
3. Chandika Devi, who is none other than Mahamaya is praised as pervading in all three lokas. Who is this Chandika Devi?
4. Oh! Great saint! You are all knowledgeable. Please narrate vividly as to how she is born? Your enlightening me on this will benefit all. I salute you.
5. You have narrated about the previous seven Manus right from Swayambhuva Manu and about those Devathas, Kings and Saints who lived/ existed at that time.
6. Oh! Great Saint! Please tell me about the Seven Manus, Devathas who are going to exist in future.
Rishi Markandeya Said :
7. Savarni, the eighth Manu, is the son of Surya(SUN). I will narrate to you about his birth. Please listen.
8. Surya's son Savarni, a great person, attained the status of Manu by the Divine grace of Goddess Mahamaya. I shall narrate to you about it.
Note: The invisible, indestructible force into which aIl living beings merge at the time of deluge, is called Devi Mahamaya
9. In the Swarochisha Manvanthara, a King named Suratha, born in Chaitravamsa ruled over the whole earth.
Note: Chaitra was the son of Sworachisha Manu. Hence the Vamsa was named after him. Kritayuga, Threthayuga, Dwaparayuga, and Kaliyuga are the four yugas in the great cycle of Kalachakra. A rotation of one thousand times of the above four yugas is equivalent to a day for Brahma, the creator. Another thousand times rotation is equivalent to one night for Him. During a day and a night for Brahma fourteen Manus rule the earth. The intervening period between one Manu and another, is known as Manvanthara. The present period is VYVASWATHA MANVANTHARA.
10. While Suratha ruled over his subjects treating them as his own children, rivalry sprang with "Kolavidhwamsa" (another clan).
Note : Those who destroyed the enemy's capital called KOLA are known as KOLA - VIDHWAMSIKAS. This is a Kshatriya family. Some tribals with this name are still living in Northern India.
11. A war broke out between the King Suratha, who had a very strong army, on one side and kolavidhwamsas on the other.
12. Although Kolavidhwamsas were weak, king Suratha was defeated by them.
Note: In a war victory or defeat is decided not by a man but by fate.The case of king Suratha is an example.
13. Weakened by the defeat, he returned to his Capital and continued to rule his own kingdom.
14. The weak King Suratha lost support of his deceitful and cunning ministers who were otherwise strong, as his sons joined hands with the enemies. They ransacked the treasury and gained control over the army.
Note : The saying that pain or pleasure come in quick succession is proved in King Suratha's case.
15. Having lost power, the king, under the pretext of hunting, mounted a horse and rode deep into the thick forest all alone.
16. In the forest he saw an ashram of Sumedhasa Rishi, a great Bramhin. There he observed wild animals roaming about, unaware of their inborn cruelty, and behaving like pet animals. The ashram was glowing with the presence of many Rishis, and their disciples.
Note : Ahimsa - non-violence on all fronts, is the main step for attaining salvation. Saints who practice Ahimsa and uphold the principle, command the environment they exist in. In their presence animals of natural enmity like elephant and lion, tiger and deer etc, forget their instinct and co-exist peacefully and friendly. The environment of the ashram, therefore, upholds the greatness of Rishi Sumedhasa.
17. The king was extended hospitality by the saint and he continued his stay there for some time seeking peace.
18. In course of time, under the influence of Vishnu maya, the King began to develop attachment once again for his lost kingdom.
19. Being influenced thus by the attachment, the King's mind was crowded with the thoughts of his lost kingdom and the people he ruled. He began to worry about the state of his kingdom which was confiscated by his enemies and the capital which his great ancestors ruled earlier. He felt sorry for not knowing whether his subjects were happy with the new rulers or not.
20. He then thought of his strong Royal elephant named Sadamada and felt sorry for not knowing its plight in the hands of his cruel enemies.
21. He further thought that those who reaped benefits and constantly server! him would certainly have now shifted their loyalties and serving other kings.
22. He then thought of his beautiful wife, of his charming son, the heavenly palaces and of other ladies who were very beautiful like Apsarasas.
23. He felt that the wealth, which was earned after a great deal of difficulty, would have been emptied by the extravagant ministers and his sons.
24. The King was thus thinking in different ways about his kingdom and the people.
25. He saw a Vysya near the ashram. The Vysya was also driven away by his own sons, grandsons, and relatives and was roaming about in the forest with all humiliation.
26. The King enquired the Vysya as to who he was? Why he had come there? and why he was looking worried?
27. He then asked Vysya to speak the truth for he would suffer no sorrow at that place and assured him of peace.
28. Touched by the words of warmth and affection, the Vysya replied to the King obediently" like this.
29. I am Samadhi born in a rich Vysya family.
30. Due to greed, my wife and children took my wealth, and driven me away. My close relatives deserted me and stricken by the sorrow I have reached this forest.
31. Staying away in the forest I have no information about the welfare of my sons, wife and other relatives.
32. I do not know whether they are safe or not.
33. I do not know whether my sons are behaving well or indulging in bad activities.
34. Oh King! These thoughts trouble me day and night.
King said to Vysya :
35. "Why are you so much attached to the same wife and sons who took your wealth and driven you away? How you are able to love them still?"
Vysya said :
36. Oh King! What you said is true.
37. What to do? I am not getting angry.
38. Though my sons, rejecting my (fatherly) affection, driven me away, my wife rejected my love, my relatives did not take me as their person, yet my mind is full of affection towards all of them.
39. Oh King! I still love my relatives though they are wicked. I do not know why?
Note : Attachment to wife, children and money are the three "evils" which cause bondage and they are very difficult for a person to be got rid off. King and Vysya are afflicted by this bondage.
40. I feel sad and grieved on account of them.
41. Though cheated, I am unable to be harsh or hateful towards them. What to do?
Rishi Markandeya said :
42. Oh Bhaguri! Both of them (the King and Vysya) went to Rishi Sumedhasa.
43. Samadhi, the Vysya and Suratha, the King, prostrated before the saint and sat by his side.
They started narrating their stories by turns.
King Said :
44. Oh! Bhagavan! I wish to ask you one thing. Kindly clarify. (God is omniscient. The saint is addressed as Bhagavan with the intention that he is all knowledgeable and capable of clarifying his doubts)
45. I am unable to control my mind and hence often drowned in sorrow.
46. Oh! Great saint! I know that I am a dethroned king. Knowing that it is foolish, I am unable to detach my mind from the affairs concerning my kingdom. Why it is happening to me like this?
47. This Samadhi was also driven by his sons and wife. He was deserted by his relatives and servants. Still he is affectionate towards them.
48. Like that though both of us realise our misfortune clearly, we are suffering on account of the attraction of attachment towards the same deceitful people.
49. Oh! Great Saint! Though aware, why we are both still get lured? Why we lost our reasoning and became fools? Kindly enlighten.
Rishi Said :
50. All living beings are endowed with the knowledge of senses.
51. Oh! Great King! The knowledge conceived by the sensual organs is of different kinds.
Note: This material knowledge is of two kinds. One is knowledge experienced through the five senses i.e.,
- touch felt by the skin, 2. objects seen with the eyes, 3. sounds heard by the ears, 4. smell felt through nose and 5. taste felt by the tongue.
52. Some beings cannot see during the daytime, e.g., Owl and Cockroach. Some cannot see during night, e.g., Human beings and Crows. Some can see during day and night, e.g., Tiger and Cat.
53. It is true that human beings are endowed with intelligence, but what is the use of mere knowledge of senses which birds and animals can also exhibit.
54. The intelligence possessed by human beings is also possessed by the animals and birds vice versa. Similarly, ignorance is also equal in both the categories.
Note : There is no distinction between human beings and other living
beings in so far as the metabolic activities such as hunger, sleep, fear and reproduction, are concerned
55. Birds knowing fully well that they have to suffer hunger, feed their pets carefully parting with the food collected for the day and prepared to starve themselves. Please observe those birds which willingly suffer hunger due to their attachment towards their pet birds.
56. Man brings up his children only with the fond hope that they will take care of him in his old age. This anticipation of return of help makes him selfish while showering affection on the children. Do not you see this selfish act?
57. The children may later fail to reciprocate their duty towards the parents. Still man loves his progeny under the spell of Mahamaya and falls into the bay of attachment and love filled with affectionate whirlpools.
Note : The eternal cycle of birth, death and sleeping in the mother's womb is called Samsara-Maya (fascination).
58. Oh! King! You need not, therefore, be surprised at your behaviour. This is the act of Mahamaya, which is in the form of Yoganidra of Sri Maha Vishnu. She deludes the entire world.
59. Devi Bhagavathi, as She is Mahamaya, is capable of spreading Her spell on the wise persons too.
Note: Devi is embodied with opulence, vital strength, fame, riches, wisdom and detachment and hence She is called Bhagavathi. Devi Bhagavatha purana described Her as one aware of the process of creation and destruction of the universe, birth and death of beings, knowledge as well as ignorance. Devi is Mahamaya and Her spell influences wise men too. Maya is Samsara bondage, and Devi Mahamaya relieves one from that bondage.
This combination of antithesis arouses a doubt in us. How could a wise man (Jnani) be influenced by the fascination? Jnanam (wisdom) is of two kinds. One is attaining knowledge through scriptures etc., is "Paroksham" (indirect). When the scriptural knowledge is put into practice by the grace of Guru and actual realisation of Devi takes place, it is "aparoksha Jnanam"(direct) and according to Sruthis and Smrithis such person only is devoid of Moha, Maya, Samsara. In the case of the first one, until such time he experiences unison with Devi, the influence of Maya on him is inevitable. Hence it is said that those who practice Devi’s worship and totally yield themselves to Her, receive Her grace and enough strength to overcome the Maya.
60. She is the creator of whole Universe, both moving and unmoving. (static and dynamic).
61. Devi, the giver of boons, if pleased, showers Moksha on human beings.
(Moksha is relief of soul from rebirth)
62. She is the incarnation of Sanathana Paravidya which bestows Moksha.
(The Brahma Vidya described by Vedas, is Devi Herself).
63. That supreme almighty is responsible for all the worldly bond ages.
Note : Devi is "Karma Vidya". She instigates a person to perform good deeds and earn "Punya" out of it. She is thus the cause of happiness that pushes the person into entanglement of desire, love and attachment. It is, therefore, the prime responsibility of a person to relieve himself from these bondages by' developing detachment and performing good deeds only and attempt to unite with the Mahamaya. Devi is also "Para" and "Apara"vidya. As per Mundakopanishath "Para vidya" is Vedas and vedangas. The knowledge and results gained through good and bad acts is "Apara Vidya". "Para vidya" is the knowledge gained through chanting of manthras mentioned in the Upanishads that preach about "Parabrahma".
King said :
64. Oh! Bhagavan! How that Devi, whom you described as Mahamaya came to exist? What is Her story?
Note : Collective ignorance is called Maya. If Devi is also termed as Maya, how could She bless people with Moksha? Here the meaning of "Maya" is not the commonly known ignorance. The invisible power (energy) which is the root cause of all activities in the universe, is addressed as Mahamaya. The words Maya, Sakthi, power and energy are attributed to the invisible Light (Devi) pervading the entire universe.
65. Oh! The greatest among the Brahmajnanis!
What are the qualities of Devi? What is Her form and how She revealed Herself? I am eager to know all about Her?
Note : Rishi Sumedhasa is addressed as "Brahmavidam Vara" that is greatest among all those greatest Jananis- King Suratha who stayed in the Ashram knew the greatness of Rishi Sumedhasa personally and hence used the above appropriate term. Only such a great person could describe the greatness of Devi Mahamaya.
Rishi said :
66. The Universe is the traditional form of the Devi Herself. She is the pervading force and creator of the Universe.
Note : The word NITYA denotes Devi has no birth. She is permanent, ever existing and the all-pervading force of the Universe. She is JAGANMURTHY- the form of the whole Universe and hence it is difficult to describe Her shape.
67. Though initially She has no form yet, She has many incarnations. I shall tell about such incarnations. Please listen.
Note : Devi, though Nitya and formless, reveals Herself in the forms of SIVA, CHANDI, GOWRI etc., for the benefit of the world.
68. Though She is eternal, when She manifests Herself to accomplish the purpose of the Devas, people describe that She is born.
Note : Human beings are liable to the cycle of birth depending upon their PUNYA (fruit of good acts) acquired through their previous actions. But in the case of Devi there is no such stipulation. She assumes forms with a set purpose to confer Her grace on the world. Such incarnations of Her are called A VIRBHAVAMS and not birth.
69. When the whole world was drowned in deluge at the end of Kalpa, the Omnipotent Bhagwan Vishnu lied on Audisesha and slipped into Yoganidra. At that time two Rakhsasas Madhu and Kaitabha were born out of the secretion of Lord Vishnu's ears and sought to kill Brahma.
70. Brahma, the creator, seated in the Lotus that sprung from the navel of Lord Vishnu, saw the two Rakshasas and Lord Janardhana in
Yoganidra. With due concentration He extolled Yoganidra who dwelled in the eyes of Lord Vishnu, in order to awaken Him for destroying the Rakshasas. She was Mahamaya, the primordial force responsible for the creation, sustenance and destruction of the whole Universe.
Note : Yoganidra is Devi Mahamaya. The trinity, Brahma, Vishnu, and Easwara and their actions are controlled by Her only and Her greatness is unknown even to them. Seeing the world drowned in deluge Sri Vishnu, the protector of the universe, switched over to Yoganidra, meditating upon Devi, making His eyes a dwelling for Her Yoga means Jnana and nidra means inactivity. Yoganidra however, is a different state, with half -snut eye- lids and confluence of conscious- ness and unconsciousness, as also with a deep concentration on Devi Sri Vishnu is not an ordinary creature to crave for rest and sleep. Instead He entered into a SAMADHI, a deep state of meditation, praying upon Mother Mahamaya. Meditation is the fruit of Jnana and Yoganidra signifies "Jnana Tapassamadhi". Devi in the form of Yoganidra is, therefore, a TAPASI. She is also the personification of SATVIKA GUNA and confers JNANA to all. Contrarily Tantrics contend Yoganidra is TAMASI, demanding worship with Pancha Makaras (Wine, Women, Mutton etc). Considering the greatness of Devi as explained by Rishi Sumedhasa the contention of Tantrics is baseless and is aimed at to popularise their perverted cult.
BRAHMA KRITHA STHOTHRAM
71. You are Swaha. (when sacrifices are offered in the holy Fire through Agnideva invoking Gods, the word Swaha is used).
72. You are Swadha. (When offerings are made to the Souls of the deceased (Pithru Devathas) the word Swadha is used).
73. You are Vashatkaram. (The word "Vashat" is used when "Havis" is offered to Devas in the Yagnas. All Manthras are the forms of Devi. She is Karma Vidya).
74. You are The Swaram. (The sound is Devi's form).
75. You are Sudha. (Sudha means Amritham, which sprang up when the Sea of Milk was churned by the Devathas and the Rakhsasas. Drinking Amritham bestows divinity to anyone and that means no death. Hence Sudha is Devi's form. Seated in Sahasrara Padma Devi drenches the seventy-two thousand nerves in the body (of all living beings), with the nectar or life-giving energy said Sri Adishankaracharya in Soundaryalahari.
76. Oh! Devi! You are the Omkara. Pranavanada which is the quintessence of Vedas. (Upanishads describe that Omkara is Devi herself).
77. You are the Arthamathra in the Omkara .The sound that cannot be correctly uttered. (Om is a combination of three sounds A+U+MA. The sound forming part of Omkara is Arthamathra. No one can utter it correctly and great Yogis only can do it. It is Devi Herself)
78. You are Sandhya. (The power that illuminates the Universe is Devi in the form of Light. Prayers are offered to Her in the early morning, before sunrise, in the afternoon and in the evening after the sunset. Sandhya is also praised as the Sakthi of Easwara).
79. You are Savithri. (Savithri is the Mother of Vedas. The very Gayathri manthra is Savithri. The light emitted by the three powers viz. Agni, Surya, and Chandra, is received from Devi Savithri only and they, by themselves, have no capacity to illuminate themselves. The Mother of Universe is, therefore, Savithri Herself.)
80. You are the Mother of Vedas. (You are the origin of Vedas, Puranas, etc., and all forms of knowledge available in the Universe).
81. You are Para. (You are the ultimate Paradaivam)
82. The entire Universe is ornamented by you.
83. The whole Universe is created by you.
84. Oh! Devi! you rule this Universe.
85. The whole Universe submerges into you at the end. (Sruthi, Kathopanishad and Brahma Sutras describe Devi as one who gulps the Universe
finally.)
86. Oh! Jaganmayee! At the time of creation, you are the creating force.
87. At the time of governance, you are the protector of the Universe.
88. At the time of destruction, you are the destroyer of the Universe.
(The entire Universe is created, sustained, and destroyed by Devi. She is described in these Manthras as the actor, the act, and the result).
89. You are the Brahmavidya, the greatest knowledge.
90. You are the Mahamaya. (Here Maya means the root of all knowledge. She is in the form of both Vidya and Avidya).
91. You are the greatest wisdom.
92. You are in the form of knowledge gained through experience (Samskara)
93. You are the form of attachment and charm. (Devi is in the form of antithesis - Jnana and Ajnana).
94. You are Bhagavathi. (Devi has knowledge of creation, destruction and of the births, deaths of beings).
95. You are Mahadevi.
96. You are Mahasuri, (Devi is the form of Devathas and Rakhsasas - the positive and negative forces - a unique quality.)
97. You are the primordial force for the whole Universe.
98. You are responsible for the vividity in the three gunas viz. Sathva, Rajo, and Thamo gunas i.e. equanimity, egoism, and deficiency (dullness).
99. You are in the form of Kalarathri. (absolute darkness).
100. You are in the form of Maharathri. (endless night).
101. You are in the form Moharathri(deluding night).
102. You are the Darunarathri(terrible night).
103. You are the Ghorarathri (tormenting night). (The words Kalarathri, Maharathri, Moharathri signify Pralaya, Brahmapralaya and Mahapralayas).
104. You are in the form of abundance and riches.
105. You are the dictator of the Universe.
106. You are in the form of Shyness.
107. You are in the form of Reason.
107(1). You are Bodha lakshana. (Manas, Budhi and Chitha represent different states of mind. Manas denotes wavering state. Budhi denotes steadiness and confirmed state. Chitha denotes a superior state.)
108. You are averse to unlawful activities.
109. You are the form of completeness / strength.
(Pushti represents inherent strength. It is identified in the areas of speech, Intelligence, physical, house, riches, population, cattle, villages, truth and Animadi eight super powers. All are the forms of Devi only.)
110. You are the very form of contentment.
(Contentment is the root cause of happiness)
111. You are peace.
Note : Santhi means mental peace and not external silence. When the mind is devoid of agitations and wavering’s we call it, mental equilibrium. The unison of soul with Devi is Santhi - a deep state of Samadhi. Devi is peace, Moksha, Santhi, and Samadhi.
112. You are in the form of endurance.
113. You wear the sword always.
114. You hold the Trident (Soolam).
115. You have a frightening form.
116. You wear the mace.
117. You wear the chakra (Sudarsana Chakra).
118. You hold the Divine conch.
119. You wear the bow.
120. You wear the arrows, Bhusundi and Parigha.
Note : Devi is described as holding many a type of weapon. All those weapons are also Her forms only. Tantrics described Her as holding a cup of wine and a cut-off head of a human being profusely oozing blood. They also stated Devi wears a garland of human skulls. This is misleading. Devi holds the weapons to protect the good and to end the evil. She is Nithya and takes forms only when great need arises. She holds the cup of Amritham in Her hands ready to offer it to those who seek Her feet for salvation. There is no mention of blood in the Rudradhyayam and Soundaryalahari. Tantrics depicted Devi in a frightening form, only to popularise their cult and their description is quite contrary to what has been praised in the Sruthis, Smrithis and Puranas. All devotees of Devi are requested to note this and discard the fear entertained about Devi. She is Mother of all and not a bloodthirsty drunkard.
121. You are beautiful and very delicate.
122. You are very charming.
123. You are more beautiful than any other beautiful forms in the creation.
124. You are very special, unique and most significant of all important things.
Note : In the process of self-realisation when we discard, eliminate, disown and unidentify ourselves with the many things around us, the truth and reality left behind is nothing other than Devi Herself.
125. You are Parameswari.
126. Oh! Devi! The Omnipresent! The power or energy pervading the entire Universe, be it a cause or effect, live or inert, past, present, or future, it is nothing other than your form. Hence how can I describe you in one particular form?
Note : Every object in this world is made up of atoms. Every atom is activated by the multiplication of invisible micro parts named protons and electrons. They are responsible for the endless and restless activity. This activity is energy, another form of Devi only. Present in all living creatures, She is responsible for promoting creation.
127. You have the capacity to spread your spell on Maha Vishnu Himself - the creator, sustainer, and the destroyer of the whole world. Hence who has knowledge enough to extol you in this world?
128. Oh Devi! Myself, Vishnu and Siva are created by you only. How can we describe your qualities precisely?
129. Oh! Devi! I pray you to use your great powers to contain and spread spell on the Madhu, Kaitabha Rakhsasas.
130. Please bestow your grace to awaken Sri Maha Vishnu.
131. Please also inspire and instigate Maha Vishnu to destroy the Rakhsasas
(end of sthothram)
Rishi said :
132. With the mission of awakening Sri Vishnu from Yoganidra, Brahma extolled and prayed Mahamaya. Pleased by his prayers Devi emerged in the form Divine Light from the eyes, mouth, nose, shoulders, chest and heart of Maha Vishnu and appeared before Brahma. (Brahma has no birth)
133. Having been relieved of Yoganidra, Sri Vishnu got up from his Seshathalpam.
134. He then saw the wicked, bold and brave Madhu and Kaitabha whose eyes were red with anger, and were ready to kill Brahma.
135. Immediately He prepared Himself to fight with them. With bare hands without any weapon, He fought with the Rakhsasas for five thousand years.
136. Proud of their strength and with over-confidence, as also deluded by Mahamaya the Rakhsasas asked Sri Vishnu to ask for a boon from them.
Sri Bhagavan said :
137. If you are pleased, you would rather perish at my hands this day.
138. At this moment there is no need for another boon. This is the boon I desire.
Rishi said :
139. Having thus been deceived, the Asuras looked around and observed water everywhere. They said to Sri Vishnu.
140. We are pleased with your fight. We wish to die in your hands at a place where there is no water. (The entire Universe was drowned in water. Hence, they thought they could outwit Sri Vishnu).
141. Sri Maha Vishnu agreeing to this request and wearing Sankham, Chakram, and Gada (mace) placed them on His thighs and severed their heads with his chakra.
142. Invoked and prayed by Brahma himself, Devi Mahamaya thus emerged in the form of Divine light. I shall narrate you of Her greatness. Please listen.
This story about the destruction of "Madhu
Kaitabhas" is from Sri Devi Mahatmyam which appears in the Savarnika Manvanthara Katha narrated in Sri Markandeya Mahapuranam.
The first chapter in Navasathi Manthramala is complete.
CHAPTER 2
OM NAMASCHANDIKA YAI
Rishi said :
(Maharshi continued his narration about Sri Devi.)
143. When Mahishasura was the king of Demons and Lord Indra was the king of Gods, a severe war last for one hundred years between them. (Mahishasura was the son of Mahishmathi.)
144. In that war Lord lndra's army met with defeat Mahishasura embraced victory and became the ruler of the Heaven.
145. The defeated Gods along with Brahma, approached Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu for their help.
146. They narrated how they were defeated by Mahishasura and the atrocities committed on them after victory to Lord Shiva and Vishnu. .
147. The powers and functions wielded by Surya (the Sun God), Indra, Agni(fire), Vayu(wind), the Moon and the Varuna(rain), were taken away from them and handled by Mahishasura all alone.
148. All the Gods were driven out of Heaven by the wicked Mahishasura and coming down to the earth they were roaming about like human beings. (may be in the form of human beings)
149. We have narrated the wicked deeds of the Mahishasura and seek your shelter. Please think. about the means to destroy the demon.
Rishi Said : - (Rishi continued)
150. Listening to the prayers of the Gods, their eyebrows knitted together, the faces of Vishnu and Shiva turned red with anger.
151. Then emerged a great light from the enraged face of Lord Vishnu. Similarly, light emerged from the faces of Brahma and Siva.
152. Immediately from the bodies of Indra and other God's great energy in the form of light gushed out and joined together.
153. The total power appeared like a mountain of fire which spread light everywhere.
154. The light that emerged from all God's merged together and took the shape of a woman.
155. Lord Shiva's Thejas formed Her face.
156. Lord Yama's Thejas transformed into Her hair.
157. Lord Vishnu's Thejas became Her hands.
158. The Moon's Thejas formed Her breasts.
159. Lord Indra's Thejas became Her waist.
160. Mother earth contributed to Her hips.
161. Lord Varuna's Thejas changed into Her thighs and calf muscles.
162. Lord Brahma's Thejas changed into Her feet.
163. The Surya's Thejas turned into Her toes.
164. The strength of Ashtavavus changed into Her fingers.
165. Lord Kubera's Thejas formed Her nose.
166. The Prajapathi's Thejas changed into Her teeth.
167. Lord Agni's strength changed into Her three eyes.
168. The power emitted by Dawn and Dusk changed into Her eyebrows.
169. Lord Vayu's power changed into Her ears.
170. All other Gods also contributed their strength to Her Divine form - SRI DEVI MAHAMAYA.
Note: Devi Mahamaya is all -pervading and ever-existing supreme energy. She distributed Her energy and functioned through various Gods in different forms. In order to destroy Mahishasura She has recollected Her energy and appeared as an embodiment of supreme energy/light.
171. All the grief-stricken Gods felt very happy and confident after seeing Her.
172. All of them surrendered their weapons to Her.
172-1. In the hope of victory all Gods praised and prayed Her loudly.
173. Lord Shiva gave a Trident (taken from the original) to Her.
174. Lord Vishnu created a Divine wheel out of His Divine wheel and presented it to Her.
175. Lord Varuna gave Her a Conch (Shell to Blow).
176. Lord Agni (fire) gave Her a weapon named Shakthi.
177. Lord Vayu{wind) presented Her two quivers full of arrows and a bow.
178. Lord Indra created a Vajrayudha from his own and presented it to Her.
179. Lord Indra, who is described as having thousand eyes, took bell from his elephant Iravatha and gave it to Her.
180. Lord Yama presented a Dandam (stick) to Her.
181. Lord Varuna presented a Pasam (noose) also.
182. One of the Prajapathies gave Akshamala to Her.
183. Lord Brahma gave His Kamandalam.
184. The Sun God filled all Her hair follicles with His rays.
185. The Goddess of Death presented Her a sword and shield.
186. The Ocean of Milk decorated Her with a garland, new clothes, Choodamani, earrings, bangles, anklets, finger rings, necklace and gave a crescent moon to decorate Her head.
187. Vishwakarma presented Her a pick an axe with many other Astras. He also presented an impenetrable armour.
188. The Goddess of Ocean decorated Her head, neck and hands with ever-fresh lotus garlands.
189. Himavanth (the king of Himalayan mountains) gave Her precious gems and a Lion to ride.
190. King Kubera gave Her a vessel filled with Amritham (Immortal drink).
191. The king of serpents Adisesha, who is carrying the earth on his hoods, presented Her a Nagaharam studded with different kinds of gems. (Nagaharam : A serpent shaped chain made of 1 000 snakes which Devi wears on Her head.)
192. Other Gods and Goddesses also contributed their weapons and jewels to decorate Her. Many a time Mother Goddess shouted loudly, laughed hilariously.
193. Her terrible laughter and shouts filled the air everywhere.
194. The sounds filled the air started echoing and reverberating.
195. Her shouts agitated or shook all Lokas (worlds). Seven Lokas are : 1.Bhooloka 2. Bhuvar loka 3.Suvarloka 4.Maharloka 5. Jana loka 6. Thapo loka. 7. Satya loka.
196. Great commotion was created in seas and oceans.
197. The earth started quivering.
198. Even the mountains started shaking.
199. All Gods happily sang in praise of HER when She sat on the Lion.
200. Rishis, with great devotion and obedience, sang in praise of Her.
201. Rakshasas keenly observed the noise terrible, alerted their army, collected all weapons and prepared themselves for war imminent.
202. Mahishasura who heard the frightening sounds, ran in that direction with wonder.
203. Mahishasura saw the Goddess who was spreading Her brightness everywhere. The earth bent beneath Her heavy feet. Her crown was touching the sky. The sound and vibrations produced from Her Bowstring, penetrated through the worlds below. Surrounded by six lakh forty thousand attendants, She occupied the whole space with Her thousand hands.
204 The Rakshasas started fighting with Her. The brightness of different Astras and Sastras used by them filled light everywhere. (Sastram is a weapon directed on a seen object. Astram is a weapon directed with a mantra on an unseen object.)
205. Mahishasura's chief of army named Chikshura, fought with Devi along with his chariots, cavalry, elephants and infantry.
206. Another Rakshasa named Chamara also along with his chaturanga sena fought with Her.
207. Another Rakshasa named Udagra, along with his sixty thousand chariots fought with Her.
208. A Rakshasa named Mahahanu led his one crore chariots to fight with Her.
209. A great demon named Asiloma headed his five crore chariots to fight with Her.
210. An army chief named Bhashkala took his sixty lakh chariots and fought with Her.
211. An army chief named Ugradarsan headed thousands of elephants, cavalry, one crore chariots and fought with Her. Kala took his fifty lakh chariots and same number of soldiers and fought with Her. Other than these great warriors Ugrasya, Ugraveerya, Trinetra, Karala, Thamra, Andhaka, Durdhara, Durmukha and Uddhatha fought with Her vehemently.
Note: The numbers quoted here may sound unnatural in the present circumstances. Sri Devi Mahatmyamu is a story concerned with the three worlds. So, there is nothing unnatural about the numbers mentioned here. In the nearest past a galaxy named NGC x7457 is identified. It is at a distance of 400 lakhs of light years from the earth. One light-year is equivalent to 365X24X60X60X1, 86, 000 miles. There are 30, 000 suns within this distance.
212. Bidala, the Rakshasa collected five hundred crores of chariots and fought with Her.
213. Other Rakshasas also brought thousands of chariots, elephants and cavalry and fought with Her.
214. Some thousand crores of chariots, elephants and horses were at the command of
Mahishasura at the time of war to help him.
215. A terrible war to the extent of destroying the whole Universe, took place between the Demons and the Goddess.
216. Rakshasas used weapons named Thomaram, Bindipalam; Sakthi, Musalam, Sword, Parasu (axe), Pattisam in the war.
Note: Bindipalam - A weapon used to pelt stones. Pattisam - Metal stick Thomaram - Weapon made with iron.
217. Some Asuras threw Sakthi weapons on Goddess.
218. Some of them threw Noose against Her.
219. Some were prepared to torture Her with swords.
220. Devi Chandika also showered arrows and weapons on them and destroyed the Astras and Shastras thrown by the Demons.
221. The Omniscient Goddess with an untiring shiny red face, discharged many weapons against Demons while the Rishis and Gods were praising Her in many ways.
222. The Lion on which She was riding also shook its mane ferociously and attacked the enemies like a forest fire.
223. In the battlefield from the breath Ambika exhaled, thousands of Deviganas were born.
224. The Deviganas derived more strength from Devi and destructed the enemies with their weapons - Parasu, Bindipalam, Pattissam and sword.
225. Pramatha ganas enthusiastically played the war instruments named "Patahams" in the war field.
226. Some other Pramatha ganas blew the conches and filled the air with the noise.
227. Some of them played war beats on the drums.
228. Wishing victory to the Gods, Rishis prayed them.
229. Devi Chandika with Her Trident, Mace, weapons named Sakthi and Rishti and sword etc, Killed hundreds of Demons in no time.
(Rishti - weapon sharpened on both sides.)
230. Ringing Her Ghanta (Bell) Devi made many Asuras swoon.
231. Some Demons were pulled down with Her Pasam (noose).
232. Some Asuras were torn into pieces with Her sharp sword.
233. Some Rakhsasas became prey to Her heavy Mace and fell dead.
234. Some rakshasas were severely beaten with 'Musalam' and they vomited blood.
235. Some Rakshasas were pushed to the ground and their chests were torn with Her Trident.
236. The bodies of some Rakhsasas were fully covered with arrows spread by Devi and later succumbed to death.
237. Devi severed the hands of some Demons.
238. Some Demons fell on the ground beheaded by Her.
239. She cut the heads of Rakshasas and they rolled on the floor.
240. Devi Chandi massacred the Demons whoever came before Her.
241. Those who tried to retaliate lost their legs.
242. Some Demons who lost one head, one eye and one leg fell on the ground wounded.
243. Beheaded Demons' "Torsos" (Kabandhas) got up in the battlefield.
244. Even Kabandhas wearing weapons tried to fight with Devi again.
245. Some Kabandhas danced to the tune of war beats. Thousands of them tried to attack Devi but in vain.
246. Headless Kabandhas collected their heads, carried weapons like sword, Shakthi, Rishti, and shouted loudly and ran in the direction of the Goddess. Their bodies were drenched in blood oozed out of their bodies and gave a horrified look.
247. The whole field was covered with the dead bodies of soldiers, elephants, horses and chariots. The war field looked dreadful: with no space even to stand.
248. The blood oozed from the slain bodies of the Rakshasas and animals flowed like a river.
249. Devi Jaganmatha destroyed the armies as fire destroys haystack and a pile of wood.
250. Even Her Lion unfurled its mane, roared loudly and killed the Demons.
251. The God's who were witnessing the war became very happy to see the Pramatha ganas causing total destruction to the Rakshasas. They sang in praise of Devi and showered flowers from the sky.
This story of "Mahishasura Sainya Vadha" is taken from Sri Devi Mahatmyam which in turn
appears in the Sri Markandeya Maha Purana, the second chapter of the main book
"Navasathi Manthramala" is complete.
Rishi said :
(Maharshi continued his narration about Sri Devi.)
143. When Mahishasura was the king of Demons and Lord Indra was the king of Gods, a severe war last for one hundred years between them. (Mahishasura was the son of Mahishmathi.)
144. In that war Lord lndra's army met with defeat Mahishasura embraced victory and became the ruler of the Heaven.
145. The defeated Gods along with Brahma, approached Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu for their help.
146. They narrated how they were defeated by Mahishasura and the atrocities committed on them after victory to Lord Shiva and Vishnu. .
147. The powers and functions wielded by Surya (the Sun God), Indra, Agni(fire), Vayu(wind), the Moon and the Varuna(rain), were taken away from them and handled by Mahishasura all alone.
148. All the Gods were driven out of Heaven by the wicked Mahishasura and coming down to the earth they were roaming about like human beings. (may be in the form of human beings)
149. We have narrated the wicked deeds of the Mahishasura and seek your shelter. Please think. about the means to destroy the demon.
Rishi Said : - (Rishi continued)
150. Listening to the prayers of the Gods, their eyebrows knitted together, the faces of Vishnu and Shiva turned red with anger.
151. Then emerged a great light from the enraged face of Lord Vishnu. Similarly, light emerged from the faces of Brahma and Siva.
152. Immediately from the bodies of Indra and other God's great energy in the form of light gushed out and joined together.
153. The total power appeared like a mountain of fire which spread light everywhere.
154. The light that emerged from all God's merged together and took the shape of a woman.
155. Lord Shiva's Thejas formed Her face.
156. Lord Yama's Thejas transformed into Her hair.
157. Lord Vishnu's Thejas became Her hands.
158. The Moon's Thejas formed Her breasts.
159. Lord Indra's Thejas became Her waist.
160. Mother earth contributed to Her hips.
161. Lord Varuna's Thejas changed into Her thighs and calf muscles.
162. Lord Brahma's Thejas changed into Her feet.
163. The Surya's Thejas turned into Her toes.
164. The strength of Ashtavavus changed into Her fingers.
165. Lord Kubera's Thejas formed Her nose.
166. The Prajapathi's Thejas changed into Her teeth.
167. Lord Agni's strength changed into Her three eyes.
168. The power emitted by Dawn and Dusk changed into Her eyebrows.
169. Lord Vayu's power changed into Her ears.
170. All other Gods also contributed their strength to Her Divine form - SRI DEVI MAHAMAYA.
Note: Devi Mahamaya is all -pervading and ever-existing supreme energy. She distributed Her energy and functioned through various Gods in different forms. In order to destroy Mahishasura She has recollected Her energy and appeared as an embodiment of supreme energy/light.
171. All the grief-stricken Gods felt very happy and confident after seeing Her.
172. All of them surrendered their weapons to Her.
172-1. In the hope of victory all Gods praised and prayed Her loudly.
173. Lord Shiva gave a Trident (taken from the original) to Her.
174. Lord Vishnu created a Divine wheel out of His Divine wheel and presented it to Her.
175. Lord Varuna gave Her a Conch (Shell to Blow).
176. Lord Agni (fire) gave Her a weapon named Shakthi.
177. Lord Vayu{wind) presented Her two quivers full of arrows and a bow.
178. Lord Indra created a Vajrayudha from his own and presented it to Her.
179. Lord Indra, who is described as having thousand eyes, took bell from his elephant Iravatha and gave it to Her.
180. Lord Yama presented a Dandam (stick) to Her.
181. Lord Varuna presented a Pasam (noose) also.
182. One of the Prajapathies gave Akshamala to Her.
183. Lord Brahma gave His Kamandalam.
184. The Sun God filled all Her hair follicles with His rays.
185. The Goddess of Death presented Her a sword and shield.
186. The Ocean of Milk decorated Her with a garland, new clothes, Choodamani, earrings, bangles, anklets, finger rings, necklace and gave a crescent moon to decorate Her head.
187. Vishwakarma presented Her a pick an axe with many other Astras. He also presented an impenetrable armour.
188. The Goddess of Ocean decorated Her head, neck and hands with ever-fresh lotus garlands.
189. Himavanth (the king of Himalayan mountains) gave Her precious gems and a Lion to ride.
190. King Kubera gave Her a vessel filled with Amritham (Immortal drink).
191. The king of serpents Adisesha, who is carrying the earth on his hoods, presented Her a Nagaharam studded with different kinds of gems. (Nagaharam : A serpent shaped chain made of 1 000 snakes which Devi wears on Her head.)
192. Other Gods and Goddesses also contributed their weapons and jewels to decorate Her. Many a time Mother Goddess shouted loudly, laughed hilariously.
193. Her terrible laughter and shouts filled the air everywhere.
194. The sounds filled the air started echoing and reverberating.
195. Her shouts agitated or shook all Lokas (worlds). Seven Lokas are : 1.Bhooloka 2. Bhuvar loka 3.Suvarloka 4.Maharloka 5. Jana loka 6. Thapo loka. 7. Satya loka.
196. Great commotion was created in seas and oceans.
197. The earth started quivering.
198. Even the mountains started shaking.
199. All Gods happily sang in praise of HER when She sat on the Lion.
200. Rishis, with great devotion and obedience, sang in praise of Her.
201. Rakshasas keenly observed the noise terrible, alerted their army, collected all weapons and prepared themselves for war imminent.
202. Mahishasura who heard the frightening sounds, ran in that direction with wonder.
203. Mahishasura saw the Goddess who was spreading Her brightness everywhere. The earth bent beneath Her heavy feet. Her crown was touching the sky. The sound and vibrations produced from Her Bowstring, penetrated through the worlds below. Surrounded by six lakh forty thousand attendants, She occupied the whole space with Her thousand hands.
204 The Rakshasas started fighting with Her. The brightness of different Astras and Sastras used by them filled light everywhere. (Sastram is a weapon directed on a seen object. Astram is a weapon directed with a mantra on an unseen object.)
205. Mahishasura's chief of army named Chikshura, fought with Devi along with his chariots, cavalry, elephants and infantry.
206. Another Rakshasa named Chamara also along with his chaturanga sena fought with Her.
207. Another Rakshasa named Udagra, along with his sixty thousand chariots fought with Her.
208. A Rakshasa named Mahahanu led his one crore chariots to fight with Her.
209. A great demon named Asiloma headed his five crore chariots to fight with Her.
210. An army chief named Bhashkala took his sixty lakh chariots and fought with Her.
211. An army chief named Ugradarsan headed thousands of elephants, cavalry, one crore chariots and fought with Her. Kala took his fifty lakh chariots and same number of soldiers and fought with Her. Other than these great warriors Ugrasya, Ugraveerya, Trinetra, Karala, Thamra, Andhaka, Durdhara, Durmukha and Uddhatha fought with Her vehemently.
Note: The numbers quoted here may sound unnatural in the present circumstances. Sri Devi Mahatmyamu is a story concerned with the three worlds. So, there is nothing unnatural about the numbers mentioned here. In the nearest past a galaxy named NGC x7457 is identified. It is at a distance of 400 lakhs of light years from the earth. One light-year is equivalent to 365X24X60X60X1, 86, 000 miles. There are 30, 000 suns within this distance.
212. Bidala, the Rakshasa collected five hundred crores of chariots and fought with Her.
213. Other Rakshasas also brought thousands of chariots, elephants and cavalry and fought with Her.
214. Some thousand crores of chariots, elephants and horses were at the command of
Mahishasura at the time of war to help him.
215. A terrible war to the extent of destroying the whole Universe, took place between the Demons and the Goddess.
216. Rakshasas used weapons named Thomaram, Bindipalam; Sakthi, Musalam, Sword, Parasu (axe), Pattisam in the war.
Note: Bindipalam - A weapon used to pelt stones. Pattisam - Metal stick Thomaram - Weapon made with iron.
217. Some Asuras threw Sakthi weapons on Goddess.
218. Some of them threw Noose against Her.
219. Some were prepared to torture Her with swords.
220. Devi Chandika also showered arrows and weapons on them and destroyed the Astras and Shastras thrown by the Demons.
221. The Omniscient Goddess with an untiring shiny red face, discharged many weapons against Demons while the Rishis and Gods were praising Her in many ways.
222. The Lion on which She was riding also shook its mane ferociously and attacked the enemies like a forest fire.
223. In the battlefield from the breath Ambika exhaled, thousands of Deviganas were born.
224. The Deviganas derived more strength from Devi and destructed the enemies with their weapons - Parasu, Bindipalam, Pattissam and sword.
225. Pramatha ganas enthusiastically played the war instruments named "Patahams" in the war field.
226. Some other Pramatha ganas blew the conches and filled the air with the noise.
227. Some of them played war beats on the drums.
228. Wishing victory to the Gods, Rishis prayed them.
229. Devi Chandika with Her Trident, Mace, weapons named Sakthi and Rishti and sword etc, Killed hundreds of Demons in no time.
(Rishti - weapon sharpened on both sides.)
230. Ringing Her Ghanta (Bell) Devi made many Asuras swoon.
231. Some Demons were pulled down with Her Pasam (noose).
232. Some Asuras were torn into pieces with Her sharp sword.
233. Some Rakhsasas became prey to Her heavy Mace and fell dead.
234. Some rakshasas were severely beaten with 'Musalam' and they vomited blood.
235. Some Rakshasas were pushed to the ground and their chests were torn with Her Trident.
236. The bodies of some Rakhsasas were fully covered with arrows spread by Devi and later succumbed to death.
237. Devi severed the hands of some Demons.
238. Some Demons fell on the ground beheaded by Her.
239. She cut the heads of Rakshasas and they rolled on the floor.
240. Devi Chandi massacred the Demons whoever came before Her.
241. Those who tried to retaliate lost their legs.
242. Some Demons who lost one head, one eye and one leg fell on the ground wounded.
243. Beheaded Demons' "Torsos" (Kabandhas) got up in the battlefield.
244. Even Kabandhas wearing weapons tried to fight with Devi again.
245. Some Kabandhas danced to the tune of war beats. Thousands of them tried to attack Devi but in vain.
246. Headless Kabandhas collected their heads, carried weapons like sword, Shakthi, Rishti, and shouted loudly and ran in the direction of the Goddess. Their bodies were drenched in blood oozed out of their bodies and gave a horrified look.
247. The whole field was covered with the dead bodies of soldiers, elephants, horses and chariots. The war field looked dreadful: with no space even to stand.
248. The blood oozed from the slain bodies of the Rakshasas and animals flowed like a river.
249. Devi Jaganmatha destroyed the armies as fire destroys haystack and a pile of wood.
250. Even Her Lion unfurled its mane, roared loudly and killed the Demons.
251. The God's who were witnessing the war became very happy to see the Pramatha ganas causing total destruction to the Rakshasas. They sang in praise of Devi and showered flowers from the sky.
This story of "Mahishasura Sainya Vadha" is taken from Sri Devi Mahatmyam which in turn
appears in the Sri Markandeya Maha Purana, the second chapter of the main book
"Navasathi Manthramala" is complete.
CHAPTER 3
OM NAMASCHADIKA YAI
Maharshi said :
252. Chikshura, the chief of army of Mahishasura, having observed the endless massacre of his army prepared to attack the Goddess.
253. Chikshura rained arrows on Devi, like a dark cloud drenches the peak of Meru mountain.
Note: The simile is self-explaining Devi remained unaffected by the Asura's arrows like the Meru mountain.
254. Devi easily conquered the arrows and killed the charioteer and the horses of the Rakshasas chariot.
255. Immediately She cut off his bow and the banner of his chariot.
255-1. Later Her sharp and speedy arrows pierced through his body.
256. Chikshura's bow got broken. He lost his chariot, horses and charioteer. Undaunted, the Rakshasa took his sword and shield and attacked the Goddess.
257. With his sharp-edged sword, he hit on the head of the Lion and on Devi's left hand.
258. Oh! King! The sword, when it touched Devi's hand, broke into pieces. (such is the strength of the Goddess).
259. The sense of defeat and shame increased his anger and reddened his eyes. He took his Trident to fight with Her.
260. Chikshura threw the Trident, which was dazzling like Sun on Bhadrakali.
Note: Bhadrakali means one who bestows safety, security and happiness.
261. Devi retaliated with Her Trident.
262. Chikshura's Trident was cut into pieces by Her Trident.
263. The Rakshasas was also torn into pieces by Her Trident.
264. When the valiant Chikshura, the chieftain, was killed, Chamara came forward on his elephant.
265. Chamara discharged a weapon named "Sakthi" against Devi.
266. When Jaganmatha attacked the "Sakthi" with "Hum" sound, the weapon lost its power and fell down.
267. Chamara noticed Sakthi falling powerless. He grew angry and threw his spear on Devi.
268. Devi broke it with Her arrows.
269. When his spear also failed Chamara took his arrows and bow. With great skill he attacked Devi and Her Lion.
270. In a most unexpected manner, the Lion ~into the air and descended on the trunk of the elephant and fought with the Rakshasa.
271. Both the Lion and the Rakshasa fell on the ground. Still they continued their fight with fearful blows.
272. The Lion quickly flew into the air and severed the head of Chamara with its paws.
273. Devi beat the Rakshasa named Udagra, with the rocks and trees and killed him.
274. Devi bit with Her teeth and beat with Her fists and killed 'Karala' the Rakshasa.
Note: Biting with the teeth might suggest the Lion killed Karala. But he was killed by the Goddess.
275. Enraged, Goddess pounded 'Uddhatha' with Her mace and killed him.
276. Parameswari killed 'Bhaskala' with Bindhipala.
277. Parameswari destroyed 'Tamara' with Her arrows.
278. Parameswari destroyed 'Andhaka' also in the same manner.
279. Parameswari Killed 'Ugrasya' with Her Trident.
280. Another Demon named 'Ugraveerya' was also killed by Her Trident.
281. Mahahanu was also killed by Her Trident.
282. Parameswari destroyed Trinetra, the
Rakshasas, with Her spear.
283.Devi severed the head of Bidala and threw it away.
284. With the same sword She beheaded 'Asiloma',
285. With terrible blows of Her sword, Devi pushed 'Ugradarshana' down.
286. Two more Rakshasas named 'Durdhara and Durmukha' were sent to the abode of Yam a by Her sharp arrows.
287. The Goddess, in the form of Kalaratri (absolute darkness), killed "Kala" with Her Kaladanda.
288. Devi, Her battalions and the Lion expressed joy at the victory.
289. Mahishasura, who watched the destruction caused to his armies, frightened Her battalions in the form of a buffalo. (Mahisha = Buffalo)
290. Some of the battalions who were born out of Her breath, were beaten with his trunk and pushed to the ground.
291. The Rakshasa, In the buffalo's form, beat some of Her army with his hooves.
292. The Rakshasa was in his own form, and he hit with his tail and threw them on the ground.
293. Some of Her battalions were torn with his horns.
294. Mahishasura whirled round speedily and pulled some down.
295. (As the Asura was in the buffalo's form) With his bellowing sound he fell some enemies to the ground.
296. Mahishasura wheeled round many times and pushed some enemies down to the earth.
297. Mahishasura, breathing out heavily, threw some Devi ganas to the ground.
298. After destroying the Pramatha ganas (battalions) the Asura ran fast to slay the Lion.
299. Mother Goddess got wild.
300. The valiant Mahishasura got angry, dug the earth with his hooves, hurled huge mountains with his horns and bellowed loudly.
301. Speedy movements of Mahishasura damaged the earth.
302. The Ocean, which was lashed by his tail, drowned the earth in the water.
303. When Mahishasura had swayed his horns vehemently, the clouds got disturbed and scattered.
304. The heavy heaves and exhaled air of Mahishasura blew the Mountains into the air which later fell down.
305. Seeing the enraged Asura advancing towards Her, Chandika Devi exhibited anger to slain him.
306. Devi threw Her noose and tied the strong Rakshasa.
307. Mahishasura, who was bound in that great battle gave up his buffalo form.
308. Mahishasura transformed into a Tiger and Devi again bound him up.
309. The Asura took the form of Rhinoceros. Devi again tied him up.
310. Mahishasura transformed into a wild Boar. Again, Devi bound him.
311. He then changed into a Lion. Devi tied him again.
312. When the Goddess was about to cut his head, he appeared in the human form holding a sword.
313. Immediately Devi destroyed his sword, shield and showered the Rakshasa with Her arrows.
314. He then turned into a huge Elephant.
315. Mahishasura in the elephant form, pulled the Lion with his trunk and trumpeted loudly.
316. Devi severed the trunk of the elephant (Rakshasa) which was pulling the Lion.
317. Mahishasura who changed into different forms like a tiger, a rhinoceros, a boar, a lion, a man, and an elephant took his natural form - buffalo. He caused turmoil in the three worlds.
318. Goddess Chandika angrily drank divine Amritham several times. She laughed aloud with red eyes.
Note: See foreword for explanatory note on this.
319. The strong, valorous, proud and bold Rakshasa roared aloud. He threw mountains on Chandikadevi which he lifted with his horns.
320. Devi powdered the mountains thrown on Her with Her arrows. With reddened mouth and tarrying words, She talked to him, thus.
321. Oh! Foolish Rakshasa ! you roar until I empty the Divine Drink. Then I would destroy you and Gods then would roar instead.
Rishi said :
322. Instantly, Devi jumped and stood on Rakshasa, stamped him with Her foot and pierced Her spear into his neck.
323. Mahishasura who was caught under the strong grip of Devi's foot, tried to come out in Human form but Devi observed his efforts to relieve himself, tightened Her grip and overpowered him.
324. Mahishasura with his half-revealed form continued his fight relentlessly. Devi separated his head with Her sharp sword. Devi who bestows happiness in Three Lokas, destroyed Mahishasura along with his friends and servants. A host of Gods, Human beings and all living creatures, in the three Lokas sang in praise of Devi, out of great joy.
325. The remaining soldiers of the Rakshasas got terrified, ran helter-skelter.
326. Battalions of Gods and attendants of Devi shouted jubilantly.
327. All Gods joined great Saints and sang in praise of Her.
Note: In this chapter Rishi Veda Vyasa used Ambika, Devi, Bhadrakali, Chandika, Jaganmatha, Mahadevi, Kalarathri and Parameswari. All these names refer to Mother Devi only.
328. From Heaven Gods showered flowers on Her in praise and gratitude.
329. Viswavasu and other Gandharvas sang happily.
330. Apsarasas(Divine Women) danced in groups. (Apsarasas., Beautiful women in Heaven.)
330-1. After the destruction of the Mahishasura, Indra along with other Gods praised the Mother.
(Note: The invocation rendered by the Gods is called "Mahishanthakari Sooktham" This is considered to be the gist of Vedas and without the initiation by a Guru can be read by all. Mother Goddess showers grace on the one who reads the Sooktham and rescues the devotee from all dangers in life.) " Oh! Devi! I am very much scared of the demands of life in this world, My sincere salutations to 'Durga Devi' one who is unreachable to the evil minded, one who destroys the evil persons and one who helps the good to cross the ocean of life".
Rishi Said :
331. When the valiant yet evil minded Mahishasura, along with his followers were totally annihilated by Devi, Indra with a host of Gods praised Her with reverence and joy. Their bodies trembled out of happiness and they bent their necks and shoulders out of reverence and worshipped Her.
Note: PRAHARSHA PULAKODGAMAM is an exalted condition of a Devotee when one can realise the presence of MOTHER. For a true devotee while praying the Goddess, tears roll down the cheeks, body sweats and shudders, voice chokes and in an exalted state of feeling a trance inexplicable, he experiences the vision of Goddess. He practically forgets everything around him at that moment.
332. Gods praised Her: Salutations to Devi who is pervading the whole Universe (both animate and inanimate) who is the very incarnation of Powers extracted from all Gods and whom all the Gods and Saints worship for ever.
333. Let Her bestow happiness to us.
Note: Happiness is of two kinds. One is material, worldly advancement which is the characteristic of animal breed the second one is inexpressible ultimate unison with God. Both can be attained by Her grace.
334. We invoke the blessings of the Goddess, whose incomparable strength and power cannot be described even by the Trinity, who is the Protector of the entire Universe, to destroy the fear of evil spirits in this world.
335. You are dwelling in the homes of virtuous people in the form of prosperity.
336. Oh! Devi! Salutations. Rule this world.
337. In the homes of evil minded, you are in the form of poverty.
Note: Devi is the personification of antithesis. She is the creator as well as destroyer. She is responsible for the rejuvenation and devastation. She represents prosperity and poverty. She lives in birth and death, health and disease, in peace and war, in the form of light and darkness, in full moon and new moon. A true devotee should, therefore, visualize her presence in everything and lead life with equanimity.
338. Oh! Devi! the Omnipresent Salutations to you to bless the world.
339. You are dwelling in the form of knowledge and intelligence in the minds of Learned.
340. Oh! Devi! we pray you as such to bless this world.
341. You are dwelling in the hearts of righteous people in the form of sincerity and faith.
Note: Sraddha means faith in God, Guru and Sastras. Faith is different from blind faith. Ignorance is the cause of blind faith whereas true faith is the outcome of thought, review and philosophy. For a faithful person, the knowledge reveals itself.
342. Oh! Devi! The embodiment of Faith, we pray you to protect the world.
343. The Modesty in the hearts of righteous is yourself.
Note: LAJJA is not something like shamefulness due to unlawful behaviour. Shyness spontaneously expressed by noble women and which is born out of decency, is Lajja.
344. Oh! Devi! The incarnation of Modesty! We pray you to protect the World.
345. Oh! Devi! You are pervading through Gods, Demons and other attendants. How could we imagine and describe your total form.
Note: How is the form of Devi whom Gods prayed and praised? She filled the Universe with Her lustre and light. Her crown was touching the sky and She stretched Herself in all directions with Her thousand hands. No one can imagine and describe Her.
346. Oh! Devi! The destructor of the vicious Asuras. How could we describe in few words, your valour which has no equal in Gods and demons?
347. Oh! Devi! How could we describe the great and miraculous valour exhibited by you in war against Mahishasura?
348. Oh! Devi! You are the cause behind all Worlds.
349. Oh! Devi! Even though you possess the three. Sathva, Rajo and Thamo gunas, you still remain unaffected by them. That is why even Gods are not able to know your real nature.
350. Oh! Devi! You are incomprehensible to Vishnu and Shiva, etc.,
351. Oh! Devi! There is no beginning or end for you.
352. Oh! Devi! You are the final resort of everybody in this world.
353. Oh! Devi! The whole Universe is a part of your whole Self.
354. Oh! Devi! You are formless.
355. Oh! Devi! You are Supreme.
356. Oh! Devi! You are the Nature.
357. Oh! Devi! You are the beginning, or the origin of the Universe.
Note: In the above Mantras Devi is described as the primordial supreme nature.
358. Oh! Devi! You are Svaha, the utterance of which gives satisfaction in all the sacrifices to the Gods.
359. You are responsible for the satisfaction derived by the souls of the ancestors. That is why, you are chanted as 'Svadha'.
360. Oh! Devi! You are the Supreme Vidya which is cause of liberation.
360-1.Oh! Devi! You are the Brahmavidya or True Knowledge which can be attained by controlling the senses. You are the Brahmavidya sought and practised by the Saints.
360-2. Oh! Devi! You are the pure and Supreme Knowledge aspired by the blemishless Saints.
Note: Control of senses, reasoning and detachment etc., are the Mahavrathas which are Practised by the great saints. Acquisition of any other branches of knowledge will not be complete unless the realization (supreme Jnana) through Brahma Vidya is attained. Hence the Mahavrathas that help acquire Brahma Vidya are also Devi.
361. Oh! Devi! You are in the form of sound.
362. Oh! Devi! You are the most pure in the world.
363. Oh! Devi! You are in the form of Rig and Yajurveda.
364. Oh! Devi! You are the essence of Samaveda which can be sung aloud.
365. Oh! Devi! You are the knowledge derived out of Vedas.
Note : Vedas are the form of Devi only.
366. You are the destroyer of poverty and bestower of riches or prosperity in the form of hard work, cattle, trade and commerce. The very knowledge of logic and moral discrimination is your own form.
Note : Devi is omniscient.
367. The Goddess Saraswati, who presides over the intellect which comprehends the essence off our Vedas, is your own form.
368. You are living in the Heart of the Vishnu in the form of Lakshmi.
369. You are sharing the left portion of Chandrasekhara (Shiva) permanently.
370. Oh! Devi! You are Durga, the boat of detachment, which helps people to cross the difficult ocean of worldly existence.
371. The pure and serene smile on your face resembles the Moon on full Moon day. Your face is shining like gold After seeing your beautiful face, how did Mahishasura get angry and declare war?
372. Oh! Devi! It is a wonder, how did Mahishasura survive after seeing your glowing face resembling the rising Moon and eyebrows twisted with anger?
373. How could one survive after seeing the enraged Yama?
374. Oh! Devi! Regain your peaceful form. Your form ensures well-being (welfare) to all.
375. If you are angry with anyone, you will destroy the families of those persons.
376. By destroying the huge army of Mahishasura you have shown the consequences of your wrath.
377. Devi! The bestower of worldly pleasures, Moksha, popularity and respect in this world. Whoever gains your grace, they are blessed with prosperity and fame in the four walks of life (Dharma, Artha, Kama, Moksha). Your devotees remain steady. Their wives, children, servants, and relatives remain loyal. They will be successful in life.
378. Oh! Devi! Pious men always discharge their duties with humility and sincerity.
379. Your grace helps your devotees to attain Heavenly abode.
380. Oh! Devi! You bless people with the benefits of both wands. (Earth and Heaven)
Note : People enjoy or suffer as a consequence of their good or bad activities in the previous birth. Devi is the decider of their actions and their consequences.
381. Oh! Durga Devi! You dispel the fear of poverty and disease when somebody merely thinks upon and prays you.
382. Being prayed by the people who stand above poverty, diseases and sorrow, you bestow them with very sacred and auspicious knowledge.
383. Oh! Devi! The dispeller of poverty, fear and pain! Which other Goddess can be more kind and sympathetic at heart than yourself?
384. 'By killing these Asuras the Universe enjoys peace and harmony. Maybe they have committed enough sins to stay long in Hell. Yet let them die in the battlefield to attain Heaven." Thinking so you are killing the enemies. That is true. You established peace in the Universe by killing these evil-minded Asuras. As they are not your devotees and are wicked, they deserve sufferings in Hell, you gave them a chance to reach Heaven by creating an opportunity to die in your hands in the battlefield.
Note : In the earlier Mantras it is stated Devi confers grace on Her devotees. This Mantra describes that Devi bestows grace not only on Her devotees but also on Her rivals. Whatever be the qualities a Mother loves Her children equally and secures happiness impartially to a/l of them. All beings may not be Devi's devotees, yet She ends evil to establish peace to all. She conferred grace even on the Asuras by creating, an opportunity to them to reach Heaven by meeting a warriors death at Her hands in the battlefield. A sanyasi who attained the status of a Yogi and a warrior who died in the battlefield are the two persons who can penetrate through the globe of SUN to attain the divine abode.
385. Oh! Devi! You can reduce the Rakshasas into ashes with your look itself. Why did you use so many Sastras? Your intention was to purify, even the enemies with your weapons and grace them with higher worlds after death in the war field.
386. Why the eyes of Rakshasas did not become blind, after seeing the fierce and dazzling light emitted by your sword and spear? Because they were seeing the serene, cool and peaceful face of yours.
387. Oh! Devil! Erasing the evil Intentions of the wicked is your very nature.
387-1. Oh! Devi! Your present beautiful form is different from other forms and something special, Unimaginable and inconceivable.
387-2. Your valour is greater than the valiant Rakshasas who defeated Gods.
387-3. By sending them to Heaven, you have blessed even your enemies with kindness.
388. There is no comparison for your prowess. Your appearance gives happiness in the hearts of the devotees and develops fear in the hearts of the foes. There is no other form equivalent to yours.
389. Oh! Devi! The bestower of Boons! In the three worlds, you alone can possess compassion in the heart and ruthlessness in the battlefield.
Note : Devi ruthlessly killed the demons but compassionately led them to Heaven.
390. Oh! Devi! You have saved the three Worlds by destroying the Rakshasas. You blessed even wicked Demons with Heaven. You have wiped the fear from our hearts posed by proud Rakshasas.
391. Salutations to the compassionate Mother.
392. Oh! Devi! The Universal Mother! Please safeguard us with your Trident, Sword, Twang of your Bow string and protect us with the sound of your Bell.
Note : The address "Ambika" implies that it is the duty of mother to protect her children.
393. The protector of Universe oh! Chandika! By turning your spear please guard us in the East, in the West, in the North and in the South.
394. Oh! Devi! Your peaceful forms and frightening forms that dwell in the Three Worlds do protect us.
395. Oh! Universal Mother! Please protect us with your hands holding the sword, spear and mace which resemble tender leaves.
Note : Even though She is holding harmful weapons Her hands did not
lose the tenderness.
Maharshi said :
396. All Gods sang in praise of Her and worshipped Her with Divine flowers available in "Nandanavana" (Garden in Heaven) and smeared sandal paste on Her. They adored Her with sweet, scented smoke. Devi who is appeased by the prayers of Gods addressed them.
397. Oh! Gods! I am very much pleased at your prayers and worship. You ask for boons. Your salutations and devotion made me happy. I have killed the valiant Mahishasura for the welfare of whole Universe. I am happy to perform or fulfil any difficult task you ask for! All the Gods overwhelmed with the graceful words of Devi, stood with folded hands out of reverence.
Gods said :
398. Oh! Bhagawati! With the destruction of
Mahishasura, you have left nothing unfulfilled and unachieved.
399. Oh! Maheswari! Please redeem us from dangers whenever we pray to you.
400. Oh! Devi! whenever human beings worship you with this prayer please bestow knowledge, cattle, prosperity and other riches befitting growth in their lives.
401. Oh! Mother! You bless us always.
402. Oh! Devi! You are the controller of all Gods. You have performed the greatest act of killing Demons and establishing peace in the world. This itself is a great favour done to us. Please bless us with such riches which keep our hearts and minds happy and delighted.
Rishi said :
403. Oh! Raja! All Gods worshipped Devi in various forms for their welfare and the well-being of the whole world. Goddess Bhadrakali accepted their prayers and disappeared.
404. Oh! Raja! In the beginning, I have described how Devi took Her form from the powers shared by all Gods for the benefit of the whole world.
405. Oh! Raja! I will narrate later, how Devi is born out of Gowri and destroyed wicked Chanda Mundasuras, Sumbha, Nisumbha in the form of Kowshiki. I will also enlighten you, how She, helped Gods when they were in need of Her help and protected the Three Worlds.
The story of 'Mahishasura Vadha’ is an extract from "Sri Devi Mahatmyam" which inturn is taken from
"Sri Markendaya Purana" with this the Third chapter of main book namely
'Navasathi Mantramala' is complete.
Maharshi said :
252. Chikshura, the chief of army of Mahishasura, having observed the endless massacre of his army prepared to attack the Goddess.
253. Chikshura rained arrows on Devi, like a dark cloud drenches the peak of Meru mountain.
Note: The simile is self-explaining Devi remained unaffected by the Asura's arrows like the Meru mountain.
254. Devi easily conquered the arrows and killed the charioteer and the horses of the Rakshasas chariot.
255. Immediately She cut off his bow and the banner of his chariot.
255-1. Later Her sharp and speedy arrows pierced through his body.
256. Chikshura's bow got broken. He lost his chariot, horses and charioteer. Undaunted, the Rakshasa took his sword and shield and attacked the Goddess.
257. With his sharp-edged sword, he hit on the head of the Lion and on Devi's left hand.
258. Oh! King! The sword, when it touched Devi's hand, broke into pieces. (such is the strength of the Goddess).
259. The sense of defeat and shame increased his anger and reddened his eyes. He took his Trident to fight with Her.
260. Chikshura threw the Trident, which was dazzling like Sun on Bhadrakali.
Note: Bhadrakali means one who bestows safety, security and happiness.
261. Devi retaliated with Her Trident.
262. Chikshura's Trident was cut into pieces by Her Trident.
263. The Rakshasas was also torn into pieces by Her Trident.
264. When the valiant Chikshura, the chieftain, was killed, Chamara came forward on his elephant.
265. Chamara discharged a weapon named "Sakthi" against Devi.
266. When Jaganmatha attacked the "Sakthi" with "Hum" sound, the weapon lost its power and fell down.
267. Chamara noticed Sakthi falling powerless. He grew angry and threw his spear on Devi.
268. Devi broke it with Her arrows.
269. When his spear also failed Chamara took his arrows and bow. With great skill he attacked Devi and Her Lion.
270. In a most unexpected manner, the Lion ~into the air and descended on the trunk of the elephant and fought with the Rakshasa.
271. Both the Lion and the Rakshasa fell on the ground. Still they continued their fight with fearful blows.
272. The Lion quickly flew into the air and severed the head of Chamara with its paws.
273. Devi beat the Rakshasa named Udagra, with the rocks and trees and killed him.
274. Devi bit with Her teeth and beat with Her fists and killed 'Karala' the Rakshasa.
Note: Biting with the teeth might suggest the Lion killed Karala. But he was killed by the Goddess.
275. Enraged, Goddess pounded 'Uddhatha' with Her mace and killed him.
276. Parameswari killed 'Bhaskala' with Bindhipala.
277. Parameswari destroyed 'Tamara' with Her arrows.
278. Parameswari destroyed 'Andhaka' also in the same manner.
279. Parameswari Killed 'Ugrasya' with Her Trident.
280. Another Demon named 'Ugraveerya' was also killed by Her Trident.
281. Mahahanu was also killed by Her Trident.
282. Parameswari destroyed Trinetra, the
Rakshasas, with Her spear.
283.Devi severed the head of Bidala and threw it away.
284. With the same sword She beheaded 'Asiloma',
285. With terrible blows of Her sword, Devi pushed 'Ugradarshana' down.
286. Two more Rakshasas named 'Durdhara and Durmukha' were sent to the abode of Yam a by Her sharp arrows.
287. The Goddess, in the form of Kalaratri (absolute darkness), killed "Kala" with Her Kaladanda.
288. Devi, Her battalions and the Lion expressed joy at the victory.
289. Mahishasura, who watched the destruction caused to his armies, frightened Her battalions in the form of a buffalo. (Mahisha = Buffalo)
290. Some of the battalions who were born out of Her breath, were beaten with his trunk and pushed to the ground.
291. The Rakshasa, In the buffalo's form, beat some of Her army with his hooves.
292. The Rakshasa was in his own form, and he hit with his tail and threw them on the ground.
293. Some of Her battalions were torn with his horns.
294. Mahishasura whirled round speedily and pulled some down.
295. (As the Asura was in the buffalo's form) With his bellowing sound he fell some enemies to the ground.
296. Mahishasura wheeled round many times and pushed some enemies down to the earth.
297. Mahishasura, breathing out heavily, threw some Devi ganas to the ground.
298. After destroying the Pramatha ganas (battalions) the Asura ran fast to slay the Lion.
299. Mother Goddess got wild.
300. The valiant Mahishasura got angry, dug the earth with his hooves, hurled huge mountains with his horns and bellowed loudly.
301. Speedy movements of Mahishasura damaged the earth.
302. The Ocean, which was lashed by his tail, drowned the earth in the water.
303. When Mahishasura had swayed his horns vehemently, the clouds got disturbed and scattered.
304. The heavy heaves and exhaled air of Mahishasura blew the Mountains into the air which later fell down.
305. Seeing the enraged Asura advancing towards Her, Chandika Devi exhibited anger to slain him.
306. Devi threw Her noose and tied the strong Rakshasa.
307. Mahishasura, who was bound in that great battle gave up his buffalo form.
308. Mahishasura transformed into a Tiger and Devi again bound him up.
309. The Asura took the form of Rhinoceros. Devi again tied him up.
310. Mahishasura transformed into a wild Boar. Again, Devi bound him.
311. He then changed into a Lion. Devi tied him again.
312. When the Goddess was about to cut his head, he appeared in the human form holding a sword.
313. Immediately Devi destroyed his sword, shield and showered the Rakshasa with Her arrows.
314. He then turned into a huge Elephant.
315. Mahishasura in the elephant form, pulled the Lion with his trunk and trumpeted loudly.
316. Devi severed the trunk of the elephant (Rakshasa) which was pulling the Lion.
317. Mahishasura who changed into different forms like a tiger, a rhinoceros, a boar, a lion, a man, and an elephant took his natural form - buffalo. He caused turmoil in the three worlds.
318. Goddess Chandika angrily drank divine Amritham several times. She laughed aloud with red eyes.
Note: See foreword for explanatory note on this.
319. The strong, valorous, proud and bold Rakshasa roared aloud. He threw mountains on Chandikadevi which he lifted with his horns.
320. Devi powdered the mountains thrown on Her with Her arrows. With reddened mouth and tarrying words, She talked to him, thus.
321. Oh! Foolish Rakshasa ! you roar until I empty the Divine Drink. Then I would destroy you and Gods then would roar instead.
Rishi said :
322. Instantly, Devi jumped and stood on Rakshasa, stamped him with Her foot and pierced Her spear into his neck.
323. Mahishasura who was caught under the strong grip of Devi's foot, tried to come out in Human form but Devi observed his efforts to relieve himself, tightened Her grip and overpowered him.
324. Mahishasura with his half-revealed form continued his fight relentlessly. Devi separated his head with Her sharp sword. Devi who bestows happiness in Three Lokas, destroyed Mahishasura along with his friends and servants. A host of Gods, Human beings and all living creatures, in the three Lokas sang in praise of Devi, out of great joy.
325. The remaining soldiers of the Rakshasas got terrified, ran helter-skelter.
326. Battalions of Gods and attendants of Devi shouted jubilantly.
327. All Gods joined great Saints and sang in praise of Her.
Note: In this chapter Rishi Veda Vyasa used Ambika, Devi, Bhadrakali, Chandika, Jaganmatha, Mahadevi, Kalarathri and Parameswari. All these names refer to Mother Devi only.
328. From Heaven Gods showered flowers on Her in praise and gratitude.
329. Viswavasu and other Gandharvas sang happily.
330. Apsarasas(Divine Women) danced in groups. (Apsarasas., Beautiful women in Heaven.)
330-1. After the destruction of the Mahishasura, Indra along with other Gods praised the Mother.
(Note: The invocation rendered by the Gods is called "Mahishanthakari Sooktham" This is considered to be the gist of Vedas and without the initiation by a Guru can be read by all. Mother Goddess showers grace on the one who reads the Sooktham and rescues the devotee from all dangers in life.) " Oh! Devi! I am very much scared of the demands of life in this world, My sincere salutations to 'Durga Devi' one who is unreachable to the evil minded, one who destroys the evil persons and one who helps the good to cross the ocean of life".
Rishi Said :
331. When the valiant yet evil minded Mahishasura, along with his followers were totally annihilated by Devi, Indra with a host of Gods praised Her with reverence and joy. Their bodies trembled out of happiness and they bent their necks and shoulders out of reverence and worshipped Her.
Note: PRAHARSHA PULAKODGAMAM is an exalted condition of a Devotee when one can realise the presence of MOTHER. For a true devotee while praying the Goddess, tears roll down the cheeks, body sweats and shudders, voice chokes and in an exalted state of feeling a trance inexplicable, he experiences the vision of Goddess. He practically forgets everything around him at that moment.
332. Gods praised Her: Salutations to Devi who is pervading the whole Universe (both animate and inanimate) who is the very incarnation of Powers extracted from all Gods and whom all the Gods and Saints worship for ever.
333. Let Her bestow happiness to us.
Note: Happiness is of two kinds. One is material, worldly advancement which is the characteristic of animal breed the second one is inexpressible ultimate unison with God. Both can be attained by Her grace.
334. We invoke the blessings of the Goddess, whose incomparable strength and power cannot be described even by the Trinity, who is the Protector of the entire Universe, to destroy the fear of evil spirits in this world.
335. You are dwelling in the homes of virtuous people in the form of prosperity.
336. Oh! Devi! Salutations. Rule this world.
337. In the homes of evil minded, you are in the form of poverty.
Note: Devi is the personification of antithesis. She is the creator as well as destroyer. She is responsible for the rejuvenation and devastation. She represents prosperity and poverty. She lives in birth and death, health and disease, in peace and war, in the form of light and darkness, in full moon and new moon. A true devotee should, therefore, visualize her presence in everything and lead life with equanimity.
338. Oh! Devi! the Omnipresent Salutations to you to bless the world.
339. You are dwelling in the form of knowledge and intelligence in the minds of Learned.
340. Oh! Devi! we pray you as such to bless this world.
341. You are dwelling in the hearts of righteous people in the form of sincerity and faith.
Note: Sraddha means faith in God, Guru and Sastras. Faith is different from blind faith. Ignorance is the cause of blind faith whereas true faith is the outcome of thought, review and philosophy. For a faithful person, the knowledge reveals itself.
342. Oh! Devi! The embodiment of Faith, we pray you to protect the world.
343. The Modesty in the hearts of righteous is yourself.
Note: LAJJA is not something like shamefulness due to unlawful behaviour. Shyness spontaneously expressed by noble women and which is born out of decency, is Lajja.
344. Oh! Devi! The incarnation of Modesty! We pray you to protect the World.
345. Oh! Devi! You are pervading through Gods, Demons and other attendants. How could we imagine and describe your total form.
Note: How is the form of Devi whom Gods prayed and praised? She filled the Universe with Her lustre and light. Her crown was touching the sky and She stretched Herself in all directions with Her thousand hands. No one can imagine and describe Her.
346. Oh! Devi! The destructor of the vicious Asuras. How could we describe in few words, your valour which has no equal in Gods and demons?
347. Oh! Devi! How could we describe the great and miraculous valour exhibited by you in war against Mahishasura?
348. Oh! Devi! You are the cause behind all Worlds.
349. Oh! Devi! Even though you possess the three. Sathva, Rajo and Thamo gunas, you still remain unaffected by them. That is why even Gods are not able to know your real nature.
350. Oh! Devi! You are incomprehensible to Vishnu and Shiva, etc.,
351. Oh! Devi! There is no beginning or end for you.
352. Oh! Devi! You are the final resort of everybody in this world.
353. Oh! Devi! The whole Universe is a part of your whole Self.
354. Oh! Devi! You are formless.
355. Oh! Devi! You are Supreme.
356. Oh! Devi! You are the Nature.
357. Oh! Devi! You are the beginning, or the origin of the Universe.
Note: In the above Mantras Devi is described as the primordial supreme nature.
358. Oh! Devi! You are Svaha, the utterance of which gives satisfaction in all the sacrifices to the Gods.
359. You are responsible for the satisfaction derived by the souls of the ancestors. That is why, you are chanted as 'Svadha'.
360. Oh! Devi! You are the Supreme Vidya which is cause of liberation.
360-1.Oh! Devi! You are the Brahmavidya or True Knowledge which can be attained by controlling the senses. You are the Brahmavidya sought and practised by the Saints.
360-2. Oh! Devi! You are the pure and Supreme Knowledge aspired by the blemishless Saints.
Note: Control of senses, reasoning and detachment etc., are the Mahavrathas which are Practised by the great saints. Acquisition of any other branches of knowledge will not be complete unless the realization (supreme Jnana) through Brahma Vidya is attained. Hence the Mahavrathas that help acquire Brahma Vidya are also Devi.
361. Oh! Devi! You are in the form of sound.
362. Oh! Devi! You are the most pure in the world.
363. Oh! Devi! You are in the form of Rig and Yajurveda.
364. Oh! Devi! You are the essence of Samaveda which can be sung aloud.
365. Oh! Devi! You are the knowledge derived out of Vedas.
Note : Vedas are the form of Devi only.
366. You are the destroyer of poverty and bestower of riches or prosperity in the form of hard work, cattle, trade and commerce. The very knowledge of logic and moral discrimination is your own form.
Note : Devi is omniscient.
367. The Goddess Saraswati, who presides over the intellect which comprehends the essence off our Vedas, is your own form.
368. You are living in the Heart of the Vishnu in the form of Lakshmi.
369. You are sharing the left portion of Chandrasekhara (Shiva) permanently.
370. Oh! Devi! You are Durga, the boat of detachment, which helps people to cross the difficult ocean of worldly existence.
371. The pure and serene smile on your face resembles the Moon on full Moon day. Your face is shining like gold After seeing your beautiful face, how did Mahishasura get angry and declare war?
372. Oh! Devi! It is a wonder, how did Mahishasura survive after seeing your glowing face resembling the rising Moon and eyebrows twisted with anger?
373. How could one survive after seeing the enraged Yama?
374. Oh! Devi! Regain your peaceful form. Your form ensures well-being (welfare) to all.
375. If you are angry with anyone, you will destroy the families of those persons.
376. By destroying the huge army of Mahishasura you have shown the consequences of your wrath.
377. Devi! The bestower of worldly pleasures, Moksha, popularity and respect in this world. Whoever gains your grace, they are blessed with prosperity and fame in the four walks of life (Dharma, Artha, Kama, Moksha). Your devotees remain steady. Their wives, children, servants, and relatives remain loyal. They will be successful in life.
378. Oh! Devi! Pious men always discharge their duties with humility and sincerity.
379. Your grace helps your devotees to attain Heavenly abode.
380. Oh! Devi! You bless people with the benefits of both wands. (Earth and Heaven)
Note : People enjoy or suffer as a consequence of their good or bad activities in the previous birth. Devi is the decider of their actions and their consequences.
381. Oh! Durga Devi! You dispel the fear of poverty and disease when somebody merely thinks upon and prays you.
382. Being prayed by the people who stand above poverty, diseases and sorrow, you bestow them with very sacred and auspicious knowledge.
383. Oh! Devi! The dispeller of poverty, fear and pain! Which other Goddess can be more kind and sympathetic at heart than yourself?
384. 'By killing these Asuras the Universe enjoys peace and harmony. Maybe they have committed enough sins to stay long in Hell. Yet let them die in the battlefield to attain Heaven." Thinking so you are killing the enemies. That is true. You established peace in the Universe by killing these evil-minded Asuras. As they are not your devotees and are wicked, they deserve sufferings in Hell, you gave them a chance to reach Heaven by creating an opportunity to die in your hands in the battlefield.
Note : In the earlier Mantras it is stated Devi confers grace on Her devotees. This Mantra describes that Devi bestows grace not only on Her devotees but also on Her rivals. Whatever be the qualities a Mother loves Her children equally and secures happiness impartially to a/l of them. All beings may not be Devi's devotees, yet She ends evil to establish peace to all. She conferred grace even on the Asuras by creating, an opportunity to them to reach Heaven by meeting a warriors death at Her hands in the battlefield. A sanyasi who attained the status of a Yogi and a warrior who died in the battlefield are the two persons who can penetrate through the globe of SUN to attain the divine abode.
385. Oh! Devi! You can reduce the Rakshasas into ashes with your look itself. Why did you use so many Sastras? Your intention was to purify, even the enemies with your weapons and grace them with higher worlds after death in the war field.
386. Why the eyes of Rakshasas did not become blind, after seeing the fierce and dazzling light emitted by your sword and spear? Because they were seeing the serene, cool and peaceful face of yours.
387. Oh! Devil! Erasing the evil Intentions of the wicked is your very nature.
387-1. Oh! Devi! Your present beautiful form is different from other forms and something special, Unimaginable and inconceivable.
387-2. Your valour is greater than the valiant Rakshasas who defeated Gods.
387-3. By sending them to Heaven, you have blessed even your enemies with kindness.
388. There is no comparison for your prowess. Your appearance gives happiness in the hearts of the devotees and develops fear in the hearts of the foes. There is no other form equivalent to yours.
389. Oh! Devi! The bestower of Boons! In the three worlds, you alone can possess compassion in the heart and ruthlessness in the battlefield.
Note : Devi ruthlessly killed the demons but compassionately led them to Heaven.
390. Oh! Devi! You have saved the three Worlds by destroying the Rakshasas. You blessed even wicked Demons with Heaven. You have wiped the fear from our hearts posed by proud Rakshasas.
391. Salutations to the compassionate Mother.
392. Oh! Devi! The Universal Mother! Please safeguard us with your Trident, Sword, Twang of your Bow string and protect us with the sound of your Bell.
Note : The address "Ambika" implies that it is the duty of mother to protect her children.
393. The protector of Universe oh! Chandika! By turning your spear please guard us in the East, in the West, in the North and in the South.
394. Oh! Devi! Your peaceful forms and frightening forms that dwell in the Three Worlds do protect us.
395. Oh! Universal Mother! Please protect us with your hands holding the sword, spear and mace which resemble tender leaves.
Note : Even though She is holding harmful weapons Her hands did not
lose the tenderness.
Maharshi said :
396. All Gods sang in praise of Her and worshipped Her with Divine flowers available in "Nandanavana" (Garden in Heaven) and smeared sandal paste on Her. They adored Her with sweet, scented smoke. Devi who is appeased by the prayers of Gods addressed them.
397. Oh! Gods! I am very much pleased at your prayers and worship. You ask for boons. Your salutations and devotion made me happy. I have killed the valiant Mahishasura for the welfare of whole Universe. I am happy to perform or fulfil any difficult task you ask for! All the Gods overwhelmed with the graceful words of Devi, stood with folded hands out of reverence.
Gods said :
398. Oh! Bhagawati! With the destruction of
Mahishasura, you have left nothing unfulfilled and unachieved.
399. Oh! Maheswari! Please redeem us from dangers whenever we pray to you.
400. Oh! Devi! whenever human beings worship you with this prayer please bestow knowledge, cattle, prosperity and other riches befitting growth in their lives.
401. Oh! Mother! You bless us always.
402. Oh! Devi! You are the controller of all Gods. You have performed the greatest act of killing Demons and establishing peace in the world. This itself is a great favour done to us. Please bless us with such riches which keep our hearts and minds happy and delighted.
Rishi said :
403. Oh! Raja! All Gods worshipped Devi in various forms for their welfare and the well-being of the whole world. Goddess Bhadrakali accepted their prayers and disappeared.
404. Oh! Raja! In the beginning, I have described how Devi took Her form from the powers shared by all Gods for the benefit of the whole world.
405. Oh! Raja! I will narrate later, how Devi is born out of Gowri and destroyed wicked Chanda Mundasuras, Sumbha, Nisumbha in the form of Kowshiki. I will also enlighten you, how She, helped Gods when they were in need of Her help and protected the Three Worlds.
The story of 'Mahishasura Vadha’ is an extract from "Sri Devi Mahatmyam" which inturn is taken from
"Sri Markendaya Purana" with this the Third chapter of main book namely
'Navasathi Mantramala' is complete.
CHAPTER 4
OM NAMASCHANDlKAYAI
Rishi said :
406. Oh! King! Listen! The saint Kashyapa had a wife named Dhanu.
407. She gave birth to three sons who were stronger than Indra.
408. The eldest son’s name was Sumbha. The second one was Nisumbha. The last son was Namuchi, who was very brave and valiant.
409. Of them, Sumbha and Nisumbha, before reaching adolescence, did the great penance with a set purpose of defeating the Gods in war.
410. They did penance in the most sacred Pushkara kshethra, controlling senses and without taking food fourteen thousand years (1 0,000) which stunned even the Gods.
411. Pleased by their rigorous penance, Brahma, the creator, appeared before them and blessed them with powerful boons.
412. The brothers requested Brahma - “Oh! God! We should not be killed by Gods, Siddhas, Gandharwas, Kinnaras, and Human beings. Be it so that no man in the Universe could slay us”.
413. Brahma blessed them with the boon they asked for.
414. Being thus blessed by Brahma the two brothers started harassing the Gods in many ways.
415. Later a terrible war took place between Indra and Sumbha, Nisumbhas just as it earlier occurred between Indra and Mahishasura. The two brothers endowed with the great boons conferred by Brahma, defeated Gods very easily and confiscated Heaven, the abode of Gods. Naturally, the sacrificial benefits enjoyed by Gods and the throne of Indra, ruler of the three worlds, fell into their hands.
416. Both the brothers executed the powers wielded by the Sun, the Moon, Kubera, Yama and Varuna.
417. They also wielded the powers of Agni (Fire) and Vayu (Wind). All the Gods became powerless, defeated and banished from their posts.
418. Oh! King! The victorious and strong brothers appointed brave Rakshasas in the positions of deposed Gods.
419. The Gods who lost their powers and posts were driven away from their abode, prayed to Goddess who is capable of destroying the Rakshasas.
420. Earlier the Mother Goddess gave us a boon assuring protection from the great dangers whenever such need arises.
421. Thinking so and remembering of the boon bestowed on them by the Goddess, all the Gods reached Himalayas, the highest and pious mountain in the world. They invoked and prayed to the Goddess Vishnu Maya.
‘APARAJITHA SOOKTHAM’
(Prayer to the Goddess of Victory )
Gods prayed :422. Salutations to Devi.
423. Salutations to Maha Devi.
Note : (Mahadevas are Brahma, Vishnu and Lord Shiva. The power in the TRINITY is Devi.)
424. Salutations to Devi who is ever auspicious.
425. Salutations to the Primordial Nature.
426. We, the disciplined Gods offer our Salutations to the Goddess, the bestower of riches/ prosperity.
427. Salutations to the Goddess in the Terrible Form.
428. Salutations to the Goddess Eternal.
Note : Devi is Nithya and hence has no birth, no form, no growth or decay.
429. Salutations to Gowri. (Gowri means white/yellow and red complexion.)
430. Salutations to Mother Earth.
431. Salutations to the Goddess in the form of Moon Light.
432. Salutations to the Goddess in the form of Moon.
433. Salutations to the Goddess in the Form of Comforts or the bestower of comforts.
434. Salutations to Devi who does good to the whole world.
435. Salutations to the Goddess in the form of growth.
436. Salutations to the Goddess in the form of Attainment.
Note : Siddhi is attainment of power through severe penance.
Siddhi’s are eight in number - They are
1. Anima Ability to become small
2. Laghima Ability to become weight
3. Garima Ability to become big
4. Prapthi Ability to get whatever desired -
5. Eesitvam Ability to rule everything
6. Vasitvam Ability to control others
7. Mahima Ability to do anything
8. Prakamya Ability to condition others.
437. Salutations to the power of Vishnu (Vishnumaya) in the form of Divine Turtle.
Note : Sri Vishnu in the form of Divine Turtle carried the earth. That energy is Devi. Kurmi also means one who incarnates in many forms.
438. Salutations to Devi, the power of Goddess Niruthi.
Note : Niruthi also means poverty.
439. Salutations to Devi who is in the form of Pomp of Kings (Kingdom etc).
Note : It also means grandeur and riches of mountains are also Devi’s forms.
440. Salutations to Devi in the form of Sarvani.
Note : Bhagawan Siva is called Sarva.
441. Salutations to Durga Devi.
Note : It is impossible to know the greatness of Devi. Hence, She is Durga.
442. Salutations to Devi, the saviour from difficulties.
443. Salutations to Devi, the noblest.
444. Salutations to Devi, who discharges the functions of creation, protection, and Destruction/ Culmination of the Universe.
445. Salutations to Devi, the Intellect/wisdom.
446. Salutations to Devi with Black Complexion.
Note : Here dark complexion indicates vast expansion of the Eternity (Anamtatvam). Lord Narayana and His incarnations Rama and Krishna, the colour of ocean and sky are blue. Darkness should not therefore, be interpreted for “TAMOGUNA” which represents dullness and baser qualities.
447. Salutations to Devi in the Colour of Smoke.
448. Salutations to Devi, in both the Peaceful form, and the frightening form.
Note : Devi takes peaceful form for Her devotees and frightful form for Her enemies.
449. Salutations to Devi, the Judicious. (Dharma Swaroopini)
Note : Devi is called “Midhya Jagadadhistana”. Hence, She is “Jagatpratishta”. The whole Universe is ruled by Dharma. Devi is the very personification of Dharma.
450. Salutations to Devi Chandika in the form of Brightness.
451. Salutations to Devi in the form of Action.
452. Salutations to Devi who abides in all beings in the form of Vishnumaya.
453. Salutations to Devi repeatedly, who in all beings abides in the form of life consciousness.
454. Salutations to Devi again and again, who lives in all beings in the form of Intellect or Intelligence.
455. Salutations to Devi, who is present in all beings in the form of Sleep.
Note : “Chandogyopanishad” interprets sleeping as a state of one’s realization or unison with Goddess “Sat”. Just as a chained bird moves in various directions but unable to go free, gets tired and sleeps on the chain itself, so also a person drowned in the whirlpool of samsara, could not go free, gets tired and rests on the lap of Goddess “Sat”. Hence De vi is depicted as sleep.
456. Salutations to Devi who is dwelling in the form of Hunger in all beings.
Note : Chandogyopanishad describes “Jataragni” the fire in the body of a person that kindles hunger, as the very form of Devi. The divine light glowing over and above the sky having its brightness extended to the divine Satyaloka etc., is the same light that is burning in the form of digesting fire in a person’s stomach It is called “Jataragni”. So Light or Hunger is one form of Devi.
457. Salutations to Devi again and again, who is in the form of Shadow/reflection in all beings.
Note : Chaya means reflection, Soul is the reflection of Devi sadhakhya. She is untouched, unruffled and undisturbed by the pain and pleasure experienced by the physical body made up of the five elements. A reflection in a mirror remains un-touched by the dust parked on the mirror. Similarly, the reflection of Sun in the water is unaffected by the dirt present in the water. In the same manner Devi who enters the body in the form of soul is unaffected by the pain or pleasure the body suffers.
458. Salutations to Devi, who abides in all beings in the form of Power/Energy.
Note : The kinetic and potential energies present in all objects In the Universe are Devi’s forms only.
459. Salutations to Devi again and again who abides in all living beings in the form of Thirst/Ambition.
Note : The people who crave for the material benedictions are of “Rajoguna” and their thirst for improving their living standards, is Devi’s form. The thirst for knowledge in wise people is also Devi’s form.
460. Salutations to Devi who is residing in all beings in the form of Forgiveness.
461. Salutations to Devi who resides in all beings, in the form of Race or Genus.
462. Salutations to Devi who abides in all beings in the form of Modesty.
463. Salutations to Devi, who reveals in the form of Celibacy in all living beings.
Note : “Damam” means control of senses. It is one of the prime essentials for attaining peace and salvation. In Mahabharatha Bhishma upheld the quality of celibacy in high esteem. He equated it to charity, yagna, etc., A celibate should acquire qualities of forgiveness, patience, judiciousness, Ahimsa (nonviolence), control of senses, truthfulness, pleasing behaviour, averse to evil deeds, steady mind devoid of jealousy and tolerance. Anyone can attain celibacy, but in the case of Sanyasi who is devoid of these qualities, his life is a waste.
464. Salutations to Devi, who abides in the form of Peace in all living beings.
465. Salutations to Devi, who abides in all beings in the form of Sincerity/Concentration.
466. Salutations to Devi, who abides in all beings in the form of Loveliness/Beauty.
467. Salutations to Devi, who lives in the form of Fortune in all beings.
468. Salutations to Devi, who abides in all beings in the form of Steadiness/Composure.
Note : Sri Adi Shankaracharya in his Geetha Bhashya interpreted “Dhruti” as a power which averts the degeneration of physical, sensual, emotional and mental capabilities and develops steadiness and confidence.
469. Salutations to Devi, who abides in all beings in the form of Activity.
470. Salutations to Devi, who abides in all beings in the form of Memory.
471. Salutations to Devi, who abides in all beings in the form of Compassion.
Note : Geethaacharya described compassion as a divine virtue bestowed by Devi. The Goddess in the form of clouds roars through thunder as “DA, DA, DA” reminding the human race to practice Damam (celibacy), Daanam (charity) and Daya (compassion). Hence compassion is Devi’s form only.
472. Salutations to Devi, who resides in the form of Contentment in all beings.
473. Salutations to Devi, who reveals in the form of Mother in all living beings.
Note : Of all in the Universe, Mother is unique and there is no comparison to Her.
474. Salutations to Devi, who abides in the form of Doubt / Illusion / Error in all beings.
Note : A doubt arises when Devi is omniscient, how could She take the form of illusion? Devi is light. It is the cause for doubt or illusion. There is no scope for illusion in total darkness or clear light. In dim light only one mistakes a thread or snake. As illusion also is a kind of mental activity it is described as Devi’s form. Both Truth or illusion are the obverse and reverse forms of the Goddess.
475. Salutations to Devi, who is the Presiding deity of five senses and five elements and who is pervading through all living beings.
476. Salutations to Devi, who is Omnipresent in the form of Wisdom.
477. Devi who was invoked by Gods in the past and praised after the fulfilment of their desire, and worshipped by the Lord of Devas everyday may She, the Parameswari bestow all good and auspicious things to us and rescue us from all calamities.
478. We Devas who were tormented and tortured by the arrogant and valiant Rakshasas, are prostrating before Parameswari with all reverence. The moment we pray to Her, She would bless us with comforts and prosperity and destroy all our difficulties.
Rishi said:
479. Oh! King! When Devas had been praying to Her and praising Her, Parvathi Devi went to take bath in the river Ganges.
480. Parvathi Devi, the consort of Lord Shiva looked so beautiful as if Brahma poured all his creative skills into Her. She wishes the wellbeing of all creatures.
481. When Lord Shiva addressed Her as Kali (Dark complexioned) She did great penance and attained a Divine body with yellow or orange complexion.
482. From Her dark-complexioned physical sheath sprang forth an extra-ordinarily beautiful dark-complexioned Goddess named Shiva/Kausiki.
483. Like a daughter, Kausiki rendered services to Devi and stayed with Her.
484. With gracious looks Parvathi Devi questioned Devas whom they were worshipping? The Goddess Shiva who sprang out of Parvathi answered Her question.
485. “All Gods who were driven out of Heaven by Sumbha and defeated by Nisumbha in the battle are praying me” - said Goddess Shiva.
486. Goddess Shiva said that She would destroy all Rakshasas and please Lord Indra. Gowri listened Her words and told Her like this.
487. “You go to the southern peak of Himalayas near Bharathadesham, fulfil the wishes of Gods and return to Me afterwards”.
Rishi said :
488. Devi Gowri entrusted the responsibility of safeguarding the interests of Gods to Kausiki and went to take bath.
489. After taking bath She wore white dress and reached Her abode.
490. As Shiva/Ambika sprang forth from the physical sheath (Kosam) of Parvathi, She is glorified as Kausiki in all worlds.
491. Gouri Devi disappeared. Because Goddess Kausiki is also dark complexioned She is popularly known as ‘Kaalika’, She lived in Himalayan mountains.
Note : There is no difference between cause and effect. Hence the name Parvathi is used to represent Kausiki in this Mantra.
492. Later, two servants of Sumbha and Nisumbha named Chanda and Munda saw the most charming Ambika (Kausiki) in the mountains.
493. Both the servants reported to Sumbha and Nisumbha that they had seen a beautiful Lady who was filling the very mountains with Her grace and charm.
494. “Oh! King of the Rakshasas! None would have seen such a fascinating Lady anywhere! She must be a Divine person or Goddess. Enquire about Her and own Her”.
495. Oh! Ruler of Asuras! She is the best among all women with exquisitely beautiful structure. She is illuminating all the directions (whole place) with Her lustre. You should see Her once.
496. Oh! King! all the best things available in the Three Worlds like gems, horses, elephants, and other things are decorating your palace.
497. “Iravatha”, gem among elephants (White in colour), Paarijatha tree and Horse Uchaisravas, were snatched from Indra and brought home by you.
498. “You have brought the wonderful chariot drawn by Swans from Brahma and it stands in your courtyard ‘’.
499. “You have brought the treasure named
Mahapadma from Kubera, the lord of riches “.
500. The Goddess of Oceans presented you an unfading (ever-blossoming) garland of lotus flowers named “Kinjalkini”.
501. “Varuna’s gold showering (dripping) umbrella is possessed by you “.
502. “An excellent chariot, once owned by Prajapathi, is now in your possession “.
503. “Ohl king! You have taken away the ‘Sakthi’ weapon named “Uthkranthida” from the Lord of Death ‘’.
504. “Varuna’s noose is in your brother’s possession “.
505. “All kinds of gems born out of (found in) ocean are in the possession of Nisumbha.”
506. “Agni (the lord of Fire) presented you two garments woven with golden threads “.
507. Oh! King! You have brought all the best things of the world. She is the best among all women, with fine and beautiful features. Why do not you possess Her too?”.
Rishi Sumedhasa said :
508. Having heard Chanda and Munda’s words Sumbha sent his messenger named Sugreeva to Devi.
Sumbha said:
509. “You go and tell Her in my words convincingly and complete your mission that She may quickly come to me with love”.
Rishi said:
510. Sugreeva, the great politician, heard his King’s words and went to Devi along with his army.
511. Sugreeva went to the very beautiful spot in Himalayas where Devi was staying and talked to Her in sweet and soft words.
512. “Oh! Devi! I have come here as messenger of Sumbha, The king of Asuras and the sole sovereign of the Three Worlds”.
513. “Oh! Devi! Sumbha defeated all enemies of Asuras. All Devas obey his command. Please listen to the message sent by him”.
514. “All three worlds are mine and the Devas are obedient to me. The sacrificial shares of all Devas are individually and separately enjoyed by me”.
515. “All the precious things are in my possession. Even lndra’s Vahanam (Vehicle) Iravatha, is taken away by me”.
516. “The rarest of the horses, Uchchaisravasa, which sprang up at the time of churning the milk ocean, was offered to me by Devas”.
Note : The word “THU” in this Mantra indicates how the frightened Devas offered the divine horse UCCHAISRA VASA to Sumbha voluntarily when he forcefully snatched away the divine elephant IRAVATHA.
517. “Oh! Beautiful lady! All other rare things once possessed by Devas, Gandharvas and Nagas are in my possession at present”.
Note : Other rare things are the chariot drawn by swans, padmanidhi and paarijatha tree.
518. “Oh! Devi ! You are a gem of women in this world As we are enjoying all the gems in the world it will be appropriate if you accept our hand”.
Note: The words “VAYAM”, “ASMAN” addressing oneself in plural, indicates the self-pride of Sumbha Possessing the best things in the world is the quality of Rakshasas. Sumbha’s words resemble that of Ravana when he spoke to Devi Sitha. King Viswamitra also tried to confiscate and possess the divine cow Surabbhi from Rishi Vasishta but in vain and faced insult.
519. “Oh! Gem of a lady with unsteady looks! accept me or my valiant brother Nisumbha! “.
Note : Sumbha means that a gem should join another gem.
520. ‘Think of enjoying invaluable riches and wealth by marrying me and becoming my wife”.
Rishi said :
521. After listening to the words of the messenger, the supporter of the Universe and the most auspicious Goddess Durga Devi replied with a majestic smile.
Note : The adjective” Majestic” is meaningful in this Mantra Devi is the supporter of the Universe. Sumbha is nothing but a part of the Universe. Devi’s riches are inexhaustible, and She is the most auspicious. Offering Her riches and prosperity by Sumbha is a ridiculous act and reveals his foolishness and ego. That is why Devi smiled majestically.
522. Devi replied “You have talked realistically. Sumbha is the sovereign of Three worlds and his brother is equally valiant”.
523. “But I have foolishly taken a vow regarding my marriage. How I can neglect it now? You listen to it”.
524. “One who wins me in war, one who can make me submissive and one who is equal to me in strength, can alone become my husband”.
525. “So you go and ask Sumbha or Nisumbha to come and win over me in war and marry without delay”.
Note : The intrinsic meaning behind Devi’s words in the four earlier Mantras is this: “What you have described about atrocities committed by Sumbha and Nisumbha are true. They caused a flutter in the three worlds. I have promised to protect the Devathas and to annihilate those who trouble Brahma and Indra. How could I go back in my promise? If Sumbha and Nisumbha are prepared to die in my hands let them come to me without any delay.
The Messenger said :
526. “Ohl Devil You feel very proud of yourself. Is there anyone who could stand before Sumbha, Nisumbha in these three worlds?”.
527. “Leave alone Sumbha, Nisumbhas. None in these three worlds, or all Devas together, face the strength of Sumbha, Nisumbhas and their followers. How could you a single woman face the mighty Sumbha, Nisumbhas?”.
528. "How could a woman fight with Sumbha, Nisumbhas against whom even all Gods together fear to face in war?".
529. "Better you accept or listen to my words and go to Sumbha, Nisumbhas on your own. Otherwise you would be dragged forcibly to them at the cost of your respect."
Devi said :
530. "I do agree that both the brothers are extremely Valiant. But what happens to my oath taken in the past hastily?".
531. Devi asked the messenger to go back to his king Sumbha and narrate what all she said about her vow, so that the king of Asuras would react approximately.
The fourth chapter is dedicated to "Devi Vibhoothi Yogasthothra " and the conversation between Devi and the messenger 'Sugreeva' of Devi Mahatmyam in Markendeya Purana during the period of Savarni Manu in the main book "Navasathi Mantramala" is complete.
Rishi said :
406. Oh! King! Listen! The saint Kashyapa had a wife named Dhanu.
407. She gave birth to three sons who were stronger than Indra.
408. The eldest son’s name was Sumbha. The second one was Nisumbha. The last son was Namuchi, who was very brave and valiant.
409. Of them, Sumbha and Nisumbha, before reaching adolescence, did the great penance with a set purpose of defeating the Gods in war.
410. They did penance in the most sacred Pushkara kshethra, controlling senses and without taking food fourteen thousand years (1 0,000) which stunned even the Gods.
411. Pleased by their rigorous penance, Brahma, the creator, appeared before them and blessed them with powerful boons.
412. The brothers requested Brahma - “Oh! God! We should not be killed by Gods, Siddhas, Gandharwas, Kinnaras, and Human beings. Be it so that no man in the Universe could slay us”.
413. Brahma blessed them with the boon they asked for.
414. Being thus blessed by Brahma the two brothers started harassing the Gods in many ways.
415. Later a terrible war took place between Indra and Sumbha, Nisumbhas just as it earlier occurred between Indra and Mahishasura. The two brothers endowed with the great boons conferred by Brahma, defeated Gods very easily and confiscated Heaven, the abode of Gods. Naturally, the sacrificial benefits enjoyed by Gods and the throne of Indra, ruler of the three worlds, fell into their hands.
416. Both the brothers executed the powers wielded by the Sun, the Moon, Kubera, Yama and Varuna.
417. They also wielded the powers of Agni (Fire) and Vayu (Wind). All the Gods became powerless, defeated and banished from their posts.
418. Oh! King! The victorious and strong brothers appointed brave Rakshasas in the positions of deposed Gods.
419. The Gods who lost their powers and posts were driven away from their abode, prayed to Goddess who is capable of destroying the Rakshasas.
420. Earlier the Mother Goddess gave us a boon assuring protection from the great dangers whenever such need arises.
421. Thinking so and remembering of the boon bestowed on them by the Goddess, all the Gods reached Himalayas, the highest and pious mountain in the world. They invoked and prayed to the Goddess Vishnu Maya.
‘APARAJITHA SOOKTHAM’
(Prayer to the Goddess of Victory )
Gods prayed :422. Salutations to Devi.
423. Salutations to Maha Devi.
Note : (Mahadevas are Brahma, Vishnu and Lord Shiva. The power in the TRINITY is Devi.)
424. Salutations to Devi who is ever auspicious.
425. Salutations to the Primordial Nature.
426. We, the disciplined Gods offer our Salutations to the Goddess, the bestower of riches/ prosperity.
427. Salutations to the Goddess in the Terrible Form.
428. Salutations to the Goddess Eternal.
Note : Devi is Nithya and hence has no birth, no form, no growth or decay.
429. Salutations to Gowri. (Gowri means white/yellow and red complexion.)
430. Salutations to Mother Earth.
431. Salutations to the Goddess in the form of Moon Light.
432. Salutations to the Goddess in the form of Moon.
433. Salutations to the Goddess in the Form of Comforts or the bestower of comforts.
434. Salutations to Devi who does good to the whole world.
435. Salutations to the Goddess in the form of growth.
436. Salutations to the Goddess in the form of Attainment.
Note : Siddhi is attainment of power through severe penance.
Siddhi’s are eight in number - They are
1. Anima Ability to become small
2. Laghima Ability to become weight
3. Garima Ability to become big
4. Prapthi Ability to get whatever desired -
5. Eesitvam Ability to rule everything
6. Vasitvam Ability to control others
7. Mahima Ability to do anything
8. Prakamya Ability to condition others.
437. Salutations to the power of Vishnu (Vishnumaya) in the form of Divine Turtle.
Note : Sri Vishnu in the form of Divine Turtle carried the earth. That energy is Devi. Kurmi also means one who incarnates in many forms.
438. Salutations to Devi, the power of Goddess Niruthi.
Note : Niruthi also means poverty.
439. Salutations to Devi who is in the form of Pomp of Kings (Kingdom etc).
Note : It also means grandeur and riches of mountains are also Devi’s forms.
440. Salutations to Devi in the form of Sarvani.
Note : Bhagawan Siva is called Sarva.
441. Salutations to Durga Devi.
Note : It is impossible to know the greatness of Devi. Hence, She is Durga.
442. Salutations to Devi, the saviour from difficulties.
443. Salutations to Devi, the noblest.
444. Salutations to Devi, who discharges the functions of creation, protection, and Destruction/ Culmination of the Universe.
445. Salutations to Devi, the Intellect/wisdom.
446. Salutations to Devi with Black Complexion.
Note : Here dark complexion indicates vast expansion of the Eternity (Anamtatvam). Lord Narayana and His incarnations Rama and Krishna, the colour of ocean and sky are blue. Darkness should not therefore, be interpreted for “TAMOGUNA” which represents dullness and baser qualities.
447. Salutations to Devi in the Colour of Smoke.
448. Salutations to Devi, in both the Peaceful form, and the frightening form.
Note : Devi takes peaceful form for Her devotees and frightful form for Her enemies.
449. Salutations to Devi, the Judicious. (Dharma Swaroopini)
Note : Devi is called “Midhya Jagadadhistana”. Hence, She is “Jagatpratishta”. The whole Universe is ruled by Dharma. Devi is the very personification of Dharma.
450. Salutations to Devi Chandika in the form of Brightness.
451. Salutations to Devi in the form of Action.
452. Salutations to Devi who abides in all beings in the form of Vishnumaya.
453. Salutations to Devi repeatedly, who in all beings abides in the form of life consciousness.
454. Salutations to Devi again and again, who lives in all beings in the form of Intellect or Intelligence.
455. Salutations to Devi, who is present in all beings in the form of Sleep.
Note : “Chandogyopanishad” interprets sleeping as a state of one’s realization or unison with Goddess “Sat”. Just as a chained bird moves in various directions but unable to go free, gets tired and sleeps on the chain itself, so also a person drowned in the whirlpool of samsara, could not go free, gets tired and rests on the lap of Goddess “Sat”. Hence De vi is depicted as sleep.
456. Salutations to Devi who is dwelling in the form of Hunger in all beings.
Note : Chandogyopanishad describes “Jataragni” the fire in the body of a person that kindles hunger, as the very form of Devi. The divine light glowing over and above the sky having its brightness extended to the divine Satyaloka etc., is the same light that is burning in the form of digesting fire in a person’s stomach It is called “Jataragni”. So Light or Hunger is one form of Devi.
457. Salutations to Devi again and again, who is in the form of Shadow/reflection in all beings.
Note : Chaya means reflection, Soul is the reflection of Devi sadhakhya. She is untouched, unruffled and undisturbed by the pain and pleasure experienced by the physical body made up of the five elements. A reflection in a mirror remains un-touched by the dust parked on the mirror. Similarly, the reflection of Sun in the water is unaffected by the dirt present in the water. In the same manner Devi who enters the body in the form of soul is unaffected by the pain or pleasure the body suffers.
458. Salutations to Devi, who abides in all beings in the form of Power/Energy.
Note : The kinetic and potential energies present in all objects In the Universe are Devi’s forms only.
459. Salutations to Devi again and again who abides in all living beings in the form of Thirst/Ambition.
Note : The people who crave for the material benedictions are of “Rajoguna” and their thirst for improving their living standards, is Devi’s form. The thirst for knowledge in wise people is also Devi’s form.
460. Salutations to Devi who is residing in all beings in the form of Forgiveness.
461. Salutations to Devi who resides in all beings, in the form of Race or Genus.
462. Salutations to Devi who abides in all beings in the form of Modesty.
463. Salutations to Devi, who reveals in the form of Celibacy in all living beings.
Note : “Damam” means control of senses. It is one of the prime essentials for attaining peace and salvation. In Mahabharatha Bhishma upheld the quality of celibacy in high esteem. He equated it to charity, yagna, etc., A celibate should acquire qualities of forgiveness, patience, judiciousness, Ahimsa (nonviolence), control of senses, truthfulness, pleasing behaviour, averse to evil deeds, steady mind devoid of jealousy and tolerance. Anyone can attain celibacy, but in the case of Sanyasi who is devoid of these qualities, his life is a waste.
464. Salutations to Devi, who abides in the form of Peace in all living beings.
465. Salutations to Devi, who abides in all beings in the form of Sincerity/Concentration.
466. Salutations to Devi, who abides in all beings in the form of Loveliness/Beauty.
467. Salutations to Devi, who lives in the form of Fortune in all beings.
468. Salutations to Devi, who abides in all beings in the form of Steadiness/Composure.
Note : Sri Adi Shankaracharya in his Geetha Bhashya interpreted “Dhruti” as a power which averts the degeneration of physical, sensual, emotional and mental capabilities and develops steadiness and confidence.
469. Salutations to Devi, who abides in all beings in the form of Activity.
470. Salutations to Devi, who abides in all beings in the form of Memory.
471. Salutations to Devi, who abides in all beings in the form of Compassion.
Note : Geethaacharya described compassion as a divine virtue bestowed by Devi. The Goddess in the form of clouds roars through thunder as “DA, DA, DA” reminding the human race to practice Damam (celibacy), Daanam (charity) and Daya (compassion). Hence compassion is Devi’s form only.
472. Salutations to Devi, who resides in the form of Contentment in all beings.
473. Salutations to Devi, who reveals in the form of Mother in all living beings.
Note : Of all in the Universe, Mother is unique and there is no comparison to Her.
474. Salutations to Devi, who abides in the form of Doubt / Illusion / Error in all beings.
Note : A doubt arises when Devi is omniscient, how could She take the form of illusion? Devi is light. It is the cause for doubt or illusion. There is no scope for illusion in total darkness or clear light. In dim light only one mistakes a thread or snake. As illusion also is a kind of mental activity it is described as Devi’s form. Both Truth or illusion are the obverse and reverse forms of the Goddess.
475. Salutations to Devi, who is the Presiding deity of five senses and five elements and who is pervading through all living beings.
476. Salutations to Devi, who is Omnipresent in the form of Wisdom.
477. Devi who was invoked by Gods in the past and praised after the fulfilment of their desire, and worshipped by the Lord of Devas everyday may She, the Parameswari bestow all good and auspicious things to us and rescue us from all calamities.
478. We Devas who were tormented and tortured by the arrogant and valiant Rakshasas, are prostrating before Parameswari with all reverence. The moment we pray to Her, She would bless us with comforts and prosperity and destroy all our difficulties.
Rishi said:
479. Oh! King! When Devas had been praying to Her and praising Her, Parvathi Devi went to take bath in the river Ganges.
480. Parvathi Devi, the consort of Lord Shiva looked so beautiful as if Brahma poured all his creative skills into Her. She wishes the wellbeing of all creatures.
481. When Lord Shiva addressed Her as Kali (Dark complexioned) She did great penance and attained a Divine body with yellow or orange complexion.
482. From Her dark-complexioned physical sheath sprang forth an extra-ordinarily beautiful dark-complexioned Goddess named Shiva/Kausiki.
483. Like a daughter, Kausiki rendered services to Devi and stayed with Her.
484. With gracious looks Parvathi Devi questioned Devas whom they were worshipping? The Goddess Shiva who sprang out of Parvathi answered Her question.
485. “All Gods who were driven out of Heaven by Sumbha and defeated by Nisumbha in the battle are praying me” - said Goddess Shiva.
486. Goddess Shiva said that She would destroy all Rakshasas and please Lord Indra. Gowri listened Her words and told Her like this.
487. “You go to the southern peak of Himalayas near Bharathadesham, fulfil the wishes of Gods and return to Me afterwards”.
Rishi said :
488. Devi Gowri entrusted the responsibility of safeguarding the interests of Gods to Kausiki and went to take bath.
489. After taking bath She wore white dress and reached Her abode.
490. As Shiva/Ambika sprang forth from the physical sheath (Kosam) of Parvathi, She is glorified as Kausiki in all worlds.
491. Gouri Devi disappeared. Because Goddess Kausiki is also dark complexioned She is popularly known as ‘Kaalika’, She lived in Himalayan mountains.
Note : There is no difference between cause and effect. Hence the name Parvathi is used to represent Kausiki in this Mantra.
492. Later, two servants of Sumbha and Nisumbha named Chanda and Munda saw the most charming Ambika (Kausiki) in the mountains.
493. Both the servants reported to Sumbha and Nisumbha that they had seen a beautiful Lady who was filling the very mountains with Her grace and charm.
494. “Oh! King of the Rakshasas! None would have seen such a fascinating Lady anywhere! She must be a Divine person or Goddess. Enquire about Her and own Her”.
495. Oh! Ruler of Asuras! She is the best among all women with exquisitely beautiful structure. She is illuminating all the directions (whole place) with Her lustre. You should see Her once.
496. Oh! King! all the best things available in the Three Worlds like gems, horses, elephants, and other things are decorating your palace.
497. “Iravatha”, gem among elephants (White in colour), Paarijatha tree and Horse Uchaisravas, were snatched from Indra and brought home by you.
498. “You have brought the wonderful chariot drawn by Swans from Brahma and it stands in your courtyard ‘’.
499. “You have brought the treasure named
Mahapadma from Kubera, the lord of riches “.
500. The Goddess of Oceans presented you an unfading (ever-blossoming) garland of lotus flowers named “Kinjalkini”.
501. “Varuna’s gold showering (dripping) umbrella is possessed by you “.
502. “An excellent chariot, once owned by Prajapathi, is now in your possession “.
503. “Ohl king! You have taken away the ‘Sakthi’ weapon named “Uthkranthida” from the Lord of Death ‘’.
504. “Varuna’s noose is in your brother’s possession “.
505. “All kinds of gems born out of (found in) ocean are in the possession of Nisumbha.”
506. “Agni (the lord of Fire) presented you two garments woven with golden threads “.
507. Oh! King! You have brought all the best things of the world. She is the best among all women, with fine and beautiful features. Why do not you possess Her too?”.
Rishi Sumedhasa said :
508. Having heard Chanda and Munda’s words Sumbha sent his messenger named Sugreeva to Devi.
Sumbha said:
509. “You go and tell Her in my words convincingly and complete your mission that She may quickly come to me with love”.
Rishi said:
510. Sugreeva, the great politician, heard his King’s words and went to Devi along with his army.
511. Sugreeva went to the very beautiful spot in Himalayas where Devi was staying and talked to Her in sweet and soft words.
512. “Oh! Devi! I have come here as messenger of Sumbha, The king of Asuras and the sole sovereign of the Three Worlds”.
513. “Oh! Devi! Sumbha defeated all enemies of Asuras. All Devas obey his command. Please listen to the message sent by him”.
514. “All three worlds are mine and the Devas are obedient to me. The sacrificial shares of all Devas are individually and separately enjoyed by me”.
515. “All the precious things are in my possession. Even lndra’s Vahanam (Vehicle) Iravatha, is taken away by me”.
516. “The rarest of the horses, Uchchaisravasa, which sprang up at the time of churning the milk ocean, was offered to me by Devas”.
Note : The word “THU” in this Mantra indicates how the frightened Devas offered the divine horse UCCHAISRA VASA to Sumbha voluntarily when he forcefully snatched away the divine elephant IRAVATHA.
517. “Oh! Beautiful lady! All other rare things once possessed by Devas, Gandharvas and Nagas are in my possession at present”.
Note : Other rare things are the chariot drawn by swans, padmanidhi and paarijatha tree.
518. “Oh! Devi ! You are a gem of women in this world As we are enjoying all the gems in the world it will be appropriate if you accept our hand”.
Note: The words “VAYAM”, “ASMAN” addressing oneself in plural, indicates the self-pride of Sumbha Possessing the best things in the world is the quality of Rakshasas. Sumbha’s words resemble that of Ravana when he spoke to Devi Sitha. King Viswamitra also tried to confiscate and possess the divine cow Surabbhi from Rishi Vasishta but in vain and faced insult.
519. “Oh! Gem of a lady with unsteady looks! accept me or my valiant brother Nisumbha! “.
Note : Sumbha means that a gem should join another gem.
520. ‘Think of enjoying invaluable riches and wealth by marrying me and becoming my wife”.
Rishi said :
521. After listening to the words of the messenger, the supporter of the Universe and the most auspicious Goddess Durga Devi replied with a majestic smile.
Note : The adjective” Majestic” is meaningful in this Mantra Devi is the supporter of the Universe. Sumbha is nothing but a part of the Universe. Devi’s riches are inexhaustible, and She is the most auspicious. Offering Her riches and prosperity by Sumbha is a ridiculous act and reveals his foolishness and ego. That is why Devi smiled majestically.
522. Devi replied “You have talked realistically. Sumbha is the sovereign of Three worlds and his brother is equally valiant”.
523. “But I have foolishly taken a vow regarding my marriage. How I can neglect it now? You listen to it”.
524. “One who wins me in war, one who can make me submissive and one who is equal to me in strength, can alone become my husband”.
525. “So you go and ask Sumbha or Nisumbha to come and win over me in war and marry without delay”.
Note : The intrinsic meaning behind Devi’s words in the four earlier Mantras is this: “What you have described about atrocities committed by Sumbha and Nisumbha are true. They caused a flutter in the three worlds. I have promised to protect the Devathas and to annihilate those who trouble Brahma and Indra. How could I go back in my promise? If Sumbha and Nisumbha are prepared to die in my hands let them come to me without any delay.
The Messenger said :
526. “Ohl Devil You feel very proud of yourself. Is there anyone who could stand before Sumbha, Nisumbha in these three worlds?”.
527. “Leave alone Sumbha, Nisumbhas. None in these three worlds, or all Devas together, face the strength of Sumbha, Nisumbhas and their followers. How could you a single woman face the mighty Sumbha, Nisumbhas?”.
528. "How could a woman fight with Sumbha, Nisumbhas against whom even all Gods together fear to face in war?".
529. "Better you accept or listen to my words and go to Sumbha, Nisumbhas on your own. Otherwise you would be dragged forcibly to them at the cost of your respect."
Devi said :
530. "I do agree that both the brothers are extremely Valiant. But what happens to my oath taken in the past hastily?".
531. Devi asked the messenger to go back to his king Sumbha and narrate what all she said about her vow, so that the king of Asuras would react approximately.
The fourth chapter is dedicated to "Devi Vibhoothi Yogasthothra " and the conversation between Devi and the messenger 'Sugreeva' of Devi Mahatmyam in Markendeya Purana during the period of Savarni Manu in the main book "Navasathi Mantramala" is complete.
CHAPTER 5
OM NAMASCHANDIKA YAI
Rishi said:
532. Having heard the words of Devi, the messenger Sugreeva returned angrily and narrated the same in detail to Rakshasa Raja.
533. Rakshasa Raja Sumbha who listened his messenger’s words got enraged and said to his chieftain Dhoomralochana like this.
534. “Oh! Dhoomralochana! You go immediately along with your army, bring that wicked woman forcibly dragging, by holding locks of Her hair and making Her scream.
535. “If somebody tries to save Her, be it Amara, Yaksha or Gandharva kill him”.
Rishi said:
536. Being thus commanded by Sumbha, Dhoomralochana, the Rakshasa, immediately marched fast along with his sixty thousand army.
537. He saw Devi in Himalayas and commanded Her in a loud voice to go to Sumbha, Nisumbhas.
538. “Oh! Respectable lady! If you refuse to come willingly to my King Sumbha, I would forcibly drag you by your hair and take you to that place”.
Devi said:
539. “You are sent here by your king Sumbha. You are strong and accompanied by a huge army. If you take me there by force what can I do?”.
Note : The intrinsic meaning of Her words is “Oh-Rakshasa! you are weak and surrounded by crows sent here providentially. If you attempt to take me by force, I will destroy your ego.” It is described in Medical science that crows go round a dying man.
Rishi said :
540. Listening to Her words, Dhoomralochana the Rakshasa, ran towards Her. Ambika Devi reduced him into ashes with Her “Hum” sound.
541. The huge Rakshasa army got enraged and showered sharp arrows, axes and Sakthi weapons on Her.
542. Devi’s own vahana(vehicle} the Lion, shook its mane, roared angrily and leaped on the Asuras.
543. The Lion beat some Rakshasas with its paws and killed them.
544. Some other Rakshasas were killed with the fangs by the Lion.
545. The Lion killed some more Rakshasas tearing their chests.
546. The Lion tore away the intestines of some Asuras with its nails/paws.
547. The heads of some Asuras were severed with the blows of paws by the Lion.
548. The shoulders of some more Asuras were removed from their bodies by the Lion.
549. The Lion ferociously unfurled its mane and tore open the stomachs of Asuras and drank their blood.
550. Very huge in size, Devi vahana, the ferocious Lion, had destroyed the Asura army within a few seconds.
551. When Sumbha, the Asuras’ king learnt that Dhoomralochana was killed by Devi and Her Lion destroyed his army, his lips shivered with anger.
551-1. Then Sumbha ordered the great Asuras named Chanda and Munda.
552. “Oh! Chanda and Munda! March with a huge army and bring Her here immediately”.
553. “You drag Her by Her hair locks or bind Her and bring Her here. If you get any doubt, fight Her with your army using all kinds of weapons and even kill Her”.
Note : Sumbha proposed three alternatives to Chanda and Munda. Firstly, bring her dragging. If not possible bind Her alive or thirdly kill Her as a last resort if they fail in the other two.
554. “Kill that wicked woman and Her Lion and bring Her chained”.
Note : Sumbha first ordered the Asuras to kill Her. Later realizing that killing a woman is a sin and might affect his fame, he ordered them to get Her chained. He suspected that the woman residing in Himalayas would be the Consort of Lord Siva and hence addressed Her as Ambika.
Rishi said:
555. Being thus commanded by their king, Asuras marched with four different kinds of army, Viz: Elephants, Horses, Chariots, and Asuras, Chanda, and Munda as their chiefs, holding weapons ready to attack Her immediately.
556. Everybody marched ahead of others holding weapons like Trident (spear) and Pattisam very eager to capture Her.
557. The Asuras saw, Devi being seated on Her Lion and with a smile standing on the golden tip of the highest mountain peak in Himalayas.
Note : Having known well how Dhoomralochana and his army perished another set of Asuras marched again towards Devi. Hence, She smiled at their foolishness.
558. The proud Rakshasas aimed their arrows at Her and some approached holding sword in hand to tie Her up.
559. Then Ambika became very angry at Her enemies.
560. Her enraged face turned into black colour.
KALYA UDBHAVAHM(THE BIRTH OF KALI)
561. When Devi’s eyebrows twisted in anger, from Her broad forehead Kali with a frightening face holding sword and noose in hand, emerged.
562. Kali was holding a miraculous staff (Dandam) with enemy’s head fixed to it on its top. She wore an AHIMALA. A garland made up of snakes decorating Her neck. She was clad in tiger’s skin. She had a frightening look due to Her emaciated flesh and gaping mouth. With an outstretched swinging tongue and deep sunk redeyes, She looked very dreadful. She filled all directions of the sky with Her frightening roars. She fell on the army fiercely and slaughtered many Asura chiefs. She devoured the Rakshasa soldiers.
Note : Devi has been described as wearing the renowned divine snakes such as Sesha, Vasuki, Thakshaka etc., as Her ornaments. When She assumed a form to kill Mahishasura, She was presented with a chain of serpents by Adisesha, the great king of serpents, which she decorated on Her head. There is yet another description. Head is the seat of Sahasrara Chakra from which emerged forth Omkara, the Mother of all sounds and
alphabets, from which, in turn, the Vedas, Mantras etc were spontaneously born. Hence Devi, in the form of Omkara, has been described as wearing a gar/and made up of alphabets on Her head. Tantrics, however, described Kali as holding a cut-off head of a man which was oozing blood. This description is contrary to the very nature of Devi and owing to its fearful picturisation, has been condemned by the great Rishis, Tantrics’ description of Kali is aimed at propagating their perverted cult at the cost of Vedic culture.
563. Kali swallowed the elephants along with the Army guarding the elephants, mahouts (riders of elephants) including the bells, hanging by the sides of the elephants, scooping them with one hand.
564. Next, Kali flung into Her mouth, the horses along with their riders and chariots with the charioteers and started grinding them with Her frightening teeth.
565. The Kali held one by his hair.
566. The Kali held another by his neck.
567. She crushed one under Her foot.
568. She killed one by attacking with Her body (chest).
Note :- Though singular number is used in the above Mantras, She killed many in such methods.
569. Enraged Kali caught the weapons and arms shot by Asuras with Her mouth and chewed them with Her teeth.
570. The Kali destroyed the brave and wicked Asura army completely.
571. The Kali devoured (ate) some Rakshasas
572. The Kali killed some more Asuras kicking them with Her feet.
573. The Kali slained (slayed*) some with Her sword.
574. The Kali killed some with a staff mounted with enemy’s head.
575. She killed some Rakshasas biting with Her teeth.
576. Chanda observed the massacre caused by Kali to his Army and ran against Her who looked fiercely.
577. Munda, the great demon, released thousands of chakras and terrible arrows and covered Kali, the terrific eyed.
578. The innumerable discs which disappeared entering into Her mouth looked like numerous Suns disappearing into the dark clouds.
579. Then Kali, who was roaring frightfully, and with gleaming teeth in Her horrifying mouth, which was unbearable to look at, laughed terribly.
580. Devi Kali, lifting Her big sword making ‘Hum’ sound rushed towards Chanda.
581. She pulled him (Chanda) by his hair and severed his head with Her sword.
582. Seeing Chanda being slain, Munda also rushed towards Her.
583. In a fury, She fell Munda also with Her sword and threw him on the ground.
584. After seeing the valiant Chanda and Munda being killed, the remaining army got frightened and fled in all directions.
585. Kali carried the heads of Chanda and Munda in Her hands and approached Chandika with a loud laughter and said like this.
586. “In this battle of sacrifice, I have slain two great beasts, named Chanda and Munda as an offering and brought their heads. You can kill Sumbha and Nisumbha your-self.”
Note : Of all the branches of knowledge, the knowledge of the relation between the supreme spirit and the Individual (Jeevatma and Paramatma), is the greatest. A person lacking that knowledge is equivalent to a beast. Chanda and Munda, the Rakshasas, who could not know Devi, were meanest of all those beasts. However, Kali who killed them in the battle of sacrifice, sent them to Heaven. That is why Devi is praised as PASU PASA VIMOCHANI.
Rishi said:
587. After seeing the heads of Chanda and Munda brought to Her by Kali, the auspicious Chandika talked to Her in sweet words.
588. “Oh! Devi! you have brought the heads of Chanda and Munda. Hence You shall be famous in the world by the name ‘Chamunda’.
The fifth Chapter of ‘Navasathi Mantramala’
The Slaying of Chanda and Munda in the story of Sri Devi Mahatmyam narrated in “Markendeya Maha Purana” during the period of Savarnika Manu is complete.
Rishi said:
532. Having heard the words of Devi, the messenger Sugreeva returned angrily and narrated the same in detail to Rakshasa Raja.
533. Rakshasa Raja Sumbha who listened his messenger’s words got enraged and said to his chieftain Dhoomralochana like this.
534. “Oh! Dhoomralochana! You go immediately along with your army, bring that wicked woman forcibly dragging, by holding locks of Her hair and making Her scream.
535. “If somebody tries to save Her, be it Amara, Yaksha or Gandharva kill him”.
Rishi said:
536. Being thus commanded by Sumbha, Dhoomralochana, the Rakshasa, immediately marched fast along with his sixty thousand army.
537. He saw Devi in Himalayas and commanded Her in a loud voice to go to Sumbha, Nisumbhas.
538. “Oh! Respectable lady! If you refuse to come willingly to my King Sumbha, I would forcibly drag you by your hair and take you to that place”.
Devi said:
539. “You are sent here by your king Sumbha. You are strong and accompanied by a huge army. If you take me there by force what can I do?”.
Note : The intrinsic meaning of Her words is “Oh-Rakshasa! you are weak and surrounded by crows sent here providentially. If you attempt to take me by force, I will destroy your ego.” It is described in Medical science that crows go round a dying man.
Rishi said :
540. Listening to Her words, Dhoomralochana the Rakshasa, ran towards Her. Ambika Devi reduced him into ashes with Her “Hum” sound.
541. The huge Rakshasa army got enraged and showered sharp arrows, axes and Sakthi weapons on Her.
542. Devi’s own vahana(vehicle} the Lion, shook its mane, roared angrily and leaped on the Asuras.
543. The Lion beat some Rakshasas with its paws and killed them.
544. Some other Rakshasas were killed with the fangs by the Lion.
545. The Lion killed some more Rakshasas tearing their chests.
546. The Lion tore away the intestines of some Asuras with its nails/paws.
547. The heads of some Asuras were severed with the blows of paws by the Lion.
548. The shoulders of some more Asuras were removed from their bodies by the Lion.
549. The Lion ferociously unfurled its mane and tore open the stomachs of Asuras and drank their blood.
550. Very huge in size, Devi vahana, the ferocious Lion, had destroyed the Asura army within a few seconds.
551. When Sumbha, the Asuras’ king learnt that Dhoomralochana was killed by Devi and Her Lion destroyed his army, his lips shivered with anger.
551-1. Then Sumbha ordered the great Asuras named Chanda and Munda.
552. “Oh! Chanda and Munda! March with a huge army and bring Her here immediately”.
553. “You drag Her by Her hair locks or bind Her and bring Her here. If you get any doubt, fight Her with your army using all kinds of weapons and even kill Her”.
Note : Sumbha proposed three alternatives to Chanda and Munda. Firstly, bring her dragging. If not possible bind Her alive or thirdly kill Her as a last resort if they fail in the other two.
554. “Kill that wicked woman and Her Lion and bring Her chained”.
Note : Sumbha first ordered the Asuras to kill Her. Later realizing that killing a woman is a sin and might affect his fame, he ordered them to get Her chained. He suspected that the woman residing in Himalayas would be the Consort of Lord Siva and hence addressed Her as Ambika.
Rishi said:
555. Being thus commanded by their king, Asuras marched with four different kinds of army, Viz: Elephants, Horses, Chariots, and Asuras, Chanda, and Munda as their chiefs, holding weapons ready to attack Her immediately.
556. Everybody marched ahead of others holding weapons like Trident (spear) and Pattisam very eager to capture Her.
557. The Asuras saw, Devi being seated on Her Lion and with a smile standing on the golden tip of the highest mountain peak in Himalayas.
Note : Having known well how Dhoomralochana and his army perished another set of Asuras marched again towards Devi. Hence, She smiled at their foolishness.
558. The proud Rakshasas aimed their arrows at Her and some approached holding sword in hand to tie Her up.
559. Then Ambika became very angry at Her enemies.
560. Her enraged face turned into black colour.
KALYA UDBHAVAHM(THE BIRTH OF KALI)
561. When Devi’s eyebrows twisted in anger, from Her broad forehead Kali with a frightening face holding sword and noose in hand, emerged.
562. Kali was holding a miraculous staff (Dandam) with enemy’s head fixed to it on its top. She wore an AHIMALA. A garland made up of snakes decorating Her neck. She was clad in tiger’s skin. She had a frightening look due to Her emaciated flesh and gaping mouth. With an outstretched swinging tongue and deep sunk redeyes, She looked very dreadful. She filled all directions of the sky with Her frightening roars. She fell on the army fiercely and slaughtered many Asura chiefs. She devoured the Rakshasa soldiers.
Note : Devi has been described as wearing the renowned divine snakes such as Sesha, Vasuki, Thakshaka etc., as Her ornaments. When She assumed a form to kill Mahishasura, She was presented with a chain of serpents by Adisesha, the great king of serpents, which she decorated on Her head. There is yet another description. Head is the seat of Sahasrara Chakra from which emerged forth Omkara, the Mother of all sounds and
alphabets, from which, in turn, the Vedas, Mantras etc were spontaneously born. Hence Devi, in the form of Omkara, has been described as wearing a gar/and made up of alphabets on Her head. Tantrics, however, described Kali as holding a cut-off head of a man which was oozing blood. This description is contrary to the very nature of Devi and owing to its fearful picturisation, has been condemned by the great Rishis, Tantrics’ description of Kali is aimed at propagating their perverted cult at the cost of Vedic culture.
563. Kali swallowed the elephants along with the Army guarding the elephants, mahouts (riders of elephants) including the bells, hanging by the sides of the elephants, scooping them with one hand.
564. Next, Kali flung into Her mouth, the horses along with their riders and chariots with the charioteers and started grinding them with Her frightening teeth.
565. The Kali held one by his hair.
566. The Kali held another by his neck.
567. She crushed one under Her foot.
568. She killed one by attacking with Her body (chest).
Note :- Though singular number is used in the above Mantras, She killed many in such methods.
569. Enraged Kali caught the weapons and arms shot by Asuras with Her mouth and chewed them with Her teeth.
570. The Kali destroyed the brave and wicked Asura army completely.
571. The Kali devoured (ate) some Rakshasas
572. The Kali killed some more Asuras kicking them with Her feet.
573. The Kali slained (slayed*) some with Her sword.
574. The Kali killed some with a staff mounted with enemy’s head.
575. She killed some Rakshasas biting with Her teeth.
576. Chanda observed the massacre caused by Kali to his Army and ran against Her who looked fiercely.
577. Munda, the great demon, released thousands of chakras and terrible arrows and covered Kali, the terrific eyed.
578. The innumerable discs which disappeared entering into Her mouth looked like numerous Suns disappearing into the dark clouds.
579. Then Kali, who was roaring frightfully, and with gleaming teeth in Her horrifying mouth, which was unbearable to look at, laughed terribly.
580. Devi Kali, lifting Her big sword making ‘Hum’ sound rushed towards Chanda.
581. She pulled him (Chanda) by his hair and severed his head with Her sword.
582. Seeing Chanda being slain, Munda also rushed towards Her.
583. In a fury, She fell Munda also with Her sword and threw him on the ground.
584. After seeing the valiant Chanda and Munda being killed, the remaining army got frightened and fled in all directions.
585. Kali carried the heads of Chanda and Munda in Her hands and approached Chandika with a loud laughter and said like this.
586. “In this battle of sacrifice, I have slain two great beasts, named Chanda and Munda as an offering and brought their heads. You can kill Sumbha and Nisumbha your-self.”
Note : Of all the branches of knowledge, the knowledge of the relation between the supreme spirit and the Individual (Jeevatma and Paramatma), is the greatest. A person lacking that knowledge is equivalent to a beast. Chanda and Munda, the Rakshasas, who could not know Devi, were meanest of all those beasts. However, Kali who killed them in the battle of sacrifice, sent them to Heaven. That is why Devi is praised as PASU PASA VIMOCHANI.
Rishi said:
587. After seeing the heads of Chanda and Munda brought to Her by Kali, the auspicious Chandika talked to Her in sweet words.
588. “Oh! Devi! you have brought the heads of Chanda and Munda. Hence You shall be famous in the world by the name ‘Chamunda’.
The fifth Chapter of ‘Navasathi Mantramala’
The Slaying of Chanda and Munda in the story of Sri Devi Mahatmyam narrated in “Markendeya Maha Purana” during the period of Savarnika Manu is complete.
CHAPTER 6
OM NAMASCHANDIKA YAl
Rishi said :
589. Sumbha, the king of Asuras got angry when Chanda and Munda were killed, and a huge army was destroyed in the battle.
580. The valiant Sumbha engulfed in rage, commanded all battalions of Rakshasas to get prepared for the war.
591. He ordered eighty-six Rakshasa Chieftains who were always ready to march along with their armies.
Note : UDHA YUDHAS are chieftains always holding weapons and ready to fight.
592. “Let eighty skilled chieftains from the ‘Kambu’ named commandos, along with their armies march for war”.
593. “I command eighty Rakshasa commandos named ‘Kotiviryas’ to march towards battle”.
Note : The extremely valiant are KOTIVIRYAS.
594. “I command a hundred Asura commandos from Dhoomravamsa’ to start for the battle”.
595. “I order the Rakshasas of ‘kalavamsa’ to start immediately for the battle”.
596. “I command ‘Durhruda Vamsa’ Rakshasas to start speedily for the battle”.
597. “I order the ‘Muravamsa’ Rakshasas to get prepared for the war speedily”.
598. “I command the Rakshasas belonging to ‘Kaalakaavamsa’ to get ready for the war immediately”.
Rishi said:
599. Sumbha, the authoritative king of Asuras, commanded everybody, and himself marched with a huge army to the battle.
600. Thousands of dark clouds appeared there.
601. Those dark clouds showered bones, blood and muddy water.
602. Wild animals roared ferociously. The wolves cried loudly.
603. Sumbha ignored all these bad omens and proceeded towards the Himalayas.
604. Kausiki observed the terrible army approaching and filled the space between the earth and the sky with the twang of Her bowstring.
605. Oh! King! (Suratha)! Then the Lion roared loudly many a time.
606. That sound was multiplied by the sound of Ambika’s Divine Bell.
607. Kali opened Her wide mouth and filled the air in all directions with Her loud cries. The deadly sound produced by Her overwhelmed the twang of Her bowstring, the roar of the Lion and the clang of Her Bell.
608. On hearing that roar, the enraged Asura armies surrounded the Lion, Kaali and Kausiki on all sides.
609. Oh King! At this moment, to destroy the Rakshasas and for the wellbeing of Devas, the most valiant and strong Sakthis’ emerged from the bodies of Brahma Vishnu, Shiva, Indra and Guha in their respective forms and went to Chandika.
Note : Brahma and other Devas were present in the sky observing the battle. From Sri Vishnu three Sakthis’ named Vaishnavi, Varahi and Narasimhi emerged. From Brahma, Siva, Indra, and Guha each of their Sakthis’ emerged.
610. Each Sakthi emerged from the particular Deva, took the respective form, wore the very ornaments and mounted the respective Vahana and advanced to fight with the Asuras.
611. In a Heavenly Chariot drawn by swans wearing a rosary (Akshasutra) and Kamandalam, Brahma’s Sakthi advanced first. She is called ‘Brahmani’.
612. Maheswari arrived on a Bull, holding a fine Trident and wearing bracelets of great snakes named Sesha, Vasuki, and Thakshaka. A crescent moon also added to Her decoration.
613. Kaumari, the Sakthi emerged from Kumara Swami took his own form holding Sakthi weapon in hand and riding on peacock, arrived to fight with the Asuras.
614. In the same manner Vishnu’s Sakthi ‘Vaishnavi’ carne riding on Garuda and holding holy Conch, Disc, Mace, the Bow Saranga and Sword in Her hands.
615. The Varahi, Sakthi of the incomparable sacrificial boar form of Vishnu, arrived in the same form to the battlefield.
616. The Sakthi of Narasimha arrived in the battlefield in the form of Narasimhi and disturbed the constellations by shaking Her Mane.
617. The Sakthi Indri which emerged out from Indra arrived holding the Thunder bolt in Her Hand and riding on Iravatha. Like Indra She too had thousand eyes.
618. Then Lord Maheswara surrounded by the Sakthis’ of Devas, said to Kausiki, “Let the Rakshasas be destroyed quickly to satisfy me”.
Rishi said:
619. Then from the body of Kausiki the most deadly and frightening Sakthi named Chandika, emerged yelling like a hundred jackals.
620. The invincible Chandika told Maheswara, one who wore the dark coloured matted locks, “Oh ! My Lord! you should go to Sumbha and Nisumbha as ambassador”.
Note : “Neethi Rahasya” enumerated the qualities of an Ambassador like this : He must be capable, trustworthy, pure at heart, magnanimous, intelligent, could talk with composure, could grasp the secrets of others and great. in all respects. Bhagawan Anjaneya and Sri Krishna possessed these qualities.
621. “Convey my words to the proud Rakshasas Sumbha and Nisumbha and other Asuras who assembled there for fight”.
622. “Oh! Rakshasas! ‘Hand over to Indra, the power to rule the three worlds. Return the sacrificial shares to the respective Devas. Go to the nether world if you wish to survive”.
623. “In case being proud of your strength, you prefer to fight, get ready for that. Let your flesh gratify Kali and other Sakthis’ of mine”.
Rishi said:
624. As Chandika Devi. The Sakthi born out of the body of Kausiki engaged Lord Shiva to go as an ambassador, She, thereafter, came to be called as “Shivadoothi” in the world.
625. Having heard the words of Devi through Lord Shiva, Sumbha and other Asuras got enraged and went to the place where Devi Kathyayani resides.
Note : Sivapurana states that Devi was born at KATHAMUNI’S hermitage and was brought up by him. Hence, She is known as KATHYAYANI.
626. The Rakshasas with increased rage showered arrows, Sakthi weapons and double-edged swords on Devi Kausiki.
627. The arrows, spears, Sakthi weapons and paraswadhas thrown by Rakshasas were easily smashed by Devi with Her bow and arrows, producing great sound from the twang of the bow-string.
628. At that time, in front of Her, Kali torn the enemies with Her Trident and killed them piercing Her skull-topped staff into their bodies.
629. Brahmani, wherever She had gone, sprinkled the holy water from Her Kamandala on the enemies, to reduce their strength and enthusiasm.
630. Maheswari killed the Rakshasas with Her Trident.
631. And Vaishnavi beheaded the Asuras with Her discus.
632. And the very wrathful Kaumari had slain Rakshasas with Her “Shakthi” weapon.
633. Hundreds of Rakshasas who were torn into pieces by the Thunderbolt of Indrani fell on the ground and rolled in the blood streams.
634. Shattered by the massive blows of Varahi with Her snout, with torn chests by Her pointed tusks and severed by Her discus, many Asuras fell on the ground.
635. Narasimhi filled all directions with Her violent roars and roamed here and there in the battlefield, devouring the Rakshasas torn with Her sharp claws.
636. The violent and hilarious laughter of Shivadoothi made Rakshasas unconscious.
637. The unconscious Asuras fell on the ground.
638. She devoured the Asuras who had fallen down on the ground.
639. Seeing, the enraged Mathruganas (Sakthis) destroying the great Asuras in many ways, Sumbha’s forces started fleeing.
640. Seeing the Rakshasas being harassed by Mathruganas and fleeing, Rakthabeeja the great Asura got angry and came forward to fight.
641. Rakthabeeja is the eldest son of Krodhavathi, who is the sister of Sumbha and Nisumbha. He has great strength, valour and power.
642. Whenever a drop of blood from the body of Rakthabeeja falls on the ground, a Rakshasa of equal stature springs up from the earth.
643. That great Asura, with mace in his hand, fought with Indra’s Sakthi Indrani.
644. Then Indri (Indrani) struck Rakthabeeja with Her Thunderbolt.
645. Being hit by the Thunderbolt, blood flowed profusely from the body of Rakthabeeja.
646. In form and valour equivalent to that of Rakthabeeja, many valiant Rakshasas sprang up immediately.
647. In proportion to the number of drops of blood shed from his body, equal number of Rakshasas with strength, valour and ability came to life.
648. Those born out of his dropping blood, also exhibited equal dexterity in using fearful sastras while fighting with Mathru Ganas.
649. The Thunderbolt of Indrani again crushed the head of Rakthabeeja and blood flowed from his head. From that blood thousands of replicas were born.
650. Vaishnavi also struck the Rakthbeeja with Her discus.
651. Indri hit the Lord of Asuras with Her mace.
652. The whole world was filled up (populated) with the great Asuras of equal strength and calibre as that of Rakthabeeja, who came out of his blood when Vaishnavi cut him with Her discus.
653. Kaumari beat him with Her Sakthi weapon.
654. And Varahi hit Rakthabeeja with Her sword.
655. Maheswari stabbed Rakthabeeja with Her Trident.
656. Brahmani beat Rakthabeeja in his chest with Her Brahma Danda (Sublime stick).
657. Narasimhi tore his chest with Her claws. But he remained unsullied.
658. The great Asura Rakthabeeja who was born in the family of ‘Dithi’ became furious and struck every one of the Sakthis’, separately with his club.
659. Being beat with different weapons like Sakthi and spear, Rakthabeeja’s blood fell on the ground and flowed down. From that blood hundreds of Rakshasas were born.
660. The Asuras born out of Rakthabeeja’s blood filled the whole Universe.
661. The Devas were very much frightened at this.
662. The Devas who were watching the battle from above conversed. “A great Asura like him was not born in the past. None would be born in future. Even at present there is none equivalent to Rakthabeeja.”
663. Seeing the dejected condition of Devas, Chandika smiled and said to Kali like this. “Hey! Chamunde! You open out your mouth widely.”
Note : Addressing Kali as “Chemunde” denotes that She should contribute for the death of Rakthabeeja also, as done earlier in the case of Chanda and Munda.
664. "When I strike him with my powerful weapons, with your widened mouth You quickly swallow the blood drops oozing from Rakthabeeja, before they touch the ground.”
665. “You roam about in the battlefield devouring the Asuras born out of his blood. In this way this Rakshasa exhausts his blood and perishes at last”.
666. “As you devour these deadly Asuras new Rakthabeejas would not be born afresh. In this way the Asura Rakthabeeja gets destroyed”.
Rishi said:
667. Having said these words Kausiki Devi stabbed Rakthabeeja with Her trident.
668. Kali drank Rakthbeeja’s blood with Her mouth.
669. Then Rakthabeeja in that war, forcefully struck Chandika with his mace.
670. That massive blow from his mace did not cause slightest pain to Her.
671. Devi also struck that wicked Asura with Her mace.
672. He hit Devi Chamunda with his mace on Her face and waist.
673. Seeing his speed in war, the most ferocious and valiant Chandika struck him in his chest with the tip of Her Dart.
674. Being beaten like this, blood gushed out from the body of the Asura. Immediately Devi Chamunda swallowed the blood oozing out of his body.
675. The Asuras born from the blood fell into Her mouth, were immediately chewed and swallowed. She drank his blood too.
676. Devi Kausiki struck him with Her spear, thunderbolt, arrows, swords and double-edged weapons. Chamunda Devi drank blood flowed from his body instantly.
677. Oh! King! (Suratha!) The great Asura Rakthabeeja, who was stricken with many weapons, became bloodless and fell on the ground.
678. And many other Rakshasas were killed by those Mathru Ganas.
679. Oh! King! Then the Devas derived immeasurable joy.
680. The Mathru Ganas who sprang from those Devas, being intoxicated with blood/danced.
681. Gandharvas, Apsaras and Siddhas showered flowers and danced.
The sixth Chapter of main book Navasathi Mantramala “Slaying of Rakthabeejasura” of Sri Devi Mahatmyam taken from Sri Markendeya Maha Purana, during the period of Savarni Manu is complete.
Rishi said :
589. Sumbha, the king of Asuras got angry when Chanda and Munda were killed, and a huge army was destroyed in the battle.
580. The valiant Sumbha engulfed in rage, commanded all battalions of Rakshasas to get prepared for the war.
591. He ordered eighty-six Rakshasa Chieftains who were always ready to march along with their armies.
Note : UDHA YUDHAS are chieftains always holding weapons and ready to fight.
592. “Let eighty skilled chieftains from the ‘Kambu’ named commandos, along with their armies march for war”.
593. “I command eighty Rakshasa commandos named ‘Kotiviryas’ to march towards battle”.
Note : The extremely valiant are KOTIVIRYAS.
594. “I command a hundred Asura commandos from Dhoomravamsa’ to start for the battle”.
595. “I order the Rakshasas of ‘kalavamsa’ to start immediately for the battle”.
596. “I command ‘Durhruda Vamsa’ Rakshasas to start speedily for the battle”.
597. “I order the ‘Muravamsa’ Rakshasas to get prepared for the war speedily”.
598. “I command the Rakshasas belonging to ‘Kaalakaavamsa’ to get ready for the war immediately”.
Rishi said:
599. Sumbha, the authoritative king of Asuras, commanded everybody, and himself marched with a huge army to the battle.
600. Thousands of dark clouds appeared there.
601. Those dark clouds showered bones, blood and muddy water.
602. Wild animals roared ferociously. The wolves cried loudly.
603. Sumbha ignored all these bad omens and proceeded towards the Himalayas.
604. Kausiki observed the terrible army approaching and filled the space between the earth and the sky with the twang of Her bowstring.
605. Oh! King! (Suratha)! Then the Lion roared loudly many a time.
606. That sound was multiplied by the sound of Ambika’s Divine Bell.
607. Kali opened Her wide mouth and filled the air in all directions with Her loud cries. The deadly sound produced by Her overwhelmed the twang of Her bowstring, the roar of the Lion and the clang of Her Bell.
608. On hearing that roar, the enraged Asura armies surrounded the Lion, Kaali and Kausiki on all sides.
609. Oh King! At this moment, to destroy the Rakshasas and for the wellbeing of Devas, the most valiant and strong Sakthis’ emerged from the bodies of Brahma Vishnu, Shiva, Indra and Guha in their respective forms and went to Chandika.
Note : Brahma and other Devas were present in the sky observing the battle. From Sri Vishnu three Sakthis’ named Vaishnavi, Varahi and Narasimhi emerged. From Brahma, Siva, Indra, and Guha each of their Sakthis’ emerged.
610. Each Sakthi emerged from the particular Deva, took the respective form, wore the very ornaments and mounted the respective Vahana and advanced to fight with the Asuras.
611. In a Heavenly Chariot drawn by swans wearing a rosary (Akshasutra) and Kamandalam, Brahma’s Sakthi advanced first. She is called ‘Brahmani’.
612. Maheswari arrived on a Bull, holding a fine Trident and wearing bracelets of great snakes named Sesha, Vasuki, and Thakshaka. A crescent moon also added to Her decoration.
613. Kaumari, the Sakthi emerged from Kumara Swami took his own form holding Sakthi weapon in hand and riding on peacock, arrived to fight with the Asuras.
614. In the same manner Vishnu’s Sakthi ‘Vaishnavi’ carne riding on Garuda and holding holy Conch, Disc, Mace, the Bow Saranga and Sword in Her hands.
615. The Varahi, Sakthi of the incomparable sacrificial boar form of Vishnu, arrived in the same form to the battlefield.
616. The Sakthi of Narasimha arrived in the battlefield in the form of Narasimhi and disturbed the constellations by shaking Her Mane.
617. The Sakthi Indri which emerged out from Indra arrived holding the Thunder bolt in Her Hand and riding on Iravatha. Like Indra She too had thousand eyes.
618. Then Lord Maheswara surrounded by the Sakthis’ of Devas, said to Kausiki, “Let the Rakshasas be destroyed quickly to satisfy me”.
Rishi said:
619. Then from the body of Kausiki the most deadly and frightening Sakthi named Chandika, emerged yelling like a hundred jackals.
620. The invincible Chandika told Maheswara, one who wore the dark coloured matted locks, “Oh ! My Lord! you should go to Sumbha and Nisumbha as ambassador”.
Note : “Neethi Rahasya” enumerated the qualities of an Ambassador like this : He must be capable, trustworthy, pure at heart, magnanimous, intelligent, could talk with composure, could grasp the secrets of others and great. in all respects. Bhagawan Anjaneya and Sri Krishna possessed these qualities.
621. “Convey my words to the proud Rakshasas Sumbha and Nisumbha and other Asuras who assembled there for fight”.
622. “Oh! Rakshasas! ‘Hand over to Indra, the power to rule the three worlds. Return the sacrificial shares to the respective Devas. Go to the nether world if you wish to survive”.
623. “In case being proud of your strength, you prefer to fight, get ready for that. Let your flesh gratify Kali and other Sakthis’ of mine”.
Rishi said:
624. As Chandika Devi. The Sakthi born out of the body of Kausiki engaged Lord Shiva to go as an ambassador, She, thereafter, came to be called as “Shivadoothi” in the world.
625. Having heard the words of Devi through Lord Shiva, Sumbha and other Asuras got enraged and went to the place where Devi Kathyayani resides.
Note : Sivapurana states that Devi was born at KATHAMUNI’S hermitage and was brought up by him. Hence, She is known as KATHYAYANI.
626. The Rakshasas with increased rage showered arrows, Sakthi weapons and double-edged swords on Devi Kausiki.
627. The arrows, spears, Sakthi weapons and paraswadhas thrown by Rakshasas were easily smashed by Devi with Her bow and arrows, producing great sound from the twang of the bow-string.
628. At that time, in front of Her, Kali torn the enemies with Her Trident and killed them piercing Her skull-topped staff into their bodies.
629. Brahmani, wherever She had gone, sprinkled the holy water from Her Kamandala on the enemies, to reduce their strength and enthusiasm.
630. Maheswari killed the Rakshasas with Her Trident.
631. And Vaishnavi beheaded the Asuras with Her discus.
632. And the very wrathful Kaumari had slain Rakshasas with Her “Shakthi” weapon.
633. Hundreds of Rakshasas who were torn into pieces by the Thunderbolt of Indrani fell on the ground and rolled in the blood streams.
634. Shattered by the massive blows of Varahi with Her snout, with torn chests by Her pointed tusks and severed by Her discus, many Asuras fell on the ground.
635. Narasimhi filled all directions with Her violent roars and roamed here and there in the battlefield, devouring the Rakshasas torn with Her sharp claws.
636. The violent and hilarious laughter of Shivadoothi made Rakshasas unconscious.
637. The unconscious Asuras fell on the ground.
638. She devoured the Asuras who had fallen down on the ground.
639. Seeing, the enraged Mathruganas (Sakthis) destroying the great Asuras in many ways, Sumbha’s forces started fleeing.
640. Seeing the Rakshasas being harassed by Mathruganas and fleeing, Rakthabeeja the great Asura got angry and came forward to fight.
641. Rakthabeeja is the eldest son of Krodhavathi, who is the sister of Sumbha and Nisumbha. He has great strength, valour and power.
642. Whenever a drop of blood from the body of Rakthabeeja falls on the ground, a Rakshasa of equal stature springs up from the earth.
643. That great Asura, with mace in his hand, fought with Indra’s Sakthi Indrani.
644. Then Indri (Indrani) struck Rakthabeeja with Her Thunderbolt.
645. Being hit by the Thunderbolt, blood flowed profusely from the body of Rakthabeeja.
646. In form and valour equivalent to that of Rakthabeeja, many valiant Rakshasas sprang up immediately.
647. In proportion to the number of drops of blood shed from his body, equal number of Rakshasas with strength, valour and ability came to life.
648. Those born out of his dropping blood, also exhibited equal dexterity in using fearful sastras while fighting with Mathru Ganas.
649. The Thunderbolt of Indrani again crushed the head of Rakthabeeja and blood flowed from his head. From that blood thousands of replicas were born.
650. Vaishnavi also struck the Rakthbeeja with Her discus.
651. Indri hit the Lord of Asuras with Her mace.
652. The whole world was filled up (populated) with the great Asuras of equal strength and calibre as that of Rakthabeeja, who came out of his blood when Vaishnavi cut him with Her discus.
653. Kaumari beat him with Her Sakthi weapon.
654. And Varahi hit Rakthabeeja with Her sword.
655. Maheswari stabbed Rakthabeeja with Her Trident.
656. Brahmani beat Rakthabeeja in his chest with Her Brahma Danda (Sublime stick).
657. Narasimhi tore his chest with Her claws. But he remained unsullied.
658. The great Asura Rakthabeeja who was born in the family of ‘Dithi’ became furious and struck every one of the Sakthis’, separately with his club.
659. Being beat with different weapons like Sakthi and spear, Rakthabeeja’s blood fell on the ground and flowed down. From that blood hundreds of Rakshasas were born.
660. The Asuras born out of Rakthabeeja’s blood filled the whole Universe.
661. The Devas were very much frightened at this.
662. The Devas who were watching the battle from above conversed. “A great Asura like him was not born in the past. None would be born in future. Even at present there is none equivalent to Rakthabeeja.”
663. Seeing the dejected condition of Devas, Chandika smiled and said to Kali like this. “Hey! Chamunde! You open out your mouth widely.”
Note : Addressing Kali as “Chemunde” denotes that She should contribute for the death of Rakthabeeja also, as done earlier in the case of Chanda and Munda.
664. "When I strike him with my powerful weapons, with your widened mouth You quickly swallow the blood drops oozing from Rakthabeeja, before they touch the ground.”
665. “You roam about in the battlefield devouring the Asuras born out of his blood. In this way this Rakshasa exhausts his blood and perishes at last”.
666. “As you devour these deadly Asuras new Rakthabeejas would not be born afresh. In this way the Asura Rakthabeeja gets destroyed”.
Rishi said:
667. Having said these words Kausiki Devi stabbed Rakthabeeja with Her trident.
668. Kali drank Rakthbeeja’s blood with Her mouth.
669. Then Rakthabeeja in that war, forcefully struck Chandika with his mace.
670. That massive blow from his mace did not cause slightest pain to Her.
671. Devi also struck that wicked Asura with Her mace.
672. He hit Devi Chamunda with his mace on Her face and waist.
673. Seeing his speed in war, the most ferocious and valiant Chandika struck him in his chest with the tip of Her Dart.
674. Being beaten like this, blood gushed out from the body of the Asura. Immediately Devi Chamunda swallowed the blood oozing out of his body.
675. The Asuras born from the blood fell into Her mouth, were immediately chewed and swallowed. She drank his blood too.
676. Devi Kausiki struck him with Her spear, thunderbolt, arrows, swords and double-edged weapons. Chamunda Devi drank blood flowed from his body instantly.
677. Oh! King! (Suratha!) The great Asura Rakthabeeja, who was stricken with many weapons, became bloodless and fell on the ground.
678. And many other Rakshasas were killed by those Mathru Ganas.
679. Oh! King! Then the Devas derived immeasurable joy.
680. The Mathru Ganas who sprang from those Devas, being intoxicated with blood/danced.
681. Gandharvas, Apsaras and Siddhas showered flowers and danced.
The sixth Chapter of main book Navasathi Mantramala “Slaying of Rakthabeejasura” of Sri Devi Mahatmyam taken from Sri Markendeya Maha Purana, during the period of Savarni Manu is complete.
CHAPTER 7
OM NAMASCHANDIKA YAI
Rishi said:
682. Hey! Bhagavan! You have narrated the wonderful event of slaying Rakthabeejasura by Devi and its greatness.
683. I would like to learn what the enraged Sumbha and Nisumbha did after the destruction of Rakthabeeja.
Rishi said:
684. In the battle when the Rakthabeeja was slain, and the remaining Rakshasas were being destroyed, Sumbha and Nisumbha grew very angry.
685. After seeing the destruction caused to his forces Nisumbha ferociously marched towards Devi with his prominent battalion of Rakshasas.
686. The Asuras of great prowess standing in front and back of Nisumbha, biting their lower lips angrily, went near Devi to kill Her.
687. The most valorous Sumbha, along with his forces fought with Mathru Ganas and fearfully advanced to kill Chandika Devi.
688. A severe fight took place between Devi and Sumbha, Nisumbhas who were showering the most fierce arrows like clouds on Devi.
689. Chandika, with a cluster of arrows, thrashed the arrows darted by the Asuras.
689-1. Chandika wounded each and every part of the great Asuras with Her innumerable arrows.
690. Nisumbha picked up a sharp sword and a dazzling shield and attacked the Lion, the Devi’s great vahana.
691. Seeing that Her vahana, the Lion, being beaten, Devi, with Her sharp arrows, broke Nisumbha’s great sword and the shield, which was decorated with eight kinds of precious gems and signs of crescent moon.
692. When the sword and the shield were broken into pieces, the Asura threw his Sakthi weapon on Devi.
693. Devi, with Her discus, had broken Nisumbha’s Sakthi weapon, which was advancing towards Her, into two pieces.
694. Highly vengeful, Nisumbhasura threw his spear on Devi.
695. Devi pounded that spear with Her fist and broke it into pieces.
696. Later Nisumbha hurled his mace on Devi.
697. That mace was powdered by Devi’s Trident.
698. Afterwards Devi with a string of arrows made Nisumbha unconscious and threw him on the ground when he was advancing with an axe in his hand.
699. When the most valorous brother Nisumbha fell on the ground, the enraged Sumbha advanced to kill Ambika.
700. Sumbha, who was in the chariot having the finest and the greatest weapons, with his matchless eight hands stretched completely covering the entire sky.
701. On seeing the Sumbha advancing towards Her, Devi blew Her conch.
702. And Devi produced an unbearable sound with the twang of Her bowstring.
703. Devi filled a” directions with the sound of Her bells. That sound reduced the power of a” Rakshasas.
704. The Lion filled the Heaven, the earth and a” the ten directions with loud roars, which forced even the elephants to give up their rut out of fear.
705. Then Kali sprang into the air, came down and struck the earth with Her both hands.
706. With that sound, a” other existing (previous) sounds lost their vibrations.
707. The loud laughter made by Sivadoothi was inauspicious to Her enemies.
708. The Asuras were frightened by those sounds. Sumbha became extremely furious.
708-1. Kausiki Devi said to Sumbha Oh! Evil minded (vicious) one stop! stop!”. The Devas assembled in the sky shouted wishing Her success.
709. Sumbha came forward and flung the most frightening weapon, the fiery Sakthi on Her. Like a mass of fire the approaching Sakthi weapon was made powerless by Devi’s own Sakthi.
710. Oh! King! Sumbha’s roar spread in the three worlds. The thunderclap of deadly clouds which shower meteors exceeded that Lion-like roar.
711. Devi split the deadly arrows darted by Sumbha and he, in turn, split the frightful arrows darted by Devi.
712. Thereafter Chandika became angry and stabbed him with spear.
713. Stabbed by spear Sumbha fell on the ground unconscious.
714. Then Nisumbha regaining consciousness grabbed his bow and attacked Kausiki Devi, Kali Devi and the Lion with his arrows.
715. Rakshasas’ king Nisumbha, the son of Dithi, assumed ten thousand hands and covered Chandika with ten thousand discs.
Note : The sons of Dithi are called Daithyas and the sons of Danu are called Danavas. Both are common enemies of Devathas.
716. Then Bhagawati Durga (Kausiki), the destroyer of difficulties caused by Rakshasas, became angry and with Her own arrows split the discuses and arrows hurled at her by Rakshasas.
717. Nisumbha, who was surrounded by his forces, swiftly grabbed his mace and rushed towards Chandika to slay Her.
718. As Nisumbha was rushing towards Her, Chandika swiftly cut the mace in his hand with Her sharp sword.
719. Nisumbha picked up a spear.
720. Chandika quickly hurled Her spear and tore the heart of Nisumbha, the afflictor of Devas who was advancing with a spear in his hand.
721. From the Nisumbha’s heart, which was torn with spear, another strong and valiant Rakshasa appeared exclaiming Her to “stop”.
722. Then Devi with a smile severed the head of the emerging person with Her sword making a loud noise.
723. The Rakshasa fell on the ground.
724. Then the Lion with its sharp teeth tore the necks of Asuras, killed them and ate them.
725. Kali also did the same.
726. Shivadoothi also devoured some Rakshasas.
727. Some Asuras perished being pierced by the Sakthi weapon in the hands of Kaumari.
728. When Brahmani sprinkled the water purified by manthra, some Rakshasas ran away.
729. Some others died being stabbed by the Trident of Maheswari.
730. Some Asuras were pounded by the snout of Varahi and fell on the ground.
731. Vaishnavi with Her discus cut some of them into pieces.
732. By the thunderbolt hurled by Indrani some more Rakshasas were torn into pieces.
733. Some of them were torn into pieces by Narasimhi with Her sharp nails.
734. Some Asuras died out of fear.
735. Some Asuras fled from that great battle.
736. Some more were devoured by the Lion, Kali and Shivadoothi.
Rishi said :
737. Seeing his dear brother being slain, and his forces destroyed, irritated Sumbha said like this.
738. “Oh! Durga! You are very proud of your strength, but you are depending on others’ strength and fighting. So you do not take pride in your strength”.
Devi said :
739. “Oh! Evil minded Sumbha! There is only one Sakthi in the whole universe. That is me. There is no second Shakthi other than me. Look how this Kali and other (Goddesses) shakthis are culminating into me”.
Note : Sri Adi Shankaracharya in his ‘Soundaryalahari’ praised Devi as:
"All the actions done by the Five elements in any form, is your own. You have grown into greater magnitude covering the entire universe. There is no power that stands different from you. All representations of power are your own qualities. After completing their duties they may merge into the original form that is You. That is why Devi is called"
Rishi said:
740. Then Brahmani and other Goddesses merged into the body of Devi. Ambika alone remained then.
Devi said:
741. “With my powers I appeared here in different forms. Now, I have withdrawn all those forms. I stand all alone in the war. You do not run away/ flee from here”,
Rishi said:
742. A dreadful battle had begun between Sumbha and Devi, which all Devas and Asuras were watching.
743. A fierce battle, which frightened all worlds, took place between them, with the showering of arrows, use of sharp weapons and dreadful missiles.
747. Ambika Devi had discharged hundreds of divine missiles and the Lord of the Daithyas, Sumbha, nullified those with his weapons.
745. Sumbha also discharged divine missiles on Devi. But Parameswari very easily, just by uttering ‘Hum’ sound nullified them.
746. Oh! King! When Devi and Sumbha were fiercely fighting, thousand divine years lapsed.
747. Then the Devas and Rishis conversed like this. “A war like this never happened before (in the past) or will take place in the future”.
748. Then Sumbha covered Devi with hundreds of arrows.
749. Devi also wrathfully, broke the bow of Sumbha with Her arrows.
750. And when his bow was broken, the king of the Danavas, took his weapon named Sakthi”.
751. When the Sakthi weapon was still in his hand, Devi cut it off with her discus.
752. Then the king of Rakshasas, Sumbha, picked up bright sword and shield and rushed towards Devi.
753. As he was rushing towards Her, Chandika shot sharp arrows and broke his sword and shield which was as pure as Sun’s rays.
754. And Devi fell his horses and chariot along with the charioteer.
755. Then with his horses slain, bow broken, and his charioteer killed, the Rakshasa took the terrible weapon named “Mudgara” trying to kilI Ambika.
756. Chandika broke the rushing Mudgaram of Sumbha, into pieces with Her sharp arrows.
757. Untired Sumbha tightened his fist and rushed swiftly towards Her.
758. Sumbha, the lord of the Rakshasas, gave blows on Devi’s chest with his fist.
759. Devi also hit him in the chest with Her palm.
760. Being hit by the palm of Devi, Sumbha fell on the ground.
761. But the brave Rakshasa, immediately got up.
762. Sumbha got up, seizing Devi, sprang up (flew) into the sky.
763. Chandika Devi fought with him in the sky without any support.
764. In the sky, Sumbha and Chandika fought with each other with their hands. This kind of personal combat astonished the siddhas and sages.
765. After fighting with him for a long time She lifted him holding his feet, whirled him round and threw him down to the earth.
766. Being thrown down, the wicked Sumbha sprang up, tightened his fist and ran fast towards Chandika with the intention of killing Her.
767. Then Devi, with Her spear tearing the chest of the Lord of Daithya clan, who was advancing towards Her, felled him down.
768. Being pierced by the Devi’s pointed spear he fell dead on the ground, shaking the whole earth with its Oceans, Islands and mountains.
769. When the evil minded Sumbha was slain, the whole Universe regained its peace and happiness. Even the sky became clear.
770. When the Sumbha was slain, the blood showering and flaming clouds which portended the bad omens earlier, became calm, clear and tranquil. And the rivers started flowing in their regular course.
771. When the Sumbha was slain, all the minds of Devaganas were filled with joy and happiness.
772. Gandharvas sang sweetly.
773. Others played instruments.
774. Nymphs (beautiful women) danced.
775. And pleasant breeze blew.
776. The Sun became very bright.
777. The sacred fires again blazed which were once extinguished.
778. The sounds that agitated all directions, calmed down (peace prevailed/regained everywhere).
779. All the Devas assembled in the sky and showered flowers.
780. The rightful deeds were re-established. Again the Devas received their sacrificial shares.
The seventh chapter of the Navasathi Manthra Mala
“Slaying of Sumbha and Nisumbha” of Sri Devi Mahatmyam from the Sri Markendeya Maha purana during period of Savami Manu is complete.
Rishi said:
682. Hey! Bhagavan! You have narrated the wonderful event of slaying Rakthabeejasura by Devi and its greatness.
683. I would like to learn what the enraged Sumbha and Nisumbha did after the destruction of Rakthabeeja.
Rishi said:
684. In the battle when the Rakthabeeja was slain, and the remaining Rakshasas were being destroyed, Sumbha and Nisumbha grew very angry.
685. After seeing the destruction caused to his forces Nisumbha ferociously marched towards Devi with his prominent battalion of Rakshasas.
686. The Asuras of great prowess standing in front and back of Nisumbha, biting their lower lips angrily, went near Devi to kill Her.
687. The most valorous Sumbha, along with his forces fought with Mathru Ganas and fearfully advanced to kill Chandika Devi.
688. A severe fight took place between Devi and Sumbha, Nisumbhas who were showering the most fierce arrows like clouds on Devi.
689. Chandika, with a cluster of arrows, thrashed the arrows darted by the Asuras.
689-1. Chandika wounded each and every part of the great Asuras with Her innumerable arrows.
690. Nisumbha picked up a sharp sword and a dazzling shield and attacked the Lion, the Devi’s great vahana.
691. Seeing that Her vahana, the Lion, being beaten, Devi, with Her sharp arrows, broke Nisumbha’s great sword and the shield, which was decorated with eight kinds of precious gems and signs of crescent moon.
692. When the sword and the shield were broken into pieces, the Asura threw his Sakthi weapon on Devi.
693. Devi, with Her discus, had broken Nisumbha’s Sakthi weapon, which was advancing towards Her, into two pieces.
694. Highly vengeful, Nisumbhasura threw his spear on Devi.
695. Devi pounded that spear with Her fist and broke it into pieces.
696. Later Nisumbha hurled his mace on Devi.
697. That mace was powdered by Devi’s Trident.
698. Afterwards Devi with a string of arrows made Nisumbha unconscious and threw him on the ground when he was advancing with an axe in his hand.
699. When the most valorous brother Nisumbha fell on the ground, the enraged Sumbha advanced to kill Ambika.
700. Sumbha, who was in the chariot having the finest and the greatest weapons, with his matchless eight hands stretched completely covering the entire sky.
701. On seeing the Sumbha advancing towards Her, Devi blew Her conch.
702. And Devi produced an unbearable sound with the twang of Her bowstring.
703. Devi filled a” directions with the sound of Her bells. That sound reduced the power of a” Rakshasas.
704. The Lion filled the Heaven, the earth and a” the ten directions with loud roars, which forced even the elephants to give up their rut out of fear.
705. Then Kali sprang into the air, came down and struck the earth with Her both hands.
706. With that sound, a” other existing (previous) sounds lost their vibrations.
707. The loud laughter made by Sivadoothi was inauspicious to Her enemies.
708. The Asuras were frightened by those sounds. Sumbha became extremely furious.
708-1. Kausiki Devi said to Sumbha Oh! Evil minded (vicious) one stop! stop!”. The Devas assembled in the sky shouted wishing Her success.
709. Sumbha came forward and flung the most frightening weapon, the fiery Sakthi on Her. Like a mass of fire the approaching Sakthi weapon was made powerless by Devi’s own Sakthi.
710. Oh! King! Sumbha’s roar spread in the three worlds. The thunderclap of deadly clouds which shower meteors exceeded that Lion-like roar.
711. Devi split the deadly arrows darted by Sumbha and he, in turn, split the frightful arrows darted by Devi.
712. Thereafter Chandika became angry and stabbed him with spear.
713. Stabbed by spear Sumbha fell on the ground unconscious.
714. Then Nisumbha regaining consciousness grabbed his bow and attacked Kausiki Devi, Kali Devi and the Lion with his arrows.
715. Rakshasas’ king Nisumbha, the son of Dithi, assumed ten thousand hands and covered Chandika with ten thousand discs.
Note : The sons of Dithi are called Daithyas and the sons of Danu are called Danavas. Both are common enemies of Devathas.
716. Then Bhagawati Durga (Kausiki), the destroyer of difficulties caused by Rakshasas, became angry and with Her own arrows split the discuses and arrows hurled at her by Rakshasas.
717. Nisumbha, who was surrounded by his forces, swiftly grabbed his mace and rushed towards Chandika to slay Her.
718. As Nisumbha was rushing towards Her, Chandika swiftly cut the mace in his hand with Her sharp sword.
719. Nisumbha picked up a spear.
720. Chandika quickly hurled Her spear and tore the heart of Nisumbha, the afflictor of Devas who was advancing with a spear in his hand.
721. From the Nisumbha’s heart, which was torn with spear, another strong and valiant Rakshasa appeared exclaiming Her to “stop”.
722. Then Devi with a smile severed the head of the emerging person with Her sword making a loud noise.
723. The Rakshasa fell on the ground.
724. Then the Lion with its sharp teeth tore the necks of Asuras, killed them and ate them.
725. Kali also did the same.
726. Shivadoothi also devoured some Rakshasas.
727. Some Asuras perished being pierced by the Sakthi weapon in the hands of Kaumari.
728. When Brahmani sprinkled the water purified by manthra, some Rakshasas ran away.
729. Some others died being stabbed by the Trident of Maheswari.
730. Some Asuras were pounded by the snout of Varahi and fell on the ground.
731. Vaishnavi with Her discus cut some of them into pieces.
732. By the thunderbolt hurled by Indrani some more Rakshasas were torn into pieces.
733. Some of them were torn into pieces by Narasimhi with Her sharp nails.
734. Some Asuras died out of fear.
735. Some Asuras fled from that great battle.
736. Some more were devoured by the Lion, Kali and Shivadoothi.
Rishi said :
737. Seeing his dear brother being slain, and his forces destroyed, irritated Sumbha said like this.
738. “Oh! Durga! You are very proud of your strength, but you are depending on others’ strength and fighting. So you do not take pride in your strength”.
Devi said :
739. “Oh! Evil minded Sumbha! There is only one Sakthi in the whole universe. That is me. There is no second Shakthi other than me. Look how this Kali and other (Goddesses) shakthis are culminating into me”.
Note : Sri Adi Shankaracharya in his ‘Soundaryalahari’ praised Devi as:
"All the actions done by the Five elements in any form, is your own. You have grown into greater magnitude covering the entire universe. There is no power that stands different from you. All representations of power are your own qualities. After completing their duties they may merge into the original form that is You. That is why Devi is called"
Rishi said:
740. Then Brahmani and other Goddesses merged into the body of Devi. Ambika alone remained then.
Devi said:
741. “With my powers I appeared here in different forms. Now, I have withdrawn all those forms. I stand all alone in the war. You do not run away/ flee from here”,
Rishi said:
742. A dreadful battle had begun between Sumbha and Devi, which all Devas and Asuras were watching.
743. A fierce battle, which frightened all worlds, took place between them, with the showering of arrows, use of sharp weapons and dreadful missiles.
747. Ambika Devi had discharged hundreds of divine missiles and the Lord of the Daithyas, Sumbha, nullified those with his weapons.
745. Sumbha also discharged divine missiles on Devi. But Parameswari very easily, just by uttering ‘Hum’ sound nullified them.
746. Oh! King! When Devi and Sumbha were fiercely fighting, thousand divine years lapsed.
747. Then the Devas and Rishis conversed like this. “A war like this never happened before (in the past) or will take place in the future”.
748. Then Sumbha covered Devi with hundreds of arrows.
749. Devi also wrathfully, broke the bow of Sumbha with Her arrows.
750. And when his bow was broken, the king of the Danavas, took his weapon named Sakthi”.
751. When the Sakthi weapon was still in his hand, Devi cut it off with her discus.
752. Then the king of Rakshasas, Sumbha, picked up bright sword and shield and rushed towards Devi.
753. As he was rushing towards Her, Chandika shot sharp arrows and broke his sword and shield which was as pure as Sun’s rays.
754. And Devi fell his horses and chariot along with the charioteer.
755. Then with his horses slain, bow broken, and his charioteer killed, the Rakshasa took the terrible weapon named “Mudgara” trying to kilI Ambika.
756. Chandika broke the rushing Mudgaram of Sumbha, into pieces with Her sharp arrows.
757. Untired Sumbha tightened his fist and rushed swiftly towards Her.
758. Sumbha, the lord of the Rakshasas, gave blows on Devi’s chest with his fist.
759. Devi also hit him in the chest with Her palm.
760. Being hit by the palm of Devi, Sumbha fell on the ground.
761. But the brave Rakshasa, immediately got up.
762. Sumbha got up, seizing Devi, sprang up (flew) into the sky.
763. Chandika Devi fought with him in the sky without any support.
764. In the sky, Sumbha and Chandika fought with each other with their hands. This kind of personal combat astonished the siddhas and sages.
765. After fighting with him for a long time She lifted him holding his feet, whirled him round and threw him down to the earth.
766. Being thrown down, the wicked Sumbha sprang up, tightened his fist and ran fast towards Chandika with the intention of killing Her.
767. Then Devi, with Her spear tearing the chest of the Lord of Daithya clan, who was advancing towards Her, felled him down.
768. Being pierced by the Devi’s pointed spear he fell dead on the ground, shaking the whole earth with its Oceans, Islands and mountains.
769. When the evil minded Sumbha was slain, the whole Universe regained its peace and happiness. Even the sky became clear.
770. When the Sumbha was slain, the blood showering and flaming clouds which portended the bad omens earlier, became calm, clear and tranquil. And the rivers started flowing in their regular course.
771. When the Sumbha was slain, all the minds of Devaganas were filled with joy and happiness.
772. Gandharvas sang sweetly.
773. Others played instruments.
774. Nymphs (beautiful women) danced.
775. And pleasant breeze blew.
776. The Sun became very bright.
777. The sacred fires again blazed which were once extinguished.
778. The sounds that agitated all directions, calmed down (peace prevailed/regained everywhere).
779. All the Devas assembled in the sky and showered flowers.
780. The rightful deeds were re-established. Again the Devas received their sacrificial shares.
The seventh chapter of the Navasathi Manthra Mala
“Slaying of Sumbha and Nisumbha” of Sri Devi Mahatmyam from the Sri Markendeya Maha purana during period of Savami Manu is complete.
CHAPTER 8
OM NAMASCHANDIKA YAI
Sri Aadyadi Mahadevi Kathyayani Sooktham.
(Sri Narayani Stuthi)
Rishi said :
781. When Sumbha the lord of Danavas was slain by Devi, Indra, Agni, and other Devathas, with full blooming and radiant faces which spread light in all directions, praised Kathyayani for the fulfilment of their wishes.
782. Oh! Devi! The remover of the sufferings of your suppliants, be gracious.
783. Oh! Mother of whole Universe! Be gracious.
784. Hey! Visweswari! Protect the Universe.
785. Oh! Devi! You are the Queen of the world full of animate and inanimate life.
786. Oh! Devi! With unsurpassable courage, You are in the form of the earth. You are the core (substratum) of the world filled with movable, immovable objects. This world is developed by you and you exist in the form of water.
Note : Earth is Devi’s form only, therefore, advised to seek forgiveness of Earth to step on the floor immediately after getting up from the bed. Before tilling, we should pray Mother Earth to forgive us. One’s native land is called ‘Mother land’ identifying its greatness with Devi. Even water available on earth is also Devi’s form only.
787. You are the inexhaustible valiant Vaishnavi Sakthi.
788. You are the cause of creation, progress and destruction of this! All kinds of Knowledge your (forms) aspects.
789. You are the greatest primordial Nature. This whole Universe is thrown into a delusion by you. (Maya)
790. If you become gracious, you bless with salvation, the final emancipation in this world itself.
791. Oh! Devi! All kinds of Knowledge are your (forms) aspects.
Note : Knowledge is identified in eighteen branches-
1.Four Vedas - Rigveda, Yajurveda, Samaveda, Atharvanaveda.
2.Six Vedangas -
1. Kalpam - sacred work which prescribes rituals.
2. Chandas - Metrical science.
3. Jyothishyam - Astrology.
4. Vyakaranam - Grammer.
5. Siksha - Science that teaches pronunciation
6. Nirukthi - Explains obscure terms from vedas
3. Others are -
Meemamsa, Nyaya, Dharma, Purana, Ayurveda, Dhanurveda, Gandharva veda, Sastrastravedas. All are eighteen in number.
792. All the feminine beings in the world are your forms or possess your qualities.
Note : In Indian culture a woman enjoys a special elevated status. As Devi’s form She is respected and worshipped.
Parasara smrithi says
"If women get angry Devathas become angry If women are happy Devathas too feel happy.
Happy women help family to prosper.If women are disrespected / insulted that family perishes.
Manusmrithi says-
"Where women are respected and worshipped, there Devathas are pleased"
The men who worship Devi should never abuse/ curse the women, instead they should be regarded as Devi, for they are Devi’s forms only.
793. This whole Universe is filled by you alone, Oh!
Mother Goddess!
(Note: Sruthis extol the meaning of the above sloka).
794. How to attain the greatest voice which praises your truthful nature?
795. Oh! Devi! When You have been praised as the embodiment of all beings, the bestower of enjoyment and liberation, is there any other word of praise to describe you?
796. Salutations to you! Oh! Devi Narayani! who lives in the hearts of all people in the form intelligence and bestows both heaven and liberation.
Note : Decisive nature of mind is called intelligence. If the conscience is inactive it cannot independently attain Jnana Devi as unseen light in the body, executes the functions of intelligence. Hence Devi is in the form of intelligence. The knowledge of Vedic rituals rewards one with Heaven. The knowledge of Brahman (self-realisation) rewards with liberation of soul. Both are bestowed by Devi in accordance with the actions performed In the previous birth.
797. Salutations to you Narayani! You are the cause of growth and destruction in the whole Universe. You are in the form of different Time divisions, like Kala, Kashta , Kshana,, Nimisha , Aho , Rathri , Paksha , Masa, Rithu and Samvathsara. You are capable of absorbing the whole Universe into you.
798. Hey! Bhavani! You give auspiciousness to all auspicious things. You are the root cause of all success. You are capable of protecting your devotees. Salutations to You Narayani, the Goddess with three eyes.
Note : This is a very popular Mantra. All auspicious things can be attained by the grace of Devi only. According to Bhavaprakasa, a Brahmin with divine knowledge, cow, fire, gold, butter, Sun, women, and king are auspicious things. According to
Jyotishsastra curd, ghee, milk, turmeric, mirror, flowers, Tulasi and Bilva (sacred leaves meant for worship) and Suvasini are auspicious. Suvasini is a married woman with a living husband. Devi is the source for all these auspicious things and hence She is the most auspicious one. Hence Devi is identified in all the above things and therefore, they should not be disrespected.
799. Salutations to you Narayani! You are the eternal and the source of creation, sustenance and destruction. You are the refuge and the embodiment of the three gunas, calmness, passion, and ignorance.
800. Salutations to you! Devi Narayani! You are intent on protecting those poor and sick who take refuge in you. You remove the troubles in all worlds.
801. Salutations to you! Oh! Devi! Narayani! You assume the form of Brahmani and ride in the chariot drawn by swans and sprinkle water from your Kamandalam. (The Vessel to carry sacred water.)
802. Salutations to you! Narayana ! You wear the Trident, Crescent Moon and Serpents necklace (made of serpents’ and studded with precious gems and presented by the Adisesha) in the form of Maheswari. A strong Bull is your vahanam (Vehicle).
803. Salutations to you! The sacred Narayani! You assume the form of Kaumari and attended by Peacock and a Cock, you carry the weapon named “Sakthi”(power}.
804. Salutations to you! Narayani! who assumes the form of Vaishnavi wears the great weapons like conch, mace, discus, and bow named Saranga. You are gracious!
805. Salutations to you auspicious Narayani ! You, who have assumed the form of Varahi wearing the terrible discus named Sudarshana, lifted the earth with your tusks.
806. Salutations to you Narayani! who is capable of saving the three worlds. You have decided to destroy the Danavas in the fierce form of Nrusimha (Man-lion).
807. Salutations to you Narayani! who is in the from Indri Sakthi killed Vrithrasura wearing a crown, Thunder bolt and dazzling with thousand eyes.
808. Salutations to you Narayani! who is in the form Shivadoothi destroyed all Daithyas. You possess great strength, a frightening look and produce terrible noise.
809. Salutations to you Narayani! who had slain the Mundasura in the form of Chamunda. Your head is adorned with different ornaments and your face is dreadful with tusks.
810. Salutations to you Mahasakthi Narayani! You are the Maha Kali who is ready to destroy the three worlds in the form of deluge or darkness.
811. Salutations to you Narayani! In the form of Mahalakshmi you are the auspicious and peaceful. You are the source for all the attainments. You are the illusion; You are the courageous and you have never experienced defeat.
812. Salutations to you Narayani! You are in the form of prosperity, modesty, supreme Knowledge, sincerity, nourishment and Svadha. You are the Eternal, Great Darkness and Great Illusion.
813. Salutations to you Narayani! Be gracious! You are the greatest intelligence in the form Saraswathi. You are in the form of wealth (Lakshmi). You are the strength of Lord Rudra (Shiva). Your grace is due to Penance. Richness is your form only. You are efficient in executing all your activities.
814. Salutations to you Narayani! You have hands, feet, eyes, heads, mouths, ears, and noses everywhere.
Note : Devi is VIRAT SWARUPINI. All beings form part of Her. This Mantra is a translation of the following Veda Mantra.
815. You are present in all the qualities of senses in the form of reflections. You are aware of the sensations, sound, touch, smell, sight and taste. But you remain unaffected by these sensations. Salutations - Oh Narayani!
Note: Sruthi and Smrithi have identified the presiding deities for the
various sensory organs of the living creatures. They are : Body - Earth, Ego - Rudra, Ear - Direction, Eyes - Sun, Tongue Varuna, Smell - Aswini Devathas, Speech - Agni, Hands - Indra, Feet - Upendra, Mind - Moon, Intelligence - Brihaspathi (Jupiter), Hips - Prajapathi, Anus/ Rectum - Mitra. All these Gods are Devi’s different forms only. Sruthi declares that there is no particular shape for the body or any sensory organ for the Supreme Spirit. In other words, She has no restrictions or limitations. such supreme spirit is Devi.
816. Salutations to you Devi Narayani! You are the destructive power of “Sarva”, who is the lord of Gods and endowed with endless grace.
Note : Rudra is the destroyer of the Universe at the time of the great deluge. He is also called as SARVA. The energy within Him which causes destruction is Devi Herself. De vi is the controller of the Trinity.
817. Salutations to you Devi Narayani! You are responsible for the birth and death of all living creatures. You are the witness and follower of all living creatures, in their awakening state and other states of life.
818. Salutations to you Devi Narayani! You bestow all living creatures with Heavenly abode. And you offer final deliverance. You relieve the devotees from all their sorrows and sufferings.
819. Salutations to you Devi Narayani! All parts of your body are all images of the Divine Energy. You are the destroyer of ignorance. You are the ruler of all-pervading intelligence.
Note: Ignorance is eternal and complete. It is a continuous one. Knowledge is one and any of its manifestations are different. Self, intelligence, giving Atma (self), the righteous direction etc., are its manifestations. Without the grace of Devi ignorance cannot be removed.
820. Salutations to you Devi Narayani! You are the destroyer of all diseases and difficulties. You fulfil all desires.
821. Salutations to you Devi Narayani! The whole animate and inanimate life of the Universe is your form only. You are the commander and controller of all lives. All powers are present in you. It is impossible to decipher your Nature. Oh! Devi! please protect us from all fears.
822. Salutations to you Devi Kathyayani! Let Your beautiful face radiant with three eyes protect us from all evil spirits, fire, flood and other catastrophes.
823. Salutations to you Bhadra Kali! Let your powerful Trident, which is aglow and fiery, that erased completely the Asuras, protect us from any fear.
Note: Bhadra kali is the bestower of auspicious things. Tantrics description of Devi created a sea of fear among people which should be discarded. People should bear in mind our age - old culture never disfigured De vi and Tantric cult is dangerous to all.
824. Your bell is ringing through the Universe and causing diminishing of the valour of the
Rakshasas. Let that bell protect us from the evil-minded people as a Mother protects Her children.
825. Let the sword smeared be with the blood and the brain of the Rakshasas and shining in your hand, protect us and grant us all that is good.
826. Oh! Chandika! We offer our Namaskaram (Salutations).
827. Oh! Devi! If You are pleased you will erase all diseases totally, if you are angry you thwart all the desires aspired for.
Note : This is a very important Mantra. The words “Aseshaan Rogaan” used in the Mantra refer not only to the physical ailments such as fever etc., but also to the mental illnesses (weaknesses) like« lust, hatred, greed etc., which are impediments for the attainment of liberation of soul i.e. Moksha. Hence Devi’s grace only can cure those diseases.
828. There is no danger for those who take refuge in you. And your devotees are able to extend shelter and solace to the needy.
829. Oh! Devi Ambika! Today you have divided your form into different forms like Kali, Lakshmi and Brahmi and fought with the Asuras who were against righteous path. Can any other woman fight like you?
830. Though the texts which substantiate the spiritual knowledge, Vedic sayings and Upanishads, discriminate and explain the rationale between the Supreme Spirit and the Individual Self, You are making us dwell in the whirlpool of dense darkness of ignorance caused by attachment (Illusion). Who else can be that “Great illusion” other than You?
Note : Who else is the Supreme Power which the “Vedantha Darsanam” and “Upanishads” establish other than Devi? The same has been expressed in “Sri Lalitha Sahasranama” as under-Devi in the form of Mahamaya is forcing all people to rotate in the whirlpool of Samsara. The cycle of birth and rebirth.
831. Where the Rakshasas exist, where the deadly poisonous snakes live, where all the enemies dwell, where the gangs of robbers hide, where the forest fire breaks out, in the mid-sea and in all places of turbulence, you are present protecting the Universe.
832. You are the dictator of the Universe and you alone protect it.
833. As you are covering this Universe, you are its Soul.
Note : The whole Universe is within Devi only. There is no discrimination or difference between Her and the Universe. Rajju, a cord appears like a serpent. Just as the serpent has no other power except that of the cord, so also Devi the supreme power is the primordial force of the Universe. Hence, She is the soul for the Universe. V/SWATMIKA means one who bears the universe within Her.
834. The Lords of the Universe Indra, Brahma and others are bowing before you.
835. Those who bow in devotion and respect to you (Brahma etc.,), become the basis of the Universe.
836. Oh! Devi! Be pleased and protect us from the fear of the enemies forever, just as you have protected us now, by destroying the Asuras. Please destroy the sins of all beings and the calamities created as a result of sins committed by them.
837. Oh! Devi! The remover of sorrows of all beings, be gracious to those who bow before you.Oh! Devi! You are the one who is adored by all the beings in the three worlds, grace them with boons.
Devi said :
838. Oh! Devas! I will bestow a boon! You ask whatever boon you desire. For the welfare of the world I shall grant it.
Devas said :
839. Hey the Omnipotent! As you have done now, be destroying our enemies always, to remove the worries of all and establish peace.
Devi said :
840. During the period of Vaivaswatha Manu, in the ensuing twenty eighth Mahayuga, two other great Rakshasas by name Sumbha, Nisumbha, who are different from these Sumbha and Nisumbha, will be born again.
841. I will be born in the womb of Yashoda, in the home of the cowherd Nanda, and later dwelling in the Vindhya mountains I would destroy them both.
842. Not only this, incarnating in a very dreadful form on the earth, I would destroy the Danavas born in the family of Viprachithi.
843. When I shall consume, devour the terrific and the great Asuras of Viprachithi family, my teeth would become red in colour like the pomegranate flowers.
844. After that, the Devas in the Heaven and the human beings on the earth, while praising shall call me Rakthadanthika forever.
845. Not only that there will be drought due to lack of rains for one hundred years. Being propitiated by great Saints I shall manifest myself on the Earth as Ayonija, (Without being born from a womb).
846. Then I shall behold the Saints with hundred eyes, so the mankind will praise me as the “Hundred eyed”.
Note : When the saints would be starving (without food) Devi looks at them compassionately with Her hundred eyes which shower nectar and they will get satisfied. Devi destroys the evil-minded in Her incarnations Viz. “VINDHYACHALA VAASINI” and “RAKTHA DANTIKA” As SATHAKSHI She protects the righteous with Her hundred eyes. As SAKAMBARI (dressed in vegetables) as Durga and as Bhima Devi, She protects the righteous and ends evil.
847. Oh! Devas then I shall feed the people and the whole world with the greens produced from my own body, till it rains. Then I shall be named as “Sakambari” in the world.
848. In that manifestation I would destroy a strong Danava named Durgama. Hence, I shall become famous in the name of “Durga”.
849. Again, I would assume a frightening form and devour the Rakshasas to protect the Saints in the Himalayan mountains.
850. Then all sages bow their bodies with reverence and sing in praise of me. Thereby I shall get the celestial name “Bhima Devi”.
851. A Rakshasa named Aruna would cause great annoyance in the three worlds. At that time, I would be born as a “Bee” and along with the innumerable number of Bees slay the great Rakshasa for the welfare of the three worlds. Thereupon the mankind would hail me as “BRAMARI”.
852. Thus, whenever the Rakshasas cause the trouble, at that time I shall incarnate and destroy the enemies.
The Eighth Chapter of Navasathi Mantramala of Sri Devi Mahatmyam named “Narayani Stuthi” from Sri Markandeya Maha Purana during the period of Savarni the Manu is complete.
OM NAMASCHANDIKA YAI
Sri Aadyadi Mahadevi Kathyayani Sooktham.
(Sri Narayani Stuthi)
Rishi said :
781. When Sumbha the lord of Danavas was slain by Devi, Indra, Agni, and other Devathas, with full blooming and radiant faces which spread light in all directions, praised Kathyayani for the fulfilment of their wishes.
782. Oh! Devi! The remover of the sufferings of your suppliants, be gracious.
783. Oh! Mother of whole Universe! Be gracious.
784. Hey! Visweswari! Protect the Universe.
785. Oh! Devi! You are the Queen of the world full of animate and inanimate life.
786. Oh! Devi! With unsurpassable courage, You are in the form of the earth. You are the core (substratum) of the world filled with movable, immovable objects. This world is developed by you and you exist in the form of water.
Note : Earth is Devi’s form only, therefore, advised to seek forgiveness of Earth to step on the floor immediately after getting up from the bed. Before tilling, we should pray Mother Earth to forgive us. One’s native land is called ‘Mother land’ identifying its greatness with Devi. Even water available on earth is also Devi’s form only.
787. You are the inexhaustible valiant Vaishnavi Sakthi.
788. You are the cause of creation, progress and destruction of this! All kinds of Knowledge your (forms) aspects.
789. You are the greatest primordial Nature. This whole Universe is thrown into a delusion by you. (Maya)
790. If you become gracious, you bless with salvation, the final emancipation in this world itself.
791. Oh! Devi! All kinds of Knowledge are your (forms) aspects.
Note : Knowledge is identified in eighteen branches-
1.Four Vedas - Rigveda, Yajurveda, Samaveda, Atharvanaveda.
2.Six Vedangas -
1. Kalpam - sacred work which prescribes rituals.
2. Chandas - Metrical science.
3. Jyothishyam - Astrology.
4. Vyakaranam - Grammer.
5. Siksha - Science that teaches pronunciation
6. Nirukthi - Explains obscure terms from vedas
3. Others are -
Meemamsa, Nyaya, Dharma, Purana, Ayurveda, Dhanurveda, Gandharva veda, Sastrastravedas. All are eighteen in number.
792. All the feminine beings in the world are your forms or possess your qualities.
Note : In Indian culture a woman enjoys a special elevated status. As Devi’s form She is respected and worshipped.
Parasara smrithi says
"If women get angry Devathas become angry If women are happy Devathas too feel happy.
Happy women help family to prosper.If women are disrespected / insulted that family perishes.
Manusmrithi says-
"Where women are respected and worshipped, there Devathas are pleased"
The men who worship Devi should never abuse/ curse the women, instead they should be regarded as Devi, for they are Devi’s forms only.
793. This whole Universe is filled by you alone, Oh!
Mother Goddess!
(Note: Sruthis extol the meaning of the above sloka).
794. How to attain the greatest voice which praises your truthful nature?
795. Oh! Devi! When You have been praised as the embodiment of all beings, the bestower of enjoyment and liberation, is there any other word of praise to describe you?
796. Salutations to you! Oh! Devi Narayani! who lives in the hearts of all people in the form intelligence and bestows both heaven and liberation.
Note : Decisive nature of mind is called intelligence. If the conscience is inactive it cannot independently attain Jnana Devi as unseen light in the body, executes the functions of intelligence. Hence Devi is in the form of intelligence. The knowledge of Vedic rituals rewards one with Heaven. The knowledge of Brahman (self-realisation) rewards with liberation of soul. Both are bestowed by Devi in accordance with the actions performed In the previous birth.
797. Salutations to you Narayani! You are the cause of growth and destruction in the whole Universe. You are in the form of different Time divisions, like Kala, Kashta , Kshana,, Nimisha , Aho , Rathri , Paksha , Masa, Rithu and Samvathsara. You are capable of absorbing the whole Universe into you.
798. Hey! Bhavani! You give auspiciousness to all auspicious things. You are the root cause of all success. You are capable of protecting your devotees. Salutations to You Narayani, the Goddess with three eyes.
Note : This is a very popular Mantra. All auspicious things can be attained by the grace of Devi only. According to Bhavaprakasa, a Brahmin with divine knowledge, cow, fire, gold, butter, Sun, women, and king are auspicious things. According to
Jyotishsastra curd, ghee, milk, turmeric, mirror, flowers, Tulasi and Bilva (sacred leaves meant for worship) and Suvasini are auspicious. Suvasini is a married woman with a living husband. Devi is the source for all these auspicious things and hence She is the most auspicious one. Hence Devi is identified in all the above things and therefore, they should not be disrespected.
799. Salutations to you Narayani! You are the eternal and the source of creation, sustenance and destruction. You are the refuge and the embodiment of the three gunas, calmness, passion, and ignorance.
800. Salutations to you! Devi Narayani! You are intent on protecting those poor and sick who take refuge in you. You remove the troubles in all worlds.
801. Salutations to you! Oh! Devi! Narayani! You assume the form of Brahmani and ride in the chariot drawn by swans and sprinkle water from your Kamandalam. (The Vessel to carry sacred water.)
802. Salutations to you! Narayana ! You wear the Trident, Crescent Moon and Serpents necklace (made of serpents’ and studded with precious gems and presented by the Adisesha) in the form of Maheswari. A strong Bull is your vahanam (Vehicle).
803. Salutations to you! The sacred Narayani! You assume the form of Kaumari and attended by Peacock and a Cock, you carry the weapon named “Sakthi”(power}.
804. Salutations to you! Narayani! who assumes the form of Vaishnavi wears the great weapons like conch, mace, discus, and bow named Saranga. You are gracious!
805. Salutations to you auspicious Narayani ! You, who have assumed the form of Varahi wearing the terrible discus named Sudarshana, lifted the earth with your tusks.
806. Salutations to you Narayani! who is capable of saving the three worlds. You have decided to destroy the Danavas in the fierce form of Nrusimha (Man-lion).
807. Salutations to you Narayani! who is in the from Indri Sakthi killed Vrithrasura wearing a crown, Thunder bolt and dazzling with thousand eyes.
808. Salutations to you Narayani! who is in the form Shivadoothi destroyed all Daithyas. You possess great strength, a frightening look and produce terrible noise.
809. Salutations to you Narayani! who had slain the Mundasura in the form of Chamunda. Your head is adorned with different ornaments and your face is dreadful with tusks.
810. Salutations to you Mahasakthi Narayani! You are the Maha Kali who is ready to destroy the three worlds in the form of deluge or darkness.
811. Salutations to you Narayani! In the form of Mahalakshmi you are the auspicious and peaceful. You are the source for all the attainments. You are the illusion; You are the courageous and you have never experienced defeat.
812. Salutations to you Narayani! You are in the form of prosperity, modesty, supreme Knowledge, sincerity, nourishment and Svadha. You are the Eternal, Great Darkness and Great Illusion.
813. Salutations to you Narayani! Be gracious! You are the greatest intelligence in the form Saraswathi. You are in the form of wealth (Lakshmi). You are the strength of Lord Rudra (Shiva). Your grace is due to Penance. Richness is your form only. You are efficient in executing all your activities.
814. Salutations to you Narayani! You have hands, feet, eyes, heads, mouths, ears, and noses everywhere.
Note : Devi is VIRAT SWARUPINI. All beings form part of Her. This Mantra is a translation of the following Veda Mantra.
815. You are present in all the qualities of senses in the form of reflections. You are aware of the sensations, sound, touch, smell, sight and taste. But you remain unaffected by these sensations. Salutations - Oh Narayani!
Note: Sruthi and Smrithi have identified the presiding deities for the
various sensory organs of the living creatures. They are : Body - Earth, Ego - Rudra, Ear - Direction, Eyes - Sun, Tongue Varuna, Smell - Aswini Devathas, Speech - Agni, Hands - Indra, Feet - Upendra, Mind - Moon, Intelligence - Brihaspathi (Jupiter), Hips - Prajapathi, Anus/ Rectum - Mitra. All these Gods are Devi’s different forms only. Sruthi declares that there is no particular shape for the body or any sensory organ for the Supreme Spirit. In other words, She has no restrictions or limitations. such supreme spirit is Devi.
816. Salutations to you Devi Narayani! You are the destructive power of “Sarva”, who is the lord of Gods and endowed with endless grace.
Note : Rudra is the destroyer of the Universe at the time of the great deluge. He is also called as SARVA. The energy within Him which causes destruction is Devi Herself. De vi is the controller of the Trinity.
817. Salutations to you Devi Narayani! You are responsible for the birth and death of all living creatures. You are the witness and follower of all living creatures, in their awakening state and other states of life.
818. Salutations to you Devi Narayani! You bestow all living creatures with Heavenly abode. And you offer final deliverance. You relieve the devotees from all their sorrows and sufferings.
819. Salutations to you Devi Narayani! All parts of your body are all images of the Divine Energy. You are the destroyer of ignorance. You are the ruler of all-pervading intelligence.
Note: Ignorance is eternal and complete. It is a continuous one. Knowledge is one and any of its manifestations are different. Self, intelligence, giving Atma (self), the righteous direction etc., are its manifestations. Without the grace of Devi ignorance cannot be removed.
820. Salutations to you Devi Narayani! You are the destroyer of all diseases and difficulties. You fulfil all desires.
821. Salutations to you Devi Narayani! The whole animate and inanimate life of the Universe is your form only. You are the commander and controller of all lives. All powers are present in you. It is impossible to decipher your Nature. Oh! Devi! please protect us from all fears.
822. Salutations to you Devi Kathyayani! Let Your beautiful face radiant with three eyes protect us from all evil spirits, fire, flood and other catastrophes.
823. Salutations to you Bhadra Kali! Let your powerful Trident, which is aglow and fiery, that erased completely the Asuras, protect us from any fear.
Note: Bhadra kali is the bestower of auspicious things. Tantrics description of Devi created a sea of fear among people which should be discarded. People should bear in mind our age - old culture never disfigured De vi and Tantric cult is dangerous to all.
824. Your bell is ringing through the Universe and causing diminishing of the valour of the
Rakshasas. Let that bell protect us from the evil-minded people as a Mother protects Her children.
825. Let the sword smeared be with the blood and the brain of the Rakshasas and shining in your hand, protect us and grant us all that is good.
826. Oh! Chandika! We offer our Namaskaram (Salutations).
827. Oh! Devi! If You are pleased you will erase all diseases totally, if you are angry you thwart all the desires aspired for.
Note : This is a very important Mantra. The words “Aseshaan Rogaan” used in the Mantra refer not only to the physical ailments such as fever etc., but also to the mental illnesses (weaknesses) like« lust, hatred, greed etc., which are impediments for the attainment of liberation of soul i.e. Moksha. Hence Devi’s grace only can cure those diseases.
828. There is no danger for those who take refuge in you. And your devotees are able to extend shelter and solace to the needy.
829. Oh! Devi Ambika! Today you have divided your form into different forms like Kali, Lakshmi and Brahmi and fought with the Asuras who were against righteous path. Can any other woman fight like you?
830. Though the texts which substantiate the spiritual knowledge, Vedic sayings and Upanishads, discriminate and explain the rationale between the Supreme Spirit and the Individual Self, You are making us dwell in the whirlpool of dense darkness of ignorance caused by attachment (Illusion). Who else can be that “Great illusion” other than You?
Note : Who else is the Supreme Power which the “Vedantha Darsanam” and “Upanishads” establish other than Devi? The same has been expressed in “Sri Lalitha Sahasranama” as under-Devi in the form of Mahamaya is forcing all people to rotate in the whirlpool of Samsara. The cycle of birth and rebirth.
831. Where the Rakshasas exist, where the deadly poisonous snakes live, where all the enemies dwell, where the gangs of robbers hide, where the forest fire breaks out, in the mid-sea and in all places of turbulence, you are present protecting the Universe.
832. You are the dictator of the Universe and you alone protect it.
833. As you are covering this Universe, you are its Soul.
Note : The whole Universe is within Devi only. There is no discrimination or difference between Her and the Universe. Rajju, a cord appears like a serpent. Just as the serpent has no other power except that of the cord, so also Devi the supreme power is the primordial force of the Universe. Hence, She is the soul for the Universe. V/SWATMIKA means one who bears the universe within Her.
834. The Lords of the Universe Indra, Brahma and others are bowing before you.
835. Those who bow in devotion and respect to you (Brahma etc.,), become the basis of the Universe.
836. Oh! Devi! Be pleased and protect us from the fear of the enemies forever, just as you have protected us now, by destroying the Asuras. Please destroy the sins of all beings and the calamities created as a result of sins committed by them.
837. Oh! Devi! The remover of sorrows of all beings, be gracious to those who bow before you.Oh! Devi! You are the one who is adored by all the beings in the three worlds, grace them with boons.
Devi said :
838. Oh! Devas! I will bestow a boon! You ask whatever boon you desire. For the welfare of the world I shall grant it.
Devas said :
839. Hey the Omnipotent! As you have done now, be destroying our enemies always, to remove the worries of all and establish peace.
Devi said :
840. During the period of Vaivaswatha Manu, in the ensuing twenty eighth Mahayuga, two other great Rakshasas by name Sumbha, Nisumbha, who are different from these Sumbha and Nisumbha, will be born again.
841. I will be born in the womb of Yashoda, in the home of the cowherd Nanda, and later dwelling in the Vindhya mountains I would destroy them both.
842. Not only this, incarnating in a very dreadful form on the earth, I would destroy the Danavas born in the family of Viprachithi.
843. When I shall consume, devour the terrific and the great Asuras of Viprachithi family, my teeth would become red in colour like the pomegranate flowers.
844. After that, the Devas in the Heaven and the human beings on the earth, while praising shall call me Rakthadanthika forever.
845. Not only that there will be drought due to lack of rains for one hundred years. Being propitiated by great Saints I shall manifest myself on the Earth as Ayonija, (Without being born from a womb).
846. Then I shall behold the Saints with hundred eyes, so the mankind will praise me as the “Hundred eyed”.
Note : When the saints would be starving (without food) Devi looks at them compassionately with Her hundred eyes which shower nectar and they will get satisfied. Devi destroys the evil-minded in Her incarnations Viz. “VINDHYACHALA VAASINI” and “RAKTHA DANTIKA” As SATHAKSHI She protects the righteous with Her hundred eyes. As SAKAMBARI (dressed in vegetables) as Durga and as Bhima Devi, She protects the righteous and ends evil.
847. Oh! Devas then I shall feed the people and the whole world with the greens produced from my own body, till it rains. Then I shall be named as “Sakambari” in the world.
848. In that manifestation I would destroy a strong Danava named Durgama. Hence, I shall become famous in the name of “Durga”.
849. Again, I would assume a frightening form and devour the Rakshasas to protect the Saints in the Himalayan mountains.
850. Then all sages bow their bodies with reverence and sing in praise of me. Thereby I shall get the celestial name “Bhima Devi”.
851. A Rakshasa named Aruna would cause great annoyance in the three worlds. At that time, I would be born as a “Bee” and along with the innumerable number of Bees slay the great Rakshasa for the welfare of the three worlds. Thereupon the mankind would hail me as “BRAMARI”.
852. Thus, whenever the Rakshasas cause the trouble, at that time I shall incarnate and destroy the enemies.
The Eighth Chapter of Navasathi Mantramala of Sri Devi Mahatmyam named “Narayani Stuthi” from Sri Markandeya Maha Purana during the period of Savarni the Manu is complete.
CHAPTER 9
OM NAMASCHANDIKA YAI
Devi said:
853. If one worships me daily with a steady mind chanting these hymns of praise, I will undoubtedly destroy all his difficulties.
854. Those who sing in praise of the slaying of “Madhukaitabha”, destruction of “Mahishasura”, and “annihilation of Sumbha, Nisumbhas”, they will not suffer from any sin.
855. On the eighth, ninth and fourteenth days (Ashtami, Navami and Chaturdasi) of the waving and waxing period of Moon, who listens with devotion and concentration of mind the greatness of mine, no sin approaches them.
856. They will not suffer from any sin. No disasters happen due to wrong doings. They suffer no penury. They will not get separated from their wives and children. They will not experience fear from the foes, thieves and the king, and they will never face danger from, weapon, fire and flood.
857. Hence these Hymns of my greatness which bestow well-being and prosperity must be chanted with more concentration of mind and always listened to with absolute devotion.
858. By listening to the Hymns depicting my glories, the sufferings caused by the epidemics and the three kinds of natural calamities will be eradicated.
Note : Natural calamities are of three kinds. They are Divine (Divya), spacial (Anthariksha) and Geographical/Earthly (Bhowma). The calamities caused due to planetary movements are called Divine. The destruction caused by meteors and thunderbolts are spacial. The devastation caused by epidemics and pests are named earthly/geographical. Malaria, small- pox and cholera are the three epidemics which destroy many lives. They are called “MAHAMARIES”.
859. In whichever home my glory is always sung, I will not leave that house. That house will be my permanent abode.
860. During the time of worship while offerings(sacrifice) are made, and when sacrificial rituals are performed through fire, my glorious deeds must be chanted completely and listened too.
861. Knowingly or unknowingly, when devotees perform pooja and Homam with offerings through fire sacrifice, chanting and listening to my glorious deeds I would accept that ritualistic worship with pleasure.
862. Every year, during “Sarathklalam” (Autumnal season) when the great annual worship of Navarathri is performed, if my glorious deeds are listened to with devotion, due to my grace, that person will be relieved of all sufferings.
863. A man becomes fearless when he listens to my glorious deeds, auspicious incarnations and the prowess exhibited in the battles.
864. Those who listen to the glorification of mine, their enemies perish, they become prosperous and their families progress well.
Note : The word ‘enemies’ refers also to the following Kama(Lust), Krodha (anger), Lobha (avarice), Moha (infatuation), Mada (pride, arrogance), Mathsarya (jealousy). All these are internal enemies that help rotate in Samsara. They will perish by listening to Sri Devi Mahatmyam.
865. At the time of propitiatory ceremonies (shanti karmas), on getting bad dreams and when under the bad influence of planets, my glorifications should be listened.
Note : Bad dreams are - climbing of kimsuka tree, marriage, wearing a red coloured cloth, taking oil bath, being naked and massaging of oil, eating meat, seeing Sun or Moon devoid of illumination, fall of a star, cut of ears and nose, riding a camel or donkey, falling into mud, etc.,
866. By listening to my glorification, all turbulences get vanished.
867. By listening to my glorification, the dreadful impacts caused by planets are removed.
868. By listening to my glorification, the bad dreams seen by human beings also produce beneficial results.
869. By chanting my glorification, the children who are possessed of by evil spirits are relieved of their influence and get normal.
870. By chanting my glorification, the estranged relationship among people (different sections of people in the society) is removed and good friendship is re-established.
Note : It is commonly seen at all places, that people, whether belonging to different races, countries, regions, states, languages, develop hatred, and jealousy towards others for no reason. This is a dangerous phenomenon that counters the growth of humanity. By chanting Sri Devi Mahatmyam such adverse features in the society can be removed and peace and harmony rule the Universe.
871. By chanting my glorification, the strength of the evil-minded men gets reduced.
872. By chanting my glorification, the Demons, Goblins and the Ogres are destroyed.
873. By reading or chanting this glorification of mine all devotees are drawn nearer to me.
874. The satisfaction I derive for worshipping me for a period of one year with leaves, flowers, perfumed incenses, finest sandal paste, lamps and other costly materials, by feeding Brahmins, by offering rare things in sacrificial fire, by doing Abhisheka (with water and Panchamritham) day and night, is equivalent to the satisfaction I get by just chanting and listening to this glorification of mine once.
875. By chanting the greatness of my manifestations, one is relieved of all his sins.
876. One is assured of health, if he praises my incarnations.
877. One is protected from the wild animals, if he sings the glory of my incarnations.
878. If my deeds of slaying different evil-minded Danavas in various battles, is listened to, men will have no fear from enemies.
879. The Hymns of praise, sang by you, (Devas) the Divine sages, seers and by Brahma, will bestow pious mind and Spiritual Knowledge.
Note : The Devi sthothram was sung by Brahma for kilting Madhu and Kaitabha. The Mahishanthakari Sooktham, The Aparajitha sooktham, The Kathayayani sooktham are sung by Devas. All these hymns are quintessence of Vedas/Upanishads and are considered treasures of spiritual knowledge.
880. The person, who is surrounded by forest fire, or way- laid by robbers in a desolate place, or caught by enemies in a lonely place, or chased by wild elephants, lion or tiger in the forest, or one is banished (sent in exile) from the kingdom by an angry king, or one who is sentenced to death, or imprisoned, or one who is shaken out of his boat by tempest in a vast sea, or attacked by missiles in a most fierce battle, or one who is severely suffering from incurable diseases, will be relieved of his troubles by meditating on me.
881. Due to my power the wild animals like the lion, the burglars, and the foes, flee from a distance, from a man who chants my story.
Rishi said :
882. Having uttered these words, the most powerful Chandika Devi, vanished while Devas were still looking at Her.
883. All Devas were relieved of fear as their foes were killed, received their sacrificial shares and regained their powers (positions) as before.
884. When the most valorous Sumbha, the enemy of the Devas, the afflicter of the whole world, and the most fierceful one and the most valiant Nisumbha were slain in the battle by Devi, the remaining host of Danavas reached the Nether world (Pathala).
885. Oh! King! Like this the adorable and eternal Devi, protects the world through Her incarnations, again and again.
886. By Her, this Universe is continuously kept under illusion and attachment.
887. She creates this Universe.
888. And when prayed for, She bestows the supreme Spiritual knowledge.
889. When She is pleased, She bestows prosperity.
890. Oh! King! This whole Universe is pervaded by Her, who reveals in the form of Maha Maya, Mahadevi and Mahakali.
891. At the time of destruction, She is the Mahakali.
892. Being eternal, She is the creator.
893. Being eternal, She Herself, sustains the beings at that time.
894. At the time of prosperity, She Herself dwells in the homes of people, in the form of Lakshmi (Goddess of riches).
895. At the time of misfortune, She assumes the form of misfortune (inauspicious one) and causes total destruction/ruin.
896. For those who praise Her and worship Her with flowers, perfumes and incense, She bestows children, prosperity, good nature and liberation.
Rishi said :
897. Oh! King! I have narrated to you the greatness of Her glorious story. Devi is endowed with such great power. She is manifested in the form of whole Universe. (The whole Universe is Her own manifestation).
898. Being the illusive power (Maha Maya) of Bhagavan Sri Maha Vishnu, She confers the Spiritual knowledge.
899. You, this merchant and other men of discrimination are under Her spell. In the past also men were under Her spell and in future also they will be deluded by Her.
900. Oh! Great King! Take refuge in Parameswari who is worshipped by Devas, Gandharvas and Sages who aspired for liberation. For those who worship. Her, She bestows earthly pleasures, Heaven and final liberation.
Sri Markandeya said :
901. On hearing these words, the king Suratha, having a feeling of despondency due to over attachment, and deprivation of his kingdom, prostrated before the Sage who was knowledgeable and pious, and left to perform penance.
902. Oh! Sage! That merchant also, who suffered due to too much attachment immediately left for undertaking penance.
903. Both the king and the vysya being seated on the sand banks of the river, in order to obtain the vision of Universal Mother, performed penance chanting the supreme Devi-suktham.
904. On the sand bank, they have made an image of Devi with mud and worshipped Her, offering flowers, incenses and fire rituals.
905. For three years strictly controlling their senses, both of them worshipped Her. The Universal Mother Chandika being pleased, appeared before them and spoke like this.
906. “Oh! King! Whatever you desire, you derive it from me. Oh! Vysya, the delight of your family, obtain what-ever you aspire from me. Being pleased I will grant whatever you want.”
Sri Markendeya said :
907. Then the King asked for the Manu ship in the next birth and to retrieve his kingdom from the enemies with his own might in this birth.
908. Then the merchant, who understood the sorrows caused by ego and attachment and being dispassionate at heart, asked for the knowledge which destroys the ego (I) and attachment (Mine).
Devi said:
909. Oh! King! In a few days you will conquer your enemies and regain your kingdom. (Your king ship will last long).
910. After your demise, you will be reborn by the grace of ‘The Sun’ and will be popularly known by the name “Savarni Manu” in this world.
911. Oh! Great Merchant! I will bless - you with the boon you have asked from me. You will have the knowledge which helps you for self-liberation.
Sri Markandeya said :
912. After bestowing the boons, they have asked for, being praised by them with devotion, Devi vanished into oblivion.
913. Having obtained boons, the greatest of the Kshatriyas, the king Suratha returned to the Sage Sumedhasa’s hermitage and narrated everything to him.
914. Afterwards with the permission of the Sage, he reached his kingdom with great enthusiasm, destroyed the enemies who were blind due to pride, and regained his kingdom.
915. Later he ruled over the whole earth, oceans as its boundaries, spending his life happily. He would take rebirth in the eighth Manu period through the ‘the Sun’ and would become the ‘Savarni-The Manu’.
916. The merchant also being detached from attachments became pious and true devotee of Devi, visited sacred places of worship, singing in praise of Devi’s qualities, bid the rest of his life in renouncement. (Lived like a sage).
917. Oh! Brahmin! I have narrated the greatest “Devi Mahatmyam” which comprises the glorious stories of Her different manifestations.
918. A person who sincerely reads this text regularly gets his desires fulfilled. He lives for hundred years. (Here the word hundred means not numerically one hundred but to be taken as many years).
919. The sins like Brahmahathya (killing a pious being) and other evil deeds performed from childhood will be undoubtedly erased by reading this ‘Mahathmyam’ once.
920. For a person who worships this book always with devotion in his house, money, pulses and riches will flow in abundance.
921. Such devotees will live without mental diseases and dreadful physical ailments. Neither thieves nor enemies trouble them. By the grace of Chandika they live with their children and grandchildren happily.
The Ninth Chapter of the “Sri Devi Navasathi MantraMala” the results of reciting “Sri Devi Mahatmyam” from “Sri Devi Mahathmyam of Sri Markendeya Maha Purana” during the period of Savarni the Manu, is complete.
Devi said:
853. If one worships me daily with a steady mind chanting these hymns of praise, I will undoubtedly destroy all his difficulties.
854. Those who sing in praise of the slaying of “Madhukaitabha”, destruction of “Mahishasura”, and “annihilation of Sumbha, Nisumbhas”, they will not suffer from any sin.
855. On the eighth, ninth and fourteenth days (Ashtami, Navami and Chaturdasi) of the waving and waxing period of Moon, who listens with devotion and concentration of mind the greatness of mine, no sin approaches them.
856. They will not suffer from any sin. No disasters happen due to wrong doings. They suffer no penury. They will not get separated from their wives and children. They will not experience fear from the foes, thieves and the king, and they will never face danger from, weapon, fire and flood.
857. Hence these Hymns of my greatness which bestow well-being and prosperity must be chanted with more concentration of mind and always listened to with absolute devotion.
858. By listening to the Hymns depicting my glories, the sufferings caused by the epidemics and the three kinds of natural calamities will be eradicated.
Note : Natural calamities are of three kinds. They are Divine (Divya), spacial (Anthariksha) and Geographical/Earthly (Bhowma). The calamities caused due to planetary movements are called Divine. The destruction caused by meteors and thunderbolts are spacial. The devastation caused by epidemics and pests are named earthly/geographical. Malaria, small- pox and cholera are the three epidemics which destroy many lives. They are called “MAHAMARIES”.
859. In whichever home my glory is always sung, I will not leave that house. That house will be my permanent abode.
860. During the time of worship while offerings(sacrifice) are made, and when sacrificial rituals are performed through fire, my glorious deeds must be chanted completely and listened too.
861. Knowingly or unknowingly, when devotees perform pooja and Homam with offerings through fire sacrifice, chanting and listening to my glorious deeds I would accept that ritualistic worship with pleasure.
862. Every year, during “Sarathklalam” (Autumnal season) when the great annual worship of Navarathri is performed, if my glorious deeds are listened to with devotion, due to my grace, that person will be relieved of all sufferings.
863. A man becomes fearless when he listens to my glorious deeds, auspicious incarnations and the prowess exhibited in the battles.
864. Those who listen to the glorification of mine, their enemies perish, they become prosperous and their families progress well.
Note : The word ‘enemies’ refers also to the following Kama(Lust), Krodha (anger), Lobha (avarice), Moha (infatuation), Mada (pride, arrogance), Mathsarya (jealousy). All these are internal enemies that help rotate in Samsara. They will perish by listening to Sri Devi Mahatmyam.
865. At the time of propitiatory ceremonies (shanti karmas), on getting bad dreams and when under the bad influence of planets, my glorifications should be listened.
Note : Bad dreams are - climbing of kimsuka tree, marriage, wearing a red coloured cloth, taking oil bath, being naked and massaging of oil, eating meat, seeing Sun or Moon devoid of illumination, fall of a star, cut of ears and nose, riding a camel or donkey, falling into mud, etc.,
866. By listening to my glorification, all turbulences get vanished.
867. By listening to my glorification, the dreadful impacts caused by planets are removed.
868. By listening to my glorification, the bad dreams seen by human beings also produce beneficial results.
869. By chanting my glorification, the children who are possessed of by evil spirits are relieved of their influence and get normal.
870. By chanting my glorification, the estranged relationship among people (different sections of people in the society) is removed and good friendship is re-established.
Note : It is commonly seen at all places, that people, whether belonging to different races, countries, regions, states, languages, develop hatred, and jealousy towards others for no reason. This is a dangerous phenomenon that counters the growth of humanity. By chanting Sri Devi Mahatmyam such adverse features in the society can be removed and peace and harmony rule the Universe.
871. By chanting my glorification, the strength of the evil-minded men gets reduced.
872. By chanting my glorification, the Demons, Goblins and the Ogres are destroyed.
873. By reading or chanting this glorification of mine all devotees are drawn nearer to me.
874. The satisfaction I derive for worshipping me for a period of one year with leaves, flowers, perfumed incenses, finest sandal paste, lamps and other costly materials, by feeding Brahmins, by offering rare things in sacrificial fire, by doing Abhisheka (with water and Panchamritham) day and night, is equivalent to the satisfaction I get by just chanting and listening to this glorification of mine once.
875. By chanting the greatness of my manifestations, one is relieved of all his sins.
876. One is assured of health, if he praises my incarnations.
877. One is protected from the wild animals, if he sings the glory of my incarnations.
878. If my deeds of slaying different evil-minded Danavas in various battles, is listened to, men will have no fear from enemies.
879. The Hymns of praise, sang by you, (Devas) the Divine sages, seers and by Brahma, will bestow pious mind and Spiritual Knowledge.
Note : The Devi sthothram was sung by Brahma for kilting Madhu and Kaitabha. The Mahishanthakari Sooktham, The Aparajitha sooktham, The Kathayayani sooktham are sung by Devas. All these hymns are quintessence of Vedas/Upanishads and are considered treasures of spiritual knowledge.
880. The person, who is surrounded by forest fire, or way- laid by robbers in a desolate place, or caught by enemies in a lonely place, or chased by wild elephants, lion or tiger in the forest, or one is banished (sent in exile) from the kingdom by an angry king, or one who is sentenced to death, or imprisoned, or one who is shaken out of his boat by tempest in a vast sea, or attacked by missiles in a most fierce battle, or one who is severely suffering from incurable diseases, will be relieved of his troubles by meditating on me.
881. Due to my power the wild animals like the lion, the burglars, and the foes, flee from a distance, from a man who chants my story.
Rishi said :
882. Having uttered these words, the most powerful Chandika Devi, vanished while Devas were still looking at Her.
883. All Devas were relieved of fear as their foes were killed, received their sacrificial shares and regained their powers (positions) as before.
884. When the most valorous Sumbha, the enemy of the Devas, the afflicter of the whole world, and the most fierceful one and the most valiant Nisumbha were slain in the battle by Devi, the remaining host of Danavas reached the Nether world (Pathala).
885. Oh! King! Like this the adorable and eternal Devi, protects the world through Her incarnations, again and again.
886. By Her, this Universe is continuously kept under illusion and attachment.
887. She creates this Universe.
888. And when prayed for, She bestows the supreme Spiritual knowledge.
889. When She is pleased, She bestows prosperity.
890. Oh! King! This whole Universe is pervaded by Her, who reveals in the form of Maha Maya, Mahadevi and Mahakali.
891. At the time of destruction, She is the Mahakali.
892. Being eternal, She is the creator.
893. Being eternal, She Herself, sustains the beings at that time.
894. At the time of prosperity, She Herself dwells in the homes of people, in the form of Lakshmi (Goddess of riches).
895. At the time of misfortune, She assumes the form of misfortune (inauspicious one) and causes total destruction/ruin.
896. For those who praise Her and worship Her with flowers, perfumes and incense, She bestows children, prosperity, good nature and liberation.
Rishi said :
897. Oh! King! I have narrated to you the greatness of Her glorious story. Devi is endowed with such great power. She is manifested in the form of whole Universe. (The whole Universe is Her own manifestation).
898. Being the illusive power (Maha Maya) of Bhagavan Sri Maha Vishnu, She confers the Spiritual knowledge.
899. You, this merchant and other men of discrimination are under Her spell. In the past also men were under Her spell and in future also they will be deluded by Her.
900. Oh! Great King! Take refuge in Parameswari who is worshipped by Devas, Gandharvas and Sages who aspired for liberation. For those who worship. Her, She bestows earthly pleasures, Heaven and final liberation.
Sri Markandeya said :
901. On hearing these words, the king Suratha, having a feeling of despondency due to over attachment, and deprivation of his kingdom, prostrated before the Sage who was knowledgeable and pious, and left to perform penance.
902. Oh! Sage! That merchant also, who suffered due to too much attachment immediately left for undertaking penance.
903. Both the king and the vysya being seated on the sand banks of the river, in order to obtain the vision of Universal Mother, performed penance chanting the supreme Devi-suktham.
904. On the sand bank, they have made an image of Devi with mud and worshipped Her, offering flowers, incenses and fire rituals.
905. For three years strictly controlling their senses, both of them worshipped Her. The Universal Mother Chandika being pleased, appeared before them and spoke like this.
906. “Oh! King! Whatever you desire, you derive it from me. Oh! Vysya, the delight of your family, obtain what-ever you aspire from me. Being pleased I will grant whatever you want.”
Sri Markendeya said :
907. Then the King asked for the Manu ship in the next birth and to retrieve his kingdom from the enemies with his own might in this birth.
908. Then the merchant, who understood the sorrows caused by ego and attachment and being dispassionate at heart, asked for the knowledge which destroys the ego (I) and attachment (Mine).
Devi said:
909. Oh! King! In a few days you will conquer your enemies and regain your kingdom. (Your king ship will last long).
910. After your demise, you will be reborn by the grace of ‘The Sun’ and will be popularly known by the name “Savarni Manu” in this world.
911. Oh! Great Merchant! I will bless - you with the boon you have asked from me. You will have the knowledge which helps you for self-liberation.
Sri Markandeya said :
912. After bestowing the boons, they have asked for, being praised by them with devotion, Devi vanished into oblivion.
913. Having obtained boons, the greatest of the Kshatriyas, the king Suratha returned to the Sage Sumedhasa’s hermitage and narrated everything to him.
914. Afterwards with the permission of the Sage, he reached his kingdom with great enthusiasm, destroyed the enemies who were blind due to pride, and regained his kingdom.
915. Later he ruled over the whole earth, oceans as its boundaries, spending his life happily. He would take rebirth in the eighth Manu period through the ‘the Sun’ and would become the ‘Savarni-The Manu’.
916. The merchant also being detached from attachments became pious and true devotee of Devi, visited sacred places of worship, singing in praise of Devi’s qualities, bid the rest of his life in renouncement. (Lived like a sage).
917. Oh! Brahmin! I have narrated the greatest “Devi Mahatmyam” which comprises the glorious stories of Her different manifestations.
918. A person who sincerely reads this text regularly gets his desires fulfilled. He lives for hundred years. (Here the word hundred means not numerically one hundred but to be taken as many years).
919. The sins like Brahmahathya (killing a pious being) and other evil deeds performed from childhood will be undoubtedly erased by reading this ‘Mahathmyam’ once.
920. For a person who worships this book always with devotion in his house, money, pulses and riches will flow in abundance.
921. Such devotees will live without mental diseases and dreadful physical ailments. Neither thieves nor enemies trouble them. By the grace of Chandika they live with their children and grandchildren happily.
The Ninth Chapter of the “Sri Devi Navasathi MantraMala” the results of reciting “Sri Devi Mahatmyam” from “Sri Devi Mahathmyam of Sri Markendeya Maha Purana” during the period of Savarni the Manu, is complete.
II OM THATSATH II SREEM I SREEM I SREEM I
OM SANTHI OM SANTHI OM SANTHI
DEDICATED TO SRI PARAMESWARA
