DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI 33

S rikrishna Karnamrutham is a poem written in

Sanskrit by Poet Bilwamangala Swami popularly
known as Leelashuka. Based on the original
concept of the poem by Leelashuka, the following
prose is written in English in conversational tone.

One day little Krishna approaches his Mother

Yashoda and asks for a silver vessel. His mom
enquires, “what do you need that for….??”

“to drink milk ma!” says little Krishna…”Without a light. At that time my dear one, when you feel

vessel, how do I drink milk? And without milk, how darkness all around and you hardly can see

is it that my little tummy would be satisfied”? anything around you…know at that moment my
dear one, that the ‘The Night’ has come…”.
“But then, where is the milk today little one? It’s
long finished!”replies Yashoda. “Oh..mom…look here now…look at me, your dear
darling child! My lotus-like eyes are totally closed
“Oh !then when would you be giving me milk ….now it’s all dark around me mom….I could
ma…? Please tell me…I would obediently wait for hardly see anything around me…‘Night’ has
you to give me milk ma…” come..Mamma…!! ‘Night’ has come….!! Give me
milk now…you can’t deny me now,…I waited for
These are the sweet words that tumble out of the
milk till ‘Night’ has come!!!”
rosy lips of baby Krishna….
Such a Krishna,
“Let the night come my adorable child! That’s
who is so adorably mischievous
when the cows would be milked! and then would
and is full of childlike innocence and love,
I give you a silver vessel full of milk”
Such a Krishna who playfully pulls the saree pallu
“But..ma…such a tiny child that I am…, and so (aanchal) of his mother
naïve….How would I know what is Night? How can and follows her in his adorable footsteps,
I recognize when night comes?” May such a Krishna protect me like-wise
and forever with such Love and Affection.
“Oh…that’s easy dear one….Night is that time
when everything around seems dark! No light
around and you can hardly see anything without

4 DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI

 Sri Krishna Karunamrutham
- 'Anantha' (Krishna Sundari Sattiraju) - 4
Alamelmanga in the Eyes of Annamayya
- Prof. M. Rajagopalachary - 7
Epitome of Elegance
- Dr. Usha Bhattaram - 11
Sri Padmavathi Devi - The Goddess of Tiruchanur
- Sri M. Raman - 13
Goddess Lakshmi in the Sree Suktam
- Sri Adviteeya N. Dixit - 16
Sri Mahalakshmi - Goddess of Prosperity
- Prof. P. Raja - 19
Dhanurmasam at Tirumala
- Sri R. Kannan - 21
Srimad Bhagavad Gita
- Dr. A. Savitri - 24
Mantric Pearls of Devotion : Nammalwar
- Smt. Premananda Kumar - 25
The Cow is the Mother of the Universe
- Smt. J.C. Gnanaprasuna - 31
The Essence of Sri Vedanta Desika's Goda Stuthi
- Dr. Kannan Srinivasan - 36
Sri Chinthalavenkataramana Temple
- Sri K. Sarath Chandra - 39
The Tirumala Temple
- Dr. N. Ramesan - 41
Learning is a Lifelong Duty
- Prof. S. Laxmanamurthy - 44
Tirumalai Ozhugu
- Dr. M. Varadarajan - 45
The Significance of Dasa Bhakti
- Dr. M. Krishna Kumar - 47
Universal Wisdom of Vemana
- Sri K. Damodar Rao - 49
Mangala - Mars
- Smt. D.K. Ahana Lakshmi - 50
Who is a Greater Devotee?
- Smt. N. Kalpana - 51
Tiruppavai
- Sri M.R.K. Sateesh Babu - 52

APPEAL TO READERS
Front Cover : Sri Padmavathi Ammavaru on Gajavahanam
Back Cover : Sri Andal

Chief Editor

DECEMBER
DECEMBER - 2021
- 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI
:: SAPTHAGIRI 5 5
 SALUTATIONS TO SRI PADMAVATHI DEVI

Goddess Padmavathi is glorified as the queen of the Universe. She represents the Lord’s
Sankalpa. Her divine name signifies her emergence from the lotus. She is also known as Alamelmanga
which means ‘the lady on top of the lotus’ referring to her emergence in the Panchami teertham
fulfilling the long penance of Lord Srinivasa. With the advent of the month of Karthika, the festivities of
Sri Padmavati Ammavari Brahmotsavams start with great pomp and splendour.

Goddess Padmavathi is the Consort of Lord Venkateswara. She wards off the sins of those

E who approach Her and enhances their good qualities making them fit to approach the Lord. The
Divine Mother feels concerned for the plight of Her children (devotees) and intercedes with the Lord

D on their behalf to ensure their well-being. She pacifies the Lord who is a strict ruler, as and when
necessary to pardon the devotees. Devotees appeal to the supreme Mother to exercise Her loving

I concern and solicitousness for the good of Her children and bring them closer to Lord Srinivasa.
Goddess Padmavati is a symbol of Mercy. She holds a lotus in her hand representing her soft and

T gentle qualities. She possesses all the uncountable auspicious qualities especially Vaatsalyam and
grants intelligence to all those who seek Her refuge.

O What is Vaatsalyam?

Vatsa means child or calf. The cow, after delivering a calf, gently licks the calf and cleans it. This

R affection of the cow is known as Vaatsalyam. As human beings, the devotees are prone to sinful acts,
and realizing this, they approach the goddess for pardon. Being compassion- incarnate, she does not

I count on their sinful acts, but showers Her unlimited mercy upon them. She is Karuna Kataksha
dharini – she radiates compassion from her looks askance. When Annamacharya felt disheartened to

A climb up Tirumala in the middle of his journey due to exhaustion, it was Padmavathi who rejuvenated
him with the Swamy prasada and enabled him to complete his journey successfully. He wrote a

L number of sankeertanas glorifying her benevolence and grace. Nammalwar in his Thiruvayimoli says
that “Goddess Lakshmi will not go away from Lord Venkateswara’s heart, staying always with him”
(agalakilleen iraiyum enru alarmel mangakai urai marba!). That is why, she is known as nityaanapaayini.
The magnificient annual Brahmotsavams of Goddess Padmavathi Devi in Tiruchanur will be
performed with pomp and gaiety. May Goddess Padmavathi Devi shower abundant mercy on us
forever!
OM SRI PADMAVATHYAI NAMAH

6 DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI

 A nnamayya pays
tributes to the glory and grandeur
Inspiration for Annamayya :
There is an interesting event
of Goddess Alamelmanga in a in the life of Annamayya in
number of beautiful sankirtanas. which Alamelmanga plays a
Alamelmanga is a befitting crucial role. As a child Annamayya
match for Lord Venkateswara as was sent by his sister-in-law to the
she is personification of forest one day on a mission to collect
elegance and abounding the grass. While cutting the grass with a sickle, his finger was
compassion. She is the epitome cut and the blood gushed forth. He cries with pain for help in vain.
of all the rasas in the world. She He realizes that all his passion for relatives is mere lunacy,
is nityanapayini, ever “neevatti verri naakela kavimpa?”. He thinks there is no use going
inseparable from the Lord. So is back home and arguing with his sister-in-law why she had
the Lord. He cannot live without assigned such a task. Suddenly, realization dawns on him that
her. That is why, when she there is none to save him except Lord Srihari. By intuition he
angrily abandoned Vaikuntha, turns his attention to the Lord of Seshachala who has been within
the Lord also followed suit and him as antaryami like father, mother, god, preceptor and savior.
settled down on Venkatadri. He Just then he comes across a group of bhajan singers singing the
fixes her on His chest securely glory of Lord Venkateswara. Involuntarily, he accompanies them
lest she should leave Him. to Tirumala. While climbing the holy hill, he feels nervous due to
Alamelmanga plays the role of a hunger and falls asleep. At that time, Alamelmanga appears to
mother for all jivas and comes him in his dream and offers the Lord’s prasadam and ordains
to their rescue by persuading the him to throw away the footwear to recover his strength to reach
somewhat indifferent Lord to the top of the hill without any difficulty. Thus she unveils the glory
forgive their sins and save them of the locale to him. By the grace of the Goddess, Annamayya
with His mercy. Thus, according spontaneously composes Venkateswara Satakam on her. In the
to Visistadvaita, she takes up light of this, his affinity to the Goddess can be understood. Rich
the role of a benevolent mediator, poetry overflows in Annamayya’s shringara kirtanams on Alamel
purushakara. Manga seeped with madhura bhakti in the manner of Jayadeva.
Beyond Human Comprehension : Is it possible for human
beings to praise the extraordinary beauty and charm of
Alamelmanga? No, says Annamayya. It is beyond human
comprehension. She shines with all the graces of the spring.
Annamayya pleads with her, “How can I praise you, O
Alamelmanga/Glistening with all the graces of the spring? (“emani
poguudame yika ni(n)nu…”).” She is treasure-trove for the Lord.
When she is there with Him, He does not need anything. He
seems to ask the Lord, “O Lord! What use is moonlight for You?
Don’t You find it in Alamelmanga's cool glances? Do You need
floral bed? Aren’t the goosebumps raised on her body a floral bed
for You? Why do You need any feast? Doesn’t her delicious
dalliance constitute a feast for You? Do You really need areca

DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI 7

nuts after the feast when her bashful smiles are
The annual Brahmotsavams at Tiruchanur is
there? Her constant association with You augurs
being performed to Sri Padmavathi Ammavaru
well for the worlds.”
in Kartheekamasam. The Brahmotsavams
The Zodiac Signs : Annamayya’s sankirtana, starts with 'Lakshakumkumarchana'.
“innirasula yuniki yinti celuvapu raci.…” reveals his Ammavaru will be decorated with various
knowledge of astrology. Annamayya considers vahana sevas in all nine days as part of annual
Alamelmanga as the personification of grace and Brahmotsavams. Let us have the blessings
elegance combining the graceful virtues of all the of the Ammavaru and be blessed.
zodiac signs, though her actual sign is Virgo. He
finds in her form the individual characteristics of all creation. All that happens in this world is only your
the signs. Alamelumanga’s graceful new
lila!”
appearance forms a feast for the eyes of the Lotus-
eyed Venkatesha (“alamelu manga nee abhinava On the Palanquin : Annamayya warns the maids
roopamu…” carrying the palanquin that they should walk
gracefully without wobbling lest the jasmines from
Graceful Gait : Annamayya describes the graceful the Mother’s locks fall down (“kulukaka nadavaro
gait of well-adorned Alamel Manga as she comes kommalaala …”). She sweats at the slightest
to worship Lord Venkateswara with all her retinue imbalance in the gait. He asks the maids to offer
(“vaccenu alamelumanga…”). Like a fine painter, her pearl-studded footwear as she gets ready to
Annamayya draws the picture of the pageant. “O get off the palanquin.
Mother! As you proceed in a palanquin, your
emerald-studded bracelets shine forth. Thousands Elegant Dance : Alamelmanga is well-versed in
of beautiful maids with golden lamps in their hands all fine arts. She dances elegantly before the Lord
wave hand-fans in the procession. Your talk is sweet of Venkatadri to win His heart (“alarulu kuriyaga nae
like honey. The parrots twitter by your side and play nade.…”). The song is often compared with
tune to the sweet songs of your maids. The tinkling Purandaradas’ “bhagyada lakshmi baramma!”
of their ankle-bells constitutes background music describing the dance postures of Goddess Lakshmi
to it. Rambha and other angels dance before you before Lord Vishnu. Alamelmanga dances as her
front ringlets of hair wafted in the air putting on all
with profound gait. You come thus with a lot of fanfare
her pretty airs. Behind the curtain, she is soft and
to join Lord Venkatesha and begin the stage-play of
gentle like a half-blown flower. An expert dancer,
she attracts her Lord with a series of swift
turnarounds. Thus, she wins the Lord’s heart.
Talambralu : In the wedding ceremony, talambralu
is an interesting part. The bride and bridegroom
pour the auspicious turmeric rice grains over each
other quite enthusiastically. It provides a lot of
amusement both to the couple and the spectators.
Annamayya describes this scene of kalyanotsava
very beautifully in a few sankirtanas like “pidikima
talambrala pendli kooturu…”. Alamelmanga
radiates with splendor as a bride holding talambralu
in her fist and smiling with her looks askance. She
is too shy to utter the name of the Lord. She has
long plaited hair and long pearl chains around her
neck. She changes a box-full of sarees on this
occasion. She melts away in the Lord’s passionate
embrace with excitement and shyness.

8 DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI

Goddess of Garudadri and Vedadri : Alamelmanga is the treasure of
Garudadri and Vedadri hills represented by Lord Venkatesvara and
Narasimha (“garuadri vedadri kalimi ipe…”). She fulfils all our wishes like a
wishing stone (cintamani). She is daughter of Milky Ocean, and lives in the
lotus. She is the beloved of Narasimha. Like Mother, she rules all the worlds
with affection. She lives in wealth and harvest. Annamayya hails her as the
beloved of Hari and mother of Cupid (“cakkani talliki changubhala tana…”).
Coodikudutta Naacciyaar : As we know Andal successfully married Lord
Ranganatha by performing Srivrata chanting Tiruppavai. Lord Ranganatha
is, however, Lord Venkateswara for Annamayya. Annamayya asks the maids
to sing a sobana (shobhanam) song on the occasion of their nuptial
ceremony (“cudaramma satulala sobana padaramma…”). Goda is also
known as Coodikudutta Naacciyaar as every day she used to wear fresh
garlands first before she offered them to Lord Ranganatha. As Goddess of
Wealth, mother of Cupid, sister of Moon, daughter of Milky Ocean and Mother
of Universe seated in the lotus, she naturally abounds in elegance, charm
and grace. Naturally, she has plentiful store of happiness.
Ashta Lakshmi : Goddess Lakshmi is Ashta Lakshmi with eight different
forms. Annamayya refers to the different episodes of the Lord’s incarnations
wherein she appears in her different forms (“tagunayya harineeku danamu
teccukonina…”). He invokes her thus: “ O Goddess Ashta Lakshmi! You’ve
eight manifestations. You enriched Lord Varaha as Soubhagya Lakshmi
when He rescued Goddess Earth from the clutches of Hiranyaksha. You
imparted victory to Lord Krishna as Jaya Lakshmi when He married Rukmini
vanquishing Sisupala. You were behind Lord Rama as Vira Lakshmi when
He killed Ravana and restored Sita to Ayodhya. You became Sangrama
Lakshmi when you bravely fought with Narakasura as Satyabhama and
helped Lord Krishna kill him. You became Vara Lakshmi when you emerged
as Chencu Lakshmi to pacify fretting and fuming Lord Narasimha after He
killed Hiranyakasipu. As Alamelmanga and consort of Lord Venkateswara in
Alamelmangapuram, you assumed the form of Adilakshmi. You are Kalyana
Lakshmi in the daily ritual of marriage for Lord Venkateswara at Tirumala.”
Playful Pranks : The playful pranks between Lord Venkateswara and his
beloved Alamelmanga are beautifully described attributing them to a lady
and her brother-in-law with folk touch in the sankirtana, “ele ele maradalaa
caalu caalu caalunu”. The taunting, playful romantic conversation between
the brother-in-law (B) and the lady (L) runs as follows:
B: “What is the matter? Hey, sister-in-law!”
L: “Stop your playful pranks, O brother-in-law!”
B: “What pretty airs you put on with your graceful movements?”
L: “Why pinch me time and again? End these false guiles and leave
me alone!”
B: “Why do you scare me the moment you see me, O querulous lady?”
L: “Why are you after me? Get lost! No possibility of consummation,
You pretentious guy!”

DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI 99

 B: “With your tickling glances, you’ve been tempting me, O dear
lady!”
L: “You’ve quickly connected me to Lord of Venkatadri and befittingly
won my heart, O dear!”
Consummation : “Emoko ciguru madharamuna edandea kasturi
nindenu…” is a romantic composition describing the consummation of
Alamelmanga and Lord Venkateswara in conversational mode between
two groups of maids. One group seems to question the mystery, while
the other seems to solve the puzzle, but in fact both taunt the lady.
G1: ‘How come she has signs of musk here and there?’
G2: ‘Don’t you know? It is just a letter written by the lady to her Lord?’
G1: ‘How come her eyes turn red like rubies in corners?’
G2: ‘The arrows of her looks askance stuck on her dear Lord and
withdrawn in embarrassment must’ve left the blood stains there!
Don’t you think so?’
G1: ‘How come she shines so brilliantly through her bodice?
G2: ‘The crescent marks left by the playful Lord on her exude
moonlight in summer season. Can’t you guess, O’ maids?’
G1: ‘Tell us, wherefore are those drops of pearls on the lady’s pretty
cheeks?’
G2: ‘Aren’t they beautiful drops of sweat on her gentle face resulting
from the mischievous Lord Venkatapati’s dalliance with her?’
Mangala Harati : Annamayya offers mangala harati to Goddess Sri
Mahalakshmi in his composition, “ksiraabdhi kanyakaku Sri Mahalakshmi
kini.” He celebrates the grace and charm of her form and greets her with
the lighted camphor. He uses a number of similes and metaphors to
describe her beauty.
Let me offer auspicious lighted camphor
To the ever-rising natural graces of Alamelmanga!!
Like Annamayya, let us also lit the auspicious lamps and wave
them before the Goddess Alamelmanga on the occasion of her utsavas
and seek Her blessings!
On the auspicious occasion of
Panchami Theertham at
Tiruchanur, the 'Saare' (gifts) Think it over...
from Lord Srinivasa reaches
Tiruchanur in a grand Q1. Name the poet who praised Goddess Padmavathi
procession during the wee
hours which is brought on finely devi?
decorated elephants. These
'saare' includes - Turmeric, Answer in Page No. 44
vermilion, garlands etc. will be
adorned to the Goddess is eye
feast to the eyes.

10 DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI

 I n d i a n among the Triad, enters Vaikunta, the abode of Lord Vishnu, he finds the Lord
engrossed in an affectionate banter with his spouse Goddess Lakshmi, quite
mythology has stories
for all situations. Epics oblivious of the sage’s entry. Having already been disregarded and unnoticed
like Ramayana, by Lord Brahma and Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu’s behaviour proves the last straw
Mahabharatha, Srimad to the sage. In a fit of uncontrollable fury, he rushes towards the Lord and
Bhagavatha etc. kicks him on his chest – the abode of Goddess Lakshmi. Lord Vishnu, a divine
comprise stories to suit maverick, does not lose his temper with the sage. He pacifies the sage by
all occasions. Through pressing the latter’s foot on the pretext that he might have got hurt in the
the fabric of every story process of kicking him on his bejewelled chest. Soothing the sage’s ruffled
is woven some ethical feathers, He crushes the eye (Sage Bhrigu is known to have a third eye in his
message – a message foot, a window to his knowledge as well as ego) in the foot of the sage.
that helps build an Meanwhile, the self-esteem of Goddess Lakshmi is wounded at the
individual’s character. ‘humiliating act’ of Lord Vishnu. She leaves Vaikunta in a huff and Lord Vishnu
The stories have been in agony. Lord Vishnu goes in search of Lakshmi, who is supposed to have
off-shoots of the then settled at Kolhapur. But he is unable to gain her grace. Turning a migrant, he
prevailing societal starts searching for her and thus reaches the forest of Seshachalam.
norms; those that aided
Loan from Kubera
in nurturing
personalities to meet Meanwhile, Goddess Lakshmi reincarnates as Padmavathi, daughter
the requirements of the of King Akasa Raja. The story of Lord Vishnu falling in love with Princess
then traditional
yardstick. The story of
ALAMELUMANGAPURAM (TIRUCHANUR) :
Lord Venkateswara and
Tiruchanur, also known as Alamelumangapuram,
his consort Goddess
located about 5 kms from Tirupati. The Temple of Sri
Padmavathi is one such Padmavathi Devi, the consort of Lord Venkateswara is
story that brings out situated in this place. It is said that the visit to Tirumala
various complexities of is fruitful only after a visit to Sri Padmavathi Devi Temple
life. at Tiruchanur. Therefore, after visiting the temples at
Tirumala and Tirupati, the pilgrims proceed to Tiruchanur
Crushes the ego to worship Goddess Padmavathi Devi. The sacred tank
When Sage adjoining the Padmavathi Devi Temple is called Padma
Sarovar. The legend is that the Goddess revealed Herself
Bhrigu, who is out on an
on a lotus in this sacred tank.
errand to determine and
nominate the nonpareil

DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI 11

Padmavathi; and Mother Vakula conveying the
proposal to Princess Padmavathi’s father is well-
known. So is the succeeding wedding tale wherein
Lord Venkateswara or Lord Srinivasa (as Lord
Vishnu is called or known from then on) requests
for a loan from Kubera, the God of Wealth is
popular and established. Isn’t that the reason why
even till date Lord Srinivasa is still said to be
repaying the loan he took for his wedding?
Perceiving the entire story from a different
angle – Lakshmi, Padmavathi, Vedavati, all the
women have been mentioned to be consorts of
the Lord. Be it either in Treta Yuga or Kali Yuga,
the truth is clear for anyone to see. They have
always been the ‘better halves’ of their husbands;
while the husbands remain mere ‘other halves’. If
the woman leaves her husband, be it for any
reason, the Man (even if he is a God) turns
spiritless and irresolute. He laments at the loss
and goes to any extent to regain his life’s soul back
again. He is ready to fight a battle, ready to take a
loan (repaying which has not been possible), ready to do anything for ‘her’. A woman is shown to be the
animating spirit, the driving force in a man’s life. The
significance of a woman has been well brought out
in our mythology.
Quite averse to all these truths, we tend to pray
to the Goddess, but feel disinclined to accept our
mothers, sisters, wives and other women as equals
or accord them the necessary respect. It is not a
simple claim to a faith that makes us followers of the
faith; but complying to conform to the faith and its
messages that makes us true to it.

Think it over...

Q2. Who requests loan from Kubera?

Answer in Page No. 44

12 DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI

 T iruchanur is a holy town very close to the
pilgrimage city of Tirupati. It is the sacred abode of
with his meditation without according any response
to Bhrigu’s arrival. Angered by this and hoping he
Goddess Sri Padmavati. The Goddess of will get a favourable reception at Vaikunta, Sage
Tiruchanur is also known by the name Alarmel Bhrigu leaves Satyaloka in a huff.
Manga and the place accordingly as
Bhrigu arrives at Vaikunta and sees Maha
Alarmelumangapuram
Vishnu in a reclining position atop the Adisesha along
Goddess Padmavati is the divine consort of with Mahalakshmi. Bhrigu tries to get the attention
Sri Venkateswara, the abode of Tirumala. There is of his presence, but Maha Vishnu, unmindful of his
a legend that describes the story behind the arrival continues with his chores. Annoyed at these
appearance of Goddess Padmavati in the holy town incidents and the happenings that were in contrast
of Tiruchanur. to his expectations, in a fit of anger, Sage Bhrigu
There are two separate but connected kicks Vishnu on his chest, the place where Sri
incidents that attribute significance to the name Mahalakshmi resides.
Padmavati. Once, at a gathering of rishis in
Surprisingly, Lord Vishnu does not feel
Naimisharanyam, there ensues a discussion as to
disconcerted, and instead presses the sage’s feet,
whom should the yagnaphalam be offered. Sage
enquiring about the foot’s condition, perhaps
Bhrigu is assigned the responsibility of determining
sarcastically in having had to hit his chest and getting
this. In order to ascertain the right person to receive
the yagnaphalam, Bhrigu sets out to visit the injured in the process. Nonetheless, Sage Bhrigu
trimurtis—Brahma, Shiva and Vishnu. Bhrigu visits gets his share of woe in the form of his ego being
Kailasa to check Lord Shiva. When Brighu entered crushed. Mahalakshmi, who witnesses this scene,
Kailasa, he found Lord Shiva sporting with Goddess is quite unhappy with the way Vishnu dealt with
Parvati without even noticing his arrival. Sad at this, Bhrigu and feels displeased that her resting place
Bhrigu proceeds to Satyaloka, the abode of Lord of chest is targeted by an ordinary being and she
Brahma. Here too he finds Brahma preoccupied leaves Vaikuntam in a huff.

DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI 13

 Goddess Lakshmi’s disappearance was like a flower deprived of On one Friday morning,
its perfume and Vishnu feels lifeless and in despair. Meanwhile, there appeared a bright light
Mahalakshmi comes down to Bhulokam and settles in a place called in Kolhapur making the place
Karavirapuram (now Kolhapur in Maharastra) in her Ugra form. Vishnu glitter more than usual. As the
Lord was walking to get his
looking out for Mahalakshmi roams all over and then arriving at the
daily penance going, he heard
Venkatadri hill, decides to enter an anthill under a tamarind tree for
a voice (Akasavani) that
meditation. Brahma and Shiva, in order to serve him appear in the form explained to him that
of a cow and calf, get sold to the Chola king of the place. The same Chola Mahalakshmi having
king later is born as Akasha Raja to king Sudharma and later begets a ascended to Kolhapur has
daughter Padmavati, who marries Srinivasa. taken an ugra (ferocious) form
for the sake of lokakalyana
Srinivasa, post his marriage with Padmavathi continues to find
and so was not appropriate for
himself at loss, without Mahalakshmi’s presence and recognizes that Vishnu to seek her
this disturbance was coming in the way of him performing his tasks and appearance. Further, the
fulfilling the prayers of his devotees. He decides to look out for Maha voice directed the Lord to
Lakshmi and seek Padmavati’s consent and knowing about her presence create a lotus pond on the
in Kolhapur proceeds to Kolhapur. Awe-struck Lord Srinivasa feels bank of the river
delighted to enter Kolhapur, the city with its majestic and magnificent Swarnamukhi and fill it with
look. The city and the temple decked with precious gems, diamonds, golden lotuses to undertake
gold and silver, was vibrating with splendid music and divine sounds. In penance and receive the
grace of Mahalakshmi.
the centre of the Chintamani hall was seated Mahalakshmi in divine glory
and majesty. The devas and large number of people throng the entrance Lord Completed the
waiting for the darshan of the devi. The rishis, devas and pious men there Penance
take a glance at Vishnu and wonder why this person who appeared bright Accordingly, Lord
wore a saddened look. But soon they were distracted by the beauty and Srinivasa chooses a place on
magnetic appearance of Mahalakshmi. The Lord feels very sad that the northern bank of river
Mahalakshmi gave darshan to everyone else but him. Dismayed, but Swarnamukhi where Shuka
Maharshi had an ashram.
determined to get her, the Lord begins to perform penance. For 10 years,
There he builds a pond and
the Lord undertakes a severe penance but Mahalakshmi was in no mood
plants divine golden lotuses.
to relent.
To ensure that they always
bloom, the Lord installs sun
god on the eastern side of the
pond. At this place, the Lord
begins an intense penance to
seek the grace of
Mahalakshmi to ensure the
welfare of the world. During
the penance, Lord
encounters many hurdles in
the form of disruptions and
distractions, but he continues
the penance with greater
severity. This way the Lord
completes 12 years of
penance.

14 DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI

 In the meantime, several rishis including Ammavari Brahmotsavams
Sri Kapila approach Mahalakshmi and Every year, in the month of Kartika a 9 day
appraise her of the state of Vishnu and his Brahmotsava festival is held that concludes on the
unrelenting penance in order to obtain her and Panchami day. Ammavaru will adorn on several different
plead with her to accede to the wishes of the vahanams like Sesha, Garuda, Gaja, Hanuma, Aswa etc.
Lord. Rishi Bhrigu also goes to her to seek On the last day i.e., on Panchami day much awaited
pardon for being the cause of their separation festival is celebrated with grandness and merriment. It is
and also mentions that his act of kicking was customary for Goddess Padmavati devi to receive from
provoked by his discussion with Sri Narada, Lord Srinivasa of Tirumala, a precious silk saree,
where he wants to prove to the world Lord ornaments, turmeric and vermillion etc., all carried with
Vishnu’s kindness and Mahalakshmi’s divine reverence on foot and on elephant from Tirumala to
love. Rishi Bhrigu pleads for forgiveness and
requests her to join Vishnu for the sake of
world’s welfare. Mahalakshmi also feels
convinced of the need to end the separation
and hence yields to the request.
In the Kartika month, suklapaksha
panchami falling on a Friday, combined with
the uttarashadha star, Sri Mahalakshmi
appears in the golden lotus pond. Decked with
the most precious and best among the gems,
diamonds and precious stones, she presents
herself with a divine spectacle and blissful joy.
Appearing, with face resembling the full moon,
glittering eyes, sharp nose, smile on the lips Tiruchanur. The Brahmotsavam concludes with the
and white brightening teeth, dark black curly Panchami theertham at Padmasarovaram.
hair and divine posture she presents herself Thousands of devotees visit this place every day to
amidst the joy and flower showers, pleasing have a darshan and receive the blessings of Sri Padmavati
the gandarvas, yakshas etc., devi, who is eager to see them and bless them with
happiness and providing them with a divine and
Since she appears on top of a lotus bud,
transformational experience in each of the visit, which is
she has come to be called by the name
usually done alongside a visit to Tirumala. But, at present
Alarmelu or Alamelu. She symbolizes
due to covid-19, last year Brahmotsavams were
everything that is auspicious and hence goes
performed in ekantham. May Goddess Padmavati devi
by the name Alarmelumanga. along with Lord Srinivasa bless all the devotees with
At Tiruchanur, Sri Mahalakshmi in the everlasting happiness and bliss !!
form of Goddess Padmavati appears in a
padma or lotus and is adored as the principal Think it over...
deity. Seated in a Padmasana, with four
hands, two of them holding lotuses in each of Q3. Goddess Sri Padmavathi devi is
them and the other two at the front having also known as -
Abhaya and Varada mudras, she waits to
Answer in Page No. 44
shower her blessings and is eager and ready
to fulfil the genuine wishes of her devotees.

DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI 15

 T
The great sages joyously extolled Her with the
he ‘Sree Sukta’ is a collection of Mantras hymns of the Sree Sukta.
that occurs in the ‘khila’ portion of the Rig Veda. This clarifies several aspects regarding the
‘Khila’ literally means an ‘appendage’, meaning it is Sree Sukta. First, the deity praised by the Sree Sukta
is revealed to be none other than Goddess
an extension of the larger portion of the Rig Vedic
Mahalakshmi. Second, the validity of the Sree Sukta
text. Because of this connotation, it is wrongly as the appropriate praise of Goddess Lakshmi is
believed that these portions of the Rig Vedic text made clear. Thus, the word ‘Sree’ denotes none
are later additions, and often these texts are labelled other than Goddess Lakshmi.
as being ‘apocryphal’. Such interpretations however
Further, the Markandeya Purana (25-16)
are far from the truth. Several mantras that occur in also reveals-
the ‘khila’ portion are indeed considered as valid
Sriyanca devadevasya patni narayanasya ca ya
means of comprehending the true nature of the
Supreme. “Goddess Sree, who is the consort of Lord
Narayana, the God of Gods!”
The conventional (generally known) meaning
of the word ‘Sree’ is ‘wealth’ or ‘auspiciousness’. It From all this, it becomes clear that the
appellation ‘Sree’ uniquely denotes Goddess
is also generally known that Goddess Lakshmi is
Mahalakshmi alone. Indeed, the appellation ‘Sree’
the presiding deity who bestows all kinds of wealth, is also derived from various verbal roots to give the
and therefore the name ‘Sree’ appropriately denotes following etymological meanings. These meanings
Her. describe the attributes of the consort of Vishnu-
Goddess Lakshmi.
Goddess Incarnation : This fact is
made clear in the 9th chapter of First, the word Sree derives
the first ‘amsa’ of the Vishnu from the root srin sevayam,
Purana, where Sage where the root ‘srin’ denotes
‘to serve’ or ‘to be sought’ as
Parashara narrates the
refuge (Panini Dhatu - 897).
episode of Goddess From this root, we derive
Lakshmi’s incarnation. two verbal forms -
As the Goddess
1) ‘sriyate’- She is ‘to be
emerges from the
served’ or ‘to be
milk ocean, it is said-
revered/ worshipped’
tam tustuvurmuda or ‘to be sought’; and
yuktah srisuktena
maharsayah.. 2) ‘srayate’- She
101… ‘serves’ or ‘She
takes refuge’.

16 DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI

Mother of the universe : The verbal form ‘sriyate’- by Him. The Goddess and the Lord are inseparably
‘the one who is served’ indicates that She is the united by the sentiment of ‘Vallabhyam’- ‘being
one to be ‘served’ or the one ‘to be sought as refuge’ exceedingly dear to each other’. The Lord therefore
by everyone. Why is She to be served or sought as always honors Her requests and becomes favorable
refuge? First- As the Mother of the entire universe, towards the devotees. Thus, She is called ‘Sree’-
She becomes the ‘sarvadhara’- or the ‘support’ or ‘the one who makes (the Lord) listen’ (to the
‘refuge’ of everyone, and in this way She ‘provides pleadings of devotees).
refuge’. For this reason, She is to be served.
These two etymological derivates of the
Second- being the Mother, She also performs the
appellation ‘Sree’ also denote Her special role of
special role of being the ‘purusakara’ or ‘mediatrix’
being the ‘purusakara’ or ‘mediatrix’ between the
between the Lord (who intends to punish those that
Lord and the Jivatma.
commit sins) and the Jivatma (who is intent on
seeking release from the endless cycle of karmas). Next, the word Sree derives from the root ‘sr
In this way also ‘She protects’, and for this reason himsayam’, where the root ‘sr’ denotes ‘to destroy’
She is to be served. Third- being the Goddess who or to remove (Panini Dhatu - 1488). This lends the
can bestow all fruits, She becomes the Upaya or verbal form-
‘the means’ for the seekers of liberation, and for this 5) ‘srnati’- ‘She destroys’.
reason as well, She is the one ‘to be served’ or
‘sought as refuge’. Thus, She is called as Sree- What does She destroy? Being the Mother of
‘the one to be revered’. the universe, She is incapable of destruction.
However, She is well capable of destroying the host
The second verbal form ‘srayate’- ‘to serve’ of our sins, which come in the way of our attaining
or ‘to take refuge’ indicates that She ‘takes refuge’ servitude to the feet of the Lord. Thus She ‘removes’
in Her consort-the Supreme Lord, for the welfare of our obstacles in the path of our spiritual progress.
this universe. Thus, She is called as Sree- ‘the one Because She ‘destroys’ our sins, She is called
who seeks refuge’ in the Lord.
Sree. The word Sree can also derive from the root
The word Sree also derives from the verbal ‘srin pake’, ‘srin’ means ‘to cook or to ripen’ (Panini
root ‘sru sravane’, where ‘sru’ is used in the sense Dhatu - 1475). From this verbal root, we derive the
‘to hear’ (Panini Dhatu - 942). From this root, we form.
derive two other verbal forms –
6) ‘srinati’- ‘She ripens’.
3) ‘srnoti’- She hears or She listens
This indicates that She not only quells our evil
4) ‘sravayati’- She makes (the Lord) hear qualities, but She goes on to promote the good and
The verbal form ‘srnoti’- ‘She hears’ indicates auspicious attributes in us, which become favorable
that She is always ready to hear the pleadings and to the attainment of servitude of the feet of the Lord.
painful cries of the devotees and also of the sinners She makes us fit for serving the Lord. Because ‘She
who are desirous of redeeming themselves. Being matures’ favorable attributes in us, She is called
the Mother, She bears the attribute of ‘Vatsalyam’ or Sree.
‘compassion’ towards all beings. Thus, She is ever These six etymological meanings of the divine
ready to listen to the cries of devotees. For this appellation ‘Sree’ are declared in the Ahirbudhnya
reason, She is called as Sree- ‘the one who listens’ Samhita of the Pancharatra Agama:
(to our pleadings). srnati nikhilan dosan srinati ca gunairjagat
Further, the verbal form ‘sravayati’- ‘She sriyate cakhilairnityam srayate ca param padam..
(51-62)
causes to hear’ indicates that She not only listens “She destroys (srnati) all sins, She matures
to the pleadings of the devotees, but also ensures (srinati) the attributes of the universe.
that She pleads with the Lord on behalf of the She is the refuge (sriyate) for all, at all times, She
devotees and ensures that their pleadings are ‘heard’ takes refuge (srayate) in the Supreme Lord.”

DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI 17

 And again appropriate refuge for all and that She bestows all
srayantim sriyamanam ca srnantim srnvatimapi.. kinds of wealth, inclusive of the most exalted fruit-
(21-8) moksha! We therefore seek refuge at the feet of
She takes refuge (srayantim) (in the Lord for the our Mother, Goddess Mahalakshmi.
welfare of the universe),
She is the one to be sought as refuge Think it over...
(sriyamana) by all,
She is the one who ripens (srnanti) (our good Q4. Name the suktam mentioned in the
qualities), and article
She is also the one who listens (srnvati) (to the Answer in Page No. 44
pleadings of devotees)
From these scriptural statements, it becomes
clear that Goddess Mahalakshmi is indeed the

PUZZLE
1 2 3 4 5 6
01. Son of Suvarcha (9)
02. Loud enough to hear (7)
03. Twelve months (4)
7
04. Drug (Jumbled) (5)
8

DOWN
05. Later in time (5)
06. Permit (5)
10. Goddess Lakshmi (4)
11. Fast (5)
9 10 11 12
12. Smell (5)
16. Include (3)
17. Period of time in History (3)
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14 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456
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CLUES FOR PUZZLE
13 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456
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01. Son of Srikrishna (9)

15 17
07. Wife of Pippalada (5)
16
08. Till (5)
ACROSS

09. Goddess Parvathi (4)

10. Grief (6)
19
13. Very old (4)
18
14. Poverty (4)
15. Father of Dattatreya (5)
16. Worship (5)
Presented by 18. Balarama (5)
Sri T.S. Jagan Mohan 19. Wife of Drona (5)

18 DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI

 birth, you observed this vrata and so spent your life after death
in Vishnuloka, and that was nearly one thousand years. In this
life, you are born as a queen. Because of your wealth and
consequent pride, you forgot to observe the Lakshmi vrata.
Your future won’t be bright,” cautioned the old woman.

The angry queen failed to understand that it was Goddess

Lakshmi herself in the disguise of an old woman advising her.
Therefore, Queen Chandrika shooed her away after slapping
her.

Princess Shyamabala returning from her play on the

shores of the ocean met the weeping old woman and probed
the matter. When the old woman repeated, the princess
promised to observe the Vrata herself. She kept her word.
“My name is Padma. I am here to Later when the princess got married and left her parental
remind your queen of her earlier life. Allow home for her marital home, prosperity disappeared from the
me to meet her,” said an elderly woman palace of Queen Chandrika. The royal couple became very
to a sentry guarding the palace of Queen poor. Hunger drove them to the palace of their
Chandrika. daughter.
The matter was reported to the Princess Shyamabala, unable to
Queen, who immediately rushed to the bear the sight of her poor parents, fed
door. them and cared for them.When they
‘Listen, O queen! In an earlier life, wanted to leave she gave them a lot
you were an unhappy wife. After a quarrel of gold to take home. But when the
with your husband, you left your marital couple reached their home, the gold
home. I met you at that desperate hour they carried with them turned into
and advised you to perform ‘Lakshmi lumps of coal.
Vrata’ that would bring you a lot of ‘punya’. Disappointed Chandrika went
You obeyed. This accumulated ‘punya’ to her daughter and told of the
took you to Vishnuloka where you spent misfortune she had experienced. The
many years after your death. In each time of her second visit coincided with

DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI 19

the designated time for Lakshmi Vrata. Shyamabala of the worlds) she was Sri (loved by everyone).
forcibly made her mother observe the rite. When he was Hari (the saviour), she was Padma,
or Kamala. When he was Parasurama, she was
When Chandrika returned home, she found
Dharani. She was Sita when Vishnu was Rama,
to her delight all the lumps of coal turned to gold.
and Rukmini when he was Krishna. Vishnu
Prosperity was restored.
represents the power of maintenance. As the
Glorifies Goddess Lakshmi maintainer of the entire universe, he must by all
This story from ‘Padma Purana’ speaks of the means be wealthy. Hence, the Goddess of Wealth
significance of ‘Lakshmi Vrata’, a religious rite, and follows him like his shadow.
glorifies Goddess Lakshmi. Paintings on walls and Vishnu Purana reports, “If Vishnu takes a
statues in temples show Goddess Lakshmi as a celestial form, Padma appears as Divine; if a mortal,
lady of a bright golden colour, seated on a lotus. she becomes a mortal too, transforming her own
Hence, she is known by the name Padma (the lotus) person agreeably to whatever character it pleases
Padmalaya or Padmavati (she who dwells on a Vishnu to assume”. In short, in all forms of Vishnu,
lotus). Mostly known as Lokamata (the Mother of she was His associate. And this is proof enough for
the world), she is the Goddess of Love, Beauty and the Tamil saying,”Be it bird or beast, god or man, all
Prosperity. Above all she is known by the name that is male is Vishnu and all that is female is
Haripriya (the beloved of Hari, another name of Lakshmi.” Folklore recounts several tales in which
Vishnu, the protector). Goddess Padmavati is born as a princess who
Quite popular as Goddess Lakshmi among marries a prince who turns out to be Lord Vishnu in
the Hindus, her name rotates in the human tongue disguise, whom she loves, life after life.
during both prosperity and adversity. When Cow is Goddess Lakshmi
someone is prospering in wealth, others invariably
To every pious Hindu woman, the cow is an
say “Oh, Lakshmi has come to dwell with him” and
incarnation of Lakshmi. No wonder she uses cow-
during the time of that someone’s adversity, the same
dung diluted in water to keep the front yard of her
people say, “Oh, Lakshmi has abandoned him.” It
house germ-free. For her, cow dung is both fuel
must be noted that prosperity does not simply mean
and fertilizer, the very basis of Indian economy. Now
wealth. It also includes the nobler aspects of life
T.T.D. has taken up many Gosamrakshana
like moral and ethical values, and the power of the
programmes in the recent times which included Go-
mind and intellect. Lakshmi does not like to dwell in
based naivedyam to Srivaru, Navaneeta Seva,
one place and this may be the reason why she is
production of panchagavya products etc.
also known as Chanchala (the fickle-minded).

Various names Think it over...

Goddess Lakshmi is both giver and taker. Her Q5. Name the vrata narrated in the
act is quite illustrative of the saying, “To those who article
give all is given”. She, being the consort of Vishnu,
Answer in Page No. 44
appears in various names in her Lord’s various
incarnations. When he was Janardhana (the Lord

20 DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI

 L ord Sri Venkateswara of Tirumala is
worshipped in Kaliyuga as the Supreme Deity.
Devotees entreat their prayers and their
prayers are fulfilled; and hence they come
again and again and offer their devotion.

Lord Sri Venkateswara enjoys daily

routine pujas like Suprabatham, Thomala,
Archana, Kalyana Utsava, Unjal Seva,
Sahasradeepa Alankarana Seva etc. and
special utsavas like Sahasra Kalasabishekam,
Archana etc. Apart from these, the Lord enjoys
annual utsavams like Brahmotsavam (some
times twice), Pavitrotsavam,
Adhyayanotsavam etc.

In spite of heavy rush of devotees, and

heavy schedules of Pujas, the rituals are
carried out as per the rules and regulations
prescribed in the scriptures, by archakas and
learned Vedic scholars. This maintains the
sacredness of the temple. The management
authorities play their part to maintain the purity
of the temple in an exemplary manner.

Let us go through the temple activities

during Dhanurmasa in brief in this article.

Dhanurmasa (Mid December to Mid

January) is considered highly auspicious. The
Beginning of Dhanurmasa is marked by the
transit of the Sun into DhanurRasi. This is also
called DhanusSankramana.

DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI 21

Importance and significance of Dhanurmasam Sri Thondaradippodi Alwar and Tiruppavai of Andal
are recited.
As per Hindu Scriptures, Dhakshinayana (the
movement of Sun towards south) is the night time During Dhanurmasa Aradhana, Archana with
for Devas (demi-gods). Dhanurmasa is the last Bilva leaves, Dhanurmasa Naivedyam, Sathumuarai
month of Dhakshinayana. Gods wake up in the early are performed in a great way.
morning (Dhanurmasa) Brahma Muhurtha- about During Dhanurmasa, instead of regular
one and half hours before the Sun rise- and offer sayana bera (idol), silver idol of Lord Krishna is kept
special prayers to the Lord. Pujas offered to the Lord in the Sanctum, enjoys the Sayanotsavam daily for
even on a single day during Dhanurmasa is very 30 days. He is then offered warm milk, fried nuts,
auspicious. fruits and betel nuts.
Dhanurmasa is also called Margali masam. Adyayanotsavam
Sri Krishna has declared that “Maasaanaam
The most important and sacred utsava during
maargaseershoham” in Srimad Bhagavat Gita- "I
Dhanurmasam, is Adhyayanotsava. Adhyana
manifest more in the month of Maargaseersham
means repeated chanting of holy verses. In
(dhanurmasa) among the different months of the
Tirumala, the Naalaayira Divya Prabandham, the
year”. So Dhanurmasa gets importance.
literary works of twelve Alwars, are recited for a
Further Andal (Goda Devi) performed Paavi period of 21 days, beginning with the most
Nombu- a vrata to get the Lord as her consort in auspicious day of Vaikuntha Ekadasi, falling exactly
this month. In fact her Tiruppavai prabandham in the midst of the period.
describes her Vrata during Dhanurmasa in full detail.
The first ten days are known as Pagalpathu
Some even call Dhanurmasa as Tiruppavai month (day time festival), and the second ten days are
(During Dhanurmasam, lectures on Tiruppavai are called RaaPathu (night time festival). The first day
arranged at many places all over South India). of RaaPathu is Vaikunta Ekadasi. The holiest of
Dhanurmasa is said to be the most sacred Ekadasis as per Vaishnava agama is Vaikuntha
one for observing worship, vratas and spiritual Ekadasi. Sri Nammalwar is believed to have
activities to obtain salvation. ascended Sri Vaikuntam (the Holy abode of Sriman
Narayana) on this day.
In Tirumala
Srivari Utsava Murthy, Sri Malayappa swami
Special rituals are offered to Lord Sri
with His Divine Consorts adorn Ranganayaka
Venkateswara at Tirumala shrine during
Mandapam during Adhyayana Utsavam. The idols
Dhanurmasa. For the entire 30 days, the Lord is
of Sri Vishvaksena and Sri Ramanuja take part in
worshipped as Lord Krishna.
the Adyayana Utsavam.
There are some changes in the rituals (daily
During Dhanurmasa Naivedyam, Jaggery
routines) during Dhanurmasa in Tirumala. The most
Dosa, Mudgannam (venpongal), are offered
prominent change is that instead of normal
to the Lord in Tirumala.
Suprabatham performed daily, TiruppalliEzhuchi of

22 DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI

 During Dhanurmasam, the Vaikunta Ekadasi festival is Tirupati Sri Govindaraja swami
celebrated with pomp and pleasure but following the holy rituals. temple Andal Sannidhi. Flower
Koil Alwar Tirumanjanam, (purifying the entire temple premises) is garlands from Andal Sannidhi from
performed prior to the ensuing Vaikuntha Ekadasi festival. The most Tirupati are carried ceremoniously to
auspicious Vaikuntha Dwara is opened for procession. Devotees Tirumala and are adorned to the
consider it highly holy to go for a pradakshina through this sacred Dhruva Bera- idol of Srivaru.
door. It is believed that whoever has the darshan of the Lord and
At the end of Dhanurmasa,
does pradakshina by passing through Vaikunta Dwara on this day,
garlands and other sacred items
will surely reach Vaikunta in due course and get the blessings of
brought from Srivilliputur Sri Andal
the Lord. On Vaikuntha Ekadasi, we can have the Darshan of Sri
Sannidhi are offered to Lord Sri
Malayappa Swami on Swarna Ratham (Chariot).
Venkateswara.
On the Vaikunta Dwadasi, the Sacred Chakrathalwar is taken
TTD during Dhanurmasam
in procession to the Temple tank called Swami Pushkarini for a
Apart from making all
Holy bath-Tirumanjanam. This is performed commemorating
arrangements for smooth running of
Swami Pushkarini Theertha Mukkoti. (But at present due to Covid-
rituals, TTD takes pride in
19, these rituals are done in the temple only).
propagating Tiruppavai. Last year
It is believed that on this Dwadasi day, all the Holy theerthas
upanyasams (lectures) were given
on earth congregate in Swami Pushkarini. Hence, devotees take
in Pedda Jeeyar Mutt during
bath in Swami Pushkarini after the Chakra Snanam, to wash off
Dhanurmasam.
their sins. It is said that after bath in the Pushkarini, if one offers
Those who worship with
charity to the poor, he will be blessed by the Lord.
devotion during Dhanurmasam will
The Dhanurmasa celebrations conclude with Bhogi festival
get the choicest Blessings of the
on the 30th day and Goda (Andal) Tirukkalyanam is performed in
Lord obtaining peace and prosperity
in the life after.

Namo Sri Venkatesaya

Think it over...

Q6. Who performed

Paavai Nombu
(vrata) in
Dhanurmasam?

Answer in Page No. 44

DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI 23

 Paramathma (the omnipotent) specifically mentioned
this point in Bhagavadgita. Visiting a teacher and getting
his blessings is not the matter. What matters is the
behavior. Our future depends on the way we behave
with our teachers.
With this point, one can predict the future of
Duryodhana. Why did Duryodhana get defeated? He
lost the battle because he insulted his Guru.
Duryodhana expressed his doubts about Dronacharya
when the war was about to start. Duryodana insulted
Series - 8 Dronacharya exactly, at the beginning of the war when
Lord Ganesh was invoked for success. Imagine what
happens when Lord Ganesh was insulted instead of
prayed for. The same happened to Duryodhana. Who
is Guru? Evidently, He is a paramathma. (the
Omnipotent). He insulted such a Paramathama. As
he had insulted, he did not get success. That he would
win the war is the general expectation. He did not get
that common expected result. But Arjuna received it.
He took the shelter of Great Lord Krishna. He
requested him obediently, “I do not know what to do?
You advise me and put an end to this.” One should
Continued from the previous issue observe the difference in the conversation of
(In the previous episode, Drupada felt Duryodhana and Arjuna. One must not behave like
insulted and wanted to take revenge on Duryodhana in any circumstances. One must behave
Dronacharya. He did penance for a son who like Arjuna. This is the point that is raised in
could kill Dronacharya. As a result, a son and a Bhagavadgita by Paramathma. Not only this but one
daughter were born to him. He named his son’s has to express one’s feeling with others convincingly
name Dhrishtadyumna. To make him skilled, he without hurting others.
admitted his son in Dronacharya’s ashram. Hiding the feelings of jealousy, Duryodhana
Despite knowing very well that Dhrishtadyumna
tried to express his feelings with the most common
was born to kill him, Dronacharya accepted him
terms used by the people. How disgusting it is! No
and trained him in all arts. Dhrishtadyumna was
one should do like that not only with Guru but also with
also so intelligent that he had acted as
others. The words that one uses should have only
Commander-in-chief on the side of Pandavas and
single meaning. In case there are two meanings for a
was leading the war troops inspite of many
word, then that meaning should give happiness but
challenges)
not sadness. ‘Only men like Duryodhana can use
Duryodhana said to Dronacharya, “Let us double meaning words’ says Bhagavadgita. When the
know the consequence of this. Why didn’t you teacher is in front of us, obediently offer prayers,
kill him in the beginning? Shall I talk about his convince him and eventually receive his blessings.
intelligence? Dhrishtadyumna is ‘Dheematha’ (
meaning intelligent). He absorbed all skills from If you behave like Duryodhana, you will not
you to kill you. He is clever. You are foolish. You receive any fruit ( good results). If you act like Arjuna,
are such a fool that you have risked my life in omnipotent Sri Krishna will always bless you. It is
war with your foolishness.” Is it right to talk in clearly mentioned in the slokas of Bhagavadgita. It is
such a manner with a teacher (Guru)? not easy to imbibe or follow the words said in
Duryodhana was not bothered about values. His Bhagavadgita at one go. To imbibe virtuous words of
Guru was standing for him. But Duryodhana was Bhagavadgita one should often listen to them and
talking as if he was churning and twisting the pronounce them again and again with concentration
muscles in the stomach of his guru. We should and determination. The blessings of a teacher leads
not talk in such a manner with anyone, by any the scholar towards successful and pious journey.
means, at any level. We should behave politely Never forget to make a habit of ethical and right attitude.
and obediently but not in any other way. (to be continued)

24 DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI

 ALVARS ON LORD VENKATESWARA - 8

All his life, Nammalvar’s thoughts would section of the first decad opens with a quickening
often reach the Venkata Hill and remain there, even sprint:
if he were engaged in hailing the Supreme in other
“He rides the speeding Garuda
areas and forms. This is how we find stray gems
Wearing Tulasi leaves
throughout in the vast presentation of Tiruvaimoli.
That stand up straight
In counting, the work has more than a thousand
And dance: O,my Lord!”(1-8-1)
verses. We have already had a view of twenty-
two of them. We also get to be introduced to But we get arrested in the third verse as we
Nammalvar’s crystalline bhakti and poetic elan in realise that we need not go in search of celestial
all decads. As we are reading or reciting, suddenly regions to see Him being served by gods. Quite
the Venkata Hill appears before us as if spreading easily we can have the glorious sight in our Venkata
its own fragrance. Each space chosen by the Lord Hill where the gods themselves descend to serve
to stay for being worshipped is wonderful, of Lord Venkateswara!
course. This is because Narayana is a rasika par “It is true the Lord is very dear
excellence. Areas where a great river like the To gods and men;
Kaveri flows all the time, spaces that are rich However, the gods themselves
with trees that rain scented flowers all the time, Descend to Venkata Hill
hilly tracts and other spaces chosen by Nature to Ruled by Lord Venkateswara.”(1-8-3)
be particularly beautiful are plenty when we read Sometimes a verse in Tiruvaimoli that
about more than hundred places specially chosen touches upon the Venkata Hill can embrace all
by the Lord as his residence. But Venkata Hill is Time, all humanity and all desires as we measure
unique, we exclaim when we spot such verses in them.
the Tiruvaimoli.Thus we chance upon a verse and “Times that keep passing, the time past,
stop in our tracks for it makes us think. The eighth Time that is yet to pass, mother,

DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI 25

Father, life, everything is only you; the intense passion a devotee exercises towards
Having gained you now, Would I let you go? his ishta devata.
Lord of three worlds, who art indeed “My friends wearing bangles beautiful!
famed from times immemorial; the Supreme! Let me tell you what happened. I have been
You have preferred to come to Venkatam Shamed by Him, the artful person.
To rule over it! Wearer of Tulsi garland I look everywhere, but cannot see him.
That is always sweet-scented!”(2-6-10) My bangles have become loose.
As we keep reciting the Tiruvaimoli, we are My complexion has lost its glow.
never disappointed for each verse is full of fond My breasts have lost their firmness.
astonishment at the ways of the Lord. Usually it is All because I went seeking him
one of wonderment at the easy manner in which The Lord of Venkata Hill
the Lord remains our unfailing guardian, though He Who rides the fierce-eyed Garuda.”(8-2-1)
has the entire creation to look after! We know this Such bridal mysticism which originated in
and yet get worried that we cannot see Him in ancient Tamil poetry has been an important part of
person. Where is He then? How can we be assured human aspirations for the Divine and would give us
that He is near us all the time? Faith and disbelief classics even in Sanskrit like the Gita Govinda of
try to cancel each other in many verses. Jayadeva. So, whichever verse of Nammalvar we
“You are in the heavens above; stand take, we will find it to be dealing with several of the
Upon the hill; rest on the ocean; rasas, and always pointing towards the at-one-ment
Walk around on the earth; surely with the Lord Venkateswara and the enchanting
You do remain in all these places Venkata Hill. As we draw close to the Tiruvaimoli
Without revealing yourself. You stay verses, one can see the anxiety of becoming one
In innumerable worlds beyond ours. with the Lord that flames high in the heart of
You are part of me. Will you yet remain Nammalvar. The hundred verses of the last decad,
Beyond my vision?”(6-9-5) particularly, almost pants for the union with the
What a superb monologue that Nammalvar Divine. Not that Nammalvar thinks the Lord is away
carries on in verse after verse! The subject is the from him. He knows that only Narayana remains
same, the anxiety of the devotee to come face to always with all the lives created by Him (10-5-6).
face with the Divine and yet being denied that But, after all, Nammalvar is now covered with flesh
physical joy of seeing the glorious figure of the Lord; which is a thick screen. As he steps forward in his
for instance, as Sri Venkateswara on the Venkata mind towards the Lord, he cries out the names of
Hill. The Tamil verses that come to us seem like the temples where the Lord resides: The verse is
pearls with pure and serene rays emitting a glow. one long cry that spills out of Nammalvar’s aching
Once we get some idea of the meaning and recite heart (10-7-8):
the verses with undivided attention to the image we “O Tirumalinruncholai hill!
are blessed to see in the temple, the Lord is sure to The Milky Ocean, my crown!
come within our vision as our favourite form, the Of Sri Vaikunta where the Lord resides!
ishta devata. Till that happens and we are able to The cool Vaikunta Hill
achieve one-pointed concentration, The Lord will Is my body; your ‘divine illusion’
remain very near and yet far away from our mortal Has given me life, mind, speech,
eyes. And makes me work. But beyond all this,
My Lord is the only companion
Till the Lord and devotee meet, the latter will
For me all through my living days.”
have to remain like the proverbial lady love, love-
lorn, always thinking of her absentee lover. When Message: Our body is impermanent; only the
will her Lord come to gather her in his arms and Lord’s love for us is unflagging. Hence, dedicate
comfort her? Known as ‘bridal mysticism’ this form yourself to Lord Venkateswara.
of addressing one’s guardian Lord is able to project (to be continued)

26 DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI

 GAAVO VISWASYA MAATHARAHA
The Cow is the Mother of the Universe
Smt. J.C. Gnanaprasuna

Executive Officer Dr. K.S. Jawahar Reddy, I.A.S.,

and the Members of the T.T.D. Trust Board lighted
the lamp in the inaugural session.
Speaking on the occasion of the inaugural
session of the Go Maha Sammelan, the T.T.D.
Chairman Sri Y.V. Subba Reddy, said that one
should encourage and support ‘Go Adharita
Farming.’ In addition to the ‘dharmic’ and social
services, the T.T.D. has taken up the campaign for
‘Go Samrakshana’ in a large scale in the recent
times which included ‘Gudiko Go Mata’,
‘NavaneetaSeva’, ‘Go-based Naivedyam to Srivaru’,
production of Panchagavya items. The Chairman
With the grace of Lord Govinda and with the of the T.T.D. called upon all the farmers who gathered
aegis of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams, ‘Go from two Telugu states for the session to go for the
Maha Sammelan’ (Campaign) was held grandly on
30 th& 31st Oct, 2021 at the Mahathi Auditorium,
Tirupati. The philosophical intention of the campaign
is to recognize the significance of cow and its unique
nature. The cow is an auspicious and divine creature
and it should be protected and worshipped. Under
the auspices of Yuga Tulasi Foundation and Sri
Godham Path Meda of Rajasthan, a great number
of ‘Peethadhipatis’, ‘Swamijis’ and Muttadhipatis’ all
over the country attended the ‘Sammelan’ to guide
the way for the protection of the cow. On 30th October
2021, the programme was started with Invocation.
The T.T.D. Chairman Sri Y.V. Subba Reddy, the T.T.D.

NOVEMBER
DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI 31
ancient farming and dairy techniques and take up entered MOU with A.P Govt., ‘Rythu Sadhikara
the task of saving Desi cows as a MahaYagna. The Samstha’ and the Environment Farming Department
motto of the two-day Sammelan is to bring for creating awareness on the advantages of organic
awareness among the farmers on the importance farming and promotion of Desi breed of cows in the
of ‘Go Adharita’ (Natural / organic farming) state. He said that the T.T.D. has set up a ‘Gosala’
agriculture and the utilization of natural farming at Palamner spreading over 450 acres of land and
techniques. He further said that the T.T.D. would rearing nearly 1000 Ongole breed cows and
offer help and encouragement for the abundance bulls. He said that T.T.D. has prepared an action
of products produced by the farmers using these plan to develop and coordinate with 600 Goshalas
techniques. in Telugu states.
On this auspicious occasion, T.T.D. Executive An auspicious ‘Homam’ was performed by the
Officer, Dr. Jawahar Reddy I.A.S., spoke Matha Nirmalananda Yoga Bharathi on the premises
scintillatingly on the significance of ‘Go in the inaugural session. In her Anugraha
AdharithaVyavasayam’ (Natural farming). He said Bhashanam, she calls everyone to take a pledge to
that the T.T.D. has launched several initiatives and save the cow and develop ‘Go Adharita Vyavasayam’
as their primary goal in life and said that if our
Gomatha is saved our Bhumatha will be saved.
Recognizing the cow as our national animal’ is the
only option for us to protect our whole existence
in the world. We should strive for achieving it.
The book ‘Go Mahatyam’ written by Dr Akkella
Vibhishana Sharma was released on this
auspicious occasion. On this day, the Go
Adharita stalls at the premises of the
Auditorium stood as a special
attraction. These stalls were
inaugurated by the T.T.D.
Chairman, Sri Y.V.Subba Reddy,
Farmers hailing from different

32 DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI

 ethical, devotional, and
philosophical campaign.
Among eminent ‘gurus,’ Sri
Grouchy Swami, Sri
DattaSharananandaMaharaj,
UdupiPejawar Mutt Swamiji, Sri
Vishwaprasanna Swamy, Sri
Paripoornanandagiri Swami of
Yerpedu Vyasasrama, Sri
Radhakrishnaji Maharaj of
Rajasthan, Sri Kamalananda
states got their organic products grabbed the special attraction in the Bharati Swamy of Sri
‘Sammelan.’ Sri Vijayaram, the expert in Natural Farming, the SAVE Bhubaneswari Peetham, and Sri
Organization explained the benefits of ‘Go AdharitaVyavasayam’ by Shilabhakti Raghava Swamy of
the PowerPoint presentation. He delivered a lecture on organic farming ISCKON also shared their views
and its techniques to the farmers and many farmers made their speech on ‘Go Samrakshana Campaign’.
on their farming methods. The other expert in organic farming Sri Sri Sri Sri Yadugiri Yatiraj
Vijay Kumar I.A.S., (retired) said that the food issue could be resolved Ramanuja Jeeyar Swamy, Sri
by the organic farming. Paramahamsa Prajnanandji
Maharaj of Odhisa, Sri
VALEDICTORY PROGRAMME
Gopalamani Chiutiyala of
On 31st Oct, 2021 evening, programme started with valedictory Uttarakhand, Srungeri Sarada
function. The Programme was started with ‘Go Dhuli – Go Puja’ Peethadhipathi Sri Sri Vidhu
inaugurated by Sri Sri Sri Sankara Vijayendra Saraswathi Swamiji of Sekhara Bharati Swamy sent his
Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham in the Mahathi Auditorium premises invaluable message through a
attracted the people very much. Sri Swamiji also worshipped
the ‘Kapila’ cow and her calf. The exhibition of the
seven kinds of cow races created a wonderful
experience in the hearts of the people. The
Sadhguru blessed the audience by
saying that the Go Samrakshana
campaign should go continuously
and the Go Samrakshana Yagam
executed by the T.T.D. is a grand
success. The Swamiji of Sringeri
Sharada Peetham Sri Sri Sri
Vidhusekhar Bharati Swamy
urged every Indian to
support this kind of

DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI 33

video supporting the cause of the cow as the
Government to declare cow as the National Animal.
National Animal. ‘Service to cow is service to God’
He also requested all the Chief Ministers in the
said Gorushi Swami Sri Datta Saranananda
country to accept the proposal made by the T.T.D.
Maharaj.
and constitute a law to declare cow as our National
The protection of cow is the protection of the Animal. Sri Godham Mahathirth Path Meda of
Vedas. Everyone should do service to the cow. Rajasthan,Yadugiri Yati Raja ‘Muttadhipathi’ Sri Sri
Pejavar Muttadhipathi Sri Viswa Prasanna Thirtha Sri Yadagiri Yathiraja Narayana Ramanuja Jeeyar
Swamiji of Udipi Mutt also spoke about the Swamiji, Sri Paramahamsa Pagjnanandaji Maharaj
greatness of the cow. Sri Paripurnanandagiri of Orissa, and Sri Gopala Maninoutiyal of
Swamy of Vyasa Ashramam Eerpedu in his Uttarakhand, made their wonderful speeches on the
anugraha bhashanam said that, ‘Sammelan’ is a event.
good guidance for our nation. Protection of cow is
The Chairman of the T.T.D. and the Executive
the responsibility of every one. Sri Radhakrishnaji
Officer unveiled a CD on the significance of cow
of Rajasthan said that the worship of the cow is
penned by Sri Jonnavittula Ramalingeswar Rao and
equal to the worship done to the three crores of
sung by Smt. M.M. Srilekha. Sri B. Karunakar
deities. Cow is the Mother of the universe. Sri
Reddy, M.L.A, Tirupati said that a resolution should
Bhuvaneswari Pithadhipati Sri Srilabhakti Raghava
be passed and sent to the UNO that Go-based
Swamy said that the protection of the cow is the
protection of the country. Gomata is called
Viswamata. Yoga guru and the
Chief of Patanjali
Peetham, Sri Baba
Ramdev requested
the Central

34 DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI

organic farming is the only solution to the problem
of food scarcity in the world.
During the two-day Gosammelan programme,
the participants witnessed thought-provoking and
encouraging instances regarding ‘Go Adharita
Vyavasayam’ expressed by many experienced, and
aspiring natural farmers with their updated and lively
examples. On this occasion, T.T.D. Trust Board
Members, Sri Shiva Kumar, Sri Yuga Tulasi
Foundation Chairman, Smt. Sada Bhargavi, I.A.S.,
and Sri V.Veerabrahmam, I.A.S., the Joint Executive
Officers of the T.T.D. Tirupati and Sri GopinathJetti,
I.P.S., CV&SO and other T.T.D. higher officials
participated in the mega event. Dr. Harnath Reddy,
the Director of SV Goshala given the vote of thanks
to all the participants.
Let us wish for the success of the T.T.D. in its
relentless endeavour to identify cow as National
Animal as it stands as a symbol and an embodiment
of innumerable deities and let us pray to the lotus
feet of Lord Govinda to achieve national status to
our sacred cow at an early date.
SALUTATIONS TO THE MOTHER COW

DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI 35

 S ri Vedanta Desika, the great of Goda Devi and the
Srivaishnava Acharya composed the amazing measureless devotion
Goda Stuthi when he had the ecstatic darshan of of Vedanta Desika
Sri Goda Devi (also known as Sri Andal) at towards her.
Srivilliputhur. He considers Goda Devi as the
It is believed
supreme manifestation of boundless mercy and
that Vedanta Desika
compassion and conveys his unconditional
composed the
surrender at her lotus feet. He is highly impressed
GodaStuthi in an
with the sacred works of Goda Devi consisting
ecstatic manner at
of 173 pasurams in terms of Tiruppavai,
Srivilliputtur when he
Nacchiyar Tirumozhi. He is very much fascinated
had the darshan of the
by the matchless prema bhakti of Goda Devi due
utsava deity of Goda
to which the Lord lovingly accepts the garland
Devi during vaikasi
worn by her. Her madhurya bhava is held in high
vasanthotsava.
esteem by him. Goda Stuthi which is hailed as a
Before the deity
stotrakavya has twenty-nine Slokas which
reached the vasanta
present the various dimensions of the greatness
mandapam of Sri Venkateswara, he completed the
amazing garland of lyrics on Goda Devi. Even today
we find the reverential recitation of Goda Stuthi by
the descendants of Periyalwar during the festival of
vasanthotsava.

Let us see how Vedanta Desika has beautifully

expressed the glories of Goda Devi in his poetic
masterpiece.

Goda Devi is eulogized as the epitome of the

patience of Bhu Devi with the boundless
compassion of Lakshmi. She is the wish-yielding
creeper from the devotional family of Vishnuchitta
embracing Lord Ranganatha. Vedanta Desika

36 DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI

stresses that he takes refuge only in Goda Devi. of Lord Ranganatha who flies on the bird Garuda
Though even the Vedas can never fully explain her and sleeps on the snake Adisesha. Attracted by the
exalted glories, thereby attempting to silence him, divine scent of the garland of Goda Devi, the bees
still Vedanta Desika attempts to speak out because from the Vaijayanti garland of the Supreme rest on
of her exalted auspicious qualities. He invokes the it and appear like an umbrella made of peacock
grace of Goda Devi to bestow on him the power to feathers. Even the enchanting Vaijayanti with all its
compose his garland of songs which will be sweet fragrant scent and softness comes nowhere near
like nectar to the ears of the Supreme Lord. Just the endearing garland of Goda Devi which has
like the sacred river Yamuna has become famous adorned the crown of the Supreme.
because of its association with Lord Krishna, Goda Vedanta Desika in his engrossing mood of
Devi’s devotional literary works attain greatness due devotion towards Goda Devi visualizes that the bees
to their association with the Supreme Lord. in her garland make buzzing sound appropriate for
The Lord is deeply bound by the garland her svayamvara. Though the Supreme Lord has a
presented to Him by Goda Devi after wearing it. navel with Lotus which has created many universes
Even wrong-doers get redeemed because of her with his chest adorned by the sandalwood of the
grace. She is learning personified with full of Satvik bosoms of Lakshmi and with feet grown so sweet
qualities. When Valmiki Rishi who emanated from scented by Vedic scriptures yet he has so gracefully
the ant-hill on the earth has become the emperor of and lovingly taken the garland of Goda Devi and
Poetry, there is no wonder why her nectar like decorates his crown with it. By accepting the garland
compositions from her lotus face are so sweeter scented by her tresses Lord Ranganatha has
beyond any degree of comparison. Her family definitely won the right of being crowned as the
background is one which is engrossed in the Supreme Lord of all auspiciousness. Though the
madhurya bhakti of the Supreme. She is adored as Vedas glorify the Lord as the source of all scents,
the loving sister of Lakshmi. Her beloved father who He very much enjoys ecstatic bliss in wearing the
composed hundreds of divine verses hailing the garlands scented by the curly tresses of Goda Devi.
Supreme attained the status of Periyalwar (eldest As manifestation of mother Earth Goda Devi
among all alwars) only because of Goda Devi and Lord Ranganatha exchange the garlands.
manifesting as his beloved daughter. Because of Rejoicing at this, many people expatiate the
the great fortune of her birth at Srivilliputhur, the greatness of both of them which fill the three worlds
southern direction itself has gained immense glory with all auspiciousness. The hue of Goda Devi that
by attracting the lotus-eyes of Lord Ranganatha is green like the leaf of the dhruva grass along with
towards it. The great river Godavari purifying the Lakshmi’s complexion which is golden like
world is considered sacred because it bears the Gorochana combine to give the Supreme Lord the
sacred name of Goda. Even holy rivers like Ganga shade of the neck of the peacock. In the days of the
come to her for their own purification. yonder emperors like Manu worshipped the
Though Goda Devi is so beautiful and youthful Supreme accompanied by Lakshmi and Bhu Devi
she is teased by her friends for having voluntarily with Vedic flowers and enjoyed powers for a very
chosen as her groom an ancient purusha in the form long period of time. Even when Lakshmi

DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI 37

recommends those evil persons to feet of Goda Devi who is always ready to pardon, redeem and
be redeemed and reformed, Lord reform even the worst sinners. The Supreme Lord mesmerized
Ranganatha will not lend his ears by the enchanting beauty and ecstatic love of Goda Devi towards
unless Goda Devi is also with him on him is left with no option but to simply do what Goda Devi says.
His side. In the sheer magnetic look
Thus as the manifestation of mother earth (Bhu Devi) Goda
of Goda Devi the Lord rejoices and
Devi is patience personified and by taking refuge in her one can
loses His freedom and in the process
escape from the clutches of Samsara and get the eternal service
even the great offenders are forgiven
of the Supreme Lord at Paramapada.
and uplifted. Goda Devi, the nectar
which cools down the blistering heat
Think it over...
of life is the only hope to get rid of the
poison of Samsara. Though a person Q7. Who composed Goda Stuthi?
does many wrong things mother
Goda Devi protects him just like a Answer in Page No. 44
baby which bites its mother’s breast,
but is protected by its mother while
breast-feeding. Goda Devi is blue like SOLUTION TO PUZZLE
sapphire with red lotus in her hand 1 2 3 4 5 6
and is bent by the weight of her P R A D Y U M N A A
bosom. By her boundless
I U E I F L
unconditional love, the beloved
daughter of Vishnuchitta (Periyalwar) 7 8
P A D M A U N T I L
she has delighted the Supreme with
her garland and resides permanently
P I R P E O
in the hearts of her devotees. In the
last twenty-ninth Sloka Vedanta 9 10 11 12
A M B A S O R R O W
Desika presents the fruit of reciting
his GodaStuthi. Accordingly anyone I
L L A D
who lovingly recites the auspicious
14
prayer to GodaDevi which has 13
A G E D R P O O R
bloomed in the deep devotion of
Vedanta Desika, will get the eternal D I I U
service (kainkarya) at the lotus feet
15 16 17
of Lord Ranganatha. He is also
A T H R I A D O R E
bestowed with the boundless grace
of the Supreme Lord.
D R
The essence of Goda Stuthi is 18 19
Vedanta Desika’s clarion call to S O U R I D H A R A
surrender unconditionally at the lotus

38 DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI

 S ri Chinthalarayaswamy temple or Sri are other inscriptions belonging to the 16th and 17th
Chinthala Venkataramana temple is situated centuries.
at Tadipatri, a town in Anantapur district of Andhra
Builder of the temple : The temple was built by
Pradesh. The temple is dedicated to
Pemmasani Yerra Thimma Nayudu II of
Lord Venkateswara, who is referred to as Chinthala
Venkataramana. the Pemmasani Nayaks (son of Thimma Nayudu),
a subordinate of Sri Krishnadeva Rayalu during the
Sthalapurana : According to a legend, it is said that
reign of the Vijayanagara Empire in the 16th century.
once a huge noise burst out from a tamarind tree
Thimma Nayudu appointed two archakas and a chief
and when the villagers gathered to find out the
priest and he gifted lands to the temple. Originally
source of the noise, they saw an idol of Lord Vishnu,
the temple was called Chinthala Tiruvengala Natha
which had erupted from the tamarind tree. Later that
Swamy Temple. Spread across five acres of land,
night, Lord Vishnu appeared in the dream of Thimma
Nayudu, the ruler of the region, and instructed him this temple was built according to the Silpa Sastras.
to build a temple by placing the idol found inside the Different Mandapas : The carvings of episodes of
tamarind tree. The temple was named after the the Ramayana, the Mahabharata and the
tamarind tree, as 'Chintha' in Telugu means Bhagavatha are seen around the Garbha Griha,
'Tamarind'. Chinthala in Telugu means that, this deity Ranga Mandapa, Mukha Mandapa, Main Gopura and
will remove worries. the Prakaras. The Mukha Mandapa has 40 pillars in
Inscriptions : The earliest inscription in the temple the Vijayanagara style. Beyond the Mukha Mandapa
is dated 1551 and registers gifts to the temple. There is a Ranga Mandapa, which has scenes of the

DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI 39

Ramayana and rare sculptures of the Vishnu Garbha Griha : The presiding deity of the temple
avatars or incarnations. in the Garbha Griha is 10 feet tall idol of Lord
Venkateswara. It is very beautiful and a classic
Temple Complex : There are other temples inside
example of masterpiece of the Vijayanagara
the complex, one dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi
architecture. Lord Venkateswara is in a standing
worshipped as Anandavalli Thayar,
position and is holding the Sankha (conch) and
Lakshminarayana, Varaha and the other to Lord
Chakra (Discus) in the upper left and right hands.
Anjaneya. There is a shrine for Sri
The lower right hand is in abhaya hasta (reassuring
RamanujaAcharya, the founder of Vishishta Advaitha
the devotees) and the lower left is in kati hasta
philosophy.
(resting on the waist). The ceiling in the main temple
Three Entrances : The temple has three entrances
is the octagonal shaped flower.
– one each on the North, South and East. On the
The Mukha Mandapa and the Ranga
East, is the Dhwaja Stambham. The sculptures of
Mandapa are full of images and stories from the
the river goddesses – the Ganga and the Yamuna
Mahabharatha, the Ramayana and the Bhagavatha,
are prominently displayed on either side of the
all in proper sequence of events. It is certainly one
entrance. The rajagopuram faces the east and is a
of the highlights of this temple as each pillar tells
solid structure, built using stone and brick. The stone
beautiful stories through its intricate carvings. One
part contains figures of Vidyadharas, Apsaras and
of the rare sculptures in the Ranga Mandapa is the
Avatars, Elephants, Horses and parrots arranged
Matsya (fish) incarnation of Vishnu killing the demon
in different levels.
Hayagreeva.
Important festivals in the temple : The important
Every inch of the exterior walls of the temple
festivals held in this temple are Diwali, Sri Rama
are carved and each carving tells us a lot about our
Navami and Brahmotsavam that falls in the month
gods and our puranas. The temple is famous for
of October. A mighty temple gopuram greets the
sculpture and is classified as one of the Monuments
visitors and the devotees. Right after it is the
of National Importance by the Archaeological Survey
Dhwajasthamba and then comes the Garuda
of India.
mandapa. Right in front of the Garuda mandapa is
the large Mukha Mandapa followed by the Ranga The temple occupies a pride of place in the
Mandapa and the Garbha Griha. history of Indian art and architecture. It is the duty of
every Indian to preserve and protect it for the sake
of the future generations.

Think it over...

Q8. Name the empire mentioned in this

temple article

Answer in Page No. 44

40 DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI

(Continued from the previous issue) a. The Lord’s Makuta or crown which is more than
20 inches high, is richly adorned with flowing locks
If ever any proof is required that temples are
of hair or Jata Juta with some of the locks of curly
live institutions, the Lord at Tirumala is a verifiable
hair resting on the shoulders.
truth.
b. The arms have armlets with finger like
ls the idol of the Lord a Vaishnavite or Saivite
projections which appear to be Nagabhushanam
one
and a Naga is depicted as coiled around the Lord’s
There has been a persistent controversy right arm.
going on, whether the image of the Lord at
c. The puja is done in the temple with bilva leaves
Tirumala is a manifestation of Vishnu or Siva.
which are used only in the archana to Lord Siva.
There is also a view that it represents Subramanya
and another extreme view that the idol represents d. There is a crescent mark on the head of the Lord
Shakti. These are questions which time and again which also indicates that the idol is that of Lord
agitate the minds of devotees and pilgrims who Siva.
intensely believe in the sanctity of this great e. The Lord is in the centre of the Garbha griha,
temple. It is therefore necessary that this should and therefore it is a Saivite murti.
be examined in detail and settled once and for all.
f. A crystal Lingam is present in the Tirumala temple
An examination whether the idol of the Lord is which proves that the temple was in ancient days
a Saivite idol. a Saivite one and later converted to Vaishnava
In support of the school that the image of worship after the reforms in the temple like
the Lord is that of Siva, the following reasons are nityarchana, etc, by Sri Ramanuja.
generally adduced. The above views are totally untenable.
In the first place it is incorrect to state that
the Lord’s makuta has a jatajuta which resembles
that of the image of Lord Siva. The main
characteristics of the Dhruva Bera of Sri
Venkateswara are as follows:
i. Sri Devi on the right breast seated on the Sri
Vatsa.

DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI 41

ii. The scars on the shoulders. Another important feature of the idol is the
iii. Free and easy posture of the two upper hands pralambasutra and the katisutra, the former the
into which Sankham and Chakram have sacred thread or Yagnopavitam and the latter the
subsequently been placed. string round the loin called in Telugu, ‘molatadu.’
They characterise Sri Vishnu alone.
iv. The varada posture of the lower right hand and
the Katyavalambita posture i.e., holding the hand That the idol is undoubtedly that of Vishnu and
inner to the left of him of the lower left hand. not of Siva can be inferred from the following:

It must be admitted that the varada posture a. The Kaustubha hanging centrally in the
i.e., the palm and the fingers pointing downwards is Chest is a characteristic of Sri Vishnu. This is also
not associated with any of the agama forms of described in the ancient Tamil classic
stanakamurti. As already explained above, the idol Silappadhikaram, and this is as old as the early
of the Lord is Svayambhu or self-maintaining or if eras.
any rational interpretation of the agama texts is to b. According to the agamic rules a Kautuka
be given, the idol must have been made at a time
bera should be an exact representation of the
when the agamic texts were not codified and hence
Dhruva Bera. A close examination of the Kautuka
this must be one of the most ancient idols of the
Bera of Tirumala will establish that it is undoubtedly
Country. The palm and the fingers of the idol are
that of Lord Vishnu only.
open and point downwards to the right foot
significantly reminding a devotee of the Supreme c. Factually there is nothing like a
grace of the Lord to grant all boons to the Nagabharanam on the form of the idol of
worshippers who seek refuge at the feet of the Lord. Dhruvamurti. The gold ornament or plating worn
This seems to have a bearing on the boon granted on the arm is a subsequent present made by
unasked to Mahabali by the Lord. Nammalvar makes devotees. Naga or adisesha is invariably associated
a reference to this episode. Sri Alavandar, the great with Vishnu and the mantrapushpam which is daily
Vaishnava saint in his stotraratna also praises the recited in the temple makes reference to this.
Lord and prays that the Lord’s feet should be placed
d. There is also factually no jata on the head
on his head. In the Trivikrama pose of Lord Vishnu,
of the idol of the murti of the Lord. There is also no
he points to his right foot, to ask Bali as to what he
Srichakram or yantra on the kiritam of the Idol.
has to offer, after all the entire universe had been
measured up by the Lord in two steps. At that stage, e. Even Acharya purushas do not enjoy the
Mahabali who had nothing else to offer offered his privilege of closely inspecting the Druva Bera. So
head, and Trivikrama bestowed on Mahabali the far as one could observe the idol from Kulasekhara
highest boon which a human soul could ask or padi to which only entrance is given to a devotee,
aspire for viz., absorption into the holy feet of the and based on the evidence of the most observant
Lord. This seems to be the explanation of the archakas over a number of years, it can be factually
Varada posture of the idol at the time when the ascertained that there is no serpant anywhere in
agamic texts were not codified. the garbha griha, not to speak of its total absence
The position in the fingers and specially that of the body of the d eity. Somehow a
of the thumb of the left hand in the hip and the misrepresentation has been created for long that
thigh suggests that the Kodanda bow of Srirama this exists on the body of the idol, and this
which was deemed to have passed inside of the misrepresentation still persists though factually it
thumb should be maintained in a steady position. is incorrect and inaccurate.

42 DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI

 f. The so called simhalalata is only an ordinary right bosom above the Srivatsam. The markings of
ornamentation jewel including those which cover Srivatsam depend on the rupam or form of the
the crucial parts of the parts of the idols of the Lord particular murti and there is no fixed rule about it.
and his consort. What exists on the idol is only a Broadly speaking Srivatsam represents the Mula
rough delineation which can by no account be prakriti and Lakshmi, the Abhishtana Devata, and
associated with the face of a lion. This kind of the position of Lakshmi on the idol of the Lord closely
ornamentation can be seen on many idols. follows this.

g. The nagabharana is not an ornament (k) So far as one could see there is no crystal
integral with the body of the Lord and it connotes Lingam anywhere in the Tirumala temple.
nothing in particular. The naga is one of the nityas Sometimes Sri Vidyaranya is said to have
ever present with Vishnu. mentioned this. Sri Vidyaranya was a contemporary
of Vedanta Desika who lived about 14th Century
h. Bilva leaf with which puja is done is not
A.D. The temple has nearly 600 years of history of
exclusive to Saivite worship alone. It can be used
recorded inscriptions before that date and nowhere
as one of the eight punya pushpas even in the
has a crystal Lingam been mentioned.
worship of Lord Vishnu. The following authorities
prove the fact:- (l) About the association of Kapila, which is
represented by the Kapileswara temple situated at
(i) Padmasamhita 12th Adhyaya (Charyapada) the foot of the Hills, also, no significance need be
(ii) Brigu Samhita attached since Kapila, Bhrigu, Ganesa, Durga, Siva
and Brahma are all upadevatas in a Vaishnava
Both the agamas recommend the use of the
temple according the Vaishnava agamas.
bilva in the worship of Vishnu. Hence there is no
special significance about the bilva leaf being used (m) The outlet from the Gomukham, the height
in the worship leading to an inference that the idol of the garbha griha etc., are all sometimes
at any time was that of Lord Siva. On the other hand mentioned as proofs of its being a saivite temple.
the fact that it is not used along with tulasi leaves These are all based on misconceptions as the
so sacred to Vaishnava worship is a pointer that architecture of the temple has evolved through many
the bilva is used along with eight punya pushpas centuries.
acceptable to Lord Vishnu. Actually there is an outlet on the gomukha of
(i) The Agamic rules for the installation of the garbha griha and for various reasons it has not
stanaka asina or sayanamurti of Vishnu clearly lay been working. The height of the garbha griha is a
down that the Dhruva bera should occupy the daivic distinct and different proportion of the height of the
seat. The image of the Lord is precisely in this seat. murti and this rule has been closely observed in
There is thus no force in saying that because the this case. Similarly the height of the dhruva bera
Lord is in the centre of the Garbha Griha it should pitha is consistently proportionate to the bhuvanga
or height of the entrance.
be a saivite one.
It can therefore be conclusively stated that the
(j) The place of Yogalakshmi and Sri Vatsam
idol of the Lord can by no standards be mistaken
on the idol of the Lord follow the exact rules given in
for that of Lord Siva, either now or at any earlier
Bhrigu Samhita, Lakshmi Kalpam, according to
time.
which Lakshmi should be in the upper portion of the (to be continued)

DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI 43

 M an has to make his life it. He may earn sufficiently for his needs. But if he misuses or
wastes what he has earned, the very purpose of earning is
meaningful. This can be done only
through knowledge. Man acquires defeated. He cannot afford to waste what he has earned. Every
knowledge through learning. Mere small grain, he has to keep very carefully. While learning he should
learning is of no value unless there is not waste time because time is in fact life. He is advised to take
matching action. Action is also care of every grain (Kana) earned. And in the same way he has to
necessary for his living with some learn every second (Kshana). A sloka in Hithopadesha advises
comfort. He has to earn for his living. man not to waste even a second while learning. Similarly he should
Therefore he has to learn and earn be careful about every small grain of what he has earned. If he
as long as he lives. Otherwise he will has neglected to manage time by wasting and fails to take care of
become a burden to the society. what he has earned he will come to misery. The sloka is as follows:
Kshanashahkansashchaiva vidya amarthanchasadhayeth
Learning is a lifelong work. One
Kshanenastekutho vidya kanenashtekuthodhanam
has to learn what is already in
existence through books and men of The meaning of the sloka is that if man wastes time however
knowledge. What is happening right small it may be, he fails to learn. There is no 'Vidya'. He will never
now in the present is also necessary earn enough if he wastes his money even in small quantity. There
for him to keep himself informed and is no 'Dhanam'.
alert. He has the responsibility to earn
his daily food as well. Therefore Think it over...
learning and earning have to go on as
Q9. Man acquires knowledge through....
long as he lives.
Learning and earning Answer in Page No. 44
Man’s life is limited. Time is
barely enough for his learning and
W
O
earning. He has to make the best of N RS
K E
S SW
U
ET AN
L E
TH 1. Annamacharya 7. Vedanta Desikan
2. Lord Srinivasa 8. Vijayanagara Empire
3. Alarmelmanga 9. Learning
4. Sree Suktam 10. Vemana, Kabir
5. Lakshmi vrata 11. Vaitheeswaran temple
6. Goda Devi 12. Lord Vishnu

44 DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI

 Part - 8

Tirumalai Ozhugu
History of Rituals and Customs in Tirumala
Original in Tamil by- Sri K. Balasundar Nayakar
Excerpts Translated into English by- Dr. M. Varadarajan

(continued from the September issue)

Veera Narasimha Deva's Service desired by him. Happily, he decided

to construct a Gopuram and
Once Veera Narasimha Deva, a
entrusted the work to suitable hands
Gajapathi (Gajapathi appears to be a
providing all the funds needed. Then
title given to Kings) who was on a Tirta
he proceeded to Sethu by visiting
Yatra to Southern part to have darsan
various places like Varanasi,
of Sethu. In the middle, he heard about
Srirangam, Kanchi and Sethu
the greatness of Sri Venkatachala
Darsanam. Again, he reached
Vaibhavam. He camped in the Hills,
Tirumala and was happy to see the
had a bath in Swami Pushkarini and
construction work going on
worshipped Varaha Perumal and
satisfactorily. He also donated gifts
Narasimha Perumal (Venkataththari)
to the artisans and others and
and in the sevakrama worshipped
stayed in Tirumala for some days.
Tiruvenkatavan. He observed the
various regulations like fasting in A serpent
Kshetra. He heard the sayings 'kalow One night, he had a dream
Venkatanarayana' and became deeply wherein a serpent appeared before
devoted to Tiruvenkatamudayan. He him and said that “This Tirumala is
was anxious to do some enduring my body and constructing a
service to the Sannidhi and enquired Gopuram with a huge weight makes
the learned people there. They said considerable strain for me and there
that in Agama Sastra, kirita is superior is no remedy to relieve from this
among jewels, Vimana among strain except to represent to the
Gopurams, Chariot among vahanas Lord”. While informing this, the
and diamond among gemstones. serpent twisted itself around the
They informed him to do whatever Vaikunta Hasta (the right hand) of

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- 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI
- 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI
45 45
Tiruvenkatamudayan in the temple. Next day Purna, Vamana Purana and Ashtothara Sathanama
morning, the king narrated the dream to the learned Adhyaya in Varaha Purana. It is mentioned that on
pundits and requested them to guide further in this the western bank of Swami Pushkarini, Azhagiya
matter. They informed that Rishis in Varaha, Singar emerged in Tirumala for the sake of Rudra.
Vamana and other Puranas say that this Hill is Since then, daily Tiruvaradhanam for Azhagiya
Seshachalam. Adisesha does not accept a heavy Singar is being held according to Vaikhanasa
gopuram being constructed on the hill, as the weight Agama. At one time, the Saivites claimed that they
is too much to bear and instructed the king not to establish a shrine for Siva near Azhagiya Singar as
proceed further in the construction. Then the King
the latter was worshipped with great devotion by
immediately deferred the half-way construction and
Siva. The Vaishnavites and priests approached the
settled himself in the thought. He also felt that
King and represented that this Kreedachalam
Tiruvenkatamudayan desired that level of kainkarya
(Tirumala Hill) was brought from Sri Vaikuntam as
only. He felt that he committed apachara to Adisesha.
clearly stated in Varaha, Vamana, Markandeya and
To wipe out this sin, he made a Nagabharana and
Brahmanda Puranas. Hence, it is improper to
requested the priests to adorn this to
Tiruvenkatamudayan. establish other gods like Siva in this place. They
convinced the King in this matter and stopped the
Sri Ramanuja’s thought on Nagabharana
efforts of the Saivites. The Vaishnavites discussed
At that time the priests were doubtful how to the matter among themselves. They thought that
beautify this jewel to the Lord. Then, this deity is without Lakshmi and His severity should
Tiruvenkatamudayan spoke through a devotee as shine unabated. But, he is also the cause for trouble
follows: “According to Brahma Purana, there was from Saivites. So, we cannot continue to perform
a dispute between Vayu and Sesha. I was partial to pujas regularly in this Kali age. Thus, they decided
Vayu. This resulted in Sesha being very much to stop all pujas to this deity so that the question of
aggrieved. He did penance in this mountain on the holiness will not arise.
bank of Naga Theertha which resulted in my (Lord)
coming down here and have full love of Adisesha. Having heard this, Sri Ramanuja thought that
Like a father who has caused grief to his own son, I this Narasimha is well-spoken in reputed Puranas
will bear Adisesha in my (Lord’s) hand”. On hearing and Alwar also mentioned in his Prabandham
this command, the priests set the jewel on Vaikunta (Tirumangai Alwar – Periya Tirumozhi 7-3-5). If we
Hasta (right arm). Since the time of Veera stop nitya pujas to this deity who is stationed in a
Narasimha Deva, the Lord has been wearing one separate temple, there will be hindrance in the long
Nagabharana on the right hand till the visit of Sri term development of this place. So, he decided to
Ramanuja. Having worshipped the Lord with one consecrate Narasimha within the temple of
Nagabharana on the right arm, Sri Ramanuja Tiruvenkatamudayan to the North East of Ananda
thought that as per the dream of the King , he made Vimana and establish Him facing the Vimana. Also
another Nagabharana and adorned to the Lord with His severity would decline slowly without any harm
a view to feasting both the eyes and heart for the to this place. If He is being worshipped as mentioned
devotees. in Sastra, there will be no trouble from opponents.
Consecration of Lord Narasimha He ordered that daily tiruvaradhana as stated in
Agamas is be done to this Narasimha also.
The history of Lord Narasimha is recorded in
Swarnamukhi Mahatmyam portion of Skanda (to be continued)

46 DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI

(Continued from the previous issue) 18

Sri Jagannadha Dasa, a notable

‘haridasa’ and a saint-poet, is a great
devotee of Lord Srinivasa. He is an
accomplished scholar in all six
‘Shastras.’ He has written many ‘kritis’
in both Sanskrit and Kannada using
various techniques. From the heads
of the ‘Pithams’ to the common folk,
he has won scintillating fame. He was
a great writer in ‘padams’ and
‘suladulu’ (poems). His literary
contribution namely
‘Harikathamruthasaram’ is
magnificent, popular and praise-
worthy. It is a work of high standard.
He is the abode of such marvellous
works. His devotional compositions
promote magnificent spiritual values
in the life of a devotee. He was
blessed by Lord Raghavendra
Swamy. As per the suggestion of Sri
Vijaya Dasa, who was a great erudite
person, he has taken the period of
forty years life span from Sri Gopala
Dasa as charity. He has got love and
affection from both Sri Vijaya Dasa
and Sri Gopala Dasa. By the grace of
Lord Venkateswara, who is the
embodiment of Lord Dhanvantari, he
was revived from his fatality by the
Lord and he took ‘prasadam’ directly
from Him. He has got reception from
‘Nadabrahma’. He had the grace of
Lord Panduranga and goddess
Rukmini Devi. He protected people
and provided consolation to their
hearts. He visited Tirumala and had
the grand ‘darshan’ of Lord Srinivasa
many times. In his ‘keerthanas,’ Sri
Jagannadha Dasa has eulogized the
philosophy of piety towards Lord
Srinivasa. The description of

DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI 47

‘Vaikunta,’ ‘Swamy Pushkarini’ and Lord Varaha You need not worry. Though your family is full of
Swamy was done in a glorious manner. His demons, they will become My devotees. They get
‘keerthanas’ have eulogized the glory of Lord My grace. King Ravana, his brothers Kumbhakarna
Srinivasa in the ‘Puranas.’ The and Vibhishana are My true devotees.’
‘Harikathamruthasaaram’, his magnum opus, is the There are nine ‘thirthas.’ They are Srimad
best example for revealing the infinite glory of the Varaha, Dhanapa, Galva, and Markandeya, Agni
Lord. Mochani, Rumamohani and others. It is elaborately
There was a great devotee called Deva said that the holy bath in the ‘Pushkarini’, the grand
‘darshan’ of Lord Srinivasa and ‘Srivari Prasadam’
Sarma in the Venkatachalamahatmyam, the integral
are very difficult to possess them without proper
part of Aditya Purana. For the sake of his livelihood,
devotion. Lord Bhuvaraha Swamy, the main resident
Deva Sarma prayed to the Lord in many ways
near the ‘Pushkarini,’ has turned His face towards
devoutly. He was granted many boons by the Lord.
the north. Sri Jagannadha Dasa feels that Sri
Those who do not serve the Lord are called mean Bhuvaraha Swamy’s posture may be for looking at
creatures by their nature. Lord Srinivasa is unique Lord Srinivasa who is watching His two consorts
in granting His sublime grace to the devotees. The with grace while sitting on the mounts during all kinds
people who follow Him strictly can accept this truth. of His ‘utsavas.’ Lord Bhuvaraha Swamy may be
Drona, Bhishma, and Krupa were blessed by Him. looking at the charm of the goddess Dharani Devi
Lord Srinivasa offered ‘Wheel’ and ‘Conch’ to the who is on His left side. The poet’s imagination is
emperor Tondaman for his intense devotion. wonderful.
Likewise the potter Bhima also got the Lord’s grace Sri Jagannadha Dasa says that the holy water
by the humble offering of his clay jewels to the Lord at the lotus feet of the Lord is auspicious to the entire
with pure devotion. Lord Srinivasa also blessed the world. Being the Supreme Deity, He is eulogized by
king Akasaraju by marrying his daughter even the Vedas. All deities like Goddess Lakshmi, Lord
though the king’s ‘gopala’ had given the Lord a great Rudra, Lord Indra and others are His worshippers.
blow to His head. In Markandeya Purana, the Venkatachala
The ‘kritis’ of Sri Jagannadha Dasa describe mahatmyam describes a legend regarding a poor
Brahmin called Jara. He came to Tirumala. Lord
the Lord’s grandeur are innumerable. There is a
Srinivasa in the guise of a prince dipped the poor
‘keertana’ which is in nine slokas describes ‘Swami
Brahmin him in the holy waters of ‘Kumaradhara
Pushkarini.’ The famous ‘keerthana’ starts with ‘Sri
Thirtha’ and granted him youth along with abundant
Venkata Sailadhipa Namo…’ includes a dialogue
affluence. Sri Akasaraju prayed to the Lord at
between the king Dilipa and the sage Durvasa midnight. The Lord blessed him. The potter Bhima
regarding the greatness of the ‘Pushkarini.’ Hiding and the emperor Tondaman were also blessed by
in the bushes of the hills of Tirumala, Goddess Him. Sri Jagannadha Dasa strongly believes that
Saraswathi did her penance to get excellence Lord Srinivasa would drive away all kinds of
among all the rivers. The sage Pulasthya got angry diseases and evil births of His devotees. His
and cursed the goddess Saraswathi. She also conviction is that the Lord is not accessible to the
cursed the sage that his clan would deliver demons. wicked and the evil minds. The Lord of the Seven
Lord Srinivasa addresses both of them with love Hills protects ‘sanatana dharma’ and grants
and affection. He said: ‘Oh! Saraswathi! You cannot meaningful life to His devotees. May our Lord
be identified as great among the rivers but You are Srinivasa grant us peace, prosperity and eternal
superior to all the lakes in the world. You will become bliss!
Swami Pushkarini’. He said to the sage: ‘O! Sage! (to be continued)

48 DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI

 I t is interesting to note that the poet saints
of India who composed songs and poems in
different parts of the country have similar thoughts
and concerns to propagate. While upholding
reformatory spirit and imparting practical wisdom
through popular axioms that eventually became part
of popular imagination and everyday sayings, they
ushered in modern temperament. Their tone varied
from one of chastisement, censure, castigation,
condemnation of evil practices and superstitions to
making appeals to uphold and cherish humanistic
values. They all provided precepts for peaceful co-
existence, healthy human relations marked by
tolerance and fortitude. They all advised to shun
violence for the benefit of humanity. On closer
examination, it becomes clear that the issues they
talked about have contemporary relevance for us.
They are like visionaries who imbibed the essence
of bharateeyata, the idea of India, and passed it on
to the next generations. Vemana says:

Champa dagina yatti shatrudu thana cheta

Jikkeneni keedu seyaradu conflict and confrontation have taught humanity bitter
Posaga melu chesi pommanute chavu! lessons in violence. Indian culture always
Vishwadhabhirama vinura Vema! emphasized the importance of non-violence by
(Poem 23. Page 4. Vemana Padyalu. C.P. enunciating ‘Ahimso parama dharmaha!’ in its epics
Brown Collection of 1839. Editor: Bangore. Tirupathi: and puranas. King Ashoka turning from a conqueror
TTD, 1992.) of lands to a propagator of peace gives a practical
demonstration of this cherished tradition. The option
English translation:
of peace always needs be given a chance for
Don’t think of avenging your bitter enemy humanity to progress.
Even if caught. No harm needs to be done.
One generous gesture is enough to let him go and die. A noble gesture of forgiveness may result in
Vema! the one endeared to the Creator, listen! peaceful co-existence whereas conflict and
Kabir, the 16th century saint poet of North punishment could only foment a sense of hurt. Thus,
India, has expressed a similar view in his doha: it is a virtue if put into practice, humanity will reap
its immense benefits. The above axioms of Vemana
Jothoko kante buvai, thahi boyi tu pul !
and Kabir underline the essence of all religions i. e.,
Tohi pultho pul hai, wahko haitirasool !!
forgiveness.
(You felicitate the one who harmed you with
flowers. Those appear as flowers to you, but he
feels the pinch of a trishul!) Think it over...
These poet-saints lived in different centuries
Q10. Name the two poets mentioned in
but their utterances have the same message of
this article
peaceful means of living. Instead of conflict, means
of compromise needs to be explored. Confrontation Answer in Page No. 44
ought to be replaced by conciliatory methods. This
is all the more relevant to the present age. Because

DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI 49

The Nine Celestial Influencers – IV influence on skills of hands, handling of equipment;
even anger and strength: the way one uses energy
at different levels, including mentally, to analyse
situations.
Muthuswami Dikshitar’s kriti in Suruti ragam
extols Angaraka - I take refuge in Angaraka, the
Mandara tree for humble devotees.
Presiding deity of Tuesday and the son of
earth, Bhumikumara. Dikshitar says that he is
friendly with the sun, moon and Jupiter; he also
promotes brotherhood (bhratrukarakam). And,

A ngaraka means the red-hued in Sanskrit,

deenarakshaka pujitam vaidyanatha kshetram, this
deity is worshipped in 'Vaitheeswarankoil'.
and refers to the planet Mars. We call the day
One of the navagraha temples,
Mangalavaaram (Tuesday), after Mangala, the
Vaitheeswarankoil is about 110 km from Thanjavur
auspicious one, which is another name for Mars.
and 50km from Kumbakonam in Tamil Nadu. Here,
In Indian mythology, Mangala is portrayed as Lord Shiva is worshipped as Vaitheeswaran, the
red in colour and war-like as can be seen by the God of Healing, who cured Angaraka of his affliction.
mace and spear he holds.He is also depicted Another famous temple associated with Mangal is
showing the abhaya mudra and the varada mudra. the Mangalnath temple overlooking the Kshipra River
The origin of Mars varies depending on the different in Ujjain. According to the Matsya Purana, this is
mythological texts – some say he is the son of believed to be the birthplace of Mars.
Bhoomi devi and Lord Vishnu, when he brought
Let us pray to the Mangala graha to keep us
her up from the depths of the ocean in
success :
Varahaavatara. Others say he was born when a
drop of sweat from Lord Shiva’s brow fell on the Dharanigarbha sambhutam
earth. Either way, he is the son of Bhoomi, hence vidyutkaanti samaprabham
also known as Bhauma. Mangal’s vahana is a ram. kumaram saktihastam
tammangalam pranamaamyaham
This deity is believed to have an astrological

Born of earth, with lightning-like brilliance

Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams, Tirupati Young man spear in hand, auspicious one, I pray to
thee.
ATTENTION !!
The pilgrims are requested to
make any complaint to the Toll Think it over...
Free No.18004254141 for
the inconvenience or difficulty Q11. Name the temple discussed in the
caused. article

Chief Vigilance & Security Officer Answer in Page No. 44

T.T.Devasthanams

50 DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI

 Moral Story

said, “He is the greatest devotee of mine.”

Now Narada was surprised. He sang praises
of Lord Vishnu every day almost every
moment and did his Puja. Still, how can a
farmer be a great devotee than him?
Lord Vishnu understood the confusion
of Narada. He gave a pot filled with oil to the
brim to Narada and told him to walk and take
the pot to the nearby hill and come back
before sunset. Carefully he placed the pot
on his head and started walking away
towards the hill. It was almost evening when
Narada came back to where he had started
from. He placed the pot back in front of Lord
Vishnu and said that he took the utmost care
not to spill a single drop of oil.
Now Lord Vishnu asked, “How many
times you took my name throughout your
task?” Narada replied, “Oh Lord, forgive me.
I was so busy taking care of the pot of oil

M
that I forgot about you. I haven’t taken your
ythological stories are a great way to teach name even once.”
children about the world and all its virtues. Each of Lord Vishnu smiled and said, “This
the mythological stories and characters has its own farmer is busy in his field working and
moral which helps shape children’s vision of right and earning a living throughout the day. Still, he
wrong. takes my name in the middle of his work,
Sage Narada spent his entire day singing praises whenever he gets a chance. Now I think you
of Lord Vishnu. He is the greatest devotee of Lord can see why he is my greatest devotee”.
Vishnu. One day he asked Lord Vishnu, “Lord who is Moral: Being a devotee doesn’t mean
your greatest devotee?” Sri Maha Vishnu replied, one has to do puja or
“Come down to earth with me. I will show you.” recite the name of the
Both of them went down to earth. Sri Maha Lord evading one’s duty.
Vishnu stopped near a field, where a farmer was busy But if one does one’s job
working on his land. Lord Vishnu pointed at him and sincerely and is still able
to chant the name of
God in his heart of
Think it over...
hearts, though
Q12. Name the Lord praised by sage occasionally, it is
Narada? devotion of the higher
order.
Answer in Page No. 44

DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI 51

 PICTURE STORY Original Story in Telugu by :
Sri D. Sreenivasa Deekshitulu

TIRUPAAVAI Pictures by : Sri P. Tulasi Prasad

Translated by : Sri M.R.K. Sateesh Babu

Andal is the dear daughter of Vishnuchitha. She imagined Sri Ranganatha as her husband. To get her wish fulfilled and
also for the welfare of the people, she took decision to perform ‘Sri Vratam’ (vow). 1

Friends (Gopikas)! It’s dawn. Wake up! Come to 2 3

perform Sri Vratam. Let us know how to perform Andal.

Take bath early in the 7

morning. Do not use milk
Andal instructs them the procedure of ‘Sri Vratam’. 4 and ghee. Do not keep
flowers and kajal to eyes.
If we do this ‘Sri Vratam’, the entire world will
be prosperous. 5 Is it so? 6

What more?
8
Do not do bad things
Wake up the friends who
and Do not speak bad!
did not get
9 up yet?
Invoke Sri
Krishna!
11

Krishna!
Ok sure.
Govinda!
10
12
13 Taking daily a lyric (pasuram), singing thirty Neeladevi! Napinaa! Wake up
pasuras for a month, Andal completed ‘Sri Vratam’.
Sri Krishna! 16
Oh Lord! Provide
us rains and raise
the crops. 14

Gopala! Gopala!
15

52 DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI

52 DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI
 Govinda! Excuse the kindness. 18
Bless us with Govinda! Madhava!
sin of us with your
your divine
blessings.
17

We are fortunate to sing

We surrender at 19 the heroic activities of
your Lotus feet. yours in killing the bad
people. 20
Kindly bless us.

Oh God! We are devoid of desires. We 22

steeped in devotion of yours. Let us allow Oh Lord! We yearns to serve
to serve in all the ways that we aspire in the you and achieve perpetual
form of ‘prasadam’. 21 happiness.

With ardent devotion. Andal 24

worshipped the Lord. Her
intense desire got
fulfilled. She
Oh Lord! The amicable attained salvation
bond between us is by merging in
indestructible. Lord Ranganatha.
23

Sarve Jana
Sukino Bhavanthu

END

DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI 53

DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI 53
 Quiz
1. How many Beras (Forms of Lord Venkateswara) 8. Match the words in Column A with the Column B:
in Tirumala? A B
(a) Five (b) Six (c) Seven (d) Four
UTSAVABERAM UGRA SRINIVASAMURTHY
2. Bhagavadgita comprises of ..... chapters? DHRUVABERAM MALAYAPPA SWAMI
(a) 16 (b) 17 (c) 18 (d) 19 KOUTHUKABERAM KOLUVU SRINIVASA MURTHY
3. Name the Pushkarini in Tiruchanur temple? SNAPANABERAM BHOGA SRINIVASAMURTHY
(a) Srivari Pushkarini (b) Swami Pushkarini BALIBERAM LORD VENKATESWARA
BALIBERAM KOLUVU SRINIVASA MURTHY
(c) Padma Sarovaram (d) Ramachandra Pushkarini
KOUTHUKABERAM BHOGA SRINIVASAMURTHY
4. Sri Padmavathi temple is situated in UTSAVABERAM MALAYAPPA SWAMI
(a) Tiruchanur (b) Tirumala SNAPANABERAM UGRA SRINIVASAMURTHY
(c) Srinivasamangapuram (d) Appalayagunta DHRUVABERAM LORD VENKATESWARA
5. Name the verses written by Andal Correct Series:
(a) Venkatachala Mahaatmyam (b) Tiruppavai
(c) Srivishnu Sahasranaamam (d) Tiruvempavai
9. Unjumble the Words in this Universal Mantra:
6. Father of Prahlada?
(a) King Bali (b) Prajapathi Vishnoh Paraam Preyaseem
(c) Hiranyaksha (d) Hiranyakasipa Eesaanaam Jagathosya Venkatapather
tatkshaanthi Samvardhineem
Answer : (1) a (2) c (3) c (4) a (5) b (6) d Tadvakshasthala Nithyavasa rasikaam
Bhagavateem vande jaganmaatharam
Vaathsalyaadhi Gunojwalaam
7. Correct the proverb : Bhagavateem vande jaganmaatharam
Tomorrow do the work of today and the today Vaathsalyaadhi Gunojwalaam
work of now. tatkshaanthi Samvardhineem
work of today now. Tadvakshasthala Nithyavasa rasikaam
Answer : Do the work of tomorrow today and the Vishnoh Paraam Preyaseem
Answer: Eesaanaam Jagathosya Venkatapather

10. Riddle: Guess the name of the boy using the clues given :
1. His parents are Leelavathi and Hiranyakasipa 3. He was sent to dark room without food, pushed from the top of the
2. Chanted Om Namo Narayanaya Mantra hill, thrown into fire.
4. Lord Narasimha Swami protected him. Answer : Prahlada

DRAWING
Colour the Picture Draw the Picture as given

Printed by Sri P. Ramaraju, M.A., Special Officer (Press & Publications), T.T.D. Press, Tirupati and
Published by Dr. K. Radharamana, M.A., M.Phil., Ph.D. on behalf of Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams and
Published at Tirupati – 517 507. Editor : Dr.V.G. Chokkalingam, M.A., Ph.D.
54 DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI
DECEMBER - 2021 :: SAPTHAGIRI 54