Saundarya Lahari

Dear Readers

The following is the Saundarya Lahiri , which is posted for the betterment of every individual.

SAUNDARYA LAHARI :

(SOUNDARYA LAHARI)

SIMPLE TRANSLATION : BENEFITS

SAUNDARYA LAHARI : SHLOKAM NO.  1.

शिवः शक्त्यायुक्तो यदि भवति शक्तः प्रभवितुं

न् चेदेवं देवो न खलु कुशलः स्पन्दितुमपि ।

अतस्त्वामाराध्यां हरिहरविरिञ्चादिभिरपि

प्रणन्तुं स्तोतुं वा कथमकृतपुण्यः प्रभवति ॥१॥

Shivah shakthya yukto yadi bhavati shaktah prabhavitum

Na chedevam devo na khalu kusalah spanditumapi;

Atas tvam aradhyam Hari-Hara-Virinchadibhir api

Pranantum stotum vaa katham akrta-punyah prabhavati

Lord Shiva alongwith Shakti became able to create this world. Without Shakti, even he cannot move an inch. Therefore, a person who is not blessed with Punya obtained due to virtuous deeds, will not become eligible to worship Shakti. It is generally believed that a devotee should have Poorva Janma Punyam to worship Parashakti.

Recitation of the shloka regularly will bring all round happiness.

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SAUNDARYA LAHARI : SHLOKAM NO. 2

तनीयांसं पासुं तव चरण पङ्के रुहभवं

विरिञ्चिः सञ्चिन्वन् विरचयति लोकान विकलम् ।

वहत्येनं शौरिः कथमपि सहस्रेण शिरसां

हरः संक्षुद्यैनं भजति भसितोधूलन विधिम्  ॥२॥

Taniyamsam pamsum tava charana-pankeruha-bhavam

Virincih sanchinvan virachayati lokan avikalam;

Vahatyevam Shaurih kathamapi sahasrena shirasaam

Harah samksudy’ainam bhajati bhajati bhasito’ddhalama-vidhim.

Lord Brahma collects the fine dust from your lotus feet and creates all the worlds.  Lord Vishnu, as adisesha, supports all the worlds thus created with his thousand heads  with great effort.  Lord Shiva powders this dust off the Lotus feet of Goddess and applies it as sacred ash (vibhuti)  over  his body.

In this shloka, the power of the dust off the lotus feet of Goddess is praised.  The dust below the feet of divine persons is also considered sacred. According to Garuda Puran, there is one type of Bath known as Vayaya Snan, which is taking the dust below the feet of Cow (Go Dhuli) and smearing it all over the body. Cow is held in high reverence and called Go Mata.

Recitation of Shlokam No. 2 of Saundarya Lahari will enable to devotee to win the hearts and confidence of people around him/her.

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SAUNDARYA LAHARI : SHLOKAM NO. 3

अविद्याना मन्त स्तिमिरमिहिर द्वीपनकरी

जडानां चैतन्य स्तबक मकरन्द स्रुतिझरी ।

दरिद्राणां चिन्तामणिगुणनिका जन्मजलधौ

निमग्नानां दंष्ट्रा मुररिपुवराहस्य भवति ॥३॥

Avidyana mantas-timira-mihira-dweeppa-nagari
Jadanam chaitanya-stabaka-makaranda-sruti jhari
Daridranam cinta-mani-gunanika janma-jaladhau
Nimadhanam damshtra mura-ripu-varahasya bhavati.

Respectful Devi, the dust under your feet is like bright sunlight dispelling the inner darkness for the ignorant, for the dull-witted :  like the bouquet of knowledge-flowers dripping nectar,  for the poor : like the wish-yielding gem chintamani and for those who are submerged in the ocean of birth (and death) :  like the teeth of the boar (Varaha), an incarnation of Vishnu (who donned the form of boar and lifted the earth from the ocean by his tooth) .

In this shloka also, the dust below the feet of Goddess is eulogized.  Regular recitation of Shloka No. 3 above, will give ultimate knowledge (Sarva Vidhya Prapti) to the devotees.

A combination of Shloka No. 2 and 3 alongwith Suhasini Pooja is prescribed for attaining Ashta Aiswaryam.  But this should be done strictly under supervision of a Sri Vidhya Upasakar.

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SAUNDARYA LAHARI : SHLOKAM NO. 4

त्वदन्यः पाणिभ्या मभयवरदो दैवतगणः

त्वमेका नैवासि प्रकिटित वराभीत्यभिनया  ।

भया त्त्रातुं दातुं फलमपि च वाञ्झा समधिकं

शरण्ये लोकानां तव हि चरणावेव निपुणौ ॥४॥

Tvad anyah paanibhyam abhaya-varado daivataganah
Tvam eka n’aivasi prakatita-var’abhityabhinaya;
Bhayat tratum datum phalam api cha vancha samadhikam
Saranye lokanam tava hi charanaveva nipunav..

Respectful Goddess,  All the other gods bless the devotees by showing palm up (‘abhaya – no fear’) and palm down  (‘varada – granting wish). You alone do not show these signs since your lotus feet, the refuge of all the worlds, are themselves capable of protecting all devotees from fear and granting the wishes of all,  much more than sought for.

In this Shlokam,  Devi’s divine feet are adequately praised which, by themselves, are capable of removing all fears and also grant wishes to devotees.  Regular recitation of  shlokam number 4,  will remove all fears as also give relief from diseases.

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SAUNDARYA LAHARI : SHLOKAM NO. 5

हरिस्त्वा माराध्य प्रणतजन सौभाग्य जननीं

पुरा नारीभूत्वा पुररिपु मपि क्षोभमनयत्

स्मरोऽपि त्वां नत्वा रतिनयन लेह्येनवपुषा

मुनीनामप्यन्तः प्रभवति हि मोहाय महताम् ॥५॥

Haris tvam aradhya pranata-jana-saubhagya-jananim
Pura nari bhutva Pura-ripum api ksobham anayat;
Smaro’pi tvam natva rati-nayana-lehyena vapusha
Muninam apyantah prabhavati hi mohaya mahatam.

Devi grants all good things to those who sincerely worship her. By worshipping Devi, Lord Vishnu took pretty feminine form (of Mohini) and captivated the heart of even Lord Shiva who had burnt places (and Manmatha with his third eye). Manmatha, capable of creating love, took the form which is like nectar consumed by his wife Rathi with her eyes, worshipped Devi and with the power so achieved, he was able to create passion even in the minds of great sages who were engaged in severe tapas.

After getting burnt by Lord Shiva’s third eye, with Devi’s divine blessings, Manmatha got a beautiful body which is not visible to anybody except his wife Rathi.  In Lalitha Sahasranamam there is one Namam : “Hara Netragni Santakta Kaama Sanjeeva Naushadhi”. After getting burnt by the third eye of Lord Shiva, Manmatha survived due to Sanjeevini which is divine blessings by Devi.

Recitation of the  shlokam No. 5 of Saundarya Lahari will enable to devotees to conquer the minds of opposite sex. In other words, the devotee will be able to win over the confidence of others.

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SAUNDARYA LAHARI : SHLOKAM NO. 6

धनुः पौष्पं मौर्वी मधुकरमयी पञ्चविशिखाः

वसन्तः सामन्तो मलयमरुदा योधनरथः ।

तथाप्येकः सर्वं हिमिगिरिसुते कामपि कृपा-

मपाङ्गात्ते लब्ध्वा जगदिद मनङ्गो विजयते ॥६॥

Dhanun paushpam maurvi madhu-kara-mayi pancha visikha
Vasantaha samanto Malaya-marud ayodhana-rathah;
Tatha’py ekah sarvam Himagiri-suthe kam api kripaam
Apangat te labdhva jagadidam Anango vijayate

Kama had bow made of flowers, the string of the bow is made of honey-bees. He is said to have  only five arrows made of tender flowers, his companion (Minister) is the spring season. For war,  he rides a  chariot which is the breeze from the Malaya mountain. All the things are very delicate.  In spite of this Kama (person capable of creating love), even without a body,  is able to conquer this whole world by the grace of sideways glance of the holy eyes of  DEVI.

In this Shlokam, the divine power of even a sideways glance of GODDESS is amply described.   Kama is also referred as Manmathan in several texts.Regular recitation of this Shlokam  No. 6 will get happiness on account of children. (Santhan Sukh).

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SAUNDARYA LAHARI : SHLOKAM NO. 7

क्वणत्काञ्चीदामा करिकलभ कुंभस्तननता

परिक्षीणामध्ये परिणत शरच्चन्द्रवदना ।

धनुर्बाणान् पाशं सृणिमपि दधाना करतलैः

पुरस्तादास्तां नः पुरमथितुराहोपुरुषिका ॥७॥

Kvanat-kanchi-dama kari-kalabha-kumbha-stana-nata

Pariksheena madhye parinata-sarachandra-vadana;
Dhanur banan pasam srinim api dadhana karatalaii
Purastad astam noh Pura-mathitur aho-purushika.

Goddess is adorned with a golden waistband with tingling bells, slightly bent by the weight of her breasts resembling the bulging forehead of an elephant calf, slim at the waist, face beautiful as the full moon and holding the bow of sugar cane, arrows made of flowers, with rope and goad. It is prayed  that such Goddess who has the form of the ego of Lord Shiva who burnt three cities may please come and appear before us.

In this Shlokam, Goddess is amply described and it is prayed by the devotee that She may appear in person and bless the devotee. Regular recitation of Shlokam No.7 will give victories over enemies as also grace/blessings of  Goddess.

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SAUNDARYA LAHARI : SHLOKAM NO. 8

सुधासिन्धोर्मध्ये सुर विटपि वाटी परिवृते

मणिद्वीपे नीपो पवनवति चिन्तामणिगृहे ।

शिवाकारे मञ्चे परमशिव पर्यंकनिलयां

भजन्ति त्वां धन्याः कतिचन चिदानन्दलहरीम् ॥८॥

Sudha-sindhor madhye sura-vitapi-vati parivrte
Mani-dweepe nipo’pavana-vathi chintamani-grhe;
Shivaakare manche Parama-Shiva-paryanka-nilayam
Bhajanti tvam dhanyah katichana chid-ananda-laharim.

Goddess is a wave of consciousness and bliss, reclining on a matteress that is Lord Shiva’s lap, in a   house constructed of precious chintamani gems, surrounded by pleasure garden of Neepa trees, in the island of gems of all kinds, with several wish yielding trees, and the island itself situated in the midst of the ocean of nectar.  Devotees who are enriched with Punya  worship Devi  and are very fortunate.

Devi is known to recline on “Pancha Brahmasanam” where the four legs are Brahma,  Vishnu, Rudra and Eshanan and Shiva’s holy laps are the top portion of the cot. To reach the house of Chitamani where the devi is reclining, 25 outer entrances or barriers have to be crossed which are made of several precious gems. In different doors/entrances different persons are located like Varahi, Shyamala Devi, Yoginis, Maha Vishnu, Eshanan, Tara Devi etc.

Regular recitation of this shloka No. 8 will release the devotee from all sorts of bondages, imprisonment, debt etc.  Goddess will also bestow all sorts of happiness, better place of stay and all luxuries.

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SAUNDARYA LAHARI : SHLOKAM NO. 9

महीं मूलाधारे कमपि मणिपूरे हुतवहं

स्थितं स्वाधिष्ठाने हृदि मरुत माकाशमुपरि ।

मनोऽपि भ्रूमध्ये सकलमपि भित्त्वा कुलपथं

सहस्रारे पद्मे सह रहसि पत्या विहरसे ॥९॥

Mahim muladhare kamapi manipure huthavaham
Sthitham svadhistane hridi maruta makasam upari;
Mano’pi bhruu-madhye sakalamapi bhittva kula-patham
Sahasrare padme saha rahasi patyaa viharase.

O Goddess, you pass through six elements and finally live in seclusion with your consort Sadashiva and enjoy his company in solitude, in a lotus comprising of thousand petals. You traverse from muladhara and  pass through the earth element there and the water element in Manipura.  Then you pass through the fire element in swadhishtana , then the air element in the heart (in anahata), the space element above that (in Vishuddhi), the mind principle between the eyebrows (in agna chakra), thus breaking through the above micro ways (sushumna).

Chakras are psychic centres that lie along the axis of the spine. They are not actual parts  of the body but are to be understood as situated in the body. According to Tantra Vidhya, each of the Chakra corresponds to one of the elements. In this Shlokam, manipura chakra is corresponding to Water element and Swadishtana Chakra is to Agni element.   In the present day studies, some people have taken Manipura Chakra to represent Fire element and  Swadishtana Chakra to represent  water element.

The upward journey of the mind through various chakras mentioned above may mean slow and gradual ascent of the self towards achievement and accomplishment which cannot be described in words.

Corresponding Namam in Lalitha Sahasranamam is :

“Mooladharaika nilaya brahmagrandhi vibhedinee !

Manipoorantha ruditha vishnugrandhi vibhedinee !

Ajna Chakrantharalakstha Rudragrandhi vibhedini”

Devotees may know more about Kundalini from various sources, but it is advisable to learn/know about it from a Learned Guru.

Regular recitation Shlokam No. 9 of Saundarya Lahari will give Ashta Aishwaryam, Return of persons long absent, Good understanding with spouse and family happiness.

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SAUNDARYA LAHARI : SHLOKAM NO. 10

सुधा धारा सारैश्चरण युगलान्तर्विगलितैः

प्रपञ्चं सिञ्चन्ती पुनरपि रसाम्नायमहसः ।

अवाप्य स्वां भूमिं भुजगनिभमध्युष्टवलयं

स्वमात्मानं कृत्वा स्वपिषि कुलकुण्डे कुहरिणि ॥१०॥

Sudha-dhara-sarais charana-yugalanta vigalitaih
Prapancham sinchanti punarapi ras’amnaya-mahasah;
Avapya svam bhumim bhujaga-nibham adhyusta-valayam
Svam atmanam krtva svapishi kulakunde kuharini

The nectar that flows in between your feet,

drenches all the nerves of the body,

And descending from the moon with nectar like rays,

O’ Devi you reach back to your place,

And coiling your body in to a ring like serpant,

You sleep in the Kula Kunda  with a hole in the middle.

The previous shlokam No. 9 is a Aarohanam whereby Devi is said to rise from original place of Mooladhara to reach Sahasrara to join Sadashiva. In this shlokam No. 10, it is Avarohanam where Devi descends after enjoying extreme happiness with Sadashiva and comes back to the original place which is Mooladhara. The shlokams No. 9 and 10 are rated by learned Gurus as a combination and denote ultimate bliss.

Regular recitation of Shlokam No. 10 is said to cure general debility, increasing vitality, overcome depress and make devotees mentally strong. For using the shlokams 9 and 10 in “Mantra Roopam”, it is essential to follow the advice of Sri Vidya Upaskar.

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SAUNDARYA LAHARI : SHLOKAM NO. 11

चतुर्भिः श्रीकण्ठैः शिव्युवतिभिः पञ्चभिरपि

प्रभिन्नाभिश्शंभोर्नवभिरपि मूलप्रकृतिभिः ।

चतुश्चत्वारिंशद्वसुदलकलाश्रत्रिवलय-

त्रिलेखाभिस्सार्धं तव शरणकोणाः परिणताः ॥११॥

Chaturbhih shri-kantaih shiva-yuvatibhih panchabhir api
Prabhinnabhih sambhor navabhir api mula-prakrthibhih;
Chatus-chatvarimsad vasu-dala-kalasra-trivalaya-
Tri-rekhabhih sardham tava sarana-konah parinatah

With four wheels of our Lord Shiva, and with five different wheels of Shakti, constituting nine, which are the real basis of this world, O’ Devi, your house of the holy wheel (Sri Chakra), has different parts, of eight and sixteen petals, three different circles, and three different lines, making a total of forty four angles.

This is an important shlokam inasmuch as it highlights the Sri Chakram of Goddess.  Sri Chakra Pooja of Devi is a powerful pooja and is said to yield multiple results. Again, it is advisable to use this Shlokam No. 11 as Mantra Roopam or perform Sri Chakra Pooja with the active guidance of a Sri Vidya Upasakar.

Regular recitation of Shlokam No. 11 will result in happiness due to children, complicated problems getting solved and happiness in the household.

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SAUNDARYA LAHARI : SHLOKAM NO. 12

त्वदीयं सौन्दर्यं तुहिन गिरि कन्ये तुलयितुं

कवीन्द्राः कल्पन्ते कथमपि विरिञ्चि प्रभृतयः

यदालो कौत्सुक्यादमरललना यान्ति मनसा

तपोभिर्दुष्प्रापामपि गिरिश सायुज्यपदवीम्  ॥१२॥

Tvadiyam saundaryam Tuhina-giri-kanye tulayitum
Kavindrah kalpante katham api Virinchi-prabhrutayah;
Yadaloka’utsukyad amara-lalana yanti manasa
Tapobhir dus-prapam api girisa-sayujya-padavim.

O Devi, Daughter of Ice Mountain (Himavan),  Brahma and other great poets, by great effort, try to imagine something comparable to your beauty but they fail to do it. Only Lord Shiva can see and appreciate your beauty.  The celestial damsels are eager to see your beauty but  your pristine loveliness and beauty can be seen only through the eyes of Lord Shiva. The damsels undergo intense austerities (tapas) to  mentally merge themselves in Shiva for the above purpose.

Corresponding Nama in Lalitha Sahasranamam is

maha-lavanya shevadhih

The Shlokam No. 12 gives a clear perspective of Devi’s beauty and needs no elaboration or explanation.  Regular recitation of Shlokam No. 12 will give ultimate knowledge to the devotees, provides power of eloquent speech, improves intellect and concentration.

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SAUNDARYA LAHARI : SHLOKAM NO. 13

नरं  वर्षीयांसं नयनविरसं नर्मसु जडं

तवापांगालोके पतित मनुधावन्ति शतशः

गलद्वेणि बन्धाः कुच कलश विस्रस्तसिचया

हठा त्त्रुट्यत्काञ्च्यो विगलित दुकूला युवतयः ॥१३॥

Naram varshiyamsam nayana virasam narmasu jadam,

Thava panga loke pathitha manudhavanthi sathasa

Gala dweni bhandha kuch kalasa visthrutha sichaya

Hatath thrudyath kanchyho vigalidha dhukoola yuva thaya.

A man, though he may be old, of ugly form and who has lost interest in love gets your sideways glance and becomes so attractive that he will be followed by hundreds of young women, with their locks falling loose from their knots, with their upper garments slipping from their bodies, their waistbands sunddenly giving way and their robes sliding.

The Shlokam No. 13 describes the power of a mere sideways glance of Devi which is capable of making even an old and incapable man look attractive to hundreds of young women. The translation is self explanatory.

Regular recitation of Shlokam No. 13 will enable devotees to conquer the minds of opposite Gender.  The shlokam will also increase self confidence among men.

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SAUNDARYA LAHARI : SHLOKAM NO. 14

क्षितौ षट्पञ्चाशद्द्विसमधिक पञ्चाशदुदके

हुताशे द्वाषष्टिश्चतुरधिक पञ्चाशदनिले ।

दिवि द्विषट्त्रिंशन्मनसि च चतुःषष्टिरिति ये

मयूखास्तेषामप्युपरि तव पादांबुजयुगम् ॥१४॥

Ksitau sat-panchasad dvi-samadhika-panchasadudake
Hutase dva-sastis chatur-adhika-panchasad anile;
Divi dvih-shatrimsan manasi cha chatuh-sashtir iti ye
Mayukhastesham athyupari tava padambuja yugam.

Oh Devi, Your two Lotus (holy)  feet are  far above, The fifty six  rays of the element of earth of Mooladhara, The fifty two rays of the element of water of Mani pooraka, The sixty two rays of the element  of fire of Swadhishtana, The fifty four rays of the element  of air of Anahatha,  The seventy two rays of the element  of ether of Visuddhi, And the sixty four rays of the element  of mind of  Agna chakra.

The Shlokam No. 14 may be seen by keeping in perspective the shlokams 9 and 10  wherein various chakras have been mentioned. In this Shlokam Devi’s Holy feet is said to rank above all the elements.  Regular recitation of Shlokam No. 14 will remove debts, give freedom from diseases and makes the devotee healthy.

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SAUNDARYA LAHARI : SHLOKAM NO. 15
शरत्ज्योत्स्ना शुद्धां शशि युत जटा जूटमकुटां

वर त्रासत्राण स्फटिक घुटिका  पुस्तककराम् ।

सकृन्नत्वा नत्वा कथमिव सतां सन्निदधते

मधु क्षीर द्राक्षा मधुरि मधुरीणा फणितयः  ॥१५॥

Saraj-jyotsna-shuddham sasi-yuta-jata-juta-makutam
Vara-traasa-traana-sphatika-ghutika-pustaka karaam;
Sakrn na thva nathva katham iva sathaam sannidadhate
Madhu-kshira-drakhsa-madhurima-dhurinah phanitayah.

O Devi, Your holy face is like bright like “Sharat” Moon, with crescent moon on the head with flowing hair, hands  giving boons and protection, holding garland of crystal chain of beads and books. A devotee with pure heart prostrating before you, will always utter words from his mouth which will be only sweet as honey, milk and grapes.

The shlokam No. 15 is very clear and self explanatory. On the one part, it describes the Devi’s bright face and appearance and on the other, it is clear that the Devotee praying Goddess with pure devotion will speak only good words. If every one speaks good and sweet words, there will be absolute happiness and peace prevailing all around.

Regular recitation of Shlokam No. 15 will give the devotee mastery in poetry, eloquence in speech, increase in self confidence and remove stage fright.

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SAUNDARYA LAHARI : SHLOKAM NO. 16

कवीन्द्राणां चेतःकमल वन बाला तपरुचिं

भजन्ते ये सन्तः कतिचिदरुणामेव भवतीम् ।

विरिञ्चि प्रेयस्यास्तरुणतर शृंगारलहरी-

गभीराभिर्वाग्भिर्विदधति सतां रञ्जनममी ॥१६॥

Kavindranam chetah-kamala-vana-baal’atapa-ruchim
Bhajante ye santah katichid arunameva bhavatim;
Virinchi-preyasyas tarunatara sringara-lahari-
Gabhirabhi vagbhir vidadhati satam ranjanamami.

It is prayed to Goddess! You are like the brightness of the morning sun which illuminates the lotus forest presided by the kings of poets of the world, on account of which you are called as “Aruna” – bright red colour. The devotees who meditate on you as “Aruna”, will be blessed with such mastery over words that whatever words come out of their mouth will delight the heart of good people with its sweetness, competing with the waves of youthful sringara (emotion of love) emanating from the consort of  Brahma, Goddess Saraswati.

The Shlokam No. 16 is read in conjunction with Shlokam No. 15 wherein the mastery of words or utterance of sweet words is highlighted.  Here Parashakti in the form of Goddess Saraswati is visualized because she is capable of giving mastery in Vedas, Poetry, learning and speech.  At early morning sunrise, there is a bright red/orange light emanating which sight is an eye catching one. This bright red/orange rays of light is Aruna.

Regular recitation of Shlokam No. 16 will enable the devotee to gain mastery in Vedas, Shastras, Eloquence in speech, success in studies.  For students not able to concentrate on studies, this Shlokam with a combination of Saraswati Ashtotram and Medha Suktam is recommended.

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SAUNDARYA LAHARI : SHLOKAM NO. 17

सवित्रीभिर्वाचां शशि मणि शिला भंगरुचिभिः

वशिन्या द्याभिस्त्वां सह जननि सञ्चिन्तयति यः।

स कर्ता काव्यानां भवति महतां  भंगिरुचिभि-

र्वचोभिर्वाग्देवी वदन कमला मोदमधुरैः  ॥१७॥

Savitribhir vacham Shasi-mani-sila-bhanga-rucibhir
Vasiny’adyabhis tvam saha janani samchintayati yah;
Sa karta kavyanam bhavati mahatam bhangi-rucibhih
Vacobhi vagdevi-vadana-kamal’amoda madhuraii..

O Holy Mother Goddess ! The devotee  who meditates on your form, along with Goddess like Vashini and other Vagdevis, who are the main source of words and who are shining as the broken surface of the moonstone, will become author of great epics and  poems of such beauty and sweetness as will carry the sweet scent of the lotus face of goddess of knowledge, Saraswati.

The Vag Devis who have credit for creation of words are Vashini, Kameshwari, Modini, Vimala, Aruna, Jayini, Sarveshwari and Kaulini. There is a separate pooja prescribed for the Vagdevis which has to be followed under strict supervision of Sri Vidya Upasakar.

The Shlokam No. 17 conveys a simple meaning but has a very high inner substance.  Writing of epics and poetry is not an easy task and the devotee, by praying to Goddess will attain this benefit.

Regular recitation Shlokam No. 17 will give mastery over words and knowledge of Shastras to the devotee and make him erudite.

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SAUNDARYA LAHARI : SHLOKAM NO. 18

तनुच्छायाभिस्ते तरुण तरणिश्रीसरणिभि-

र्दिवं सर्वा मुर्वी मरुणि मनिमग्नां स्मरति यः।

भवन्त्यस्य त्रस्य द्वन हरिणशालीन नयनाः

सहोर्वश्या वश्याः कति कति न गीर्वाणगणिकाः ॥१८॥

Thanuschayabhi sthe tharuna-tharuni srisarinibhi

Divam sarva-murvi-marunimani magnam smaranthi ya

Bhavanthasya thrasya-dhwana-harina shaleena nayana

Sahervasya vasya kathikathi na geervana Ganika

Oh, Devi,  your body bathes the earth and heaven with crimson rays like that the rising Sun. How can celestial damsels like Urvashi and others, having eyes like wild startled deer, not get attracted to the devotee who meditates on you.

Shlokam No. 18 is succinct enough in eulogizing Goddess. On the one hand the beauty of Devi is described and on the other the power accuring to Devotee on account of Devi worship is mentioned.

Regular recitation of Shlokam No. 18 will enable the devotee to win over minds of opposite gender. This shlokam is also prescribed for getting good bride grooms for unmarried girls.

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SAUNDARYA LAHARI : SHLOKAM NO. 19

मुखं बिन्दुं कृत्वा कुच युग मधस्तस्य तदधो

हरार्धं ध्यायेद्यो हरमहिषि ते मन्मथकलाम्

स सद्यः संक्षोभं नयति वनिता इत्यति लघु

त्रिलोकीcमप्याशु भ्रमयति रवीन्दुस्तनयुगां

Mukham bindun kruthva kucha yuga mada sthasya thadha dho

Harardha dhyayedhyo haramamahishi the manmathakalam

Sa sadhya samkshebham nayathi vanitha inyathiladhu

Thrilokimapyasu bramayathi ravindu sthana yugam.

O’ Devi, Consort of Lord Shiva,  the dot in the centre of Sri Chakram is your beautiful face, with two busts just below and still below is the shape which is half of Lord Shiva.  He who worships you with the above in mind and with Kamakala form of meditation, not only stirs emotions in the minds of ladies but will also charm the three worlds which have Sun and Moon as busts.

Kamakala form of meditation is a long process and involves beeja mantrams like “Kleem” etc. which are to be followed only under strict supervision of Sri Vidya Upasakar.

Regular recitation of Shlokam No. 19 will make the devotee very attractive to opposite gender. This Shlokam is also prescribed for persons have planetary afflications on account of Sun and Moon in their horoscope.

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SAUNDARYA LAHARI : SHLOKAM NO. 20

किरन्तीमङ्गेभ्यः किरणनिकुरुंबामृतरसं

हृदि त्वामाधत्ते हिमकरशिलामूर्तिमिव यः।

स सर्पाणां दर्पं शमयति शकुन्ताधिप इव

ज्वरप्लुष्टान् दृष्ट्या सुखयति सुधाधारसिरया ॥२०॥

Kirantim angebhyah kirana-nikurumba’mrta-rasam
Hrdi tvam adhatte hima-kara-sila murthimiva yah;
Sa sarpanam darpam samayati sakuntadhipa iva
Jvara-plustan drshtya sukhayati sudhadhara-siraya.

Devi showers brightness of a bundle of rays of nectar. A devotee who meditates Devi in in such form and as a statue sculpted out of moon stone, conquers the pride of snakes as Garuda and by his vision (nectar like), can cure persons suffering from high fever and make them happy.

In Shlokam No. 20, Devi is visualized as a statue sculpted out of moon stone.  Besides, the power acquired by the devotee worshipping devi in such form is also shown.

Regular recitation of Shlokam No. 20 will enable the devotees to remove all toxins from the body and cure from diseases.

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SAUNDARYA LAHARI : SHLOKAM NO. 21

तटिल्लेखा तन्वीं तपन शशिवैश्वानरमयीं

निषणां षण्णामप्युपरि कमलानां तवकलाम्

महापद्माटव्यां मृदित मलमायेन मनसा

महान्तः पश्यन्तो दधति परमाह्लादलहरीम् ॥२१॥

Tatil-lekha-thanvim thapana-sasi-vaisvanara-mayim
Nishannam shannam apy upari kamalanam tava kalaam;
Maha-padma tavyam mrdita-mala-mayena manasa
Mahantah pasyanto dadhati parama’hlada-laharim.

Supreme Goddess is thin as a streak of lightning, shining like Sun, Moon and Agni, seated above the six chakras in the thousand petal lotus in the great lotus forest. Those great souls, who worship/meditate Devi, after wiping their hearts of all dirt and impurities like lust, greed, enjoy the greatest wave of bliss and happiness.

The six chakras mentioned in this Shlokam No. 21 are the ones mentioned in Shlokam No. 9.  A pre condition has been laid down for this Shlokam viz. the devotees should remove all the dirt like lust, greed etc. from their minds before recitation.

Regular recitation of Shlokam No. 21, will give utmost happiness in the family, ability to conquer the minds of others and peace of mind.

For better results, the shlokam may be recited 100 times or 500 times in front of a Pancha Mukha Deepam on those Fridays which combine with Pournami.  People who consult the author with family conditions in turmoil, have been advised this Shlokam and there have been remarkable positive results.

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भवानि! त्वं दासे मयि वितर दृष्टिं सकरुणां

इति स्तोतुं वाञ्छन् कथयति भवानि! त्वमिति यः।

तदैव त्वं तस्मै दिशसि निज सायुज्य पदवीम्

मुकुन्द ब्रह्मेन्द्र स्फुट मकुट नीराजित पदाम् ॥२२॥

Bhavaani thvam daase mayi vithara dhrishtim sakarunaam
Ithi sthothum vaanchan kathhayathi Bhavaani thvam ithi yah;
Thadhaiva thvam thasmai dhishasi nija-saayujya-padaveem
Mukundha-brahmendra-sphuta-makuta-neerajitha-padaam. [ 22 ]

O Devi, when your Das,  sincere devotee, prays for your merciful glance to fall on him, even before he says  “You Bhavani”, he is granted “Sayujya” status  whereby he merges with your holy feet, which have been bathed by bright illumination of the crowns of Vishnu, Brahma and Indra.

“Sayujya” means merger with the Divine. “Bhavani Tvam” appears twice in this Shlokam. The first one denotes, Bhavani’s Devotee prays for her merciful glance. Second one has a connotation which can mean “Bhavani, I will become you”. The Devotee’s sincere prayer will be accepted by Devi  and she grants Sayujya status to him.

Namam No. 112 of Lalitha Sahasranamam reads as “Bhavaani” which means consort of Bhavan (reference to Lord Shiva).

Regular recitation of Shokam No. 22 will give fulfillment of all earthly desires and pleasures. It will also give an ability to befriend the opponent.

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त्वया हृत्वा वामं वपुर परितृप्तेन मनसा

शरीरार्धं शम्भो रपरमपि शङ्के हृतमभूत्।

यदेतत्त्वद्रूपं सकलमरुणाभं त्रिनयनं

कुचाभ्यामानम्रं कुटिल शशि चूडाल मकुटम् ॥२३॥

Thvayaa hrithvaa vaamam vapuraparithripthena manasaa
Shareer’aardham shambho raparamapi shanke hritham abhuth;
Yadhethat thvadhrupam sakalamarunaabham thrinayanam
Kuchaabhyaamanamram kutila-shashi-chuudaala-makutam. [ 23 ]

In my mind, I visualize your form with colour of  attractive bright red, with three eyes, body slightly bent with two breasts, with a crown of crescent moon. You have taken one half of the body and not being satisfied with this, you have encroached on the other half body also.

Shiva and Shakti are one body where Shiva is white in colour and Devi is red. But Devi’s body is appearing fully in red colour and possesses three eyes, crown of crescent moon, it is believed that not having satisfied herself with half body, she has acquired the full body.

In one sect called Uttarakaulam, there is no separate Shiv Pooja and only Devi pooja is done because it is believed Shiva is merged in Shakti.

Regular recitation of Shlokam No. 23 will give all prosperity and wealth to devotee. The shlokam is also recommended for people having weak sun or moon in their horoscopes.

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जगत्सूते धाता हरिरवति रुद्रः क्षपयते

तिरस्कुर्व न्नेतत् स्वमपि वपु रीश स्तिरयति ।

सदा पूर्वः सर्वं तदिद मनुगृह्णाति च शिवः

तवाज्ञा मालंब्य क्षणचलितयो र्भ्रूलतिकयोः ॥२४॥

Jagath soothe dhaathaa hariravathi rudrah kshapayathe
Thiraskurva nnethath svamapi vapu reesha sthirayathi;
Sadhaa-purvah sarvam thadhidha manugrhnaathi cha Shivah
thavaajnaa maalambya kshana-chalithayor bhrulathikayoh.   [ 24 ]

Lord Brahma creates this world, Lord Vishnu (Hari)  protects it and Lord Rudra destroys it. Maheshwar merges Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Rudra within himself and makes himself also disappear. Sadasiva blesses them all by the holy order given by you (Devi) by a slight quivering of your eye-brows.

In shlokam No. 24 a reference is clear about the creation, protection and destruction roles of different Lords. It is ultimately Almighty Goddess who controls all these.

Namams from 264 to 274 in Lalitha Sahasranamam read as

“Srishti Kartri Brahma Rupaa Goptri Govinda Rupiney,
Samhaarini Rudrarupa Tirodhaanakareswari, Sadaa Shivaanugrahadaa Pancha krutya Paraayana!”

Devi! You are the Srishti Kartri being Brahma Rupini; the Goptri or the Protector as Govinda Rupini; Samhaarini or the Annihilator as of Rudra Rupa; the Tirodhaanakari or as the withdrawing Swarupini as Ishwara and finally the Sadaa Shiva who provides Anugraha or impetus to Re-Create again; such are the Five Swarupas of Yourself Devi viz. Brahma- Vishnu- Rudra-Ishwara and Sada Shiva; You Devi ! Are thus the Pancha Krutya Paraayana or the Practitioner of Five Sacred Deeds!)

Regular recitation of Shlokam No. 24 will remove all sorts of fears from the minds of devotees, as also protects from curse of deceased ancestors.

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त्रयाणां देवानां त्रिगुण जनितानां तव शिवे

भवेत् पूजा पूजा तव चरणयो र्या विरचिता ।

तथा हि त्वत्पादो द्वहन मणिपीठस्य निकटे

स्थिता ह्येते शश्वन्मुकुलित करोत्तंस मकुटाः ॥२५॥

Thrayaanaam devaanaam thri-guna-janithaanaam thava Shive
Bhaveth puja puja thava charanayor yaa virachithaa;
Thathhaa hi thvath-paadho’dhvahana-mani-peethasya nikate
Sthithaa hy’ethe shashvan mukulitha-karotthamsa-makutaah   [ 25 ]

O Devi, Pooja done to your Lotus Feet is equivalent pooja done  to Trinity (three Lords) who have appeared based on your three properties. The Trinity always stand with their folded hands on their crown,  near the gem studded low stool which supports your Lotus Feet.

The trinity, viz. Lord Brahma, Lord Vishnu and Lord Rudra are always believed to be worshipping Goddess. The three properties mentioned in Shlokam No. 25 are Rajo Gunam, Satwa Gunam and Tamo Gunam.

Namam No. 83 of Lalitha Sahasranamam reads as “Brahmopendra Mahendraadi Deva samsthuta vaibhavaa” which means “Devi who is worshipped by Brahma, Vishnu and Mahendra (Shiva)”.

Regular recitation of Shlokam No. 25 will give high power, authority and increase in income.

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विरिञ्चिः पञ्चत्वं व्रजति हरिराप्नोति विरतिं

विनाशं कीनाशो भजति धनदो याति निधनम् ।

वितन्द्री माहेन्द्री विततिरपि सम्मीलित दृशा

महासंहारेऽस्मिन् विहरति सति त्वत्पति रसौ ॥२६॥

Virinchih panchathvam vrajathi hariraapnothi virathim
Vinaasham keenasho bhajathi dhanadho yaathi nidhanam;
Vithandhri maahendhri vithathirapi sammeelitha-dhrshaa
Mahaa-samhaaresmin viharathi sathi thvath-pathi rasau.   [ 26 ]

At the time of deluge (Maha Pralaya), Brahma, Vishnu, Yama and Kubera cease to exist.  The Indras close their eyes one after another and go to ever lasting sleep. At this stage of deluge, Oh Sati, your consort plays with you gleefully.

Shlokam No. 26 is fairly clear.  Only Lord Shiva and Shakti remain indestructible. Devi is referred to as “Sati” which term denotes Pati Vrata Stree.

Namam No. 232 of Lalitha Sahasranamam reads as “Maheshwara Mahaa Kalpa Mahaa Taandava Saakshini,” which means : “You witnessed the Cosmic Dance of Maheshwara at the end of Maha Kalpa”.

Again, Namam No. 571 of Lalitha Sahasranamam reads as “Maha Pralaya Saakshini,” which means : “Devi who witnessed the Maha Pralaya (Deluge)”.

Regular recitation of Shlokam No. 26 will give victories over enemies both within the house and in the outside world. The devotee will also gain self confidence.

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जपो जल्पः शिल्पं सकलमपि मुद्राविरचना

गतिः प्रादक्षिण्य क्रमण मशना द्याहुति विधिः ।

प्रणामः संवेशः सुख मखिल मात्मार्पण दृशा

सपर्या पर्याय स्तव भवतु यन्मे विलसितम् ॥२७॥

Japo jalpah shilpam sakalamapi mudraa-virachanaa
Gathih praadakshinya-kramana mashanaa dhy’aahuthi-vidhih;
Pranaamah samveshah sukha makhila maathmaarpana-dhrshaa
Saparyaa-paryaaya sthava bhavathu yanme vilasitham.              [ 27 ]

O Devi, with total surrender to you in my mind, let all my utterings be chanting of your name, let all actions with my hands be “Mudras” (signs of worship), let my walk be treated as circumambulations (pradakshinams),  let  the act of eating and drinking by me be equal to homam to you (fire sacrifice), let my posture of sleeping be equal to prostrations (namaskarams) to you, let all my simple enjoyable acts/deeds be synonymous with my Pooja to you.

Namam No. 977 in Lalitha Sahasranamam reads as “Dasa Mudra Samaaraadhya”, which means Devi who is worshipped with ten mudras.

There are ten Mudras using fingers in Devi worship.  The Ten Mudras or hand-finger gestures are Sankshobhini (Jolting), Baana (Arrow), Aakarshana (Attraction), Vashya (Power), Unmaada (Ecstasy), Mahaankusha (the Great Goad), Khechary    (Flying), Vijayini (Victory), Trikhanda (Three Sections) and Dhanu (Bow).  In some texts, two more Mudras are mentioned viz. Vidraveeni and Yoni.

In Shlokam No. 27 the two words are seen which are Saparya Paryaya : Saparya is Pooja and Paryaya is Synonymous.  All the  actions of the devotee are considered to be synonymous with Pooja of Goddess.

Regular recitation of Shlokam No. 27 will give ultimate knowledge to the devotee.  This shlokam is beneficial for students who are learning classical dance and music.

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सुधामप्यास्वाद्य प्रति भय जरा मृत्यु हरिणीं

विपद्यन्ते विश्वे विधि शतमखाद्या दिविषदः ।

करालं यत्क्ष्वेलं कबलितवतः कालकलना

न शंभोस्तन्मूलं तव जननि ताटङ्क महिमा ॥२८॥

Sudhaamapyaasvaadhya prathi bhaya-jaraa-mrtyu-harineem
Vipadhyanthe vishve Vidhi-Shathamakhaadhyaa dhivishadah;
Karaalam yathkshvelam kabalithavathah kaala-kalanaa
Na Shambhosthan-moolam thava janani thaadanka-mahimaa.  [ 28 ]

O Devi, Even after consuming the divine nectar which can prevent aging and death, Lord Indra and Lord Brahma perished in Deluge (Maha Pralaya). But Lord Shiva who had consumed the strong poison, did not lose his life due to the power of your Holy Ear Studs (Tatanga).

Learned people always advise all married ladies to definitely wear ornaments pertaining to ear. The shlokam No. 28 directly or indirectly highlights the power of Pati Vrata Stree’s prayers which are capable of giving long life to their husbands.

Namam No. 22 of Lalitha Sahasranamam reads as “Thaatanka yugali bhuta tapanodupa Mandalaa” which means Devi your ear rings are represented by Sun and Moon and have cosmic relevance.

Again, Namam No. 864 of Lalitha Sahasranamam reads as “Kanath Kanaka Thaatanka” which means “Devi wearing bright golden ear studs”.

Regular recitation of shlokam No. 28 gives protection from accidents, untimely death and removes fear from mind as also enables attainment of desires.

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किरीटं वैरिञ्चं परिहर पुरः कैटभभिदः

कठोरे कोटीरे स्खलसि जहि जंभारि मकुटम् ।

प्रणम्रेष्वे तेषु प्रसभ मुपया तस्य भवनम्

भवस्या भ्युत्थाने तव परिजनोक्ति र्विजयते ॥२९॥

Kireetam vairincham parihara purah kaitabha bhidah
Katore kotire skhalasi jahi jambhaari-makutam;
Pranamreshwe theshu prasabha mupaya thasya bhavanam
Bhavasy’aa bhyutthaane thava parijanokthir vijayathe.          [ 29 ]

O Devi, “avoid the crown of Lord Brahma”, “you may stumble upon the crown of Lord Vishnu who had slain the Asura Kaidaba”,  “Set aside the crown of Lord Indra’. These are the words from the divine Maids that echo in your place when you get up and rush to receive Lord Shiva when he comes to your place at the time when Lords Brahma, Vishnu and Indra are prostrating before you.

It is visualized that in Devi’s chamber, the three lords are prostrating in front of Devi. At that time Lord Shiva makes his appearance.  In an anxiety to receive Lord Shiva, Devi rushes forward.   Fearing that Devi might stumble upon the crowns of the prostrating Lords, the maids of Devi anxiously utter these words, keeping safety of Devi in their minds.

Regular recitation of shlokam No. 29 will ensure smooth delivery in case of expectant mothers as also ability to conquer the minds of enemies.

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स्वदेहोद्भूताभि र्घृणिभि रणिमाद्याभि रभितो

निषेव्ये नित्ये त्वा महमिति सदा भावयति यः ।

किमाश्चर्यं तस्य त्रिनयन समृद्धिं तृणयतो

महासंवर्ताग्नि र्विरचयति नीराजन विधिम् ॥३०॥

Sva-dheh’odhbhoothaabhir ghrnibhi ranimaadhyaabhi rabhitho
Nishevye nithye thvaa mahamithi sadhaa bhaavayathi yah;
Kimaashcharyam thasya thrinayana-samrddhim thrinayatho
Mahaa-samvarthaagnir virachayathi neerajana-vidhim.       [ 30 ]

O Devi Eternal, you are surrounded by the divine feminine forms formed out of rays emanating from your body which have special powers. The devotee who completely identified himself with this form of yours and intensely meditates on you, attains the riches greater than that of three eyed Shiva (Tri Nayana).

A devotee who worships Devi, considering the Goddess as his Atma, will be blessed by the Devi and the such Devotee will be respected by people around him/her.

Regular recitation of Shlokam No. 30 will enable the devotee to attain physical powers, ultimate knowledge and make others respect him. This will also give him ability to control others.

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