Hindu Vedic Philosophy (Puranas)

Mahatma Pushkar revealed the significance of Vishnu Panjara Stotra to Parashu Rama, which provides Raksha to whoever recites it. In the past, Bhagavan Brahma endowed the Stotra to Shankara Deva to provide with him safety at the time of battle with Tripuraasura and the same was furnished to Indra by Brihaspati while terminating the demon Bali. This Stotra is popular as a means of securing protection and well being, besides functioning as a shield while facing any impending danger or risk as also to accomplish success and victory:

Vishnuh praacyaam sthitaschakri  Harir-dakshinato Gadee,

Prateetchaam Shaarangadhrug Vishnurjishnuh khadgee mamottarey/

Hrishikesho Vikoneshu tatcchidreshu Janaardanah,

Krodarupee Herirbhumow Narasimheswrarey mama/

Kshuraantamamalam chakram bhramatyetat Sudarshanam,

Asyaamshumaalaa dushprekshya hantum pretanishaacharaan/

Gadaa cheyam Sahasraarchih pradeepta paavakojjvalaa,

Raksho bhuta pisaachaanaam Daakineenaam cha naashani/

Sharanga visphurjitah chaiva Vasudevasya madrapuun,

Tiryangmanushya kushmaanada preeytaadeena hantwa seshatah/

Khangadhharojjwala jyotsnaana nirdhuta ye samaahitaah,

tey yaantu shaamyataam sadyo Garudeneva Pannagaah/

Yey Kushmaandasthaa Yaksha ye Daityaa ye Nishaacharaah,

Pretaa vinaayakaah kruraa Manushyaa  Jaambhagaah Khagaah/

Simhaadayascha pashavo danda suukaascha pannagaah,

Sarvey bhavantu tey sowmyah Krishnashankharavaaritaah/

Chittavrittiharaa ye mey ye janaah  smriti haarakaah,

Balowjasaam cha hartaarascchaayaa vibhramschakaascha ye/

Ye Chopabhoga hartaaro  ye cha lakshana naasakaah,

Kushmaandastey pranashyantu Vishnu chakra ravaahitaah/

Buddhi swasthyam Mah swasthyam swasthya –maindriyakam tathaa,

Mamaastu Deva devasya Vaasudevasya keertanaat/

Pushthey purastaanmama Dakshinottarey vikonatchaastu Janaardano Haarih,

 Tameedyameeshaana manantamacyhutam Janaardanam pranipatito na seedati/

Yathaa param Brahma Haristathaa paro Jagatswarupascha sa eva Keshavah,

Satyena teynaachyuta naama keertanaat pranashyetu trividham  mamaashubham/

( In the Eastern side is Chakradhaari Vishnu and in the Southern side is Gadaadhaari Shrihari. Bhagavaan Hrishikesha is protecting in the ‘Dikkonas’ or side-angles, Janaardana is situated in the middle portion. Varaaha dhaari Shrihari is protecting on the Bhumi and Bhagavan Nrisimha shields on the Shy. In the other side-lines Sudarshana Chakra is constantly on the move and provides guard all over. If ‘Pretas’ or ‘Nishaacharas’-the night-long tormentors-seek to bother, they woud find it impossible to withstand the extreme dazzle of the Sudarshana Chakra. Bhagavan Shri Hari’s ‘Gadaa’ (Mace) called Kaumudi sparkles with thousands of highly explosive rays. These sizzling rays destroy Rakshasas, Bhutas, Piscachas and Daakinis instantly. Bagavan Vaasudeva’s Sharanga Dhanush creates such deafening and reverberating sound waves that ‘Shatru Bhuta Manushya’(most cruel humans), ‘Kushmandas’, ‘Pretas’, ‘Tiryagyoni’ Praanis or these frightening species on way back to be reborn again are extinguished at once. Those named or unnamed enemies to the devotees would get flooded in the tempestuous flows of overwhelming sparks of the ‘Khadga’ (Sword) of Shri Hari, in the same maaner as Garuda Deva exteminates serpents. All the species that seek to torture Vishnu’s devotees-be they Kushmanadas, Yakshas, Rakshasas, Pretas, Viyayakas, cruel human beings, hunting birds of huge or miniscule sizes, animals  like lions or tigers, snakes, or of any evil spirits, would get overpowered by the ‘Shankha naada’ of Bhagava. May Vishnu Kirtana provide me ‘Buddhi’, ‘Man’ and physical control and bestow ‘Swasthya labha’or multi-sided equilibrium to my inner- conciousness and purify my Soul to be worthy of the grace of Bhagavan Vishnu. Dedicated Bhaktaas are never let down by the most merciful ‘Paramaatma’; May this ‘Vishnu Panjara’ shield me from wordly distress and lead me on to the Sacred Path of Mukti

2      Maarjana /Apaamaarjana Stotras for Raksha to self and others

Agni Deva suggested to Narada Muni the following Stotras to provide safety to human beings for themselves and for others as also mitigate difficulties and bestow happiness:

Om namo Paramaarthyaaya Purushaaya Mahaatmaaney,

Aruupa Bahu Rupaaya Vyapiney Paramaatmaney/

Nishkalmashaaya Shraddhaaya Dhyaanayoga rataayacha,

Namaskrutya Pravakshaami yat tatsidhyatu mey vachah/

Varaahaaya NrisimhaayaVamanaaya Mahatmaney,

Namaskrutya Pravakshaami Yat tatsudyhatu meyvacha/

Trivikramaaya Raamaaya Vaikunthaaya Naraaya cha,

Namaskruthya pravakshaami yat tat siddhyatu mey vacha/

( Om Paramaartha Swarupa, Prathama Purusha, Mahatma, Niraakaara, Sahsra Rupa, the All Pervading Paramaatma, the Blemishless and the epitome of  Purity, Serenity and ever worthy of meditation: may this inner voice of mine be truthful that my protection is always assured by you; Varaha Deva, Narasiha Deva and Vamana Deva, may my fortification be assured; may Trivikrama Deva, Rama and Vaikunthaya, my sincere salutations to you and may my wellbeing be always assured.)

Varaaha Naraimhesha Vaamanesha Trivikrama,

Hayagriva Sarvesha Hrishikesha Haraashubham/

Aparaajita Chakraadyaischaturbhih Paramaardhaih,

Akhanditaanu bhaavaaistwam Sarvadushta haro bhava/

Haraamukasya duritam sarvam cha kushalam kuru,

Mrithyu bandhaarthibhayadam durishtasya cha yatphalam/

(Bhagavan Varaha, Nrisimha, Vaamaneswara, Trivikrama, Hayagrivesha, Sarvesha, Hrishikesha! The Unconquerable Parameshwara! May all my ‘Ashubhas’ or inauspicious happenings be demolished! May your ‘Chakra of endless energy and other most powerful ‘Aayudhaas’ wipe out my enemies! May my illnesses and bodily afflictions be obliterated and my sins be destroyed, while bestow upon me ‘Sarva Kushalam’ (total propitiousness) and Kshema (safety). Deva! Provide me with the ‘Phala’ of yagnas devoid of imperfections and indemnify me from untimely death, ill health, shackles of any kind, ill-omens, and frights.)

Paraabhidhyaana sahitaih prayuktam cha abhichaarikam,

Garasparsha mahaaroga prayogam jarayaa jara/

Om namo Vasudevaaya namah Krishnaaya khadginey,

Namah Pushkara netraaya Keshavaayadi chakriney/

Namah Kamalakinchatkapeeta nirmala vaasasey,

Mahahavir puraskandhadhrushta chakriney/

Danshtrodhrutakshiti bhrutey Trayee Mutrtimatey namah,

Mahayagna Varaahaaya Shobhaaganka shaayaney/

Taptahaataka keshaantadjjwalatpaavaka lochana,

Vajraadhika sprasha Divya Simha Namostutey/

Kaashapaayaati hraswaaya Rugyajushssaama bhushiney,

Tubhyam Vaamana Rupaayaakramatey gaam Namo Namah/

(Those who have the evil-feelings of harming others by way of perfoming ‘Abhichaarika Karmas’ or negative deeds such as administering poisonous food / drinks ought to be obliterated and their misdeeds be retalliated. Vasudeva, Khadgadhari, Chakradhari, Kamalanayana and ‘Peetambaradhara’, who wears excellent clothes of saffron colour, please accept my salutations. You are the Yagna Varaha and Veda Vigraha who had saved ‘Prithvi’and Vedas by your powerful ‘damshtras’ (tusks); You are Narasimha who had piercing and dazzling eyes and iron-like sharp nails by whose mere touch was slaughtered the invincible demon, Hiranya –kashipu; You are Vamana Deva the embodiment of Rug-Yajur and Sama Vedas and manifested as the Virat Swarupa who occupied the Three Worlds to facilitate the re-installation of Devas in Swarga and to bring the Universe to Order as Trivikrama)

Varaahasesha drishtaani sarva paapa phalaani vai,

Marda Marda Mahaa Damshtra Marda Mardacha tatphalam/

Narasimha karaalasya danta praanataanalojjwala,

Bhanja bhanja ninaadena dushtaan pashyaarti- naashana/

Rugyajussaama garbhaabhi raavirbhavar Vaamanarupadhruk,

Prashaam Sarva Duhkhaani nayatvasya Janaardana/

Ekaahikam Dwayahikam cha tatha Tridivasam Jwaram,

Chaturthikam tathaatyugram tathaiva satatam jwaram/

Doshothyam sannipaatestham tathaivaganthukam jwaram,

Shamamnayaashu Govindachhindhi chhindhyasya Vedanaam/

( Varaharupi Narayana, please devastate all kinds of dangerous diseases born out of long standing sins; Maha Varaha! Vikata Nrisimha! Do ravage the enemies who occupied my fortunes and fate for long; Vamana deha dhaari! Being the embodiment of all ‘confidential Tatwas, kindly provide solace and alleviate sufferings of physical and psychological nature to human beings. Govinda! Humanity is suffering from descriptions of various diseases like Tridoshaja, Sannipaataja, Agantuka, Ekaahika, Dwaahika, Traahika, Atyanta Ugra, and so on. Please extinguish these and other diseases, Parama Deva!

Netra duhkham Shiro duhkham duhkhamchodara sambhavaam,

 Anishwaasamatishwaasham paritaapam savepathum/

Gudaghraanaanghri rogaanscha kushthu rogaamstatha kshayam,

kaamalaamdeesthatha rogaanprameyhaamchaati daarunam/

Bhagandara –atisaaraamscha mukharogaamscha valguleem,

Ashmareem mutrakrucchaamscha rogaanaamscha daarunaan/

ye vaataprabhaavaa rogaa ye cha pittha samudbhavaah,

Kaphodbhavaascha ye kechid yechaanye saamnipaatikaah/

Aagantukaaschaye rogaa lutaavisphotakaadayah,

the sarvam prashamamyaantu Vaasudevasya kirtanaan/

Vilayam yaantutey sarvey Vishnorucchaaraneyacha,

Kshayam gacchaantu Govinda naaocchaarana bheshajaat,

Nashyati sakalaa rogaah Satyam Satyam vadaamyaham/

(May those persons suffering from eyes, head, stomach, breathing, sweating, shivering, mulavyadhi, nasal problems, foot diseases, leprosy, kshaya, kaamalaadi roga, bhagandar, atisaara, facial problems, valguli, stones, kidneys, and so on be cured.  By virtue of Vaasudeva Sankeertana, all kinds of Vaataja, Pittaja, kaphaja, sannipaataja, Aagantuka, lutaa (Makari), Visphota (boils) etc. could be cured by the swing of Suarshana chakra. By taking the names of Achyuta, Ananta and Govinda, various diseases would be destroyed indeed!

Sthaavaram jangamam vaapi krutrimam chaapi yadvisham,

Dantodbhavam nakhabhavamaakaasha prabhavam visham/

Lootikaadi prabhavam yaccha vishamanyatu duhkhadam,

Shamam nayatu tatsarvam Vaasudevasya keertanam/

Grahaan Pretagrahaamschaapi tathaa vai daakinigrahaan,

Betaalaamsha Pishaachaamscha Gandharvaan Yaksha Raakshasaan/

Shakuniputanaadyaamscha tathaa Vainaayakaangrahaan,

Mukhamandeem tathaa kruraam Revatim Vrudbharevatim/

Vruddhika –akhyaanangrahaams tatha Matrugrahaanapi,

Baalaasya Vishnoscharitam hantu Balagrahaanimaan/

Vriddhaascha ye Grahaah kechida ye cha Balagrahah kwachit,

Narasimhaya tey drushtyaa dagdhaa ye chaapi Youvaney/

Sataakaraala vadano Naarasimho Mahabalah,

Grahaanaseshaannihseshaan karotu jagato hitah/

Narasimha Mahasiha Jjwaamaalojjwalaanana,

Grahaanaseshaan Sarvesha khaada Khaadogni lochana/

(Bhagavan Vaasudeva’s  Samkeertana would certainly appease several types of poisons like Sthavara, Jangama, Kritrima, Dantodhbhuta, Nakhodbhuta, Aakaashodbhuta and Lutikadbyotpanna varieties. Kirtanas on ‘Bala Krishna charitra’ would decimate Balagrahas like Grahas, Preta Grahas, Dakini Grahas, Vetaals, Pishachaas, Gandharvas, Yakshas, Rakshasas, Shakuni-Putana Grahas, Vinayaka grahas, Mukha mandikaas, Cruel Revatis, Vrudbarevati, Vrudhbhika graha and Matru Grahas.May Bhagavan Narasimha’s extreme vision burn off Vriddha, Bala and Yuva Grahas into ashes. Maha Nrisimha! Do devastate all the Dushta Grahas with your piercing looks and provide us liberation.

Ye rogaa ye Mahotpaataa Yadvisham ye Mahagrahah,

Yaanicha krurabhutaani graha –peedaashcha daarunaah/

Shastra khateshu ye doshaa Jwaalaagardhabhakaadayah,

Taani Sarvaani Sarvaatmaa Paraamaatmaa Janaardanah/

Sarva dushtaanirakshaamsi kshayam yaantu Vibhishana,

Praachyaam Prateechyaam cha dishi Dakshinottarasthaa/

Rakshaam karotu Sarvaatmaa Narasimhah swagarjithaih,

Divi Bhuvantarikshye cha Pushthitah paarsyetogratah/

Rakshaam karotu Bhagavaan Bahurupee Janardanah/

Yatha Vishnurjagatsarwam sadevasura maanusham,

tey na Satyena drushtaani shamasya vrajantu vai/

(Vasudeva! Do assume which ever Form that you intend to; but destroy all kinds of diseases, utpataas, poison, Maha Grahas, Bhutas, Graha Peedas, ‘Shastra kshata’ or surgery-oriented tribulations, burns, and any other difficulties. May Sarvatma Nrisimha guard our Eastern, Western, Northern and Southern directions with his frightening roars; May Janardana protect us in Bhuloka, Swarga loka, ‘Antariksha’ and all that one could not be perceived by us! May Bhagavan Vishnu who is the Swarupa of the entire Universe including Devas, Daityas and human beings provide shield to one and all and safeguard us all from all kinds of physical and other evils and diseases!)        

Yada Vishnow smritey sadyah samkshayam yaanti paatakaah,

Satyena tena sakalam dushtamasya prashaamyatu,

Yathaa Yagneswaro Vishnurdeveshvapi hi geeyatey/

Satyana tena sakalam yanmayoktam tathaastu tat,

Shantirastu Shivam chaastu dushtamasya prashaamyatu/

Vaasudeva shareetarothaih kushainirnaashatam maya,

Aapaamaarjitu Govindo Naro Narayanastathaa/

Tathaastu Sarva duhkhaanaam pprashamovachanaadvareh,

Apaamaarjanakam shastam Sarvarogaadivaaranam/

Aham Harih kushaa Vishnur hataa rogaa mayaa tava/

(At the very thought of Shri Vishnu, the long-stored groups of sins wilt away instantly and in the same manner all the diseases fade away too. Vishnu is always extolled by all Devatas and this truth underlines the fact that sins and diseases wither away for human beings too. The Kusha grass is stated to emerge from Vishnu’s own body and little wonder that the ‘Apaamarjana Stotra’ enables the sins and maladies of devotees to get flushed out of their physiques for good

8    A Brief on Vedas and Puranas

Mahatma Pushkar gave an Outline on Vedas by way of emphasising their key role in Hindu Dharma. Vedas are the beacon lights to search the ways and means to achieve the ‘Purusharthas’ of Dharma, Artha, Kama and Moksha. The four Vedas viz. Rig, Yajur, Saama and Atharva Vedas put together are stated to total one lakh Mantras. Rigveda contains two distinct ‘Shaakhaas’ or branches, viz. ‘Sankhyayana’ and ‘Ashvala -ayana’and together contains one thousand Mantras, while Rigvediya Brahmana Bhhaga contains two thousand Mantras. Maharshis like Shri Krishna Dwaipayana took Rigveda as ‘Pramana’ (Standard) Veda. Yajur Veda contains nineteen thousand Mantras. Of these, the Brahmana Grandhas have one thousand Mantras and the Shaakhas have one thousand six hundred and eight Mantras. In Yajurveda the main Shaakhaas are ‘Kanvi’, ‘Maadhyanandini’, ‘Kathi’, ‘Maadhya Kathi’, ‘Maitraayani’, ‘Taittireeya’ and ‘Vaishampaaniya’. Saama Veda has two main Shakhas viz. ‘Kouthuma’ and ‘Aatharvaayani’or Raamaayaniya’ and these contain ‘Veda’, ‘Aaranyaka’, ‘Uktha’ and ‘Vuuh’ ‘Gaanaas’ or Verses. Saama Veda has nine thousand four hundred twenty five Mantras-all stated to be related to Brahma. Atharva Veda has Rishi-oriented Shaakhaas like Sumantu, Jaajali, Shlokaayani, Shounaka, Pippalaad and Munjakesha. These contain sixteen thousand Mantras and hundred ‘Upanishads’. The Shaakha differentiation of Vedas and of Itihaasaas and Puraanas was stated to have been done by Vishnu Himself and were of Vishnu Swarupa. Vyaasa preached Puranas to Lomaharshana and to Suta by way of ‘Purana Pravachana’.The main ‘Sishyas’ of Vyasa were Sumati, Agnivarcha, Shimshapaayan, Kritavrata and Saavarni. Shimshapaayan and others were engaged in constructing ‘Samhitaas’.                                                                                                  

Pushkar informed Parashurama that Lord Brahma described the various Puranas to his Manasa Putra Maharshi Marichi. Brahma Purana has twenty five ‘Shlokas’/ Stanzas and might be given as ‘Daan’(charity) to a Brahmana on Vaishakha Purnima along with a Jala Dhenu or Water-Cow. Padma Purana‘s Padma Samhita or Bhumi Khand has twelve thousand Shlokas which might be given away in charity with a cow on Jyeshtha Purnima for the benefit of reading/ hearing it. Vishnu Purana with twenty three thousand Shokas is best given in charity along with a Jala Dhenu on Ashadha Purnima for ‘Vishnu Pada Prapti’.Vayu Purana with fourteen thousand stanzas is Bhagavan Shankara’s loved one and its ‘daana’by the donor should preferably be hand written along with Gud (Jaggery)-Dhenu on Shravana Purnima for excellent results.Maha Bhabaata Purana is an Eighteen thousand Shloka volume with Vishnu orientation for Daana on Bhadrapada Purnima along with a golden Simhasana. Narada Purana with twenty thousand Shlokas described Brihatkalpa’s principles of Dharma and is given as daana on Ashvin Purnima along a cow.Markandeya Purana with nine thousand Shlokas contained preachings of ‘Pakshis’ on ‘Dharaaadharma’topics and is best awarded to a Bramhana on a Kartika Purnima. Being a comprehensive exposition of several Principles of Dharma, Mantras and Vedangas, Agni Purana contained twelve thousand Shlokas which may be given away in charity to a deserving Veda Pundit on Marga Sirsha month preferably on hand written form by the donor; this Purana is a bestower of ‘Maha Phalas’ as it contains age old Mantras to socially oriented teachings.Bhavishya Purana is with orientation of Surya Deva, emphasizing his Supremacy over fourteen thousand Shlokas and ‘daan’ of jaggery and fruits on Pousha Purnima day assures excellent health and quality life by the grace of Surya Deva. Brahma Vaivarta Purana containing eighteen thousand Shlokas was scripted at the instance of Saavaran Manu and is best offered as charity to a Brahmana on Magha Purnima. On the same Magha Purnima, charity along with Varaha Purana would accomplish Brahma loka. Linga Purana with eleven thousand Shlokas is all about Agnimaya Linga of Parameswara and its charity on Phalguni Purnima with Tila Dhenu assures Shiva Prapti. Garuda Purana with twenty four thousand Shlokas depicting the picture of post-life experiences has to be given as daana to a Brahmana on Chaitra Purnima along with Suvarna Hamsa (Golden Swan) for favour of securing ‘Vishnu Pada’/ Vaikuntha. Skanda Purana is the longest of Puranaas scripted with eighty four thousand Stanzas and charity of this Purana on Chaitra Purnima would bestow Shivaloka Prapti. Matsya, Kurma and Vamana Puranas have thirteen thousand, eight thousand and ten thousand Shlokas respectively and charites of golden fish; golden Kurma and golden Vishnu Murti are best performed on Sharad Purna Vishu Samkraanti. Brahmanda Purana with twelve thousand Shlokas is to be offered to a Vedic Brahmana alng with ‘Daanaas’.

9.   Temple Construction and fruits

Even a thought of constructing a Temple or a Water Body is adequate to demolish sins of long standing nature and to actually accomplishing the task is like establishing a right to reach Vaikuntha. The devotee who completes the temple construction also redeems the sins of his previous generations; indeed, his ‘pitaras’ would secure instant relief from the torments of hells and qualify for substantial dispensations.The person(s) responsible for this deed of extraordinary merit is eligible for ‘Yagna Phal’, ‘Samasta Tirthta Snaana Phal’, and ‘veera phal’or death on battle fields. If a miser takes up the deed of Temple renovation, let alone construction, would in his own life time qualify the fulfillment of his dream-like aspirations of muliplying his assets. The construction of even an ‘Ekayatan’ or single one room temple would attain Swargaloka. A ‘trayayatan’ ‘mandira nirmaan’ enables reaching Brahma loka. A ‘panchaayatan mandira nirmaan’bestows Shiva Loka and an ‘Ashtaayatan’, facilitates Srihari’ Sannithi’ while a ‘Shodayatana’ fulfils Purushaarthas, of Dharma, Artha, Kaama and Moksha. A rich person’s lavishness in temple construction would indeed undermine the effort of a poor but motivated person’s temple consruction, thus proving that the motivation would have to emerge from ‘within’ rather than from fat money-pocket. Even when children for fun or playfulness build temples with sand would also qualify for salvation. Persons who undertake repairs, let alone construct temples new, are also eligible for attaining Mukti. Those who are responsible for constructing temples of Vishnu, Shiva, Surya or Devi become residents of those very Lokas and more significantly their family members too share the same benefit. Of what avail is the money earned by a rich person if even a temple is not constructed by him or her! Of what avail is such opulence not spared for the use of the poor, the Brahmanas, or for noble deeds! Just as death is certain, the riches unused for religious purposes too are certain to vanish sooner or later. That is why charity is one sure way of redeeming the sins of the past and providing a shield against the onslaught of sins of the future. And the crowning act of charity is to construct temples! Equally significant is to set up ‘Deva Pratimas’made of wood or bricks or stone or the best of all by metals. It is stated that ‘Deva Pratima Sthapana’ along with the relevant Mantras and accompanying formalities and regular worship is a far reaching deed of divinity. Lord Yama Dharmara Raja addressed the ‘Yamadootas’ and said: ‘Never bring human beings to ‘Narakas’ who constructed temples, or set up Idols of Devas, or were engaged in regular Pujas there. Aviod those persons from a distance who are connected with devotion of Bhagavan, especially taking the name of the Supreme while in sleep or consciousness, while sitting or walking, or in any other positions. Be far away from those who enter the temples and make offerings to Bhagavan of flowers, dhoop, clothings etc, in the service of Bhagavan. Never even look at those who built ‘Mandirs’ of Bhagavan of any name like Vishnu/ Shiva/ Shakti and other Forms or even the progeny or relatives of those illustrious devotees as there is no question of bringing those to Narakas at all. Dharmaraja said:

Ishtakachaya vinyaaso yaavantyaabdaani tishthati,

taadvarsha sahasraani tatkarturdivi samsthitih /

Pratimaakrud Vishnu lokam sthaapako leeyatey Harou,

Devasadyaprati kruti pratishthaakruttu gocharey

(The person who constructed the Temple should reside in Swarga for so many years as the totality of bricks used in it. He who made the Pratima would attain ‘Vishnuloka’and he who made the temple and established the Pratima would live in that loka forever!)   

After Agni Deva quoted Yama Dharma Raja about the far-reaching results of Temple Construction warning Yama dootas not to reach any where near those devotees who constructed Places of Worship, Bhagavan Hayagriva addressed Lord Brahma about the methodology of ‘Deva Pratishtha’in the Temples and enumerated twenty five ‘Tantras’ utilised in the process of ‘Pratishtha’or setting up the Devas; these Tantras are Aadi Hayasirsha Tantra, Trilokya mohana Tantra, Vaibhava Tantra, Pushkara Tantra, Prahlada Tantra, Gaargya Tantra, Gaalava Tantra, Naradiya Tantra, Shri Praschantra, Shalindya Tantra, Ishwara Tantra, Satya Tantra, Shounaka Tantra, Vasishthokta Jnaana Saagara Tantra, Swaayambhuva Tantra, Kapila Tantra, Taakshya (Garuda) Tantra, Naarayaneeya Tantra, Aagneya Tantra, Narasimha Tantra, Ananda Tantra, Aaruna Tantra, Bodhaayana Tantra, Ashtaanga Tantra, and Vishwa Tantra. Bhagavan Hayagriva explained the implications of ‘Deva Sthapana’as per Vaastu Shastra and decide the Placement of the Idols to be installed in the specified Temples.Then the procedure of ‘Shila Nyasa’ was described; for instance, a ‘Mandapa’has to be constructed first, then four ‘Kundas’be planned; Kumbha Nyasa or Kalasha Sthapana and Ishtikaa Nyasa be performed; Dwara and Sthambha construction be taken up; relevant Homas be executed with ‘Adhara’ and ‘Aajya bhaga’ Ahutis.  ‘Kalasha Sthapana’or installation of Kalashas (vessels) viz. Padma, Maha Padma, Makara, Kacchapa, Kumuda, Ananda, Padma and Shankha would be followed.  ‘Ishtika Sthapana’ (installation of bricks), cleaning of ‘Vaastu Kundas’ with cow’s urine, ‘Kunda Garbha Sthapana’, filling up the Kunda with bricks, construction of ‘Devaalaya Praasaad’ or the area around the ‘Temple’s Garbha’, Installation of ‘Deva Pratimas’, ‘Bhuta Shanti’, Shalagrama Vigraha Puja, ‘Pratima Lakshana’or features of the Idols and the Stotras of the Deities to be installed, ‘Adhiva -asan’ or ‘Saannithya -karana’ or straight-facing the devotees; ‘Avabhruta Snaanaas’ of the installed Deities, ‘Dwara Pratishtha’or installation of doors, ‘Dwaja -aropana’ot the hoisting of the Temple Flag ; digging of wells / water bodies in the Temple Region; ‘Griha Pravesha’, welcome to ‘Go-maata’into the ‘Devaalaya Praangana’(Temple surroundings), installation of  saplings of trees and of  Utsava Deities for ‘Parikramana’(taking the Deities around the Temple), ‘Bhojana Samaaraathana’ to devotees and multifarious other activities including setting up daily Puja activities in the morning through the Temple closures are all to be organised with the full back-up of Mantras.

While the above is a general frame work of Temple Construction, the procedure and back up of Mantras is more focussed as relevant to specified Deities viz Shiva, Vishnu, Devis, Vishnu’s Avataras, Gajaanana, Subramanya, Surya, etc. along with the features of the Idols, postures of being seated, or standing, or resting; details of hands and ornamentation, accompanying consorts etc

10irtha Mahatmya

Yasya hastoucha paadou cha manaschaiva susamyatam/

V idya tapascha kirtischa sa Tirtha phalamshrutey,

pratigrahaadupaavruttho laghvaahaaro jitendriyah/

Nishpaapas tirthayaatri tu sarva yagnaphlam labhet,

Anuposhya triraatreena Tirthaanyanabhi gamya cha/

Adatvaa kaanchanam Gaascha Daridro naama jayate,

Tirthaabhi gamaney tatasyaadyadyajnaanenaashyatey phalam/

(That sinless Tirtha Yatri whose hands, feet and heart are well-regulated and that person’s Vidya (learning), Tapasya (strength of meditation) and wide fame are well- recognised should be able to reap the fruits of performing Yagnas. That person who had not peformed fasts for three nights, nor gave away charity of gold and cows; nor is even undertaken Tirtha Yatras must be considered as a Daridra (Pauper). The fruits of Tirha Yatras would excel those of Yagnaas too.

Pushkar:  is an important ‘Tirtha’, where Lord Brahma is stated to take baths along with Indra and Devas. Performance of Pujas to Devas, Shraadhhas and Tarpanas to Pitaras and daanas to learned Brahmanas especially on Purnima day in the month of ‘Kartika’ bestows the ‘Punya’ of Ashwamedha Yagna and achivement of Brahma loka. Jambu Marg and Tandulik Ashram are the holy Tirthas nearby. Other significant Tirthas include Kanvaashrama, Koti Tirtha, Narmada and Arbuda (Mount Abu). Charmanvati (Chambal), Sindhu, Somnath, Prabhasa, Sarasvati-Sagara Sangam, are also notable Titrhas. Pindaraka Kshetra, Dwaraka and Gomati are sacred Places.    

 Kurukshetra is another Holy Spot, frequented by Lord Vishnu and others. It is believed that the dust of this Kshetra assures ‘Parama Gati’ The entire region where the River Ganga  flows is sacred; those who view the River, touch it, drink its holy water or even pronounce its name and chant its ‘Mahima’are purified along with previous generations.        

Prayaga, the point of confluence of three rivers-Ganga, Yamuna and the under-ground river Saraswati -is a sacred place where Brahma, Vishnu, Indra, and many other Gods are present, besides Pitru Devatas (fore- fathers) await offerings from their offspring. Three baths at ‘Prayaga’ during the month of ‘Magha’ are considered equal to a passage to Brahmalok after one’s departure from Life. This sacred Place is stated to be the personification of Vedas and Yagnaas. Chanting the Mahatmya of Prayaga or even feel its Earth are stated to be the demolisher of sins. At this unique Tirtha, ‘Pitru Karyas’ viz. Shraddhaas and Tarpanas along with ‘daanaas’ would yield far-reaching fruits.                     

   Varanasi: Lord Shiva told Parvathi that He would never like to leave Varanasi; the Holy Ganges confluencing with two Rivers, viz. Varana and Asi. Parama Shiva confirmed to Devi Gauri that her had never left the Place (‘Avi’ + ‘Mukta’) and was ever-present there. Deeds including ‘Snaan’, Japa, Homa, Deva Pujana, Shraaddha, Daana, Nivaasa (residing) and Mrityu (death) are expected to yield far-reaching benefits. Eight most illustrious Tirthas viz. Harischandra, Aamraatakeswar, Japeshwara, Shri Parvat, Mahalaya, Bhrigu, Chandeshwar, and Kedara Tirtha are all hidden in this Avimukta Kshetra.           

There are several other sacred places dotted all over in the Karma Bhumi of Bharat, especially where rivers flow. But Gaya is stated to be an outstanding holy spot for reasons more than one. Gayasura, a King of Rakshasas did fierce meditation of which Devas were afraid. Vishnu appeared before Gayasura and granted a boon to him that the latter should be the most Sacred Thirtha. As Vihnu granted the wish, all the human beings and Daityas had the darshan of Gayasura and reached Vaikuntha. Thus Devas and human beings did not have to pray none else but at Gaya. Brahma and Devas approached Vishnu and the latter advised the former to approach Gayasura to let him perform Yagna on the Asura’s body. Gayasura agreed and Brahma performed the Yagna on his head. At the time of ‘Purnaahuti’or the climax of the Yagna, the Asura bacame shaky and was trying to wriggle out from the Fire-Pit; Vishnu advised Yama Dharma Raja to keep a very heavy stone on the Asura’s body and let all the Devas occupy his body; so that the Asura could not wriggle out at the time of the Purnahuti. Yama Dharma Raja fetched that stone which was the same that got materialised as a result of a curse given by Maharshi Marichi to his wife  called Dharmavrata;  she disregarded Maharshi’s order to press his legs as he slept off, but Brahma arrived meanwhille and she disturbed the Maharshi’s sleep and hence the curse. Dharmavrata gave a return curse to Marichi to face Shiva’s curse to him eventually since after all she was confused whether to welcome Brahma, the father of Marichi or to obey Marichi’s instruction. She kept aside the curse in the form of the stone and entered Agni to perform Tapasya for thousands of years. As Vishnu was pleased, he decided to turn the curse as an advantage to her as the stone was blessed with the foot prints of all the Devas and thus set it against the huge body of Gayasura and thus would by famous as the Devashila, Sarva Deva Swarupa, Sarva Tirtha mayi and the Punya shila. But even after placing the Shila on the Asura’s body with the feet of all the Devas there on, the Asura was still breathing and hence Vishnu had to keep his ‘Gada’(mace) to fully sniff him out  by adding his own presence to the Place.Thus the Tirtha has the paramount significance due to its association with Brahma’s Yagna on the forehead of Gadasura, with the footprints of all the Devas, the memorable stone of Satyavrata and finally the presence of Lord Vishnu himself by the Adi Gada which was originally the backbone of Gadaasura killed by Vishnu and turned into a Gada by Viswakarma the Architect of Devas! It is this most Sacred Tirtha where till date ‘Shraddhas’ are performed. There are no restrictions of time or day to perform Shraaddhas at Gaya. It is believed that ‘Pitras’celebrate when the sons decide to travel for Gaya. Brahma Jnaanam Gayaa shraaddham Gogruhey maranam tathaa, Vaasam pumsaam Kurukshethrey muktireshaa chaturvidhaa/ (The four major means of attaining ‘Mukti’ are Brahma Gyan, Shraddha performed at Gaya, death in a Goshaala, and residence at Kurukshetra.) The aspiration of Pitaras is that their progeny would arrive at Gaya to perform Shraaddha so that they could be redeemed! The Shraddhas at Gaya are ‘Nava Devaatmak’viz. father, grand father, great grand father, mother, grand mother and great grand mother, father’s mother, father’s grand mother and father’s great grand mother.

11.                     Description of Bhuvan Kosha

Earth is stated to be spread over seventy thousand yojanas with a height of ten thousand yojanas. (Yojana is 15km. approx). Underneath the Earth are stated to be seven underground worlds with ten thousand yojanas each viz. Atala, Vitala, Nitala, Mahatala, Sutala, Talatala and Rasatala /Patala. These Patalas are described as of black, yellow, red, white, stony, kankar (brownish sediment) or gold colours. Underneath the Patalas is surmised as Sesha Nag or Ananta Deva holding the entire weight of Earth. It is further stated that some one lakh yojanas higher than Earth is Surya Mandala.; some one lakh yojanas above the Surya Mandala is the Chandra Mandala from where Nakshatras shine about a lakh yojanas there-beyond. The Planet of Budha (Mercury) is two lakh yojanas higher than that of the Nakshatras. The planet of Shukra (Venus) is two lakh yojanas above that of Budha. Mangal is two lakh above Sukra and like-wise two lakhs each are Brihaspati (Jupiter) and Shanaischara above each other. Saptarshi loka is situated one lakh yojanas from that of Saturn and Dhruva loka is further up by one more lakh yojanas. Thus Dhruva is the ultimate of ‘Bhurbhuvah Swaha’or the highest point of Thee Lokas, beyond Earth. Some one crore yojanas beyond Dhruva is ‘Maharloka’where Siddha ganas like ‘Kalpaanta jeevi’ Bhrigu. ‘Janaloka’ is situated two crore yojanas above Maharloka resided by Sanaka, Sanandana, Sanaatana and Sanat Kumaras and Siddha Purushas like the Sanaka brothers stay. Eight crore yojanas above the Jana loka is ‘Tapoloka’where Devatas reside. Some nintysix crore yojanas far beyond Tapoloka is the Satya loka or Brahma loka. From Bhulok to Surya Mandala is known as Bhuvar loka and from Surya loka to Dhruva loka is called Swargaloka which is of fifteen lakh yojana area. This region is popularly called the place where Brahmanda was cut, from where the ‘Pancha Bhutas’of ‘Prithivyaapastejovaayurakaasas’got materialised. Around all these is said to spread ‘Ahamkar’which created Maha Tatwa and Prakriti and far away from these manifestations is the Unique Paramatma of ‘Vyaktaavyata’ Supreme Being.                Surya Deva’s Chariot has a length of nine thousand yojanas and width of double the size, has seven horses named after seven ‘Chandaas’ viz. Gayatri, Brihati, Ushnik, Jagati, Trishthup, Anushthup and Pankti; and is responsible for denoting ‘Samvatsaras; ‘Ayanas’, Ritis (seasons), months, days and nights. The view of ‘Sishumara’ or the dolphin like group of planets and Stars which is some thirteen lakh yojanas away on the sky is stated to be the Swarupa of Vishnu Himself, with Dhruva at the tail which is self-revolving and rotating Chandra, Surya and other planets. The Chariot of Surya visions every month the Maharshis in various lokas, Gandharvas, Apsaras, Yakshas, etc besides being the embodiment of Vedas and the ‘Pratyakta Deva’percievable to the entire Srishti of the Super Lord’s making. Similarly the chariots of Chandra and other planets were described by Agni Deva: Chandra has a tricycled chariot with ten horses moving freely among the nakshatra lokas. Agni Deva informed Sage Vasishtha that as many as 30,333        Devatas enjoyed Chandra’s nector-like ‘Kalas’; for example, on Amavasya day, Pitrugana were able to enjoy one ‘Rashmi’(moon ray) called ‘Ama’and were able absorb to only two ‘kalas’. Budha’s chariot is made of Vayu and Agni with eight horses; Shukra has an eight horsed chariot, like in the case of Brihaspati and Shanaischara as well as Rahu and Ketu. Prithvi comprises Seven Dwipas surrounded by Seven Oceans, the Dwipas being Jambu, Plaksha, Shalmali, Kusha, Krouncha, Shaka and Pushkara. The Oceans are Lavana, Ikshu, Sura, Ghrita, Dadhi and Jala. Jambu Dwipa in which Bharat is situated surrounded with salty water and is popular as ‘Karma Bhumi!’

12    ‘Aashrama/ Varna Dharmas’

Agni Deva quoted Mahatma Pushkar having preached Parashu Rama about the Varna and Ashrama Dharmas. The common Principles of Dharma applicable to all human beings of irrespective of the ‘Chatur Varnas’ include Ahimsa (Non-violence), Satya Bhashan (Truth), Daya (Kindness), ‘Anugraha’   Mercy), Tirthha Yatras (Visit to Holy Places), ‘Matsaraabhaava’ (freedom from jealousy) , Daan (Charity), Brahmacharya (celibacy), Seva (Service to Devas, Gurus and Brahmanas), Para Dharma Samata (respect to other Dharmas/ religions), Pitru Puja ( worship to Pitras), Bhakti (Devotion to Paramatma), Shastra Pathana (Reading Scriptures), Kruraraavaabhaava ( absence of cruelty / vindictiveness), Sahanasheelata ( tolerance) and Astikata ( faith/ conviction). The Dharmas of ‘Brahmanas’ include performance of Yagnas ane enabling them to perform, accepting daanaas, Vedaadhyana and preaching of Vedas. The duties of Khatriyas is administration and defence, enforcing and observing Dharma, charity and enabling Yagnas and noble deeds, and punishing the wicked and non-virtuous

13    ‘Aachaara Varnana’ (Description of Traditions)

Mahatma Pushkar addressed Parashurama that every human being should get up early morning at ‘Brahma muhurtha’ and pray to Vishnu/Shiva/Shakti and after morning abutions perform the six types of ‘Snaanaas’viz. ‘Nitya’, ‘Naimittika’, ‘Kaamya’, ‘Kriyaanga’, ‘Malakarshana’ and ‘Kriya’. Water from ground-wells is pure enough, water-stream is better, Sarovar water is much better, River water is further better, water from Tirthas is far better and Ganga water is the best of all. The person concerned would bathe in the water for a while cleaning the body and commence reciting the three Ruchas viz.

Hiranya varnaa shuchah paavakaayaa sujatah Kashyapoyaasvidrah etc,

Sham no Devirabheeeshtayey etc and Aapohishtha mayo bhuvah etc.

Then the Mantra: Ida maapam etc. to be followed by Drupadaadivamunchatu etc. ‘Purusha Suktam’ saying Sahasra Sirshah Purushah etc. may be recited and Gayatri Mantra be repeated as many times as possible. After the bath and wearing clean ‘Vastra yugma’ (two clothings), perform Sandhya Vandana, Pitru Tarpana, Agnihotra homa and complete surrender to Maha Deva. Pushkar reiterated certain obvious dos and don’ts to Parashurama for the awareness of posterity: Never look straight to Surya Deva at the Sunrise and Sunset timings. Never see one’s own reflection in water. Never look intently at a naked woman, or into a well or at a place of murder or the face of a murderer. Never enter the interior room of others nor their treasure room. Never be a messenger to anybody. Never enter a shaky boat, tree or elevation. Keep sustained interest in one’s own household, money matters and Shastras. Do not create sounds from one’s own body parts except by way of hand-claps. Never travel or move about without light. Never enter a house excepting through specified doors. Never tamper with natural colour of one’s own face. Never ever hurt anybody’s feelings; in fact make it a point to say : ‘ be happy, be happy! but never ever utter undesirable sayings to others. Never exchange clothes of others. Never pass through two respected persons. Never look up Sun, Moon and Stars with disrespect or mischief. Never praise a river being in another river. After entering a River, never leave without prayers to ‘Ishta devatas’ and if possible perform pitru tarpana. Never pollute any water body, nor take bath fully naked. Never reside at a Place where there is to Vaidya, King or his representative, and a River or Waterbody. Never converse with a woman in menses or with a fallen woman for long. Never cough or yawn or sneeze without covering face with a piece of cloth. Keep the information under wraps about the insult to self or own’s own well wishers. Never criticise Scriptures, Vedas, Kings, Rishis, and Devas. On the days coinciding with one’s own Birth Stars, pray to Chandra the Swami of the Nakshatras and perform noble deeds including Daanas to Brahmanas and Annadanaas to the needy and the Poor. Avoid oil-baths on Shashthi, Ashtami and Chaturdashi. Never express excessive disliking or liking to woman. Be always keep one’s emotions and passions under control and never forget or ignore the Almighty

14    Dreams and Omens

A fairly detailed analysis of dreams and Omens is provided in Agni Purana. Dreams are good when they involve mountains, palaces, snakes, riding horses or bulls, white flowers, trees, possession of arms and many heads, triumphs in wars, wearing garlands or clothes, witnessing eclipses, Stars, Sun or Moon, eating rice pudding, drinking wine or blood, eating meat,milking cows, buffalos, blessings from Devas, Brahmanas, coronation, one’s own death or cutting off head, one’s own house burning, playing musical instruments, climbing trees, clear skies, wet clothes and so on. Bad dreams are a shaven head of one’s own, wearing shabby clothes, drinking oil, house collapse, angry Gods or Brahmanas, falling from above, killing snakes or animals, playing with monkeys, weddings, singing and so on.  Prayers to Vishnu, or Shiva or Ganesha or Surya would appease bad dreams, while good dreams should enable the dreamer to make them true if the person discontinues sleeping.

Good Omens: Good omens while leaving house are facing white flowers, full vessels, meat, distant sounds, goat, cow, horse, elephant, fire, gold, silver, sword, umbrella, fruits, butter or curd, sugarcane, sound of thunder, lightning, dead body without anybody crying, donkey’s braying; buffallo crossing from left to right; horse, cats, donkeys, from right to left; crows near door or with mud, or a dog with meat in mouth and so on. Bad omens are facing cotton, dry grass, cowdung, coal, leather, hair, a lunatic, chandala, widow, ashes, bones, sound of musical instruments, break down of vehicle, fall of umbrella on head, recall back before journey and so on.’

15    ‘Paapa naashaka Stotra’

When a human being is smitten by sins like ‘Parastree gamana’ (illicit relations with other’s women), ‘Paraswaapaharana’ (robbing the belongings of others) and ‘Jeeva himsa’ (brutality against various Beings), then ‘Prayaschitta’ (penance) is said to be the recitation of the following ‘Stuti’ (tribute) to Vishnu Deva:

                                                                                                                              Vishnavey Vishnavey nityam Vishnavey namah,

Namaami Vishnum Chithasthamahamkaaragatih Harim/

Chitasthameeshamavyakta manantamaparijitam,

Vishnumeedyamaseshana Ananda nidhanam Vibhum/

Vishnuschagato yanmey Vishnu buddhi gatascha yat,

Yacchaahamkaarago Vishnuryadvishnur -mayi  samshitah/

Karoti Karma bhutesou sthaavarasya charasyacha,

Tat paapam naashamaayaatu tasmitreva hi chintatatey/

Dhaato harati yat Paapam   swapney drushtastu bhaavanaat,

Tamupendra -maham Vishnum Pranamaami Paraatparam/

Sarwasvareswara Vibho Paramaatma Trijdhokshajah,

Hrishikesha Hrishikesha Hrishikesha namostutey/

Nrisimhaananta Govinda Bhutabhaavana Keshava,

Duruktam dushkrutam dhyatam Shaamaaagham namostutey/

Yanmaya chintitam drushtam  Swachinta -vasha  vartinaa,

Akaarya Mahadatyugram tavacchimam naya Keshava/

Brahmanya Deva Govida Paramartha paraayana,

Jagannatha Jagatbhaatah Paapa prashama achyutam/

Yathaapaharney Saayaahney Madhyaahnecha tatha nishi,

Kaayena Manasaa Vaachaa kritam paapamajaanataa/

Jaanataacha Hrishikesha Pundarikaakshah Madhava,

Naamatrotyatchaaranatah Paapam yaau mama kshayam/

Shareeram mey Hrishikesha Pundareekaaksha Madhava,

Paapam prashamayaadya twam Vaakaritham mama Maadhava/  

Yadbhunjana yat Swapamstisthan gacchaan jaagrad yadashitaha,

Kritavaan paapamadyaaham kaayena manasaa giraa/

Yat swalpamapi yat sthuulam kuyoni narakaavaham,

tad yaatu prashamam sarvam Vaasudevaanu keertinaat/

Param Brahma Param dhaama pavitram paramamcha yat,

Tasmin prakeertitey Vishnou yat paapam tat pranashyatu/

Yat praapya na nivartantey gandhasprashaadi varjitam,

Surayastah sarvam shamatvagham/

( Sarva Vyapi Vishnu! My salutations to you. Srihari Vishnu! My greetings to you. I pray to that Vishnu who is all-pervasive, selfless and firmed up in my heart. I implore that Vishnu who is fully radiant in my Soul and who is Unknown, Everlasting, and Unconquerable. My earnest veneration to the awe-inspiring, all powerful and ageless Paramatma who is far above the beginnings and finalities! Vishnu is steeped in my heart; Vishnu is the illumination of my ‘Antaratma’or in my inner-consciousness; Vishnu is my self-image! May that Vishnu who is the under-current of ‘Charaachara praanis’ or the Moveable and Immoveable Beings demolish my sins with his benevolence! To those devotees who meditate to him with sincerity, their blemishes are destroyed; the griefs under his protection are flattened and he appears before them in their dreams. It is he who extends his hand in this utterly supportless world full of darkness and gloom and to that manifestation of singular optimism that I urge upon for that succor. My homage to you Sarveswara! Vibho! Hrishikesha! Hrishikesha! Hrishikesha! Nrisimha! Ananta! Govinda! The Originator of the Universe! Kindly condone the sinful words and deeds of mine. Whatever mindless thoughts and evil conversations that I have made may be dissolved. You are the bench-mark of ‘Maryada’ (graciousness) and embodiment of mercy, Jagannatha! My prayers are to uplift me from the low levels of ignorance and viciousness and being the Creator and Preserver of the Srishti, pardon my hopeless sins and accept my assurances not to repeat my indiscretions in future. I might have committed sins in the mornings, afternoons, evenings and nights, whether knowingly or forgetfully; physically, mentally or by way of conversation; may all these transgressions be wiped out by my mere utterances of the three sacred names of yours viz.  Pundarikaksha, Hrishikesha and Madhava.  What ever sins of mine that were perpetrated while eating, sleeping, standing, moving about, or fully awaken by way of thought, deed or vocal means-be it a small or huge proportion-be rescinded. Oh Vasudeva! Parabrahma! Paramadhama! Parama Pavitra! May my offenses be revoked by my singing of holy hymns of your propitious names. May Maha Vishnu from whom Jnaanis and Yogis never return after attaining him and who is devoid of, and untouched by, Tanmatras like smell, touch and vision cancel all my wrong doings.)                                                                                                                     

Paapa pranaashanam strotram yah patheycchrunuyaadapi,

Sharirai maanasair vaagvijaih krutaaih paapaihi pramuchyatey/ Sarvapaapagrahaadibhyo yaati padam,

Tasmaat Paapey krutey japyamStotram Sarvaaghamardinam/ Praayaschittamaghaudhaanaa stotram vratakrutey varam,

Praayaschitthaih stotra japairvratarnashyati paatakam/  

(Those persons who aim at destroying sins should read or atleast hear the above ‘Stotra’ so that they would surely get rid of all kinds of sins committed by physical, mental or vocal means as also free from the severities of ‘Paapa Grahaas’ and accomplish ‘Vishnu Paramapada’. Thus this Stotra is a panacea and an effective ‘Prayaschitta’ (atonemnt) for a multitude of sins. Hence to attain the siddhis of ‘Bhogas’ (enjoyments) and Moksha (Salvation), this golden ‘Stotra’be recited with sincerity)