Hindu Vedic Philosophy (Puranas)

5       Devastation of Daksha Yagna and humiliation of Daksha

(Daksha’s Prayer to Maha Deva as ‘Shiva Sahasranama’ included)

At the time of the wedding of Uma Devi and Mahadeva, Brahma extolled Parama Shiva as follows:

Namah Parvata Lingaaya Parvatesaayatey Namah,

Pavanavegaaya Virupaa yaajitaayacha/

Namah klesa vinaashaaya Daatrey cha Shubha sampadaam,

Namo Nila Sikhandaaya Ambikaa pataye Namah/

Namo Bhairava rupaaya virupa nayanaayacha,

Namah Sahasra netraaya Sahasra charanaaya cha/

Namo Deva vayasyaaya vedaangaaya Namo namah,

Vishthambhanaaya Shakrasya baahvor vedaamkuraacha/

Charaacharaayapataye shamanaaya Namo namah,

Namah Kapaala maalaaya Kapaalasutra dhaariney/

Namah kapaala hastaaya Dandney Gadiney Namah,

Namah-strailokya nadhhaya Pasuloka rataayacha/

Namah khatvaanga hastaaya Pramataarthi Haraayacha,

Namo Yagna shiro hastrey Krishna keshaapahaariney/

Bhaganetra nipaataaya Pushnordanta Haraayacha,

Namah Pinaakashulaasi khadga mudgara dhaaniney/

Namostu Kaala Kaalaaya Triteeyanayanaayacha/

Antakaanta kriteychaiva Namah Parvatavaasiney/

Suvarna retasey chaiva namah Kundala dhaariney,

Daityaanaam Yogha naashaaya Yoginaam Guravey namah/

Shashaankaaditya netraaya Lalaata nayanaayacha,

Namah Smashaana rataey Smashaana vadadaayacha/

Namo Daivata naathaaya Triambikaaya Namo namah,

Grihasta saadhavey nityamjatiney Brahmachaariney/

Namo Mundaardha Mundaaya Pashunaam pataey namah/

Saliley Tapyamaanaaya Yogaiswarya pradaayacha/

Namo Shaantaaya daantaaya Pralayotpatti kaariney,

Namonugraha kartreycha Stithikartrey Namonamah/

Namo Rudraaya vasava Adityaayaashviney namah,

Namah Pitreytha Saamkhyaaya Vishvedevaaya vai namah/

Namah Sharvaaya Ugraaya Shivaaya Varadaayacha,

Namo Bheemaaya Senaanye Pashunaam Patayenamah/

Shuchaye Vairihaanaaya Sadyojaataaya vain amah,

MahaaDevaaya Chitraaya Vichitraaya cha vai namah/

Pradhaayaaprameyaaya Karyaaya Kaaranaayacha,

Purushaaya namastestu Purushoyaachha karaayacha/

Namah Purusha samyoga Pradhaana guna kaariney,

Pravartakaaya Prakruteyh Purushasya cha Sarvashah/

Krutaa krutasya Satkartrey Phala Samyogadaaya cha,

Kaalajnaaya cha Sarveshaam Namo Niyama kaariney/

Namo Vaishamya kartrecha gunaanaam vritti daayacha,

Namastey  Deva Devesah, Namastey Bhutabhaavanah/

Shiva Sowmya mukhodrushtam Bhava Sowmyohi nah Prabho!

(Our salutations to Maha Deva who has the Form of Parvata Linga / Mountain like Linga and Parvateswara / the Supreme of Mountains whose speed is like that of Wind; whose Form is Fearful and Invincible, the instant demolisher of all difficulties; and bestower of prosperity; the adorner of blue clothing Ambikapati with wind as his Form and of myriad Swarupas with thousand eyes and feet; the Deva Deva, Vedanga Swarupa; the Supreme Lord of Charaachara or the Mobile/ Immobile Creation ; the Wearer of Skulls as garlands and by his hands; the Lord of Trilokas; the Khatvaanga Hasta or he who holds an expurgated part of his body by his hand; the reliever of the difficulties of Pramathaganas; the  Yagna Swarupa; Krishna Keshaapaharini; Bhaganetra Hara; Pinakashula-Asi-Khadga-Mudgara Dhaarini; Kaalaa Kaalaa, Triteeya Netraa, Anatakaantakrita, Parvata Vaasa; Daityanaashaaya; Chandra-Surya Netra; Forehead long Eyed Deity;   the Playful Resident of Smashaans or burial grounds bestowing boons as the Three Eyed Deveshwara; Triambakaaya; the much married Grihasti yet practising Brahmacharya or bachelorhood; Mundaartha Mundaaya; Pashupati; Yogeswarya Pradaaya;  the Great Meditator inside water; the Provider of Wealth by way of Yoga; the  Controller of  Indrias or of Physical limbs; the Great Energy responsible for Creation and Decadence; the Symbol of Kindness providing for Universal Preservation ; Shankara! You have several formulations like Ekaadasha Rudras, Ashtaa Vasus, Dwadasha Adityas, and two Ashvini Kumars; You are the Father of all Lokaas; Sankhya described by Sankha Purusha; Viswadeva, Sharva, Ugra, Shiva, Varada, Bhima, Senaani, Pashupati, Shuchi, Vairahanta, Sadyo jaata, Mahadeva, Chitra, Vichitra, Pradhaana, Aprameya, Karya and Kaarana / The Cause and  the Causation; the Purusha and Prakriti and the Provider of Trigunas; the provider of results of kruta kaaryas or tasks performed / karma phalas; Kaala jnaaya; Niyama kaariney or the Enforcer of Regulations; Prabho Deva Devesha!)

      

Pursuant to the wedding of Sati Devi with Maha Deva, Daksha Prajapati developed dislike for Parama Shiva which evolved into hatred as the son-in law was always on the move as a ‘digambara’/ uncovered and nude in the company of frightening Pramatha ganaas, Bhuta-Preta-Piscachaas and resided in ‘Smashanaas’, Mountain Caves and such disgusting Places. But Devi Sati was indeed aware that Maha Deva was the Supreme and Unique! Once while noticing that several Devas and their consorts were flying away by their chariots and other means of transport to attend Daksha Yagna, Devi Parvati felt small as to why he was not invited and Mahadeva explained that he did not have any role since he was not to get a portion of the offerings in the Homa; however Daksha ought to have invited him as he was indeed the Yagna Swami and all the Devas, Danavas, Yakshas, Gandharvas and all the Beings in the Universe take pains to please him. Thus Bhagavan Shankara made an angry frown and a massive fire was materialized that created a ferocious Bhadrakaali in the Form of an aggressive and powerful lioness who was instructed to destroy Daksha Yagna. Simultaneously he recalled Veerabhadra from the Smashaana Bhumi (Burial Ground) with the same instruction and the latter created a multitude of Rudra Ganaas who all charged the Yagna and wrecked it totally. As Devas, Rishis and all the guests ran away out of fright, a highly shaken up Daksha Prajapati who was humiliated and demoralized begged of mercy from Virabhadra who ordered him to run upto Shiva’s refuge only. The frightened Daksha ran up to Maha Deva and prostrated before him while sobbing and praying to him as follows:

Namastey Deva Devesha Namastyendhaka -sudana,

Devendratwam Balashreshtha Deva Daanava Pujita/

Sahasraaksha Virupaksha Tryaksha Yagnaadhipapriya,

Sarvatah Paanipaadastwam Sarvatokshishiromukhah/

Sarvatah Shrutimaamllokey Sarvamaavrutya tishthasi,

Shankha karno Mahakarnah Kumbhakarnornavaalayah/

Gajendra karno Gokarnah Shatakarno Namostutey,

Shatodarah Shataavartah Shata jimvah Sanaatanah/

Gaayanti twaam Gayatrino archantyantyarkamarkinah,

Deva Daanava goptaa cha Brahma cha twam Shatakratuh/

Murtimaamstwam Mahaamurthih Samudrah sarasaam nidhih,

Twayi Sarvaa Devataahi gaavo goshtha ivaasatey/

Twattah  Shareerey pashyaami Somamagnim jaleswaram,

Adityamatha Vishnum cha Bramhaanam sa Bruhaspatim/

Kriyaa Karana Kaaryecha Kartaa Kaaranameyvacha,

Asaccha Sadasacchaiva tathaiva Prabhavaapyayou/

Namo Bhavaaya Sharvaaya Rudraaya Varadaayacha,

Pashunaam Patayechaiva Namostwandhaka ghaatiney/

Trijataaya Triseershaaya Trishulavara dhaariney,

Triambakaaya Trinetraaya Tripuraghnaaya vai namah/

Namaschandaaya Mundaaya Vishwachandadharaayacha,

Dandiney Shankha karnaaya Dandi Dandaaya vai namah/

Namordha Chandikeshaaya Shushkaaya Vikrutaaya cha,

Vilohitaaya Dhumraaya Nilagreevaaya vai namah/

Namostwapratirupaaya Virupaaya Shivaayacha,

Suryaaya Surya pataye Suryadhwaja pataakiney/

Namah Pramatha naashaaya Vrushaskandhaaya vai namah,

Namo Hiranyagarbhaaya Hiranya kavachaaya cha/

Hiranya krutachudaaya Hiranyapataye namah,

Shatru ghaataaya Chandaaya Parna shankhashayaacha/

Namah stutaaya stutaye stuuyamaanaaya Vai namah,

Sarvaaya Sarva bhakshaaya Sarva bhutaantaraatmaney/

2) Namo homaaya Mantraaya Shukla dhwaja pataakiney,

Namonmayaaya Nyaayaaya Namah Kilikilaaya cha/

Namastwaam shamaanaaya shayitaayotthitaaya cha,

Sthitaaya Daavamaanaaya kubjaaya kutilaaya cha/

Namo nartana sheelaaya Mukhavaaditra kaariney,

Badhaapahaaya Lubdhaaya Geetavaaditra kaariney/

Namo Jyeshthaaya Shreshthaaya Balapramadha -naayacha,

Ugraaya cha Namo Nityam Namascha Dashabaahavey/

Namah Kapaala hastaaya sita bhasma priyaayacha,

Vibhishanaaya Bhimaaya Bhishma Vrata dharaaya cha/

Naanaa Vikruta Vaktraaya Khadga jimhogra damshtriney,

Paksha maasa lavaarthaaya Tumbi Veenaapriyaayacha/

Aghora ghora rupaaya Ghoraaghora taraaya cha,

Namah Shivaaya Shantaaya Namah Shantatamaaya cha/

Namo Buddhhaya Shuddhaaya Samvibhaaga Priyaaya cha,

Pavanaaya Patangaaya Namah Saankhya -paraaya cha/

Namaschandaika ghantaaya Ghanataajalpaaya Ghantiney,

Sahasrashata ghantaaya Ghanataa maalaa priyaya cha/

Pranadandaaya Nityaaya Namastey Lohitaaya cha,

Humhumkaaraaya Rudraaya Bhagaakaara priyaayacha/

3) Namopaaravatey Nityam Girivrikshapriyayacha,

Namo Yagnaadhipataey Bhutaaya Prastutaayacha/

Yagnavaahaaya Daantaaya Tathyaayacha Bhagaayacha,

Namastataaya Tatyaaya Taatinipataye namah/

Annadaayaannapataey Namastwanna bhujaayacha,

Namah Sahasrasheershaaya Sahasracharanaayacha/

Sahasrodyutashulaaya Sahasra nayanaayacha,

Namo Baalaarkavarnaaya Balarupa dharaayacha/

Namo Baalaarka rupaaya Kaalakreedanakaaya cha,

Namah Shudhhaaya Buddhaaya Kshobhanaaya kshayaaya cha/

Tarangingita Keshaaya Muktakeshaaya vai n amah,

 Namah Shatkarma nishtaaya Trikarma niyataayacha/

Varnaashramaanaam Vidhivatpruthagdharma pravartiney,

Namah Sreshthaaya Jyeshthaaya Namah Kalakalaayacha/

Sweta pingala netraaya Krishnaraktekshananaayacha,

Dharma kaamaartha mokshaaya krathaaya krathanaayacha/

Sankhyaaya Sankhya mukhyaaya yogaadhipataye namah,

Namo Rathyaadhirathyaaya chatushpatha pathaayacha/

4) Krishnaajinottareeyaaya Vyaala Yagnopaveetiney,

Ishaana Rudrasanghaata Harikesha Namostutey/

Thrayambikaayaambikaanaatha Vyaktaavyakta Namostutey,

Kaalakaamada kaamaghna dushtodvrittha nishudana/

Sarvagarhita Sarvaghna Sadyojaata  Namostutey,

Unmaadana shataavarta Gangaatoyaadra murdhajah/

Chandraadha samyugaavardha meghaavarta namostutey,

Namonnadaanakartrey cha Annadaprabhavey Namah/

Anna bhoktrecha goptrey cha twameva Pralayaanala,

Jaraayujaandajaaschaiva swedajod -bhijja eva cha/

Twameva Deva Devesha Bhutaagraschaturvidhah,

Charaacharasrashtaa twam pratihartaa twameva cha/

Twameva Brahmaa Vishwesha Apsu Brahmavadantitey,

Sarvasya Paramaa yonih Shuddhaamsho Jyotishaam nidhih/

Ruksaamaani Tathongkaara –maahustwaam Brahmavaadinah,

Haai haayi Harey Haayi huvaahaaveti vaasa krut/

Gaayantitwaam Surasreshthaah Saamaga Brahma vaadinah,

Yajurmaya Rungmayascha Saamaatharva yutastathaa/

Pathyasey Brahmavaadbhistwaam ganaih,

Brahmanaah Kshatriyaa Vaishyaaha Shudraa Varnaaschamaascha ye/

Twamevaashrama sanghascha Vidyustanitamevacha,

Samvatsaraswamrutavo maasaa maasaartha mevecha/

Kalaa kaashthaa nimeshaascha Nakshatraani yugaanicha,

Vrishaanaam Kakudam twam hi gireenaam shikharaanicha/

5) Simho mrigaanaam cha patayastakshakaananta bhoginaam,

Ksheerado hyudadheenaam cha Mantraanaam Pranavastathaa/

Vajram sraharanaam cha vrataanaam Satyamevacha,

Twamevecchhaa cha dweshascha Raago Mohah Shamah Kshamaah/

Vyavasaayo dhrutirlobhah Kaamakrodhau Jayaa Jayou,

Twam Gadee twam sharee chaapi khatvaangee mudgaree tathaa/

Chhethaa Bhoktaa Prahartaacha netaa mantaasi no matah,

Dasha lakshana samyukto Dharmorthah kaama eva cha/

Induh Samudrah Saritah Palvalaani saraamsicha,

Tataavalyastrunoushadhyah Pashavo Mriga Pakshinah/

Dravya karma gunaarambhah Kaala pushpa phalapradah,

Adischaantascha madhyascha Gayatryonkaara eva cha/

Harito lohitah Krishno Naalah Peetastathaarunah,

Kadruscha  Kapilo Babhruhu Kapoto matsyakastathaa/

Suvarna retaah vikhyaatah Suvarnaschaapayo kutah,

Suvarna naamaah cha tathaa Suvarnapriya yevacha/

Twamindrascha Yamaschaiva Varuno Dhanadonilah,

Utphullaschitra bhaanushca Swarbhaanurevacha/

Hotram Hotaacha Homyam cha Hutam chaiva tathaaprabhuh,

Trisouparnastathaa Brahmanyajushaam Shata Rudriyam/

Pavitramcha Pavitraanaam Mangalaanaamscha Mangalam,

Praanascha twam Rajascha twam Tamah Satvayutastathaa/

Paanopaanah Samaanascha Udaano Vyana evacha,

Unmeshascha Nimeshascha Kshuthrut jhrumbha tathaiva cha/

Lohitaangascha Damshtree cha Mahaavaktro Mahodarah,

Shuchiromaa Haricchashruurdhva keshaaschalaachalah/

Geetavaaditra nrithyaango geetavaadanaka priyah,

Matsyojaalo jalojyayyo Jalavyalah kuteecharah/

Vikaalascha Sukaalascha Dushkaalah Kaala naashanah,

Mrutyuschaivaakshayontascha Kshama Maayaa karotkarah/

Samvarto Vartakaschaiva Samvartaka balaahakou,

Ghantaaki Ghantaki Ghanti Chudaalo Lavanodadhih/

6) Brahmaa kalaagnivakrascha Danidi Mundastridanda dhruk,

Chaturyugaschatur Vedascha –turhotraschatushpathah/

Chaturaashramyanetaa cha Chaturvarna karaschahum,

Ksharaaksharah Priyo dhurto Ganairganyo Ganaadhipah/

Raktamaalaambara dharo Gireesho Girijaapriyah,

Shilpeeshah Shilpinah Shreshtha Sarva Shilpi pravartakah/

Bhaganetraantakaschandah Pushno Dantavinaashanah,

Swaahaa Swadhaa Vashatkaaro Namaskaara Namostutey/

Goodha vratascha Goodhascha Goodha vrata nishevitah,

Taranastaaranaschaiva  Sarva Bhuteshu taaranah/

Dhaataa Vidhaata Sandhaataa Nidhaataa Dhaarano Dharah,

Tapo Brahmacha Satyam cha Brahmacharya tathaarjavam/

Bhutaatmaa Bhutakrudbhuto Bhutabhavya bhavodbhavah,

Bhurbhuvah swaratischaiva Bhutohyagni Maheswarah/

Brahmaavartah Suraavartah Karmaavartha Namostutey,

Kaamabimbavirhantaa Karnikaarastraja priyah/

Gonetaa Goprachaaras –cha Govrusheswara vaahanah,

Chaturmukho Bahumukho Raneshwabhimukhah sadaa/

Hiranyagarbhaha Shakunirdhanadortha patirviraat,

Adharmahaa Mahadaksho Dandadhaaro Ranapriyah/

Tishthan Sthirascha Shtaanuscha Nishkampascha Sunischalah,

Durvaarano Durvishaho Dussaho Duratikramah/

Durdharo Durvesho Nithyo Durdarpo Vijayo Jayah,

Shashah Shashaankanayanah Seetoshnaha Kshutrushaa jaraa/

Aadhayo Vyaadhayaschaiva Vyaadhihaa Vyaadhipascha yah,

SahyoYagnamrigha Vyaadho Vyaadheenaamaakarokarah/

Shikhandi Pundarikascha Pundarikaavalokanah,

Dandadhruk Chakradandascha Roudra bhaagaavinaashanah/

7) Vishapomrutapschaiva Suraapah Ksheerasomapah,

Madhupaschaapaschaiva Sarvapascha Balaabalaha/

Vrishaangavaahyo Vrishabhastathaa Vrishabha lochanah,

Vrishabhaschaiva Vikhyaato Lokaanaam Lokasamskrutah/ 

Chandraadityou Chakshushi tey Hrudayam cha Pitaamahah,

Agnishtomastathaa deho Dharmakarma prasaadhitah/

Na Brahmaacha Govindah Puraana Rishayo na cha,

Mahaatmyam Veditum Shaktaa Yathaatathyena  tey Shivah/

Shivaayaa Murtayah Sukshmaastey Mahyam yaantu darshanam,

Taabhirmaam Sarvato raksha pitaa putramivairasam/

Rakshamaam Rakshaneeyoham tawaanagha Namostutey,

Bhaktaanukampee Bhagavan Bhaktaschaaham sadaatwayi/

Yah Sahasraanyanekaani Pumsumaavritya durdishaam,

Tishthatyekah Samudraantey sa mey goptaastu nithyashah/

Yam Vinidraa Jitaswaasaaha Satyasthaaha Samadarshinah,

Jyotih Pashyanti yunjnaanaastasmai Yogaatmaney Namah/

Sambhakshya Sarvabhutaani Yugaantey Samuopasthitey,

Yah shetey Jalama –dhyasthatam Prapadyombushaayinam/

Pravishya vadanam Raahoryaha Somam pibatey nishi,

Grastyarkam cha Swarbhaanurbhutwaa Somaagnirevacha/

Angushtha maatraah Purushaa Dehasthaam Sarbva Dehinaam,

Rakshantu tey cha maam nithyam nityam chaapyayayantu maam/

Enaapyutpaaditaa garbha Aapo Bhaagagataascha ye,

Teshaam Swaahaa Swadhaachaiva Aapunuvanti swadanticha/

Harshayaanti  na hrashyanti Namastebhyastu nithyashah/

Ye Samudrey  Nadidurgey Parvateshu Goshtheshu Kaantaara gahaneshucha/

8) Chatushpateyshu Rathyaasu Chatwareshu Subhaasucha,

Hastaswarathashaalasu Jeernodyaanalayeshu cha/

Rasaatala gataayechaye cha Tasmaatparam gataah,

Namastebhyo Namastebhyastu Sarvashah/

Sarvastwam Sarvago Devah Sarvabhuta patirbhavah,

Sarvabhutaantaraatmaa cha teyna twam na nimantritah/

Twameva chejyasey Deva Yagnorvividha dakshinaih,

Twameva Kartaa Sarvasya tena twam na nimantritah/ 

Athavaa maayayaa Deva mohitah sukshmayaa tava,

Tasmaattyu kaaranaadyapi twam mayaa na nimantritah/

Praseeda mama Devesha twameva sharanam mama, ,

Twam gatistwam pratishthaa cha na chanyosteeti mey matih/

1)My salutations to you Devadeva, destroyer of Andhakaasura, Devendra, Balashreshtha who is worshipped by Devas and Danavas alike; You are Sahasraaksha or thousand eyed, Virupaaksha or with frightening looks, Trayksha or with Three Eyes, Shankha Karna or conchshell-like ears, Maha Karna or of enormous ears, Kumbha Karna akin to a vast pot, Arnavaalaya or whose residence is huge like an ocean, Gaja Karna/ Gokarna Karna or with elephant ears / Cow’s ears; Shata Karna or ears in hundreds;  Shatodara or hundred bellied; Shataavarta or surrounded by hundreds of bees; Shata jihva or hundred tongued; Gaayanti or  Gayatri devotees singing of Shiva’; Surya bhaktaas worship Shiva in Surya rupa; Deva Daanavaas worship Shiva with equal devotion; You are Murtimaan, Maha Murti, deep and abundant like Samudra; all the Devas reside in you and vice versa; we vision in your physique Chandra, Agni, Varuna, Surya, Vishnu, Brahma, and Brihaspati; You are the Kriya, Karana, Kaarya, Karta, Kaarana, Asat, Sadsat, Utpatti, Pralaya, Bhava or Srishti Karta, Sharva, Rudra or the tormentor, Varada, Pashupati, Killer of Andhakaasura, Trijata, Triseersha, Trishula dhaari, Traimbaka, Trinetra, and Tripura naashaka. My obeisance to You Mahadeva! Chanda the highly irritated, Munda the head  shaven; Vishwachanda dharaaya, Dandi, Shankha Karna, Dandidanda or Dandi dharana/ Danda (Punishment) giver, Artha Chandikeshaaya or Artha Naareeswara; Sushka or emaciated, Vikruta, Vilohita, Dhumra and Neelagreeva. You are Apratirupa or of Unique Form; Virupa; Shiva or of Kalyana / Mangala Rupa or of Propitious Form. Surya deva carries the Flag and Insignia of Yours; You are the Supreme Chief of Pramatha ganas; the Hiranya garbha Brahma wearing Hiranya Kavacha or Body Shield made of gold and the Hiranyapati or the Prime Master of Gold representing Wealth and Prosperity; the Shatru ghaati or the demolisher of enemies and a Symbol of Fury resisting Injustice and Viciousness; you are the Stuti Swarupa or the Target of  all the acclamations and exaltations by one and all; Sarva Swarupa or the Representation of the entire Universe; Sarva Bhakshi or the Great Devourer; your Dwajapataaka or the Bannerflag of Everlasting Victory is of  the Pure White Color. Maha Deva!

2) You are the Homa / Oblations into Agni and also the Mantra with which to invoke Devas and Devis. My greetings and sincere reverences to you always while asleep, awaken, waking up after sleep, while walking, standing or running, or performing nritya or dance and so on. You possess the Forms of Sreshtha (The Highly Distinguished) and the Jyeshtha or the Senior- most; You are the churner of Shakti epitomised; the Ten Handed; Kapaala dhaari; fond of white coloured ash to smear the body; Vibhishana, Bhima, Bhishma Vrata, the Assumer of various repulsive Forms with sword- like tongue and hideous teeth; You are the Time in various units like Paksha-Maasa-Lava and Kshana; the Ghoraghora and Ghoratara Swarupa yet a High Representation of Shanti and Mangala; the benchmark of Shuddha,  Buddha and Samvidhanapriya or Purity, Acumen and the Great Provider; You are the Pavana (Wind), Surya and Saankhyaparayana or the Wizard of Sankhya Yoga; You are the Ghanta or the Superlative Bell-its wearer with its magnificent Dhwani and Reverberation; the punisher of Beings for their evil deeds; the Nitya or the Perpetual Lohita Rupa in the habit of  making hums like Huum Huum; and Bhagakaara priya Rudra who is unsurpassable.

3) My reverences to you Mahadeva! You have a soft corner for Mountains and Forests full of huge trees; You are the Yagnadhipati, Bhuta-Vartamaana-Bhavishya Rupa or of the Form of Past-Present and Future; the Yajna vaahaka Jitendriya or the Controller of Human Limbs and senses; Satya Swarupa; Bhaga, Tataa-Tataapara- Tataani Pati or the Banks of Waterbodies including the Oceans; You are the Annadata, Anna pati, and Annabhogi too or the bestower of food, the King of Food and also the enjoyer of Food; he who possesses thousand Mastakas / heads and thousand ‘Paadaas’ feet as also Sahasra Shula/ thousand tridents and Sahasra Netras /thousand eyes; the Bakarkavarna / of the hue of  Uprising Sun and Bala Swarupa  or of the Form of a child; Maha deva! You are the emblem of Shudda / Cleanliness, Buddha / Grandeur; the Kshobana / the Provider of decay with Kshaya rupa or the Feature of bringing about dissolution with Kaal / Time as his puppet or child plaything; Parama Shiva! Your hair curls are dedicated with the forceful waves of Ganga and your hair tresses are fully freeflung and open; You are always engaged in Shatkarma Nishtha (viz. Sandhya Vandana or Gayatri Japa as prescribed and other Brahmanic duties ,  Adhyayan / Study of Spirituality, Adhyapan / Teaching  Spirituality, Yajana or performing and enable others to perform Sacrificial Fires, Daana / Charity and Pratigrahana /accepting danas); Trikarmanataya or engaged in the Three Tasks of Srishti-Paalana-Samhaarana /Creation-Preservation-Destruction; You are the Supreme Organiser and Administrator of Chaturvarnas of Brahmana-Kshatriya- Vaisya and Sudra Varnaas;  and Ashramas of Brahmacharya- Grihasta-Vanaprastha and Sanyaasa and thus the Facilitator of Dharma Pravritti; You possess eyes of varied colours like white, yellow, black and red; You are the Icon of Purushaarthaas Dharma, Artha, Kaama and Moksha as also of the Symbol of Kratha / Destruction, Krathana (Samhara Kartha), Saankhya Yoga  and Saankhyamukhya; You are the Charioteer of those who deserve to be driven towards the Prime Chaurasta / Four-Road Cross;

4) You wear black skin as your outside shroud and a serpent as your Yagnopaveeta or the Holy Thread; Ishaana Deva! You are the Swarupa of Ekadasha Rudras /Eleven Rudras; Harikesha / who assumes Pale Yellow Hair style; Vyaktaavyakta Swarupa, Amabika -anaatha; Trinetradhaari; Kaala Kaamada Kaamaaghna or the Emblem of Time, Desire and its Destroyer; Dushodvrutta Nishudana or the Slayer of the High Form of Evil Forces; you are the Sarvagarhita / the target of those who could never be gauged, the Sarvaghna (Sarva Samhaaraka), and Sadyojaata; He who could convert any body as mentally imbalanced and encircled with hundreds of such persons; who keeps Ganga on his head; called as Chandrartha samugaavarta or he who is encircled by Chandra and Meghaavarta or surrounded by clouds; the Provider of Anna / Food and the Lord of those who provide Anna to others; the Annabhokta and Anna Rakshaka /The Great Consumer of Food and its Protector; You are the Pralaya kaaleena Agni or the Gigantic Fire at the Time of  the Universal Annihilation; Devadeveswara! You are the Unique Form of Four kinds of Praanis or Beings viz. Jaraayuja (who wear out with passage of Time like human beings, animals etc); Andaja or are born out of Eggs like birds; Swedaja or those which are born of sweat like worms; and Udbhijja or spring out of soil / Earth; You are also the Srashta and Pratiharta / the Creator and Discharger of Charachara Jagat; You are Vishveswara, Brahma as also the Brahma of Mahajala Swarupa; Sudhaamshu / Moon and the Deposit of Jyotisha; Brahmavaadi Maharshi calls You as Ruk-Saama and Omkaara; Brahmavetthas who recite Saamagaana Ruchas / stanzas like ‘Haayi Haayi Harey Haayi Huvaa Haaveti’ are always engaged in your commendation; You are the Yajurveda, Rukveda, Sama Veda and Atharvana Veda; Brahmavetthaas are immersed in the Adhyayan or study of Kalpas and Upanisdhads extolling you; You are the Chaturvarna of Brahmana-Kshatriya-Vaishya and Shudras; You are the sparkle of Lightning, resound of clouds; Time Units like Samvatsara, Ritu, Maasa, Paksha, Kala, Kaashtha, Nimesha, Nakshatra and Yugas are all of Shiva Rupa; You are also the Vrishabha Kakud (Bull’s hump) and Giri Shikhara (Mountain Peak) alike.

5) Maha Deva! You are like the Lion among animals; Takshaka and Sesha Naga among the Serpents; the Ksheera Sagara among the Oceans; Pranava among the Mantras; Vajra among the Shastras; and  Satya Narayana among Vratas; You are the Icchaa (Desire), Dwesha (Dislike), Raaga (Affection), Moha (Infatuation), Shanti (Peace), Kshama (Patience), Vyavasaaya ( Strong Decision), Dhairya ( Courage), Lobha (Greed), Kaama (Passion), Krodha (Anger), Jaya (Victoy) and Paraajaya (Defeat); You are the Armoury like Gada, Baana, Dhanush, Khatvaanga, and Mudgara; You are the Chhettha (Expurgator), Bhettha (disintegrator) and Praharta (Striker or Attacker); Neta (Chief), Mantaa (Convincer), Manukta (the Persuader); Dasaguna, Dharmaartha Kaama Moksha Swarupa; You are of the Swarupa of Indu, Samudra, Nadi, Palvala or small pond, Sarovara, Lata or creeper, grass, Anna / Food, Pashu, Mriga, and birds; You are also Dravya (Money), Karma / Deeds, and Gunas; You are the Provider Fruits and Flowers as per Seasons; The Maker of the Beginning, the Middle and the End as also the Gayatri and Omkaara Swarupa; You constitute the colours of Green, Red, Black, Blue, Yellow, Kapila, Babhru, Kapota, Shyama and so on; you are the Suvarnaretha or Agni; popular by the name of Gold and as fond of Gold; Devadeva! You are Indra, Yama, Varuna, Kubera, Vaayu, the incandescent Agni, Swarbhanu or Rahu and Surya; the Havana Hota, Hotra or Havan, Homya or worshipped as Homa, Huta or Havi and Prabhu; you are the Trisouparna Rucha or Three leafed Stanza and Yagurveda’s Shata Rudriya or the One who is worshipped by various Devas, Danavas, Dikpalakas, Nava Grahas, Rishis, Bhuta-Preta-Piscachas, Gandharvas, Yakshas, Rakshasas, Manavas, Mountians, Nagas etc; You are the Most Sacred and Hallowed, the Mangala among Mangalas or the Most Propitious; the Pancha Praanaas viz. Praana, Apaana, Samaana, Udaana, and Vyana; the Three Gunaas of Satva, Rajas, and Tamogunas; Unmesha-Nimesha or Opening and Closing of Eyes; the Hunger and Thirst; You are Lohitaanga or of Red coloured Murti; Damshtri or the one with Damshtras / tusks; Maha Vaktra or Huge Faced; Mahodara or Big bellied; Shuchi Roma or of Sacred body hairs; Haricchamashru or yellow moustached and bearded; Urthva Kesha or  of lifted up head hairs; the Sthaavara-Jangamas or Moveable and Immobile Beings; Geeta-Vaadya-Nritthaanga or of Song-Music-Instrumental and Dance Forms; Parameswara! You are the Emblem of Music and Dance; you are the Matsya, Jala or its Life-Providing water and Life-taker viz. the jaal or the net; Maha Deva! None could ever win over you; You are the Water snake residing in water and lonely Grihasti or the much married family person; indeed You are the Form of Vikaala or the Negative Time, Sukaala or the Positive Time, Dushkaala or Bad Time; and Kaala naashaka or the destroyer of Time; You are indeed the Mrityu, Akshaya or Everlasting and Anta or the Terminator; the Kshama or of Endless Capacity; Maya and of the all-pervading Beams of Luminosity; You are the Samvarta or Pralaya Kaala, Vartaka or of the Everlasting Vidya; Samvartaka or of Pralaya  Kaala and Balaahaka or Clouds; Since you wear a Ghanta or big bell, you are popular as Ghantaki and Ghanti; You sport a tuft  on the back of head and the entire Samudra of salt water  is of your Swarupa.       

6) You are Brahma having Kaalaagni on his face, with shaven head and as an ascetic wearing a Tri-danda; you are of the Form of Chatur Yugas of Satya-Treta-Dwapara and Kali; Chatur Vedas of Ruk-Yajur-Saama and Atharvana; Chaturhotra or four kinds of ‘Hotaas’ (Conductors) at Yagnas and the meeting point of Chatushpathas or Four Roads; the Regulator of Chaturaashramaas of Brahmacharya-Garhastya-Vaanaprasatha and Sanyaasa; and of Chaturvarnas of Brahmana-Kshatriya-Vaishya and Shudras. You are the representation of Kshaya (Dissolution) and Akshaya (Permanance), Priya (Affection), Dhurta (Disgust), Gananeeya (Distinguished) and Ganapati; You adorn red-bead necklaces and red clothing; the Swami of Mountains and Vaani / Voices; the Master of Shilpakaaraas, the Shilpa Sreshthi and the Trainer of Shilpis; being of extremely angry  profile, you have broken the teeth of Pusha (Sun God); You are the manifestation of Swaha (offerings to Agni or by water), Swadha (oblations to Pitras), and Vashatkara  (Personification of Vedic Sacrifice); You are the ‘Goodha Vrata’ or the worship by way of  Vrata or prescribed way of Puja and Goodha / with a hidden conternt and aim; the Performer of Goodha Vrata and the target of those who perform the Goodha vrata; You are the Swarupa of ‘Tarna’or Moksha as also the Taarana or Provider of Moksha; You are the Movement of the Inner Soul of all Beings; the Dhata or the one who holds; the Vidhata or the destiny maker, Sandhaata or the Germinator, Dharana (the hold), Dhara or he who provides the hold; You are the Tapas or Meditation, Brahma or the Supreme Creator, Satya or the Eternal Truth; Brahmacharya (the Celibacy), and Arjiva or  the Symbol of Saralata /Softness; You are the Bhutaatma or the inner soul of one and all; the Sourcer of the Bhutaatmaas; Bhuta Swarupa; the Originator of Bhuta-Vartamaana-Bhavishya; the Bhurloka- Bhuvarloka- Swarloka, the Bhutaatma, Agni and Maheswara; You are thde Brahmaavarta-Suraavarta and Kaamaavarta; the destroyer of Kamadeva Vigraha; You are fond of Karnikaara /Kanera flower garland wearer; indeed you are the Goneta, Gopracharaka or the Sanchalaka of Indriyas and Goswami who rides over Nandi Deva. My Prayers to you Paramatma! Protection of Trilokaas is entirely in your holy hands; you are Govinda or Gorakshaka, Gopaalaka or the safeguard of cows, and Gomaarga or the safe passage of cows; indeed you are the Akhanada Chandraabhimukha or the One with Eternally Moon-Faced Supreme Being of Extreme Pleasantness; You are indeed the faceless, or with a face none too attractive, or with four faces or of multiple faces or with a face ever peaceful and sport full in the midst of battles! You are Hiranya -garbha Brahma, Dhanada the Provider of wealth, Dhana Swami, Viraat Purusha, Adharmahaa or the demoplisher of viciousness, Maha Daksha, danda dhaari and Yuddha Premi; You are Tishthan or Ever Standing or Seated firmly; Sthira or Ever-Steady, Sthaanu or fixed, Nishkampa or Never Shaken, Nischala or immobile, Durvaaran or avoidable with great difficulty; Durvishaha or Unbearable, Dusshah or difficult to tolerate, Duratikrama or unsurpassable; you are not possible to hold nor bring under control, Durdamya or unmanageable, always victorious as the personification of success; You are like a hare, Chandra is your eyes; You are the symbol of extreme cold and oppressive heat; You are hunger, thirst, old age, Adhi or of Mentally / Psychologically disturbed and Vyadhi or physiologically unhealthy and at the same time the promoter and demolisher of diseases; you are the icon of tolerance; the Yagnarupi, Shikhandi or the wearer of Peacock feathers; Pundarika or of Kamalarupa dhari; Danda dhaari, Chakra danda and Roudrabhaagaa Vinaashanah or he who had the names as Danda,Chakra  and Roudra bhaaga.

7) Indeed you are Great Consumer of Amrit, Visha, Dudha, Soma, Madhu, Jala or any drink alike with equal ease.You are the Vrishabha Swarupa as you to stride the Bull of Dharma / Virtue; your eyes resemble those of a Vrishabha and in fact you are popularly worshipped as a Vrishabha all over!  The whole Universe is engaged in your Sanskaara or worship by way of Puja and Abhisheka. Maha Deva! Your two Eyes represent Chandra and Surya, your heart is of Brahma Swarupa, Agnishtoma is like your Body, and Dharm Karma is your Shringaara or ornamentation. Brahma, Vishnu and Sanaatana Rishis are unable to assess the real image of you! May I be blessed with your very kind Darshan in the form of your highly auspicious Sukshma Rupa? May I be granted protection from my attackers just as a father would as I do indeed deserve safety as I have overcome of my ego that led me into arrogance and ego; I prostrate before you with humility and sincere veneration as I am fully purged of my unpardonable short-comings, while innumerable Yogeswaras are in constant endeavor to discover the splendid and illuminated Parama Tatwa of Yours steeped into Satvikaguna. I seek your forgiveness Maha Deva as at the Time of Pralaya You resort to Yoga Nidra as Jalashaayi when the entire Universe is submerged and is under surrender seeking your asylum. When Chandra drinks Amrit from inside your mouth in the form of Rahu, Surya too gets sustenance from you by assuming the Form of Ketu and in the Form of Agni as Soma Swarupa, I seek shelter in you. May you provide me sanctuary as you exist in all the Beings as thumb-like figures of Jeevatma and to me too grant the same kind of benevolence! I salute your Mangalamaya Shivarupa as all the human beings enter their Garbhas are provided with Swaha or Pushti / Growth and Swadha or Swadhishta Rasa by you and once the Jeevaas are out,  you make them cry and laugh intermittently! To that Paramatma who manifests and permeates the Srishti among Samudras, Rivers, Unreachable Places, Parvataas, Caves, Vrikhsas, Forests, Agamya sthalaas, Sky routes, Cross roads, Streets, Sabhas, Gajashaalaas, Ashva shaalaas, Ratha shaalaas, Vaatikaas, old houses, Pancha Bhutaas, Dishaas or Directions, Sub-Directions, between Indra and Surya, Chandra and Surya and in Sub-Terrain Bilwa Swarga viz. Rasatala and other lokas etc. I kneel down in admiration and devotion as I salute you again and again!

8) Bhagavan! You are Sarva Swarupa, Sarvavyaapi, Sampurna Bhuta Swami, the Cause of Creation, the Antaraatma of Sarva Bhutaas; that was why I did not send any Invitaion to you the Yagna that was organized by me; indeed You are the Chief Deity worshipped in any Sacrifice as you are the Outstanding Supreme Power most adulated; I was in fact covered by Maya when I erred and ignored you. Please, Please, do very kindly forgive me Devadi Deva as you are my Gati, Pratishtha and my strong conviction that being a personification of Mercy You will definitely forgive me: Paseeda mama Devesha twameva sharanam mama, Thwam Gatistwam Pratishtha cha na chaanyesteeti mey matih/  

Needless to say that the ever compassionate Maha Deva pardoned Daksha Prajapati and blessed him to attain Shiva ‘Saameepya’. Those who read or recite or think deeply about the Text of the Shiva Sahasranaamaa with its meaning and context shall most certainly accomplish auspicious tidings, long life, and excellent health. Those who aspire for fame, Swarga Prapti, Aishwarya / Wealth, Vidya and Victory should achieve the objectives. Those who are distressed by illnesses, difficulties, fear of various kinds would attain quick reliefs. Obstacles created by Yaksha, Piscacha, Naaga, Vinaayaka, and Thieves are assured of safeguards and instant protection. This confidential Stotra in which Daksha poured his heart out and pleased Maha Deva for his earnestness and devotion could be read, recited and understood by any body with dedication, be it by women, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, Vidyarthis, Shudras or of any faith whatsoever, especially by Brahmanaas on Parva Dinaas of Festival Days would be blessed with contentment in life and Shiva Loka Prapti after life!

13    Ekaamra/ Purushottama Kshetras and King Indradyumna’s Temple of Jagannatha

(‘Kaarunya Sthava Varnana’ /Vishnu Stotra included)

Maharshi Lomaharshana narrated to the Sages assembled at Naimisharanya under the leadership of Suta Maha Muni about the significance of Ekaamra and Purushotthama Kshektras as told by Lord Brahma himself originally. Ekaamra Kshetra had as much of popular belief and reputation of Varanasi with Koti Shiva Lingas and eight Tirthas where at the beginning of the present Kalpa there was stated to have been a huge mango tree and hence the name of Ekaamra (literally meaning Mango orchards). It was also stated that the sacred waters of various Tirthas, Rivers, Sarovaras, Pushkari, Tataakas and Vapis, besides the Oceans surrounding Bharata Desha were collected by Devatas and poured into the famed Bindudsara Tirtha where Tribhuvaneswara (Bhuvaneshwar of Orissa) Lingaabhisheka was performed. Since then Agahana / Margaseersha Krishna Paksha Ashtami has been the day when devotees undertake Tirtha Yatra to the Temple when they take sacred bath in the Bindusarovara and at the time of Vishu Yoga perform Tila tarpanas to Devataas, Rishis, and Pitras to attain the Ashva Yaaga Phala. It has been the belief that Tarpanmaas and Pitru Pinda Daanaas / charities to learned Brahmanas at the timings of Grahanaas or Solar and Lunar Eclipses, Vishuva yogas, Samkranti, Ayanaarambhaas, and such other significant Festival Days would yield hundred fold fruits of similar acts in oher Kshetras. Thereafter, devotees should enter the Temple and perform Abhisheka, and Puja with Bilwapatra, Lotus and other flowers along with the chanting of Vedic and Tantrika Mantras and ‘Shodashopachaaraas’/ Sixteen Services with Gandha, Pushpa,  Phala, Chandana, Dhupa, Deepa, Naivedya, Upahaara, Stuti, Saashtaanga Pranaama, Geeta-Vaadya, Nritya, Japa, Namaskaara and Pradakshina. From the Temple in the Four Directions of Paschima, Purva, Dakshina and Uttara are situated Kshetras some two and half yojanas away, of which Bhaskareshwara Linga is the most significant as also other Kshetras. There had also been several other Tirthas not far from Ekaamra Kshetra. Towards the East Coast near the Samudra in the Utkala Desha was the famed Purushottama Kshetra where the all-pervading Jagannatha resided; Brahma Deva stated that besides himself, Shiva, Indra, Agni and other Devataas set up their residences as also Gandharvas, Apsaraas, Pitras, Yakshas, Vidyadharas, Siddhaas, Rishis, also Prajapatis, Garuda, Kinnara, Naaga, Vedas, Shastras and Itihaasa Puranaas were all present and the Place which got sanctified further with Purushotthama’s presence too had acquired unique significance. Those who would visit this extraordinary Tirtha and get the Darshan of Purushotthama would never ever enter Yamaloka but be safe on Swargapatha.

The illustrious and highly virtuous King Indradyumna of Malwadesha with Avantika (Ujjain) as his Capital City on the banks of the Sacred River Kshipra was famed as a unique Administrator with such qualities that his subjects followed Varnaashrama, lived with peaceful contentment and prosperity without fear or ill-health and respectful of values of Dharmik life viz. Dharma-Artha-Kaama-Moksha. Already in Avantika, there had been for times immemorial a Mahaakala Temple of Trinetradhaari Maha Deva whose darshan and worship had proven fulfillment of the wishes of lakhs of visiting devotees. Besides the Sacred Kshipra and several water bodies, there also was a Shivakunda, an instant sin-demolisher, in the vicinity of Mahaakala and devotees who bathed in it; offered Tarpanas to Devas, Rishis and Pitras and entered the Temple to worship Mahaakaala with Lingabhisheka, Pushpa, Gandha, dhupa, deepa, naivedya and pradakshinas were blessed with Ashwamedha Yagna Phala, paapa-mukti and Shivaloka prapti. There was also Govinda Swami Temple which when visited and worshipped, the fruits are stated to relieve the souls of twenty one previous generations. Besides, there also was the Temple of Vikrama Swami whose darshan ensured Swarga Prapti as the King was conducting regular discussions of Itihaasa- Puranas, Shastra-Vedanga deliberations and so on and even Indra and Deva-Devis were stated to attend the Pravachanas!

The King had a long standing ambition to build an unparelelled and world famed Temple of Jagannadha with the Idols of  Krishna, Balarama and their sister Subhadra where regular and formal worship should be organized with Snaana, Daana, Tapa, Homa and Deva Darshana every day for generations who would seek Moksha to crowds of devotees. With a view to identify a suitable Place for building a Huge Place of Jagannadha as envisaged by the King, the latter undertook a Yatra, with elephants, horses, chariots, and soldiers and the Public towards the southern direction ending the Eastern Sea-coast.

It was at this juncture that the Sages at Naimisharanya interrupted the narration of Maharshi Lomaharshana as to how such most Sacred and appropriate Purushotthama Kshetra was selected by the King Indradyumna? In reply to the query, the Maharshi quoted Lord Bramha that Devi Lakshmi asked Janardana on the same issue and the latter asserted as follows since he had the vision of the future: ‘Purushottama Tirtha would for sure one of the most celebrated Tirthas, where Devas, Daityas, Danavas and Marichi-like Maharshis were indeed aware already; he further said that on the Southern Sea-coast there would be a mammoth Vata-Vriksha (Banyan Tree) in a large area of ten yojanas and that would be the most ideal Place for developing Purushotthama Kshetra. This massive Vata Vriksha was in place already and did not get swept away by water even at the Kalpaantara and Sages and Yogis meditated under the Tree and dissolved severest sins like Brahmahatya of previous births. To the north of of that Vata Vriksha was situated a Keshava Temple already and from it, there was a Massive Mahal which was indeed the Dharmamaya Abode of Swayambhu Vishnu by praying whom devotees were making a bee-line to Vaikuntha! By realizing this, Yama Dharma Raja approached me (Vishnu) and I assured Yama Deva that this specific Pratima would be hidden by me.’

King Indradyumna crossed Mahanadi on the either sides of which the lands were fertile, Brahmanas were pious engaged in Yagnas, Homas, worships, fastings and Swadhyaas; Varnaashramas were flourishing and the King came to realize that the destination was reached where the Temple task was to be taken up. He ordered his Samanta Rajas nearby to let the building material arrive, Shilpis were ordered to arrive to quicken the making of various Idols and the Astrologers were summoned to fix up suitable dates of various stages of construction. Efforts were intensified to locate the famed Swayambhu Purushotthama Vigraha which was misplaced from the Keshava Temple. As advised by Raja Purohitas and Panditaas, the King performed Ashwamedha Yagna. Simultaneously theTemple Construction was completed too. But there was no trace of the Purushottama Pratima yet and the King was terribly worried and prayed to the Lord at length:

Vaasudeva Namastestu Namastey Moksha Kaaranaa,

Traahi maam Sarva Lokesha Janmasamsaara saagaraat/

Nirmalaambara samkaasha Namastey Purushotthaama,

Sankarshana Namastestu traahi maam Dharanidhara/

Namastey Hemagarbhaaya Namastey Makaradhwaja,

Ratikaanta Namastestu traahi maam Shambaraantaka/

Namastenjana samkaasha Namastey Bhaktavatsala,

Aniruddha Namastestu traahi maam Varado bhava/

Namastey Vibhudaavaasa Namastey Vibhudapriya,

Naraayana Namastestu traahi maam sharanaagatam/

Namastey Balinaam Shreshtha NamasteyLaangalaayudha,

Chaturmukha Jagaddhaamatraahimaam Prapitaamaha/

Namastey Neela meghaabha  Namastey Tridashaarchita,

Traahi Vishno Jagannaatha magnam maambhava saagarey

/(Vaasudeva, Moksha Kaarana! Save me from the cycle of birth and death; you are like the clean and clear Sky; my salutations to you Purushottama the best of Beings, Sankarshana who attracts the Universe, Dharanidhara the Holder of Earth’s total weight, the Golden- bellied or the Shaaligraama Shila, the Makaradwaja or the Flier of the Flag of a Crocodile on yout chariot; Ratikanta or the Swarupa of Manmatha who is an embodiment of Charm and beauty; Shambraantaka or the destroyer of Shambaraasura; Anjana Sankaasha or of Shyamala / light blue colour; Bhaktavatsala or He who is considerate to devotees; Varadaayaka or the Bestower of Boons; Aniruddha; Vibudhaavaasa and Vibudhapriya or He who rests with and fond of Devas; Natayana or He who lies on a Huge Water sheet in Yoga Nidra; I crave for your indulgence and refuge; You are of the Swarupa of Balarama the Symbol of Strength; You are the Halaayudha; Charurmukha; Jagaddhaama; Prapitaamaha, Neela Meghaaya, Tridashaarchita, Vishnu and Jannaadha; I am fully drowned in the Ocean of Samsara; do lift me up and save me!

King Indradyumna continued his prayer to Jagannadha as follows: You are the annihilator of the invincible Daitya Hiranyakashipu as the incarnation of Nrisimha whose vision was like that of Pralayaagni; save me! You were the Avatar of Maha Varaaha who lifted up Bhudevi from the cluthes of Daitya Hiranyaaksha from Rasatalala; lift me up from the deep and distressful Ocean of Samsaara; You are the incarnation of Krishna who arrived on Bhumi to terminate innumerable Raakshasaas and Evil Forces and revived Dharma in various Forms of yours like Balarama; You are of the Swarupas like Garuda, Dikpaalakaas and so on and my salutations to one and all; Do bestow on me the boons of Dharma, Artha, Kaama and Moksha; You may be of myriad Forms but the Advaita or the Singular and Unique;

Ekastwam hi Harey Vyaapi Chitaswabhaavo Niranjana,

Paramam, tava Rupam yadrupam Bhaavaabhaavavivarjitam,

Nirlepam Nirgunam Shreshtham Kutastamachalam Dhruvam!---

Kadaa Manushya Lokegha Kadaa Tiryaggateshucha,

Jalayantrey yathaa chakrey ghatee rajju nibandhanaa/

Yaatichyortham tathaa madhey bhraman gacchaami yogatah,

Evam Samsaara  chakreysminbhairavey Romaharshaney/

Bhramaami suchiram kaalam naantam pashyaami karhichit,

Najaaney kim karomyadya Harey Vyaakulitendriyah/

Shoka trishnaabhi bhutoham Kaandisiko vichetanah,

Idaaneem twaamaham Deva vihvalah Sharanam gatah/

Traahimaam Duhkhatam Krishnamagnam Samsaara Saagarey,

Kripaam kuru Jagannaatha Bhaktam maam yadi manyasey!  

(Deva! I am not aware of when I shall be in Naraka or Swarga; when would I be on Bhumi and when as an animal or a bird! I have been in the cycle of birth and death just as a string around a pot, once on top and once on bottom as a mechanical appliance lifting water from a well in the ‘Kalachakra’ and there does not seem to be an end to the ‘Bhramana’ or unending revolution; I am at a complete loss to realize as to when is the termination of this endless cycle as a I am victimized as a ‘Kandiseeka’ or a migrant/ distressed wanderer from one life to another. Bhagavan Krishna! Kindly liberate me from these unending and repetitive flights in the pursuit of everlasting mirages!)



As the King Indradumna prayed on the above lines, Jagannatha was pleased and granted darshan in the pure-hearted dreams of the King; the  Lord  who was in His full Form with Shankha-Chakra-Gada and Saranga directed the King to reach the Sea shore in the early morning time all alone with an axe in hands into the Sea which would give way to lead him to  reach a place where he would sight a Maha Vriksha and without any hesitation cut the Tree; while cutting it, Jagannadha said that the King would discover a fabulous ‘Vastu’ and should consider that Vastu as the Pratima of Jannaatha for installation in the Temple awaiting the installation. The King was overwhelmed with the vision of Paramatma in the dream, recited Vishnu Mantra and Vishnu Sukta, reached the Sea Shore with extreme devotion and did exactly as directed; he found the Maha Vriksha, cut it into pieces and found Bhagavan Vishnu and Vishwakarma in the Forms of two Brahmanas; the latter interrogated the King as to why the latter was cutting the Tree and the King replied smilingly and with extreme veneration that he was directed by the Adyanta Rahita Bhagavan Jagannaathaa Himself! The Brahmanas complimented the efforts of the King and one of them directed the other Brahmana to prepare the Pratimas on the lines prescribed by Him saying:

Krishnarupam param shaantam padmapatraayatekshanam,

Srivatsa Koustubha dharam Shankha Chakra Gadaadharam,

Gouraangam Kshira varnaabhaam dviteeyam Swastikaankitam/

Laangalaastradharam Deva manantaakhyam Mahabalam,

Deva Daanava Gandharva Yaksha Vidyaadharoragaih/

Na Vigjnaatohi tasyaantasteynaananta iti smrutatah,

Bhagineem Vaasudevasya Rukmavarnaam Sushobhanaam/

Triteeyaam vai Subhadraamcha Sarva Lakshana Lakshitaam!

(Bhagavan Shri Krishna is of extreme peaceful visage; his eyes are large and sparkling like a lotus; his chest is adorned with the Emblem of Srivatsa and with Koustubha jewel; and his hands are decorated with Shankha, Chakra and Gada. The Second Idol of Bhagavan Balarama should be of milk-like Gaura Varna; of Swastika Chihna / Signage; with Hala/ plough as his Ayudha named Ananta or Interminable / Endless, whom none could decscribe including Deva- Daanava-Gandharva- Yaksa-Vidyadhara-Nagas! The third Pratma would be of Subhadra the sister of Vaasudeva and Balarama whose sacred Physique was golden and auspicious!) As soon as the description of the features of the Three Idols was given, the Junior Brahmana materialized the Pratimas exactly on the lines; first of Balabhadra, then of Vaasudeva and finally of Devi Subhadra. Then the King asked the Brahmanas as to who they were precisely- were they Devataas o Yakshaas, Vidyadharaas, Ahwini kumars are Brahma and Vishnus! Bhagavan replied that he was not a Devata, Yaksha, Indra, Brahma and Rudra, but might be as well construed as Vishnu himself! As the latter’s identity was revealed, the King was non-plussed and broke down into ecstatic bewilderment and implored him as follows:

Shriyahkaanta Namasteystu Shripatey Peetavaasavey,

Shreeda Shreesha Shri Nivaasa Namastey Shreeniketana/

Adhyam Purushameeshaanam Sarvesham Sarvatomukham,

Nishkalam Paramam Devam Pranatosmi Sarvatomukham,

Nishkalam Paramam Devam Pranatosmi Sanaatanam/

Shabdaateetam Gunaateetam Baavaabhaava Vivarjitam,

Nirlepam Nirgunam Sooksham Sarvajnam Sarvabhaavanam/

Praavrunmegha prateekaasham Go Brahmana hitey ratam,

Sarveshaameva  goptaaram vyaapinam Sarva bhaavinam/ 

Shankhachakradharam Devam Gadaa musaladhaarinam,

Namasye Varadam Devam Neelotpaladala chhivam/

Naga paryankashayanam Ksheerodaarnava shaayinam/

Namasyeham Hrisheekesham Sarva papa harim Harim/

Punastwaam Deva Devesham Namastye Varadam Vibhum,

Sarva LokeshwaramVishnum Moksha Kaaranam -avyayam/

(Lakshmikanta! Peetaambara dhari! Shrinivasa! I greet you the Adipurusha, Ishaana, Sarveswara, Sarvatomukha or He visions in all directions; Nishaka, Sanatana, Parama Deva, Shabda-Gunaateeta or He who is beyond the reach of Sound or Features; devoid of Bhava or Abhava / belief or non-belief; Nirlepa, Nirguna, Sukshma, Sarvajna, and Saviour; Your Form is dark like the clouds of Rainy Season; You are always engaged in the safety of cows and Brahmanas; Sarvajna or the Omnisient and the Supreme Creator; You are the Highest Deity with Shanka-Chakra-Gada-Musala ready to save; the Ever Provider to one and all; Sesha Shaayi; Hrishikesha; Sarva Paapa Haari; Moksha Kaarana, Sarva Vyapi Vishnu; my obeisances to you Sarva Lokesha!).

The King then asked for the boon of attaining Vishnupada which was impossible even for Devaasuras, Gandharvas, Yaksha, Siddha, Saadhyta, Vidyaadhara, Naaga, Guhya, Kinnara, Parama Yogis and Maharshis. Lord Jagannatha not only granted the boon and also blessed him to continue the Kingship for nineteen thousand years to ensure the observance of worship at the Purushottama Kshetra; he also materialized an Indradyumna Sarovara to immortalize human memory of the most illustrious King as long as Jagannatha’s Presence in the Purushottama Kshetra would continue. It is stated that a devotee would accomplish Great Punya /Fruit by worshipping Lord Jannaatha at Purushotthama Kshetra by observing strict devotion and fasting on Jyeshtha Shuddha Dwadashi as he or she would acquire by standing upright with devotion for seventy thousand years at Kurukshetra by stringent austerity. Even a passing Darshan of the Shikhara of the Purushottama Temple from a disdtance would demolish Sarva Paapaas of the Past and Present.

13A Markandeyopakhyana’- Darshanaas of Pralaya Bala Mukunda, Shiva and Krishna

At the time of Pralaya or the Great Annihilation at the Kalpaantara, Chandra, Surya and Vayu faced near-extinction as also of the Sthaavara-Jangamaas /moveable and immobile Beings. That was the time when Pralaya kaala Surya became too fierce and there were cloud-bursts and severe lightnings. Pralayaagni surrounded the entire Universe and there were indeed no survivors, except Markandeya who was struggling to swim against the hurricane and thunder storm. Suddenly he heard a whisper-like voice which said: come near the Vata Vriksha and come to my refuge! The Maharshi wondered as to where the feeble voice emerged from. He was astonished as he looked up the high and sprawling Banyan where he visioned a charming Balarupadhari Krishna Bhagavan with four hands armed with Shankha-Chakra-Gada-Saranga with peacock feathers on his golden Kireeta, Vanamaala, sparkling ear-rings and Koustubha Mani! Markandeya was highly refreshed from his physical exhaustion and fatigue as he visioned the fantastic appearance but continued to ruminate it as a false hallucination! He rubbed on his eyes repeatedly in utter disbelief.Then came the profound voice saying: My child, you are too tired; come near to me for solace and enter into my body for soothing relaxation. On hearing the Celestial Voice of Bala Gopala, the Maharshi turned motionless and speechless and entered Bala Krishna’s face as though in a state of stupor and blankness and gradually entered in Paramatma’s belly where he saw for himself Pancha Bhutas, Sapta Lokas of Bhur-Bhuvar-Swar-Mahar-Jana-Tapas and Satya; Sapta Paataalas viz. Atala, Vitala, Sutala, Pataala, Rasaatala and Mahatala; Sapta Dwipas viz. Jambu, Plaksha, Shaalmala, Kusha, Krouncha, Shaaka and Pushkara; Sapta Samudras, Sapta Parvatas, Indra and other Devas, Siddha, Chaarana, Naga, Muni , Yaksha, Apsara and finally the Charaachara Srishti! Markandeya gradually recovered semi-consciousness and extolled Bala Mukunda as follows:

Devadeva Jagannatha Maayaa Balavapurdhara,

Traahimaam Chaaru Padmaaksha Duhkhitam Sharanaagatam/ ------

Tavodarey cha Devesa mayaadrushto charaacharam,

Vismitoham vishannascha traahimaam Purushotthama/

Samsaaresmin -niraalambey praseeda Purushotthama

Praseeda Vibhudhassreshta praseeda vibhudapriya/

Praseeda vibhudhaamnaatha praseeda vibhutaalaya,

Praseeda sarva Lokesa Jagat Kaarana Kaarana/

Praseeeda Sarvakruddeva Praseeda mama Bhudhara,

Praseeda salilaavaasa praseeda Madhusudana/

Praseeda Kamalaakaantya Praseeda Tridasheswara,

Praseeda Kamsakesighna praseedaarishta naashana/

Praseeda Krishna Daityaghna praseeda danujaantaka,

Praseeda Mathuraavaasa Praseeda Yadunandana/

Praseeda Shakraavaraja Praseeda varadaavyaya,

Twam Mahi twam Jalam Devah twamagnistwam sameeranah/

Twam nabhastwam Manaschaiva twamahankaara eva cha,

Twam Buddhih Prakrutischaiva Satvaadyaastwam Jagatpatey/

Purushastwam Jagadvyaapi Purushaadapichotthamah,

Twamindrayaani Sarvaani Shabdaadyaa vishayaah Prabho/

Twam Dikpaalascha Dharmaascha Vedaa Yagnaah sadakshinaah,

Twamindrastwam Shivo Devastwam Havistwam Hutaashanah/

Twam Yamah Pitruraardevah twam Rakshaadhipatih Swayam,

Varunastwamapaam Naathah twam Vaayustwam Dhaneswarah/

Twameesaanas twamanantastwam Ganeshascha ,

Shanmukhah Vasavastwam tathaa Rudraaptwa maadityaascha khecharaah/

Daanavaastwam tathaa Yakshaastwam Daityaah Samarudganaah,

Siddhaas –charapsaraso Naagaa Gandharwaastwam sa Chaaranaah/

PitaroVaakakhilyaascha Prajaanaam patayochyuta,

Munayastwamrushi ganaastwa maswinou Nisaacharaah/

Anyaascha Jaatayastwamhi yatkinchitjeeva sanjnitam,

Kinchaatra bahunoktena Brahamaastamba gocharam/

Bhutam Bhavyam Bhavishyam cha twam Jagatsa charaacharam,

Yatthe rupam Param Deva kutasthamachalam dhruvam/

Brahmaadyaastanna jaananti kathamanyelpamedhasah,

Deva Shuddhaa swabhaavosi Nityastwam Prakrutey parah/

Avyaktah Shaaswatonantah Sarvavyaapi Maheswarah,

Twamaakaashah parah Shaanto Aaajastwam Vibhuravyayah/



(Deva Deva! Mayaa Baala Murtidhara! Padmaaksha! Kindly save me as I am shattered. I have visualized the ‘Charaachara Jagat’ in your belly. I am indeed shocked and frightened. Please show me mercy as I am in a confused situation. You are the cause of existence. You are the Pancha Bhutaas of Earth-Water-Light and heat-Air and Sky; You are the Ahamkaara or Self-Recognition and Ego; You are the Maha-Tatwa and Buddhi; the Prakriti; You are the Triguna Swarupa or of Satwa-Rajo-Tamo Gunaas; You are the Dikpaalakas or the Chiefs of the Ten-Direcrtions; the Ashtaa Vasus; Ekaadasha Rudras; Dwadasaadityas; Gandharvas; Devas and Danavas; Forty Nine Marudganaas; Pitru Devataas; Vaalakhilyaas; Prajaapatis; Sapta Rishis; two Ashvinis; Unimaginable number of Jeevas; the Visionary of Brahmaadi Beings; Bhuta-Bhavya-Bhavishya Rupa; and ‘Kutastha’ beyond imagination of even Brahma downward; the Nitya-Suddha-Buddha-Mukta-Swarupa; Avyakta- Shaswata-Ananta-Sarva Vyapi-Maheswara-Shanta and Aakaasha Rupa).                                                            



As Markandeya completed his Stuti of Bala Mukunda, the Maharshi sought clarification from Bhagavan about Maha Tatwa, Maya and Bhagavan and the latter smiled and stated: Even Brahma and Devas could not comprehend about the Concepts but keeping in view the  Supreme Pitru Bhakti, Deva Bhakti and the high-order of Brahmacharya of the Muni,the Lord granted the greatest dispensation to the Sage by way of ‘Sakshaatkaara’ and safety at the Pralaya; Bhagavan then outlined his clarifications in brief: At the beginning of Srishti, he created water and called it as Naara and since my Ayana or  Nivaasa / residence was the Naara, Bhagavan was named as Naara-Ayana or Naraayana; Bhagavan Narayana was the Supreme Creator, the Sanaatana or the Most Ancient, Avinaashi (Indestructible), and Srashta and Samharta; He said that he was Vishnu, Brahma, Indra, Kuybera, Pretaraja Yama, Shiva,Chandrama, Prajapati Kashyapa,  Dhata, Vidhata and Yajna. He stated that his Face was Agni, his Feet were Prithvi, his eyes were Surya and Chandra, Dyuloka his Mastaka or Head, Akaasha and Dashaas his ears, his sweat the Jala; the whole Universe was his Body, the Sky, Directions and Vayu. Veda Vidwans performing Deva Yagnaas worship Him only. He bore the brunt of the Universe in the form of Sesha Naga who in turn carried the weight of Samudras, Parvatas and so on; as the Varaha Rupa he salvaged the sinking Prithvi all by himself from Rasatala; He assumed the Form of Badabaagni to absorb Sea Water and gave it back in the Form of Rains from the Meghas; from his face were born Brahmanas, shoulders and hands were created the Kshatriyas, Vaishyas from his highs and Sudras frm his feet; from him were created Jnaanarupi Sanyaasis, Jijnaasus, and Adhyatmika Vettas; He was the Script- Maker of Ruk-Yajur-Sama and Atharva Vedas; He was the Samvartaka (Code-Creator) Jyoti, Samvartaka Agni, Samvartaka Surya, and Samvartaka Vayu; the millions of Nakshatras /Stars on the Sky were his body hairs; the Oceans full of Ratnas and the Dasha-Dishaas were also own Form; the concepts of Satya, Daana, Tapasya and Ahimsa were all his creations; and  the Antah- karana or the Inner Conscience of all Beings was also his own Form. Bala Mukunda further clarified that when ever Dharma or the Outlines of Virtuous Existence / Behaviour prescribed by Him got disturbed or distorted to extreme situations,  He himself assumed Avatars or Incarnations as per the required exigencies to destroy the Evil Forces and restore Dharma again: Yadaa yadaahi Dharmasya Glaanir bhavati Sattama, Abhyuttaana –madharmasya tadaatmaanam Srujaanmyaham/

Having heard this, Markandeya was indeed thrilled and Bhagavan asked whether the Maharshi had any other clarification required. Markandeya replied that there had been a feeling about the Supremacy of Narayana versus Shiva and to dispel this doubt for the benefit of the posterity, he proposed to build a Temple of Shiva.  Bala Mukunda smiled and stated that he had already taken pains to clarify that there was indeed only one Supreme Shakti named as Narayana or Shiva, or Brahma or Indra or Devis, or Devatas or of myriad other Rupas but the cover of Maya made different interpretations, while indeed the Supreme Energy was one and only one despite ill-advised classifications made by human beings on the basis of various Forms, Names, Features, Gunas, Sex, and so on; indeed these men and women ascribed to various Deities either with ill-founded and misleading judgments or to  serve their own selfish gains or by sheer ignorance of realities; although Vedas and  Vedangas explained and highlighted specific aspects of that Supreme Force, the Public got confused and believed ‘the woods for the forest’.                                                                                       

Bhagavan thus said:

Yadetparamam Devam Kaaranam Bhuvaneshwaram,

Lingamaaraadhana -arthaaya naanaa bhaava prashaantaye/

Mamaadishidena Viprendra  kuru sheeghram Shivaalayam,

Tatprabhaavaacchiva lokey tishthatwam cha tathaakshayam/

Shivey Samsthaapitey Vipra mama Samsthaapanam bhavet,

Naavayorantaram kinchideka bhaavou dwidhaa krutou/

Yo Rudrah sa swayam Vishnuryo Vishnuh sa Maheswarah

Ubhayorantaram naasti Pavanaakaashayoriva/

Mohito naabhi jaanaatiya  yeva Garudhadhwajah,

Vrishabhaadhwajah sa yeveti Tripuraghnam Trilochanam/

Tavanaamaankitam tasmaakkuru Vipra Shivaalayam,

Uttarey Deva Devasya kuru teertham Sushobhanam/

Markandeya hrudo naama Naralokeshu Vishrutah,

Bhavishyati Dwija shreshtha Sarva Paapa pranaashanah/

(Hey Vipra! You must soon build a Temple in which Parama Shiva Linga should be set up for the Aradhana of Bhuvaneswara who was the cause of the Universe so that you would be blessed in Shiva Loka for ever. Indeed setting up a Shiva Linga would be as good as establishing my Pratima. There was no diffentiation in Shiva and Vishnu whatsoever as they were of the same Tatwa like that of Akaash and Vayu. Those ignortant of this reality was like those disrespecting Garudadhwaja and Vrishadhwaja. Hence, I instruct you to soon construct a Shivalaya to firmly establish the fact that Hara and Hari were just the same; I shall then materialize a Sarovara to be named as ‘Markandeya Hlaadam’ at the North of the Temple in which sincere bathing would demolish the person taking Snaana in it would be fully rid of the past sins and gain propitiousness.)                                                                                                                    

By so saying, Bala Mukunda blessed Markandeya and disappeared.