Happy Haumana Jayanti 22 April 2016
Friday, April 22, 2016
Sunday, April 17, 2016
Home Made Ghee
Had milk cream collecting in the fridge for months. Had stopped collecting - after I had a pan full.
Today, a hurried effort and cream was put on the gas.
And Voila ... I have my first batch of home made ghee made here in Bangalore
Today, a hurried effort and cream was put on the gas.
And Voila ... I have my first batch of home made ghee made here in Bangalore
Thursday, April 14, 2016
Annapurna Puja 2016
Today is Ashtami of Basanti Puja, the original Durga Puja which is still celebrated in parts of Bengal. This will end with Ram Navami, tomorrow, 15th April 2016 - which is also the birthday of Rama.
Interesting to note the connections between Rama and the two Durga Pujas. While the Autumn Puja is supposed to be the worship that was started by Rama, the Spring Puja ends with the birth of Rama.
The Ashtami of Basanti Puja is also celebrated as Annpurna Puja, where the holy mother is worshiped as Annapurna.
Once after a tiff with Shiva, Parvati vanished. Everything came to a stand still. There was no food. Seeing the suffering of the people, Parvati went to Kashi as Annapurna and started feeding people. Shiva went there with a bowl, and she happily fed Shiva.
Below is a translation of the Annapurna stotra.
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Home > Sanskrit Mantras & Slokas > Devi Annapoorna > Annapoorna Stotram: Nityananda Kari Varabhaya Kari - in sanskrit with meaning - Stotra on Devi Annapoorna
Annapoorna Stotram: Nityananda Kari Varabhaya Kari - in sanskrit with meaning - Stotra on Devi Annapoorna Stotra
- composed by Sri Adi Shankaracharya
अन्नपूर्णा स्तोत्रम् - नित्यानन्दकरी वराभयकरी सौन्दर्यरत्नाकरी
Annapoorna Stotram: Nityanandakari Varabhayakari Saundarya Ratnakari
नित्यानन्दकरी वराभयकरी सौन्दर्यरत्नाकरी
निर्धूताखिलघोरपावनकरी प्रत्यक्षमाहेश्वरी ।
प्रालेयाचलवंशपावनकरी काशीपुराधीश्वरी
भिक्षां देहि कृपावलम्बनकरी मातान्नपूर्णेश्वरी ॥१॥
Nitya-[A]ananda-Karii Vara-Abhaya-Karii Saundarya-Ratna-[A]akarii
Nirdhuuta-Akhila-Ghora-Paavana-Karii Pratyakssa-Maaheshvarii |
Praaleya-Acala-Vamsha-Paavana-Karii Kaashii-Pura-Adhiishvarii
Bhikssaam Dehi Krpa-Avalambana-Karii Maata-Annapuurnne[a-Ii]shvarii ||1||
Meaning:
1.1: (Salutations to Mother Annapoorna) Who always give Joy to Her Devotees, along with Boons and assurance of Fearlessness (under Her Motherly care); Who is a repository of great Beauty and makes their minds beautiful by the touch of the Gem of Her (inner) Beauty,
1.2: Who Purifies all the Poisons and Sufferings of their minds (by the touch of Her Compassion and Bliss), and Who is the Great Goddess manifested visibly in Kashi,
1.3: Who Sanctified the Lineage of the King of the Mountain of Himalayas (by taking birth as Devi Parvati); Who is the Ruling Mother of the city of Kasi,
1.4: O Mother Annapoorneswari, Please grant us the Alms of Your Grace; Your Grace which Support all the Worlds.
नानारत्नविचित्रभूषणकरी हेमाम्बराडम्बरी
मुक्ताहारविलम्बमानविलसद्वक्षोजकुम्भान्तरी ।
काश्मीरागरुवासिताङ्गरुचिरे काशीपुराधीश्वरी
भिक्षां देहि कृपावलम्बनकरी मातान्नपूर्णेश्वरी ॥२॥
Naanaa-Ratna-Vicitra-Bhuussanna-Karii Hema-Ambara-[A]addambarii
Muktaa-Haara-Vilambamaana-Vilasad-Vakssoja-Kumbha-Antarii |
Kaashmiira-Agaru-Vaasita-Angga-Rucire Kaashii-Pura-Adhiishvarii
Bhikssaam Dehi Krpa-Avalambana-Karii Maata-Annapuurnne[a-Ii]shvarii ||2||
Meaning:
2.1: (Salutations to Mother Annapoorna) Who is adorned with many Gems shining with various Colours, and with Garments striking with the shine of Gold (i.e. Golden Laced),
2.2: Who is decorated with a Garland of Pearls which is Hanging down and Shining within the middle of Her Bosom,
2.3: Whose Beautiful Body is Fragrant with Saffron and Agaru (Agarwood); Who is the Ruling Mother of the city of Kasi,
2.4: O Mother Annapoorneswari, Please grant us the Alms of Your Grace; Your Grace which Support all the Worlds.
योगानन्दकरी रिपुक्षयकरी धर्मार्थनिष्ठाकरी
चन्द्रार्कानलभासमानलहरी त्रैलोक्यरक्षाकरी ।
सर्वैश्वर्यसमस्तवाञ्छितकरी काशीपुराधीश्वरी
भिक्षां देहि कृपावलम्बनकरी मातान्नपूर्णेश्वरी ॥३॥
Yoga-[A]ananda-Karii Ripu-Kssaya-Karii Dharma-Artha-Nisstthaa-Karii
Candra-Arka-Anala-Bhaasamaana-Laharii Trailokya-Rakssaa-Karii |
Sarva-[A]ishvarya-Samasta-Vaan.chita-Karii Kaashii-Pura-Adhiishvarii
Bhikssaam Dehi Krpa-Avalambana-Karii Maata-Annapuurnne[a-Ii]shvarii ||3||
Meaning:
3.1: (Salutations to Mother Annapoorna) Who gives the Bliss of communion with God through Yoga, and Who destroys the attachment to the Senses (which are the enemies of Yogic communion); Who makes us devoted to Dharma and righteous effort to earn wealth (as a worship of God),
3.2: Who is like a great Wave shining with the Divine Energies of Moon, Sun and Fire which Protects the Three Worlds,
3.3: Who gives all Prosperity and fulfills all Wishes of the Devotees; Who is the Ruling Mother of the city of Kasi,
3.4: O Mother Annapoorneswari, Please grant us the Alms of Your Grace; Your Grace which Support all the Worlds.
कैलासाचलकन्दरालयकरी गौरी उमा शङ्करी
कौमारी निगमार्थगोचरकरी ओङ्कारबीजाक्षरी ।
मोक्षद्वारकपाटपाटनकरी काशीपुराधीश्वरी
भिक्षां देहि कृपावलम्बनकरी मातान्नपूर्णेश्वरी ॥४॥
Kailaasa-Acala-Kandara-[A]alaya-Karii Gaurii Umaa Shangkarii
Kaumaarii Nigama-Artha-Gocara-Karii Ongkaara-Biija-Akssarii |
Mokssa-Dvaara-Kapaatta-Paattana-Karii Kaashii-Pura-Adhiishvarii
Bhikssaam Dehi Krpa-Avalambana-Karii Maata-Annapuurnne[a-Ii]shvarii ||4||
Meaning:
4.1: (Salutations to Mother Annapoorna) Who has made the Caves of Mount Kailasa Her Abode, and is known by various names like Gauri, Uma, Shankari, ...
4.2: ... and Kaumari; Who makes the deepest meaning of Nigamas (Vedas or Sacred Scriptures) perceptible in Her Divine Form which vibrates with the Seed Syllable Omkara,
4.3: Who opens the Gate of Moksha (Liberation) within our (Spiritual) Heart by Her Grace; Who is the Ruling Mother of the city of Kasi,
4.4: O Mother Annapoorneswari, Please grant us the Alms of Your Grace; Your Grace which Support all the Worlds.
दृश्यादृश्यविभूतिवाहनकरी ब्रह्माण्डभाण्डोदरी
लीलानाटकसूत्रभेदनकरी विज्ञानदीपाङ्कुरी ।
श्रीविश्वेशमनःप्रसादनकरी काशीपुराधीश्वरी
भिक्षां देहि कृपावलम्बनकरी मातान्नपूर्णेश्वरी ॥५॥
Drshya-Adrshya-Vibhuuti-Vaahana-Karii Brahmaanndda-Bhaannddo[a-U]darii
Liilaa-Naattaka-Suutra-Bhedana-Karii Vijnyaana-Diipa-Angkurii |
Shrii-Vishvesha-Manah-Prasaadana-Karii Kaashii-Pura-Adhiishvarii
Bhikssaam Dehi Krpa-Avalambana-Karii Maata-Annapuurnne[a-Ii]shvarii ||5||
Meaning:
5.1: (Salutations to Mother Annapoorna) Who bears within Her many Visible and Invisible Divine Attributes, and holds the whole Universe within Her,
5.2: Who (by Her special Grace) discloses the (Divine) Source of this Divine Play of Creation, thereby sprouting the Flame of the Lamp of (Divine) Knowledge within us,
5.3: Who makes the Meditative Mind (i.e. Meditative Absorption) of Sri Visweswara Gracious, i.e. make it flow down as Divine Grace to the World; Who is the Ruling Mother of the city of Kasi,
5.4: O Mother Annapoorneswari, Please grant us the Alms of Your Grace; Your Grace which Support all the Worlds.
उर्वीसर्वजनेश्वरी भगवती मातान्नपूर्णेश्वरी
वेणीनीलसमानकुन्तलहरी नित्यान्नदानेश्वरी ।
सर्वानन्दकरी सदा शुभकरी काशीपुराधीश्वरी
भिक्षां देहि कृपावलम्बनकरी मातान्नपूर्णेश्वरी ॥६॥
Urvii-Sarva-Jane[a-Ii]shvarii Bhagavatii Maata-Annapuurnneshvarii
Vennii-Niila-Samaana-Kunta-Laharii Nitya-Anna-Daane[a-Ii]shvarii |
Sarva-[A]ananda-Karii Sadaa Shubha-Karii Kaashii-Pura-Adhiishvarii
Bhikssaam Dehi Krpa-Avalambana-Karii Maata-Annapuurnne[a-Ii]shvarii ||6||
Meaning:
6.1: (Salutations to Mother Annapoorna) Who is Mother Earth Herself and the Goddess of everyone, Whom the Devotees call as Bhagavati Mata Annapoorneswari,
6.2: Whose Dark Braids of Hair flow down like the Waves of Her Grace; Who (being Mother Earth Herself) is always devoted to bestowing Food to Her Children,
6.3: Who brings all Joys to the Devotees and Her presence always bring Good Fortunes in their lives; Who is the Ruling Mother of the city of Kasi,
6.4: O Mother Annapoorneswari, Please grant us the Alms of Your Grace; Your Grace which Support all the Worlds.
आदिक्षान्तसमस्तवर्णनकरी शम्भोस्त्रिभावाकरी
काश्मीरात्रिजलेश्वरी त्रिलहरी नित्याङ्कुरा शर्वरी ।
कामाकाङ्क्षकरी जनोदयकरी काशीपुराधीश्वरी
भिक्षां देहि कृपावलम्बनकरी मातान्नपूर्णेश्वरी ॥७॥
Aadikssa-Anta-Samasta-Varnnana-Karii Shambhos-Tri-Bhaava-[A]akarii
Kaashmiiraa-Tri-Jale[a-Ii]shvarii Tri-Laharii Nitya-Angkuraa Sharvarii |
Kaama-[A]akaangkssa-Karii Jano[a-U]dayakarii Kaashii-Pura-Adhiishvarii
Bhikssaam Dehi Krpa-Avalambana-Karii Maata-Annapuurnne[a-Ii]shvarii ||7||
Meaning:
7.1: (Salutations to Mother Annapoorna) Who makes all the Letters manifest from within Her, starting with "A" and ending in "Kssa", and is the repository of the Three Bhavas of Shambhu (Sattva, Rajas and Tamas leading to Creation, Preservation and Destruction of the Universe),
7.2: Who is Reddish in colour (signifying Shakti) and is the Goddess of the Three Waters (signifying the Three Shaktis) which flow as the Three Waves (of Iccha [Will], Jnana [Knowledge] and Kriya [Activity] Shaktis); thus always Sprouting creation with Her Feminine Power,
7.3: Who fulfills the various Wishes of the Devotees and Raises the lives of People (by providing Food and other essentials of worldly life); Who is the Ruling Mother of the city of Kasi,
7.4: O Mother Annapoorneswari, Please grant us the Alms of Your Grace; Your Grace which Support all the Worlds.
देवी सर्वविचित्ररत्नरचिता दाक्षायणी सुन्दरी
वामं स्वादुपयोधरप्रियकरी सौभाग्यमाहेश्वरी ।
भक्ताभीष्टकरी सदा शुभकरी काशीपुराधीश्वरी
भिक्षां देहि कृपावलम्बनकरी मातान्नपूर्णेश्वरी ॥८॥
Devii Sarva-Vicitra-Ratna-Racitaa Daakssaayannii Sundarii
Vaamam Svaadu-Payo-Dhara-Priya-Karii Saubhaagya-Maahe[a-Ii]shvarii |
Bhakta-Abhiisstta-Karii Sadaa Shubha-Karii Kaashii-Pura-Adhiishvarii
Bhikssaam Dehi Krpa-Avalambana-Karii Maata-Annapuurnne[a-Ii]shvarii ||8||
Meaning:
8.1: (Salutations to Mother Annapoorna) Who is studded with Gems of all Colours, and Who was the Beautiful Daughter of King Daksha,
8.2: Who holds a bowl of Sweet Milk (signifying Food) on Her Left which She endearingly distributes to Her Childen; Who is the Great Goddess Who brings Good Fortune to Her Devotees,
8.3: Who fulfills the Desires of the Devotees and always brings Good Blessings to them; Who is the Ruling Mother of the city of Kasi,
8.4: O Mother Annapoorneswari, Please grant us the Alms of Your Grace; Your Grace which Support all the Worlds.
चन्द्रार्कानलकोटिकोटिसदृशा चन्द्रांशुबिम्बाधरी
चन्द्रार्काग्निसमानकुन्तलधरी चन्द्रार्कवर्णेश्वरी ।
मालापुस्तकपाशासाङ्कुशधरी काशीपुराधीश्वरी
भिक्षां देहि कृपावलम्बनकरी मातान्नपूर्णेश्वरी ॥९॥
Candra-Arka-Anala-Kotti-Kotti-Sadrshaa Candra-Amshu-Bimba-Adharii
Candra-Arka-Agni-Samaana-Kuntala-Dharii Candra-Arka-Varnne[a-Ii]shvarii |
Maalaa-Pustaka-Paashaasa-Angkusha-Dharii Kaashii-Pura-Adhiishvarii
Bhikssaam Dehi Krpa-Avalambana-Karii Maata-Annapuurnne[a-Ii]shvarii ||9||
Meaning:
9.1: (Salutations to Mother Annapoorna) Whose Divine Splendour is like Millions and Millions of Moons, Suns and Fire; Whose Face shines like the Moon, radiating the Cool Rays of Compassion, which is also reflected on Her Red Lips resembling the Bimba Fruit,
9.2: (Similarly) Whose Locks of Hair Shine with the Splendour of the Moon, Sun and the Fire; and Who, the great Goddess, also has the Complexion radiating the Splendour of the Moon and the Sun,
9.3: Who holds a Rosary (signifying Repetition of God's name), Book (signifying Divine Knowledge), Noose (signifying Divine Attraction) and Hook (signifying Divine Goading) in Her four Hands; Who is the Ruling Mother of the city of Kasi,
9.4: O Mother Annapoorneswari, Please grant us the Alms of Your Grace; Your Grace which Support all the Worlds.
क्षत्रत्राणकरी महाऽभयकरी माता कृपासागरी
साक्षान्मोक्षकरी सदा शिवकरी विश्वेश्वरश्रीधरी ।
दक्षाक्रन्दकरी निरामयकरी काशीपुराधीश्वरी
भिक्षां देहि कृपावलम्बनकरी मातान्नपूर्णेश्वरी ॥१०॥
Kssatra-Traanna-Karii Mahaa-[A]bhaya-Karii Maataa Krpaa-Saagarii
Saakssaan-Mokssa-Karii Sadaa Shiva-Karii Vishveshvara-Shrii-Dharii |
Dakssaa-Kranda-Karii Niraamaya-Karii Kaashii-Pura-Adhiishvarii
Bhikssaam Dehi Krpa-Avalambana-Karii Maata-Annapuurnne[a-Ii]shvarii ||10||
Meaning:
10.1: (Salutations to Mother Annapoorna) Whose Great Power Protects the Devotees and grants them Great Fearlessness; Who is the Great Mother and an Ocean of Compassion,
10.2: Whose Divine Form is a Visible bestower of Liberation and Whose presence always brings Auspicious blessings; Who is indeed the repository of the Sri (Prosperity, Welfare and Auspiciousness) of Visweswara (Shiva),
10.3: Who makes Daksha (symbol of ego) Cry and in that repentence makes him Pure; Who is the Ruling Mother of the city of Kasi,
10.4: O Mother Annapoorneswari, Please grant us the Alms of Your Grace; Your Grace which Support all the Worlds.
अन्नपूर्णे सदापूर्णे शङ्करप्राणवल्लभे ।
ज्ञानवैराग्यसिद्ध्यर्थं भिक्षां देहि च पार्वति ॥११॥
Annapuurnne Sadaa-Puurnne Shangkara-Praanna-Vallabhe |
Jnyaana-Vairaagya-Siddhy[i]-Artham Bhikssaam Dehi Ca Paarvati ||11||
Meaning:
11.1: (Salutations to Mother Annapoorna) O Mother Annapoorna, You Who are always Full (with the gift of Food and Blessings), You Who are the Beloved of Shankara, ...
11.2: ... O Mother Parvati, Please grant me the Alms of Your Grace, to awaken within me Spiritual Knowledge and Freedom from all Worldly Desires.
माता च पार्वती देवी पिता देवो महेश्वरः ।
बान्धवाः शिवभक्ताश्च स्वदेशो भुवनत्रयम् ॥१२॥
Maataa Ca Paarvatii Devii Pitaa Devo Maheshvarah |
Baandhavaah Shiva-Bhaktaash-Ca Svadesho Bhuvana-Trayam ||12||
Meaning:
12.1: (Salutations to Mother Annapoorna) My Mother is Devi Parvati, and my Father is Deva Maheswara (Shiva),
12.2: My Friends are the devotees of Shiva, and my Country is all the Three Worlds (Whose Lord is Shiva-Parvati).
Interesting to note the connections between Rama and the two Durga Pujas. While the Autumn Puja is supposed to be the worship that was started by Rama, the Spring Puja ends with the birth of Rama.
The Ashtami of Basanti Puja is also celebrated as Annpurna Puja, where the holy mother is worshiped as Annapurna.
Once after a tiff with Shiva, Parvati vanished. Everything came to a stand still. There was no food. Seeing the suffering of the people, Parvati went to Kashi as Annapurna and started feeding people. Shiva went there with a bowl, and she happily fed Shiva.
Below is a translation of the Annapurna stotra.
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Home > Sanskrit Mantras & Slokas > Devi Annapoorna > Annapoorna Stotram: Nityananda Kari Varabhaya Kari - in sanskrit with meaning - Stotra on Devi Annapoorna
Annapoorna Stotram: Nityananda Kari Varabhaya Kari - in sanskrit with meaning - Stotra on Devi Annapoorna Stotra
- composed by Sri Adi Shankaracharya
अन्नपूर्णा स्तोत्रम् - नित्यानन्दकरी वराभयकरी सौन्दर्यरत्नाकरी
Annapoorna Stotram: Nityanandakari Varabhayakari Saundarya Ratnakari
नित्यानन्दकरी वराभयकरी सौन्दर्यरत्नाकरी
निर्धूताखिलघोरपावनकरी प्रत्यक्षमाहेश्वरी ।
प्रालेयाचलवंशपावनकरी काशीपुराधीश्वरी
भिक्षां देहि कृपावलम्बनकरी मातान्नपूर्णेश्वरी ॥१॥
Nitya-[A]ananda-Karii Vara-Abhaya-Karii Saundarya-Ratna-[A]akarii
Nirdhuuta-Akhila-Ghora-Paavana-Karii Pratyakssa-Maaheshvarii |
Praaleya-Acala-Vamsha-Paavana-Karii Kaashii-Pura-Adhiishvarii
Bhikssaam Dehi Krpa-Avalambana-Karii Maata-Annapuurnne[a-Ii]shvarii ||1||
Meaning:
1.1: (Salutations to Mother Annapoorna) Who always give Joy to Her Devotees, along with Boons and assurance of Fearlessness (under Her Motherly care); Who is a repository of great Beauty and makes their minds beautiful by the touch of the Gem of Her (inner) Beauty,
1.2: Who Purifies all the Poisons and Sufferings of their minds (by the touch of Her Compassion and Bliss), and Who is the Great Goddess manifested visibly in Kashi,
1.3: Who Sanctified the Lineage of the King of the Mountain of Himalayas (by taking birth as Devi Parvati); Who is the Ruling Mother of the city of Kasi,
1.4: O Mother Annapoorneswari, Please grant us the Alms of Your Grace; Your Grace which Support all the Worlds.
नानारत्नविचित्रभूषणकरी हेमाम्बराडम्बरी
मुक्ताहारविलम्बमानविलसद्वक्षोजकुम्भान्तरी ।
काश्मीरागरुवासिताङ्गरुचिरे काशीपुराधीश्वरी
भिक्षां देहि कृपावलम्बनकरी मातान्नपूर्णेश्वरी ॥२॥
Naanaa-Ratna-Vicitra-Bhuussanna-Karii Hema-Ambara-[A]addambarii
Muktaa-Haara-Vilambamaana-Vilasad-Vakssoja-Kumbha-Antarii |
Kaashmiira-Agaru-Vaasita-Angga-Rucire Kaashii-Pura-Adhiishvarii
Bhikssaam Dehi Krpa-Avalambana-Karii Maata-Annapuurnne[a-Ii]shvarii ||2||
Meaning:
2.1: (Salutations to Mother Annapoorna) Who is adorned with many Gems shining with various Colours, and with Garments striking with the shine of Gold (i.e. Golden Laced),
2.2: Who is decorated with a Garland of Pearls which is Hanging down and Shining within the middle of Her Bosom,
2.3: Whose Beautiful Body is Fragrant with Saffron and Agaru (Agarwood); Who is the Ruling Mother of the city of Kasi,
2.4: O Mother Annapoorneswari, Please grant us the Alms of Your Grace; Your Grace which Support all the Worlds.
योगानन्दकरी रिपुक्षयकरी धर्मार्थनिष्ठाकरी
चन्द्रार्कानलभासमानलहरी त्रैलोक्यरक्षाकरी ।
सर्वैश्वर्यसमस्तवाञ्छितकरी काशीपुराधीश्वरी
भिक्षां देहि कृपावलम्बनकरी मातान्नपूर्णेश्वरी ॥३॥
Yoga-[A]ananda-Karii Ripu-Kssaya-Karii Dharma-Artha-Nisstthaa-Karii
Candra-Arka-Anala-Bhaasamaana-Laharii Trailokya-Rakssaa-Karii |
Sarva-[A]ishvarya-Samasta-Vaan.chita-Karii Kaashii-Pura-Adhiishvarii
Bhikssaam Dehi Krpa-Avalambana-Karii Maata-Annapuurnne[a-Ii]shvarii ||3||
Meaning:
3.1: (Salutations to Mother Annapoorna) Who gives the Bliss of communion with God through Yoga, and Who destroys the attachment to the Senses (which are the enemies of Yogic communion); Who makes us devoted to Dharma and righteous effort to earn wealth (as a worship of God),
3.2: Who is like a great Wave shining with the Divine Energies of Moon, Sun and Fire which Protects the Three Worlds,
3.3: Who gives all Prosperity and fulfills all Wishes of the Devotees; Who is the Ruling Mother of the city of Kasi,
3.4: O Mother Annapoorneswari, Please grant us the Alms of Your Grace; Your Grace which Support all the Worlds.
कैलासाचलकन्दरालयकरी गौरी उमा शङ्करी
कौमारी निगमार्थगोचरकरी ओङ्कारबीजाक्षरी ।
मोक्षद्वारकपाटपाटनकरी काशीपुराधीश्वरी
भिक्षां देहि कृपावलम्बनकरी मातान्नपूर्णेश्वरी ॥४॥
Kailaasa-Acala-Kandara-[A]alaya-Karii Gaurii Umaa Shangkarii
Kaumaarii Nigama-Artha-Gocara-Karii Ongkaara-Biija-Akssarii |
Mokssa-Dvaara-Kapaatta-Paattana-Karii Kaashii-Pura-Adhiishvarii
Bhikssaam Dehi Krpa-Avalambana-Karii Maata-Annapuurnne[a-Ii]shvarii ||4||
Meaning:
4.1: (Salutations to Mother Annapoorna) Who has made the Caves of Mount Kailasa Her Abode, and is known by various names like Gauri, Uma, Shankari, ...
4.2: ... and Kaumari; Who makes the deepest meaning of Nigamas (Vedas or Sacred Scriptures) perceptible in Her Divine Form which vibrates with the Seed Syllable Omkara,
4.3: Who opens the Gate of Moksha (Liberation) within our (Spiritual) Heart by Her Grace; Who is the Ruling Mother of the city of Kasi,
4.4: O Mother Annapoorneswari, Please grant us the Alms of Your Grace; Your Grace which Support all the Worlds.
दृश्यादृश्यविभूतिवाहनकरी ब्रह्माण्डभाण्डोदरी
लीलानाटकसूत्रभेदनकरी विज्ञानदीपाङ्कुरी ।
श्रीविश्वेशमनःप्रसादनकरी काशीपुराधीश्वरी
भिक्षां देहि कृपावलम्बनकरी मातान्नपूर्णेश्वरी ॥५॥
Drshya-Adrshya-Vibhuuti-Vaahana-Karii Brahmaanndda-Bhaannddo[a-U]darii
Liilaa-Naattaka-Suutra-Bhedana-Karii Vijnyaana-Diipa-Angkurii |
Shrii-Vishvesha-Manah-Prasaadana-Karii Kaashii-Pura-Adhiishvarii
Bhikssaam Dehi Krpa-Avalambana-Karii Maata-Annapuurnne[a-Ii]shvarii ||5||
Meaning:
5.1: (Salutations to Mother Annapoorna) Who bears within Her many Visible and Invisible Divine Attributes, and holds the whole Universe within Her,
5.2: Who (by Her special Grace) discloses the (Divine) Source of this Divine Play of Creation, thereby sprouting the Flame of the Lamp of (Divine) Knowledge within us,
5.3: Who makes the Meditative Mind (i.e. Meditative Absorption) of Sri Visweswara Gracious, i.e. make it flow down as Divine Grace to the World; Who is the Ruling Mother of the city of Kasi,
5.4: O Mother Annapoorneswari, Please grant us the Alms of Your Grace; Your Grace which Support all the Worlds.
उर्वीसर्वजनेश्वरी भगवती मातान्नपूर्णेश्वरी
वेणीनीलसमानकुन्तलहरी नित्यान्नदानेश्वरी ।
सर्वानन्दकरी सदा शुभकरी काशीपुराधीश्वरी
भिक्षां देहि कृपावलम्बनकरी मातान्नपूर्णेश्वरी ॥६॥
Urvii-Sarva-Jane[a-Ii]shvarii Bhagavatii Maata-Annapuurnneshvarii
Vennii-Niila-Samaana-Kunta-Laharii Nitya-Anna-Daane[a-Ii]shvarii |
Sarva-[A]ananda-Karii Sadaa Shubha-Karii Kaashii-Pura-Adhiishvarii
Bhikssaam Dehi Krpa-Avalambana-Karii Maata-Annapuurnne[a-Ii]shvarii ||6||
Meaning:
6.1: (Salutations to Mother Annapoorna) Who is Mother Earth Herself and the Goddess of everyone, Whom the Devotees call as Bhagavati Mata Annapoorneswari,
6.2: Whose Dark Braids of Hair flow down like the Waves of Her Grace; Who (being Mother Earth Herself) is always devoted to bestowing Food to Her Children,
6.3: Who brings all Joys to the Devotees and Her presence always bring Good Fortunes in their lives; Who is the Ruling Mother of the city of Kasi,
6.4: O Mother Annapoorneswari, Please grant us the Alms of Your Grace; Your Grace which Support all the Worlds.
आदिक्षान्तसमस्तवर्णनकरी शम्भोस्त्रिभावाकरी
काश्मीरात्रिजलेश्वरी त्रिलहरी नित्याङ्कुरा शर्वरी ।
कामाकाङ्क्षकरी जनोदयकरी काशीपुराधीश्वरी
भिक्षां देहि कृपावलम्बनकरी मातान्नपूर्णेश्वरी ॥७॥
Aadikssa-Anta-Samasta-Varnnana-Karii Shambhos-Tri-Bhaava-[A]akarii
Kaashmiiraa-Tri-Jale[a-Ii]shvarii Tri-Laharii Nitya-Angkuraa Sharvarii |
Kaama-[A]akaangkssa-Karii Jano[a-U]dayakarii Kaashii-Pura-Adhiishvarii
Bhikssaam Dehi Krpa-Avalambana-Karii Maata-Annapuurnne[a-Ii]shvarii ||7||
Meaning:
7.1: (Salutations to Mother Annapoorna) Who makes all the Letters manifest from within Her, starting with "A" and ending in "Kssa", and is the repository of the Three Bhavas of Shambhu (Sattva, Rajas and Tamas leading to Creation, Preservation and Destruction of the Universe),
7.2: Who is Reddish in colour (signifying Shakti) and is the Goddess of the Three Waters (signifying the Three Shaktis) which flow as the Three Waves (of Iccha [Will], Jnana [Knowledge] and Kriya [Activity] Shaktis); thus always Sprouting creation with Her Feminine Power,
7.3: Who fulfills the various Wishes of the Devotees and Raises the lives of People (by providing Food and other essentials of worldly life); Who is the Ruling Mother of the city of Kasi,
7.4: O Mother Annapoorneswari, Please grant us the Alms of Your Grace; Your Grace which Support all the Worlds.
देवी सर्वविचित्ररत्नरचिता दाक्षायणी सुन्दरी
वामं स्वादुपयोधरप्रियकरी सौभाग्यमाहेश्वरी ।
भक्ताभीष्टकरी सदा शुभकरी काशीपुराधीश्वरी
भिक्षां देहि कृपावलम्बनकरी मातान्नपूर्णेश्वरी ॥८॥
Devii Sarva-Vicitra-Ratna-Racitaa Daakssaayannii Sundarii
Vaamam Svaadu-Payo-Dhara-Priya-Karii Saubhaagya-Maahe[a-Ii]shvarii |
Bhakta-Abhiisstta-Karii Sadaa Shubha-Karii Kaashii-Pura-Adhiishvarii
Bhikssaam Dehi Krpa-Avalambana-Karii Maata-Annapuurnne[a-Ii]shvarii ||8||
Meaning:
8.1: (Salutations to Mother Annapoorna) Who is studded with Gems of all Colours, and Who was the Beautiful Daughter of King Daksha,
8.2: Who holds a bowl of Sweet Milk (signifying Food) on Her Left which She endearingly distributes to Her Childen; Who is the Great Goddess Who brings Good Fortune to Her Devotees,
8.3: Who fulfills the Desires of the Devotees and always brings Good Blessings to them; Who is the Ruling Mother of the city of Kasi,
8.4: O Mother Annapoorneswari, Please grant us the Alms of Your Grace; Your Grace which Support all the Worlds.
चन्द्रार्कानलकोटिकोटिसदृशा चन्द्रांशुबिम्बाधरी
चन्द्रार्काग्निसमानकुन्तलधरी चन्द्रार्कवर्णेश्वरी ।
मालापुस्तकपाशासाङ्कुशधरी काशीपुराधीश्वरी
भिक्षां देहि कृपावलम्बनकरी मातान्नपूर्णेश्वरी ॥९॥
Candra-Arka-Anala-Kotti-Kotti-Sadrshaa Candra-Amshu-Bimba-Adharii
Candra-Arka-Agni-Samaana-Kuntala-Dharii Candra-Arka-Varnne[a-Ii]shvarii |
Maalaa-Pustaka-Paashaasa-Angkusha-Dharii Kaashii-Pura-Adhiishvarii
Bhikssaam Dehi Krpa-Avalambana-Karii Maata-Annapuurnne[a-Ii]shvarii ||9||
Meaning:
9.1: (Salutations to Mother Annapoorna) Whose Divine Splendour is like Millions and Millions of Moons, Suns and Fire; Whose Face shines like the Moon, radiating the Cool Rays of Compassion, which is also reflected on Her Red Lips resembling the Bimba Fruit,
9.2: (Similarly) Whose Locks of Hair Shine with the Splendour of the Moon, Sun and the Fire; and Who, the great Goddess, also has the Complexion radiating the Splendour of the Moon and the Sun,
9.3: Who holds a Rosary (signifying Repetition of God's name), Book (signifying Divine Knowledge), Noose (signifying Divine Attraction) and Hook (signifying Divine Goading) in Her four Hands; Who is the Ruling Mother of the city of Kasi,
9.4: O Mother Annapoorneswari, Please grant us the Alms of Your Grace; Your Grace which Support all the Worlds.
क्षत्रत्राणकरी महाऽभयकरी माता कृपासागरी
साक्षान्मोक्षकरी सदा शिवकरी विश्वेश्वरश्रीधरी ।
दक्षाक्रन्दकरी निरामयकरी काशीपुराधीश्वरी
भिक्षां देहि कृपावलम्बनकरी मातान्नपूर्णेश्वरी ॥१०॥
Kssatra-Traanna-Karii Mahaa-[A]bhaya-Karii Maataa Krpaa-Saagarii
Saakssaan-Mokssa-Karii Sadaa Shiva-Karii Vishveshvara-Shrii-Dharii |
Dakssaa-Kranda-Karii Niraamaya-Karii Kaashii-Pura-Adhiishvarii
Bhikssaam Dehi Krpa-Avalambana-Karii Maata-Annapuurnne[a-Ii]shvarii ||10||
Meaning:
10.1: (Salutations to Mother Annapoorna) Whose Great Power Protects the Devotees and grants them Great Fearlessness; Who is the Great Mother and an Ocean of Compassion,
10.2: Whose Divine Form is a Visible bestower of Liberation and Whose presence always brings Auspicious blessings; Who is indeed the repository of the Sri (Prosperity, Welfare and Auspiciousness) of Visweswara (Shiva),
10.3: Who makes Daksha (symbol of ego) Cry and in that repentence makes him Pure; Who is the Ruling Mother of the city of Kasi,
10.4: O Mother Annapoorneswari, Please grant us the Alms of Your Grace; Your Grace which Support all the Worlds.
अन्नपूर्णे सदापूर्णे शङ्करप्राणवल्लभे ।
ज्ञानवैराग्यसिद्ध्यर्थं भिक्षां देहि च पार्वति ॥११॥
Annapuurnne Sadaa-Puurnne Shangkara-Praanna-Vallabhe |
Jnyaana-Vairaagya-Siddhy[i]-Artham Bhikssaam Dehi Ca Paarvati ||11||
Meaning:
11.1: (Salutations to Mother Annapoorna) O Mother Annapoorna, You Who are always Full (with the gift of Food and Blessings), You Who are the Beloved of Shankara, ...
11.2: ... O Mother Parvati, Please grant me the Alms of Your Grace, to awaken within me Spiritual Knowledge and Freedom from all Worldly Desires.
माता च पार्वती देवी पिता देवो महेश्वरः ।
बान्धवाः शिवभक्ताश्च स्वदेशो भुवनत्रयम् ॥१२॥
Maataa Ca Paarvatii Devii Pitaa Devo Maheshvarah |
Baandhavaah Shiva-Bhaktaash-Ca Svadesho Bhuvana-Trayam ||12||
Meaning:
12.1: (Salutations to Mother Annapoorna) My Mother is Devi Parvati, and my Father is Deva Maheswara (Shiva),
12.2: My Friends are the devotees of Shiva, and my Country is all the Three Worlds (Whose Lord is Shiva-Parvati).
Saturday, March 19, 2016
Amlaki Ekadashi
Ekadashis have various names. Today. Saturday, 19th March 2016, is called Amlaki Ekadashi. There is an interesting tale told in the Brahmanda Purana. It is a conversation between king Mandhata and the sage Vasishta. The sage tells him about the greatness of the fast.
Amla or amlaki is a fruit which has many good qualities. It is said that consuming this fruit can cure many diseases.
The sage says fasting on this Ekadasi is more purifying than donating one thousand cows in charity to a pure brahmana.
There was once a kingdom named Vaidisha, where all the brahmanas, kshatriyas, vaishyas, and shudras were equally endowed with Vedic knowledge. The whole kingdom was full of Vedic sounds, not a single person was atheistic, and no one sinned. The ruler of this kingdom was King Pashabinduka, a member of the dynasty of Soma, the moon. He was also known as Chitraratha and was very religious and truthful. It is said that King Chitraratha had the strength of ten thousand elephants and that he knew the Vedic wisdom perfectly.
During his reign, not a single person in his kingdom attempted to practice another's duty. No one was poor and there was no drought or flood.The kingdom was free of disease, and everyone enjoyed good health. Twice a month everyone fasted on Ekadasi.
Once, in the month of Phalguna (February - March), the holy fast of Amalakii Ekadasi arrived, conjoined with Dvadasi. King Chitraratha realised that this particular fast would bestow especially great benefit, and thus he and all the citizens of Vaidisha observed this sacred Ekadasi very strictly, carefully following all the rules and regulations.
After bathing in the river, the king and all his subjects went to the temple of Vishnu, where an Amalaki tree grew. First the king and his leading sages offered the tree a pot filled with water, as well as a fine canopy, shoes, gold, diamonds, rubies, pearls, sapphires, and aromatic incense. Then they worshiped Lord Parashurama and then they prayed to the Amalaki tree.
After their prayers, King Chitraratha and his subjects remained awake throughout the night, praying and worshiping according to the regulations governing a sacred Ekadasi fast. It was during this auspicious time of fasting and prayer that a very irreligious man approached the assembly, a man who maintained himself and his family by killing animals. Burdened with both fatigue and sin, the hunter saw the king and the citizens of Vaidisha observing Amalaki Ekadasi by performing an all-night vigil, fasting, and worshiping Lord Vishnu in the beautiful forest setting, which was brilliantly illuminated by many lamps. The hunter hid nearby, wondering what this extraordinary sight before him was.
The hunter wondered what was happening. What he saw in that lovely forest beneath the holy Amalaki tree was the Deity of Lord Damodara being worshiped upon the Asana of a waterpot and he heard the devotees singing sacred songs describing Lord Krishna's transcendental forms and pastimes. Despite himself, that staunchly irreligious killer of innocent birds and animals spent the entire night in great amazement as he watched the Ekadasi celebration and listened to the glorification of the Lord.
Soon after sunrise, the king and his royal retinue - including the court sages and all the citizens - completed their observance of Ekadasi and returned to the city of Vaidisha. The hunter returned to his hut and happily ate his meal. In due time the hunter died, but the merit he had gained by fasting on Amalaki Ekadasi and hearing the glorification of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, as well as by being forced to stay awake all night, made him eligible to be reborn as a great king endowed with may chariots, elephants, horses, and soldiers. His name was Vasuratha, the son of King Viduratha, and he ruled over the kingdom of Jayanti.
King Vasuratha was strong and fearless Very charitable and every truthful, King Vasuratha always rendered loving devotional service to the Supreme Lord, Sri Vishnu. He therefore became very well versed in Vedic knowledge. Always active in the affairs of state, he enjoyed taking excellent care of his subjects, as though they were his own children. He disliked pride in anyone and would smash it when he saw it. He performed many kinds of sacrifices, and he always made certain that the needy in his kingdom received enough charity.
One day, while hunting in the jungle, King Vasuratha strayed from the footpath and lost his way. Wandering for some time and eventually growing weary, he paused beneath a tree and, using his arms as a pillow, fell asleep. As he slept, some barbarian tribesmen came upon him and, remembering their long standing enmity toward the king, began discussing among themselves various ways to kill him.
They prepared to kill King Vasuratha with various weapons, including spears, swords, arrows, and mystic ropes. But none of these deadly weapons could even touch the sleeping king, and soon they became frightened. Their fear sapped their strength, and before long they lost what little intelligence they had and became almost unconscious with bewilderment and weakness. Suddenly a beautiful woman appeared from the king's body, startling them. Decorated with many ornaments, emitting a wonderful fragrance, wearing an excellent garland around her neck, her eyebrows drawn in a mood of fierce anger, and her fiery red eyes ablaze, she looked like death personified. With her blazing chakra discus she quickly killed all the tribal hunters, who had tried to slay the sleeping king.
Just then the king awoke, and seeing all the dead tribesmen lying around him, he was astonished. He wondered who had slain them. At that very moment he heard a voice from the sky that he had been saved by Krishna.
Upon hearing these words, King Vasuratha became over-whelmed with love for Krishna. He returned to his capital city and ruled there like a second lord Indra, without any obstacles at all.
Ending his tale, the sage said , anyone who observes this holy Amalaki Ekadasi will undoubtedly attain the supreme abode of Lord Vishnu, so great is the religious merit earned from the observance of this most sacred fast day.
Amla or amlaki is a fruit which has many good qualities. It is said that consuming this fruit can cure many diseases.
The sage says fasting on this Ekadasi is more purifying than donating one thousand cows in charity to a pure brahmana.
There was once a kingdom named Vaidisha, where all the brahmanas, kshatriyas, vaishyas, and shudras were equally endowed with Vedic knowledge. The whole kingdom was full of Vedic sounds, not a single person was atheistic, and no one sinned. The ruler of this kingdom was King Pashabinduka, a member of the dynasty of Soma, the moon. He was also known as Chitraratha and was very religious and truthful. It is said that King Chitraratha had the strength of ten thousand elephants and that he knew the Vedic wisdom perfectly.
During his reign, not a single person in his kingdom attempted to practice another's duty. No one was poor and there was no drought or flood.The kingdom was free of disease, and everyone enjoyed good health. Twice a month everyone fasted on Ekadasi.
Once, in the month of Phalguna (February - March), the holy fast of Amalakii Ekadasi arrived, conjoined with Dvadasi. King Chitraratha realised that this particular fast would bestow especially great benefit, and thus he and all the citizens of Vaidisha observed this sacred Ekadasi very strictly, carefully following all the rules and regulations.
After bathing in the river, the king and all his subjects went to the temple of Vishnu, where an Amalaki tree grew. First the king and his leading sages offered the tree a pot filled with water, as well as a fine canopy, shoes, gold, diamonds, rubies, pearls, sapphires, and aromatic incense. Then they worshiped Lord Parashurama and then they prayed to the Amalaki tree.
After their prayers, King Chitraratha and his subjects remained awake throughout the night, praying and worshiping according to the regulations governing a sacred Ekadasi fast. It was during this auspicious time of fasting and prayer that a very irreligious man approached the assembly, a man who maintained himself and his family by killing animals. Burdened with both fatigue and sin, the hunter saw the king and the citizens of Vaidisha observing Amalaki Ekadasi by performing an all-night vigil, fasting, and worshiping Lord Vishnu in the beautiful forest setting, which was brilliantly illuminated by many lamps. The hunter hid nearby, wondering what this extraordinary sight before him was.
The hunter wondered what was happening. What he saw in that lovely forest beneath the holy Amalaki tree was the Deity of Lord Damodara being worshiped upon the Asana of a waterpot and he heard the devotees singing sacred songs describing Lord Krishna's transcendental forms and pastimes. Despite himself, that staunchly irreligious killer of innocent birds and animals spent the entire night in great amazement as he watched the Ekadasi celebration and listened to the glorification of the Lord.
Soon after sunrise, the king and his royal retinue - including the court sages and all the citizens - completed their observance of Ekadasi and returned to the city of Vaidisha. The hunter returned to his hut and happily ate his meal. In due time the hunter died, but the merit he had gained by fasting on Amalaki Ekadasi and hearing the glorification of the Supreme Personality of Godhead, as well as by being forced to stay awake all night, made him eligible to be reborn as a great king endowed with may chariots, elephants, horses, and soldiers. His name was Vasuratha, the son of King Viduratha, and he ruled over the kingdom of Jayanti.
King Vasuratha was strong and fearless Very charitable and every truthful, King Vasuratha always rendered loving devotional service to the Supreme Lord, Sri Vishnu. He therefore became very well versed in Vedic knowledge. Always active in the affairs of state, he enjoyed taking excellent care of his subjects, as though they were his own children. He disliked pride in anyone and would smash it when he saw it. He performed many kinds of sacrifices, and he always made certain that the needy in his kingdom received enough charity.
One day, while hunting in the jungle, King Vasuratha strayed from the footpath and lost his way. Wandering for some time and eventually growing weary, he paused beneath a tree and, using his arms as a pillow, fell asleep. As he slept, some barbarian tribesmen came upon him and, remembering their long standing enmity toward the king, began discussing among themselves various ways to kill him.
They prepared to kill King Vasuratha with various weapons, including spears, swords, arrows, and mystic ropes. But none of these deadly weapons could even touch the sleeping king, and soon they became frightened. Their fear sapped their strength, and before long they lost what little intelligence they had and became almost unconscious with bewilderment and weakness. Suddenly a beautiful woman appeared from the king's body, startling them. Decorated with many ornaments, emitting a wonderful fragrance, wearing an excellent garland around her neck, her eyebrows drawn in a mood of fierce anger, and her fiery red eyes ablaze, she looked like death personified. With her blazing chakra discus she quickly killed all the tribal hunters, who had tried to slay the sleeping king.
Just then the king awoke, and seeing all the dead tribesmen lying around him, he was astonished. He wondered who had slain them. At that very moment he heard a voice from the sky that he had been saved by Krishna.
Upon hearing these words, King Vasuratha became over-whelmed with love for Krishna. He returned to his capital city and ruled there like a second lord Indra, without any obstacles at all.
Ending his tale, the sage said , anyone who observes this holy Amalaki Ekadasi will undoubtedly attain the supreme abode of Lord Vishnu, so great is the religious merit earned from the observance of this most sacred fast day.
Friday, March 18, 2016
Petrichor
When I heard this term, I was amazed. I knew of petri being related to earth - from having heard and used a petridish, in school during biology practicals.
Chor by default relates in my mind to thief.
So a petrichor is a thief who steals petri :-)
It started raining this week after a very hot spell. And after the first rain, there is this fresh earthy smell that comes up, when the first drops of rain hit the land. Interestingly, this smell is call petrichor.
Interesting name for an aroma.
Chor by default relates in my mind to thief.
So a petrichor is a thief who steals petri :-)
It started raining this week after a very hot spell. And after the first rain, there is this fresh earthy smell that comes up, when the first drops of rain hit the land. Interestingly, this smell is call petrichor.
Interesting name for an aroma.
Tuesday, March 15, 2016
Bandel Cheese
Not wanting to sound cheesy, but there is a variety of cheese called the Bandel Cheese which is available probably in New Market , Kolkata only.
Bandel in Kolkata was a Portuguese settlement and they invented this kind of cheese. From far, it looks like dry mozzarella cheese rounds, but smaller - probably an inch in diameter.
Comes in two colors - white and brown. The cheese is made the way paneer is made from cow's milk. The cheese is then well salted, to help preserve it for long. The white one is plain cheese, while the brown one is a smoked variety, the smoking done with cow dung smoke.
Bandel in Kolkata was a Portuguese settlement and they invented this kind of cheese. From far, it looks like dry mozzarella cheese rounds, but smaller - probably an inch in diameter.
Comes in two colors - white and brown. The cheese is made the way paneer is made from cow's milk. The cheese is then well salted, to help preserve it for long. The white one is plain cheese, while the brown one is a smoked variety, the smoking done with cow dung smoke.
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