ESSENCE OF SIVA PURANA

Preface
Yaacchiva Puranam hi Paramam Sastram uttamam / Siva Rupam Kshitau Jneya Sevaniyam cha Sarvatha / Pathanaat chhravanaadasya Bhaktimannarasathamah / Sadyah
Siva paada praptim snabhatey Sarva Sadhanaat.
(This Siva Purana is a highly commended Scripture. Consider it as Lord Sivas own
manifestation on Earth and observe devotion to it always. Those who read or hear the
Purana shall be blessed instantly and shall attain Siva loka).
In a congregation of Sages at the Holy Forest of Naimisharanya headed by Sage
Saunaka, Suta Maha Muni (the Sage-in-Chief) described the fruits of Pathanam
(reading), Sravanam (hearing) and Mananam (cogitating) of Siva Purana. He declared
that only a person who had the blessings of previous births on account of past fruitful
deeds could become associated with the Holy Purana; similarly those who aspire to
acquire the blessings of Bhagavan Siva in future too could be associated with the Purana.
Siva Purana has an open and easy access, irrespective of any consideration to one all and
Bhagavan Siva, who had a history of easy and quick award of boons is pleased with small
services like reciting even half of a Stanza of the Purana- let alone reading the entire
Purana for the best results. Bhagavan Siva would readily absolve even the meanest sins
of varying descriptions if only a human being resolves to purify oneself with truthfulness
and dedication till the final stage of ones life. Asked by Sage Saunaka, Suta Muni
informed that Bhagavan Siva Himself authored the Purana originally and Maharshi Veda
Vyasa sought the permission of Sanatkumar for the benefit of posterity and Vyasas
disciple Romaharshana (alternatively Lomaharshana) recited this Great Kalpataru or the
Boon yielding Celestial Tree) to wash off the perennial sins of Kali Yuga. Siva Purana
contains Six Samhitas (Volumes) entitled Vidyesvara Samhita, Rudra Samhita, Shata
Rudra Samhita, Koti Samhita, Uma Samhita, Kailasa Samhita and Vayavaya Samhita;
each of these Samhitas is divided into chapters and even a condensed version duly read
would yield fruitful outcome.
Adyanta mangalam-ajata Samaana bhaavam-aryam tam-Esham-Ajaram-Atma Devam /
Panchananam Pancha Vinoda Sheelam Sambhaavaye manasi Shankaram-Ambikesham
(Let the Purana be evenly spread with propitiousness from the beginning till the end with
heartfelt prayers soliciting the benevolence of the Birthless, Five Faced, Five-sported, and
Shankara Deva united with Ambika.) Veda Vyasa prefacing Sri Siva Purana.

Bhagavan Siva describes Super Force as a Unified Entity of Trimurthis

At the very beginning of the Universe, manifestation of Lord Vishnu afloat on an endless
water surface was in Yoga Nidra (a state of Yogic Slumber) and from His navel sprouted
a Lotus stem on top of which was lying Brahma.The latter wondered who He was and
tried to ascertain the center of the Lotus and the its root for hundreds of years but in vain.
There came a Celestial Voice commanding Brahma to perform Tapasya and finally,
there appeared Lord Vishnu and sought to endear the former as His own creation. But
Brahma did not acknowledge Vishnu as a senior but defied and even fought with Him.
Meanwhile an Analstambha (a Pillar of Fire) representing Lord Siva appeared and both
Brahma and Vishnu agreed to discover the colossal Fiery Pillars height and depth ahead
of the other as a challenge to determine their mutual superiority; Brahma took the form of
Swan and flew high while Vishnu sported the form of a boar and travelled
down the massive Linga to find out the depth. Brahma while travelling up and up
caught hold of a Ketaki flower falling from above and made the flower lie to announce
that Brahma had discovered the top of the Pillar and provide evidence in His favour to
Vishnu. Bhagavan Siva Himself appeared and displayed His anger on Brahma and the
Ketaki flower. At the same time He was pleased with Vishnu for His truthfulness; Vishnu
even admitted that Brahma was greater on the basis of the wrong claim and the
misleading evidence of the Ketaki flower. Siva thus accorded the same status to Vishnu
but punished Brahma by slicing one of his erstwhile five heads looking upward; He also
cursed Brahma as ineligible for future worship by the Universe. As Brahma entreated
Bhagavan Siva, the latter obliged Brahma as the Presiding Deity at Yajnas (Sacrifices).
He banned Ketaki flower for pujas (Worship), but on its repentance approved of the
flower at Pujas to Vishnu. As all this drama happened on this specific night and all
concerned prayed to Bhagavan Siva for His Benevolence; the night had been observed as
Siva Ratri ever since.That was the first time that Bhagavan Siva assumed the Linga
form ( a cylindrical column) for worship. He affirmed that whoever worshipped Him that
night (Chaturdasi night of Magha Month in the Krishna Paksha) and the following day
would be blessed with the boon of a year long of worship to Him and would even be
pleased better than His affection for His Son Karthikeya!
Panchakrityas (Five Duties) of Main Deities prescribed by Siva
Bhagavan Siva advised Brahma, Vishnu and Rudra would all be of the same status. They
are essentially of the manifestations of His origin. They would carry out Panchakritya
or Five Duties viz. Srishti (Creation), Sthithi (Preservation) and Laya (Destruction),
Tirobhav (Concealment and Revival) and Anugraha (Providing Salvation). Srishti
would be performed by Brahma, Sthithi by Vishnu, and Laya by Rudra; the fourth task,
viz. Tirobhav would be performed by Mahesa, who would be yet His fourth
manifestation and finally the most significant task of Anugraha would be the exclusive
dispensation by Himself. After defining the first four duties as Sarga (Nature),
Bhagavan Siva taught the Mantra OM as the combined power of Himself and Shakti and
the extraordinary potency of the recitation of the Mantra.

The Mighty Power of Omkara and Panchakshari Mantras

Bhagavan Siva affirmed: Omkaro mammukhajjaagney pradhamam matprabhodhakah /
Vachakoyamaham vaachyo mantroyam hi madaatmakah/ tadananusmaranam nityam
mamanusmaranam bhavet.
( The word Omkaram emerged from Me first; whoever recites this Mantra always is on
My own track); A kara uttarapurvam u karah Paschima -ananat / Mkaro dakshina
mukhaad bindhuh pranamukhastatha / nado madhya mukha devam panchadhasau
vijrumbhitah / ( The letter A represents My Northward Face, U represents the
Westward, M stands for Southern Face, the Bindu connecting the three words A-U-M
is the Middle Faced Deva and the Fifth Face is over-awing.) A Singular Deity is thus
manifest as Omikakshara or as Siva Sakti that is all-pervasive and omni-potent.
Bhagavan Siva declared that continuous recitation of the Mantra Raja OM summing up
all the Vedas and Scriptures and representative of His Five Faces is a definite means of
Happiness during ones life time and Salvation thereafter. Omkara Mantra, thus
originated from the root letters of Akara, Ukara, Makara, Bindu and Nada (Sound) or
Panchakshariis the saviour Mantra gifted to Humanity which could be recited as Om
Sivaya namaha or the Siva Panchakshari as the Deergha Mantra or Gross Mantra or
simply as Hrasva Mantra in the word OM. In any case, the Triumvirate viz. Brahma,
Vishnu and Mahesa are amply displayed in the three letters A, U and M and together with
the fuller Panchakshari the complete display of Bindu and Nada, the fuller
demonstration of Siva Skati becomes prominent. Also, the Most Potent word of OM has
to be certainly used before any recitation of Vedas or Mantras as an unavoidable Starter!
By chanting Pranava Mantra nine crore times, it is said that one secures the power of
controlling the Pancha Bhutas or the Five elements of Nature and even breaks the basic
eight bondages of life viz. the Panchatanmatras (five sensory reactions of touch, smell,
sound, taste and appearance) as also control Nature, Intelligence and Ego.
Worship method of Siva Lingas
Bhagavan Siva advocated the methodology of worshipping Siva Linga, which could be
made of mud, rock or metal and be either Chara ( mobile) Linga or Sthira ( fixed)
Linga as per convenience. A movable Linga, which can be carried to places if needed,
should have a breadth of twelve times of the thickness of a hand finger of the concerned
devotee and twenty five times the thickness of the finger of the height and should have a
pedastal always.The Linga shoud be consecrated by continuosly reciting the Mantra Om
Namah Sivaya during the construction and consecration times. It is said that worship of
the Linga at midnight time is considered preferable. Recitation of the above Mantra five
crore times is considered highly fruitful.Worship along with Shodasopacharas or
sixteen kinds of Services is to be performed. [The Services are: Asana or Seating,
Padyam water for washing the Deitys feet, Arghya or water for sipping, Snana or
Body wash, Anulepana smearing the Deitys Body with Ash, Gandham etc.; Dhupam
or Inscense, Dipam offering lights with oil-soaked cotton vicks, Naivedyam or
offering Food and fruits, Tambula or betel leaves and nuts, Paneeya offer of Ganges
water / coconut water, Vastram or clothing, Alankaram or ornamentation by holy

leaves of Bilva, flowers etc; Gandham or Sandal paste, Achamaniya Ganga water for
sipping and Arati or camphor lighting and finally the most important Mantra Pushpa
or Vedic Chanting and Stotras as well as Vedic Hymns of Namakam and Chamakam/
Mahanyasam.] The worships are commended specially on the banks of Holy Rivers like
Ganga, Sindhu or Sarasvati or at the Temples on the banks of any other Rivers like,
Yamuna, Narmada, Godavari, Kaveri, and so on. Worship at Sacred Places like Badari,
Kedar, Kasi and at other Dvadasa Linga Kshetras is highly recommended. On Sundays
such worships are notably recommended for Siva Pujas, while Mondays are significant
for Durga, Tuesdays for Kartikeya, Wednesdays for Vishnu, Thursdays for Lord Yama,
Fridays for Brahma and Saturdays for Indra and other Planetary Heads. While Siva Linga
Pujas performed at the Puja-designated places in ones residence are nodoubt significant,
such worships at Cow-sheds are ten times more beneficial; the Pujas conducted in
Temples in the precincts of Tulasi ( Basil plant) are ten times more fruitful; further ten
times more beneficial with multiplier effect at Sea shores, mountain tops, and so on. But
the best worship is with Bahyantara Suchi or Physical and inner purity! The most
auspicious timings for the Worship of Siva Lingas are the days coinciding Surya
Sankranti, Tula and MeshaSankrantis, as also Lunar and Solar Eclipse days. In the
normal course, Siva Linga Pujas are best performed during the Magha month and on
every Krishna Chaturdasi days. On every day of Kartik Month, a full fledged worship
along with Agni Homas are specifically fruitful for ensuring excellent health, particularly
related to long standing diseases? Most importantly, regular Siva Linga Pujas on every
Sundays would bless the devotees with Happiness in their life times and Salvation
thereafter!
Major kinds of Siva Lingas are Svayambhu Linga, Bindu Linga, Pratishtha Linga,
Chara Linga, and Guru Linga. Again, there are Lingas of Gross Nature, devotion of
which is meant for fulfillment of Material desires and also Subtle Lingas aiming at
Spiritual Bliss and Salvation. The Parthiva Lingas are however the most commended,
especially suited for Kali Yuga just as Ganges is the best of the Rivers, Kashi is the best
place of pilgrimage and Omkara is the best Mantra. Getting clean in physique and mind,
wearing Rudraksha mala by neck and Bhasma on forehead, chanting names of Siva like
Hara, Mahadeva, Soolapani, Pinakadhrik, Pasupati and Mahesa, the Parthiva Linga is
immersed in a river or a water body, or placed on a pedestal in a forest area or a
mountain. One should keep on reciting Siva Panchakshari, viz. Om Namaha Sivaya and
perform worship as prescribed in the Scriptures. Starting from Ganesh Puja and Planetary
Heads, Devi Bhagavati and the Ultimate Deity of Siva, the worship is best performed
facing North, along with the Sixteen Services with high devotion and commitment for
fulfillment of desires ranging from good health, longevity, wealth and nishkama
moksha. The service of bilva puja, abhisheka( Vedic bath of milk, coconut water and
finallyof ash or bhasma and so on along with Naivedya are an integral part of the
worship. More specifically, each service be designated by addressing the Lord as follows:
Om Namah Sivaya- Prokshana (sprinkling of water) on various Puja materials; Om
Namah Rudraya-Kshetra Suddhi (Purification of surroundings); Om Namah
Nilagreevaya-Panchamrita prokshanam (sprinkling of mixture of milk, curd, sugar,
honey, fruit); Om Mahesaya Namah-Asanam ( Seating); Om Paramesvaraya NamahNyasamor identification of self with by Paramesvara by offering the entirety to Him;

Om namah Visvarupaya-Padyam or water for cleaning His feet; recitation of Rudra

Gayatri [ Om Bhur Bhuvah Svaha Om Tatpurushaya Vidmahe Maha Devaya Dheemahi
Tanno Rudrah prachodayaat]; Om Ghrishnaya Namah- Uttareeyam ( clothing); Om
Parthaya Namah-Bilva Patra Puja; Om Kapardineya Namah-Dhupam ( incense sticks);
Om Jyeshthaya Namah-Dadhyanna or curd rice Naivedyam; Om Rudraya NamahPhalam or fruits; Om Vrajaya Namah- Sakalam or every thing; Om Hiranya Garbhaya
Namah- Dakshina or Present to the Pandit performing the worship; Om Devasya NamahAbhishekam; Om Sambho namah- Neerajanam or Aarathi; Om Parama Sivaya
Namah- Sashtanga Namaskara and offerings of Siva Mudras]. Keeping in mind the
Five Faced Bhagavan with the names of Sadyojata, Vamadeva, Aghora, Tatpurusha and
Esana, one concludes the worship by reciting: Bhavaya, Bhavanasakaya, Mahadevaya,
Dhimahi / Ugraya, Ugranasaya, Sarvaaya, Sashi Mouliney!
While performing the Worship to Siva Lingas, significance is attached of applying
Bhasmas or wearing Rudrakshas. Maha Bhasmas are to be applied only after
securing the burnt cow dung cakes in Agneya Bhasmas ( homams) or in the course of
Yagnas while reciting Mantras and only the former varietyis used for Tripundras
invariably by Brahmanas and Svalpa Bhasmascould be used by others with devotion.
Rudrakshas are available in a wide variety from the trees which in the days of yore
sprouted from the tears of Siva Bhagavan- which eventually became large water bodies
when He concentrated with wide eyes open for several years to create a powerful
weapon known as Aghora to destroy a Demon called Tripurasura. This special tree
yielded beads which are the Rudrakshas now worn by devotees for excellent results,
depending on the number of cuts on the bead- faces and the corresponding Devatas
giving away boons the desired virtues or results. Eka Mukhi Rudraksha is considered as
Bhagavan Siva Himself providing the greatest boons of destroying even the worst sins
including Maha Patakas.(Eka vaktram Sivah Sakshat Vimukti Phala pradam). TwoFaced Rudraksha is represented by Deva and Devi; the Three Faced one bestows all kinds
of Vidyas; The Four Faced one is Brahma; the Fifth Faced is Rudra; the Sixth is
Kartikeya; the Seventh is Manmadha; eighth is Bhairava; ninth is Durga, Ten- Faced is
Janardana; Eleventh is Paramesvari; Twelfth is Aditya; Thirteenth is Visva Deva and
Fourteenth is Parama Siva Himself. The Mantras that the persons wearing the Faces
respectively are: Eka Mukhi: Om Hrim Namah; 2) Om Namah 3) Om Kleem Namah 4)
Om Hreem Namah 5) Om Hreem Namah 6) Om Hreem Hum Namah 7) Om Hum Namah
8) Om Hreem Hum Namah 9) Om Hreem Hum Namah 10) Om Hreem Namah Namah
11) Om Hreem Hum Namah 12) Om Kraum Kshaum Roum Namah 13) Om Hreem
Namah and 14) Om Namah.
Yashya Nisvasitam Vedah (Who exhaled Vedas?)-Super Energy creates Vishnu
While concluding Vidyesvara Samhita and opening Rudra Samhita, Veda Vyas
described Srishthi Kanda (Process of Creation) as was narrated by Suta Muni to Sages.
At the stage of Maha Pralaya or the Great Dissolution of Universe, there was nothing
except Bhagavan Siva. He assumed His Power as Bhagavati Amba and together they
created Maha Vishnu. As a child the latter enquired of the cause of His existence and
Siva provided His breathing as Vedas and their full knowledge to Vishnu. He also

commanded Vishnu to carry out penance, which the latter did for twelve years but could
not visualize Siva and Amba again. A voice was heard that Vishnu should continue
penance again. Eventually Vishnu found self lulled into yogic sleep and got floated on a
huge sheet of Ocean which emerged as fountains from Bhagavan Sivas skin- pores in all
directions; Vishnu was named Narayana. He created the Basic Five Elements of Earth,
Fire, Sky, Wind and Water; the Thee Gunas (attributes) of Satvic, Rajas and Tamas
nature, besides Ahamkara or Ego; the Five Tanmathras viz. Sparsha(Touch), Sabda
(sound), Rupa (Colour and Form), Rasa (taste) and Gandha (smell); the Five
Jnanendriyas (Skin, Ears, Eyes, Tongue and Nose) and Five Senses viz. (Touch, Hear,
See, Taste and Breath). In total, there were twenty four features thus created by Maha
Vishnu. As ordained by Bhagavan Siva a Lotus Flower sprouted from Vishnus navel in
Yoga Nidra and on top of the lotus stalk there was Brahma on the top who sought to
travel down the hollow stalk but failed and returned to Vishnu and fought Him to assert
His superiority over Vishnu.Thus followed the Drama of Analstambha appearing, the
cheating by Brahma, Bhagavan Siva cutting one of the Five Heads of Brahma as a
punishment, declaring Maha Vishnu as the Senior, alloting the tasks to Brahma to create,
Vishnu to preserve and Rudra to Dissolve, and so on. Then emerged the Omkara Mantra A signifying Creation, U for Preservation and M for destruction. The sum of the
word OM manifested as a Golden Egg was submerged in waters for thousands of years
and when Bhagavan Siva cut the Egg into two parts, one half appeared as Earth and the
other half as heaven. From Sivas physique emanated the vowels and consonants and
Vishnu discovered the Forty Eight Lettered mantras from Omkara the most significant
Duel Mantra Expressions viz. Tatpurushaya Vidmahe Maha Devaya Dhimahi Tanno
Rudrah Prachodayat and Tatsavitur varenyam Bhargo Devasya Dhimahi Dhiyoyona
Prachotayat. Therafter emerged the following Mantras :- The Mrutyunjaya Mantra: Om
Joong sah; Hraung Hring Joong Sah and Trayambakam Yaja mahe; Namah Sivaya; the
Chintamani Mantra Kshayaum; the Dakshina Murti Mantra : Om Namo Bhagavate
Dakshina Murthaye Mahyam Megham Prayaccha Swaha; Tatvamasi and so on.
Trinitys Consorts and their Ages
Bhagavan Siva demonstrated that His left half was Vishnu and His right half was
Brahma who also created Rudra for the purpose of Destruction. Bhagavan Siva then
revealed Bhagavati Uma as His consort or Nature or Maya (The Great Illusion);
Lakshmi as Lord Vishnus Consort and Sarasvati as Brahmas Consort.Bhagavan Siva
also indicated the Ages of Brahma, Vishnu and Rudra: Brahmas one day consists of
four thousand eras and additionally one night comprises another four thousand eras. His
age being one hundred years, Brahmas one day and night are multiplied by three
hundred sixty five days. His life time is eight thousand eras multiplied by three hundred
sixty five day/nights further multiplied by one hundred years! One day/night of Vishnu is
one year of Brahma and the formers age is hundred years too. As regards Rudra, His one
day/night is that of Vishnus one year and Rudras age too is of the duration of hundred
years.

Brahma creates Rudra and Universe

Once Bhagavan Siva made the rudimentary aspects of Srishti (Creation) like Vishnu and
Brahma, carved out the responsibilities of Trinity, their Consorts and ages as also the
Pranava Mantra, Five Basic Elements, The Three Gunas, the Pancha Tanmatras, the
Five Sensory Organs, and so on and disappered. Brahma created water and a Huge Egg
into which Vishnu provided consciousness to the Egg and sat in. Creation proceeded
further as Kailash Mountain and the Seven Worlds. Brahma being still unsatisfied at His
performance, He used Tamo Guna to create all static things and four footed animals,
Satvika Guna to produce Deities and, Rajas Guna to produce Human beings. Each time,
Brahma accomplished a part of Creation; He was lost in penance intermittenly and thus
carried on the task. With the approval of Bhagavan Siva, Lord Brahma created Rudra
from His eyebrows, half of Rudra being Ardhanareesvara or Half Man and HalfWoman. Rudra in turn created Rudra Ganas (all resembling Himself) and as requested by
Brahma, created mortals since that was a task of annihilation meant for Rudra Himself.
Brahma then created Sages Marichi from His eyes, Bhrigu from heart, Angira from head,
Pulah from Vyana Vayu, Pulasthya from Udana Vayu, Vasishtha from Samana
Vayu,Kratu from Apana Vayu, Atri from ear, Daksha Prajapati from Prana Vayu, Narada
from lap, Kardama and Dharma from His shadows, and Manasa Putras viz. Sanaka,
Sananda, Sanatana, Sanath Kumars, two halves of His body as Manu and Satarupa and
they gave birth to Priyavratha and Uttanapad as sons respectively; Satarupa also gave
birth to Akuti married to Sage Ruchi, Devahuti to Sage Kardama, and Daksha Prajapati to
Prasuti. The various Sages and others thus created by Brahma procreated progenies and
filled in the entire World eventually. For instance, Marichis son Kashyapa who married
thirteen of the sixty daughters of Daksha, had procuced several clans of the Universe
including Daityas, Serpents and vicious species born of Diti and Devas from Aditi.
Bhagavan Siva decided to reside at Kailash nearby Kuberas abode
Narada Devarshi sought explanations from Brahma as why did Bhagavan Siva decide to
reside in Kailasa? Brahma explained thus: A Brahmana named Yogadutta, an expert in
performing Soma Yajna, had a son Gunanidhi a Scholar but got attracted to evil ways like
gambling.Yogadutta became angry and abandoned Gunanidhi and even his wife. Having
become highly remorseful, Gunanidhi left his home and on one night reached a temple
where Sivas devotees were observing the Sivaratri fast and heard the Stories of Sivas
greatness and hymns. But being hungry he sought to steal some fruits and light up a lamp
which was almost dim by tearing his cloth and re-lighting it. But the devotees caught
him, mistook him as a thief, thrashed him up and he died. The Yamabhatas or the
followers of Lord Yama arrived and planned to take away the soul of Gunanidhi; but
Sivaganas were happy with Gunanidhi and took him to Sivaloka instead since he spent
Sivaratri fasting in a Siva temple, observed the whole night hearing Sivas stories and
hymns and even lit up a lamp with his own cloth piece as a vick. In the next birth,
Gunanidhi became a King of Kalinga as Dama and a staunch devotee of Siva, ordered his
subjects to observe Siva Pujas and Sivaratri fasts compulsory and thus got endeared by
Bhagavan. In the subsequent birth Gunanidhi/ Dama became Kubera as the King of
Alkapuri. During the next Kalpa named Meghavahan, the same Gunanidhi of the

previous births, became the King of Alkapuri as Vishravan, (the grandson of Sage
Pulastya-Brahmas manasa putra) and as an unparalleled Devotee of Bhagavan Siva did
penance for lakhs of years; Siva and Bhagavati Uma were pleased and appeared before
Gunanidhi / Kubera / Vishravan but the radiance of their appearance blinded him and
when he regained the yogic sight the devotee became instantly so possessive of Bhagavan
that even Uma should not be so near to Bhagavan! Immensely pleased, Bhagavan decided
to shift His residence to Kailash Mountain which was nearby Alkapuri and ordered
Visvakarma to build His permanent residence there!
Links of Devis Sandhya- Arundhati- Sati and Girija
Lord Brahma replied to another question of Sage Narada as to how Lord Rudra a Super
Yogi married Devi Sati. As a preface to the reply, Lord Brahma described a bit of His
own auto-biography about His Manasic (mind born) children viz. Sandhya and
Manmadha. He got infatuated with Sandhya and Rudra Deva chastised Brahma, who felt
bad at the reprimand and was on the look out for an opportunity to prove that Rudra Deva
too should one day be a victim of passion. Lord Vishnu advised against such attempts as
Rudra Deva was far above such a mind-set. Meanwhile Sandhya could not overcome the
feeling of shame caused to her by Brahma and did penance for thousands of years under
the tutelage of Sage Vasishtha (who disguised as a Brahmana, named Medatithi, at the
instance of Lord Brahma) and prayed to Bhagavan Siva with the Potent Mantra Om
Namo Shankaraya Namaha Om as also the method of worship to Bhagavan Siva. Since
her prayers were not responded, she prepared herself to jump into the Agni kunda (Fire
Pit) of a Yagna being then performed by Medatithi, her Guru. Rudra Deva made His
vision to Sandhya and asked her for boons. She desired that none in her clan should
become a victim of lust, that she should be an example of a chaste woman and that her
husband should never cast an evil eye on another woman. Rudra Deva agreed to her
boons and advised her to fall in the fire pit thinking of a person whom she desired as her
husband in her next birth. He further blessed Sandhya that in the birth subsequent to her
next birth, she would be born as Sati Devi to Daksha Prajapati and her further birth
thereafter would be the daughter of Himaraja as Girija Devi Herself! Having heard Rurda
Deva about His supreme blessing about the future vision, Devi Sandhya leapt into the fire
pit thinking of Medathithi as her next husband; indeed Medatidhi was actually Sage
Vasishtha himself! The Prana Vayu or the Vital Air of Sandhyas burnt body in the fire
pit was absorbed by Bhagavan Himself and the fire of the Yagna was carried to the Solar
System and Sun God transformed it as Pratas Sandhya, Madhyahnika Sandhya and
Sayam Sandhya or the Morning, afternoon and Evening timings of a Day. The Sages at
the Yagna were awe-struck that Sandhya Devi was reborn as a girl child in the Fire pit
itself , named Arundhati and when she attained of age, she was married to Sage Vasishta
as the function was attended by Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesa themselves. Devi Arundhati
is a unique example of chastity in the annals of History till date. [The practice of Vedic
weddings continues even now and all the new couples as a part of the Rituals are shown
the Star of Arundhati as an ideal example].

Sati Devis wedding to Rudra Deva

Brahma gave a boon to His son Manmadha or Pushpavan with the powers of turning
passionate any victim with the use of Pancha Pushpa Banas(Five Flowery Arrows)
called Harshan, Rohan, Mohan, Soshan and Maran. The test-run was performed by
Manmatha on Brahma and he got victimised in respect of Sandhya and hence the
chastisement received from Rudra Deva. Brahmas ill-feeling over Rudra was still not
forgotten inspite of Lord Vishnus advice that Rudra Deva would never be disturbed by
Manmadhas arrows. At this juncture, Daksha Prajapati offered his daughter, Rati Devi to
wed Manmadha, which was appreciated by all concerned as the couple looked that they
were made for each other. Brahma prevailed His son Daksha Prajapati to beget a
daughter with Devi Bhagavatis Amsa (part manifestation) and Daksha prayed to Her
for thousands of years. Devi Bhagavati blessed Daksha to beget Sati Devi and that she
would also be wedded to Rudra Deva. But, Sati Devi would perform penance for
thousands of years and once she would be married, she would not brook insults to Rudra
Deva and if anybody did so, then She would end up her existence by Yoga-agni!
Daksha had got already sixty daughters all married - ten to Dharma, thirteen to Kashyap,
twenty seven to Moon, two to Bhutaganas, and two to Kushashva and six to Garuda. The
sixty first daughter now blessed by Bhagavati was Sati Devi from Virani Devi. As Sati
came of marriagable age, she had already fixed Her mind on Rudra and performed severe
tapas. Rudra agreed to wed Sati, Brahma proposed formally to Daksha and the marriage
was executed with pomp and show. After the auspicious wedding, Sati and Rudra shifted
from Kailash to Himalayas for ten thousand Deva years and Bhagavan enlightened and
exchanged views with Sati on many matters of Spiritual significance including the
naunces of Yantra, Tantra and Yoga.
Destruction of Daksha Yagna by Virabhadra
In the mean time, Dakshas jealousy towards Bhagavan gradually picked up momentum
and at a Yagna organised by the former, there was no place for the usually reserved
Havis or a major part of the Yagna in favour of Lord Siva; the seat reserved for Siva
was unoccupied and Sage Dadhichi pointed out the lacuna but was ignored. Sati Devi felt
that Her father made a mistake and despite the denial of Bhagavan proceeded to the
Yagna to ascertain the position.Very reluctantly, Bhagavan agreed and Sati was escorted
by Nandi and Rudraganas. Daksha ignored his daughters entry and of the Rudraganas
into the Yagna Place. When confronted by Sati about Her husbands absence, Daksha
had openly ridiculed Siva as an uncouth, ill- deserving and uncivilised personality. Devi
Sati could not take the insults about Her husband and thus produced Yogic Fire and
ended Herself to unite with Bhagavan. As Nandi informed Siva of the tragedy, the latter
threw a few of His hairs against a mountain in a heightened rage and the energy created
thus broke the mountain into two parts; one half of it produced Virabhadra and another
Bhadrakali whom Siva instructed for the destruction of Daksha Yagna, Daksha and
whoever else attended the Yagna too. Virabhadra appeared at the site of the Yagna
instantly along with a huge army of Sivaganas including Dakini, Bhairava and Kapalini
while Bhadrakali entered the Place with the nine incarnations of Bhagavati like
Katatyani. As Daksha got terrified of the consequences of the situation, he took refuge at

Maha Vishnu who expressed His helplessness and reprimanded Daksha for his
foolishness in provoking his own daughter to take away Her life. Vishnu Himself
attended the Daksha Yagna and several Devatas too. Vishnu had to fight Virabhadra and
Bhagavans party. It was rather ironical that this happened. A celestial voice confirmed
that Virabhadra was invincible but meanwhile several Devas too were killed and Vishnu
too desisted from the battle. Virabhadra severed Dakshas head and threw it in the
Agnikunda (Fire pit) and returned to Rudra Deva along with his entourage.The irony of
Vishnus fighting Virabhadra to defend Himself and the Devas many of whom were all
killed and He himself had to be defensive had a background; indeed Vishnu was aware of
this. A King called Kushva and Sage Dadhichi were good friends earlier but the ego
(Ahamkara) of each other turned out to be mighty enemies. Kushva prayed to Vishnu and
Dadhichi looked to Siva for help. Vishnu was pleased with Kushvas penance and agreed
to punish Sage Dadhichi and even used Sudarshana Chakra which proved futile, as
Dadhichi was fortified with several years of devotion and Sacrifice along with constant
Japa (meditation) of Mritunjaya Mantra under the guidance of Sukracharya. Finally,
Dadhichi condoned Kushva but did not excuse Vishnu and his Deities and gave the curse
that they would all be turned as ash in a fight with Sivas part- incarnation (Virabhadra).
Eventually, Lord Brahma approached Maha Deva to pardon and revive the lives of
Vishnu and Devas who were burnt in the battle with Virabhadra. A sobered and ever
merciful Siva conceded to the prayers of Brahma that not only Vishnu be pardoned but
those Devas who were burnt off in the cross fire with Virabhadra be revived but also
allow a revitalized Daksha Prajapati with life by placing the Yagnas Goat- head on to
Dakshas severed head thrown out by Virabhadra in the Fire pit and thus Daksha had a
Goat- head thereafter. The ever grateful Daksha begged of Maha Deva for his pardon and
prayed to Him with great sincerity and devotion everafter. He then performed a Yagna
again with Maha Deva on the High Seat and with all the Devas to receive their blessings!
Devi Parvatis wedding with Bhagavan Siva
Of the sixty daughters of Daksha Prajapati, Svadha was married to Pitras and gave birth
to Maina, Dhanya and Kalavati. The three of them after coming of age decided to have a
Darshan ( casual view) of Lord Vishnu at Svethadvipa and among the visitors inwaiting were the Highly respected Sanaka Brothers but the three girls could not recognise
them as they were offended and cursed them to take births on earth. Indeed the girls did
not recognise them and begged of the Sages to lighten the curse. Since the girls were
indeed unaware of the background of the illustrious Kumars, they blessed Maina to
become the wife of King Himavantha and beget Jagadisvari Herself; Dhanya would
wed King Janaka and bless them with Devi Sita to wed Sri Rama; and Kalavati would
marry Vrishabhan and bless Radha Devi as the special devotee cum beloved of Lord
Krishna. Accordingly Maina Devi became the wife of Himavanta. Vishnu blessed the
Himavanta couple with hundred virtuous sons and a daughter that the couple would
indeed be proud of as She would be the Jadamba Herself! The Sons were born with wings
but out of envy, Indra clipped the wings of all of them, except Minak who hid inside the
Ocean as a mountain [who helped Lord Hanuman while crossing the Ocean to reach
Lanka in His reconnaisance trip to find Devi Sita in the bondage of Ravana Asura.] The
only daughter of Himavanta viz. Devi Parvati even from childhood became an intense

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devotee of Bhagavan Siva and had constant dreams of Her worship to Him in person.
Both Himavanta and Queen Maina too had similar dreams regularly. Meanwhile,
Bhagavan Siva like a lunatic became a restless globe trottrer after Sachis Yogic end for
several years and resettled at Himavan Mountain for severe Tapasya. In the process of
His meditation, He had memories of Sati and perspired and from His sweat was born
Bhauma and Bhu Devi nurtured the child and eventually Bhuma became a high devotee
and attained a position in the Solar System as Mangala Deva or Mars. Parvati requested
her parents to seek a blessing from Siva to allow Her in His Seva (Service) without
disturbing Him at all. Siva did not agree but Parvati Herself emboldened to argue with
Siva that She was Prakriti or Nature and Siva was the Maha Purusha ( Almighty), that
His meditation would have speedy results if Prakriti too served Almightys efforts as a
supplement and that He could therfore agree to allow Her service to the Almighty and so
on. Siva was impressed with her Spiritual knowledge and had agreed; every day Parvati
used to up-keep Sivas meditation- surroundings, fetch flowers and other requirements
useful for the meditation and Puja by Bhagavan.
It was at that juncture that a powerful Demon Tarakasura became a major menace to the
World, especially Devas and Indra. He was the son of Vajrang, a son of Diti-wife of
Kashyap, who had the deep-seated animosity against Indra in particular and Devas in
general; Diti was pregnant with a wish to beget a powerful male issue who would
conquer Indra and Devas and occupy heavens, since she had several of her descendants
destroyed. But Indra used his mystic powers to kill the foetus which was cut into forty
nine pieces and thus produced Marudganas. She became pregnant again and delivered
Vajrang whose son was Tarakasura, the most dreaded Demon of the date. Tarakasura
was fortified with the boon from Brahma that excepting Sivas son, none else should be
able to kill him in the entire Universe! Knowing of the invincibility of Takasura, there
was a great desire that Sivas son must soon arrive and Devi Parvatis wedding be
expedited. As advised by Brahma, a big delegation of Devas was sent to Manmadha and
Rati so that their good offices were utilised to kindle desires in Siva in favour of Devi
Parvati, who is already in the vicinity of Siva in meditation.Thus prompted by Devas,
Manmadha used his Kama bana(Arrows of Love) when Bhagavan felt a slight change
in His attitude in favour of Parvati but soon recovered from His thoughts quickly and
noticed that Manmadha was at work, became highly provoked and in a fit of immense
fury opened His Third Eye and as a result, Manmadha was burnt as ash and indeed was a
dreadful and instant action which stunned all Devas, Brahma, Vishnu, Devi Bhagavati
and indeed the entire World. The Nirvikara (Reaction-less) Maha Siva resumed His
Tapasya as though nothing had happened, but Rati was inconsolable, Parvati was
mystified and decided to take up rigorous meditation. There were group prayers by
Vishnu, Brahma, Indra, their consorts and the whole lot of Devas; Bhagavan Siva got
gradually cooled down a bit, as it was explained to Him that it all happened due to their
own reasons of self- protection and defencelessness and narrated the matter in full. He
gave the boon that in the next births, Manmadha would be born as Pradyumna to Lord
Krishna and Rukmini Devi and even a few days of the childs birth, a Demon named
Shambara would throw the child in the Sea and eventually kill the demon and marry Rati
Devi as Mayavati. Manmadha would join Sivaganas and be visible only to Rati Devi,
and she should await her rebirth in Dvapara Yuga. Parvati Devi performed severe

11

tapasya under the tutorship of Devarshi Narada and constantly carried out the Japa of
the Mantra Om Namo Sivaya Namaha meticulously. Bhagavan did not agree to the
proposal of marrying Parvati initially, but as convinced by Vishnu, Brahma and Devas
conceded but ordered Sapta Rishis to test Her seriouness. In course of time Bhagavan
Himself appeared in the disguise of a Brahmana and tried to dissuade Her to wed a
Bhutnath, a near Digambara, an uncouth and frightening entity with matted hair and
serpents and ash all over His body and so on. Devi Bhagavati reacted vehemently and
showed Him the door. But She felt that Her penance executed all along did not satisfy the
Lord and out of desperation sought to jump into a Fire pit, when He gave the Darshan and
said: Why do you not realise that we are the Eternal Prakriti and Maha Purusha
ourselves!
When the wedding of Siva and Parvati was announced, the entire Universe got
transformed with ecstasy. Sivaganas including Nandi and Bhairav went into raptures.
Devas were relieved that the menace of Tarakasura would end soon. Great Sages,
Brahma and Vishnu turned highly inward-looking spiritually as their souls hit pinnacles
of fulfillment. The Union of Prakrti (Maya) and Maha Purusha explained the
Quintessence of Vedas and Sciptures as the Super Energy of Unknown, Everlasting, Allpervasive, Endless, Unborn nature!Bhagavan Siva was in a light disposition and played
Leelas, especially with Parvatis parents, Maina and Himavanta. First, He disguised
sporting a dress of a flippant dancer as Nataraj at Mainas residence and she tried to
give Him a gold chain thinking that He was an ordinary dancer. When He announced that
He was Siva, both of the parents of Parvati were not only not impressed, but refused to
give away their daughter in wedding to Siva. Sapta Rishis had to appear and convince
about Siva. As the bride grooms party arrived the parents were under the illusion of each
arriving Deity at the function as the bridegroom. And when actually Bhagavan did arrive,
He sported a figure of a Bhutnath on Nandi the bull vahana with a frightening demeanor
surrounded by Sivaganas, Bhutas, and Pisachas. Lord Vishnu had to intervene to say that
what they saw was an illusion of Siva to test their basic faith. Devi Parvati was indeed
amused with Bhagavans pranks.The Wedding Procession included the Who Is Who of
the Universe: the Saptha Matas (The Seven Mothers viz. Bramhi, Mahesvari, Kaumari,
Vaishnavi, Varahi, Indri, and Chamunda; the full contingent of Brahma, Vishnu, Indra,
Planetary Heads and Devas, Sapta Rishis, Brahma Manasa Putras, Sages, Sivaganas,
Pisachas, various manifestations of Devi Bhagavati, Gandharvas, Apsaras, Kimpurushas
and personified Vedas and Sciptures and so on. The Whole World was in memorable
bliss and elation. Indeed on this Holy Occasion, Bhagavan recalled Manmadha too back
to active life to the greatest delight of Rati Devi too.
The birth of Kartikeya and the end of Tarakasura
As Siva and Parvati moved on from Himavanths Palace to Kailash and were enjoying
conjugal happiness, all the Devas, Brahma and Vishnu were all disturbed by the peakevil activities of Tarakasura and the very purpose the wedding of Siva and Bhavani
appeared to take a back seat. A Divine Delegation headed by Vishnu sought permission
to meet Siva to explain the grim situation and in a hurry to meet the Delegation spilt His
semen on ground and Agni Deva transformed as a pigeon pecked up the drops and could

12

not bear the inflammation. Maha Deva Himself advised the pigeon to inject the drops into
a woman of immense virtue. Agni identified Six Women of Great Virtue and injected
them into the pores of hairs on their bodies. They too could not bear the extreme
effervescence and as directed by Himalaya relocated it into the violent flow of Ganges
which carried to the bushes of reed (Sarkanda) and there appeared a Boy of mysterious
radiance. Even while this sequence of events was happening, Devi Parvati was extremely
furious that Her privacy was disturbed and worse still Bhagavans semen was being
wasted and in that fit of anger cursed the wives of Devas who accompanied their
husbands in the delegation to become barren!
The birth of Kartikeya on the Lunar Calendar of the Sixth Day of the bright fortnight of
Margasira Month (Krittika Nakshatra of Shashthi Tidhi of Suddha Paksha of Margasirsha
Masa) brought the greatest joy to Devi Parvati and Maha Deva, unbelievable relief and
sense of liberation to all Devas, and a feeling of frustration and apprehension of the
Demons and followers of Takasura. Sage Visvamitra appeared at the spot and named
Him as Guha, bestowed the Totality of Vedic Knowledge, endowed Him with the Title
of Brahmarshi and blessed Him to lead Indra and Devas. Agni Deva gifted Him a Divine
weapon Shakti. Six Goddesses arrived at the scene and all of them tried to feed breast
milk but the miracle Boy solved the problem of assuming Six Heads and mouths. He was
thus known as Shanmukha. As He grew a year or two, He became restless and moved
on to Krouncha Mountain and demonstrated His valour by crumbling it ; innumerable
Demons got shaken and killed. Indra tested His valour by fighting it out with the
formers Vajraudha; Indra hit on Kartikeyas left, right and central portions and out
came three powerul entities viz. Shakh, Visakha and Naegam. In the meantime,
Sivaganas located Kartikeya and brought Him to Bhagavan and Parvati, who knew no
bounds of elation that He was finally home. Kartikeya was crowned as the King of
Kailashpuri and various Deities gifted away their weapons and powers and was declared
as the Senapati - Commander in Chief. Now was the time that Tarakasura was destined
to be destroyed; the Deities including Brahma and Vishnu could not with stand the fury
of the Demon. Finally, Tarakasura was challenged by Kartikeya, the Demon ridiculed
Devas and said that they were seeking to keep a mere boy as a shield and fight behind
him. But the wizard boy attacked the huge Asura with warm-up weapons initially and
ultimately at an opportune time when the Demon was caught unawares applied the Shakti
weapon deftly and hit on the Demons chest even as the biggest menace on earth at the
time breathed his last instantaneously. Kartikeya continued His battle escapades further
on by hitting Banasura as the target from Kailasa Mountain to Kraucha Mountain as a
simple feat and recalling the weapon Shakti back therafter. He set up three Siva Lingas at
the Krouncha by His mystic vision viz. Kumareshwar, Pratigyeshwar and Kapileswar to
please His father Bhagavan Siva. Yet another time, when a Demon Pralamb tried to
create obstacles to Devas, especially Brihaspati and Seshanags son Kumud who took
refuge from Himself, Kartikeya repeated the miracle of destroying the Demon without
even facing him.

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Anecdotes of Kartikeya and Ganesha

There were different Avatars (incarnations) of Kartikeya and Ganesha in various
Kalpas. In Sveta Varaha Kalpa, the two anecdotes about Kartikeya and Ganesha- the
Illustrious Sons of Siva and Parvati- were narrated by Lord Brahma to His Son Devarshi
Narada. As both the Brothers came of marriageable age, the question arose as to who
should be married first and the parents decided that whosoever could circumambulate the
entire Universe first would get the choice. Kartikeya flew off by His carrier- a peacockwithout even waiting for a minute, Ganesha who applied His mind and recalled what
Vedas stated that a single Pradakshinaof ones parents would yield the fruit of Bhu
pradakshina. Even half way through the full circle of the World, Sage Narada
intercepted Kartikeya and conveyed that Ganeshas wedding with Siddhi and Riddhi was
in progress already (they were blessed with two sons Kshema and Labha eventually).
Kartikeya felt cheated by the parents and retired at Krouncha Mountain and the parents
brought Him back by cajoling the dear son who felt hurt! It is on this day of Kartika
Pournami, Kartikeyas darshan is considered as most auspicious.
The Story of Ganeshas birth is indeed popular. When Nandi was asked to bar entry into
the Interior Place of Parvati as She was taking bath, Nandi no doubt prevented but
Bhagavan still entered and She was not amused. She decided to create an idol of a boy
which was infused with life and empowered Him to challenge anybody with the
necessary powers. The boy followed the instruction and did not allow entry even to Siva.
The Pramadha ganas were asked to teach a lesson to the boy by Siva but they were
defeated in no time. Siva Himself decided to force His entry but to no avail. Finally, an
irritated Bhagavan snapped the boys head and Parvati became furious and Her angry
manifestations surprised Siva Himself. She insisted that the boy be brought to life forth
with. Siva suggested locating anybody sleeping in the northern direction and the
Sivaganas were able to trace only an elephant. The severed head of the boy was fixed
with that of the elephant and He was revived. The assembly of Deities who first fought
with the boy and witnessed the entire scene earlier decided that any function in the World
ought to be commenced with worship of Ganesha foremost as He is the Lord of
preventing impediments and of providing success. Ganeshas worship on Bhadrapada
Sukla Chathurdhi is a must all over Bharatadesa as one is dreaded of becoming a victim
of undeserving blames since Moon God received a curse from Ganesha that whoever
saw the Moon on the particular Chaturdhi night without worshipping Him would become
a sure target!
Series of Sivas victories over Demons
Pursuant to Kartikeyas victory over Tarakasura, the three sons of the slain DemonTripurasuras or the three-some brothers viz.Tarkasha, Vidyunmali and Kamalaksha
who performed severe meditation for a number of years to Lord Brahma and secured
boons of undestroyable forts made of gold, silver and iron in the Skies, Earth and the
Lower world. The Demon Brothers were highly virtuous and flawless in their ethical
behaviour in general but at the same time were never forgetful of the killing of their
father by Kartikeya. They had the constant grudge against the Devas and hence kept up

14

the tempo of tormenting them frequenly. Devas complained to Brahma who took them to
Siva but were referred to Vishnu instead. In a Yagna that Vishnu organised numerous
Spirits with powerful weapons emerged from the Homa Kunda and they were all
despatched to fight the Demon brothers but it became clear that they were indeed
invincible as long as they hold themselves to virtues and religion and hence ways and
means would have to be found when they ought to step into ways of argument and even
vice. Thus Vishnu created a person named Arihan from His body who could produce
discourses on action- oriented life based on reasoning as against the established Vedic
Scriptures based on beliefs, faith and Karmakanda ( approved rituals); in other words, it
was religion vs. skepticism. Thus the slow-poison type of atheism was gradually injected
into the minds of the Demon Brothers and from them into the social fabric.Arihan
congregated disciples- Rishi, Yati, Keerya and Upadhya- to spread out the non- belief
principles in no time as the Demon Brothers temselves became victims of the so-called
rationalism and thus the ground for the killings of the brothers was well prepared and the
Deities beseeched Bhagavan to take the much awaited action of destroying the so called
Invincible Castles till Dharma was practised and kill the Brothers and followers. Siva
prayed to Ganesha to destroy obstacles (Vighnas) as an intial step, Viswakarma
fabricated a Powerful Chariot, Devas gifted several armouries, and Lord Siva used His
Pasupatastra the Supreme Arrow, the unparalleled weapon.The Demon Brothers
knowing fully of their fate, begged Siva to pardon them and the Most Merciful Bhagavan
blessed the Brothers to join His army of Sivaganas for the highly religious deeds and
devotion that they performed in their lives in the past.
Bhagavan Sivas annihilating of Demon Jalandhar was the legend further described by
Lord Brahma to Devarshi Narada. A child was born at the terminating point of River
Ganges and the Ocean, known as Gangasagar. As the child was crying loud incessantly,
the attention of Deities and Sages was drawn to Lord Brahma, who appeared on the spot
and prophesied that he was destined to become a King of Demons known for his ferocity
and could be killed only by Bhagavan Siva. The Lord named the child as Jalandhar since
he had so much of energy that he hurt the neck of Brahma and the latter had tears in His
eyes! The Lord entrusted the childs upbringing to the care of the Sea. Jalandhar grew
and married Vrinda the daughter of Kalanemi the Demon King and eventually became
the King himself. In course of time, Jalandhar occupied Indras seat in a battle and the
latter and the Devas approached Vishnu who nodoubt subdued Jalandhar but Lakshmi
Devi requested Vishnu to not only spare the Demon as She considered the latter as Her
brother since both of them were associated with Samudra Deva (the Sea) but even allow
Jalandhar to stay in Kshirasagara along with Her! Devas were hurt but had to suffer.
Meanwhile Narada created a problem to Jalandhar that his riches and powers were not at
all comparable to Lord Siva who was not only the mightiest but His Consort Parvati was
the most attractive in the entire World. The Demon was tempted and asked Rahu to
mediate for his possession of Parvati. Bhagavan became furious and threw out Rahu as he
was only an emissary. Jalandhar was unable to overcome his obsession for Parvati and
approached Her with the proposal of marrying Her. She became motionless with such a
ghastly proposal and informed of this incident to Vishnu. The latter pacified Parvati by
saying that He would apply the same method of approaching Jalandhars wife Vrinda as a
Brahmana and she would be also stunned in the same manner as Parvati when Jalandhar

15

approached Her. Sometime later Vishnu impersonated like Jalandhar and pretended as
her husband and on learning of the truth she ended her life while cursing Vishnu that His
wife would also face a similar situation. [Indeed this did happen likewise when Ravana
abducted Sita and Rama was searching for Her all over!] Jalandhar provoked the Demon
Brothers Sumbh and Nisumbh to challenge Siva who reataliated almost killing them and
warned them that not long later Bhagavati Herself kept the task of destroying them.
Jalandhar himself entered the battle field with Bhagavan and He slit the Demons head
with a fiery chakra produced from His toe! The Deities hailed Bhagavan for this
memorable action and prayed to Him in great relief and gratitude. While Devas were
delighted at the termination of Jalandhar, Lord Vishnu was suffering a guilt complex
about the self immolation executed by Vrinda, the wife of Jalandhar. He applied the ashes
of her burnt body all over His body and started performing penance. The Devas were
concerned about His condition and approached Maha Siva, who in turn asked Parvati to
rally the support of Lakshmi and Sarasvati in this context. The three Devis gave the seeds
of three trees viz. Amla, Tulsi and Malati to the Deities and spray the seeds at the place
where Vrinda immolated.The seeds manifested as plants which were forwarded to
Vishnuloka as tokens of blessings to Vrindas soul at Vaikuntha.
Sankhachooda was a powerful Demon dreaded by Devas. In his earlier birth, he was
Sudama, the Chief Attendant of Lord Krishnas Rasa Mandali and a Jatismara ( a
person who knew about his earlier birth), cursed by Devi Radha to become a Demon in
the ensuing birth. Sudama he fell in love with Devi Tulasi (also a Jatismara) who was
also cursed by Devi Radha for an indiscretion; happily Sankhachooda and Tulasi were
united in the current birth again. Already fortified with Narayana Kavacha even from
his earlier life, Sankhachooda practised penance of a high order and secured boons of
invincibility from Lord Brahma. He defeated Devas in fierce battles and dislodged Indra
and Devas from thier thrones. Devas went into hiding and later on approached Lords
Brahma, Vishnu and finally to Maha Deva with their woes. Siva despatched a Messenger
Pushpadanta to warn the Demon who had the audacity inviting Siva Himself. Sivaganas
were sent in the lead but to no impact. Bhadrakali was asked to battle along with Her
army but again to no avail! All the Devas were involved in the fierce battle with
Kartikeya and Ganesha in the lead; Mahendra was pitted against Vrishaparva, Bhaskara
against Viprachitti, Agni Deva against the Demon Gokarna, Kubera against Kalakeya,
Yama to Samhara, Sanesvara against Raktadhara, Eleven Rudras against Eleven
Bhayankaras and so on. The Illustrious Sons of Maheswara were controlled by Maya.
Lord Brahma utilised Brahmastra the Powerful Arrow whose usage is executed only
under exceptional circumstances and that too paled away. Lord Vishnu spread out a cover
of Illusion (Maya) and approached Sankhachooda in the form of a Brahmana and asked
the Narayana Kavacha, the most potent spiritual armoury from his body, as charity and
the Demon gave it away under the influence of Maya. Vishnu also advised Lord Siva
against utilising the Pasupatastra for fear of collosal destruction of the Universe but
gifted to Eswara a Trisula (Trident) with which Siva finally devastated the dreadful
Demon Sankachooda. Even as the army of the Demon ran helter-skelter in fright and selfdefence, the blanket of Maya of Lord Vishnu was still in operation as He assumed the
Form of the Demon who entered the Interior Chamber of Devi Tulasi who was
immensely pleased that her husband returned with Victory from the battle field. Though

16

initially rejoiced, Tulsi came to learn of Vishnus unforgivable deceit and disguise, but
Her chastity was spoilt by that time already! Not only she lost her husband but even her
chastity and thus she sacrificed her life, while cursing Vishnu to turn as a Stone! Vishnu
blessed Tulsi to welcome her to Vishnu loka and accepted her as one of His Consorts as
also become immortal as Tulasi Tree worthy of daily worship along with Salagramas or
Lord Vishnus manifestation- the Stones- as cursed by Tulasi! The spiritual and even
medicinal uses of Devi Tulasis leaves are immense and popular; the contemporary belief
is that if a dying person is administered a leaf of Tulsi, preferably with Ganga water has
access to Vishnu loka!
Lord Brahma also narrated the account of another Demon Andhakasura to Narada.
When Devi Parvati was playful with Maha Deva by closing His eyes tightly, the latter
perspired on His forehead and a boy of muscular strength was created whom Parvati
named as Andhaka. She nurtured the boy with affection under Her personal care. As the
Demon Hiranyaksha meditated for several years to seek longevity and unconquerability,
Lord Siva gave the boons and also gifted Andhaka to assist the Demon as his son.
Together, both Hiranaksha and Andhaka conquered the Three Worlds- the Heaven, Earth
and the Nether world. Lord Vishnu had to take the form of a Boar as Varahavatara to
save Vedas by plunging the Scriptures into the deep Seas, destroyed Hiranyaksha and
crowned Andhaka as a the King of the Nether World. In course of time, Andhaka made
Tapasya to Brahma and secured a boon that none excepting his father Siva could destroy
him. Empowered with the boon, he tormented Devas and became arrogant even ignoring
Devi Parvati and Maha Deva Himself, let alone Vedas and Sages.
Earlier to this, Danava Guru, Sukracharya noticed that the strength of Danava Army was
fast dwindling as each time a powerful Danava made attempts to occupy the Indraloka by
virtue of severe Tapasyaor Sacrifice by pleasing Brahma or Siva, Indra and Vishnu
commenced maneuverings; in the process of the big Danavas getting killed, thousands of
supporting and less powerful Danavas perished, but the strength of Devas on the other
hand had been intact as they had the advantage of Amrit that made Devas live for ever!
Therefore Sukracharya made exterme Tapasya to Lord Siva for thousand years to Lord
Siva to give the boon of Mrita Sanjivani Mantra (Providing the dead to come alive) to
such lesser valued demons who were fodder to the Devas Astras. Highly gladdened by
the persistent penance, Lord Siva not only gave away the Mantra but also provided a
berth in the Planetary Region as an Entity-the Sukra Graha or the Planet of Venus.As
Andhakas arrogance was turned into unbridled ambition and occupied the Devalokas,
Maha Deva sent His Sivaganas to reprimand Andhaka. The Demons companion called
Vidhas swallowed several Deities engaged in the fight and simultaneously Sukracharya
brought back to life the dead Danavas. A fiery Siva Himself appeared and devoured
Sukracharya for the betrayal and misuse of His boon of Mrita Sanjivini Vidya. The
Danava Guru who kept on reciting Om Namah Sivaya Mantra as a gesture of his regret,
Siva released the Danava Guru from His semen. Then Siva applied His Trident to kill
Andhaka but for each drop of blood, there was another Andhaka born; Maha Deva
ordered Devi Chandika to suck each drop of blood and expanded her tongue for till the
Demons body was drenched out of blood. Later on Siva lifted the bloodless body of
Andhaka, but the Demon prayed to Siva to admit him among the Sivaganas after death.

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Lord Brahma narrated the tale of Gajasura too to Narada Muni. As Durga Devi
destroyed Mahishasura, his son Gajasura did incredible penance to the Creator Brahma
and received the advantage that none excepting a Jitendriya (Controller of Senses)
could kill him. He took advantage of the boon and created havoc in the Three Worlds,
especially by distressing Deities, Maharshis, and Brahmanas. He coerced that he should
be worshipped and none else. The cimax came when the Demon forced the devotees at
Kasi to worship him and Maha Deva appeared and terminated Gajasura. While being
killed the Demon realised his sins and as a death wish entreated Siva to wear his skin on
His body. As He obliged the asura, Maha Deva is praised as Gajambaradhari. The Lord
ordered that at the spot of the Demons end there must be a Siva Linga with His
manifestation as Krittiveseshvar.
When Hiranaksha was killed, Diti was deeply grieved and Nirhad Daitya, the maternal
uncle of Prahlada, decided that the root cause of all the tribulations for the Daityas were
Vedas and Mantras. As Brahmanas were the performers of Yagnas and the Vedic Rites,
the Demon took the form of a tiger in a forest nearby and during the course of a Yagna at
Kasi which is the Center of Vedic activities, he used to kill as many Brahmanas as
possible in the nights and after the success of this experiment, more Daityas followed
suit.But, when several Brahmanas assembled worshipping a Siva Linga on a Sivaratri, a
tiger appeared and Lord Himself gave a powerful blow and terminated the Daitya in the
form of another tiger.
Yet another incident described by Brahma to Narada related to the death of two Demons
named Vidal and Utpal. They too performed penance to Lord Brahma and after
obtaining boons harassed the virtuous and the learned. The Deities complained to Brahma
and He confirmed that the the terminl stage of theirs was closeby. The demons took the
form of Sivaganas when Siva and Parvati were engrossed in a ball game. Siva indicated
to Parvati about the Demons in the form of Sivaganas and the ball with which the Super
Gods were playing hit hard the Demons to instant death and the ball took the shape of a
Holy Sivalinga.
[Such Leelas or Playful acts by Bhagavan, as narrated by Brahma to His Manasa Putra
Narada, were several, each of which vindicating victory of Virtue over Evil, faith over
non-belief and truth over illusion. Interestingly, there had been a pattern in the
happenings as the demoniac tendency of the Evil-doers was camouflaged with superficial
penance and sacrifice, only with the end-objective of executing evil deeds with
deliberation and design. As soon as boons are granted, the Devils tend to become
arrogant, egoistic and berserk without fear or restraint. At the end, all such happenings
end up as triumphs of Inner Beauty versus inherent beastliness. Another facet of the
narrations is a common phenomenon of Danavas seeking boons for wrong objectives and
the boon-granters like Brahma or Siva were indeed not unaware of the consequent run-up
of blatant acts of injustice being perpetrated by the evil persons. But apparently the
narrations are designed to teach lessons and alert the generations of posterity that despite
initial results, the long run realities would assert themselves bringing out the basic fact of
Satyameva Jayatey or Truth Triumphs in the Long Run!]

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Five basic incarnations of Bhagavan Siva

While narrating the contents of Shata Rudra Samhita of Siva Purana of Maharshi Veda
Vyasa, Suta Muni addressed the congregation of Sages commencing the five major
incarnations of Bhagavan Siva: Sadyojata, Vamadeva, Tatpurusha, Aghoresha and Isana.
The Sadyojata incarnation of Bhagavan in white colour was to bless Lord Brahma to
initiate the process of Srishti(Creation), looking Westward and the Invocation of
relevance is: Sadyojatam prapadyaami Sadyojathaayavai namo namah/ bhavey
bhaveynaati bhavebhasvamaam Bhavodbhavayanamah/ From the body of Sadyojata,
four disciples were created viz. Sunad, Sunandan, Visvanandan, Upanandan. Greetings to
Sadyojata Siva are: Vandeham Salalam kalankarahitam Sthonormukham paschimam.
The Vamadeva incarnation of Siva has red complexion, looks Northward in deep
meditative posture and is along with four sons created from His physique viz. Viraj,
Vivah, Vishok and Visvabhavan for blessing Lord Brahma to preserve and heal the
objects of Creation.. Invocation to Him states: Vamadevaya namo Jyeshthaya namah
Jyeshthayanamo Rudraya namah Kalaaya namah kalavikaranaya namo balavikaranaya
namo balaaya namo balapramadhanaya namah Sarva bhuta damanaaya namo
manonmanaaya namah. Greetings to Vamadeva are: Vandey Purna Sasaanka mandala
nibham Vaktram Harasyottharam. Sivas incarnation of Aghoresha looks South and of
blue complexion representing destructive/ regenerative energy and Invocation to Siva
states: Aghorebhyo thagorebhyo ghora ghoratarebhyaha/ Sarvebhyassarva sarvebhyo
namasthe astu Rudra rupebhyah. The sons of Aghora Siva are Krishna, Krishna Sikha,
Krishna Mukha and Krishna Kantha dhari. Greetings to Aghora states: Vande Dakshina meeswarasya kutila bhrubhanga Roudram Mukham. Tatpurusha is the Eastward
incarnation of Maha Siva being of yellow complexion and of deluded or misled Purusha.
Invocation to Tatpurusha states: Tat Purushaya vidmahe Maha Devaaya dhimahi tanno
Rudrah Prachodayaath. Salutation to this aspect of Siva is: Vande Siddha Suraasurendra
namitam Purva Mukham Sulinaha. Finally, Easana facing South East is Sada Siva who is
Eternal, Omni Potent and Omni Present. The Prayer to Him states: Esanassarva
Vidyanam Eswarassarva Bhootanam Brahmadhi patir Brahmanodhi pathir Brahma
Sivemo astuh Sada Sivom!
While many Incarnations of Siva are cited, the most significant additions to the Pancha
Mukhas or Five Faces of Siva are described as Ashta Murtis (Eight Idols) viz. Sharva,
Bhava, Rudra, Ugra, Bhima, Pasupati, Isana, Maha Deva. Bhava, Rudra and Sharva
represent the Five Elements of Earth, Water, Fire, Ether, Sky as also Sun, Moon, and
Kshetragya or the Supreme Soul. Bhagavan Siva is Sharva and omniscient. He is Bhava
or the bestower and merciful.He is Rudra the corrector or punisher, if need be. He is
spread out the whole Universe and is present Bahyantara or inside-out of each being
thus manifested as Ugra rupa. He who fulfils the wants of every animate or inanimate
being and destroys all kinds of difficulties is called Bhima. To those who are unable to
pull out themselves from their worldly chains of desires, relationships, senses of earthly
belongings and so on, Bhagavan manifests as Pasutpati. That Siva who is noticeable in
the most radiant form of Sun on the Skies and stands evidence to every beings actions
and sufferings is called Isana. Siva who provides coolness and happiness to every being
as manifested in Moon is known as Maha Deva.

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The Ardhanariswar is another significant manifestation of Bhagavan. When Lord

Brahma was faced with a major limitation in the context of Creation of various species
including human beings and the process of creation was extremely slow, since Brahma
had to exert and create the living beings mainly in a Manasic way or from various parts
of His body, a celestial voice was heard that He should perform Tapasya to Bhagavan
Siva. Not too late, Siva manifested in half form as Purusha and half as Prakriti. He then
provided a solution to Brahma as to how the process of creation could be rapidly sped up.
Devi Prakriti bestowed the knowledge of the Secret of creation as also gave away the
boons to men and women to procreate. This solution had indeed greatly facilitated Lord
Brahma whose task was lightened as only the guidelines of the beings to be born were
still to be decided by way of fate lines and account-keeping of pluses and minuses and so
on, but creation process became mechanical as the body parts of men and women came
into existence eversince. Another interpretation of learned persons of course is that
Paramatma is only one and has no age, time, Tatvas, Gunas or sex but is Unique and
everlasing!
In the Current Seventh Manvantara comprising Four Yugas each repeating twelve times
cyclically, the Sveta Varaha Kalpa which is now ongoing has manifested various Avatars
of Siva; during the current First Phase of Kali Yuga, nine entries were registered and the
successive dwars (segments) witnessed manifestations of Lord Siva, as Sveta, Sutra,
Daman, Suhotra, Kanka, Lokakshi, Jaijisatya, Dadhivahan, and Rishabhadeva.
Interestingly, Veda Vyas existed in all the nine segments as Satya, Bhargava, Angira,
Savita, Mrityu, Indra, Vasishtha and Sarasvat. The most reputed disciples in the
corresponding segments were Lord Brahma Himself, Dundubhi, Vishoka, Sumukh,
Sanak, Sudhama, Sarswat, Kapil and Parashar.
Nandikeswar is a partial expansion of Lord Siva Himself. Sage Shailada meditated to
Bhagavan for several years and secured a boon for a son of unprecedented Spiritual
Knowledge and therafter in a Fire Sacrifice appeared a Child with four hands and three
eyes who became a prodigy of Vedic comprehension within a short span of seven years.
The Sage was extremely delighted and proud. But, two Brahmanas arrived at their abode
and prophesied that the child was fated to die soon. As the Sage heard the tragic news,
the son was not perturbed but performed high order of penance and Bhagavan Himself
appeared and blessed the boy with eternal life. He took out a garland worn by Him to let
Him imbibe His powers and sprinkled water from His locks as the water flowed as
Panchanad or Five Rivers. He also appointed the boy as the Chief of Sivaganas. Devi
Parvati brought him up as Her own son and gave Nandiswara full freedom in the
Household. Nandi wedded Suyasha, the daughter of Marut.
Bhairav was created from Bhagavan Sivas third eye as He decided to snip the fifth head
of Brahma who annoyed the Lord for the sin of temptation with his own daughter. But
the sin of removing a head of Brahma construed as Brahma hatya (killing a Brahmana
that too of the stature of Brahma) haunted Bhairava and he wished to atone the sin by
begging alms in the skull of the dropped Head. He reached Vaikuntha and Lakshmi Devi
gifted a Vidya or learning called Manorath or fulfilment of ones mental wishes. Lord

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Siva dropped oegrass (a plant in sea akin to elephant grass) in the skull-bowl and directed
Bhairava to Kasi as this sin of Brahmahatya could not enter the Temple but he went to
Patalaloka intead. As Bhairava dropped the skull, he got rid of the sin for-ever.The place
where the skull fell is regarded as that of Kapala Moksha or Salvation of the Skull.
Sharabheswar is another incarnation of Maha Deva, in the curious form of a giant bird
which is part-lion and part-human [depicted as a figure in the Temples of South India].
When Lord Vishnu assumed the incarnation of Narasimha (Man-Lion) and devastated the
Demon Hiranyakasipu and saved Prahlada- the die-hard devotee of Vishnu, Narasimha
continued His fury for a long time and various efforts including Prahlads prayers and
even Veerabhadras intervention in the form of a mighty fight proved futile. The Giant
Bird was able to control Narasimha and flew the latter away held by its beak. On way,
Lord Vishnu recovered His normalcy and praised Siva for averting a universal havoc.
The body of Narasimha was destroyed and its Lions Head was worn in a garland of
Sharabhevara or Lord Siva.
Lord Sivas ten incarnations corresponding to those of Shakti
Corresponding to Ten Maha Vidyas of Shakti, Lord Siva assumed Ten Incarnations. The
first Incarnation was that of Mahakal and the counterpart Maha Vidya was of Maha Kali.
The next was that of Tar and the corresponding Shaki was Tara. The third incarnation of
Siva was Bhuvaneswar and the complement was Bhuvanewari while the fourth was
Sodash or Sri Vidyesh and the matching Shakti was Sodashi or Sri. Parameswaras fifth
Avatar was Bhairav and the balancing Shakti was Bhiravi. Chhinnamastak Siva was the
counter part of Chhinnamasta in the Sixth Incarnation. Dhumavan and Dhumavati were
Siva and Shakti of the Seventh while the Eighth Avatars manifested as Bhagala Mukh
and Bhagalamba. Matang and Matangi are the corresponding names of Siva and Shakti in
the Ninth Incarnation and finally the Avatars of Siva and Mahavidyas were Kamal and
Kamala.
Lord Sivas 'Ekadasa Rudra manifestations
As Daithyas were constantly distressing Devas, the latter approached Sage Kashyap. The
Sage too felt quite upset with the evil actions prepetrated by the Demons and desired to
secure a lasting solution to punish the Demons. He executed a rigorous Tapasya to the
most merciful Shankara who appeared and rewarded with a windfall that soon the
tribulations by Daityas would vanish as He would bless Devi Surabhi with Eleven
Expressions as Eakadasa Rudras ( Eleven Rudras) to wipe out the Daithyas engaged in
the tortures by the Demons. The Ekadasa Rudras were: Kapali, Pingal, Bheem,
Virupaksha, Vilohit, Shastra, Ajapaada, Ahirbudhya, Shamshu, Chand and Bhava. A
whole generation of Demons was indeed wiped out by the Grace of Maha Deva.
Trinity blesses Sage Atri and Anasuya with triplets
Lord Brahmas Manasa Putra (Mind-born son), Sage Atri performed a very powerful
Sacrifice to Bhagavan Siva to bless a divinely son. The severity of the penance was such

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that the extreme heat from the Fire pit radiated all over the World and Devas approached
Lord Brahma who along with Lord Vishnu conferred with Bhagavan Siva. They agreed
with each other that they would all appear before Atri and blessed him to let Anasuya
Devi ( Atris wife- a highly pious and chaste woman) conceive three boys, with the
Amsas ( partial manifestations) of all the three; from Brahmas amsa would emerge
Chandra; Dattatreya as the manifestation of Maha Vishnu and Durvasa from Lord
Siva. Indeed Anasuya (literally meaning Unenvious) had the unique distinction in the
entire World of begetting three children with the amsas of Tri Murtis!
An interesting happening was narrated by Sage Suta to the congregation of Rishis about
Maharshi Durvasa: King Ambarisha was highly virtuous and pious who was in the habit
of observing fasts and worship to Bhagavan on every Ekadasi (eleventh) day of a month
and on the next day of Dvadasi (twelfth) day, he would break the fast only after a
Brahmana or more would commence their food. It was on a Dwadasi day that along with
several of his disciples, Durvasa made a sudden appearance, agreed to join for mid day
meals and took away all his Sishyas for taking bath in a river nearby. Just at the nick of
time when Dwadasi was nearing its end, Durvasa and disciples did not return; the King
had to cut-short the fast and took one sip of water and precisely at that split second
Durvasa and others arrived. Durvasa became furious that the King did not wait for him
but had a sip of water already; he pulled out a lock of hair which became a flame and
would have turned the King into ash but for the instantaneous appearance of Sudarshan
Chakra (since the King was a very high devotee of Lord Vishnu) which not only put off
the fire but chased the Sage. A celestial voice was heard not to hurt the Sage as he was of
part embodiment of Bhagavan Siva and that he was only testing Ambarisha.The King
beseeched Durvasas sincere pardon and so did Sudarshan Chakra too. There were many
other instances when Sage Durvasa used to test the real characteristsics of illustrious
personalities- apparently to enlighten the posterity - like Sri Rama who was once ordered
not to be disturbed by anyone but Lakshmana had to do so since Durvasa arrived and as
an atonement discarded even Lakshmana for his wrong action; when Durvasa was taking
bath in Ganga naked by intention or mistake, Draupadi tore a part of her sari to cover the
Sage, and he blessed her that at the time of Vastrapaharanam ( Draupadis disrobing) in
an open Court, the piece of cloth would come to her rescue as Dussasana tried to disrobe
her; and finally saved another great embarrassment to Pandavas and Draupadi by the
sudden arrival of Durvasa with many disciples while she was unable to cook so much of
food for all of them, but Lord Krishna arrived and suppressed the hunger of all of them as
a morsel of rice remained in the utensil and that turned to be plentiful to Durvasa and
disciples!
Many other incarnations of Lord Siva
Nandikeswara was quoted to have recounted innumerable incidents of Sivas forms. He
appeared as Yakshewara to humble Devas as they became arrogant as they secured
Amrit after churning Ocean and asked them to cut pieces of grass and they were so
mighty but they failed and realised that He was Maha Deva Himself; He incarnated as
Hanuman when Lord Siva was infatuated with Mohini, Saptarishis carried His semen to
Anjana Devi through Vayu Deva, as a child swallowed Sun God to release him only after

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Deities requested the child when Sun agreed to be Hanumans teacher, joined Lord Rama
as His devotee, assisted Rama to locate Sita as also destroyed Ravana along with his clan
and had became immortal eversince; He assumed the form of Mahesha along with Girija
since Bhairava, the door keeper of Kailasa, made Parvati unhappy causing Her to curse as
mortal named Vetal who performed penance of such intensity that pleased Siva and
Parvati; He embodied as Vrishabha ( Appearance of an Ox) to enter the lower lokas
(nether worlds) with the aim of punishing Vishnus wicked sons but when they were
destroyed Vishnu fought with Vrishabha not knowing the Ox-like form was of Sivas;
when Vishnu prayed to Siva the latter presented Sudarsan Chakra to Vishnu. Lord Siva
disguised as a Yatinath to test the depth of devotion by a Bhil couple named Ahuk and
Ahuka and sought resting place overnight but even while Ahuk said that their hut was
just enough for two persons, Ahuka agreed to sleep outside to let the guest sleep inside
the hut, while a wild animal killed Ahuk yet Ahuka quietly tried to jump in the husbands
funeral pyre when Lord Siva manifested and blessed that the couple to become Nala and
Damayanti in the next birth as the Lord would appear as a Hamsa ( Swan) to unite
them; Siva disguised as a beggar to another poor woman who was hesitating to look
after an orphan boy as she had her own child too, yet advised the woman to bring up both
the kids, since the orphan boy was the son of King Satyarath who was killed by enemies
while the Queen went to forest along with the just born child but was killed by a
crocodile in a river thus prevailing on the poor woman not to abandon the orphan and
eventually found a pot of gold to her surprise; Lord Siva appeared as Sureshwara in the
guise of Indra when child Upamanyu performed concentrated penance to Bhagavan to
become rich as he did not have enough money to buy milk when his poor mother said
that Siva could only provide money but as a result of his penance Indra appeared and not
Siva which disapponted Upamanu to resume the Tapasya with far higher devotion and
Siva Himself appeared; and Bhagavans Incarnation as Kirat (hunter) when a forest
bound boar ( actually a Demon Mookasura sent by Duryodhana) killed by Arjuna and
Kirata simultaneously was claimed by both ending up in a mutual fight and finally a
victorious Siva was impressed by Arjunas valour and gifted Pasupatastra, the most
potent arrow of the World!
Description of Dvadasa (Twelve) Jyotirlingas
Kedaro Himavatprushthe Daakinyaam Bhimasankarah /Vaaranaasyam cha
Viswestriumbako Gautami thatey/ Saurashtrey Sommanathasva Srisaile Mallikarjunah /
Ujjainyam Maha Kala Omkare cha Amaresvarah / Vaidyanathaaschitha bhumo Nagesho
Daarukaananey / Sethu bandhe cha Ramesho Ghrusneswara Siva lingo/
Avatara Dvadasakamethchhambhoh Paramatmana/
Nandiswara described the Most Celebrated Twelve Jyotirlingas of Maha Deva as follows:
Kedarnath in Himalayas, Bhima Sankar in Dakinya, Viswesvara in Varanasi, Triambaka
on the banks of River Gautami, Somnatha in Saurashtra, Mallikarjuna in Sri Sailam,
Maha Kala in Ujjain, Amareswara at Omkara, Vaidyanatha in Chitha Bhumi, Nagesa at
Daruka, Rameswara at Setu Bandhana, and Ghrishneswara. [ Kedarnath in Uttaranchal,
Bhima Shankar near Pune in Maharashtra, Visveswara in Varanasi, Somnath in Gujarat,
Srisailam in Andhra Pradesh, Maha Kala in Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh, Omkara also in

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Madhya Pradesh, Vaidhyanath at Deogarh (Bihar), Nagesha near Dwaraka in Gujarat,

Rameswara in Tamilnadu, and Ghrishneswar near Ellora Caves in Aurangabad in
Maharashtra]
Somnath:
Prajapati Daksha married away twenty seven of his daughters to Chandra Deva (Moon)
but Chandra had great infatuation for Rohini to the neglect of other wives. Daksha
warned Chandra about this but to avail. Finally Daksha cursed Chandra who appealed to
Lord Brahma, and in turn asked to perform Tapasya to Bhagavan Siva. Chandra observed
penance at Prabhasa on the banks of River Sarasvati. On His appearance Lord Siva sorted
out the problem with a compromise that the first bright fortnight of a month (Sukla
Paksha) Moon would wax and the Krishna PakshaMoon would wane. He also blessed
Moon to be near Him and Parvati always. Being a Sparsha(Touch) JyotirlingaSomachandra- stated to be the first in the series, it would remove away all physical
ailments particularly tuberculosis and leprosy and bathing in the Water body Chandra
kund washes off all the sins committed by human beings. Known as Prabhat Kshetra
[near Veraval in Kathiawad District of Saurashtra in Gujarat], Lord Krishna is believed to
have performed his Leelas (Miracle Acts). [An ever burning light in a cave of the Temple
is witnessed till date].
Srisailam:
Stated to be the Second in the Series of Jyotirlingas on the Sri Parvat ( in Andhra
Pradesh, some 230 Km. from Hyderabad) on the banks of River Krishna, Lord Sivas
manifestation as Mallikarjuna along His Spouse Devi Bhramaramba is famed
mythologically as the place of penance when Kartikeya was unhappy and felt cheated as
Ganesha was wedded earlier despite the Agreement that whoever arrived first after full
Bhu Pradakshina (circumambulation of the World) would win, but Ganesha took
advantage of a Provision of the Scriptures and performed a Pradakshina of his parents
and attained the advantage of the Pradakshina. Siva and Parvati visited the Krouncha
Mountain to pacify Kartikeya but to no avail and thus moved over to the Mountain from
Kailasa.As Vrishabha Deva Siva Parvatis Carrier-did Tapasya to the Maha Devas, they
appeared as Mallikarjuna and Bhramaramba at this Holy Spot. Lord Rama is said to have
installed a Sahasralinga and Pandavas set up Pancha Pandava Lingas in the Temple
surroundings. In a tiny hole inside the temple of Devi Bhramaramba, one could still hear
the buzz of bees as the Devi assumed the form of bees all over Her Body and killed
Mahishasura. Adi Shankara is reputed to have scripted his well known Work named
Sivananda Lahari at this Temple.
Ujjain:
The only Svayambhu (Self-born) Jyothirlinga of Lord Siva in the form of Mahakal
originating Mantra Shakti (Power of Mantras) from within is indeed a unique specimen
among all the Jyotir- Lingas on the banks of River Kshipra. This is the only Temple of
various Jyotirlingas maintained on Tantrik Principles. While Mahakaleswar faces south

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as a Dakshina murthi, the Idols of Ganesh, Parvati, Kartikeya and Nandi are installed on
West, North, East and South respectively. Shree Yantra is perched upside down at the
Ceiling of Garbha Griha where the Main Linga is situated. The Temple has five levels
including an underground and on the third level is installed the idol of Nagchandreswar
open for public view only on Nag Panchami days. Experience at the time of very early
morning Bhasmabhishekhasor the spread of ash along with the loud chanting of
Mantras of the Deity and with the thrilling and reverberating sounds of various
percussion and bronze gong instruments takes one to devotional ecstasy. [It is stated that
the Bhasmabhishekas are performed by using the ashes of the first dead bodies of the
previous day, sanctified by Mantras from the holy waters of River Kshipra. Ladies are not
allowed to enter the Sanctum at the time of the Bhasmabhishekas although they could
witness the proceedings on Close Circuit TVs.]The mythological background of the
Temple was that there was a pious Brahmana well versed in Vedas and Scriptures had
four learned sons named Devapriya, Priyamedha, Survita and Suvrata. A demon named
Dushana lived nearby on a hill Ratnamala who could not tolerate the very concept of
Vedas and its applications and particularly hated the Brahmana brothers. One day the
Demon decided to destroy the brothers who were unfazed and continued their worship of
Maha Siva. As the Demon and his cruel followers were about kill the brothers there was
such a Hunkaror roaring sound of Mahakal which itself took away the breath of the
entire band of Danavas headed by Dushan instantly. The Brahmana brothers prayed to the
Lord who appeared on the spot and implored His manifestation of Mahakala to stay put
for the greatest benefit of posterity and conducted daily worship from generation to
generation.[ Ujjain, the erstwhile Capital of Avanti, had considerable importance of
Indias ancient history ruled in the past by Mauryas and Guptas. Memories of King
Vikramaditya still linger in the City till date.His Nine Gems of Poets especially Kalidasa
who scripted famed Works like Megha Sandesam, Abhijnana Shakuntalam and so on, the
other Gems being Dhanvantari, Kshapanaka, Amarasimha, Sankhu, Vetala Bhatta,
Ghatakopara, Varahamihira and Vara Ruchi. Bhartruhari the step brother of King
Vikramaditya became an ascetic and the Caves of Bhartruhari are on the tourist map of
the City as many believe that a person entering the maze of the Caves seldom returns!
Kalbharava Temple too is an interesing feature; as much of liquor poured as Naivedya
(offerings) in the Deitys throat (in the form of a Dog), half of it is returned as Prasad!
Ujjain is one of the Seven Mukti Sthalas (Salvation Places) of India, besides Ayodhya,
Mathura, Haridwar, Benares, Kanchipuram and Dwaraka.]
Omkareswar:
Situated in the banks of River Narmada on the Mandhata (Shivapuri) Island formed in the
shape of OM in Sanskrit, Omkareswar is one of the Jyotirlingas besides another
Amareswar Linga. The Legend was that Sage Narada visited Vindhya Raja and the latter
bragged that Vindya was the highest and most powerful Mountain in the entire World.
Narada replied that perhaps Meru was the greatest in terms of height and might. Vindhya
Raja felt jealous and executed severe Tapasya and pleased Maha Siva and requested
that He should always be present in the Vindhyas and establish a Linga of Bhagavan on
the banks of Narmada near to Vindhya. Hence the Omkara Jyotirlinga there. Puffed by
Sivas presence there, Vindhya Raja grew taller and taller to compete with Sumeru. This

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obstructed Sun Gods routine circumambulation of the Universe and He had to return half
way turning half of the Universe dark. Bhagavati asked Sage Agastya from Kasi to visit
Vindhya Raja who out of veneration bent down to touch the feet of Agastya who asked
Vindhya to be in that position till he returned and he never came again from the South!
Kedareshwara:
Flanked by breath taking views of snow-clad peaks of Himalayas at a height of 3585 m
from Sea level on the banks of River Mandakini, Kedareswar is the highest point where
Maha Devas presence is indeed felt in the manifestation of a famed Kedareswara Jyotir
Linga as spread out as a fairly large expanse of black stone with an inclined elevation in
the middle portion. Being inaccessible excepting by a difficult 14km trek by foot, or
horse back or dolis( palanquins) carried by two or four humans from Gaurikund, the
Temple is open only during end April through November since residents, let alone
pilgrims, have little access to the Mountain Top Temple during heavy snowfall in the
intervening period. [A helicopter service is available now from Agastya Muni to Phata to
reach Kedarnath]. The incarnations of Lord Vishnu in the form of two Sages Nara and
Narayana meditated to Bhagavan Siva for several years and as the latter appeared and
said that the incarnations of Vishnu Himself executed the penance without any basic
reason excepting the welfare of humanity and thus agreed to manifest Himself as a Jyotir
Linga at that hallowed place. Nara and Narayana are believed to have assumed their
forms as hallowed mountains nearby. According to Puranas, Pandavas performed
penance at the Temple and even in the opening Hall of the Temple at the entrance of the
Sanctum, there are idols of Pandavas, Lord Krishna, Nandi and Veerabhadra. The belief
is that Pandavas were chasing a Bull- Lord Siva Himself- and Bhima continued the chase
to subdue the animal by holdindg its tail and the Pandavas attained Salvation finally from
the Temple surroundings. It is also believed that Adi Shankara attained His Salvation
from this Place and there is a Samadhi of His behind the Temple. A distinct feature at
the entrance gate of the Temple is the head of a man carved in a triagular stone as facia
and a similar triangular facia is displayed in another Temple where Siva-Parvati wedding
was fabled to have taken place. Udakmand is mentioned in Siva Purana as a union of
Seven Seas and its water is everfresh. In fact the Homa Kund of the Wedding is also
visioned alive. On way to Kedar a number of Pigrimage Centers dot the route including
Agastyamuni, Ukhimath, Phali-Pasalat Devi, Kalimath, and Triguni Narayan not far from
Sonprayag.
Bhima Shankar:
Located some 110 km from Pune in Maharashtra State in the Ghat region of Sahyadri
Hills near the head of Bhima River which merges with Krishna River too, the fifth
Jyotirlinga Bhima Shankar is the appearance Maha Siva who exterminated Demon
Bhima, son of Kumbhakarna (Ravans brother). Demon Bhima on knowing from his
mother Kartaki wanted to avenge the death of his father by Lord Rama, who was Maha
Vishnus incarnation and performed penance to Lord Brahma to receive boons to conquer
even mighty opponents. He defeated Indra and Devas and what provoked Lord Siva most
was the tormenting of a great Siva Bhakta King Kamarupeshwara insisting that the latter

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should pray to himself rather than Siva Linga. As the Demon was about to destroy the
Sivalinga by his sword, Lord Siva appeared and destroyed the Demon and His mighty
anger caused sweat which flowed as River Bhima. The Jyotirlinga thus manifested is a
powerful representation of Ardhanariswara in the Temple provides proof of instant
fulfillment of all desires thus attracting thousands of devotees, especially on all Mondays
and definitely on Sivaratri festivals. As in certain other cases like at Ujjain, the
Swayambhu Jyotirlinga is set at a level lower than the normal Ground; also there is a
speciality here that there is a constant flow of water from the Linga! The Bhima Shankar
Temple is also associated with the killing of Demon brothers Tripurasuras along with
Devi Parvati in Her manifestation as Kamalaja whose temple is also nearby the main
Temple. Devi Kamalaja was worshipped by Brahma and hence She was called so. Sakini
and Dakini were among those whose contribution was significant in the battle against
Tripurasuras and their worship too is performed at the Temple. Mokshakund Tirtha, the
Holy Waterbody adjacent the Bhimashankar Temple is associated with Sage Kausika.
[Maratha Rulers especially Nana Phadnavis who built the Temple Sikhara and Sivaji
who made donations to its maintenance were intensely associated with the progress of
this illustrious Temple].
While the above version of the location of Bhimashankar is convincing, Siva Purana
which is relevant in the context of the current source states in Rudra Samhita:
Dakininam Bhimashankara while outlining the broad references of the Dwadasa
Jyotirlingas; more clearly the Koti Rudra Samhita states: Bhimashankara sanjnaastu
Shashtha Shambho Maha Prabho/ Avataro Maha leeloBhimasuravinashanah/
Sudakshinabhida Bhaktam Kamarupeshwaram vrisham / yoraraakshasadbhutam
hatvasaram tha bhakta duhkhadam/Bhimashankara naamaa sa daakinyam samsthitaha
swayam/ Jyotirlinga Siva rupena prarthesena Sankarah/ The sixth incarnation of
Shambu and His Leela( miracle) was the killing of Bhimasura and saving of King
Sudakshina of Kamarup whose grateful prayers resulted in the manifestation of Siva at
Dakini. The belief is the Bhimashankar Temple at Bhimapur Hill near Guwahati in
Assam is the one where the King Sudakshina was saved and the Jyotirlinga was
consecrated. Sivaratris are celebrated with pomp and Show in this Temple.
Yet another version relates that the Temple of Bhimashankar Jyotirlinga at Kashipur near
Nainital which was noted as a Dakini Country in the past is the one where the Jyotirlinga
appeared. The legend in the Region was that Bhima of Pandava brothers married a Dakini
woman named Hidimba and that Lord Siva appeared in that Place as a Swayambhu
Jyotirlinga in that Temple area.In this Temple too, there are Idols of Bhairavanath and
Devi Bhagavati as also a Temple Tank, called Sivaganga. Siva Ratri Jagarans and
Worship are observed with religious fervour and devotion in this Temple too.
Varanasi:
Famed as the Place of Devas that was founded by Bhagavan Siva Himself, some five
thousand years ago, Kasi has a hoary legend with age-old reputation worldwide. Varun
and Ganga and also Ganga and Assi, flowing in differnt directions, confluence in
Varana-Assi or Varanasi. Euologised in several Scriptures like Rig Veda, Puranas and
Epics, Varanasi was the Capital of Kasi King three thousand years ago and was reputed

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even by then as the capital of Religion, Education and Arts. The City covers some five
kilometers of the Holy and Everflowing Ganges on its banks attracting lakhs of Pilgrims
every year as the Ultimate Destination of Salvation for Hindus of all faiths and several
other religions especially Buddhists and Jains. This is the Sacred Spot that Bhagavan
Visveswara manifested as Avimukta Jyotir Linga in the renowned Golden Visveswara
Temple. It is stated that Lord Brahma executed such severe Tapasya ( meditation) here so
much that Maha Vishnu moved His head across fast in disbelief and the latters ear ring
fell at a place on the bank of the River and was since then named Manikarnika. When
Brahma was once chanting Vedas in praise of Siva in the form of the Jyoti Linga with the
formers Panchamukhas or Five Heads, some pronounciation slips rolled by and
becoming furious of the chanting mistakes which changed the sense of the words, Lord
Siva opened the third eye and burnt one of Brahmas heads which fell and found a
permanent place in the Temple. Viswanath Temple is also considered as a Shakti Peetha
and it is believed that Devi Satis ear-rings fell at the spot where Devi Visalakshis shrine
stands. Durga Temple, nick-named as Monkey Temple owing to large presence of
monkeys, is considred as a shrine built originally by Durga Herself and during
Navarathras of Dussera festival comes fully alive and heavily crowded by devotees.
Sankata Vimochana Hanuman Temple is frequently visited, especially on Tuesdays and
Saturdays. The Shrine of Annapoorni is stated as the place where Devi Annapurna
Herself distributed Anna (Rice and so on) to devotees when there was a famine and
Lord Siva Himself asked for Anna in the disguise of a Beggar! There is a Neelakantha
Temple with Deities of Vishnu, Avikuntha Vinayaka, Virupakshi Gauri, Saniswara and
clusters of Five-some Lingas. A separate shrine dedicated to Kala Bhairava is present too
in the courtyard. On the five km long banks of Ganga are situated hundreds of Ghats or
areas specified for many purposes like Sacrifices or Yagnas and Homams, some for
bathing, or some even owned privately. For eg. Dasasvamedha Ghat where Brahma
performed Yagnas and even now Brahmanas perform Agni Sthomas, Homas to please
Devas and so on; Manikarnika Ghat where Brahama executing penance and Vishnus
earrings were lost at the disbelief of the formers strengh to do it so seriously and shook
His earrings fast and lost these while Devi Parvati pretended that Her earrings were lost
so that Siva would stay back to search the lost earrings forever and thus tie Him up to
Kasi and such other beliefs. Besides the Manikarnika Ghat, where dead bodies are
brought for the favour of cremation to attain mukti (salvation), there is the Harischandra
Ghat where the Illustrious King Harischandra was posted as a slave and cremated dead
bodies with the same belief of attaining salvation. It is common knowledge that the King
stood for truthfulness and endured the most severe tests of life of selling off his family
and Son, became a life-long slave and finally attained Salvation.There are many orther
Ghats like Man Mandir Ghat near Someswara Linga Temple, Lalitha Ghat near by
Pasupatinath Temple, Tulasi Ghat where Tulsidas scripted Ramayana and so on. Ranging
from Kings and Queens, Foreign Plunderers, Great Saints like Adi Shankara,
Ramakrishna Paramahamsa, Vivekananda, Dayananda, Tulasidas and GuruNanak;
Educationists, Artistes, Disbelievers, Non Hindu Followers, and even modern Pandasanybody be named and be found- are all attracted to this Memorable City for their
reasons of Salvation, Religion, wordly fulfilments, mischief or mere curiosity: but Maha
Deva Blesses them all whatever may be the motive!

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Tryambakeswara:
Located thirty kilometers away frim Nasik in Maharashtra, the renowned Jyotirlinga of
Lord Sivas materialization called Tryambakeswar attracts thousands of Pilgrims round
the year providing boons of material and spiritual nature.The Punyakshetra or the
Hallowed Land is the source point of the Holy River Godavari basically owing to the
Bhagiradh-like efforts of Sage Gautama and his highly pious wife Ahalya. By virtue of
the Sages penance and prayers, Lord Varuna was pleased to supply water and food
grains in abundance but this boon turned out as a basis of jealousy of co-Sages and their
spouses who created a cow to plunder the grains. Sage Gautama destroyed the cow, but
as a result of a sin in killing the cow, the Sage-couple was banished to a hermitage on the
mountain of Brahmagiri. Gautama Muni made relentless Tapasya to Bhagavan Siva
who endowed Gautama with the double desires of bringing River Ganga near his
hermitage and also stay on its banks along with Bhagavati in the form of a Jyotirlinga.
Lord Siva granted both the wishes that Ganga was brought near Gautamas hermitage as
River Godavari and His manifestation as Tryambakeswara Jyotirlinga in the vicinity of
the River Godavari / Gautami. In parallel to this, another legend related to the formation
of a Jyotirlinga at Brahmagiri was the interface of Lords Brahma and Vishnu vis--vis an
appearance of a Fire Column whose height and depth could not be ascertained by both of
them; Brahmas cover-up story was that he found out the height of the Column and cited
a Ketaki flower as a witness. Bhagavan Siva gave a curse to Brahma that there would not
be worship of the former and Brahma gave a return curse that Lord Siva would be pushed
underground. Hence the manifesation of Tryambakeswara under the Brahmagiri. The
Jyotirlinga is of a small size in a depression on the floor with water oozing out constantly
from the top. The force of waves of the River appears to be as per the intensity of the
prayers of Sage Gautama according to the conviction of devotees in the Temple! Major
Tirthas (Tanks) in the Temple are named Gangadwara representing the source of Ganga
(Godavari), Varaha Tirtha where Lord Vishnu had a bath in the River in Varaha Rupa
( appearance as Boar) and Kushvartha Tirtha considered as the most significant as Sage
Gauthama spread across Kusha or Darbha Grass while securing the waters of Ganga.
There are also other Tirthas like Gangasagara, Bilva Tirtha, Indra Tirtha, Vishwanath
Tirtha, Mukund Tirtha, Prayag Tirtha, Rama Kund, Lakshmana Kund and so on. Among
the Shrines are Kedarnath, Rameshwar, Gauthameshwar, Kasi Viswanatha, Jareswar,
Kanchaneswar, Tribhuneswar, Venkateshwar, and Hanuman. There are daily worships at
the Main Temple thrice and the nightly arthies are special. On Mondays there are
special abhishekas and arthies as also Parikramas. Kartika month worships are
important, especially Kartika Purnima. Gangavatarana is celebrated in the month of
Magha. Simhasta Parvani is held once in twelve years.
Vaidyanath ( At Deogarh / Parli?)
The legendary background of Vaidyanath Jyotirlinga is related to Ravanasura the Epic
Villain of Ramayana. The King of Lanka carried out a relentless meditation to Bhagavan
Siva at Kailash Mountain for mighty supremacy and indomitability in the Three Worlds.
But as Siva was still not responsive, he moved out from Kailasa to Vrikshakandhaka

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towards south of Kailasa. He dug up a pit and worshipped a Sivalinga even by sacrificing
his ten heads, one by one and at the end Lord Siva became visible and gave away boons
of supremacy as also to let a Sivalinga to carry to his Kingdom on the condition that he
should reach Lanka directly without even a single halt, lest the Linga if kept down would
never be pulled out! Devas became afraid that once Ravana turned unquestionable, there
would be chaos in the Three Lokas and Dharma would be wiped out. Thus Devas prayed
to Devi Parvati and Ganesha to somehow avert the risk of the Sivalinga to reach Lanka.
Parvati appeared on way to Ravana in disguise and in collaboration with Varuna, tempted
pure waters of major holy Rivers to quench Ravanas thirst. The Kings stomach got
bloated and he wished to stop over urgently for a relief and luckily for him, there was a
lad whose assistance was sought to hold the Linga for a few moments without placing it
on the Ground. By the time Ravana returned, the lad- Lord Ganesha-disappeared and the
Linga was stuck to the Ground and no force applied by Ravana was a match to
Bhagavans decision. That was the Jyotirlinga of Vaidyanath who was a Vaidya
(Physician) and he helped to piece together the slashed heads of Ravana at the time of his
sacrificing them one by one.
Baidyanathdham (Baba dham) at Deogarh (Jharkhand) is some seven km from the
Jasidhi Junction on Howrah-Delhi main line. It is 220 km away from Patna. The
Baidyanath Shrine attracts lakhs of pigrims from all over a year normally, but they were
in millions during the entire Shravan month (July-August). Several of them carry
Ganges water from Sultanganj to Deogarh- a distance of about hundred km-to perform
Abhishekams to the Jyotirlinga, and many saffron clad Sadhus carry the Ganges water
by walk barefooted covering this distance! Pilgrimage to Babadham is considered
incomplete without visiting Basukinath Siva Temple some distance away. A well
maintained Nandi Temple edging the Nandan Pahad (hill) faces a beautiful lake on one
side and the Siva Temple on the other. Sivaganga is a pond very near the Main Temple,
where Ravana desired to wash but since there was no water nearby, he used his fist and
hit the Earth and a pond appeared. Other places of interest at Deogarh include Naulakha
Mandir, Satsang Ashram of Radha Swami, Tapovan with many caves where Valmiki is
said to have stayed for penance, Rikhia Ashram of Yoga, Hamira Jori where Ravana
handed over the Holy Linga to Ganesh before his ablutions and Trikut Parvat with a
Maha Deva Temple. Inside the huge complex of Babadham itself are situated some 22
Temples viz. Neelkantha and Parvati before Babadham and on either side a cluster of
Shrines devoted to Sri Ram, Ananda Bhairavi, Ganga, Gauri Shankar, Tara, Maha Kali,
Annapurna, Lakshmi Narayana, Surya Narayan, Bhavani, Sandhya, and so on.
There is a controversy about the location of Vaidyanatha Jyotirlinga at Parli in
Maharashtra called Kantipur (Madhyarekha Vijayanti or Vijayanti), which is some 26 km
from Ambejoga in the Beed District. One legend of this Temple often heard in the
vicinity was that Amba Yogeshwari of Ambejoga wedded Maha Deva Vaidyanadha and
the marriage party arrived late after the Muhurtha (the precise time) for the wedding
and Devi was waiting for long; She cursed the members of the Party to turn into stone
statues. Another Story was that after the churning of Ocean for Amrit ( nectar), fourteen
gems emerged among which were Dhanvantari and Amrit which were hidden inside the
Shivalinga, but as Demons tried to take them forcibly, huge flames came out and they

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had to retreat. Till date, devotees have strong faith that Amrit and Dhanvantari or disease
killing medicinal flows emerge from the Abhisheka waters.Thus Lord Lingamurthi is
called as Amritamurthi and Dhanvantari. In fact, all the devotees-irrespective of caste or
creed-are allowed touching the Linga and performing Abhishekas by themselves. Daily
Rudra Parayana Mantras are reverbrated in the entire Complex. This Sacred Temple is
also believed to be the Place where Lord Vishnu as Mohini distributed Amrit to Devas,
and hence is called Vijayanti. The other legend associated with the Temple is that of
Ravanas carrying the Linga as described above.Incidentally, the surrounding mountains,
forests and rivers are stated to abound medicinal sources. Over the last hundred years or
so, considerable construction was made around the Swayambhu Linga by way of strong
walls, Enclosures, Mahadwara (the Main Gate) and several other Gates, a number of
windows (one of which allows morning Sunrays inside one Enclosure by means of which
Sun God is worshipped), minarets, lighting and various facilities to lakhs of Visitors. This
Temple is a hallowed place particularly to Vira Shaiva Lingayats and devotees of Lord
Harihara.There is a Harihara Teertha in the vicinity. Many festivals connected with Siva,
Krishna and Bhagavati are celebrated with fervour; Mondays, Fridays, Ekadasis, Chaitra
Padava, Dussehras, Tripura Pournami, the entire Kartika month, Sivaratris, Sravana
month and so on are observed with reverence. A Pond in the Area is associated with
Markandeyas extraordinary devotion to embrace the Linga firmly defying Yamarajas
order of death and Bhagavans subsequent appearance giving His blessing of immortality
to the devotee. A Vateswara Temple reminds the devotees of a Vata or Banyan Tree
around which was the Story of Satyavan and Savitri over Yamas sanction of long- life
to the couple.
Nageswara (Dwaraka / Naganath / Almora)
Nageswaraavataarasthu dasamahaparikeerthitah /Aaavirbhutah swabhaktartha
dushtaanam danda sada / Hatva Daruka namaanam Rakshsah Dharmaghatakum /
Swabhkata Vaishwanaam cha prarakshat Supriyabhidam /
Bhagavans tenth manifestation (of Jyotirlinga) is popular in save His devotees; a Demon
named Daruka who obstructed virtue was destroyed to save His devotee Vaishaya
Supriya. While this was the Statement of Siva Puranas Koti Rudra Samhita
establishing that Nageswara Jyotirlinga was no doubt evident but there are atleast three
claimants of Its Location viz. Nageswara Temple at Dwaraka, Gujarat; Naganath Temple
at Aoudhya, Maharashta; and Jagasewara Temple at Almora, Uttarakhand. Happily, all
are winners!The legend was that there a demon couple named Daruka and Daruki and the
latter secured a grant from Devi Parvathi that wherever the Demoness went, the entire
forest would accompany her. The Demons were spoiling Yagnas and all Spiritual tasks,
there were protests from the harassed Brahmanas to Sage Ourva and the Sage cursed the
demons and followers that they would all be destroyed on earth; the Demons had thus no
alternative excepting to move into the Sea. Darukis boon from Parvati became
ineffective since the forests were all submerged in the Sea. The Demons thus restricted
only in the Sea and resorted to pirating the Ships moving in the Seas and one of
extremely devoted Bhakta of Lord Siva named Supriya-a Vaiasya- was thrown into a
prison on the ship. Bhakta Supriya who was a staunch devotee of Lord Shiva made

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sincere prayers and Bhagavan appreared, killed all the Demons and released the prisoners
especially Supriya. Commemorating this joyous moment, the Lord blessed that a
Swayambhu Nageswara Jyorirlinga be manifested on the Sea Coast as the memorable
Nageswara Jyotirlinga.
Dwaraka (Gujarat):
Some 18 km from Dwaraka, the Temple is situated in a large scrub landscape with a huge
Siva idol beckoning outside the Holy Shrine with high Sikhara. The Sacred Linga of raw
yellow stone is quite small of size (40cm high and 30cm dia) set underground of 3-4
steps in a spacious Hall of pillars; the Linga which could be touched by all Hindus.The
Sivalinga is facing South and a Gomukham ( Face of a Cow) is facing East. Sant
Namdeva desired to sing a Bhajan while simultaneously Rudra Parayana (Recital of
Rudra Hymns) was being performed and thus the Namdeo party was asked to go to the
back of the Temple and when they did so, the Lingam turned towards where the Sant was
singing and as this miracle happened the Brahmans begged the Sant for forgiveness. It is
said that as the Temple closes, live snakes hover with their hoods open around the
Sivaliga as though they were gaurding the premises. Naganatha linga is believed to
possess supreme Spiritual Powers; a Naga (serpent) is indicative of the nerves of human
body.The Sushumna Nadi or Naganathaindicates the energy channel under the spine.
The power of Kundalini which normally lies inactive in Mula Dhara Chakra or the Root
Chakra at the bottom of the Vertebral Column is also known as Naganatha. The snakelike Kundalini Shakti is akin to the brilliance of Soul (Lord Siva) Himself.Thus the
Jyotirlinga is the symbol of Spiritual Radiance. Also the Temple of Dwarakadhish
dedicated to Lord Krishna is quite popular in Dwaraka; it is some five hundreds old,
remodelled and renovated from time to time. It is granite-built beautiful structure of
seven stories of 51 m. height and is a tall land mark in the Township. Krishna and His
entire clan shifted to Dwaraka from Mathura although the vestiges were submerged in the
Arabian Sea.
Naganath (Maharashtra):
Situated at Audha in Prabhasa Kshetra [Prabhasa Railway Station on Manmadi-Nanded
Line] Naganath Jyotirlinga was referred to as follows by Adi Shankaracharya:
Yame ( South) Sadanga(old name of Audh)/ Vibhushitangam vividhaischa bhoga bhogai/
Satbhakti muktipradameesa mekam /Sri Naganatham saranam prapadye /
The legend of Aunda Naganatha Temple is that during Aranya Vasa (Forest life of
twelve years) by Pandavas pursuant to their defeat in a Game of Dice with Kauravas
lived in a hermitage and their cows taking water from a river nearby were automatically
giving milk back into the same river and finding this miracle act, Bhima found that the
middle part of the River was hot compared to the rest of water. Bhima with his mace
broke the middle portion of the River seeking to find out as to how had this happened;
there was blood gushing out and when dug up to the great surprise Pandavas discovered a
Jyotirlinga full of radiance. The Story of Demons Daruka and Daruki as also of Supriya
the great Devotee of Bhagavan was also ascribed to Nageswara Temple at Dwaraka in
Gujarat was referred to Naganath Temple at Audh in Maharashtra also.

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The architectural beauty of the Audha Temple of Prabhasa is distinctive, as was built by
Pandavas originally with heavy stones and spacious corridors and halls. The Court Hall is
oval shaped supported by strong pillars and the Jyotirlinga of Naganatha Deva is in a
Garbhagriha which is in a small internal area. While there is no Idol of Nandi before the
Main Deity, there is a separate Shrine for him behind the Main Temple. On all the four
sides of the Main Temple are separate shrines dedicated to Twelve Jyotirlingas, besides
Vedavyasa linga, Bhadreswara, Nilakantheswara, Ganapati, Dattatreya, Murali Manohar,
and Dasavataras- totalling 108 Shiva Temples and 68 Shrines, interestingly including
Mothers in law and Daughters in law! Also interestingly, there is a picturisation of a
Scene depicting a sulking Devi Parvati and a pacifying Lord Siva! It is said that
Aurangazeb ordered to plunder the Temple and swarms of bees drove away the soldiers.
Jagdeswar (Almora): Till date, devotees pray to Bhagavan Siva as Bal Jagdeswar as
connected to a legend of the Area. In Daruka Vana, there were Balakhilyas a group of
Sages of dwarf size performing severe penance for years. Bhagavan Siva sought to test
the depth of the Dwarf Sages and appeared as a tall, hefty and handsome personality, a
Digambara or completely naked, covering His body with snakes. The house wives of
the Area were so attracted to the Stranger that they were not only inquisitive but got
hypnotised neglecting their house chores. The Sages got frustrated and approached Devas
to save the confusion. When Devas meditated Lord Siva in desperation, He manifested
as a Bal Jagdeswar, who has no Physique, Gunas (Characretistics), Tatvas, Sex, Age,
Time, Distance, yet, He has all of these too! Thus materialized as a Swayambhu (Selfborn) Linga eversince! The Main Temple in the Complex is dedicated to Tarun
Jagdeswar and the Dwarpalakas are Nandi and Skandi. The Sanctum is of two parts, the
larger area being of Jagdeswara Jyotirlinga and the smaller area being of Devi Parvati.
There is an Akhanda Jyoti or Everlasting Lamp.The biggest Shrine in the Main Temple
is dedicated to Mritunjaya or the Saviour of Death.The distinction of this Linga is that it
has an opening of an Eye. Recitation of Mrutunjaya Mantra would yield immediate
reliefs of troubles, health problems, mental disturbance and Spiritual solace. The Mantra
is from Sukla Yajur Veda:Aum Trayambakam Yajamahe / Sugandhim Pushti Vardhanam
/ Urvarukamiva Bandhanaan /Mrityor Mokshiye Maamritaat -We pray to Lord Siva
whose eyes are the Sun, Moon and Fire. May He protect us from disease, poverty, and
fear and bless us with prosperity, longevity and good health. Another important Shrine in
the Complex is of Pushti Bhagavati. Outside the Complex are Vinayak Kshetra, Jhanker
Saim Mahadev (who was meditatated and instructed His Ganas to destroy the Demons
who were disturbing His Tapasya), and Briddha Jagadeswar (in the Form of Old
Jagadeswar).
Rameswaram:
The Temple town of Bhagavan Sivas emergence of the penutimate Jyotirlinga of
Ramalingesa happens to be celebration point of Lord Ramas glorious victory over
Ravana paying Ramas dutiful homage to Bhagavan. Having crossed Setu Bandhan
across the Sea on the triumphant return journey from Lanka en route Ayodhya, Lord
Rama despatched Hanuman to visit Varanasi to pray Viswesvara and bring a replica of
the Linga from Kasi for consecrating it on the Sea coast but since Hanuman could not

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return by the appointed auspicious time, Sita Devi improvised a Sand Linga and installed
it formally amid Vedic Mantras. Hanuman was upset and wished that the Linga blessed at
Kasi Viswanadha be substituted instead and tried hard to pull it out but the so called
temporary Sand Linga was ever lasting, blessing millions of devotees eversince. The
Kasilinga or Hanumanlinga too was installed nearby which too is worshipped by
devotees. It would be appropriate therefore that worship to Rameswara or Rathnaswami
be performed after the homage to the Kasilinga or Hanumanlinga. Spread over some 15
acres of land, the Temple could boast of rich architectural heritage of high RajaGopurams on the East (126 feet high) and the West side, massive walls, a huge Nandi (18
feet tall and 22 feet long) and a 4000 feet long Corridor with 4000 carved granite pillars
on raised platforms on either side- perhaps the longest in the World.
[It is gathered that in the initial stages, the Rameswara Jyotirlinga was kept in a thatched
abode till the 12th Century but royal patronage of passing centuries of the Kings of
Travancore, Ramanadha -puram, Nagercoil and Pudukkotai helped improve the Temple
Complex.]
There are some thiry six Teerthas ( Water Springs) with considerable medicinal amd
mineral properties - twenty of them being in the Temple Complex itself- most of the
devotees bathing bucketfulls in all the twenty two Wells dotted all over the surroundings
and walking along into the Sanctum drenched and then only perform the worship to the
Jyotirlinga in queues! Festivals at the Rameswara Temple are celebrated in Ani Masa
(June 15- July 15) signifying Lord Ramas victory worship to Bhagavan Siva and two
Brahmotsavas or Annual Principal Celebrations are observed in Adi and Masi
months as per local customs. Six worships commence from 5 am each day and Special
worships are on Fridays.
[Among the experiences include a memorable journey approaching or leaving
Rameswaram across the Ocean preferably by train or by a road journey over a high
bridge and a commanding view of Area atop the Gandhamadan Hill where a Shrine and
Ramas revered foot- prints are witnessed as also a Place in the vicinity of the Temple a
heavy mineral-laden stone floating on water, apparently due to its high phosphatic
content; the stone was a sample with which Setu bridge was constructed by Vanara Sena
or Monkey Brigade! ]
Other Places of interest include Dhanushkoti partly submerged into Sea owing to recent
cyclonic devastation and partlly ascribed to have been destroyed by Rama (the RamaSetu) by His arrows; Tiruppulani where Rama inclined as a Darbhasayi (lying on a
Darbha mat) soliciting Varuna Deva to facilitate smooth cross-over of the Sea to reach
Lanka; Shrines of Nava Grahas whom Rama prayed to remove obsctacles during the
ensuing Rama-Ravana battle; Devipatnam where barren women are blessed with progeny
and Jagannadha Shrine where Ravanas brother-a pious person-called Vibhishana
surrendered to Rama and was made the King of Lanka later on.

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Ghrishneswara:
On a mountain called Devagiri, there were a pious Brahmana named Sudharma and his
wife Sudeha but she was barren and had no child. Sudeha proposed that her younger
sister, Ghushma or Kusuma who was a staunch devotee of Parameswara be wedded to
Sudharma. Sudharma agreed and in course of time, they had a male child due to Lord
Sivas blessings. Ghushma was in the habit of daily worship by creating Sivalingas of
clay and immerse them after Puja and Abhisheka in a pond nearby. Sudeha got jealous of
her younger sister as she was blessed with a son. One night Sudeha killed the child out of
jeaulosy and threw away the child in the same pond where the Sivalingas were immersed
by her. The latter no doubt wept over the tragedy but continued her daily worship of Siva
none-the-less. The dead body of the child floated in the pond where Ghushma used to
immerse the lingas and there was commotion in the family and indeed in the village.
Ghushma still continued her prayers to Lord Shankara who finally stood before her and
desired to kill Sudhrama, but she requested not to do so out of her extreme kindness. Lord
Siva brought back the child from death and also asked Ghushma for any boon and she
requested Him to stay in pond and the Lord agreed to do so and hence the formation of
Ghrishneswara as a Jyotirlinga. Alternative names of the Place are Ghushmeswar or
Kusumeswar. This Temple is situated in the Village of Verul or Yelur where River Yala
flows and is some 30 km from Aurangabad. [From Aurangabad, Ellora is 30 km, Ajanta
is 106 km and Shirdi is 130 km.] The Temple Complex is quite spacious (240 X 185 feet)
enclosed by strong outer walls and the Garbha griha (Sanctum) admeasuring 17 feet X 17
feet are the Jyotirlinga of Lord Ghrishnaswara and Idol of Goddess Ghrishneswari; a
Nandikeswara is facing the Deities in the Court Hall of the Sanctum. It is believed that
long ago, the Patel of the Village discovered a treasure in a snake pit and the amount was
spent on the basic construction of the original Temple and the Holkar Royal family
renovated with Dasavataras and various other carvings in red stone were addded besides
a lake named Sikharashingarapur. [Ellora and Ajanta caves which are World Heritage
Sites are firmed up on the Tourist map of India].
Upa Lingas
While describing The Upalingas at the beginning of Koti Rudra Samhita, Suta Muni
explained the Upalinga which emerged from Someswara linga is Antakesh where Earth
and Ocean converge. The Upalinga of Srisailams Mallikarjuna is Rudreshwar and that of
Ujjains Mahakal is Dugdheswar. Kardameswar is the Upalinga of Omkareswar while
Bhuteswar is that of Kedareswar.Upalingas of Bheemashankar, Nageshwar, Rameshwar
and Bhumeswar respectively. There are other significant Sivalingas like Kirtikaveshwar,
Tilmandeswar, Bhukteswar, Pureswar, Siddha Nateswar, Shringeswar, Gopeswar,
Rangeswar, Rameswar, Ganeswar, Sukreswar, Chandrasekhara, Kumtinatha and
Andhakeswar.A few other Upalingas are mentioned herebelow:
Atrishwar Linga:
Sage Atri and Sati Anasuya performed atonement of rigorous nature in a forest named
Kamda at Chitrakuta moutain when they decided to save people from the grip of a

35

prolonged drought for some fifty years.They did not take a morsel of food during the
period of penance. Once Atri felt almost fainted because of thirst and Anasuya went in
search of water; Devi Ganga appeared and offered water from a spring dug up by
Anasuya into a pit which was taken by Anasuya in a kamandalufor storing water and
rushed it to quench Atris thirst. It was this pit from where water sprang up and became
the origin of River Mandakini. But Devi Ganga demanded the full Punya (Virtue) of
Anasuya in return and the latter sacrificed gladly to save the suffering people. Lord Siva
was impressed as Atri conducted a Maha Yaga and appeared in the form of Atriswar
Linga recognising the sacrifices of the Atri-Anasuya Couple.
Mahabaleswara Linga:
The Holy Place Gokarna (Ear of the Cow) in Karnataka State is believed to have been
formed as Earths ear was squeezed soon after her Creation by Maha Deva Siva. Ganesa
tricked Ravanasura to place down on Earth the Atmalinga of Mahadeva which was
secured by the latter after severe penance to the Lord. Once fixed on the Earth, it became
impossible for Ravana to pull it out and in the process of pulling it forcefully by breaking
it, three parts fell down and got scattered mainly at Gokarna and also Murudeswar,
Dhareswar and Gunavanthe where too the Temples are venerated. Mahabal Lingas
presence of a devotee at Gokarna, especially on the eighth or fourteenth day of Arudra
Nakshatra falling on a Monday destroys all sins and opens Gates of Kailasa after ones
demise. It is believed that worship of Mahabal Siva on Magha Krishna Chaturdasi is
highly fruitful and devotees in large crowds are attracted to the Temple on this particular
day. Obeisance by Puja and Abhisheka by milk and Bilwa leaves at the Temple on that
day is said to be a sure step towards Salvation.
Batuknath Linga:
A Brahmana named Dadhichi was a relentless worshipper of Lord Siva everyday
unfailingly but had to entrust the worship to one of his sons Sudarshan for some time.
Sudarshan too was performing the Pujas dutifully. On a Sivarathri which is the most
sacred night for Bhagavan too, along with his entire family kept fast and performed the
Pujas. But he did the sinful union with his wife that night and even without observing
physical cleanliness continued the worship on that most Sacred night. Lord Siva was
furious and there were frequent hurdles in the Pujas all through the Sivaratri. Sudarshans
father realised this most unfortunate happening. Sudarshan performed the most rigourous
penance possible for years and Devi Parvathi asked the Lord to pardon, absolve the sin
and liberate Sudarshan. Pleased by his sincere self-punishment, the Lord manifested
Himself in Batu linga and directed the devotee to worship it. [It is no doubt unconfirmed
but came to light that Batuknath Temple and linga of 1.2 meters height was worshipped
at Tahab Village, district Pulwama some 32 km of Srinagar, Kashmir, nearby a 40 feet
square spring called Vatuksar Nag, along with a Jagnnath Bhirav Temple nearby-now
under Muslim domination]. Unfortunately, it was gathered that the high linga which was
worshipped in the years of yore, was pulled out and used by Muslim women of the
villages around to pound grains to split from the husk!

36

Haatkeswar Linga:
This Linga is a manifestation of Purusha-Prakriti combine. A group of Sages were
observing worship to a Sivalinga very religiously at a Siva Temple in Daruka forest and a
few of them including their wives visited the forest interior to locate firewood, darbha,
flowers, fruits and such othe Puja material when they encountered a hefty person who
was completely naked. When they questioned about his whereabouts, he did not reply.
The Sages cursed the person that his phallus would fall on the ground. There was an earth
quake and rumbling storm broken with loud thunders and lightning as this incident
happened and such oppressive heat was produced like an inferno. The Sages ran to Lord
Brahma out of fright and guilt and the latter confirmed that the Personality who gave the
curse was Bhagavan Himself and no power in the Three Worlds could save them as also
the very existence of the Universe was threatened. The only possible way out could be to
meditate Devi Parvati and for sure she might ease the situation .The Sages prayed to Devi
Parvati who manifested as a female part on the spot and the Haatkeswar Linga as well.
Eversince then worship of Phallus as a manifestation of Bhagavan Siva came into vogue.
At Naimisharanya (Uttar Pradesh) near Lucknow, there is a Rishiswar Linga, which is
worshipped by Rishis; those who were alleged murderers or who actaully committed
murder but regretted having committed would be free from their troubles.
At Mishra Tirtha, there is a Dadhikeswar Linga, which was worshipped by Sage
Dadhichi. At Devaprayaga on way to Kedareswar, Lalitheswar Linga is worshipped by
devotees in the transit on either way up or down.
In Nayapalpuri [Khatmandu, Nepal] the very famous Pasupathinath Linga attracts lakhs
of devotees which has the distinction of being called a Linga Sirsha and the Temple
doors are four-sided thus enabling four separate queues of devotees simultaneously
manned by four priests. Not far from Pasupathinath Temple is Muktinath Linga which
is worshipped for mental peace and happiness.
The formation of Harishwar Linga was a consequence of Lord Vishnus worship to
Bhagavan Siva by thousand lotus flowers each of these by chanting the Siva
Sahasranamas or Thousand Names of Siva.
During the Worship Siva was desirous of Vishnus concentration and stole one of the
lotus flowers and there was a shortage of one flower in the count. Unnerved by the lapse,
Lord Vishnu gave away one of His eyes in sacrifice and completed the worship.
Bhagavan Siva was thrilled and fully satisfied; He asked Vishnu for a boon and as
desired, Lord Siva gifted a very powerful Sudarsana Chakra which is put to great use
often as a last resort to annihilate powerful Demons. Besides the Chakra, Bhagavan Siva
was pleased to materialize Himself as Harishwar Linga for the benefit of generations to
come.

37

Siva Sahasranamas (Thousand Names of Siva)

OM Siva ( The auspicious) (2) Hara ( The Destroyer) (3) Mrida (Giver of Happiness) (4)
Rudra ( Trouble Shooter, Evil Demolisher) (5) Pushkar ( Provider of Good Health), (6)
Pushpalochana ( Lotus-Eyed) (7) Arthagamya ( Target / Fulfiller of Desires) (8) Sadachar
( Sustainer of Virtue), (9) Sharva ( Terminator of Humanity) (10) Shambhu ( Giver of
Goodness) (11)Maheswar ( The Supreme) (12) Chandrapida ( Head worn by Moon) (13)
Chandramouli ( Moon Ornamented) (13) Viswam ( Universe in Totality) (14) ViswamBhareswar (Full Occupier of Universe) (15) Vedanta Sarva Sandoha (Essence of Vedas
and Sciptures) (16) Kapali (Wearer of Skulls) (17) Nilalohita (Blue and Red Haired) (18)
Dhyanadhar (Rooted in Meditation) (19) Aparicchhinna (Indestructible) (20) Gauri
bharta (Husband of Gauri) (21) Ganeswara (Chief of Pramathaganas) (22) Ashtamurthi (Lord of Eight Representations of Universe like Sky, Air, Fire and so on) (23)
Vishwamurthi (Manifestation of the entire Universe) (24) Trivarga Swarga Sadhanah
(Facilitator of Dharma, Artha and Moksha or Virtue-Wealth-Salvation combine) (25)
Jnana Gamya ( Final Destination of Vedic Knowledge) (26) Dhritha Prajna ( Strong
Willed) (27) Deva Devaha ( The Supreme God of Gods) ( 28) Trilochana ( The Three
Eyed or of Three Gunas (qualities), Trilokas, Tri Vedas, Triaksharas of Bimba- Akara,
Vukara, Makara and Om) (29) Vamadeva ( Suppressor of Evil minds and handsome
personality)(30) Mahadeva ( Super God ) (31) Patu ( Remover of Sorrows of Devotees)
(32) Parivridh ( Lord of the Universe) (33) Vridha (Advanced) ( 33) Viswarup
(Universal Figure) (34) Virupaksha (Vicious-Eyed to the Evil) (35) Vaaneesh ( Master of
Veda Vani / Sarasvathi) (36) Suchi Sattama ( Uncontaminated by Three Gunas and hence
Spotless) (37) Sarvapramana Samvaadi ( Guarantor of Vedas and Holy Scriptures) (38)
Vrishanka ( Bearer of Bulls Sign denoting War against Evil) (39) Vrishvahan ( He
whose Carrier as Nandi Bull) (40) Esha ( Master of the Whole Universe) (41) Pinaki ( He
who carries Pinaki named bow/arrow) (42) Khatvanga (User of a self-limb as a weapon)
(43)Chitra vesha (Dressed as per needs of occasions) (44) Chirantana ( Oldest unaffected
by time and changes) (45) Tamohara ( Demolisher of Darkness / Ignorance) (46)
Mahayogi (Most versatile in Ashtanga Yoga or all kinds of yogas) (47) Gopta ( Protector
by means of various illuminations) (48)Brahma ( Omni Creater and Omni featured) (49)
Dhurjati (Wearer of Ganga by His matted Hairs) (50) Kalakala (He keeps a track of
Mrityu and Yamaor Death and Devastation) ( 51) Krittivasa ( Wearer of Tiger Skin)
(52) Shubhaga (Most attractive and prosperous)(53) Pranavatmaka (Surfeit with the Soul
of Omkara)(54) Unnadhra ( Controller of human beings) (55) Purusha ( Supreme Being
Present all over and all times) (56) Jushya ( The Most deserved by Three Means of
Speech, Thought and Action) (57) Durvasa ( Dressed in coarse yarn clothing or as a Sage
of same name) (58) Purashasana ( Destroyer of Demon Tripura) (59) Divyaudha
(Possessor of most potent weapons) ( 60) Skandaguru ( Father and Teacher of Kartikeya)
(61) Parameshthi ( The Ultimate) (62) Paratpara (The Supreme ), Unknown and
Timeless) (63) Anadi Madhya Nidhana ( He who has no origin, middle or end)(64)
Girisha ( Lord of Mountains) ( 65)Girijadhava ( Parvathis husband) (66) Kuberabandhu
(Relative of Yakshadhi pati- Kubera) (67) Srikantha (Possessor of Vedas in His Throat)
(68) Loka- varnottama (The Greatest among Brahmaloka and other lokas) (69) Mridu
(Soft natured to devotees) (70) Samadhivedya (Who has the knowledge of Samadhi in
Yoga) (71) Dhanurdhari (Carrier of Bow and arrows) (72) Nilakantha (Blue Throated

38

retaining Poisonous Flames) (73) Parasvadhi (Promoter of virtue among devotees to

inculcate of happiness to others) (74) Visalaksha (The Broad Eyed) (75) Mrigavyaghra
(Who is ready to assume tiger form to save deer) (76) Suresha (Supreme Lord of Devas)
(77)Suryatapana ( Provider of the Heat of Sun to the Wicked or Provider of Heat to the
Sun God Himself) (78) Dharmadhyaksha ( Chief Preserver of Virtue) (79) Kshama
Kshetra ( Origin of Tolerance) (80) Bhagavan ( Possessor/ Yielder of Six kinds of
Wealth; viz. Dhana or Money, Dhanya or Granary, Dhairya or Courage, Santana or
Progeny, Jaya or Victory and Vidya or Knowledge ) (81) Bhaganetrabhida ( Remover of
eyes of Bhaga at Daksha Prajapatis Yagna (82) Ugra ( Ferocious) (83) Pasupati (Chief of
Beings) (84)Tarksha (Siva in Kasyaps form) (85) Priya Bhakta (Beloved of Devotees)
(86) Parandapa (Generator of High heat) (87) Daata (Giver of Boons) (88) Dayakara
(Merciful) (89) Daksha (Highly Capable) (90) Kapardi (Provider of Gyan) (91)
Kamashasan (Controller of Love and Destroyer of Kamadeva) (92) Smashananilaya
(Resides of Burial Ground) (93) Sukshmah (infinitesimal) (94) Smashanastha (A resider
of Graveyard) (95) Maheswara (Foremost Commander of Universe) (96) Loka Kartha
(Creator of the Universe) (97) Mrigapathi (Protector of Animals) (98) Mahakartha
(Creator of Five Elements) (99) Poshak (Sustainer) (100) Visvaasakartha (Granter of
Confidence) (101) Mahoushadhi (Huge Source of Medicines for Physical Well-being or
Smasher of Worldly Bondages) (101) Somapaha (Giver of Soma or Nectar to Devas)
(102) Amritaha (Self-sprung Nectar for immortality) (102) Soumyaha (Serene looking to
devotees) (103) Mahateja (Unparalleled Radiance) (104) Mahadyutih (Great
Illumination) (105) Tejomaya (All Pervading Light) (106) Amritamaya( Replete with
Nectar) (107) Annamaya ( Food is God; Anna is Brahma) (108) Sudhapati ( Chief
Protector of Nectar) (109) Uttara ( Paramatma descends to uplift humanity) (110) Gopati
(Master of Earth, Heaven, Humanity, Goddess of Learning Sarasvathi, Illumination and
Water) (111) Gopta ( Chief Administrator of All Species) (112) Jnana Gamya ( Final
Goal of Vedic Knowledge) (113) Pracheen ( Siva is Unaffected by Time and hence
Ageless) (114) Niti ( Dispenser of Morals to those who need) (115) Suniti ( Clean
Hearted) (116) Soma ( Source of Medicines as He made available to Moon) (117) Soma
rathah ( Happy to enjoy and give Soma rasa) (118) Sukhi ( Happy by Himself and makes
others Happy too) (119) Ajatashatru ( He has no Challenger) (120) Alok ( Self
Illuminated and Illuminating) (121) Sambhavya (Esteemed by all-Devas or Danavas)
(122) Havyavahan (Reaches Havi or Oblations to Devas in the form of Fire or Agni)
(123) Lokakara (Creator of the Worlds) (124) Vedakara (Populariser of Vedas like Rig,
Yaju and Sama Vedas) (125) Sutrakara (Creator of Maharshis like Veda Vyasa who
scripted Principles or Sutras) ( 126) Sanatanah ( Ageless and Permanent) (127) Maharshi
Kapilacharya ( Siva in the form of Kapilacharya who was the Exponent of Sankhya
Shastra ( 128) Viswadipti ( The Luminosity of the Whole Universe) ( 129) Trilochanah
(The Three Eyed or the Spring of Three Gunas of Satva, Rajas and Tamas) (130)
Pinakidharanka (The Holder of Pinaki Bow) (131) Bhudeva (The Supreme in the form of
readily cognizable Earth (132) Swastidah (Provider of Righteousness and Contentment)
(133) Sudhih (Bestower of Supreme Enlightentment) (134) Dhatrudhama (Possessor of
Superior Energy) (135) Dhamakarah (The Cause of Sons Exraordinary Brightness and
Heat) (136) Sarvah (The All-Pervading) (137) Sarva Gocharah (The All-Perceiver) (138)
Brahma srikah (Generator of Brahma and Vedas) (139) Viswasrikah (The Builder of the
Worlds) (140) Sargah (Reflection of Self-Creation) (141) Kavih (Self-scripted or Self-

39

Composer (142) Priyah (The Loved One) (143) Shakha (In the appearance of Rishi
named Shakha) (144) Vishaka (In the Form of Kartikeya) (145) Gosakha (The
Materialization of the Various Branches of Vedas) (146) Siva (The Foundation of the
Entire Cosmos) (147) Bhishak (He in the Form of Dhavantari or Physician providing well
being to all) (148) Anuttama (Incomparably righteous) (149) Gangaplavodak (The eternal
flow of Great Ganges is poor in comparison to Him) (150) Jana tarakah (Uplifter of
humanity) (151) Bhavya (Fully Propitious) (152) Pushkala (Abundant (153) Sthapti
(Architect of all the Worlds) (154) Sthira (Stable and Steady) (155) Vijitatma (A
Triumphant Super Soul) (156) Vishyatma (A Marvelous Soul of the Universal
Happenings) (157) Vidheyatma (Excellent Soul of Submissive Worlds) (158) Bhuta
Vahana Sarathy (The Driving Force to Brahma the Controller of Humanity) (159)
Saganaah (He who has Pramatha Ganas always) (160) Ganakaya (Indestructible along
with Pramathaganas) (161) Sakirthi (Highly Reputed) (162) Chhinnasamsayah ( He
whose doubts are destroyed) (163) Kamadeva (The Lord of Desires like Dharmarthas)
(164) Kamapalah (Bestower of Fulfillments)(165) Bhasmoddhuulitha Vigrah (Of Ash
laden Physique) (166) Bhasmapriyo (An Enthusiastic of Ash) (167) Bhasma saayi (Fond
of lying in ash) (168) Kami (Endower of Desires)(169) Kantha (Highly Attractive)(170)
Kritagama (Executor of Agamas /Vedas)(171) Samavartha (Executor of Life Cycles)
(172) Anirvyuktatma (All encompassed Soul)(173) Dharma Punjah (Consummated
Virtue) (174) Sadasiva (Always Propitious) (175) Akalmashah ( Never Tarnished) (176)
Chaturbahu ( Four Armed) (177) Duravasah ( Who Cannnot be kept in mind for long
(178) Durasadhaha( Attainable with rigorous Tapasya or Commitment) (179) Durlabha
(Achieve only with highest devotion) (180) Durgama (Reach Him only with enormous
difficulty) (181) Durga (Realise with Enduring Trauma) (182) Sarva ayudha Visarada
(Versatile in the art of weaponry like Sastra or physically applied and Astraor Mantra
Enabled ones) (183) Adhyatmika Yoga Nilayah ( Expert in Yoga Practice to destroy
miseries of body and mind) (184) Suthanthu ( He who keeps with Him the wide World)
(185)Thanthu Vardhanah ( He who broadens the world)(186) Subhangah ( Possessor and
Provider of Propitious Body Parts) (187) Loka Saranga(Assimilator of the essence of
Lokas or the Pranava/Omkara )(188) Jagadish (Controller of the Jagator the Lokas
(189) Janardrana ( Demolisher of the sorrows of Humans) (190) Bhasma Suddhikara ( He
who cleans up with Ash) (191) Meru ( Who Stays at Meru Mountain) (192) Ojasvi (Full
of Ojas or Vigour / Essential Energy) (193) Suddha Vigraha ( Pure Physique) (194)
Asaadhyah ( Not easy to realise) (195) Sadhu Sadhyah (Possible of realisation only by
the Virtuous) (196) Bhritya Markata Rupa Dhrit ( He who assumes the Profile of
Hanuman-the Monkey God) (197) Hiranya Retha ( He who is like Agni or Fire-like heat
and light) (198) Paurana ( He who is worthy of Brahmas proposal in Puranas to extol)
(199) Ripu Jeeva Harah ( He who obliterates Enemies) (200) Balah (He who enjoys
Supreme Strength) (201) Maha Hrida ( He whose heart is full of eternal happiness) (202)
Mahagartah ( The Lord of Great Illusions) (203) Siddha Vrindara Vanditah ( Saluted by
Siddhas and Devas at His Threshold) (204) Vyaghra Charmambarah ( Dressed by Tiger
skin) (205) Vyali ( Ornamented by poisonous snakes on His Body) (206) Maha Bhutah
(Virat Purushaor Collosal Formation of imperishable nature) (207) Maha Nidhih
(Mammoth Source of Wealth of all kinds)(208) Amrithasah (Eternal Enjoyer of Nectar)
(209) Amrita Vapuh (Of Indestructible Physique) (210) Ajaroparah (Immortal) (211)
Panchajanyah (Siva as Agni in Five Forms as manifested in Yajnas) (212) Prabhanjanah

40

(Siva as Vayu surrounded by Illusions among mortals) (213) Panchavimsati Tatvasthah

(Siva as *Twenty five Tatvas viz. Pancha Bhutas, Pancha Tanmatras, Pancha
Karmendriyas, Pancha Jnanendrias and Pancha Anthakaranas) (214) Parijata (Siva as
Kalpavrikshaor Fulfiller of desires of devotees) (215) Paratparah (Supreme Soul) (216)
Sulabha (Easy to please with sincerity of devotion) (217) Suvratah (He who guides
devotees to perform simple and easy Vrathas) (218) Surah (Champion) (219) Bramha
Veda Nidhi (Siva as the Sourcer of Brahma Vedas) (220)Vaangmaika Nidhi ( Origin and
Endower of Speech), (221) Varnashrama Guru ( Master of Four Varnas of Brahmana,
Vyasya, Kshatriya and Sudras as also Four Ashramas viz. Brahmacharya, Garhasthya,
Vanaprastha and Sanyasa)(222) Varni (Siva as Brahmachari or Vidyarthi) (223) Shatrujit
( Conquerer of Enemies) (224) Shatru tapanah ( Tormentor of Enemies) (225) Ashramah
( Provider of respite to those engaged in the worldly affairs)(226) Kshapanah (Mitigate
the sins of devotees) (227) Kshama (Terminator at the End);
[* Ref. 213 above: Mahabhuthas (Earth, Water, Fire, Ether and Sky); Tanmatras (Smell,
Taste, Vision, Feel and Hear; Karmendrias (Mouth, Hand, Feet, Ears, Eyes,
Excretionary); Jnanendrias (Rasana, Ghrana, Chakshu, Twak and Srotra); Anthahkaranas
(Ahankara, Manas, Buddhi, Prakriti and Purusha).]
(228) Jnanavan( Full of Knowledge) (229) Achaleswar ( Chief of Stable beings like Earth
and Mountains) (230) Pramanika Bhutah( Creator of Godly Evidences like Sun, Moon,
Stars and Air) (231) Durjeyah ( He who knows any thing instantly) (232) Suparnah ( Like
a Tree with branches as Vedas) (233) Vayu Vahanah ( He who makes airflow to move)
(234) Dhanurdharah ( Possessor of Pinaki) (235) Dhanur Veda ( The Originator of the
Science of Bow and Arrows) (236) Guna Rasih ( Totality of Gunas or Qualities like,
Vidya, Kriya,Satya, Daya, Ahimsa, Shanti, Dama, Dhyeya, Dhyana, Dhriti, Medha, Niti,
Kanthi, Drishti, Lajja, Pushti Prathishtha and so on) (237) Guna Kara ( He who applies
various Gunas) (238) Satyah ( Embodiment of Truth) ( 239) Satya Parah ( Practioner of
Truth) (240) Dinah ( Ordinary, non-complainng and always satisfied) (241) Dharmanga
(Dharmas various Limbs like Feet as Vedas, Hands like Varaha Murthi, Brahma like
Face, Agni like Tongue, Hairs like Kusha Grass, Eyes like Day and Night, Ornaments
like Vedanth & Srithis, Soma like Blood, and so on.) (241) Dharma Sadhanah (Practice
of Dharma) (242) Anantha Drishthi (His Vision is Infinite) (243) Ananda (Blissful)
(244) Dando Damayita (Punisher of the Punishers eg. Siva could reprimand Indra or
Devas) (245) Damaha ( Controller of Devas, Beings, Tatvas - like Maha Bhutas, Indriyas,
Tanmatras- and so on. (246) Abhivadyo Mahamayah (Saluted by Devas, Danavas and
Mahamaya too) (247) Visvakarma (Greeted by Celestial Architect Visvakarma) (247)
Visarada (Revered by Devi Sarasvathi) (248) Veeta ragah (Destroyer of Desire or Hatred
(249) Vinitatma (Siva softens the personality of His devotees) (250) Tapasvi (Meditator
par Excellence) (251) Bhuta Bhavanah ( He provides mental development of His
Devotees) (252) Uttama Vesha Dhari Pracchannah ( Sivas best dress- nudity- is half
closed) (253) ( Jita Kamah Kama Devah ( Siva overwhelms desires and Kama Deva /
Manmadha) (254) Ajit Priyah ( Siva is affectionate to Lord Vishnu) (255) Kalyana
Prakrithi ( Gracious featured) (256) Kalpa ( Root cause of entire Creation) (257)
Sarvaloka Prajapathi ( Sovereign of All Lokas ) (258) Tapasvi ( He concentrates to fulfill
the wishes of His devotees) (259) Taraka ( His is the Ship to let the devotees cross the

41

rough seas of Samsara) (260) Sriman ( Surfeit with Benevolence ) (261) Pradhana
Prabhu ( Chief Protector) (261) Alyapah ( Destructionless) ( 262) Loka palah ( Principal
Administor of Lokas) ( 263) Antarhita atma (Hideout of His Real Self due to Illusion)
(264) Kalpadih ( The Very Beginning of Kalpas ) (265) Kamalekshan ( His Lotus Vision
seeks Goddess Lakshmi always) (266) Veda Shastrastha Tattvajnayana ( Best
Comprehender of Tatva Jnana of Vedas and Shastras ( 267) Animaya ( He is Knowledge
by Himself and excels in imparting it to others) (268) Chandra ( Siva as Moon sourcing
pleasantness to one and all ) (269) Surya ( Siva as the origin of Surya provides untold
falicities to all Creations of the Supreme Power) (270) Sani ( Siva as Saturn controlling
fortunes as per His directions) (271) Ketu (Siva as Dhuma Kethu as the latter fulfills His
Instructions to humanity (272) Varanga ( Having perfect shaped limbs) (273) Vidruma
chhavi ( Siva as Mangal or Mars with the red colour of corals) (274) Bhakti Vasya ( in
the control of Devotees) (275) ParaBrahma ( Siva as Lord Brahma the Creator) (276)
Mriga banapurna (Siva searches His devotees like an arrow of His mind searches
deers)(277) Anagha (Free from all kinds of sins) (278) Adri (In the form of a Mountain)
(279) Adrivasa (Resident of Kailasa Mountain) (280) Kantha (Brahma as His Charioteer)
(281) Paramatma (Super Soul) (282) Jagadguru (Universal Teacher for their own
Good)(283) Sarva Karmalaya (Target God for daily devotional activities of common
people)(284) Tushti (Highly self-contented) (285) Mangalya (Auspicious for His
devotees) (286) Mangalakritah (Of auspicious nature) (287) Maha Tapah (He who
performs the Greatest Meditation to Create the Mega Universe) (288) Deergha Tapah (He
executes long time meditation for Sustenance of Universe) (289) Sthavishtha (He is
Gross) (290)Sthavirah (He is Ancient) (291) Dhruvah (He is most Stable) (292) Ahaha
(He embodies Great Radiance) (293) Samvatsarah (He is regular like rainy seasons of
each year) (294) Pramanah (Sivas existence is self-evident) (295) Paramam (Supreme)
(296) Tapah (Truthful meditation) (297) Krita Tapah (Executed action of Tapasya) (298)
Samvatsara Karah (Siva the player of cyclical movement of years) (299) Mantra Atyayah
(He who transcends Himself through recitals of Veda Mantras) (300) Sarva Darshan ( He
who reveals the whole world as real) (301) Sarveswarah (Eswara to all) (302) Siddhah
(Present Constantly) (303) Maha Retha (Super Virile) (304) Mahabala (Super Strong)
(305) Yogi Yogya (Ideally deserving Yoga practitioner) (306) Tejo (Sourcer of High
Radiance) (307) Siddhi (Ultimate Achiever) (308) Sarvaadih (Origin of Everything)
(309) Agrahya (He never accepts the sinful) (310) Vasoh (He keeps All Existing beings
within Self) (311) Vasumanah (His heart is unaffected by preferences of liking or hatred)
(312) Satyah (Truth as in Satya jnanam anantham Brahma) (313) Sarva Papa Haroharah
(Obliterator of all kinds of sins) (314) Sukirthi (Full of elegant reputation) (315) Sobhana
(Enriched by various attractions) (316) Sragvih (Garlanded) (317) Vedangah (He
constitutes the branches of Vedas) (317) Vedavinmunih (The Sage who is an adept in
Vedas) (318) Bhrajishnu (The Radiant) (319) Bhojanam (Food or Consuming Maya)
(320) Bhokta (The One who enjoys the Food) (321) Lokanatha (The Lord of the
Universe) (322) Dhurandarah (Connoisseur) (323) Amritah (Un-decaying) (324)
Sasvatha (Everlasing) (325) Shantah (Tranquil) (326) Banahastah (Arrow handed) (327)
Pratapavan (Audacious) (328) Kamandalu dhara (Kamandalu or a Holy vessel carried by
Gods with Amrit or Elixir) (329) Dhanvi (Carrier of Dhanush or Bow-Arrow Set) (330)
Avanmanasa Gocharah (Impossible to comprehend by Physical or mental faculties) (331)
Atindriyah (Far beyond the reach of Physical or Mental features) (332) Maha Mayah

42

(The Great Illusion) (333) Sarvavasa (Resident of any or every abode) (334)
Chatushpathah (He who prompts to four paths to His Devotees) (335) Kala-yogi (Siva as
Kala Yogi cautions devotees about the the end of their lives) (336) Mahanadah (His Great
Sound) (337) Mahotsaha (His enormous Enthusiasm) (338) (Mahabala) (His mighty
strength and bravery) (339) Maha Buddhi ( The Store of Great of Intelligence) (340)
Maha Virya ( The Unique Producer of the Worlds) (341) Bhuta- chari ( He whose
company consists of Extra Territorial Beings like Goblins) (342) Purandarah ( The
Executioner of Tripurasura) ( 343) Nisachar ( The Active Trekker in dead of nights)
(344) Pretachari ( Moves along with Groups of Pretas or the Dead Bodies) (345) Maha
Shaktih ( He who has Immense Might) (346) Maha Duytih ( He who has unrivalled
luminosity) (347) Anirdesya Vapuh (He possesses an outstanding Physique) ( 348)
Sriman ( He who has a glow of Prosperity) (349) Sarvacharya Manogatih( He guides
Various Teachers in imparting Knowledge) (350) Bahu Shrutah (Origin of several Holy
Scriptures) (351) Maha Maya ( The Inventor of the Great Illusion) (352) Niyatatma
Dhruvah ( Most controlled and disciplined Soul) ( 353) Ajas Tejo Dyuti Dharah ( He
carries Life, Might, Light and such other fantasic features)(354) Nartakah ( The
Illustrious Nata Raja who dances and makes others dance) (355)Nritya Priyo Nithya
Nrityah ( He revels in dance and dances always) (356) Prakashatma (Epitome of
Brilliance) (357) Prakashakah ( He who distributes illumination) (358)Spasht akasharah
(Distinct Word like OM) (359) Buddhah ( Basis of Intellect and its instructor) (360)
Samanah ( Balanced) (361) Sara Samplavah ( Sadhana or Means with which to attain
Essence of Life) (362) Yugadi krithyugavartha ( Siva Himself rotates the Yugas ) (363)
Gambhiro ( Serious and Complex due to knowledge and experience) (364) Vrisha
Vahanah ( Nandi Bull His carrier) (365) Ishtah ( The Most sought after) (366) Visishtah
(The Most Distinguished) ( 366) Sreshtah ( The Best who is worshipped by one and all )
(367) Sulabha ( He who is easy of achievement) (368) Sharmah ( Avatar of Sharabha)
(369) Dhanuh ( The Bearer of Pinakini ) (370) Tirtha rupah ( He assumes the forms of
Vidyas or Disciplines) (371) Thirtha nama ( He has the various names of Holy places)
(372) Thirtha drishya ( Blesses or enables of viewing various Thirthas like Bhagirathi)
(373) Stutah ( Prayed by entire World from Brahama downward) (374)Arthavah
(Bestower of the Four Purusharthas viz. Dharma, Artha, Kama and Moksha)
(375)Apanidhi ( He in the form of Oceans) (376) Adhishtana ( He is the King pin or
Adhara of the Srishti /Creation) (377)Vijaya ( Provider of Success in life by means of
devotion, Jnana and Vairagya) (378) Durjato Jayakalavit ( He who knows the timings
of Daityas losing battles and the winnings of Devas) (379) Pratishthithah ( His magnitude
and might are well established) (380) Pramanajnah ( He has the full awareness of
Pramanas or Proofs, -both direct or subtle (381) Hiranya Kavachah ( His shield is golden;
Vedas describe Him as Namo Hiranya baahavey, Hiranya varnaya, Hiranya Rupaya and
so on) (382) Harih ( He is the demolisher of all kinds of sins) (383) Vimochanah ( He is
the reliever of the three kinds of Tapatrayas or tribulations viz. of Adi bhautika,
Adhyatmika and Adi Daivika nature) (384) Sura Ganah ( He assumes the traits and
strengths of all the Devas (385) Vidyeshah ( He is the root of all Vidyas and also the
bestower of the deserved ones) (386) Bindu Samsrayah ( Pranava or Omkara is His own
manifestation) (387) Bala Swarupah ( Rudra, a child born of Brahmas fore- head ) (388)
Balotmattah ( From His Shakti or Power were annihilated the Evil from time to time)
(389) Vatarupah ( Siva in the form of Vata Tree) (390) Amalonmayi( Of Clean and Pure

43

Form) (391) Vikartha ( Creator of variegated designs and forms) (392)Gahanah (The
Unknowable; none could comprehend the Lords ways of thought or action) (393) Guhah
(The Concealed; none could fathom the Maya created by the Lord)(394) Karanam (The
Action) (395) Kaaranam (The Cause) and (396) Kartha (The Doer) (397) Sarvabandha
Vimochanah (The Liberator of all hindrances) (398) Vyavasayah (Determined to be in
Sat-Chit- Ananda Position) (399) Vyavasthanah (Sets up the Varnashrama format)
(400) Sthanadah (Decides individual positions and duties (401) Jagdadijah (He who
exists at be very beginning of the Universe) (402) Guruda (The constant destroyer of
Enemies) (403) Lalithah (The most attractive and soft personality) (404) Abhedah ( He
cannot assume more than one Singular Identity)(405) Bhavatatmani Samsthitha ( He
exists as the Innermost Soul of the bodies made by Pancha Bhutas or Five Elements)
(406) Vireswarah ( The Lord of the Valiant) ( 407) Virabhadrah ( As one of the Principal
Ganas or Army of Lord Siva) ( 408) Virasana Vidhih Guru ( The Master of Valiants
Posture of Seating) (409) Vira Chudamani Sirobhusha ( Head-Ornament of Heroic
Warrior) (410) Vettha ( He is Omniscient) (411)Chidanandah (Heartily Happy) (412)
Nandiswarah ( Nandivahans Lord) (413)Ajnadhara Trisuli ( He whose orders are obeyed
by Trisula Weapon at once) (414)Tripivishthah ( In Yajnas He manifests Himself as Lord
Vishnu ( 415) Sivalayah ( He resides at all Places that are propitious ) (416) Valakhilyah
( He presents Himself as Rishi Valakhilya) (417) Mahachaapah ( In the form of the
Grand Bow gifted away to King Janaka by Siva) (418) Trigmanshu (Siva as Sun God)
(419) Badhirah ( Chooses to be hard of hearing sometimes) (420) Khagah ( He who
thinks of Skies) (421) Abhiramah (A resting place of Yogis) (422) Susharanah (Provider
of security and refuge (423) Subrahmanya (Ideal Explainer of Vedic knowledge and its
interpreters) (424) Sudha Swami (Amrits Chief Custodian) (425) Maghavan Kaushikah
(Siva as Indra) (426)Goman (As the Chief of Cows and cowherds) (427) Avasan
(Adhar or Support of Beings who are on death bed) (428) Sarva Sadhanak (He who
makes any thing posible)(429) Lalatakshah (He who keeps His Third Eye on His
Forehead) (430) Viswadehah (The entire Universe is His Body) (431) Sarah (Exists even
in the most trying times or at the time of annihilation of the Universe) (432) Samsara
Chakra bhrit (The Holder of the Cycle of Life) (433) Amogha Danda (Giver of
irretrievable punishement) (434) Madhyasthaha (Neutral) (435) Hiranah (Epitome of
Radiance) (436) Brahma Varchasvi (As the sheen of Brahma) (437) Paramarthah ( He
who grants Salvation) (438) Paromayi ( He is the origin of Outstanding Maya ) (439)
Shambharah ( Awards propitiousness) (440) Vyaghra Lochanah ( Has the frightening
look of a Tiger) (441)Ruchih (Brightness) (442) Virinchih ( Siva in the form of Brahma)
(443) Svandhyuh: Provider of boons to Devas ( 444) Vachaspathi ( Bestower of all kinds
of Vidyas in the Form of Brahma) (445) Ishanah ( Granter of all branches of Vidyas;
Sritis declare Him as Isanah Sarva Vidyanam) (445) Ahirpathih ( Siva in the form of
Surya or Sun) ( 446) Ravih ( Siva as the distributor of Nava Rasas on nine Emotions
drawn from the Sun- viz. Karuna or Kindness, Bhayanak or Fright, Krodha or anger,
Shringara or Attractiveness, Hasya or Comedy, Raudra or Fury, Vira or heroism,
Bhibhatsa or disgust and Shanta or Peace) (447) Virochanah ( Siva as Agni or Fire) (448)
Shastha ( He who orders or is the Maker of Rules) (449) Vaivaswa Munih ( Siva in the
form of Sage Vaivaswa) (450) Yamah ( Yama the of Son of Sun and God of Death) (451)
Yukthirunnathi Kirthih (Nyayamurthi, the Famed Ashtanga Yogi Siva) ( 452) Sanuragah
( Affectionate to Devotees) (453) Paranjayah ( Victorious of Enemies) (454) Kailasapathi

44

( The Lord of Kailasa Mountain) (455) Kranthah ( Most attractive) (456) Savitha ( The
Creator of all Beings) (457) Ravi Lochanah ( He who takes over the Eyes of Sun; it is
said : Agnir murtha Chakshusi Chandra Suryah) (458) Visvottham ( Of the most
Virtuous of the Universe) (459)Veetha Bhayaha (Devoid of any Fright)(460)Anivaritha
(Unstoppable; Or none could hold Him from ones own Karma phal or Fate ((461)
Nithya (Timeless irrespective of the Beginning or End of the Universe) (462) Niyat
Kalyanah (Decidedly auspicious) (463) Punya Sravana Kirthanah (The listener of Worthy
Hymns about Siva Doorasravah (Who could hear from any distance) (465) Visvasaha
(Who could the be the Worlds best tolerant) (466) Dhyeah (He who is the Worlds best
target of dedication) (467) Dussapna Nashanah (Destroyer of bad dreams) (468)
Uttaranah (Who could safely ship through the Ocean of Sansaror Worldly life) (469)
Dushkriti nasanah (The Terminator of Evil Deeds) (470) Vikshepyah (Could be viewed
only through special Vision) (471) Dussah (Cannot tolerate the Evil Forces even
regretfully) (472) Abhavah (He who is Birthless) (473) Anaadi (Who has no beginning)
(474) Bhurbhuva Lakshmih ( He who has the knowledge of Bhur Bhuva lokas and their
Lakshmis ) (474 A) Kiriti ( He as Arjun wearing the formal Crown) (475) Tridasadhipa
(He as the Chieftain of Devas) (476) Viswagopta ( Protector of the World) (477)
Vishvakartha ( The Creator of the World)(478) Suvirah (The Gallant) (479)
Ruchirangadah (Gorgeously limbed) (480) Jananah (He who creates all the Beings) (481)
Jana janmadih ( The essential cause of Creation (482) Pritiman ( The Affectionate ) (483)
Nitiman ( The Ethical) (484) Dhruvah (The Top Most) (485) Vasishthah ( The Sole
Surviver at the time of Pralay or The Great Devasation) (486) Kashyapah ( Siva as in
the Form of Sage Kashyap) (487) Bhanuh ( The Dazzling) (488) Bhimah ( Looks
frightening to the Opponent) (489) Bhima Parakramah ( As a Demolisher of Asuras
who were adepts for the Illusions created ) (500) Pranavah (Om kara Swarup) (501)
Satdyatacharah (Observer of Truthfulness and Virtuosity) (502) Mahakoshah ( He who
has control over the Five Koshas or sheaths / layers viz. Annamaya, Pranamaya,
Manonmaya, Vijnanamaya and Ananda maya) ( 503) Mahadhanah ( He has the greatest
prosperity) (504) Janmadhipah(The Leader of Births) (505) Mahadevah ( He who
surpasses all Emotions or Feelings and the manifestation of Atma Gyan or the
Knowledge of the Eternal Soul) ( 506) Sakalagama paragah ( The outstanding Expert of
all Vedas ), (507) Tatvam ( Tat or That-Am - you, Asi are is the literal meanings; or
Aham-I , Brahma- The Super Soul, Asmi-am; or Deep seated in Brahmas position )
(508) Tatvam Brahma ( Siva is as Brahma) (509) Tatvavit ( He who realises the Essence
of Tatva) (510) Ekatma ( The Supreme Soul is unique) (511) Vibhuh ( All pervading)
(512) Visva bhushan ( Ornament of the World) (513) Rishih (The Knower of the
Unknown; Vishvadhipo Rudro Maharshih is Veda) (514) Ishvarya Janma Mrityu
Jarathigah ( Siva owing to His opulence is far beyond birth, death and old age) (515)
Pancha Yagna samutpatthih ( Generator of Five kinds of Yagnas on daily basis viz. Deva
Yagna or worship to family deity; Brahma Yagna or Practice of Vedas and other
Sciptures; Pitri Yagnas to enhance family values; Bhuta Yagna or the spirit of caring and
sharing with others including animals and birds; and Nara Yagna providing hospitality to
colleagues, neighbours, friends or any body else ) ( 516) Visvasah ( Siva the superlative
of the Universe) (517) Vimalodaya ( The Maker of all movable and immovable objects)
(518) Anadyantha ( He has no beginning nor end) (519) Vatsalah (Affectionate to one
and all) (520) Bhaktaloka dhrit ( The bearer of the enirety of Devotees) (521) Gayatri

45

Vallabha ( The better half of Gayatri ) (522) Pranshuh(Double- brightened by Sunrays)

(523) Prabhakarah ( Siva as the most prominent form of early morning Sun ) (524) Sishu
( Likened to an infant) (525) Giriratha (Who likes to stay on Kailasha Mount) (526)
Samrat ( Highest Emperor) (527) Sushenah ( A huge army of Ganas) (528) Surashatru
(Devas Enemy) (528) Amogha (Sinless) (529) Arishtanemi (Provides boons to the
Virtuous) (530) Kumudah (Who lightens the burden of Earth by removing the
undesirable) (531) Vigatajvarah (He who is devoid of various kinds of physical ailments)
(532) Svayamjyotirstanurjyothih (Self illuminated subtle luminosity; Nivarasuka
vartanvi Peetabhavatyanupama tasyaassikhaya madhye cha Paramatma vyavasthithah
says Mantra Pushpam) (533) Atmajyothih (The Ever radiant Soul) (534) Achalanchalah
(Steady and stable) ( 534) Pingalah ( He wears the Tiger skin and hence of Reddish
Yellow colour of Sun rays ) (535) Kapilasmashruh ( He has the moustache and beard of
Pingal colour) (536) Phala netrah ( Third Eye on His forehead) ( 537) Thrayi thanuh (His
body is full of Vedas), (538) Jnana Skandhah Maha Nidhih ( Giver of a Storage of Jnana
to His devotees to enable them to achieve Salvation) (539) Viswa pathih ( The Lord of
the Universe) (540) Upaplavah ( The Tormentor of the Evil) (541)Bhago Vivasvan
adityah (Siva in the three forms of Bhagah, Visasvah and Adityah) (542)Yogaparah ( As
a Great Guide to Yogis) (543) Yogadharah ( The Fountain head of Yogas) (544)
Divaspathi ( The Chief of Heavens) (545) Kalyana Guna namah ( He has the names of
auspiciousness) ( 546) Papah ( demolisher of the sins of devotees) ( 547) Punya
Darshanah ( The Vision of Virtues personification) (548) Udara kirthih ( Of esteemed
personality) (549) Udyogi ( Highly industrious in the context of Creating the Universe)
(550) Sadyogi ( always busy in providing the means of fulfillment) (551) Sada sanmayah
( Always engaged in looking after the welfare of everybody) (552) Nakshatra- mali ( In
the form of Sky adorable with strings of Stars) ( 553) Nakeshah ( Head of the Skies)
(554) Lokeshah ( Master of the Worlds) (555) Swadhishtana Shadasrayah ( Siva who is at
the Seat of Vital Force) (556) Pavithrah (The Personification of Purity (557)
Papaanashascha ( The Annihilator of Sins) (558) Manipurah ( Fulfiller of desires
including gains of riches including jewellery) (559) Nabhogatih ( Freely moves around
the Skies)(560) Hrithpundarikamaseenah (Comfortably Seated on the lotus like hearts of
Yogis) (561) Shakrah (In the Form of Lord Indra) (562) Shanthah (Blissfully Peaceful)
(563) Vrishakapih (The root cause of sustaining Virtue) (564) Ushnah (Scorching due to
swallowing poison the most sizzling Halahalinto His Throat (565) Grahapati (The
Administer of Nava Grahas (The Nine Planets) (566) Krishnah (His blue throat is visible
to Krishna) (567) Samarth (Capable of doing anything) (568) Anartha Nashanah (wipe
out any complexity) (569) Adharma Shatru (The Opponent of Vice) (570) Ajneya
(Unknowable and Unreachable) (571) Puruhutah Purushthithah (Commended and
devoted by multitude of devotees) (572) Brahma Garbhah (Retainer of Vedas in His
Belly) (573) Brihad Garbhah (He holds the entire Brahmanda in His abdomen)
(574)Dharma Dhenuh (He is likened to the Sacred Cow Dharma Devatha) (575) Dhana gamah (Who ushers in Opulence) (576) Jagadishtuh (Well Wisher of the whole World)
(577) Sugatah (Immersed in noble thoughts and actions) (578) Kumarah ( Siva in the
shape of Lord Senapathi) (579) Kushkagam (Provider of Happiness and Satisfaction)
( 580) Hiranya Varnah ( Of Golden Colour) (581) Nana bhuta ratha ( He takes fancy to
Bhutas and Piscachas) (582) Dhwanih ( Assumes the form of Dwani or Sound ( 583)
Araagah ( without any Sound bytes or desires) (584) Nayanadhyakshah ( The Presider of

46

Eyes and Eyesight) (585) Viswamithah ( In the Profile of Viswamitra the Great Sage)
(586) Atmabhuh ( Self illumitaed) (587) Aniruddhah ( Uncontrollable) (588) Atrih (Siva
in the form of Sage Atri ) (589)Jnana murthi ( Vedic knowledge personified) (590) Maha
Yashah ( His fame is Boundless) (591)Loka Veeragrani ( The Head of the Valiant) (592)
Chanda ( Very angry with the Evil Minded) (593) Sathya Parakrama ( Truthfully Valiant)
( 594) Vyala Kalpa (Siva in the company of poisonous Snakes) (594) Maha Kalpa ( He is
Extraordinarily Capable) (595) Kalpa Vriksha (Siva as the Tree of Kalpavriksha granting
desires) (596) Kaladhara (He keeps Moon as His head ornament) (597)Alankrishnah
(Ornamented and illuminated) (598) Achalah (Firm and Stable) (599) Rochishnu
(Brightness incarnate) (600) Vikramonnathah (Bravery of the Highest order) (601) Ayuh
(Regulator of Age) (602) Shabdapathi (The Ruler of Vedas) (603) Vagmi plavanah
(Instant grantor of desires) (604) Sikhi saarathih ( Facilitator of the tasks of Agni or Fire)
(605) Asaprashtah (Confused by various illusions) (606) Athidhih (Guest) (607) Shatru
pramathi (Expert in devastating adversaries) (608) Padapasanah (Settled near a tree
comfortably) (609) Brihadasvaha (He is in custody of huge Horses) (610) Nabhi yonih
(He as the Sky is the cause of causes) (611) Suprateek (He with attractive limbs and
features) (612) Tamishrah (He saves devotees from dark ignorance) (613)
Nidagasthapanah ( He is the saver of Sun and heat) (614) Megha Svakshah ( The Viewer
of beautiful rainbows and the clouds) (615) Para Puranjayah ( The Victor of Enemy
holds) (616) Sukhaanilah ( The Provider of Cool air comfort) (617) Sunishpannah ( The
Creator of this charming World) (618) Surabhit ( The endower of great happiness) (619)
Sishiratmakah ( In the Sishira Rithu or the cool Season between Winter and Summer)
(620) Vasantho Madhavah ( Spring Season) (621) Greeshmah ( The Hot Season of Juices
and Scorching Summer) (622) Nabhasyo ( Sharat Ritu of Rains) (623) Bija Vahanah
(Sharat or Autumn) (624) Hemantha (Winter) ( 625) Angirah ( Siva as Angira Rishi)
(626) Gururathreya ( As Dattathreya) (627) Vimalah ( Figure of Purity) (628) Visva
Vahanah ( He as the carrier of the burden of the whole World) (629) Pavanah ( Singularly
Clean) (630) Sumati ( Fair minded) ( 631) Vidwan(An Intellectual par excellence in the
know of every thing) (632) TriVidyah ( The Source of Three Vedas-RigYajur Sama
Vedas) (633) Naravahanah ( Siva as Yaksharaja Kubera) (634) Manobuddhih ( The
epithet of Mind and Mental Power) (635) Ahamkarah ( He takes on the form of
Ahamkara Tatva or a feature of Self-esteem) ( 636) Kshetrajna ( He keeps the knowledge
of the place where Linga Rupas or Raw Forms of the various Beings exist) (637)
Kshetra Palak (He who is the Chief of the Kshetra) (638) Jamadagnih ( Siva as Rishi
Jamagani) (639)(Bala nidhih) He is the Storage Point of Energy) (640) Bingalah ( He
assumes the appearance of Amrith or Ambrosia ( 641) Viswa Gabalah ( Siva as Sage
Viswa Galabha) (642) Viswa Galesa ( Siva as Rishi Galesa) (643) Adhirah Abhyankarah
(He is brave but protects the needy) (644) Anuttarah ( None is greater than Him)(645)
Yagnah ( As the Fire Sacrifices like Jyotish stoma) (646) Shreyah (Embodiment of
Propitiousness) (647) Nisseya- sampathah ( All routes leading to auspiciousness) (648)
Shilah ( River emerging from boulders) (649) Gagan kundabhah (Bright as the flower
Gagan kunda) ( 650) Danavarih ( The Arch-rival of Danavas) (651)Arindamah ( Slayer
of the foes of Devotees) (652) Rajani Janakah ( The Creator of Kalaratri Shakti named
Rajani) (653) Charu Vishalyah ( He has the minute understanding of Inner Beauty) (654)
Loka Kalpa Dhrik ( He is the preserver of the health and wealth of the Lokas) (655) Loka
Shalya Dhrik ( Saviour of the decadance of Lokas)(656) Chaturdah (The Originator of

47

the Four Vedas ( 657) Chaturbhavah ( Siva the Expression of the Four Bhavas viz.
Dharma, Artha, Kama, Moksha) (658) Chathurah ( Highly Intelligent) ( 659) Chatura
priyah ( He who enquires endearingly about the welfare of others with grace) (660)
Amnayaha (Veda Swarupa) (661) Samamnayah (He swears by Vedas) (662) Thirtha
Deva (The Supreme Deity of Thirthas or the Holy Places) (663) Sivalaya (In the
Temple of Siva along with other Deities) (664) Bahurupa ( Siva with several names and
forms) (665) Sarvarupah ( Siva in all forms) (666) Characharah ( Mobile or immobile
beings in the Creation) (667) Nyayah (The Essence of Justice) (668) Nirmayakah (The
Upholder of Virtue) (669) Nyayi ( The Vindicator of Justice ) (670) Yoga Gamya
Nirantharah ( Always Targetted on Yoga) (671) Sahasra murthah ( Of Innumerable
Heads) (672) Devendrah ( The Leader of Devas) (673) Sarva Shastra Prabhanjanah ( The
Editor of Shastras in entirety) ( 674) Mundi (Of netted and folded hair) (675) Virupah (Of
highly attractive countenance) (676) Vikranthah (The most energetic and strong)
(677) Dandi (The Holder of Kala Danda deciding the fates of all) (678) Shantah
(Composed and Calm controlling Indriyas or Physical and mental faculties) (679)
Gunottamah (The Highest Regulator of Gunas or modes of material nature viz. Satvik
or Goodness, Rajasik or Passion and Tamasic or Ignorance) (680) Pingalaksha (RedEyed) (681) Janadhyaksha (The Prime Force of humanity) (682) Nilagrivah (Blue
Throated owing to retention of Halahal poison in His Throat) (683) Niramaya (Picture
of Excellent Health without any physical or mental ailments) (684) Sahasra baahu
(Thousand Handed) (685) Sarvesah (The Ultimate Lord) (686) Sharanyah (The Final
Refuge for Protection) (687) Sarva loka dhrik (The fulcrum of all Lokas) (688)
Padmasana (Seated in Lotus like posture with crossed legs as the right feet on left thigh
and left feet on right thigh) (689) Param Jyothi (Of the highest possible glitter) (690)
Param par (Navigator through muddled waters of Sansar or life full ofTapatrayas(691)
Paramam Phalam (Great Faciltator of attaining Moksha or Salvation) (692)
Padmagarbha (Preserver of Universe in His Lotus like belly) (693) Mahagarbha
(Incorporator of the Totality into Himself) (694) Vichakshana ( Analyser and Guide of
Vedas and Scriptures) (695) Varadah ( Boon provider) (696) Paresaha ( Unique in
fulfilling wishes) ( 697) Maha Balah ( Possessor of Super Strength) (698) Devasura
mahaguruh (He is the Superior Guru or Guide to Devas and Asuras or Demons alike)
(699) Devasura Namaskrithah ( He is venerated by Devas and Asuras) (700) Devasura
Maha Mithrah ( Siva is impartial to both Devas and Danavas and is a great friend of
both)(701) Devasura Mahashraya (He is the refuge point of Devas and asuras too ) (702)
Devadidevah ( He is the Lord of not only Devas but of Adi Devas like Brahma) (703)
Devagnih ( He provides radiance and heat to Agni or Fire) (704) Devagni Sukhadah
Prabhu ( He ensures the well being of Devas by means of oblations through Agni) (705)
Devasureswarh ( Both Gods and Demons are aware that Siva is their Chief) (706) Divyo
( He is of the most celestial form) (707) Devatmatma Sambhavah ( While the Soul of
Devas is created by the Creator, the latters soul is created by Siva Himself) (708)
Sadyonih ( He is the very origin of Srishti) (709) Asura Vyaghra ( He is likened to a
Tiger to Asuras) (710) Deva Simhah (He is like a Lion among the Devas) (711)
Divakarah ( Siva is like the Sun God Surya producing Days) (712) Vibhudhagravarah
(Far Superior to Lord Brahma ) ( 713) Sreshthah ( The Highest) (714) SarvaDevothamothamah ( While Devas are themselves are grand, Siva is far more Superior)

48

(715) Sivajnana ratha (He is totally absorbed in Awareness about Himself or Sivajnana)
(716) Sriman (He is the Store House of Prosperity)(717) Sikhi (He as Karthikeya ) ( 718)
Sri Parvata Priyah ( He is fond of Mountains) (719) Vajrahastaya ( Siva in the shape of
Indra who wields Vajrayudha in his hands) (720) Siddhi Khadgi ( He who possesses the
Sword into which are incorporated all kinds of Siddhis) (721) Narasimha nipatahanah
( As in the form of Salabha pulls down the incarnation of Narasimha) (722) Brahmachari
( An expert in Vedas who keeps on reciting Vedas incessantly) (723) Lokachari ( He who
analyses the happenings of various Lokas) (724) Dharmachari ( He is the performer of
Virtuous deeds always) (725) Dhanadhipah ( The Head of Wealth of varying kinds like
Property, Liquidity and material possession ) (726) Nandi ( Siva in the shape of Nandi or
Bull) (727) Nandiswarh ( The Chief of Bulls) (728) Ananthah ( The boundless verging on
into nothingness) (729) Nagna Vrittha Dhrik ( Neither He has a form nor wears anything)
( 730) Suchih ( Fully Pure and flawless) (731) Lingadhakshah (Siva in the form of the
Presiding Deity of Lingas) (732) Suradhakshaya (The Presiding Chief of Devas) (733)
Yogadhakshah (The Presiding Deity of Yoga Practitioners) (734) Yogapaha ( He who
propounds the Theory and Pratcice of Yogas (735) Swadharmah (He who is absorbed in
His own act of Srishti or Creation) (736) Swargataha (He resides in Swarga from where
grants boons) (737) Swargi Swara (The Supreme Guide to the Creators or Rishis of Sapta
Swaras (738) Swara Maya Swanah Karakah ( The Originator of sonorous sounds of
Swaras) ( 739) Banadhakshah (The Controller of Banasasura) (740) Bijakartha ( The
cause of germinating seeds) (741) Karma krith Dharma Sambhavah ( He generates
virtuous persons performing good deeds) (742) Dambhah (Siva examines the genuinness
of devotees by various forms and acts) (743) Alobhah (He has no Greed but broad vision)
(744) Ardha Vicchumbh (He who commends those with knowledge of Vedas and
Shastras) (745) Sarva bhuta Maheswarah ( He is present in all beings as the Supreme
Lord) (746) Smashana Nilayah ( He resides in Burial Ground since these are the ultimate
terminating points of relieved souls and deceased bodies) (747) Thryakshah (Trinetra
Deva) (748) Sethuh (The bridge to cross the ocean of Samsara or Life) (749)
Apratimakrithih (The Form of Nothingness from Prakriti or Maya / Illusion) (750)
Lokotthara sphutalokah (He could be visioned by mental eye sight alone) (751)
Thryambakah (The Three Eyed or of Three Gunas viz. the modes of material nature)
(752) Naga Bhushana (Ornamented by various Serpents like Sesh Nag) (753)
Andhakarih( The destroyer of Andhakasura) (754) Makhadweshi ( Siva the demolisher of
Daksha Prajapatis Yagna) (755) Vishnu kandhara pathana ( The slasher of Vishnus
head ) (756) Hinadoshah ( Devoid of impurities of mind) (757) Akshaya gunah ( An
Epitome of endless qualities of high merit) (758) Daksharih ( The antagonist of Daksha )
(759) Pusha danta bhit ( The hacker of Demon Pusha Danti ) (760) Purna Sampurna Kala
Yukth ( He who is comprehensive with sixty four Kalasor Arts such as Shilpa Kala,
Natya Kala and Sangeeta Kala) (761) Poorayitha ( He helps fulfill desires) (762) Punya
(Merits arising out of different kinds of services to Gods, humanity, and other species)
(763) Sukumarah ( Sivas Son Skanda) (764) Sulochana ( Attractive Eyed) (765)
Samageya Priya (The Lover of Sama Veda recital) (766) Akrura (The Merciful) (767)
Punya Kirthi ( Famous owing to Great Merit and Virtue) ( 768) Anaamaya ( Free from all
diseases) (769) Manojavah ( Quick in solving problems of devotees) (770) Thirtha karah
( Producer of Pramanas or Proofs of Shastras) ( 771) Jatilah ( The wearer of Jatajuta or
netted hair) (772) Jeevitheswarah ( Giver of Life to all ) (773) Jeevithanta -karah ( The

49

Provider of Life and also its End) ( 774) Vasurethah ( Of Gold coloured sperm) (775)
Vasu pradah ( The Benefactor of Gold and Jewellery) (776) Sadgatih ( He provides Good
behaviour and pathway) (777) Samskriti ( He provides solutions to Lifes tribulations)
(778) Siddhis ( He grants fruitful results to dedicated endeavours) (779) Sajjathi ( He
awards good births to those who are noble and devoted) (780) Kalakantak (He is the
Tormentor of Tormenters viz. Lord Yama) (781) Kaladhari (He bestows expertise and
fame of any or all of sixty four Kalas or Arts) (782) Maha Kal (Lord Siva is the Greatest
Kal Devatha and is the Supreme Destroyer) (783) Bhuta Satya Parayana (He encourages
or inspires Truthfulness among all human beings and is the final refuge to them) (784)
Loka Lavanya Karthah (Charming builder of Lokas) (785) Lokottara (He maintains the
happiness of the Universe at His command) (786) Chandra (He is as cool as gorgeous)
(787) Sanjivanah (He has the innate power of keeping the Worlds ever lasting) (788)
Sastha (Law maker and Punishes the Evil Forces) (789) Loka Goodhah (Hides enormous
capacity inside the caves of His mind) (790) Mahadhipah (The Highest Level of
Superiority over the World) (791) Loka Bandhuh( He treats all the Beings of the World
as His own relatives) (792) Kritya ( As the epitome of Srutis and Smrities or Vedas and
Shastras, He guides humanity to distinguish the right and the wrong) (793) Lokanathah
(He is the unquestioned King of the various Lokas) (794) Kritamjanah ( He is indeed
cognizant of the wrongdoings and the Virtues of what each and every person does) (795)
Kirthi Bhushanah ( He is adorned by His reputation) (796) Anapayoksharah ( He is
imperishable and inexaustible) (797) Kanthah ( He could even terminate Yama the God
of Death) (798) Sarva Shastrah ( He is the personification of all Shastras) (799)
Shritanvarah ( He is the Leader) (800) Tejomayah ( He is fully resplendent) (801) Dyuthi
dharanah ( He possesses the capacity of holding and sustaining Extraordinary radiance )
(802) Loka namagrani ( He is The Worlds best)) ( 803) Anuhu (He is present in the
tiniest atom) (804) Suchismithah (He has a charming and petty smile) (805) Prasannatma
(He is the extraordinary Soul with the most tranquil poise) (806) Durjayoh (Invincible
even by the most notorious Demons of the World) (807) Durathikramah (Unsurpassable)
(808) Jyotirmayah (Full of Extraordinary Luminosity) (809) Jagannathah ( The Unique
Lord of Cosmos) (810) Nirakarah ( He has neither shape nor form) (811) Jaleswarah
(He is the Commander of Water in various appearances like Lakes, Rivers or Oceans)
(812) Thambu Veenah ( The Greatest Expert of Music in playing Veena Instrument made
of Thambu Fruit) (813) Mahakopah ( The Angriest and the most ferocious while engaged
in activities of destruction) ( 814) Loka naasakarah ( He could wipe out Lokas instantly)
(815) Trilokesah ( The Highest of the Three Worlds) (816) Trilokapah ( The Chief
Administrator of the Three Lokas) (817) Sarvashuddhih ( The Purifier of all the Beings)
(818) Adhodyakshah ( One could know Him from within or be learnt of Him by ones
inner eye) (819) Avyakta lakshana Deva (His features are unknown) (820)
Vyaktaavyaktah ( As a Being with a realisable figure He is no doubt definable but at the
same time, since He has no Shape nor Form, He is not recognisable) (821) Viswam
pathih ( The Absolute monarch of the Universe) (822) Varada Sheelah ( The Afforder of
boons) (823) Vara Gunah ( Ornamented with Excellent Gunas or attributes) (824) Sarah
(The Essence of Virtues) (825) Maana dhana ( He who considers high merit as wealth)
(826) Mayah ( Embedded in happiness) (827) Brahma (Siva as the incarnation of
Brahma) (828) Vishnu (As Vishnu the All Pervading and as the Preserver) (829) Haasah
(As the Remover of Ignorance and Bright as Parabrahma) (830) Hamsa Gatih (The

50

Liberator as the traverser of Hamsa or Swan guiding Yogis)(831) Vayah (As the free bird
who flies on the Skies of Yoga) (832) Vedha (A famed name of Siva as Creator) (833)
Vidhata (The Decider of Fate of each Being as per ones own Karma) (834) Dhatha (Who
assumes infinite Forms) (835) Srishta (The Creator) (836) Hartha ( The Devastator) (837)
Chaturmukha ( As the Four Headed Brahma) (838) Kailasa Sikhara Vasi ( The Resident
of the Kailasa Mountain Top) (839) Sarva vasi ( He who resides as the Antaratma or the
Inner Soul of every Being) (840) Sadgatih ( The Conductor of Noble Path) (841) Hiranya
Garbhah ( As Brahma who has the Golden Belly) (842) Druhinah ( As Brahma Swarup)
(843) Bhutapalah ( The Governor of all Pranis or Beings) (844) Bhupathih ( The Master
of Earth) (845) Sadyogi ( The Planner of beneficent deeds ) ( 856) Yoga Vid Yogi ( The
Learned Guide to Yogis) (857) Varada (The Endower of Windfalls) (858) Brahmana
Priyah (Affectionate to Brahmanas) (859) Deva Priya (Interested in the well being of
Devas) (860) Devanatha (Chief of Deva ganas) (861) Devajna (Encourages Devas to
acquire higher knowledge) (862) Deva Chintak (Always engrossed in the welfare of
Devas as also to those who pray to Devas) (863) Vishamaaksha (His Third Eye full of
Poisonous Fire) (864) Visalaksha (He who has broad and attractive Eyes) (865)
Vrishadah (Siva as an Epitome of Dharma or Virtue) (866) Vrisha Vardhanah (Promoter
of Dharma) (867) Nirmama (Selfless) (868) Nirahankara (Devoid of ego) (869) Nirmoha
(Devoid of obsession) (870) Nirupadrava (Devoid of obstacles) (871) Darpaha Darpadah
(He subdues the Arrogant) (872) Triptah (Totally contented) (873) Sarvatra Parivarthak
(He brings about change all over; He transforms Rithus or Seasons alternatively) (874)
Sahasrarchi ( He has countless rays of radiance) (875) Sahasrajit ( Victorious after
slaying thousands of enemies) (876) Bhuti bhushah ( Blesses various Beings with boons)
(877) Snigdha Prakriti Dakshinah ( Very talented and soft- minded owing to natural
amicability) (878) Bhuta Bhavya Bhavannadhah ( The Discerner of the Past, Present and
Future) (879) Prabhavah ( The Creator) (880) Bhuti nashanath (He wipes out the wealth
of Enemies) (881) Arthah (He encourages the Wealth earned by hard work) (882)
Anarthah (He knocks down money earned by foul means) (883) Mahakoshah (The Mine
of Wealth) (884) Para karya pundithah (Being self-less He fulfills the objectives of others
or His devotees) (885) Nishkantakah ( He is devoid of hurdles generated by
Arishdvargas viz. Kama, Krodha, Lobha, Moha, Mada, Matsara) (886) Kritha
Anandaha ( He has uninterrupted happiness) (887) Nirvyajah ( He is totally free from
deceit) (888) Vyaja Mardanah ( Punisher of dishonesty) (889) Satvavan ( Brave and
valiant Hero) (890) Satvikah ( Essentially of Satva Guna) (891) Satya Kirthih ( He has
truthful glory) (892) Sneha Krithagamah ( Being friendly and affectionate, He exhorts the
Essence of Sciptures to devotees) (893) Akampith (unnerved and unmoved) (894)
Gunagrahi ( He gracefully accepts even small offerings from devotees) (895) Naikatma
(He is Multi Souled) ( 896) Naika karma krith ( performs multiple actions) ( 897)
Supreetha ( He is full of Great Happiness) (898) Sookshmah ( Of Tiny Form; but capable
of expanding endlessly; Sarva gathah Sookshmam) (899) Su karah ( His hands ready to
bestow wishes) (900) Dakshinagatih (He is delighted to appear in the form of cool breeze
from the Southern side) (901) Nandi skandha dharaha (Seated comfortably on the
shoulders of Nandi Deva) (902) Dhuryah ( He holds innumerable Beings of Creation)
(903) Prakatah (He is visible and felt in various Forms of Sun, Moon, Fire and Wind)
(904) Preethi Vardhanah ( He enriches the love of devotees both ways) (905) Aparajithah
( Invincible) (906) Sarva Sattavah ( Creates the entire humanity) ( 907) Govindah ( He is

51

revealed by Vedas and Scriptures) (908) Sattva Vahanah ( He enables forward

movement from Virtue to Salvation) (909) Adhritah ( None else could hold excepting
Him) ((910) Swadritha (The devotees feel confident of being supported by the Lord)
(911) Siddhah (He is the archetype or Role Model of all Siddhas like Anima (Shrinking
form), Mahima (Limitless forms), Garima (heavy form), Laghima (Tight form), Prapti
(Fulfillment of desires), Prakasyam (of Irressistible Will), Isithvam (Supremacy), and
Vasityam (Gain control) (912) Putha Murthi (Of Pure Figure) (913) Yasho dhanah
(Wealth of Great Reputation) (914) Varaha Shringa Dhrikchhrungi ( Siva as the
incarnate of Vishnu who assumed the form of Varaha the mighty Boar with a powerful
horn and rescued the sinking Earth and Vedas) (915) Balavan ( He is the mightiest Super
Power) (916) Eka Nayakah (Singular and Ultimate) (917) Shruti Prakashah (He could be
revealed by Vedas only) (918) Shrutiman (He is in the possession of Vedas always) (919)
Eka Bandhu (He is the Singular Relative to all) (920) Aneka Krithih (He is a Single
Entity but creates a multitude; Bahusyam Prajayethi Thadatmanam Swayam kuruth)
(921) Sri Vatsalah Sivarambhah (Siva is the intiator of propitiousness to Vishnu and
Lashmi) (922) Shanta Bhadrah (The Guarantor of Security to His devotees engaged in
peaceful activities) (923) Samoyashah (Imparts impartial access to Fame with Prosperity)
(924) Bhushaya (He rests on Earth) (925) Bhushanah (He provides wealth to all the
deserving) (926) Bhutih (Siva is the Well- Wisher to one and all) (927) Bhoota Krit (He
is the Generator of All) (929) Bhootavahanah (He faciltitates the movement of all
Beings) (930) Bhakti Kayakah (He absorbs all kinds of Worship) (931) Akampith (He is
unperturbed by material attractions and stable) (932) Kalah (Maha Kal who spares none
for destruction) (933) Nilalohithah ( Ratainer of poisonous flames in His throat turned
blue) (934) Satyavratha ( Unique Practitioner of Truthfulness) (935) Maha Tyagi (The
Greatest Renunciator) (936) Nitya Shanti Parayana (The Eternal Observer of Peace)
(937) Parartha Bhritir Varada (He blessess those who are interested in Parartha or Other
Worldliness ) (938) Visarada ( The Expert in various Disciplines of Learning) (939)
Subhadah ( Grants auspiciousness) (939) Subha nama Subhadah Swayam ( As one of His
names is Subha, He awards propitiousness) (940) Anarthika (He grants wishes without
asking for them) (941) Agunah ( He has no Gunas or features Himself) (942) Saakshi
Akartha ( He is the Evidence of Creation executed by Maya or Illusion) (943) Kanaka
Prabhuh ( Like Gold He is self illuminated) (944) Swabhava Bhadrah ( Whatever is
desired in the minds of devotees is granted instantly by Him) (945) Seeghrah ( Swift
Dispenser of the wishes of devotees) (946) Seeghra nashanah ( Rapid reliever of the
difficulties of Bhaktas) (947) Jata and Mundi ( Siva as unique with Jatajuta or thick and
twisted hair on His Head; Mundi or Shaven Head (948) Kundalini ( He has Snake like
Ear rings) (949) Sikhandi as the name of Siva, Kavachi or Body Shielded and Shuli or
speared) (950) Amrithyah ( He has no demise as He has no Beginning or End) (951)
Sarva Dushta Simhah ( Exterminator of all the Wicked ) (952) Tejo Rasi ( Fund of Light)
(953) Maha Mani ( The Best of Jewels like Kaustubh) ( 954) Asamkhyeh ( He has
countless Forms) (955) Aprameyatma ( An indestructible Super Soul) ( 956) Viravan
Virya Kovidah ( A Master of Bravery and Might) (957) Maheshvasah( The Holder of the
World-Reputed Bow and arrows) (958) Vedyah ( It is He whom Yogis seek to learn all
about) (959) Viyogatma ( He has a distinct yet unknowable Outline) (960) Paaravaar
Muniswarah ( He is the Supreme Sage whom Humanity and Devas yearn to know all
about) (961) Anuttama (Parama Sreshtha Prameswara) (962) Dhuradarshah (He has

52

such piercing vision that is impossible even to glance) (963) Madhura Priya Darshanah
(Of unimaginably stunning and attractive figure) (964) Suresah ( Super Lord of Devas)
( 965) Sharanam ( He takes into hold the whole Universe for His care) (966) Parvah ( He
has a Total view of the World) (967) Sabda Brahma ( His Voice is of Vedas from
Brahmas Four Faces) (968) Sataam Gatih ( Sadhus and the Virtuous are in the constant
search of His Path) (969) Kaala Paksha ( He helps Kaal Deva in the task of Creation)
(970) Kaala Kaalah (Superior to Kaala Deva) (971) Sukrithih (The Best of Righteous
Deed Makers) (972) Kritha Vasuki ( The Creator of the Great Serpent Vasuki ) (973)
Maheswasaha ( The Holder of Great Bow) ( 974) Mahi Bhartha (He grasps the entire
World) (975) Nishkalankah (Blemishless) (976) Visrunkhala (He bestows the power of
breaking chains of Maya or Illusion) (977) Dyutimanirstharani (As He assumes the form
of Surya and swims across the Ocean of Samsara or Maya) (978) Dhanyah (He blesses
those who do service to humanity) (979) Siddhardhah (He is the Great Siddhi Himself)
(980) Siddhi Sadhanah (He enables in guiding those who seek attainment of Siddhis;
(981) Viswathah Sarvatah (He is Present all over the Universe with Maya) (982)
Samudra Vritthasthu (Surrounded by Oceans) (983) Stulyah (Venerated by all including
Devas, Danavas and Humans) (984)Vyudhoraskah (Broad chested) (985) Mahabhujah
(Broad shouldered) (986) Sarva yonih (The Grand Originator of the Universe) (987)
Niratankah ( Devoid of Tapatrayas or Adhi Bhautika or External / Physical problems,
Adyatmika or internal diseases and Adi Divika or Natural impediments) ( 988) Nara
Narayana Priyah ( Extremely pleased with the Twin Sages of Nara and Narayana ) (989)
Nirlepah ( Un- contaminated) ( 990) Nishprapanchatmah ( The Super Soul without the
Worldly features of Panchabhutas) (991) Nirvyangya ( The Creator of Special Physical
parts) ( 992) Vyanga naasanah ( The destroyer of distorted Body Parts ) ( 993) Stavah
(Highly Desirous of Worshipping Siva) (994) Vyasa Murthi ( Siva in the Form of Veda
Vyasa)(995) Niramkushah ( Fully Independent) ( 996) Nirvadhya mayopaya ( Of
Blemishless form) (997) Vidya Rashi (Fund of Vidyas) (997) Nirapaya ( Imperishable)
(998) Rasa Priyah (He is delighted with Nava Rasas) (999) Prashantha Buddhih (Of
Exceedingly sober and cool disposition) (1000) Akshannah (Ignored) (1001) Sangrah
(Amasses Devotees) (1002) Nitya Sundarah (Always Exquisite) (1003)Vyaghra dhuryah
(Sportive of Tiger Skin) (1004) Dhatreswarah( Sovereign of entire Earth) (1005)
Shakalyah ( Siva in the form of Sakalya Muni) (1006) Sharvari Pathih ( The Lord of the
Nights) (1007) Paramardha Guru ( The Supreme Bestoyer of Salvation) (1008) Drishstih
(The image of Chakshu Devatha is the Goddess of Vision) (1009) Sharisrayashraya
Vatsalah ( Fond of Jeevas or Linga Sharirashaving Physical Bodies after death) (1010)
Somah ( Light up with Moon) (1011) Rasojnapakah ( He who has the taste of Halahala
poisonous flame) (1012) Sarva satvavanambanah ( Siva the Supreme Power surrounded
by one and all).
[Basically Sahasranamas or one thousand Names; the above take into account a few
groups of Names. Omissions and commisions are regretted]

53

Phala Sruti of Sivasahasranama Stotra

Bhagavan Vishnu did the worship by placing Lotus flowers at the feet of Parama Siva
Linga, reciting the Saharanamas as given above. But at the end of the worship,
Parameswara concealed the last Lotus Flower to test and Bhagavan Vishnu without any
hesitation whatsoever was ready to pull out one of His eyes and place it as a lotus in lieu
of the Final Name, while Maha Siva appeared instantly and stopped the action of the
intended Sacrifice. From the Form of Linga being worshipped by Vishnu, the Fantastic
Figure of Maha Siva emerged and addressed the former that He was well aware of the
tribulations of Devas who were constanly tormented by Danavas; He was pleased to
award Sudarshana Chakra. Maha Siva assured Vishnu that Sudarshan Chakra was as
potent as Maha Deva Himself and its very possession ought to be a great relief to Vishnu
since He was squarely responsible to preserve the world and its contents comprising the
entirety of mobile and immobile beings. Also whoever reads, hears or recites the
Powerful Sahasranama of Siva by cogitating the critical meaning of each Name provides
immense peace of mind and confidence, courage to face any challenge, surmount any
tribulation, and better still bestow all positive turns of life. Be there even any problem
posed by a King or Administration, one should perform Anga Nyasa and recite the
Thousand and odd Names sincerely, and indeed there would be instant relief for sure.
Even otherwise, the Recital would destroy illness, endow with Vidya, grant prosperity,
fulfil all desires and finally pave way for Sayujyam.
Some Illustrious Devotees to Siva and Special Austerities in Worship
Among millions of Devotees to Bhagavan Siva, a few of them are illustrious like
Durvasa, Viswamitra, Daddhichi, Gautama, Bhargava, Brihaspati, Vaishampayana,
Parashar, Vyas, Upamanyu, Yagavalka, Jaimini and Garg. King Sudyumnas experiene
was indeed interesting as he became a woman since he entered a specific forest due to an
embargo by Siva not to do so. When the King meditated intensely, Siva was pleased to
lighten the curse and granted a boon that he would become a man every alternate month!
When asked by Devi Parvati as to which were the best dates that a devotee should
observe austerities, Bhagavan Siva prescribed the following days viz. on the eighth day
of every month when a day long fast could be ended by the same night; on the day of
Kalashtami however the fast should be on the day as well as night and be observed till
the next morning; on the thirteenth day of the dark lunar month or the Krishna Trayodasi
(especially during Magha Month) the fast should be on day/night basis, while Sukla
Trayodasi fast be observed only day long. But on Sukla Ekadasi, fast should be observed
on day-night basis and on Krishna Ekadasi fast may be upto the night. Fast be also
observed every Monday till the night. On any of the Fast days, Siva Archana, Rudra Japa,
Rudra Abhisheka and visit to Siva Temple are the best. The last few days of ones life at
Varanasi with austerities and Siva darshana/ worship do deserve salvation.

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Observance of Maha Sivarathri and its significance

Austerities by way of day/night fasts and dedicated devotion on Maha Sivaratri falling on
Krishna Paksha or dark fortnight of Phalguna month every year are considered as the
sure steps to Iham and Param viz. Happiness in the current phase of Life and
Attainment of Salvation threafter! In the early morning of Sivarathi day, a devotee
should take a vow to observe day/night austerities. In the night or Sivarathri, there must
be Archana, Abhisheka, Japa and full fledged worship either at a Temple or at home
depending on convenience; actually the worship by way of continuous Maha
Nyasayutha Abhishekawith Archana along with Shodasopacharas or the sixteen types
of Services and Arti, but for the sake of convenience, the Puja may be repeated every
three hours during the night along with Laghu Nyasa Abhisheka, Archana, Arti etc. The
night long austerity must be followed by Punah Puja next morning and Bhojan (meals)
along Brahmanas, who should also be satisfied with Dakshinas. After observing
Sivarathris for fourteen consecutive years, one could perform Udyapan or successful
completion of the Sivarathri Vratha.
Observance of Maha Sivarathri even by mistake could yield fruits, let alone proper and
systematic worship; this was illustrated by an incident said Sutha Muni at the
congregation of Sages at Naimisaranya. There was a poor hunter named Gurudruha who
became extremly hungry along with his family members on a whole day and that night
happened to be a Sivarathri. He entered a forest on the eve of Sivarathri and waited for
any animal to kill and satisfy the hunger; he waited near a waterbody over a bel tree
nearby under which there was a Siva Linga as a coincidence. Having waited for the first
Prahara (three hours) of the night, he was lucky to have sighted a female deer along its
kids approaching the water body to quench its thirst. He pulled out his bow and an arrow
ready to aim at the mother deer and by a twist of fate the branch of the bel tree on which
he sat moved, some bel leaves fell on the Siva Linga and some water in a vessel carried
by the hunter got spilt down on the Linga, thus performing the first Phahara puja.The
deer which was very sensitive even to small sounds of leaves and water falling from the
tree noticed that the hunter was ready to kill it. The animal made a sincere and
convincing request to the hunter that if allowed it desired to leave the deer kids to their
father and definitely return bach to be killed by him. Very reluctantly, the hunter agreed
and let the animals leave. The second Prahara was closing but there was no trace of the
mother deer. But the sister of the earlier deer approached the pond along her kids and the
happenings of the earlier Prahara repeated viz.the hunter pulled out his bow and arrow,
the bel tree leaves as also the water drops from the hunters vessel fell on the Siva Linga,
the sister deer made a similar request and the hunter let the animal leave as he did to the
earlier one, thus accomplishing the worship of the third Prahara. As the third Prahara was
closing, the husband of the original deer came in search of the female deer and the kids
and the earlier happenings repeated once again and the earlier Prahara puja too was
executed successfully. It was a great sight of all the deers of both the families approached
during the final Prahara and the hunter was delighted that he could have a feast any time
but the earlier happenings repeated and the fourth Prahara worship too was implemented.
But, after the fourth worship, Gurudruhas psychology was transformed; he repented for

55

his evil thoughts and took a vow to eschew his erstwhile acts of violence. Bhagavan Siva
revealed Himself before Gurudruha as a transformed person and blessed him that in his
next birth, he would be Nishad during Ramas incarnation and the latter would give him
the boon of attaining Vaikuntha.
Steps towards Salvation
Bhagavan Siva revealed to Lord Vishnu who in turn informed Brahma and further down
to Sanat Kumaras to Maharshi Narada and Vyasa that the steps to Salvation are basically
four-fold viz. Sarupya (Resemblance of Paramathma), Salokya (Being in the sphere of
Paramatma) Sannidhya (Proximity to Paramatma) and Sayujya (Union with
Paramatma). Lords Brahma and Vishnu could certainly bestow the first Three
Purusharthas viz. Dharma, Artha and Kama, or Virtuosity, Wealth and Worldly Desires
respectively. But granting Moksha or Salvation is in the competence of Bhagavan Siva
alone. He could also bestow Kaivalya or the Ultimate Stage, the knowledge of Siva
Tatvam or Vilakshana / Nirguna Kind of Uniqueness which is not fully known to Brahma
or Vishnu, Kumara and the Entirety of Maharshis.Siva Tatvam is described by Veda
Vyasa as: Satyam Jnanamanantham cha Sacchidananda Sangjnikam / Nirguno
nirupadhischaavyayah Shudho niranjanah. (Sivas everlasting form is of Sat-chitananda or Existence, Consciousness and Bliss; it has no Gunas or attibutes, nirupadhi
(without features of Prakriti and Purusha), Avayah (Irreducible), Shuddha (Spotless) and
Niranjana (Supreme Enlightenment). This Parabrahma is all pervading like sky;
Mayatheetham Paratmanam Dwandaateetham Vimatsaram Thath Prapthischa
Bhavedatra Sivajnodayad Dhruvam (This Paramatma is beyond Maya or Illusion, is only
one and unique and has no traits like Matsaram or jealousy). To realise Paramathma is
well-nigh impossible. The route is complicated by Jnana and Siva Tatvam that might
sound too complex and confounding. But simple, sincere, fully dedicated Devotion
(Bhakthi) could make miracles. Bhakti is another form of Selflessness, Sacrifice,
Persverance, Loyalty, and Complete Surrender. Bhakti and Jnan are two sides of a coin.
Yet one cannot claim to become a Jnani nor attain Moksha without Bhakti. Bhakti in
pure form is a prerequisite to Moksha with or without Jnana. [Devaradhana Stotra of
Adi Sankara stated that he was not conversant with Mantras, Yanthras, Hymns of Praise,
Invocations, Meditation, Mudras, Stories of Your Glories and imploraions; yet, he knows
how to follow Paramatma with Bhakti; thus the most essential features are faith and
effort.] But the advanced stage of Bhakti is automatically followed by Jnana in the sense
that higher level of Bhakti is facilitated by minimal Jnana or working knowledge). In
other words, Jnana per se without regard to Bhakti is not possible. Advanced Stage of
Bhakti would face a ceiling without reference to required level of Jnana. Having said this,
Bhakti would be of two Formats viz. Nirguna (abstract form) and Saguna (with physical
form); also Bhakti is of either Naishtik or without aiming at a specific desire or of
Anoushtik variety with desires.
On an enquiry about the variety of manifestations of Paramatma (The Greatest Soul), the
doubt of identity of The Super Soul was whether of Brahma or Vishnu and Siva. Muni
Sutha replied that at the Time of Creation, Paramatma had neither a form, nor Gunas
(Physical Attributes) and nor name. That Supersoul was loosely called Siva. That Siva or

56

Purusha was in Self- Union the Prakrithi. Together, they performed Tapasya or
concentration in a huge ocean and that Sacred Place was known as Pancha Kosas or
the Five Sheaths. [Annamaya Kosa or Physical Body; Pranamaya Kosa or Prana /Linga
Sarira or Vital Astral Sarira; Manonmaya Kosa or the lower Manas or Mind; Vijnana
Maya Kosa or Higher Manas Kosa and finally Anandamaya Kosa corresponding to the
Spiritual Soul or Buddhi] The Sixth Kosa enclosing the Pancha Kosas is Divine Atman.
The Union of Siva and Prakrithi both created Hari Narayana (Nara being water) or who
was spread over the huge water. From Narayanas navel stood up a Lotus Stem and over
the Flower was created Brahma. As there was conflict among the Trimurthis seeking inter
-se superiority, Siva presented Himself as Maha Deva. He assured that all the manifes tations of Himself were equally powerful and each of them was capable of giving boons
to their devotees as well. They are like the same gold base but moulded into different
ornaments. It was only notional that the tasks of Srishti, Sthithi and Laya were self
assigned but each one of the Murthis is eqaully responsible. Similarly, there is no
distinction between Siva and Rudra. Siva explained that Brahma created Rudra to
perform the specific task of Laya, where as the Original and Unique Self, Siva is the
Super Soul or Paramatma responsible for everything. Rudra is always prayed to but never
prays to any body. Whoever prays to Lord Rudra, the strength and fruits of the Prayers
are automatically transferred to Siva.
Siva Gyan Its Import and the Course
Ishanah Sarva Vidyanam Srutiresha Sanathani / Veda kartha Veda pathih
Tasmaccambhurudahtritha / Sa evam Shankarah Saakshaat sarva anugraha
karakah/Kartha Bhartha cha Harthaacha Sakshi Nirguna eva Sah /
(Siva is the Master of all Vidyas or Knowledge, the Origin of Vedas and their Chief; He
is the epitome of mercy, the Evidence of Creation, Preservation and destruction and the
Unique Nirguna). He is the Cause of Causes; the Act, the Action and the Actor; the
Sarva Swarup or The Multiple Images and Eka Swarup or the One and Only Figure.
Like a Seed becomes a fruit and the fruit yields seeds, Siva is the Seed and the Fruit too.
From Parabrahma to a piece of grass, it is all Siva only. But, invariably human beings
consider Him as entirely different from themselves. One tends to address Him as You
as separate from Me, little realising that both are not detached Entities. It is the
understanding of this simple truth that Siva Gyan is all about. The reason of this
disconnect is due to the interplay of Illusion and the Self. Be it Earth, or Ocean or Ether
there are countless forms of Siva in dissimilar dimensions, yet there is an infinite
diversity in a unique unity. It is one Sun on the Sky but the reflections in various water
bodies assume myriad forms. The Sky is spread out covering the entire Universe, but no
object in Creation could ever ever touch it despite the greatest human effort. While
human beings are subject to the Arishadvargas or Six Enemies of Desire, Anger,
Avarice, Obsession, Ego and Jealousy, Siva is of Pure Form of All-Pervading, Never
Ending, All Knowing and Permanent Nature. Human beings need to be purified and
polished with Samskaras as in respect of Gold with Acid and Fire and more
significantly the deftness of a Guru.When Jeevatma of Human Beings gets freed from
life, it gets absorbed in Siva Swarup.

57

As a new life is initiated again as per preordained decisions of Fate, the superior beings
or Jnanis neither get elated with their possessions nor feel dejected with disappointments
but practise equanimity. Once the Ego or Ahamkara is washed off and ignorance is
uprooted, the Bhakta (Devotee) could take the route of full consciouness to Bhagavan
Siva and then he is ripe to resort to worship by boldly reciting Siva Sthotras in loud voice
and pave the way for assuming Siva Gyan or Siva Tatva. As the Bhakta qualifies for Siva
Gyan and is well set on the route to Siva Tatva, the pulls and pressures of Samsara or
the Earthly issues keep fading away and Adhyatmika Gyan gains priortity. Siva Bhakti
having paramount importance, Pure Bhakti paves the way to Prem or Love to all coexistent beings; from Prem to Shravan (hearing) or the unending aptitude to learn; from
the learning process the next step is Satsang or companionship of Virtuous Persons or
Vidwans or Experts; then emerges a Guru who would ship-shape the process of
Upasana or the penultimate step before Mukti.

Lord Krishna approaches Sage Upamanu for Siva Darshan

Although Lord Krishna was blessed with His son Pradumna from Devi Rukmini, His
other wives especially Satyabhama were keen on further offspring and He therefore
approached Sage Upamanyu to guide Him to fulfil the desire for Siva Darshan. The Sage
was a known devotee of Bhagavan Siva and had glimpses of the Bhagavan when He was
sorrounded by Lords Vishnu and Brahma, Devas and Devi Parvathi. The Sage recalled
that he aked for three boons viz. that he should be a Siva Bhakta always, that he should
secure the knowledge of visualising the past, present and future and that his family
should never be devoid of rice and milk. Bhagavan was pleased with Upamanyu and
granted him the boons and also blessed him to live for long till Vaivasvata Manvantara.
Having given his own experiences with Bhagavan Siva, the Sage initiated Lord Krishna
into Siva Tapasya and gave the Mantra Om Namah Sivaya. Krishna performed severe
meditation by standing on His toes for sixteen months. Thereafter, Bhagavan Siva blessed
Krishna with His appearance in full splendour with Parvathi Devi seated on his Nandi
Vahana along with Devas, Pramathaganas and a big procession of Sages. Lord Krishna
prostrated before Siva and Parvathi and asked for eight boons viz. that His intelligence
should guide the World into righteousness, that He should bless Him to attain immortal
fame, that He should have an abode in the proximity of Bhagavan, that He should keep
promoting devotion to Siva Deva always, that He be blessed to secure ten valiant and
worthy sons, that He be victorious of enemies, that He be blessed to overcome any evil
force in the Universe, and that He should guide and be guided by Yogis and Sages. Lord
Krishna also sought boons from Devi Parvathi that He should be in the service of His
parents and Brahmanas always. Following the Spectacular Darshan of Bhagavan and
Devi Parvathi, Lord Krishna described the great impact that Siva Darshana had on
Himself to Sage Uapmanyu and thanked the Sage for the favour.

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Description of Mahapathakas (Greatest Sins) and various other sins

In the Uma Samhita, the description of Maha Pathakas and other medium kind of Sins
was highlighted. Among the Great Sins committed are by way of sinful thoughts
(Manasik) viz. about others wealth, women, evil of others and lust for others; or by way
of Speech (Vachak) involving others viz. loose talk, lies, critical remarks, and worst of all
complaining about others behind the back; and physical based sins viz. eating or drinking
prohibited items; Violence against co-humans, animals and all other species; performing
illegal or non virtuous acts and exploiting others money and property. Besides the above
twelve sins, the worst possible sin is by way of criticizing the Supreme Siva Himself
which deserves to be drowned in the deep Sea of Hell. There are additional six sins of
unpardonable nature viz. criticism of the followers of Siva, ones own Guru (preceptor),
Parents, finding fault of Siva Gyan, stealing the money of Brahmanas, and pilfering Siva
worship related books and other objects. Further, Sinners include those who do not
perform Siva Puja, ignore the worship of Sivas Parthiva Linga, heckle at the genuine
devotees of Siva, those who exist in a care free world without discipline or fear of Siva,
who resort to charity of money earned fraudulently, mislead innocent persons in the name
of Siva, those who are untruthful, physically or mentally uncouth and possess bad
company. The Pancha Maha Pathakas are to kill or abet to kill others especially of
Brahmanas, indulge in wine drinking, robbing, lust with Gurus wife, and develop
intimacy with those who execute the above sins. Equally sinful are the acts of taking back
donations from Brahmanas; burning cowsheds, forests, houses, or Cities; performing a
wedding by force or on ulterior considerations; incest of any kind, rape, extra marital
affairs, and so on.
Among many other sins mentioned by Sanat Kumara were greed, jealousy of good
persons, committing pilferages in Temples, harassing persons of Ashramas, spoiling or
even utilising the wealth of women, taking advantage of women for bad purposes
especially in the pretext of providing security to them, adopting or persuading persons to
adopt religions of others, reading and forcing others to read wrong books, resorting to
illogical conversations and shouting on others with a view to exhibit half baked raw
knowledge and irritating others; critisising Devas, Virtuous persons, Sadhus, officials in
authority ; becoming Nastiksor Anti-God; abandoning ones own Dharma and family
traditions under the influence of evil or anti social elements or the so called Society
reformers; union with women on auspicious days, menses period days, day time, Shraddh
or Ceremony days are blatant sins. Those who persist in maltreating cows, parents,
Brahmanas, unmarried virgins, teachers, Sadhus, friends, Sages, and well meaning blood
relations shall indeed go to hells for long duration. Those who spit, urinate and spoil in
other ways at cowsheds, Temples, Sacred Places, Homa Kundas or Fire Pits, water
bodies, Public Places, under the Trees and mountain tops; those who occupy others
areas; those who produce arrows, weapons, and such other war material; those who
harass servants, animals, elderly persons, the helpless, invalids, mentally unstable,
patients, the hungry / thirsty and guests and so on are all sinners who deserve
punishment.

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Description of Yamalok and acts of retribution to sinners

There is none who escapes the journey to Yamalok or Hell after death. Those who have
the least account of good deeds during their lives travel the longest distance of eightysix
thousand yojanas ( one yojana is eight miles) from the southern side of the hell whereas
those whose accounts are of mixed pattern are directed to shorter routes from the northern
side from earth. The longer route is full of untold miseries, defying description. It is full
of fearful thorns, slush, deep and wide gorges, endless jungles, coniferous forests, quick
sands, pitch darkness, biting cold and lashy hurricanes, sand storms or blizzards, severe
heat waves, sudden floods, attacking cruel animals or gigantic and venomous snakes and
non descript reptiles, Spirits and Goblins, severe hunger and thirst, complete loneliness or
unbearable sounds, multitudes of Linga Dehas or Limbless bodies being nose-driven by
ropes or iron shackles, whippings by Yamadutas, loosely knit body parts, some burnt on
iron grills and some fried in oil and such other violences.
At the end of the harrowing journey towards Hell, all the Linga Dehas are made to
remain at the Gates of Hell, by which time they are all dead exhausted and await the final
verdict of the karmas or deeds performed and the corresponding punishments awarded.
But when the departed Souls who did good karmas or deeds enter the Hell Gates, the
Yama Dharma Rajah Himself grants audience and orders them to enter higher segments
of Heavens or other Lokas as per the Punya or Good Deed account and after enjoying
the alloted time slots in concerned Lokas return to Hell again to receive the concerned
punishments. To those whose Sin accounts are higher than the Good Deed accounts, the
allotted punishments are enforced in various hell segments and after undergoing the
sentences are referred to enjoyments for the limited durations before taking up the next
births.While glimpses of Yamadharma Rajah are witnessed in such frightening forms
with fire and fumes from his nose, mouth, ears and eyes, the Yamadutas who too are not
only scary but execute violent and cruel acts which attract double retribution; if objected
or responded to, the degree and duration of the punishment is doubled or increased
further. The Yama- dutas are armed with trishuls, swords, thorny ropes of wood or metal,
and any other type of improvised torture-tools. As Chitragupta or the Accountant in
Chief, discloses the detailed daily activities of each Soul and awards the penalties, loud
announcements are followed by hecklings, insinuations and side-punishments by
Yamadutas sometimes commented by Yamadharma Raja Himself and some of these
annotations and amendments as remarked by the Raja come into force as instant
principles. As the sinners are subject to various punishments, they collapse, lose their
sense of being alive, then the Yamadutas revive them with enough dose of life to
continue the suffering of the punishment. Situated underneath the Earth are the Hells
named Ghor, Sughor, Atighor, Maha Ghor, Ghor Rupa, Talatal,Bhayanak, Kalarathri,
Bhayatkata, Chanda, Mahachanda, Chanda Kolahala, Prachanda Chanda, Padma,
Pamavati, Bhita, Bhima, Bhishma Nayika, Karala, Vikarala, Vajra, Trikona, Panchakona,
Sudhirgha, Akhilaktida, Sama Bhimavala, Ahoghra, Deeptamaya and so on.With a view
to eradicate the sins of the Linga Dehas, the Sinners are exposed to severe heat of Fires
and dry their Dhatus or tissues, shackle their feet and hands with heavy irons, let the
body parts be bitten by big size mosquitoes, wild animals, and giant birds and reptiles- all
this to cleanse their thoughts and make them remember their evil deeds.Their body parts

60

are dismembered one by one and roasted, fried, cut into pieces and mashed. In the course
of these acts of reprisal, the physical senses of torture are such that there would not be
death but full consciousness and awareness of the happenings. Those who make others
follow Fake Scriptures and mislead the public are referred to Dvijihva Narak and are
subjected to the gnaws of poisonous snakes; those strong and cruel persons who resort to
maltreat and put to violence their parents and Gurus are subjected to ruthless bitings of
giant size worms all over their face and body parts; those who wantonly spoil or destroy
the Siva Temples and their belongings are exposed to livid fires till the Pralaya time;
those who are overplayful in Sacred Waters and misuse them by making love and sex
also attract the fury of fires till Pralaya time; those who resort to extra marital life are
made to suffer the embraces, kisses and other acts with red hot iron rods; red hot metal
nails are thrust into the ears, noses and throats of those who torment the Saintly, Virtuous
and Devoted persons; a person who insults a woman with whichever limb of his body,
that limb is disfigured; if he makes advances let alone spoil her bodily, his eyes are
pierced with hot needles; he who steals the offerings made to Devas, Agni, Guru or
Brahmanas and eats, his tongue will be perforated with hot nails; those who disparage or
insinuate Devas, Mahatmas, Gurus, Devotees, Dharma, and Dharma Shastra would
attract the punishment of hot nails being grilled into the heart, tongue, nose, throat and so
on. Those who give wrong evidences and tell lies are despatched Rourarava Narak; those
who destroy baby embryos, steal gold and other possessions of others, kill Brahmanas,
cows, Preceptors, parents, sisters and brothers, daughters and sons, are consigned to
Taptakumbh Narak; whoever sells good and innocent ladies, avoid payment of interest
and Principal loans, sell hair and cheat devotees in the name of Gods are sent to
Taptaloha Naraka; those who defy or cheat Gurus, Parents, blood relatives or sell Idols
and Temple belongings, and sleep with wayward women are referred to Taptabala
Naraka; thieves, animal killers, breakers of decency norms, who criticise Devas and
misbehave with Sages, Brahmanas, elders, guests or resort to illicit trading or smuggling
are sent to Kurmibhaksha and are made to eat worms; those who eat in bad company
being Brahmanas, consume wrong food or drink and sell / hire wine and women are
forwarded to Rudhiroudhyava Naraka; those who destroy trees wantonly or crops out of
vengeance are referred to Asipatravana Naraka and those who make a living out of
womans money or lose balance beacause of youth and wealth are forwarded to Kupya
Naraka and so on.The above-mentioned punishments or details of Naraka Lokas are
merely illustrative to describe the kind of the penalties prescribed; the process of justice
being instant and unsparing. In fact, the larger the sin performed the more severe is the
punishment. Indeed there are possibilities of sincere repentance and Prayasistchaya or
atonement. Yani theshamaseshanam karmanyutoni teshu vai/ Praayasischamaseshenah
Haranrusmaranam Paramaparam/ Prayascinthaha tu yeshavam papam pumsaha
Prajapataye/KrithePapenruthapopi Sivsmaranam param (Whatever sins are committed,
Prayasistchyas or remedies are available; infact, Bhagavan Sivas name and japam are the
best remedy). Paschattapam (Remorse), Japam Repetition of Sivas names, Homam
(Fire oblations), Archana (Worship) are the greatest practices to ward off the sins
committed)

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Charity and its far reaching impact

In the context of the experiences of Yamaloka, charity plays a significant role in
mitigating the impact of punishments to a departed Soul. Sage Sanatkumara describe am
paramam daanamutthamam sada / Sarvesham Jeevapunjanam tarpanam Jeevanam
smrutam (Charity of Water is considered as the best as it provides full contentment and
life). This is why offering water outlets is considered as a satisfying act. Construction of
water bodies, digging up of wells and supply of water through various means is thus a
source of happiness to others and to self whose post-life experiences would become less
pungent. Those who facilitate the construction of ponds are doubly blessed giving instant
relief to human beings, animals and birds in the long run far beyond the lives of the
charity makers and attract considerable reduction of the burden of their sins. In fact, those
who are reponsible to perform this best charity of facilitating water supply in all seasons,
especially summer, would never fall down the levels lower than heavens after life. Next
to water is the charity of planting Trees which make available innumerable solaces to
mankind, Sages, animals, birds, Devas and Danavas and even to Evil Spirits whose
blessings are richly reaped by those responsible. Those who make available gardens with
trees bearing fruits, flowers, shade and various other facilities to public are blessed for
countless uses. Several other kinds of charity would certainly yield far reaching results
and the acts of kindness however big or small do not indeed go waste. For instance, a
person who donates an umbrella would help him to cross the hells without heat and
provide him shade; or a person donating footwear would cross parts of hell the protection
of feet. Charity of jewellery, cows, land, servants, chariot, foodgrains, beds, Vidya or
Knowledge, money, horses, elephants and so on have all highly beneficial value with
manifold returns.
Significance of Satya (Truth) and Tapasya (Meditation)
Sathyameva Parabrahma Satyameva Param Thapah/ Satyameva Paro Yagnah
Satyameva Para Srutham/ Satyam Sushteshu Jagatih Satyam cha Paramam Padam/
Satyanaiva Ghritha Pridhvi Satya Sarva Prathishthinam/(Truth is Parabrahma, Truth is
Great Meditation, Truth is Sacred Yagna, Truth is highly revered, Truth awakens the
slumberous or ignorant, Truth holds the entire Earth, and in this Truth only the entirety
exists.)
All aspects of Existence like Tapas (meditation), Yagnas or Sacrifices, Funds of Punya
or Essence of Virtuous Deeds, Devas, Rishis, Pitrus, Worship, water, Vidya or
Enlightenment are all steeply firmed up in Truth alone. Truth is Omkara representing
Sarasvati or Goddess of Studies and of Mantras who literally controls the intrepretation
of Learning. It is only due to the power of Truth that Vayu or the Wind God -and
indeed the very Prana or the Life Line- enables the World to exist. Sun God radiates
heat and light creating days and nights and the very measure of Time due to the Super
Energy which is called Truth. Similarly Fire God exists and so does Varun God or the
God of Rains; the Planets, Vedas that guide human beings to lead to meaningful
existence and fulfillment of lives. If the fruits of performing thousands of Asvamedha and
other Yagnas or Sacrifices are on one side of a Balance and a little bit of Truth or Virtue

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on the other, the Balance would instantly tilt in favour of Truth. Truth alone is the
paramount religion or Faith. It is the Parama Mantra par excellence. Innumerable Rishis
or various Religious Heads of Faiths, or the humanity as a whole, the Supernatural
Elements, Devas, and the entire Universe comprising the Moving and Non-moving
beings of Creation have to surrender to the Supremacy of Truth and Truth alone. This is
the basic reason why ones conscience pricks when Non-Truth is said or followed and it
is the Truth that triumphs in the long run or Satyameva Jayatey. The emphasis of Truth
by way of Speech, Thought, Deed and all other forms is a way of life.
Tapas (meditation or penance) is the most potent weapon; normal human beings tend
to confuse it as a small slot of prayer; indeed Tapas is a whole way of life. It is a
conscious act of physical control (Indriya Nigraha) and mental concentration. It is a
higher form of Yoga- a resultant of sacrifice and Jnana or awareness. It yields
satisfaction, sense of fulfillment, fame and steps forward to salvation.Tapohi paramam
proktam Tapasa Vidhyate phalam/ Taporathahi nithya modat saha Daivataihi/ Tapasa
prapte yashah Tapasa prapyate Kamasthapah Sarvardha sadhanam/ Tapasa
mokshamapnothi Tapasa Vidhathe mahat /Jnana Vigyana sampathhihi sowbhagyam
rupamevacha/ Nana vidhani vastuni tapasa labhate narah/ (Tapas or deep meditation
yields several good results.Devas feel happy with those performing Tapas. Tapas yields
fame, fulfillment of desires, knowledge, wisdom, prosperity, auspiciousness, attractive
physical form and all kinds of things). Even Brahma Hatya or killing of Brahmanas,
incest, and such other unpardonable evils would be washed off by the power of Tapas.
Nobody including Tri Murthis are free from the penance as they are able to carry on their
duties like creation by Brahma, Preservation by Lord Vishnu and Destruction by Rudra,
let alone Nava Grahas ( Nine Planets), Dik Palakas or The Chiefs of the Eight Directions
and Pancha Bhutas or Five Elements.
Attainment of Siva Loka and Superiority of Human Life
It is an almost impossible venture to succeed in obtaining even a glimpse of Bhagavan
Siva. The highest classes of Sages have to strain most considerably even to succeed
reaching Devalokas, let alone the Brahma Loka, Vishnu Loka and least of all the Siva
Loka. While Tapas is the only means to achieve the Superior Lokas, Devas or high
category Sanyasins or pure Brahmacharis might perhaps follow the Satvik Guna or
Undiluted Virtue. Normally Devas and humans resort to Rajasika Guna or passion or
devotion desirous invariably of fulfillment of material desires, or for Yoga and
knowledge. Tamasika Guna is out of ignorance, revenge or personal aggrandisement
normally resorted by Danavas or human beings with the qualities of Danavas. When it is
stated that Danavas receive boons from Brahma or Siva, it is an illusion and the so called
boons granted to the recipients who possess only evil motivations are guises to temporary
gains and ultimate destruction to the receivers thus serving as warnings to posterity.
Indeed, Satvika type of worship comprises virtuous ways of thinking, external and
internal cleanliness, puja, japa, homa, shaucha, ahimsa or non violence, tapas, vrata,
upavasa charya or fasting, mouna or observance of silence, indriya nirodha or control
of physical parts, buddhi (mental balance), satya or truth, vidya ( knowledge or

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enlightenment), akrodha (calmness), dana or charity, shanta or peacefulness, daya bhava

or sympathy, performing or involvement in public utility jobs like construction of water
bodies, gardens, temples and schools and hospitals, yagnas, tirtha yathras or pilgrimages,
ashram nivas or modest living, observance of daily dhyanas or meditation, yoga practice
by way of Pranayama or through air control of Rechaka, Puraka and Kumbhaka,
Pratyahara, attainment of eight siddhas viz. Anima, Mahima, Laghima, Garima, Prapti,
Prakasyam, Isitham and Vasitam; Sadhana or Endeavours of three types of Avasthas
viz. Kashtavastha, Mritavastha and Haritha Avastha; avoidance of Rajaiswarya Vibhutis
viz. Nari ( Woman), Shayya ( comfortable bed), Pana (drink), Vastra (dresses), Dhoopa
(scented air), Lepam ( sandal paste), and tamboola bhakshanam ( chewing betel leaves
and nuts); and bhoga swarupas ( forms of luxury) viz. gold and jewellery, residence,
cows, singing, music, dance, musical instruments like veena, mridanga and other
percussions; elephants and horses, chariots, umbrellas, hand fans and so on. Such is the
ideal way of life which a human being needs to practise with utmost care to qualify for
reaching the path to Sivaloka. Indeed this eneavour is not out of the realm of possibility
to a human being, as the birth of a human is an excellent opportunity that could be
utilised optimally. Manushamcha samasadya Swarga Moksha Prasadhanam / Na
charatyamanah shreyah sa mrutaha sochatey chiram (Those who are unable to avail the
human body which is difficult to secure and is a good prospect to obtain Swarga
(Heaven) and Moksha (Salvation) would regret for long and cry at the missed
opportunity). Samprapya dharmato Vyasa tat yatnadanupalayet/ Dharma mulam hi
manushyam labdhava Sarvardha Sadhakam/ yadi labhya yatnah samuulam rakshotsvya
tatha manushopi cha viprasyam yah prapya khalusadhanam (There cannot be a bigger
stupidity, if a human being does not practise virtue which is the root of what all one could
achieve, especially if he were born as a Brahmana, a most coveted birth that one could
opt for). It is said that among the Sapta Dwipas or Seven Great Islands in the entire Earth,
Bharat Desa is supposed to the best Karma bhumi or the Country of Virtuous Action.
Having been born into such an enviable Country, if one fails to make be the best, then he
is as good as lost his Soul!
Supremacy of Kriya Yoga coupled with Jnana and Bhakti YogasConstruction of Bhagavati Temple
Maharshi Veda Vyas requested Sanat Kumara about the efficacy of the three kinds of
Yogas while referring to an approach to Devi Bhagavati. Jnana Yoga (Enlightentment) is
the togetherness of human mind and Soul, while external nearness of the Self and Devi as
two Entities is denoted as Kriya Yoga (Action). Bhakti Yoga (Devotion) is the identity of
the Self and Devi. These three Yogas put together constitute kriyabhog. Karma (action)
leads to Bhakti (devotion) and Bhakti generates Jnana (enlightentment). Basically Yoga
is the principal factor to lead to Mukti (Salvation). Kriya Yoga is a powerful Sadhana or
the medium. A firm realisaton that Prakritik Maya or Natures Illusion and Brahma Maya
or the Supreme Illusion are just the same and that awareness would help break worldly
ties of human beings. This was the preface described by Sanat Kumara to Veda Vyasa to
illustrate the culmination of a unique venture in constructing a Bhagavati Temple. He
affirmed that the success of a Sacred Project like the Temple construction is a climactic
effort of an illustrious human being who had already led a spiritual life of significance.

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Ahanyayin yogena yajatho yanmahaphalam /Prapnothi tat phalam debya yah kaarayati
mandiram /Sahasra kulamagami vyaktreetam cha sahasrakam / sa tarayati Dharmaatma
Sri Mathru dham kaarayan (Whatever benefit of Virtue had been acquired by performing
daily Yagnas had facilitated the construction of Sri Mathru Dham or Bhagavathi Temple.
The Virtuous person responsible for the construction not only endows with Salvation to
himself but also to thousand future generations too). The number of bricks used in the
construction of a Temple would be multiplied by thousand and thus so many years would
total the stay of the illustrious person in the Manidwipa. The person responsible for the
making and pratishtha or setting up the Holy idol is fearless in the three worlds. If other
Idols like the other Devis, viz. Lalitha, Lakshmi and Sarasvathi as also Ganesh,
Subrahmanya and so on are also installed at the beginning or subsequently in the Temple,
the Punya attained is endless and everlasting. Those who ensure daily upkeep, worship,
Abhishek with pure water, milk, honey and coconut water etc. and Arthi, Dhup, and
other such Sixteen Sevas (Shodasopacharas) are blessed too. Special Pujas be
performed on Krishna Paksha Ashtami, Navami and Amavasya to Devi Parvathi along
with recitations of Devi Sukta, Sri Sukta, as also Navavarana Pujas and Moola Mantra
Pathana, Abhishekas, offerings of Vishnukrantha Flowers, Tulsi and Lotus. Similarly,
Special Vrathas be organised on Chaitra Sukla Tritheeya to Devi Bhavani along with
Dolotsavasalong with Bhagavan Siva. During Vasanta Sukla Paksha, and Akshaya
Thritheeya, Special Vratas be executed in the name of Jagadamba. On Jyeshtha Sukla
Thriteeya, a Special Vratha is carried out in the name of Maheswari; during the same
month on Ashta Sukla Thriteeya a circumbabulation of the Temple and surroundings be
organised along with Bhagavan Siva as a celebration of Radhotsava (Chariot festival)
along with Veda Pathana (recital of Vedas) and accompaniment of music by Vadyasor
musical instruments. Again on Sravana and Bhadrapada Sukla Tritheeyas be celebrated
with Special Worships. The climactic celebrations through out the duration of
Navarathrasin the first half of Shukla Paksha of Aswiyuja month are expected to be an
annual festival looked forward to by devotees and Organisers alike. During the
Navarathras or the Nine Days and Nights, magnificent carnivals ought to be fittingly
organised by dedicated devotees with day long pujas upto the small hours of each night
with hourly pujas, Homas, Ahishekas, congregations of devotees, music-dance programs,
Puranas, Bhajans, Nagara Samkeerthansor Group Singings, dramas on Subject-specific
religious aspects, Samaradhanas or group eatings and so on. Also monthwise Krishna
Thritheeyas of Margasirha, Pausha, and Magha months are performed by male devotees,
especially the Mangala Devi Vratha. Besides the above details, Devi Pujas should be
performed on all the scheduled days of significance as per Hindu Calendar such as
Ganesh Chathurdhis, Depavali on Aswiyuja Amavaysa and the preceeding Narakasura
Chathurdhi and so on. Of course, every Ekadasi, Monday aupicious for Bhagavan Siva,
Tuesday for Durga and Skanda, Wednesday and Saturday for Vishnu, Friday for Lakshmi
and Sunday for Ganesha / Sun God and Thursday for Dattatreya, are all auspicious days
in any Temple. Those who manage the temple affairs, including finances, and the
devotees who offer services to the Devi Bhagavati round the year are all blessed by
Bhagavati Devi and Bhagavan Siva appropriately.
At the end of Uma Samhita, the narrations of Siva Purana in the Samhita including the
details of Maha Pathakas, Naraka Loka experiences; the importance and the need for

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Satya, Tapasya, Charity as also the Supremacy of Kriya Yoga, Jnana Yoga and Bhakti
Yoga and finally the benefits of Kriya Yogis constuction of a Temple are described. The
final goal of Life is thus to elevate oneself upward towards Siva Gyan!
Significance of Siva Purana
The virtue in reading Vedas in Gurukulas or under the tutorship of a Preceptor by way of
eating Kanda Moola Phalas or uncooked vegetables, roots or raw fruits is not even half
of the positive benefit attained by reading or listening to Puranas, especially Siva Purana.
The knowledge of Puranas is stated to be as significant as the heat and light of Sun God
or the coolness and tranquility of Moon God. Puranas open up wide windows and doors
to the Spiritual World, destroy ignorance, illuminate vistas of knowledge and enlighten
about the happenings of the Past, guide about the Present times dos and donts and
warn or caution about the customary pitfalls and traps that ought be avoided in future..
That is why Purana Sravana, or Pathana or Manana is an integral part of
enlightening of human psyche. Whether it is about the gains of illustrious persons in the
past, the vision of Rishis, the ways of the virtuous and of the evil forces, the sacrifices of
the committed persons, the vindication of Truth finally, the bench mark attainers among
the Sages and Devotees and the exemplary actions of Avataras (Incarnations) prove again
and again that The Super Power Himself or Herself does exist. The methodology of
devotion to Almighty, the secrets of the Universe, Creation, Preservation, Destruction,
Planets, Concepts of Time, Tatvas, and so on are all included in the Puranas. In special
reference to Siva Purana, all these aforementioned aspects plus several special features of
Siva Gyan ranging from Abhishekas to Archanas, Worship to Sayujya, Parthiva Lingas
to Dwadasa Jyotirlingas, Austerities to Attainments, Aspects of this world one lives in
and of those other worlds, about virtues and evils, and the Final Truth of Existence. Yat
punyam Sarvadaaneshu Sarva Yajgneshu va Muney /Shambhoh Purana Shravanaath
phalam nischaya bhavet/ Viseshatah kalaou Vyasa Purana Sravanarthey / Paro dharma
na pumsam hi mukthidhyana para smrita /Purana Shravana samkeerthanam tadha
kalpadruma phalam ramyam manushyaanaam na samsayaha (The fruits of various
charities and performance of Yagnas are as good as hearing Siva Purana for sure. In
Kalyug especially, Purana Shravana is considered as a better alternative than even charity
or other routes). Being aware that human beings anyway tend to ignore the traditional
ways of worship like yagnas and so on, Bhagavan Siva has prescribed that listening to
Siva Purana and about Siva Leelas would be as good a route to achieve the Four
Purushardhas viz. Dharma (Virtue), Ardha (Prosperity), Kama (Fulfilment of Worldly
Desires) and Moksha (Salvation).
Omkara Jigjnasha (Knowledge) -Its comprehension and Practice
In the penultinate Kailasa Samhita of Siva Purana, Devi Parvathi enquired of Bhagavan
Siva Himself about the implication of Pranava or Omkara. Bhagavan emphasised that
Pranava Mantra was as good as realisation of Siva Himself. Pranava is the seed that
generates the huge Vata Vriksham or the peepal tree of Siva Gyan. It is that Pranava
which is the essence of Vedas. Panchakshari is the mix of three words A-U-M plus the
half word of Bindu and the sound emphasising the word M. The word A stands for

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nivrutthi kala or of removal nature; U stands for Indhan kala or of burning up

characteristic and M for Kaal Kala or destroying element; thus the words signify Satva,
Rajas and Tamas natures and together the words are anti- gunas or Nirguna. Similarly the
words signify anti-Vikaras and hence Nirvikara or reactionless. Alternatively, A
represents the Universe; the two letters A and U signify Siva and Sakti and M
signifies Jnana or knowledge / Illumination. The Panchakshari Mantra AUM thus
means the Pranava and the Primary Sound that exists before Creation and after Pralaya
which is Nadarupa or of the Form of Sound and of Rupa the Supreme Luminosity. In
other words, the Trimatras of A kar, Ukar and M kar followed by half matra bindu is
of the nada (sound) swarup. Among these words, A kar has a Maha beej possessing
Rajo guna or Brahma the Creator; U kar is of Satvik origin represented by Prakriti Yoni
and governed by Vishnu the sustainer and M kar or male seed responsible for
destruction and possesses Tamo-guna representing Siva. Also bindu nada swarup is
Mahadeva Himself, as He has the feature of thirobhava or reversal of Srishti or Laya/
Pralaya. Interpreted in another way, the Panchakshari denoting Parabrahma or the
Supreme Energy comprises: A kar or Maha Deva possessing eight Kalas or skills;
Ukar is Vamadeva possessing thirteen Kalas like Prathishtha and Nivritti, M kar
is Aghora possessing eight Kalas like Vidya; Bindu is Purushpossessing four Kalas
and Naad is Isaana possessing five Kalaslike Shanti Kala. Understood from yet
another view point, Pranava or OM is an amalgam or Prapanch -karmakata/
universalisation of Six Padardhas or Materials Viz.Mantra, Yantra, Devatha, Loka,
Guru, and Sishya. Mantra or Sacred Hymn leads to Yantra or Celestial Engineering,
which aims at Devas or Gods, who in turn directs one to the Universe; the Loka
pinpoints to the need of a Guru or Preceptor and finally to a Sishya or Vidyarthi/
Student. Pranava thus seeks one to universalise from the Origin to the End-User, which
finally is a human body. Hence, Omityadi Sarvamithi Sarva Brahmeti or Omkara is
everything and is Brahma or the Supreme. Bhagavan thus sums up to Devi Bhagavathi
that the Vachaka (who seeks to preach) and the Vachakam or the lesson is just the
same. Pranava seeks to move up in the human body - from Muladharato Manipura to
Hridaya to Visuddhi chakra to Ajna Chakra to Shanti Kala; Bhagavan Siva is far beyond
Shanti Kala and is Prarathpara.
Practice of Pranava Vratha is indeed an uphill task. The devotee has to possess a high
degree of Vairagya or Other-Worldliness for one thing and another is to secure a
towering Guru or Preceptor who is a Tapasvi, Jitendriya or controller of human desires, a
well read Brahmana and a person who has performed Siva Vrathas already and is Sivalike himself. The devotee has to be secluded on a seashore, or a mountain top or an inside
of a cave and practise Payovratha( only consume water) for twelve days and on a Sukla
Panchami or Ekadasi get ready early in the morning with clean bath and heart-(antar
bahya suddhi). He has to shave his head, beard, and moustache and discard Sacred
Thread or yajnopaveeth and assume complete life of a Sanyasi. His Guru then blesses
him with Pranava Mantras Upadesa formally, explains its annotation / analysis, the daily
rituals / Upasana and gradually trains/ equips him in the the methodology of meditation
and regulated life of a fulfledged Sanyasi or he who practises the Yoga of Sat plus Nyasa
or the life of an ascetic in search of Truth that is Siva. The Pranava Vratha is a life long
exercise till the devotee catches up with the route to Moksha.

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Puja Vidhhanam or the Course of Worship to Bhagavan Siva

Bhagavan Siva explained in great detail to Devi Parvathi the process of worship aimed to
Him. First construct a Chaturasra Mandala or a square form of Worship Place and an
Eight-petal Lotus inscribed therein with eight designated deities seated with appropriate
hymns in the eight directions. The entire process of Mandala constuction and decoration
with appropriate colour schemes and placement of deities is quite elaborate and
comprehensive. Before seated, the devotee should ensure that the required Puja materials
are in place, take the blessing of his Guru, resolve that the Puja be a success, recite the
Pranava Mantra and seek the permission of Lord Ganesha that there there should not be
any hindrance whatsoever during the course of the Puja. The devotee should seek the
blessings of Brahmanas, think of the blessings of Great Sages, recite the Soura Mantra
invoking Suryadeva, Gayatri and initiate the Puja with the six lettered Bija Mantras like
Hram, Hreem, Hruum etc. and after sprinlking water in the Agneya direction where Agni
is situated in the respective Lotus part of the diagram, initiate Archana (Puja) to
Kalagni, Rudra, Adhara Shakti, Anantha Prithvi, Ratnadwip, Sankalpa Vriksha, and
Rathna Peeth, Dharma, Gyan, Vairagya and Ishwarya. Thereafter, set up Bhagavan Sivas
idol on a throne. Then, the devotee should break Prana Vayu or Life Breath at
Muladhara, with the help of pingala nadi and raise up Adhara Sakti to have a glimpse
of Bhagavan and Bhagavati and worship with flowers and Manthra Pushpas or Hymns
of Praise. One should experience the sacred feeling of the appearance with Bhagavan
wearing Rudraksha malas, Pasha (noose), Khatvanga (club)), Ankusha (Goad), and
Kamala. He possesses four faces and twelve eyes, with Ganga on His matted hairs, Moon
on His head, blue throat, ashed body and hissing snakes all around. That is the time when
the devotee recites Hram Hreem Sah Om invoking Surya Deva and Bhagavan and Devi
later on with appropriate mudras and Anga Nyasas with the continuous recital of Mula
Mantra: Hraam Hrem Hruum. After offering the traditional Pancha Upacharas or the
Five Services viz. Gandha (Sandal Paste), Pushpa (Flowers), Dhoop (Incense), Dipa
(Lights), and Naivedya (Offering of Food), there should be Sankalpas (Resolution),
performance of three pujas to the Principal Deities and Yagnas in favour of
Shadangas.(Siksha or Phonetics, Vyakaranam or Grammar, Jyotisham or Astrology,
Chandas or Prosody, Nirutam or Etymology, Kalpam or a mode of Sacrifice) as well as
Lotus. In the Second Avarana, archanas are executed in favour of Agni, Eswara and
Vayu as also the Twelve Adityas like Aditya, Bhanu, Ravi, Bhaskar; in the Third
Avarana, worship is carried out to Navagrahas and Twelve Rasis, viz. Mesha,
Vrishabha, Mithuna, Karkataka, Simha, Kanya, Thula, Vrischika, Dhanus, Makara,
Kumbha, and Meena. Also, yagnas be perfomed in favour of Oceans, Ganga, Rishis,
Gandharvas, Pannagas, Apsaras and so on. The Fourth Avarana is taken up by offering
water filled in a copper vessel to Suryadeva along with flowers, sandal paste, akshatas
or rice grains with turmeric powder, Kumkum and so on. After tendering Arghya as
above, appropriate Mantras be recited in praise of the Principal Deities of Siva and
Parvati as also other Deities of Rudra, Brahma, Vishnu, Ganesha, Skanda, Nandi and
others with extreme piety, sincerity and devotion, the devotee might round up the
Worship with Pranava Mantras, Shanti Mantras, Astraya Phut etc.as also execute the rest
of the Shodasopacharas and finally prostrate before the Preceptor for his blessings. At

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the end of the worship, the offerings to Bhagavan Siva and Devi like the Panchamritas,
Fruits, Naivedya or food material are distributed to the devotees present.
Description of Bhagavan Siva
Bhagavan Anantha Deva is snow-white in physique and is as huge as a lion touching the
sky possessing four feet of Dharma (Virtue), Gyan (Knowledge), Viragya (devoid of
Worldly desires) and Iswarya (prosperity). He is Pancha mukha (five faced), Dasa Bhuja
(Ten-handed), Trinetra (three eyed) on each face, of tranquil visage, extremely luminous
like several Sun Gods, with crooked eyebrows, red blood eyes, fearful beard and jumbled
moustache. He has an enduring Mudra (posture) with quivering lips as though he has a
devastating temper to destroy yet mildly-smiled, wearing half Moon, carrying a trident,
parasu ( axe), Vajra weapon, and resembling Agni golas or strings of innumerable fire
balls. He is Isana Deva sporting an ageless and glittering Crown of the charming face of
a Maha Purusha, a sturdy heart of Aghora, feet like those of Sadyojata and Guhyam of
a Vamadeva. Easana is a Kalaprapurna with thirty eight Kalas or features. He is
Pancha Brahmamaya (Full of Five Brahmas), Omkaramaya (Surfeit with Pranava), and
Hamsa nyasa maya (Full of Swan like stylish walk). He is Panchakshara (Five-lettered
in Sanskrit viz. Namah Sivaya; He is also Six-lettered viz. Om Namah Sivaya; and
Shadanga Yukta or with Six-limbs. Bhagavan Siva affirms that He is an ArdhaNaareeswara (Half Woman- Half Man). His left side of the body is Manonmayi Gauri.
She is Dhyana Swarup ( a personality in meditative feature) with an open and lustrously
blossomed lotus-like smile and broad and shining eyes, full Moon-like visage,
ornamented with half-Moon on Her head, smeared with red-tilak on forehead, wearing
unusually pretty and fragrant flowers and a golden lotus on Her right hand for fun as an
embodiment of Sadgunas. It is in such perfect company of Gauri Devi that a devotee
faces Maha Deva, sprinkling Sankha (conchshell)-filled holy water on them reciting
Omkara Mantras. The devotee offers to them Padyaor water for washing feet reciting
Bhavey bhavey nathibhavey manthra; as Achamanam or taking a bit of water saying
Vama devaya namah; addressing Bhagavan and Devi with Vastras saying Jyoshthaya
namah; again Achamanam saying Rudraya namah; Kalaya namah with Sugandham;
Vikaranaya namah with Akshatas; Bala Vikaranaya namah offering flowers and
Balayanamah with Dhup or fragrant incense; Bala Pramadhanaya namah with
Deepa Arthi and Sashtanga Namaskara to Bhagavan and Devi Couple along with
Bindunada Pranava Mantras. Thereafter, Bhagavan Siva told Devi Bhagavati:
Sivo Mahaswarachiva Rudro Vishnuh Pithamaha / Sansara Vaidyah Sarvajnah
Paramatmeti Mukhyataha /Namashtaka midam nitya Sivasya Prati padakam/
[Siva, Maheswara, Rudra, Vishnu, Pithamaha or Grand father, Physician of the Universe,
Sarvajna or the All- Knowing, Paramatma are the major eight names in vogue] Of the
above Eight Names, there is an angle of Upadhis or basis among the first Five Names
from Siva to Pitamaha; the Five Upadhis are Sthulopadhi ( The Gross Body),
Karmopadhi ( The Causal Body), Sukshmopathi ( The Subtle Body), Akasa ( The
Divine Thought or Consciousness) and Atma ( The Inner Soul). There may thus be a
number of names, but basically, there is only one name which has no Upadhis ie.
Nirupadhi; no Gunas ie. Nirguna and no Vikaras ie. Nirvikara: He is Siva only! The next
name is of Maheswara Tatva Gyan of twenty three Tatvas thas accompanied by the

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Maya Tatva or Prakrithi posseessing the twenty fourth Tatva and in all the twenty fifth
Tatva of Purusha is Maheswara. The next name of Bhagavan is Rudra who is the root
cause of Sorrows and is also the effective remover of Sorrows too.But Vishnu being the
all- pervasive Shakti spreads and perpetuates Maya by the interaction of Tatvasand
hence Vishnu is the cause and effect of Tatvas of Siva. Pitamaha is another primary
name of Siva who is responsible for Srishti and is the Eldest of the World or the Great
Guiding Force of Humanity. Vaidya or the Physician of not only the physical ailments all
the residents of the Universe but more importantly is the most efficient curer of the
Other-wordly feelings, actions and aspirations by endowing with right guidance of Tatvas
and Siva Gyan to lead onto the path of self realisation. Sarvajna is He who is not only
aware of the interactions of Maya and Realism but is fully equipped with the awareness
and methodology of attainment. From the stage of Sarvajna who has the knowledge of
Gunas, the devotee has to qualify to realise the Self (Atma) and to Siva Himself as that
Super Power is Paramatma, Pranavatma, Avinashi and Mahadeva.
Maha Vakyas (Illustrious Statements) about Siva Gyan
Prajnam Brahma: Brahma is pure consciousness; 2) Aham Brahmasmi: I am Brahma; 3)
Tatvamasi: That Tathvam is Me; 4) Ayamatma Brahma: This Atma is Brahma; 5) Ishavasyamidam Sarvam: This entire Universe is in Eswara; 6) Praanosmi: I am Prana or Life
7) Prajnatma: Atma is Gyan or Knowledge; 8) Yevaha Thadmutra Yadmutra tha dinvah:
Whatever is there, it is here and that which is here is there too; 9)Anyadeva
thadvithadayo Aviditha dapi: That is beyond the Known and Unknown;10) Easha tha
Antaratma antaryamrita: That Atma of yours is itself Antharyami and Amrita or inner
consciousness and ever lasting; 11) Sa yaschayam Purusho yaschamavaditye sa ekah :
Whatever exists in this person and Sun God is the same; 12) Ahamasmi Parabrahma
param paratparam : I am Parabrahma myself; 13) Veda Sastra Guruthvath svapananda
lakshanam: I am as happy as Guru who knows Vedas and Sastras; 14) Sarva
bhutashitham Brahmat dehaha na samasyaha : Brahma who exists in all the beings,
undoubtedly; 15) Tatvasya Pranohamasmi : I am the life of Tatvas and the Earth;16)
Apam cha Praanohamasmi: I am the Life and water; 17) Vayoscha Pranohamasmi
Akshasya Pranohamasmi: I am the Life of Wind and Sky 18) Trigunasya Pranohamasmi:
I am the Life of Three Gunas 19) Sarvoha Sarvatmakoh Samsaro Yadbhut uccha
bhavyam yadvarthamanam Sarvatmika tvad vithiyoham: I am the Universal Soul as also
second to none in the past, present and future; 20) Sarvam khilvada Brahma: This is all
Brahma Himself; 21) Sarvoha Vimuktoham : I am everything and free; 22) yo
sowseeham hamsaha so hamasmi : I am present as a Swan.
Origin of Vedas, Time, Basic Duties and Pasupati Vrata
In the Final Volume of Siva Purana, entitled Vayaviya Samhita, the congregation of
Sages headed by Suta Muni gave a broad description of the above Titled and related
Topics as explained to Veda Vyas by Vayu Deva Himself. Even before the narration, the
Holy spot of Naimisaranya or the Nimisa Forest where the congregation was taking
place was acknowledged as the most befitting venue for a specific reason. He stated that
at the end of the previous Dwapara Yuga and at the very beginning of the now on-going

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Kali Yuga, Lord Brahma released Manonmaya Chakra to ascertain the impact of the
impending Time ahead. The Chakra (disc) would travel around and the entire area
traversed by it would be submerged in Maya. Finally, wherever the Chakra would break
should be considered as a safe zone covering a large segment of land of the prescribed
circumference or the nemi of that zone, fit for Yagnas which were performed for ten
thousand years and Lord Brahma too carried on the creation process there itself. Such
was the significance of Naimisharanya. [This forest is some 80 km away from Lucknow
in Uttar Pradash and there are vestiges here till date of the past 5000 years at the crossing
of the two yugas. There is a Chakra-Teertha (waterbody) which is stated to be fathomless
as the British failed to disprove the mythology and tried to send down a cable of 1000
meters (3300 feet of depth and gave up; it was in this Sarovar that thousands of Sages
took their bath before performing Yagnas. There is a Vyasa Gaddi (Seat) under a
Banyan Tree where Sage Vyasa executed the division of Vedas and the writing of
Puranas; a huge Hanuman idol of 18 feet- believed to be self-manifested, when Hunuman
rescued Rama and Lakshmana hidden by Ravana in Patala Loka up into Chakra Tirtha;
and a Pandava Temple. Till date, groups of Bramhanas arrive at Naimisharanya
periodically to perform Yagnas and Homas from all over India. Also there is a Siva
Temple with His eyes looking east in the morning and west in the evenings. The
presiding Deity Lalita Devi has a Temple around Chakra Tirtha, where thousands take
bath every Full Moon Monday and pray to Her for instant fulfillment of desires.]
There are Eighteen Vidyas or Disciplines of Learning / Knowledge comprising Four
Vedas of Rig, Yajur, Sama and Atharvana; Six Vedangas, Meemamsa, Nyaya, Puranas,
Ayurveda, Dhanurveda, Gandharva Veda and Artha Sastra. Bhagavan Siva created all the
Vidyas.Brahma recited the Vedas, Scriptures, and Puranas; Vishnu preserved them all
and since these are difficult to assimilate, created Veda Vyasa to pass on the Learnings to
posterity in a lesser difficult manner. In fact the Essence of Vedas is conveyed in some
four lakh Slokas (Stanzas) among Eighteen Puranas.
Besides Vidyas, Bhagavan also presented the Concept of Time to the World and enabled
calulations of years, Ayanas ( half years) as per the movement of Sun viz. Uttarayana of
Upward movement of Sun and Dakshinayana or downward movement, months,
fortnights ( Sukla and Krishna Pakshas), weeks, days and nights, hours, thirty muhurthas
in a day and night, thirty kalas in a muhurtha, fifteen nimeshas in a kala and so on. Also
one year to Devas is three hundred and sixty years to human beings. Satya Yuga is 4000
Deva or Divine years, Threta Yuga is 3000 Deva years, DwaparaYuga is 2000 Deva
Years and Kali Yuga has one thousand Deva years. Four Yugas make a Kalpa during
which there are fourteen Manvantaras. One Brahma day is one kalpa; Brahmas age is for
thousand kalpas; Vishnus age is one hundred Brahma Years; Rudras age is one hundred
Vishnu years; Sivas age is one hundred Rudra years and Sada Sivas age is infinite! It is
stated that Siva starts a day by Creation and by the end of the night terminates the
Universe in annihilation!
Having regard to the Varanshrama or the Four Caste System of Brahmanas, Vysyas,
Kshtriyas and Sudras, Veda Vyasa in his various Discussions with the Sages, pinpointed
the Basic duties of Brahmanas even more than rituals. The basic duties include: Trikala

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Sandhyas (Gayatri thrice each day), Havan (Offerings to the Sacred Fire), worship to
Sivalingas and Charity. Also, he should observe every Being in Siva; Compassion,
Virtue, Tripti (contentment), Belief in God; Ahimsa (non violence), Bhakti (Devotion),
Veda Pathanam (Reading Vedas), Practice of Yoga, Teaching of Vedas and Scriptures,
celibacy, penance, wearing Sacred Thread and tuft; abstitence of night meals, continuous
chantings of Omkara, Gayatri and Siva Mantras and finally, Siva worship based so much
with Faith rather than mere Rituals. The Siva Mantra viz. Om Namah Sivaya should be
chanted a crore times ideally through out the night or fifty lakh times or atleast ten lakh
times. One tenth of the chantings of the Siva Mantra must be executed by way of
Havan; one tenth of the Havan must be performed by way of Tarpan; one tenth of the
Tarpan must be done by way of Marjanam or cleansing or purifying; one tenth of
Marjanam should be the number of Brahmanas to be engaged for Bhojan or meals and
dakshinaor monetary offerings.
The next explanation by Veda Vyasa related toMantrik Nyas or Ascetic Nyas viz.
Sthithi Nyas (Posture), Utpatti (origin) and Laya (synthesis). Esablishing and chanting
cryptic mantras (alphabets) from thumb to little finger is Stithi nyasa; the cpyptic mantra
from right thumb to left thumb is Utpatti Nyasa and from left thumb to right thub is Laya
Nyasa. House holderes should perform the Stithi Nyas, the Celebates to prefer Utpatti
Nyas, and those who have relinquished the world or the Vanaprashasyas should take to
the Laya Nyasa.
Pasupathi Vratha is recommended by Vayudeva to attain worldly pleasures as
alsoMukti.The Vratha comprises of Kriya, Tapa, Dhyana, Gyana and Yoga. This is to
be performed on Chaitra Pournami, but two days before it, the Devotee should seek the
blessings of a Guru, wear coloured clothes, be seated on kusa grass, take a vow of with a
kusa on hand to perform the entire Vratha as per prescribed, observe fast on all the three
days, execute day long havans, and Dhyana and worship to Siva Linga. After observing
the same procedure of the preceding two days, the devotee must on the final day of the
Vrata wear deer skin, smear ash of the havans of the preceding two days, practise
Ashtanga Yoga under the directives of Guru, perform Avarana Puja, and
Shodasopacharasor the sixteen kinds of services to the Siva Linga and Siva idol..This
Vratha may be performed once in a life time or every year or for twelve years or even as
long as one lives. Depending on the honesty and intensity of the Performer, Pasupathi
Vrata is stated to bless the devotee to attain Siva Loka.
Auspicious days for performing Siva worship are the eighth or fourteenth day of each
fortnight; on the Solictice day or Samkranthi when Sun is positioned north of Equator;
on Solar and Lunar Eclipse days; on the days when Pushya nakshatra falls in Pushya
month; or Magha nakshatra falls in Magha month; Uttaraphalguna falls on Pournami of
Phaluna month; Chaitra Pournami in Chaitra month; Visakha nakshatra falling on
Pournami of Visakha Month; Moola in Jyeshtha month; Uttarashadha in Ashadha month;
Shravana star in Shravana Month; Uttarabhadra in Bhadra month; Pournami in Asvayuja
month; Kartika Pournami during Kartika Month; and on the day when Ardra nakshatra
falls in Margaseersha month.

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Siva Purana Phalasruti

While concluding Siva Purana, Veda Vyasa affirmed that whoever reads or hears Siva
Purana would indeed reap ample fruits. Whether it is an athiest or indolent, a stupid or
egoistic, a non devotee or careless, any person reading or hearing even portions of the
Purana rather casually would raise a flag of virtue.A non devotee would secure devotion
and a devotee would obtain devotion in abundance. If a person reads or hears just once,
the sins of long standing nature get burnt off instantly. On reading twice, the person
becomes a staunch follower of Bhagavan Siva and reading thrice shall indeed reach the
person to the abode of Siva. Achhiva Puranam hi Sivasyatipriyam param /Bhukti mukti
pradam Brahmasammitham Bhakti varadhanam/

OM NAMASSIVAYA
Nityam Swodara Poshanaya Sakalaanuddishya vitthaasaya /vyartham paryatanam
karomi bhavatassevaam na jane Vibho / majjanmanthara punyapaaka balathastvam
Sarva! Sarvaanthara stishthasyeva hi thena vaa Pasupathey! tey rakshaneeyosmyaham
(Sivanandalahari Stanza 57 by Adi Shankara)
[I have contacted many and travelled a lot without aim just for filling my stomach and
desirous of becoming prosperous. Little did I realise the significance of service to you,
Oh Lord of all beings and all-pervasive! You do wipe away the sins of your devotees.
May be, some good was done in my past birth that I feel confident as you are within all
the beings and thus consider me too to be saved!

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