Essence
Of
Dharma
Sindhu
KAMYAA NAIMITTIKA KARMAAS (Part -1)
Vaapi Kupaadyutsarga ( Digging of Wells and Small Water Bodies) : Either to a village or in a house, the digging of wells or small water bodies either in the middle or Southern Direction or the Sub Directions of Agneya-Nirruti-Vayavyas would not yield beneficient results; all other directions are auspicious. Such diggings of Vaapi-Kupa-Tatakaas are best done in Uttaraayana Maagha upto Six months ahead in Shukla Pakshas. Kartika-Margasirsha months are also good enough if there is an apprehension of dwindlng water levels on Earth. But in Chaturmaasaas and Shukraastamaas, digging works be avoided. Jala Pratishtha or Installation of Water Sources is best done in the Nakshatras of Ashwini, Rohini, Mriga Sheersha, Pushya, Makha, Uttara, Uttaraashaadha, Uttaraa -bhadra, Shatabhisha , Hasta, Jyeshta, Anuraadha, and Revati; of the Tithas the best once are Vidiya, Tritiya, Chaturthi, Panchami, Saptami, Dashami, Ekadashi, and Trayodhashi; or of the best days like Budha , Guru-Shukra and Soma. If the digging of done otherwise, that water should not be utilised. Again, once installed if such wells or water bodies are not used for long, the water is not to be utilised unless Chandrayana Vrata be observed before use. Vrikshaadiropana (Gardening): The best time for initiating the act of gardening or to install new plants or trees would be in the ideal Nakshatra-Tithi-Vaara times. The best Nakshatras are Ashwini, Rohini, Mrigaseersha, Pushya, Magha, Uttara, Uttaraashaadha, Uttaraabhaadra, Hasta, Chitra, Vishakha, Anuradha- Moola-Shatabhisha- Revati. Asleshaayaam Soma Vaarassomey Lagney balaadhikah, Yogesmin ropayedikshum kadali kramukaadikaan/ (The ideal time for planting sugarcane, plantain and nutmeg is on Mondays in Aslesha Nakshatra, Soma Lagna when Chandra is strong). Naarikelaanvapeyd bhumaa vasinyaam lagnageravou, Naaga valleem Gurou lagney chandrey chaamshastitey sati/ (In Ashwini Nakshatra when Surya is in Lagna, Naariyal or coconut plants be sown in Bhumi, and in Brihaspati Lagna in Chandra lagnaamsha, betel leaf creepers be planted.
Murti Pratishtha (Installation of Deva Idols): Pratishthaa Sarva Devaanaam Vaishakha Jyeshtha Phalguney, Chaitretusyadwi -kalpena Maaghe Vishnanya Murtishu/ Soumyaayaney Shubhaa proktaa ninditaa Dakshinaayaney/ (The Pratishtha of all types of Devas is most auspicious in Vaishakha-Jyeshtha-Phalguna Months ; Chaitra Month is of Vikalpa or of medium value; Magha Month it is auspicious to perform the istallation for all other Devas excepting of Vishnu Bhagavan. Murti Pratishtha is most suited in Uttaraayana but not in Dakshinaayana. However some Vedic Experts feel that in Dakshinayana too, the Pratishtha of Sapta Matrikaas, Bhairava Murti, Varaha Murti, Nrisimha Murti, Tri- Vikrama Murti, and Devi Murtis could be installed in Dakshinaayana also. Vishnossha- staas Chaitra Maasaashwina Shraavanakaa api, Maagha Phalguna Vaishakha jyeshthaashaadha sahaassucha/ Shaavanecha na bhasyecha Linga Sthaapana muttamam/ (For Vishnu Sthaapana, the ideal months are Chaitra- Ashviyuja and Shravanas; to install Shiva Linga, the suitable months are Maagha- Phalguna-Vaishakha- Jyeshta- Ashadha- Margasirsha-Shravana- Bhadrapadaas). Devyaa -maagheshwiney maaseyt-Uttamaa sarva kaamadaa/ (For Devi Pratishtha, the months of Maagha, and Ashwiyuja are the best). Sarva Devataa Pratishtha is appropriate in the Nakshatras other than Ashwini, Rohini, Uttara, Uttaraashaadha, Uttaraabhaadra, Mrigasirsha, Punarvasu, Pushya, Hasta, Chitra, Swati, Anuradha, Shravana, Dhanishtha, Shatabhisha, and Revati as also all the days other than Saturdays and Tuesdays; the Darsha Riktaati Rikta Tithis are also not suitable). Vishnu Pratishtha is excellent on Dwadashis coinciding with Shravana, Krittikaadi and Vishakhaanta Nakshatraas. Chaturthi is the most ideal for Ganesha Pratishtha. Navami with Moola Nakshatra is the most ideal for Devi Pratishtha. Like wise, the Nakshatras concerned to distinct Devas are to be taken into significance like Ardra for Shiva Bhagavan, Hasta for Surya Deva and so on. Hantrartha heenaa kartaaram Mantra heenaa tu rutwijam, Striyam lakshana heenaatu na pratishthaa samoripuh/ (In the event of Murti Pratishta, if the Karta is short of money then it would be inauspicious for him; if the Pratishtha suffers from insufficiency of Mantras, then the Ritwicks would face ‘Arishtaas’ or great risks of life; if there is deficiency of the Pratima, then the Kartha’s women are would have to face the consequences.) Brahmaatu Braahmanai sthaapyo Gayatri sahitah Prabhuh, Savarnaistathaa Vishnuh pratishthaapya ssukaadhibih/ (As Brahma is along with Gayatri, Brahmanas should do the Pratishtha of Gayatri Murti. Like wise, Vishnu Pratishta is to be done by the Public who are all in the quest of happiness.) Maatru Bhiravaadyaah sarvey, Shiva Lingam Yati naapi/ (Matru Bhiravaadi Pratimas might be installed by any body, while Yatis are required to perform the Pratishtha of Shiva Linga.) Nutana sthapitam Lingam Stree Shudrovaapi na sprushet/ In the context of Shiva Pratishtha, women do not have the approval of playing any role. Shudrovaa nupaveetovaa Striyovaa patitopavaa, Keshavam vaa Shivam vaapi sprushtwaa Narakamasnutey/ One should face North while worshipping a Pratima facing the East. If it is a ‘Chala Vigrah’ or a moveable Murti, only Brahmanas could perform formal Puja. A Pratima could be prepared of Gold, Silver, Copper, Mrittika, Stone, Dhaatus or alloys, Pearls, brass or bronze. Its size might vary from the height of an Angushtha to a foot but should not be higher. Some persons make the worship-worthy Pratimas out of wood, lac and such other material also. There is no need to set up Yantras underneath the Pratimas nor there is need for ‘Nitya Snaana’ or regular wash, excepting perhaps on ‘Parva Dinaas’ or festival / significant days so that they are cleaned up. Pancha Sutri Nirnaya: The height, width and circumference of a Shiva Linga as also the measurements of its base and Soma Sutra measurements are called ‘Pancha Sutras’. Taking into account the Linga ‘Siro vistara’, the Linga’s height and the Linga’s circumference, the ‘Peetha’ or base of the Linga should be made in a circular manner so that the the circumference of the Peetha should be double of the Linga’s measurement. It must be ensured that two Lingas are worshipped in the same house: Grihey Linga dwayam naarcham Saalagraamadwayam tathaa, Dwechakrey dwaarakaayaastu naarcheyet Surya dwayam tathaa/ Shakti trayam Tri Vighnesham dwousham bhunaarchayetsudhih/ (In the same house, there should not be the worship of two Shiva Lingas, two Shaala graamaas, two Dwaraka chakraas, two Suryaadhishthaanaas, three Shaktyadhishtaanaas and several Vighneshaadhistaanaas and two Shankhas.) Also, Naarchayeccha tathaa Matsya Kurmaadi Dashakam gruhey/ (In the same house, there should not be the worship of Dashavataaras together.). There should not also be a Puja of Pratimas half burnt, partly mutilated, or broken, although a shalagrama broken or spoilt could be worshipped. Salagraama daana is equivalent to Prithvi daana. Brothers must observe separate Devatarchana, Agnihotra, or Brahma Yagna.
Shaalagraama Puja: Saalagraama shilaakreetaa madhyamaa yaachitaadhamaa, Ukta lakshana sampanna paaramparya kramaagataa, Uttamaasaatu Vigneyaa Guru dattaatu tatsamaa/ ( A saala -graama which is bought has a medium value, the one requested for and obtained is of low value, the one that is secured from family tradition is of considerable propitiousness and that which is received by Guru is indeed the best).Tatraapyaamalaki tulya pujyaa sukshmeva yaa bhavet, Yathaa yathaa shilaa sulshmaa tathaasyaattu maha phalaa/ Yava maatram tu gartasswaadyavaartham Linga -muchyatey, Shiva naabhi ritikhyaatastrishu lokeshu durlabhah/ (A shalagrama of the size of a small Amla fruit is most worthy of worship. A tiny sized seed-like Shaalagraama is indeed very rare to procure and is called as ‘Shiva Naabhi’). A saalagraama once installed and invoked in a ‘Praana Pratishtha’and detailed puja, needs to be worshipped with daily puja but need not be formally bathed or treated with regular ‘Sampro -kshana’etc. Thus the daily Puja vidhana does not require Prana Pratishtha, Prokshana, Aavahana; but the Naamas of Vaasudeva, Sankarshana, Pradyumna, Aniruddhaadi be recited along the Puja; it is stated that Vaasudeva has five Chakras, Sankarshana has seven, Pradyumna six, and Aniruddha eleven. Vishnu preetikaram nityam Tulasi kaashta chandanam, Kaartikey ketakee Pushpam yena dattam Hareyh Kalou/ Deepa daanaancha Devarshey taaritam tena Vaikulam/ ( The person who lights a deepa with Tulasi Kaashtha chandana and offers Ketaki Pushpa as also gives away Deepa Daana to Shri Hari in Kartika Maasa leads his entire Vamsha to Salvation.) Again, Agraahyam Shiva Nirmaaly- am Patram pushpam phalam jalam, Saalagraamasya samspra shaat Sarvamyaati pavitrataam/ (In the case of Shiva Linga Puja, Patra-Pushpa-Phala Nirmaalyaas are forbidden to take away by the devotees, but in the case of Saalagraama the Archana material could be taken away as the Nirmalya. Salagrama Puja is to be done with the middle finger and Anamika finger while nirmalya is to be picked up by Angushtha and Tarjani fingers. In case Saalagrama Puja is performed with Bhasma Tripundra and Rudraaksha Maala then Maha Deva would be immensely pleased too. Rudraaksha-Tulasi Maalaa Dharana/ Samskaara: Wearing Rudraksha Maala has to be accompanied the Mantras and also having applied ‘Panchaamrita’ and ‘Pancha -gavyas’.Rudraakshasya Pratishthaayaam Mantram Panchaaksharam tathaa, Triambakaadi Mantram cha, Tathaa tatra prayojayet/ (While wearing Rudraaksha Maala, the ‘Triyambika Mantra’ and ‘Panchaakshari Mantra’ be recited.) The beads of the Mala must have hundred eight, or fifty four or atleast twenty seven. The Japa Maalaas before wearing should be treated with Pancha gavyas and after wash, should recite Om- Hreem- and the Sanskrit Alphabets viz. Am-Aaam-Im-Eem-Vum-Voom-Rum-Room- Lum-Loom-Aem-Aim-Am-Aah-Kam-Kham- Gam-Gham- Gnyam- Cham- Chaam- Jam- Jham-Inim- Tam-Tham-Dam-Dham-Nam-Tam-Tham-Dum-Dham-Nam-Pam-Pham-Bum-Bham-Mam-Yam-Ram-Lam-Vam-Sham-Sham-Sam-Hum-Llam and Ksham/ Thereafter these fifty Maatrikaas and a Maala of Ashwattha Patraas be coincided in a Nyasa with the following Five Mantras: Om Sadyo jaataam, Vaama Devaaya, Aghorebhyo, Tatpurushaaya, Ishaana-ssarva Vidyaanaam/ The Maala be then washed with Pancha gavyaas again, perform Prokshana with cold water, apply Gandha with Vaamana Deva Mantra, give Dhupa with Aghora Mantra, apply chandana and Kasturi with Tatpuurusha Mantra and perform Abhimantrana of each bead with Aghora Mantra and finally worship with ‘Panchopachaaraas’. Rudraaksha Dhaarana Vidhaana: Rudraakshaan Kantha deshey dashana parimitaan Mastakey Vimshatidwye, Shat Shat Karna Pradeshey Karayugala krutey Dwaadasha Dwaadashaaiva, Baahyaa -rindoh kalaabhirnayana krutey chaiva mekam Shikhaayaam Vaksha -syashtaadhikam yah kalayati shatakam, Saswayam Neela Kanthah/ (A person who wears thirty two beads around the neck, six each around the ears, forty on the head, twelve each on wrists, sixteen each on hands, one each on the eyes, one on tuft and hundred eight on the chest is as good as Nilakantha and one could attain Rudrapada.) Shiva-Vishnu Snaana Vichara: Lingaabhyangana is to be executed as follows: Pancha vimshatphalam Lingeyshyabhyam gamkaara yedadha, Snaapayet -tilatailascha kara yantrod bhavaisshivam/ (Abhyan -gana Snaana is to be performed by applying twenty five ‘palaas’ of sesame oil around the Shiva Linga). This would be followed by Maha Snaana: Payodadhighrita kshoudra sharkaaradyaistatah kramaat, Shivasya sarpishaa snaanam proktam palashateynavai/ Taavata Madhunaachaiva dadhnaapi payasa -picha, Palasaardha sahasrena raneynai vaikshavenacha/ Bhaktyaa choshnodakai sshitodakai samsnaa -pa yecchivam/ (The Maha Snaana is performed to Bhagavan Shiva with milk, curd, ghee, honey, sugar etc. with hundred each of the ‘Palaa’ measures by turns of each of the materials alternatively by hot and cold waters). Vishnu Panchamrita Snaana is also to be done: Shri Vishnum Ksheera dadhyaadyaih kramaaddasha gunottaraih, Snaapayekinchi dushnaischa Ksheeraadyaih Pancha bhissamaih/ (The Panchamrita Snaana is done with milk, curd etc. with hot and cold waters to Bhagavan Vishnu). Vishnwaadi Panchaayatana: Vishnu Panchaayana denotes that with Vishnu Pratima in the middle and other Devataas around him: Vishnur madhye Shive bhaasya Suryaaryaa Isha dikramaat, Shambhur madhye Vishnu Surya Gajaaswaaryaastathaa kramaat/ Ravou madhyagatey Rudra Ganesyaachuta Shaktayah, Madhye Devi Vishnu Shiva Ganesha Ravayah kramaat/ Madhye GanapatirVishnu Shiva Suryaambikaastathaa, Ishaanaadika kramenaiva Panchaayatana Panchakam/ ( Keeping Vishnu Murti in the middle and Shiva-Ganesha-Suryaabikas in directions starting from Ishaana Disha is called Vishnu Panchayatana; Shiva in the middle and Vishnu-Surya-Ganesha-Ambika in other directions commencing from Ishana is called Shiva Panchaayatana; similarly Surya in the middle and Rudra-Ganesha-Vishnu-Shaktis around from Ishana again is Surya Panchayatana; Devi in the middle and Vishnup-Shiva-Ganesha-Suryas from Ishana is Devi Panchayatana and finally Ganesha in the middle and Vishnu-Shiva-Surya-Ambikaas from Ishana is called Ga nesha Panchaayatana. Hence the pattern of Panchaayatana.
Keshavaadi Naama Dhyana Shlokaas: Dharma Sindhu narrated the Keshava Naama Dhyana Ekadasha Shlokas: Keshaveschaturbahor Dakshinordhwa karam kramaat, Shanka Chakra Gadaa Padmaayudhaih Keshava Uchyatey/ Narayanah Padma Gadaa Chakra Shakhaayudhaih kramaat, Madhavas chakra shankaabh- yaam Padmena Gadayaabhavet/ Govindo Gadayaa Padma Shankha Chakraih kramaadvhavet, Vishnuh padmena shankhena chakrena Gadayaa kramet/ Shankha Padma Gadaa Chakrair Madhusudana Eritah, Trivikramo Gadaa Chakra Shankha Padmairanukramaat/ Vaamana sshankha Chakraabhyaam Padmena Gadayaapicha, Chakrena Gadayaa shankha padmaabhyaam Shridharahsmritah/ Hrishikesha smritah chakra Padma shankha Gadaayudhaih, Padmanaabhah Padmachakra Gadaa Shankhaih kraamats -mrutah/ Damodara sshankha Gadaa Chakra Padmai -rudeeryatey, Samkarshana Shankha Padma Chakra –yudhaih/ Vaasudeva sschakra Gadaa Padma Shankaakhya Lakshanaaih, Pradyumna ssyaacchhaankha Gadaa Padma Chakraih kramaadhrutaih/ Aniruddho Gadaashankha Padma chakrairanukramaat, Padma Shankha Gadaa Chakraayudhaissaat Purushottamah/ Adhokshajo Gadaa shankha chakrapadaih karasthitaih, Narasimhaha padma gadaa shankhachakraayudhair bhavet/ Achyutah padma chakraabhyaam shankhena gadayaakramet, Janaardanah chakrashankha gadaa padmaadhya baahubhih/ Upendro gadayaa chakra padmashankha -anchitaih karaih, Chakrapadma Gadaa Shankhaih karasthaissyaat kramaad Harih/ Shri Krishnaabhyo gadaa padma shankha chakra shankhairmato Vibhuh/ Iti Proktaah Keshavaadi chaturvimshati Murtyayah/ (Vishnu with the twenty four popular names of His is described with the details of his four hands and the four ‘Ayudhas’ that are carried by Him).
Deva Pratishtha Prayoga: The procedure of Deva Pratishtha commences with the Karta’s selection of a suitable Place, construct an ‘Agni / Homa Mandapa’of twelve measures of a normal mid-hand, identify a Homa Kunda of a ‘hasta’s’ measure of square in the East or Ishana of the Mandapa and install Agni with the Sankalpa: Asyaam Murtou Lingevaa Devataa saannidhyartham Deergaahur -lakshmee Sarva Kaama Samruddhyakshayya sukha kaamomu Deva Murti pratishthaam karishye/ The Sankalpa would be followed by Swasti vaachanaas, Naandi Shraaddhaanta, Acharya Varana and Ashta/ Chatur Ritwija Varana. Acharya would then purify the Bhumi with kushodaka prokshana with the Mantra: Apohishthaa mayo –bhuvah taana urjey dadhaatana, Maheranaaya Chakshasey yovasshivatamo rasah / Tasya bhaajaya-tehanah Ushiteeriva Maatarah, Tasmaa Arangamaamavaha Yasya Kshayaaya jinvatha Aapo janayathaa cha nah/ After the prokshana on the Bhumi, Deva Pratishthaapana is accomplished with the Mantra: Devaa aayantu yaatu dhaanaa apayaantu Vishno Deva yajanam rakshaswa/ Bhu Shuddhi is done with the Mantra: Yadatra samstitham Bhutam sthaanamaashritya tishthati, Staanamtyaktwaatu tat sarvam yatrastham tatra gacchatu—Aapakraamantu/ Then Murti is purified with ‘Pancha Gavyaas’ and is immersed in a container full of water along with Suvarna and Yava-Durvaara-Ashwattha-Palaasha leaves with the Apohishtha Mantra as also the following recitals:
Hiranya varnaassuchayah Paavakaah yaa Sujatah Kashyapoyaaswindrah, Agnim yaa garbham dadhirey Virupaastaana Aapassaggusyona bhavantu/ Yaa saag Raajaa varuno yaati madhye satyaanrutey Avapashyan janaanaam, Madhuschuta ssuchayoyaah paavakaastaana Aaapassayussyona bhavantu/ Yaasaam Devaadi Vikrunnvanti bhaksham yaa Antarikshey bahudhaa bhavanti, Yaah Prithiveem payasomdanti Shukraastaana Aaapassag syonaa bhavantu/ Shivenamaa chakshusaa pashyataapah Shivayaa tanuvopa sprutashatwam chamey, Sarvaagum Agneegum rapsushadohuvevomayi varcho balamojo nidhattha/ Pavamaanah Suvarjanah Pavitrena vicharshanih, Yah potaa su punaatumaa, Punantumaa Deva Janaah Punantu manavo dhiyaa/ Punantu Vishwa yaavah Jaatavedah pavitravat, Pavitrena punaahi maa Shukrena Deva deedyat Agney kratwaa kratugumranu /Yattey pavitramarchishi Agney vitataa mantaraa Brahma tena punee mahey, Ubaabhyam Deva Savitah pavitrenasavenacha Idam Brahma puneemahey, Vaishva devi punati Devyaagaat yasyai bahyistanuvo veeta pushtaah, Tayaamadam tassadhamaadyeshu Vayagssyaamapataroyeenaam/ Vaishvaanaro Rashmibhirmaa punaatu, Vaatah Praaneyneshi romayobhuh, Dyaavyaa Prithivi payasaapayobhih, Rutaavariyagnaye maapuneetaam, Bruhadbhissavitastrubhih, Varshtherdevanvabhih, Agney dakshaih punaahimaa, Yena Devaa apunata, Yenapo divyam kashah,Tena Divyena Brahmanaa/ Idam Brahma puneemahey, Yah paavamaaneeradhyeti, Rishibhissambhrutagum rasam,Sarvagum saputamasnaati swaditam Maatarishwanaa Paavamaaneeryop Adhyeti, Rishibhissambhrutag rasam Tasmai Saraswatee duhey, Khseeragum sarpirmadhudakam, Pavamaani swaysytyayanee/ Sudhughaahi payaswatih, Rishibhih sambhrutoRasah/ Braahamayeshvamrutahitam, Pavamaanirdishantunah, Imam Loka Madho Amum; Kaamaansamardha yantunah, Devirdevaissamaabhrutaah, paavamaaniswastyayaneeh sudughaahi ghrutaschytah, Rishibhissambhruto rasah/ Brahmaneshwamrutagum hitam, yena Devaah pavitrena Atmaanamputey sadaa, Tena Sahasra dhaarena, Paavamaanyah punantumaa,Praajaapatyam pavitram, Shatodyaamagum hiranmayam, Tena Brahma vidovayam, Pootam Brahma puneemahey, Indrassuneetee sahamaapunaatu, Somassvastyaa Varunassameechyaa, Yamo raajaa pramrunaabhih punaatumaa, Jaatavedaamorjayantyaa punaatu/ Thus with the above Mantraas, Abhisheka be performed, besides the Vyaahrutis and Idam Vishnu Mantra; thereafter fruits, Yavaas and durvaas are offered; a ‘Kankana’ or wrist-string is tied to Deva Hasta with Rakshoham Mantra; the Deva becovered with a Vastra with the Mantra Avateyhedo Uduttama and finally keep the Deva in water. Chala Murti Pratishtha: In the case of installing ‘Sthira-Chara’ Devataas, the Kartha has to foremost initiate ‘Agni Sthapana’, Graha-Vaastu Devataa dhyana and perform ‘Anvaadhaana’, ‘Chakshushi Aajyena’, Graha Homa to Main Grahas and Adhi Devataas and Pratyadhi Devataas with Samidhaas, Charu, Ghee as also homa to Vaastu Devataas followed by Anvadhaana in favour of the following Devataas: Indram, Prithiveem, Sharvam, Agnim, Pashupatim, Yamam, Yajamaana Murtim, Ugram, Nirrutim, Surya Murtim, Rudram, Varunam, Jala Murtim, Bhavam, Vaayum, Vaayu Murtim, Ishaanam, Kuberam, Soma Murtim, Maha Devam, Aakaasham, Bheemam, Lokapaala Murtim, Murti Prati Devataah/ These Devataas are offered Homa Samidhas of Palaasha- Aoudumbara- Ashwathha-Shamya- and Apaamaarga Vrikshas; tila, charu, and ghrita each hundred and eight times, or possibly one thousand and eight times or atleast twenty eight times minimum; with the Mantra of Agniryujubhir ityanuvaakena Vishwaan Devaan Tilaajyaabhaam Dasha Dashaahutibhih; the Kartha would do Anuvaaka to all the Devatas by way of Tila-Ghrita Aahutis ten times to each of them. This is repeated for the second and third time with the same material and in the same number of Ahutis. After the ‘Aajyaanta’ or the end of the Ahutis, the Karta would perform the ‘Tyaaga’ or the termination of the Homaas reciting: Idamupa kalpita manvaadhaanokta dravyajaata manvaadhaa -noktaahuti paryaapta manvadhaanoktaabhyo Yaksha maanaabhyo Devataabhyostu na mama/ He would then perform homaas with Gruhaanna and five types of samidhas, Tila, Aajya etc. Each of the ‘drayvaas’ or the materials should touch the Devata’s feet, navel and head. Following the Aajya Homaas, the northern side of the Homa Kunda a Jalapaata from a Purna Kumbha be done with the Mantras: Indraayendyo iteendrasya, syoneti Prithivi Murteyh, Aghorebhyo iti tatpateyh Sharvasya, Agna aayaahotyagneyh, Agni dutamityagni murteyh, Namah Sharvaaya cha Pashupataye cheti Pashupateyh, Yamaaya Somamiti Yamasya, Asahi Veereti Yajamana Murtih, Stuhi Shrutamiti tatpateyrugrasya, Asunvantamiti Nirruteyh, Aakrishneyneti Surya Murtih/ These Mantras are addressed to Indra, Prithivi, Sharva, Agni, Agni Murti, Pashupati, Yama, Yajamaana Murti, Murti Pati Ugra, Nirruti, and Surya Murti respectively). Other Mantras are: Yo Rudro Agnaaviti taptaye Rudrasya addressed to Rudra; Imam mey Varuna Shrudhee havamadyaa cha Mridaya addressed to Varuna Deva; Shannodevi etc. to Jala Murti; Namo Bhavaayacha Rudraayacha to Rudra Bhagavan; Aano Niyudbhih to Vayu Deva; Vaata Aavaatu to Vayu Murti; Tameeshaanam to Ishana deva; Aapyaa -yaswa to Kubera Deva; Vayam Soma to Soma Murti; Tat Purushaaya Vidmahey Maha Devaaya dheemahi tanno Rudrah prachodayaat/ addressed to Rudra; Abhitvaadey to Ishana Murti; Adithyaprasannasya to Akasha Deva and to Nama Ugraayacha Bheemaayacha to Bhima Deva. Following these salutations and homaas with Samidha Panchakas of ‘Palaashomoburaadis’, Payasa-Charu-Tila-Aajyaas, the Kartha should touch the feet-navel-Siras of Shaapna Deva with Mula Mantras, Deva Gayatri or other Vaidika Mantras. Then Tilaajyaahutis are performed by the Karta ten times to each of the following Devas with the Mantras: Agniryajubhih, Savitaa Stomaih, Indra Ukthaamadaih, Mitraa Varunaa vaashisha, Angirasodhishniyairagnibhih, Maruta ssadoha virdhaa, Naabhyaam, Aapah prokshaneebhih, Oshadayo Barhishaa, Aditirvedyaa, Somo deekshayaa, twashtedhmena, Vishnuryagnena, Vasava Aajyena, Adityaa Dakshinaabhih, Vishwadevaa Uurjyaa, Pushaanvaa -gaakaarena, Brihaspatih Purodhayaa, Prajaaparirudgeedhana, Antariksham pavitrena,Vaayuh Paatraih, Ahagshraddhaayaa swaahaa/ Then perform ‘Deva Paada Sparshsha’, Abhisheka, Dwiteeya Homa, Deva Naabhi Sparsha and again the triteeya homa, Deva Shira Sparsha and so on. In all the three Sevas, the Karta is required to execute four thousand seven hundred sixty four homas and finally prostrate to the Pratishtha Deva and welcome Him stating: Swaagatam Deva Devesha Vishwarupa Namostutey, Shuddhepi twadhishthaney Shuddim kurmassahaswa taam/ ( Deva Devesha! Our sincere greetings to you on your most propitious arrival ; we are trying to sanctify and purify this spot for your installation).Then along with the help of Ritviks, the Karta lifts the Murti for ‘Agnyuttarana’ reciting the Mantras: Uttishtha brahmanaspatey and Agnissapta Manu Sukta. Repeat the recitations hundred eight times, clean up the Murti after Mrittika Snaanaas added with ‘Pancha Gavyaas’ and recite the Mantra: Payah Prithivyaam Paya Oshadheeshu Payo Divyam tarikshe -payodhaam, Payaswateeh Pradishassantu mahyam/ Avo Raajaanamiti cha samsnaanapya Aapyaayasveti Pancha Mantraih: Panchaamritena [Gavya maajyam dadhi ksheeram maakshikam sharkaraanvitam, Ekatra Militam jneyam Divyam Panchaamritam param] samsnaapya; the Panchagavyas are applied to theif the Pratishtha Murti with the above Ruchas; if the Pratishta deva is a Shiva Linga the Pancha gavyas and Panchamritas are used in the Abhisheka with Namastey Rudra Mantra. After the Snaana, Ghritaabhyanga, Ushna Jala Prakshaalana, and Jalaabhisheka with tender leaves, Aoushadhis, Sapta Dhaanyaas,Pancha Ratnaas, Phala Pushpaas, Darbha Doorva Gorochanaas, in four vessels along with Apohishthaa—Yo vassivatamo rasah, Tasmaa—Mantras. After the Abishekaas, Vastra-Yagnopaveeta—Gandha-Pushpa- Dhupa-Deaapaas are offered. Eight Deepas are offered with the Mantra: Om Hiranya garbhah ,Om ya Atmadaah; Om yah Praanato, Om yasyamey, Om Yenadhouh, Om Yam krandasi, Om Aapohayat , Om Yaschidaapo, Ityashtou Peetha deepaan datwaa/ With a golden wire honey and ghee are offered to the Murti’s both eyes along with the Mantra: Om Chitram Devaanaam , Om Tejosi Sukramasyamrita masi dhaamanaamaasi, Priyam Devaanaamanaadhrushtham Deva Yajanmaasi/ as also Om Namo Bhagavatey tubhyam Shivaaya Harye namah, Hiranya retasey Vishno Vishwa rupaaya tey namah/ Later, Anjana is applied to the Pratishtha Deva’s eyes. The Karta would then offer Naivedya to the Deva, Go daana to Acharya and Dakshinas to Ritwijas. Neeraajana is shown to the Deva ( in the case of Rudra Deva leave it at the Chatuspatha or the Four Path point with the Mantra: Om Namo Bhagavatey Rudraaya Sarva Bhutaabhipataye Deepta Shuladharaayomaadayitaaya Vishvaadhipataye Rudraayavai namo namah , Shivamagarhitam karmaastu swaahaa/ Then the Acharya should invoke the Sarvato Bhadra Devas; the ‘Aavahana’ is as follows: In the centre Brahma, in the Ashtadishas the Ashta paala -kaas, in the specified directions the Deities viz. Indra, Astaavasus, Ekaadasha Rudraas, the two Ashwini Devatas, Vishvedeas, Pitru Devas, Naagaas, Daksha, Vishnu, Durga, Swadhaakaara, Mrityu Devata, Samudra Nadis, Marutdevataas, Ganapati, Meru,Prithivi, Vajra-Shakti-Danda- Khadga- Paasha- Ankusha-Gada-Shulaadi Aayudhaas; Gautami-Bharadwaaja-Vishwamitra-Kashyapa-Jamadagni-Vasishtha-Atriadi Rishis; to Nava Grahas; Ashta Koumaris viz. Aindri-Kaumari-Brahmi-Vaaraahi-Chaamunda-Vaishnavi-Maaheshwari- Vainaayaki and so on. After the Sarvadevaahana, the Mukhya Deva is lifted along with Mangala Vaadyaas and placed on his Shayya or bed while Purusha Sukta and Mahanyasa are recited. Anga Nyasa is performed with the ‘Naamaas’ viz. Purushatmaney namah, Praanaat -maney namah, Prakriti Tatwaatmaney namah,Buddhi Tatwaaya namah, Ahamkaara Tatwaaya namah,and Manstatwaaya namah/ Nyaasa is also done with various Deha Tatwaas viz. Rasa-Gandha-Shrotra- Tyakshu-Jihva-Ghraana- Vaak- Paani-Paada-Paayupastha and Prithivyaakaashaadis and Satwa-Rajas-Tamo Gunaas. At the end, as the Pratishta Devata is put to Yoga Nidra, Homa sesha-Balidaanaas are concluded and Purnahuti is accomplished. This is briefly the Chara Deva Pratishtha Vidhaana. Praana Pratishta: After the preliminary prayers, homaas, Abhishekas and various Pujas, the Pratishtha Devata is lifted from Yoga Nidra with the Mantras: Uttishtha Brahmanaspatey and resort to Dhyana: Brahmaney namah, Vishnave namah, Rudraaya namah, Indraadyashthabhyo, Vasubhyo, Rudrebhyo, Aadirtyebhyo, Ashvibhyam, Kurudbhyo, Kuberaaya, Gangaadi Maha Nadeebhyo, Agneeshomaabhyaam, Indraagnibhyaam, Dyavaa Prithiveem bhyaam, Dhanvantaraye, Sarveshaaya,Vishvebhyo, Brahmaney/ Then with Pushpaanjalis and Purna Bhavanaas, the Sarva Sakshi Bhagavan is felt seated before the Karta and the Prana Pratishtha Vidhana is initiated with the Maha Sankalpa: Asya Shri Prana Pratishthaa Mantrasya BrahmaVishnu Rudraa Rishayah, Rikyajiussaamaani chandaamsi, Kriyamayavapuh, Praanaakhyaa Deataa,Aam Beejam Stroum Shaktih Praana Pratishthaayam viniyogah, Brahma Vishnu Rudra Risheybhoy namah Shirasi, Rikyajursaamacchaandebhoy namah, Mukhey, Praanaakhya devataayai, Hridi, Aam Beejaaya Guhye Kroum Shaktayai, Paadayoh/ Om Kam, Kham,Gam, Gham, Jnam, Am Prithivyaapastejo -vayavyaakaashatmaney Aam Hridayaya; Om cham, chham, jam, jham, neem;eem shabda sparsha rupa rasa gandhaatmaney Eem Shirasey swaahaa; Om tam, tham, dum, dhum, nnam, Voom, Shrotra twak chakshur jihvaa ghraanaatmaney voom Shikhaayai vashat; Om tam, tham, dum,dham, nam , yem vaak paani paada payupasthatmaney Yyem Kavachaaya hum; Om pam, pham, bum, bham Om vachanaa daana viharanaot sargaanandaatmaney Om netra trayaaya voushat/ Om yam, rum, lam, sham, sam, hum, ksham, tram Manobuddhyahankaara chittaatmaney ahaha Astraaya phut (make sound with the Astra Mudra); Thus the Kartha and the Pratishthita Deva establish ‘nyaasa’ or direct contact, touch the Deva and perform Japa as follows: Om Aaam hreem kroum yam rum lam vam sham shum sum hum llam ksham-Devasya praanaa iha praanaah/ Om Aaam hraam kroum yam rum lam vam sham shum sum hum sah - Devassajeeva ihassthitah/ Om aam hraam Hamsah –Devasya sarvendri –yaani/ Om Aaam Hraam Hamsah-Devasya Vaagmana chakshusshrotra ghraana praanaa ihaagatya swastaye sukhena suchiram tishthantu swaahaa/ So saying the Karta should keep his Angushtha on the Deva Pratima’s heart and recite: Asyai praanaastishtantu, Asyai Praanaas -charantu, Asyai Devatwamar –chaayai maama heticha kaschana/ Then keep reciting Pranava, perform Dhyaana with Dhruvaadyouh and three other Ruks, slowly give Gayatri in the ears of the Deva, give Purusha Sukta touching the Idol’s paada-naabhi and siras and make the japa of Ihai vidhi thrice. The Karta then would recite the following prayer: Swaagatam Deva Devesha madbhaagyaatwa mihaagatah, Praakrutam twamadrushtwaa maam Baalavat paripaalaya/ Dharmaartha Kaama siddhyartham sthiro bhava Shivaayanah, Saannidhyam tu sadaa Deva swarchaayaam parikalpaya/ Yaavacchanraapani Suryaastishthantya pratighaatinah, Taavatwa yaatra Devesha stheyam Bhaktaanukampayaa/ Bhagavan Devadevesha twam pitaa Sarva dehinaam, Yena Rupena Bhagavan twayaa vyaaptam charaacharam, Tena Rupena Devesha swaarchaa -yaam sannidhou bhava/ (Deva Devesha! May your arrival bring all round happiness to us; it isd our unique fortune that we are able to vision you! Kindly do not ignore me that I am a Prakruta and Ayogya or Worldly wise and Undeserving! Do please treat me as a child and provide me protection from the vicissitudes in life and bestow all kinds of fulfillments of Dharma-Artha-Kaama- Moksha. Do bless me to be always near you till such time that Surya and Chandra last for ever. Indeed you are the father of the Srishti in totality and the Omni Present and the Omni Scient; never discard me and bestow my proximity always!) Then the Acharya or the Karta should formally welcome the Archana Murti ar the Shiva Linga as the case that be with the Aavaahayami Mantras: Bhuh Purusha maavaahayaami, Bhuvah Purusha -maavaahayaami, Swah Purusha maavaahayaami, Bhurbhuvah Purusha maavaahayaami/ After the Aavaahana, provide ‘Aasana’ with Pranava, ‘Paadodaka’ with Durva-Shaamaa-Vishnu -kraanta-Kamala Pushpas with the recital of Om imaa Aaapah Shiva tamaah, Putaah Putatamaa Amritaa Amrita rasaah Paadyaastyaajushataam pratigrihyataam pratigrhnnaatu Bhagavaan Mahaa Vishnuh Vishnavey namah/ If it were a Shiva Linga, the Padya pradaana is done with: Bhagavan Mahaa Devo Rudraaya Namah/ Then Aachamaniya be offered: Imaa Aapassi -vatamaa, Aachamaneeyastaa rushantaam pratigrihyataam/ Then Arghya and Panchaamrita snaana: Imaa Aapah Arghyastaa rushantaam –Idam Vishnuh to Vishnu or to Shiva Linga with Namostu Nilagrivaaya/ Further Vastra and Yanopaveeta be offered followed by ‘Gandha’ with the Mantra: Imey Gandhaasshubhaa divyaassarva gandhair alankritaah, Putaa Brahma Pavitrena Putaa Suryasya rashmibhih/ Pushpa maalas be offered: Imey Maalyaasshubhaa Divyaassarva maalyairalankrutaah/ Further ‘dhupa’be offered: Vanaspati rasodbhuto ghandhaadhyo Gandha mutta –mah, Aaghreyassarva Devaanaam dhupoyam pratigrihyataam/ The next offering is of Deepa: Om Jyotisshukram cha Tejascha Devaanaam satatam priyam, Prabhaakritssava bhutaanaam Deepoyam Pratigrihyataam, Pratigrihnaatu bhavaan/ While offering the Deepa, the Karta dedicates flowers to each of the Vishnu Naamaas and performs Dwadasha Ahutis to Agni Deva of Payasa Gudaanna in favour of Sharanginey, Shriyai, Sarasvatyai, Vishnavey as also the Mantras : Vishnornukam veeryaani, Tadasya Priya, Pratadvishnuh, Paromaatrayaa, Vichakramey, Trirdevah Prithivi/ followed by Naivedya of Griha Siddhaana with Tilas to Vishnu. In the case of Shiva Linga, after the Deepa Darshana, the Karta recites: Bhavaayadevaaya, Sharvaaya devaaya, Ishaanaaya devaavaaya, Pashupataye devaaya, Rudraaya devaaya, Ugraaya devaaya, Bheemaaya devaaya, ahatey devaaya and performs Pushpa Puja, Tarpana, Tilaanna Homa, Paayasa Gudaanna Homa and Nivedana with the Mantras: Bhavasya Devasya Patnai Swaha, Bhavasya Devasya Sutaayai swaaha; Traiyambakam Maanomahaantam maanastaakey Aaaraattey vikirada, Sahasraani Sahasram; Shivaaya Shankaraaya Sahamaanaaya Shitikanthaaya Kapardiney Taamraaya Arunaaya Aapaguramaanaaya Hiranyabaahavey Saspinjaraaya Babhrushaaya, Hiranyaaya/ Finally, the Karta gives away Go daanaas and Dakshinaas to Ritviks and organises Vipra Bhojana to either hundred or at least to twelve minimum. In the Nutana Devalaya, there should be a Jalaashaya Pratishta too. Samkshipta Chala Murti Pratishtha: The Karta has to make the Sankalpa, Naandi Shraaddha, Acharya Varana, Aamuka Deva Pratishta Karma, Sarvato Bhadra Mandala Prakriya, Brahmaadi Mandala Devata-Aavaahana Puja, Agni Pratishtha and Anvaadhaana, Samidha- ajya-tila-charu homa to ‘Sthaapya Devata’ and Mandala Devataas, Pratishtha Devata’s Mrittikaa Snaana with Dasha Mrittikaas of Tadaaga-Nadi-Teera- Goshtha-Chatwara or the Center of Four Roads-Parvata-Gajasthaana-Ashwasthaana-Hrada- Valmika-Nadi Sangama Sthala; Pancha Gavya Snaana; Ashtha Kalasha Sthapana with Durva, white Mustard and Pancha Pallavaas; Mantraabhisheka; Agnyut -taarana; Ashta Kumbha Sthaapana; Ashta Deepa Karana; Deva Netronmeelana; Chitraanna Bali; Purusha Sukta Stuti; Chaturpadardha Aajya Homa; Mandala Devataa Homa, Purnaahuti; Sukta Nyaasa Aavaahana; Panchamrita Snaana, Abhisheka; Vastra-Yagnopaveeta-Dhupa-Deepaadi-Naivedya-Tamboola-Phala-Neeraajana-Pradakshina-Pushpaanjali; Kshamaapana Prarthana- Acharya Dakshina-Ashta Kumbhaabhisheka to Karta-Brahmana Bhojana-Vishnu Smarana-and Ishwaraarpana. Punah Pratishtha: The Pratishtha Devata requires Punah Pratishtha in the events of Madya-Chandaala Sparsha, Vahni Dagdhana, Brahmana Rakta-Paapaatma Sparsha, Murti Bhedana/ Khandana, Sthaana Chalana, Nitya Puja Naasti, Shava- Gardhabaadi-Asuchi Vastu- Patita-Chora-Rajaswala Sparsha and so on. There no doubt could be remedies for none-too-pronounced flaws such as Archana Bhangata for a few days or minor chouryaas, then observance of dina-ratri upavaasa might absolve the deficiency. If Puja is not done on one day, one could perform double puja or if it is abscence of two Ratris, then Maha Puja be performed. But if there is prolonged failure of Puja, Dhatu Murti Sparsha by Chora-Chandala-Rajaswala or such serious blemishes occur, then Loha Patra Shuddi, Murti Punah Pratishtha and such actions of Restoration would be called for. The Process entails Jalaadhi vaasa, Pancha Gavya Snaana, Kalasha Snaana with Purusha Sukta ranging from twenty eight to eight thousand times; Gandha Pushpaadi Puja, Gudaanna Nivedana should bestow Punah Pratishtha purification. Punah Pratishta should could be performed in Mala Maasaas, Shukraasthamayaadis and such other days too after ascertaing the suitable Dina-Nakshatra-Muhurtas. If there is destruction or decadence of Devalaya’s Vaapi-Kupa-Tadaagaas then Ajyaahutis be executed with the Mantra Maanastokey Vishnoh karmaani paadosya, followed by Brahmana Bhojanaas. Puja lopa Samprokshana: The Karta has to perform Devodwaasana, Mrikkikaa Jala- Pancha Gavya Snaana, Kushodaka shodhana with Moola Mantraas, Ashtottara Shata Prokshana, Shira-Peethaanta Sparsha, Tatwa Nyasa-Maatrukaakshara Nyasa-Mantra Nyasa-Prana Pratishtha and Maha Puja. Jeernoddhaarana Vidhi: This is essentially in respect of the eventuality of Lingaadi Bhagna-Dagdhana. If it is a Siddha Pratishthita Linga, then Mahaabhisheaka might suffice, unless the damage is extensive. In such an extreme case, the Jeernodhaara Vidhi is as follows: The Karta should make the Sankalpa Amuka Devasya Jeernoddhaaram karishye/ ; Naandi Shraaddha, Acharya Varana, Peetha Mandala Devataavaahana, Linga Shadanga Nyasa, Aghora Mantra Japa, Agni Pratishtha, Ghritakta Sarshapa Sahasra Homa to Indraadis and Tila Homa to Jeerna Deva with the Mantra: Jeerna bhagna midam chaiva Sarva doshaadaham Nrinaam, Asyoddaarey kritey shaanti ssaastresmin kathitaa twayaa/ Jeernoddhaara vidhaanamcha Nripa raashtra hitaavaham, Tadadhisthaayataam Deva praharami tavaagnyaa/ (Deveshwara! As this Murti is not in perfect condition, this has to be revived lest, there might be several obstacles to the Society as a whole and there is need for resoration of the Pratishta Devata. To the Kingship and the Kingdom there could be perils like Kshaama-Rogas affecting the peace of the Public and that is why we wish to replace the affected Murti in a formal and Vedic manner as per your own inspiration and instruction.). As the first step of the ‘Lingoddaarana’, Hundred Eight ‘Tilaajyaahutis’ are perfomed, besides thousand times with Ksheera- Madhu- Durvaaraadi Samiddhaas with the prayers to Linga Swarupa as follows: Linga rupam samaagatya yenedam samadhishthitam, Yaayaastwam sammitam staanam samtyajjaiva Shivaagnayaa/ Atra sthaaney cha yaa Vidyaa Sarva Vidyeshwaryair- yutaah, Shivena saha santishtheyuh/ ( Ishwara! You are manifested in the Linga Swarupa, but as this Linga is not worship worthy since it is not fully perfect, we hereby obey your own directive to replace the original with a new Linga so that it could be enjoined in the comity of Devas to be worshipped ). ‘Visarjana’of the Jeerna Linga be thus done with the Prokshana along with Astra Mantras, pull it out with Vaama Deva Mantras and leave it in the fast currents of a River amid Pranava Naada. If the Jeena Linga is a Daaru Linga, then it should be placed in Agni. To accomplish Shanti on account of disposing of the Jeerna Murti or Linga, homaas be executed thousand times reciting Aghoraadi Mantras with ghee, milk, honey and stating: Bhagavan Bhuta bhavyesha Loka Naatha Namostutey, Jeerna Linga samuddhaa –rah krutastavaagnyayaa mayaa/ Agni naa Daarujam dagdham kshiptam Shailaadikam Jaley Praayas -chittaaya Devesha Aghoraastrena tarpitam, Jnaanato jnaanatovaapi yathoktam na kritam yadi, Tatsarvam Puranamey Vaastu twatpraasaadaan Maheshwara/ (Bhagavan! You are indeed the Master of the generations of the Past-Present and the Future; it is indeed under your instruction that I have discarded the Jeerna Linga either by scorching in Agni if it is a Daaru Linga, or by keeping in the swift waters if it is made of Stone; this task as was done either by ignorance or full awareness and as a Prayaschitta I have performed tarpanaas with Aghoraastra Mantras). Go Vipra Shilpi bhutaanaa maachaaryasya cha Yajvanah, Shantirbhavatu Devesha Aachhidram jaayataa midam/ ( Deveshwara! May Arishta Shanti be bestowed on Go Brahmanas, Shilpi who has constructed the Linga to be commisioned soon, and may the new Linga be everlasting without impediments as being worship-worthy for ever). Having resolved to replace the Jeerna Linga with the New One, the Karta must ensure that within a month’s time the consecration must be accomplished. Pratimaa bhanga Shanti Vidhana: There indeed is a risk of life to the Karta in the absence of even a Jeerna Murti / Linga till the new one is installed. The Shanti Vidhana is as follows: Kundam krutwaa vidhaanena tato homam samaacharet, Charumcha Yama Daivatwam saadhayitwaa vidhaanatah/ Dadhikshoudra ghritaaktaanaa mashvattha samidhaamtatah, Juhuyaaashti shatam praagna imaa Rudreti mantravit/ Maashairgudgaistilaischaiva Ghritinaa Madhunaapicha, Ebhih Pancha Sahapraani Shakti beejena homayet, Bhumim Dhenu manadvaaham swarnam dhaanyam sadakshinmam, Datwaatha Pancha gaveyna snaayaa ddevaalaye Dwijah/ Balim dadyaadyamaa -yaatha krisarai paayasaistathaa, Ishaanaaya Balim datwaa kritakrityo Bhavennarah/ (An Agni Kunda be made and offered to Agni a Yama Deva-oriented Charu followed by hundere eight Aahutis of curd-honey-ghee applied Samidhaas of Peepul Tree with the Mantra of Imaa Rudraa followed by five thousand homaas with the Mula Mantra Heenkaara using Maasha- Mudgara- Tilka- Ghee and Madhu.Then Pancha Gavya be applied in washing Bhumi, Dhenu, Vrishabha, Swarna, Dhanyam, Dakshinam. Yama Bali be given with Dadhyanna and Paayasa Bali to Ishaana. Puja be done with fresh and unspoilt flowers and fruits as Naivedya.
Pushpa Puja Prakarana: Following is a brief account of Flowers to adore Devaas. Dharmaarjita Dhana keetataryah kuryaat Keshavaarchanam,Aparyushita doshosti maalaa kaara griheshucha/ (Those Pushpaas which are bought out of one’s earnings in a Dharmika way are indeed worthy of Puja to Devas. Such flowers for one’s own Nitya Puja need be procured even by ‘Chourya Saadhana’ or thieving but not by begging.’ Nirmalya’ is defined as: Devopati dhrutam Vaamahasteydhovastrey cha Jalentah Ksaalatam cha Pushpam Nirmalyam/ ( Those flowers plucked into Vastras, or brought my left hand, those which are washed in water, or those which are requested for are called Nirmalya. ) Varjyam paru -shitam Pushpam Varjyam parushitam jalam, Na Varjyam Tulasi Patram na varjyamTulasi patram na varjyam Teertha jam Jalam/ (Those folowers and waters which are acquired a day earlier are not worthy of puja.However Tulasi Patra and Tirtha Jala are worthy of worship). Jaaji Pushpa is stated not to cross a ‘Yaama’ for worship. Karavira could last for a day and night. Tulasi, Bilwa Patra do not suffer from the time limit. Kundana or Jasmine, Chandana, Agastya Pushpa and Kalikaas or flower buds are stated to be fresh as they are received. Bilva patra lasts freshness for thirty days, Apamarga for three days, Jaaji patra one day, Tulasi for six days, Shami Patra for six days, Shatavari for eleven days, Ketaki for four days, Bhringaraaja for nine days, Durvaara for eight days, Mandara for one day, Padma for one day, Nagakesara for two days, Darbha for thirty days, Agastya for three days, Tila for one day, Mallika for four days, Champaka for nine days, Karaveera for eight days and so on. Tulasi Mahima: As regards Tulasi, it is stated that during the Vaidhruti and Vyatipata times, Sunday-Tuesday-Fridays, Purnima and Amavasyas, Sankranti days, Dwadashi Tithis and during Ashuchi days, plucking Tulasi is as atrocious as cutting one’s own head. Plucking Durva on Sundays, Tulasi on Raatris and Sandhyas, Dhatri Patra in Kartika Month, no person desirous of achieving Punya would never attempt. Nirmalya should not be removed on Dwadashi for Vishnu. In Purushardha Chintamani the Narada Vachana states that Panchamrita Snaana be done to Vishnu on Ekadashi and Ksheeraabhisheka be done on Dwadashi to certainly accomplish ‘Bhagavat Saayujya’. It is said that on Krishna Amavasya, Tulasi could be plucked for Deva Puja, Samidhas for homa purposes, and grass for cows. To Tulasi, one’s prayer should be Tulasyamrita na maasi sadatwam Keshava priye, Keshavaardhey vichinvaami Varadaa bhava shobhaney/ ( Devi Tulasi! You are the beloved of Keshava and possess the name of Amrita; I am plucking your leaves to perform Vishnu Puja; kindly bestow on me boons).Having said this, Dharma Sindhu states : Jaati Mallikaa Karaveera Ashokotpala champaka Bakula Bilwa Shami Kushaa etaani Sarva Devataanaam Vihitaani/ (All of these afore mentioned are univerasally accepted by Sarva Devataas) However, following are forbidden in the worship of specified Devatas: Paatala Shami patramcha Durgaayaah, Kunda Palaasha Bakula Durvaah Shivasya, Kumuda Tagare Suryasya, Tulasi Bhringaraaja tamaala patraani Shiva Durga yoh, Agasti Maadhavi lataa Lodhra pushmam Vishnu Shivayoh, Dhattoora Mandaarou Vishnu Suryayoh/ Following are the Priya Pushpas to Bhagavan Vishnu: Malati, Jaati, Ketaki, Mallika, Ashoka, Champaka, Punnaaga, Vakula, Utpala, Kunda, Karaveera , Paatala and Tagara Pushpas. Vishnu is fond of Apaamaarga, Bringaraaja, Khaadira, Shami, Durva, Kusha, Damanaka, Bilwaand Tulasi Patra too. Tulasi is the most precious possession of Vishnu. A person who offers a Maala of thousand Jaaji Pushpaas would be blessed with Kalpa Koti Shata Vishnu Puravaasa! If a person worships Vishnu with Mango maalaas with faith and dedication , he is certain to achieve Koti Go Daana Phala. Following are the Priya Pushpas to Maha Deva: Chaturnaam Pushpa Jaateenaam Gandhamaaghraati Shankarah, Arkasya Karaveerasya Bilvasya Vakulasya cha/ ( Shankara Maha Deva is fond of the Sugandha of Arka, Karaveera, Bilwa and Vakula); Worship to Shiva with Arka Pushpa would yield the Punya of Dasha Suvarna Daana; a thousand times higher phala is bestowed on some one who worships Shiva with the flowers of Dhattura, Shami Pushpa, Drona Pushpa and Nila Kamala. Shankara is stated to have intimated to Devi Parvati that him with Mani-Mukta- Pravaala and Ratnaas fade into insignificance compared to the Puja with Bilwa Patra as the latter destroys poverty and provides high fulfillment! Also whosoever offers to Shiva a thousand garlands of Nila Kamal would be blessed with Kalpa Koti Sahasra Shiva pura nivaasa! Shiva’s beloved flowers are Paatala, Mandaara, Apaamaarga, Jaati Champaka, Usheera, Tagara, Naaga Kesara, Punnaaga Japaa Kusuma, Mallika, Sahakaara and Kusumbha. Dhaattura and Kadamba pushpas are required to worship Shiva all over the night. If these Pushpas are unavailable a Bhakta could perform Annaabhisheka, or uncooked rice and wheat grains! The forbidden flowers are Bandhuka, Kunda, Atimukta, Ketaki, Kapitha, Bakula, Shirisha and Nimba. Devi Priya Pushpa: is Vakula. Dhaanya -anaam Sarva Patraischa Pushpairdeveem prapujayet, Durvaankurai Sindhu vaarairbandhukaagasti stambhavaih/ ( Dhaanya’s leaves/ flowers as also Durva, Kunda, Sinduvaara, Bandhuka and Agasta are also liked by her. Raajasuyaadi Yagna Phala: Bilwa Patra Pujana provides Rajasuya Phala, Karaveera Maala Puja gives Agnishtoma Phala, Vakula Maala Puja yields Vaajapeya yagna Phala. Puja to Surya and Ganesha would be on the lines of Vishnu Puja, except Tulasi is forbidden to Ganesha. This is amply described in many Puranas such as Brahma Vaivarta Purana.
Om Tat Sat
(Continued)
(My humble salutations to
the lotus feet of Sri Chandrasekharendra Saraswathi Mahaswamy ji and
also my humble greatulness to Brahmasree
Sreeman V D N Rao ji Philosophic Scholar for the collection)
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