13-05-2025
May 14, 2025
Sarada, Visalakshi, Kamakshi, Devi, Ambal, Amman, the many names by which our Jaganmata, Goddess, is known, is also representative of our country, especially since the very contour of the nation symbolises woman, with Kashmir being the sindoor, the most auspicious and powerful symbol for a devotee, said Damodara Dikshidhar.
A fount of kindness, slokas celebrate Her as Vahanti sindooram (she has sindoor on her forehead), lalate kashmiram. Her forehead is Kashmir and Her feet are Kanniyakumari, and She embraces all devotees and offers Her protection to those who repose faith in Her. It is Ambal who can offer peace , both inner and outer. Only when one has faith in Her can one develop inner strength required to face life's many challenges. Sastras tell us what pujas we should undertake and which deity to pray to, in order to emerge victorious.
Adi Sankara's disciple once asked him what one should do during times of danger. Adi Sankara said think of Devi and sing her verses. Questioning further, the sishya asked, what such smaranam (thinking of Her) would bring one. Adi Sankara said all devatas would then work for the devotee, since She is the primordial source of strength and She always responds to prayers, even Siva and Brahma have done so.
Chapter 12 of Devi Mahatmyam says, 'Sarvabadhavinirmukto dhanadhanyasutantvitah, manusyo matprasadena bhavaisyati na samsayah', meaning: those who repose faith in Her will be freed by Her grace from all afflictions and endowed with wealth, grain and progeny. The work further states that however difficult a war may be, it is a just one and if warriors and families pray to Her, She will assure them of complete victory. She is there for the poor and the rich, the high born and the ordinary. During difficult times, holding prayers and special pujas to Sakti, Ambal, Amman seeking Her protection and for the well being of all will be efficacious.
