Ayyappa Mandala Puja Dec 2009

December 25, 2009
LIVERMORE, CALIFORNIA

For the second year in a row, we had a grand finale to celebrate the Mandala season.

With the grace of Lord Ayyappa, the volunteers from AyyappaSamaaj -- http://www.ayyappasamaaj.webs.com, (Yahoo Groups: Ayyappasamaaj http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Ayyappasamaaj/join) performed Irumudi Puja for 25+ Ayyappas, manikandans, and maligaipurams at the Shiva Vishnu temple in Livermore, California to conclude the Ayyappa Mandala Puja for the year 2009 in a very grand manner. The function, held on December 25, 2009, was very well attended with over 300+ devotees participating in the event.

The people who took Irumudi fell into the following categories:

• They have been going elsewhere, like Washington DC, to fulfill their obligations - several devotees who had been going there for years decided to do it here.
• They have gone to Sabarimala before and wanted a way to continue their devotion

Irumudi Puja

Ayyappa Devotees visiting the Sabarimala Temple carry the Irumudi – a specially designed bag with two compartments. This ceremony is referred as Kettunira or Palli Kettu. The front portion of the bag is meant for keeping the puja articles and other offerings to the deities at Sabarimala. The other compartment is meant for holding the personal belongings.

The Irumudi Puja commenced with the traditional filling up of gheee into the mudra coconut. The mudra coconut is prepared ahead of the ghee filling ceremony by making a hole in the third (soft) eye of the coconut, draining the coconut water, and drying the inside of the coconut by showing it on a flame. After filling up the ghee, to the continous chanting of Sarana Ghoshams (http://pramki.blogspot.com/2008/12/sarana-ghosham.html) and Vazhinadai (http://pramki.blogspot.com/2008/12/vazhi-nadai.html) verses, the coconut filled with the ghee was sealed with a cork. Vibhuti, Sandal paste, and Kumkum were then applied to the Ghee filled coconut.

The other main contents of the front compartment of the Irumudi is the rice. All the devotees attending the function came in a procession to put rice into the Irumudi bag. A one dollar coin (kanikkai for Kuladhaivam) was placed into this rice bag. The symbolism of the kannikkai is worth mention. Different people have different gods as their Kula Dheivam, ruling diety for their family, who protects the family. When Ayyappa devotees undertake the pilgrimage to Sabarimala, Lord Ayyappa takes over the role of being the Kula Dheivam once the Ayyappas enter into Gods own country, also known as Ayyappa's Poongavanam. The kanikkai is safely retained by the devotees and is deposited as an offering to their kula dheivam at the end of the Sabarimala pilgrimage.

All the other Dhravyas required for performing Abhisekham for the lord, such as milk, honey, vibhuti, sandal, turmeric, kumkum, agarbathi, rose water, and betel leaves were then packed into the Irumudi bag. The Irumudi bag was tied by the senior Ayyappas who were there to volunteer for the event. The Irumudi is extremely sacred and the devotees protect its sanctity by making sure it does not touch the ground and is always handled with respect.
The priest came and offered prayers to the Irumudi, praying for the welfare of the pilgrim who is undertaking the pilgrimage. All the Ayyappas then carried the Irumudi bag on their head, and did a pradakshanam of the temple to the chanting of Sarana Ghoshams and Vazhinadai.

The Kanni Ayyappas planted an arrow (Saram) in the Saramkuthi that was setup at the event. After completing the symbolic pilgrimage, the senior Ayyappas then assisted the Ayyappa devotees with unpacking the Irumudi bag and collected all the dhravyas for performing Abhisekham on Lord Ayyappa. The abhisekham was conducted using the following contents of the Irumudi:

• Ghee abhisekham
• Milk Abhisekham
• Chandana Abhisekham
• Bhasma (vibhooti) Abhisekham
• Panchamrutha Abhisekham (with dates, honey, sugar candy(kalkandu), raisins, jaggery)

Witnessing the abhisekham with the dhravyas carried in the Irumudi is an enchanting experience for all the devotees seeking the blessings of Lord Ayyappa.

Thalapolli

We had Thalapolli for our Lord Ayyappa to the accompaniment of "Chenda", the traditional music in all Kerala temples. Almost 100 women and children participated in the Thalapolli. Thalappoli, a ceremonial procession, is a significant item in most of the festivals in Kerala In this ritual, women or young girls carry thalam, which literally means plate, in their hands. Thalam is filled with rice, flowers and a lighted lamp. Thalappoli is considered a symbol of prosperity. The lord Ayyappa comes in a procession to bless the devotees to the chanting of Sarana Ghoshams and Vazhinadai.

MahaPrasadam

The special lunch for this event was prepared by the volunteers of AyyappaSamaaj (http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Ayyappasamaaj/join with sponsorship from Dosai Place and Mayuri

Meaning of Tatwamasi

Tat Twam Asi = Thou art you. This word of message is from the Chando gyopanishat, means “That is you” The diffusion of the word is Thath. Thwam. Asi. Tat means that, Twam means you, and Asi means is.

When we stand in front of the mirror, and point out to that, the reflection of us will also point at us. The thing which is in front of a mirror is the image and the idol of Iswara is called image. The image of god sees the reflection of us on the mirror of the world. The reflection on the mirror has no life or existence and it is not real. But we feel that it has life and existence and it is real.

This phenomenon, which make us feel the nothingness as the fullness and it is, according to the spiritual sciences, called Maya. Likewise, all the beings reflecting on the mirror of world feel that they are existing and moving. It is not only us but even the universe has no reality. The god is the only real one. All are its manifestations. It is only the reflection of God and the reality of it is felt as you and yourself. Tat is a consciousness of the oneself and it is also the God itself.

How the principle of ‘Tatwamasi’ is reflected in the worldly life, since having different kinds of problems arising? As per the laws of creation of universe the God has not created any difficulties or grievances or problems. But how a lot of problems occur in the worldly life? The reason for that, is not other thing, but the thought of your ‘self’, which you cannot avoid anyway. It is the only one thing that is ‘you’, which creates all the problems from the within of you. For example the grandeur of the deer reflects on its horns. But it is that horn which becomes the reason for its own death, by hanging on any creepers, binding the branched horn accidentally anywhere in the forest. If we ask whether the pride of the ‘self’ feeling of one man, is created by the God. May be, but the vicious side of it is not by God.

The reality beyond the experiences of our life reveals the truth saying ‘Thou art you’. Otherwise the feeling of your self or ego is really the Tat i.e god. If you felt your ego, that is your innermost soul or consciousness or Iswara. It is the man’s own desire for existence creates impediments in the flow of life and unfomfortfulness. It is the ‘you’ creates problems against your life; think ‘Tatwamasi’.

Provide light to destroy shade. To avoid darkness or shade of all the difficulties and grievances from your life which are created by your own ego, self or pride, you have to go to the light of God. For this satisfaction all the people arrive at the light of Sri Ayyappa to destroy his own ahanta, the egotism and all will end in bliss.

Nov 15, 2009: Grand Celebrations to Kick Off Ayyappa Mandala Season 2009

Dear Devotees,

The Shiva Vishnu temple in Livermore, California along with Ayyappa Samaaj (http://www.ayyappasamaaj.org/; YahooGroups: Ayyappasamaaj -- Click here to join Ayyappasamaaj: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Ayyappasamaaj/join) kicked off the start of the Ayyappa Mandala Puja in a very grand manner on November 15, 2009.

The function was very well attended. We had 200+ devotees participating in the event.

The 18 steps for Lord Ayyappa was renovated and there were special decorations around the 18 steps. Check out the photos from the event on Picasa.


The puja started with Sankalpam and Abhishekham for Lord Ayyappa (with milk, curd, ghee, panchamrutham, Sandal, Turmeric, tender coconut water, and Bhasman) This was followed by a bhajans during which Lord Ayyappa was decorated and mounted on an elephant in preparation for the thalapolli procession to the chant of Vazhinada. The Thalapolli for our Lord Ayyappa was conducted to the accompaniment of "Chenda", the traditional music in all Kerala temples. Over 60 women and children participated in the Thalapolli. Thalappoli, a ceremonial procession, is a significant item in most of the festivals in Kerala In this ritual, women or young girls carry thalam, which literally means plate, in their hands. Thalam is filled with rice, flowers and a lighted lamp. Thalappoli is considered a symbol of prosperity

We then had bhajans for Lord Ayyappa that was sung in many languages with participation from people of all age groups. This was followed by Harihara Putra Shata Naamavalli (Archana). Many "Ayyappas" commenced their vratam by wearing the Thulasi Mala during the function. Many more "ayyappas" are scheduled to wear the Mala on the following weekends. The puja concluded with the singing of the traditional Padi Paattu and Harivarasanam.

There were over 30 volunteers from Bay Area Ayyappasamaaj who actively participated in the preparation and smooth conduct of the proceedings of the the puja.

Over 200 devotees ate the special Maha Prasadam (Vegetable Sambar Rice, Potato Curry, Vada, Curd Rice and Chakkara Pongal) that was prepared at the temple.

Ayyappasamaaj also released a bhajan booklet containing transliterated songs from Tamil, Malayalam, and Telugu songs. If you are interested in a personal copy, please send en email to ayyappasamaaj@gmail.com. You can check out the table of contents in the link http://www.ayyappasamaaj.org/.

We will be having weekly bhajans on Saturdays till the end of the Mandalam season. On December 25, 2009, we will have the conclusion of the mandalam celebration by performing Irumudi Puja followed by all the program items described above.

We invite all devotees to come to Livermore temple to get the blessings of Lord Ayyappa.

Swami Saranam!

Prasad

Sarana Ghoshams (Periya Paadhai)

The following Saranams provide a representation of the key landmarks and places we trek on the periya-paadhai (long route from Erumeli to Sannidhaaanam).

Repeat Saranam Ayyappa after each verse.
1. Swamiye Sharanam Ayyappa
2. Sadhguru Nathane
3. Sachidananda Sathguru Murthiye
4. Ennishtta Deivame
5. Engal Kula Deivame
6. Aekaantha Vaasiye
7. Thani Vazhi Thunaivare
8. Sevipporkku Aanandha Moorthiye
9. Villali Veerane
10. Veera Manikandane
11. Pulippaal Konarndha Punniyane
12. Acchan Kovil Arase
13. Aariyankaavu Ayyave
14. Kulathu Puzhai Balagane
15. Erumeli Vaazhgiraatha Saasthaave
16. Pettai Thullum Saasthaave
17. Vettaikkoar Magane
18. Kotta Padigale
19. Vavar Swamiye
20. Perur Thodu Thaavalame
21. Thalappaarai Koattaiye
22. Kaalakatti Ashramame
23. Azhutha Nadhiye
24. Azhutha Nadhi Theerame
25. Azhutha Nadheesane
26. Azhutha Maede
27. Kallidung Kunre
28. Injippaarai Koattaiye
29. Udumpparai Koattaiye
30. Mukkuzhi Thavalame
31. Ilavan Thaavalame
32. Karivalaan Thode
33. Puducheri Aare
34. Karimala Aettrame
35. Aettram Kadiname
36. Aettri Thara Vaendum Bhagavaane
37. Karimalai Mugade
38. Karimalai Bhagavathiye
39. Karimalai Irakkame
40. Irakkan Kadiname
41. Irakki Thara Vaendum Bhagavaane
42. Pamba Nadhi Theerame
43. Pamba Nadheesane
44. Pambaiyin Sisuve
45. Pambaiyin Theerthame
46. Pambaiyil Snaaname
47. Pambaiyin Vilakke
48. Pambaiyin Satthiye
49. Pambaiyin Ganapathiye
50. Pandhala Raaja Kumaarane
51. Valiyaana Vattame
52. Cheriyaana Vattame
53. Neelamalai Aettrame
54. Dharma Peedame
55. Appacchi Maede
56. Ippachi Kuzhiye
57. Sabhari Peedame
58. Sree Rama Paadhame
59. Saranguthi Aale
60. Swamigaludaiya Sannidhaanangale
61. Swamigaludaiya Ponnu Padhinettu Padigale
62. Padhinettam Padi Kaavalare
63. Padhinettaam Padi Karuppanna Swamiye
64. Sangili Bhootha Naadha Swamiye
65. Valiya Kadutha Swamiye
66. Kocchu Kadutha Swaamiye
67. Karuppaayi Amma Deviye
68. Vavar Swamiye
69. Dhega Balam Tharanum Bhagavaane
70. Paadha Balam Tharanum Bhagavaane
71. Malai Aettri Tharanum Bhagavaane
72. Padi Aettri Tharanum Bhagavaane
73. Swamigaludaya Sannidhaaname
74. Swamugaludaya Dhwaja Sthambhame
75. Asvaa Roodare
76. Gaja Roodare
77. Swamigaludaya Karpoora Aazhiye
78. Swamigaludaya Bali Peedangale
79. Kannimeela Maga Ganapathi Bhagavaane
80. Naagaraaja Prabhuve
81. Swamugaludaya Dhivya Swaroopame
82. Swamigaludaya Dhivya Dharisaname
83. Neyyabhisheka Piriyane
84. Pushbhaabhisheka Piriyane
85. Paanaga Piriyane
86. Panjaamritha Piriyane
87. Payasanna Piriyane
88. Ney Thaengaay Piriyane
89. Naivediya Piriyane
90. Irumudi Piriyane
91. Athirvedi Piriyane
92. Kannimudi Piriyane
93. Sarana Ghosha Piriyane
94. Vedha Ghosha Piriyane
95. Saama Ghaana Piriyane
96. Karpoora Piriyane
97. Karpoora Jothiye
98. Kaantha Malai Jothiye
99. Jothi Swaroopane
100. Dhabajwaala Moorthiye
101. Chinmudra Dhaariye
102. Neela Vasthra Dhaariye
103. Nithya Bhrahmachaariye
104. Brumadhya Vaasare
105. Hrudhayakamala Vaasare
106. Ellaam Valla Iraivane
107. Aezhaikku Arul Puriyum Eesane
108. Aezhai Pangaalane
109. Aethilaarkku Uttra Thunaiye
110. Eelikkai Aayuthane
111. Pizhai Porutharulla Vendum Deivame
112. Nalla Suga Vaazhkai Alikka Vendum Swamiye
113. Enrum Engalukku Tunaiyaay Irunthu Vazhi Nadathi Chella Vendum Aandavare
114. Kaathu Rakshikkanum Bhagavaane
115. Swamigaludaiya Bhasma Kulangale
116. Swamigaludaiya Thiru Naagangale
117. Swamigaludaiya Parivaarangale
118. Swamigaludaiya Nagaraajakkale
119. Maligapurathamma Devi Loka Manja Maathaave
120. Swamigaludaiya Poongavanangale
121. Ural Kuzhi Theerthame
122. Kumbalanthode
123. Kavalaiyai Theerppavane
124. Kadanai Theerppavane
125. Annadhaana Prabhuve
126. Devi Sabhai Vasare
127. Sarva Klesa Naasa Swamiye
128. Sarvaabheeshta Pradhayakare
129. Sarva Roga Nivarana Om Dhanvathiri Moorthiye
130. Siddhi Vinaayaka Sivasakthi Vadivelan Thambiye
131. Samasta Abharathangalaiyum Poruthu Kaathu Rakshitarula Vaendum Bhagavaane
132. Om SwamiyeSwamiye Saranam Ayyappa

Nov 15 - Dec 25 2009: Ayyappa Mandala Puja: Livermore Shiva Vishnu Temple

Ayyappasamaaj of San Francisco Bay Area (http://www.ayyappasamaaj.org/) will grandly celebrate its Annual Ayyappa Mandala Puja at the The Shiva Vishnu Temple, Livermore between Nov 15th and Dec 25th.

With the grace of Lord Ayyappa we are ready to begin this year's Mandalam season on Nov 15th. We invite you, your family, and your friends to come participate in the planned devotional activities and receive the grace of Lord Ayyappa. If you are planning to wear mala this season to observe viratham and/ or take Irumudi, please let us know in advance.
The months of Kaartika / Vrishchika, Maargazhi / Dhanur are most auspicious for Lord Ayyappa, during which period Mandala Puja is celebrated. Devotees observe traditional austerities (vratham), which normally start from the first day of Kaartika/ Vrishchikam (November 15). Devotees initiate the vratham by wearing a Thulasi or a Rudraksha mala. After 41 days (on December 25th) the devotees end their vratham by carrying Irumudi and removing the mala. (Kids can observe short vratham days by wearing mala on December 19th and end it on December 25th). Irumudi is a cloth bag with two compartments containing offerings for the Lord.

Nov 15 5pm - Mandalam begins with Sankalpam, Mala Dharana, Abishekam, Archana, and Bhajans followed by Dinner Prasadam
Dec 19 5 PM Mala Dharana for kids followed by Bhajans and Aarathi
Nov 21, 28, Dec 5, 12 - Weekly Bhajan on Saturdays at 6pm followed by Aarti –
Dec 25 9 AM - Mandalam ends with Irumudi Puja, Abishekam, Archana, and Bhajans followed by Lunch Prasadam

This is an excellent opportunity for children to learn Ayyappa bhajans and sing them during the Puja. We will be performing Irumudi Puja on December 25th. Last year we had over 20 Ayyappas do the Irumudi Puja (including over 10 children)

- Please participate with your family on Nov 15 and Dec 25
- Please bring your children to learn Ayyappa bhajans on Saturdays (Nov 21, 28, Dec 5, 12)
- Please forward this email with the attached flyer to at least five of your friends and family. Ask them to sign for Ayyappasamaaj Yahoo Groups. (http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Ayyappasamaaj/join)
- If you are interested in taking vrutham (deeksha) this year, please contact us immediately. We can provide you with Thulasi Mala to begin your vrutham. Several other activities are planned as well and we'll update you as we go along.

Please help spread the word by forwarding this to your friends.For more information, please visit the temple web site at http://livermoretemple.org org

For information call: Prasad Ramakrishnan (408) 705-8172, Ravi Shankar (650) 302-3612, Sudhakar Deevi (925) 518-4521, Manoj Empranthiri (408) 309-0695, Usha Namboodri (925) 803-1249

To join our mailing list, please sign up for our Yahoo Group (groups.yahoo.com/group/ayyappasamaaj/join)

Monthly Ayyappa Abhisekham - Livermore Shiva Vishnu Temple

Dear devotees,

We will be having monthly abhisekham for Lord Ayyappa at our Shiva Vishnu temple in Livermore, CA starting this July 25, 2009.

Shiva-Vishnu Temple requests all Devotees to participate and get the blessings of
Lord Ayyappa


Uttara Phalguni days in 2009

Saturday, 25 July, 2009
Saturday, 22 August, 2009
Friday, 18 Sept, 2009
Friday, 16 Oct, 2009
Thursday, 12 Nov, 2009
Wednesday, 9 Dec, 2009

Dates for 2010 will be announced in December

Sat, Sun Mon – Fri Program
5:00 PM 6:30 PM Sankalpam, Abhisekham, and Puja
5:45 PM 7:15 PM Bhajan Starts
7:00 PM 8:00 PM Bhajan Ends with Aarti and Teertyha Prasadam


Suggested Donation:
o Archana - $7
o Abhishekam for one time - $51
o Abhishekam every month for one year - $301

Shiva -Vishnu Temple at Livermore is celebrating Maha Kumbhabhishekam in 2010
Please plan on attending this important religious event

Rudra - Final Stotras

Rudra - Final Stotras


Tryambakam yajaamahe sugandhim pushtivardhanam,
Oorvaaru kamiva bandhanan mruthyo rmuksheeya maamruthaath. 1

We salute and respect,
Him who is naturally scented,
Him who looks after his devotes by mercy,
And Him who has three eyes.
And pray and request,
To move us away from the catch of death,
Like the cucumber from its stalk,
And firmly put us in the path of salvation.

Yo Rudro agnaii yo apsu ya oushadeeshu,
Yo Rudro viswaa bhuvanaa aavivesa tasmai Rudraaya namo asthu. 2

Let our salutations be offered to that Rudra,
Who is in fire,
Who is in water,
Who is in plants and trees,
And who is in everything in the world.

Thamushtuhi ya swishu sudhanwaa yo viwasya kshayathi beshajasya,
Yashwamahe soumanasaaya rudram namobhir devaasuram duvasya 3

Pray and salute him,
Who has the best arrows,
Who has the best bow,
Who is the home of medicines,
That cure all the world’s diseases,
And who destroys asuras.
We salute that Rudra,
For making our minds pure.

Aayam me hastho bhagavaanayam me bhagavattara,
Ayam me viswa beshajo ayam shivaabhimarsana. 4


This my hand is my God,
This is higher than God to me,
This is the medicine for all sickness to me.
For this touches Shiva and worships him.

Ye the sahasramayutham pasaa mruthyo marthyaya hanthave,
Thaan yagnasya maayayaa sarvaanava yajamahe,
Mrutyave swaaha mrutyave swaaha. 5

Oh God who destroys the world.
I pray thee to keep away from me,
The thousands of ropes that you have,
Which is used by you to kill all beings,
Due to the power of my prayers.
This offering of fire is offered to death,
This offering of fire is offered to death.

OM namo bhagavathe rudraaya vishnave mruturme paahi,
Praanaanaam grandhi rasi rudro vishaanthaka
Thenaa annena aapya swa. 6


Om, my salutations to God,
Who is everywhere,
And to the Rudra
Let not death come near me.
You Rudra who lives in the junction of the soul and senses,
I pray to you who destroy everything, to be within me,
And due to that be satisfied,
With the food that I take as offering.

Om Shanthi ,Shanthi, Shanthi

Let there be peace, Let there be peace, Let there be peace

Ithi Sri Krishna yajur vedeeya taithireeya samhithaayam
Chathurtha Kande panchama prapaataka.

Thus ends the fifth chapter of the fourth canto of Taithireeya

collection of Krishna Yajur Veda.

Rudram

Rudram - First Anuvaaka

Rudram - Second Anuvaaka

Rudram - Third Anuvaaka

Rudram - Fourth Anuvaaka

Rudram - Fifth Anuvaaka

Rudram - Sixth Anuvaaka

Rudram - Seventh Anuvaaka

Rudram - Eigth Anuvaaka

Rudram - Ninth Anuvaaka

Rudram - Tenth Anuvaaka

Rudram - Eleventh Anuvaaka

Rudra - Final Stotras

Rudram - Eleventh Anuvaaka

Eleventh Anuvaaka


Sahasraani sahasraso ye Rudra adhi bhoomyaam.
Teshaam sahasra yojane avadhanvaani thanmasi 11.1

We request thee oh Rudra,
To order your soldiers who are in thousands,
To keep their thousands of weapons,
Which are of thousand kinds,
Thousand miles away from us.

Asmin mahatyarnave anthareekshe bhavaa adhi. 11.2

In this vast sea of ether,
Whichever Rudra’s soldiers do exist,

Neelagreeva sithi kkantaa sarvaa adha kshama charaa 11.3

And those soldiers, who do exist,
Whose half side of neck is blue,
And the other half is white.
And live under the earth in Paathaala*.

Neelagreeva sithi kkantaa diva rudra upasrithaa 11.4

And those soldiers, who do exist,
Whose half side of neck is blue,
And the other half is white.
And who have attained heavens.

Ye vruksheshu saspinjaraa neelagreeva vilohithaa 11.5

And those soldiers, who do exist,
Who are on trees with colour of new grass,
With neck which is blue,
And whose body is especially red.

Ye bhoothanaam adhi pathayo visikkahsa kapardhina 11.6

And those soldiers ,who do exist,
Who are captains of the soldiers,
With some of them wearing the tuft,
And some with no hairs,

Ye anneshu vividhyanthi paathreshu pibatho janaan 11.7

And those soldiers ,who do exist,
Who trouble those people,
Who take food and drink from vessels

Ye padhaam padhii rakshaya Iilaa brudaa yavyudha. 11.8

And those soldiers, who do exist,
Who protect people who walk in the path,
And also protect those people taking all other paths,
And who take the form of those who save by giving food,
And who fight with enemies

Ye theerthani pracharanthi srukaavantho nishangina 11.9

And those soldiers ,who do exist,
Who carry sharp weapons,
And also those who carry swords,
And also those who travel protecting sacred waters.

Ya eetha bandascha bhooyaamscha diso rudraa vithasthire
Teshaam sahasra yojane avadhanvaani thanyasi. 11.10

We request all these your soldiers,
And also all those others wherever they are,
Spread in different directions,
To keep their bows,
Thousands miles away,
After removing the string.

Namo rudrebhyo ye prithvyaam ye anthareekshe,
Ye divi yesham annam vatho varshmishadha sthebhyo dasa,
Praceerdasa dakshina dasa pradeecheer daso udhiceer daso urdhwaa,
Sthebhyo namasthe no mrudayanthu the yam dwishmo,
Yascha no dweshti tham vo janme dadhaami. 11.11


My salutations to all those soldiers of Rudra,
Who are on earth,
Who are in the sky,
Who are in the worlds above,
And to those whom air and food,
Become weapons for killing beings.
I salute them with ten fingers,
I salute them facing the east,
I salute them facing south,
I salute them facing west,
I sauté them facing north,
I salute them facing above,
My salutations to all of them,
Let them grant happiness to me.
I would deliver those of my enemies,
And those who consider me as my enemy,
In to their wide-open mouth.



Rudram
Rudram - First Anuvaaka
Rudram - Second Anuvaaka
Rudram - Third Anuvaaka
Rudram - Fourth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Fifth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Sixth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Seventh Anuvaaka
Rudram - Eigth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Ninth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Tenth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Eleventh Anuvaaka
Rudra - Final Stotras

Rudram - Tenth Anuvaaka

Tenth Anuvaaka

Draape Andha saspathe daridhra neela lohitha
Eeshaam purushaanam esham pasunaam maa
bhermaro mo eshaam kincha namamath. 10.1

Oh God who punishes the sinners in hell,
Oh God, who gives food to devotees,
Oh God, who is the form of light,
Oh God who has a black neck and red body,
Please do not give fear to these beings,
Please do not give death to these beings,
And please do not make any of these beings sick.

Yaa the rudra shivaa thanu shivaa viswaaha beshaji
Shivaa rudrasya beshaji taya no mruda jeevase 10.2

Oh, Rudhra, God of the world,
That medicine which cures the pain of birth and rebirth,
That medicine which mixes with you and makes all happy,
Is your holy form that is one with thine consort Shakthi,
And please bless us all with that form,
To make us live as we ought to live.

Imama rudraaya thavase kapardhinee kshyadweeraaya
Prabharaamahe mathim,
Yadhaa na sama sad dwipadhe chatushpadhe viswam pushtam graame
Asmin aathuram. 10.3

Oh Rudhra, God of the world,
Who wears dried tuft of hair,
Who is the sage who meditates,
And who kills his enemies,
Make mine wavering thought fixed on thee,
So that good will befall on us people and our cows,
And all beings would grow healthy without fail,
And are never ever get diseased.

Mruda no rudra thano mayaskrudhee kshyadweerayaa,
Namasaa vidhema the.Yachcham cha yoscha manu rayaaje
Pithaa tadha syama thava rudra preeneethou. 10.4

Oh, Rudra God of the world,
Make us all happy,
Add to our chances of salvation,
And diminish the strength of sinners,
And we will pray you with our salute.
And again pray to thee,
To give us the pleasure in this world,
And salvation in the other world,
Got by the father of the world Prajapathi , by your grace.

Maa no mahantha mutha maa no arbhakam
Maa na ukshantha-mutha maa na ukshitham.
Maa no vadhee pitharam motha maatharam priyaa maa
Nasthanuvo rudhra reerishaa. 10.5

Oh Rudhra, God of the world,
Never give trouble to our elders.
Never give trouble to our children,
Never give trouble to our lads,
Never give trouble to our children in the womb,
Never give trouble to our fathers,
Never give trouble to our mothers,
And never give trouble to our body, which is dear to us.

Maanaasthoke thanaye maa na aayushee maa no goshu
Maa no asweshu reerisha. Veeranmaa no rudra
Bhami tho avadhir havish mantho namasaa vidhema the. 10.6

Oh Rudhra, God of the world,
Never cause sorrow to our children and sons,
Never diminish our span of life,
Never cause sorrow to our cows,
Never cause sorrow to our horses,
And do not destroy in anger our efficient servants,
And we would come with holy offerings and salute you.

Aarathe gogna utha poorushagne ksyadweeraaya
Sumnamasthe the asthu.
Rakshaa cha no adhi cha deva brahmadhaa cha na
Sarma yachcha dwibarhaa. 10.7

Oh Rudhra, God of the world,
Let your fearful aspect be away,
From killing of beings,
From killing of people,
And our efficient servants.
And let your graceful aspect,
Be with us.
Oh God, please protect us,
Please talk to us with compassion,
And please give us the pleasure of this and other worlds,
That you posses.

Sthuhi srutham gartha sadam yuvaanaam mrugascha bheema
Upahathnumugram
Mruda jarithre rudra stavaa no anyanthe
Asmannnnivapanthu senaa 10.8

Oh mind always think,
Of that Rudra who stays in the lotus of our heart,
Of that Rudra who is young,
Of that Rudra who is powerful in killing of enemies,
Of that Rudra who is as fearful as a lion,
And of that Rudra who is full of fame.
And Oh Rudra, who is being praised,
Give immortal pleasures to this mortal body,
And let your chief soldiers,
Kill our enemies.
Who are different from us.

Parino rudrasya hethur varnakthu pari tweshasya
Durmathiragayo
Ava sthiraa madavadbhayasthanushva meedvasthokaaya
Thanayaya mrudaya. 10.9

Let the weapon of Rudra move away from us,
And the fearful thought of Rudra,
Which shines in anger,
And which is capable of destroying sinners,
Also move away from us.
Oh Rudra who grants all wishes of devotees,
Please make thine fearful anger,
Which is stable in destroying thine enemies,
Little soft at us, who praise,
And salute thee by fire sacrifices,
And please give pleasure to our sons and their sons.

Meedushtama sivathama shivo na sumanaa bhava
Parame vruksha aayudham nidhaaya kruthim vasaan
Aachara pinaaka bibradhaagahi. 10.10

Oh Rudra who is the greatest among those who grant wishes,
Oh Rudra who has a pleasant mien,
Please become one who does good to us,
And become one with a good mind.
Please keep thine weapons on the trees,
And come to us wearing the hide of tiger.
Please bring along thine bow pinaaka,
As an ornament.

Vikiridha vilohitha namasthe asthu bhagava,
Yaasthe sahasram hothayo anya mannibhavanthu tha. 10.11

Oh Rudra who throws riches at us,
And oh Rudra who is red coloured,
Let our salutations be with you.
Let your thousands of weapons,
Destroy our enemies who are different from us.

Sahasrani sahasradhaa baahu hosthava hethaya
Thaasameesano bhagava parachinaa mukhaa krudhi. 10.12

Oh Rudra in your hands are weapons,
In thousands and of thousand types.
Oh God who is all powerful,
Make their sharp ends not attack us.


Rudram
Rudram - First Anuvaaka
Rudram - Second Anuvaaka
Rudram - Third Anuvaaka
Rudram - Fourth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Fifth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Sixth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Seventh Anuvaaka
Rudram - Eigth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Ninth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Tenth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Eleventh Anuvaaka
Rudra - Final Stotras

Rudram - Ninth Anuvaaka

Ninth Anuvaaka


Nama ireenyaya cha prapadhyaya cha 9.1.1

Salutations to him who is of the form of one who lives in arid land and to him who walks the paths.

Nama kimsilaaya cha kshyanaaya cha 9.1.2

Salutations to him who is of the form of one who lives in dry land and to him who is of the form of one who lives in good places.

Nama kapardhine cha pulasthave cha 9.1.3

Salutations to him who has matted hair and to him who stands in front to protect his devotees.

Namo goshtyaya cha gruhyaya cha 9.1.4

Salutations to him who is of the form of one who lives in stable and to him who lives in homes.

Namas thalpyaya cha gehyaya cha 9.1.5

Salutations to him who sits on the cot and to him who lives in ornamental houses.

Nama kaatyaya cha gahwereshtaaya cha 9.1.6

Salutations to him who lives in thorny bushes and who lives in caves.

Namo hridayaaya cha niveshpyaya cha 9.1.7

Salutations to him who is in deep still waters and to him who is in snow drops.

Namo pamswayaya cha rajasysyaya cha 9.1.8

Salutations to him who is in speck of dust and who is in the dust from mud.

Namo sushkyaya cha harithyayaya cha 9.1.9

Salutations to him who is dried piece of wood and who is in wet stem.

Namo lopyaya cha ulopyaya cha 9.1.10

Salutations to him who is in firm floor and who is on turf.

Nama oorvyayaya cha soormyaya cha 9.2.1

Salutations to him who is on flat land and to him who is on tides in the river.

Nama parnyaya cha parnasadhyaya cha 9.2.2

Salutations to him who is in green leaves and who is in dried leaves.

Namo apaguramanaya cha apignathe cha 9.2.3

Salutations to him who is armed and to him who kills his enemies.

Nama akkidathe cha prakkidathe cha 9.2.4

Salutations to him who troubles a little and to him who troubles most.

Namo va kirikebhyp devanam hrudayebhyo 9.2.5

Salutations to him who showers riches on his devotees and to him who exists in hearts of devas.

Namo viksheenakebhyo 9.2.6

Salutations to your deathless form in the hearts of devas.

Namo vichinvathkebhyo 9.2.7

Salutations to your form, which lives in hearts of, devas and grants all the wishes.

Namo anirhathebhyo 9.2.8

Salutations to your form, which lives in hearts of, devas and destroys sins.

Namo aamivatkebhya 9.2.9

Salutations to your form, which lives in hearts of, devas and travels everywhere.



Rudram
Rudram - First Anuvaaka
Rudram - Second Anuvaaka
Rudram - Third Anuvaaka
Rudram - Fourth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Fifth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Sixth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Seventh Anuvaaka
Rudram - Eigth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Ninth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Tenth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Eleventh Anuvaaka
Rudra - Final Stotras

Rudram - Eigth Anuvaaka

Eigth Anuvaaka

Nama somaaya cha rudhraaya cha 8.1.1

Salutations to him who is the consort of Uma and to him who removes sorrow.

Namas thamraaya cha arunaaya cha 8.1.2

Salutations to him who is of the copper colour of the dawn and to him who is of the colour of sun after sunrise.

Nama sankhaya cha pasupathaye cha 8.1.3

Salutations to him who adds pleasure to us and to him who protects all beings.

Nama ugraaya cha bheemaaya cha 8.1.4

Salutations to him who is angry and to him who is fearful.

Namo agrevaghaaya cha dhoorevaghaaya cha 8.1.5

Salutations to him who leads and kills his enemies and to him who talks from a distance.

Namo hanthre cha haneeyase cha 8.1.6

Salutations to him who kills his enemies and to him who destroys everything towards the end.

Namo vrikshebhyo harikeshebhyo 8.1.7

Salutations to him who is the tree with green hairs of karma.

Namstharaaya 8.1,8

Salutations to him who is the star in the form of Om.

Nama sambhave mayo bhave cha 8.1,9

Salutations to him who appears as pleasure of this world and to him who appears as pleasure of salvation.

Nama sankaraaya cha mayaskaraaya cha 8.1.10

Salutations to him who gives the pleasure of this world and to him who gives the pleasure of the other worlds.

Nama shivaya cha shiva tharaaya cha 8.1.11

Salutations to him who is in the form of good things and to him who makes others who attain him good.

Namas theerthaaya cha koolyaya cha 8.2.1

Salutations to him who is the holy water and to him who is worshipped near the streams.

Nama paaryaya cha vaaryaya cha 8.2.2

Salutations to him who is being praised by great souls after salvation and to him who grants all that one wants in this world.

Nama pratharanaaya cha uttaranaaya cha 8.2.3

Salutations to him who helps us cross the river of sins and to him who lifts us to salvation.

Nama aathaaryaya cha aalaadhyaya cha 8.2.4

Salutations to him who makes soul enter this world and to him who encourages soul to enjoy the fruit of actions.

Nama sashpyaya cha phenyaya cha 8.2.5

Salutations to him who is in the grass by the riverside and who is in the foam of the river.

Nama sikathyaya cha pravaahyaya cha 8.2.6

Salutations to him who is in the sand by the side of the river and who is in the running water of the river.


Rudram
Rudram - First Anuvaaka
Rudram - Second Anuvaaka
Rudram - Third Anuvaaka
Rudram - Fourth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Fifth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Sixth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Seventh Anuvaaka
Rudram - Eigth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Ninth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Tenth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Eleventh Anuvaaka
Rudra - Final Stotras

Rudram - Seventh Anuvaaka

Seventh Anuvaaka

Namo dunthubhyaya cha hananyaya cha 7.1.1

Salutations to him who is of the sound of a big drum and to him who is of the form of the drumstick.

Namo drushnave cha brumruchaaya cha 7.1.2

Salutations to him who never runs away from war and to him who examines the spy information about the enemy.

Namo dhootaaya cha prahitaaya cha 7.1.3

Salutations to him who is the messenger and who is the servant.

Namo nishangine cha ishuthimathe cha 7.1,4

Salutations to him who has the sword and to him who has the quiver.

Nama stheeshneshave cha aayudhine cha 7.1.5

Salutations to him who has sharp arrows and to him who has other weapons.

Nama swaayudhaaya cha sudhanvane cha 7.1.6

Salutations to him who has best weapons and to him who has good bow.

Nama shruthyaya cha pathyaya cha 7.1.7

Salutations to him who walks in footpaths and to him who travels in wide roads.

Nama katayaya cha neepyaya cha 7.1.8

Salutations to him who is in canal water to him who is in streams.

Nama soodhyaya cha sarasyaya cha 7.1.9

Salutations to him who is in water of a pool and to him who is in the water of a lake.

Nama nadhyaya cha vaisanthaaya cha 7.1.10

Salutations to him who is in the water of river and to him who is in the water of the pond.

Nama koopyaya cha vatyaya cha 7.2.1

Salutations to him who is in the water of well and to him who is in the water of spring.

Namo varshayaya cha avarshayaya cha 7.2.2

Salutations to him who is in rain water and who is also in places it does not rain.

Namo meghyaya cha vidhuyutyaya cha 7.2.3

Salutations to him who is in the clouds and who is also in lightning.

Namo idhreeyaya cha aathapthaya cha 7.2.4

Salutations to him who is in the form of clear sky of autumn and to him who is in the form of rain and sun.

Namo vaathyaya cha reshmiyaya cha 7.2.5

Salutations to him who is in the form of rainy storm and to him who is in the form of dry hoarse wind.

Namo vasthavyaya cha vaasthupaya cha 7.2.6

Salutations to him who is in materials of the house and to him who is the vaasthu purusha guarding the house.



Rudram
Rudram - First Anuvaaka
Rudram - Second Anuvaaka
Rudram - Third Anuvaaka
Rudram - Fourth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Fifth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Sixth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Seventh Anuvaaka
Rudram - Eigth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Ninth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Tenth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Eleventh Anuvaaka
Rudra - Final Stotras

Rudram - Sixth Anuvaaka

Sixth Anuvaaka

Namo jyeshtayaa cha kanishtaya cha. 6.1.1

Salutations to him who is elder and to him who is younger

Namo poorvajaya cha aparajaaya cha 6.1.2

Salutations to him who is born before and to him who is born after

Namo madhyamaya cha apakalpaya cha 6.1.3

Salutations to him to him who is middle aged and to him who is too young

Namo jaganyaya cha budhniyaya cha 6.1.4

Salutations to him who is born from the middle and to him is born out of roots

Namo sobhyaya cha parthi saryaya cha 6.1,5

Salutations to him who is born in earth and to him who is born in other worlds.

Namo yaamyaya cha kshemyaya cha 6.1.6

Salutations to him to him who punishes in hell and to him who grants favours in heaven

Namo oorvarya cha khalyaya cha 6.1.7

Salutations to him who is in the fields and who is in gardens.

Namo shlokyaa cha vasanyaya cha 6.1.8

Salutations to him who is praised in the Vedas and to him who is praised at the end of Vedas

Namo vanyaya cha kakshyaya cha 6.1.9

Salutations to him who exists as tree in forest and to him who exists as plants in bushes

Namo sravaya cha prathisravaaya cha 6.1.10

Salutations to him who is of the form of sound and to him who is in the form of echo

Nama aasushenaaya cha asuradhaya cha 6.2.1

Salutations to him who is the fast moving troops and to him who is the fast moving cavalry

Nama sooraya cha avabindhathe cha 6.2.2

Salutations to him who is in the form of heroes and to him who is in the form of knights

Nama varmine cha varoodhine cha 6.2.3

Salutations to him who is armoured and to him who rides a chariot

Nama bhilmine cha kavachine cha 6.2.4

Salutations to him who wears the helmet and to him who is protected by the charms.

Nama sruthaya cha sruthasenaaya cha 6.2.5

Salutations to him who is famous and to him who has a famed army.



Rudram
Rudram - First Anuvaaka
Rudram - Second Anuvaaka
Rudram - Third Anuvaaka
Rudram - Fourth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Fifth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Sixth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Seventh Anuvaaka
Rudram - Eigth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Ninth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Tenth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Eleventh Anuvaaka
Rudra - Final Stotras

Rudram - Fifth Anuvaaka

Fifth Anuvaaka

Namo bhavaya cha rudraya cha 5.1.1

Salutations to him who creates and to him who dispels sorrows

Nama sarvaya cha pasupathaye cha 5.1.2

Salutations to him who destroys sin and to him who is the lord of all beings,

Namo neela greevaya cha sithi kantaaya cha 5.1.3

Salutations to him who has a blue neck and who has white ash applied over his neck

Nama kapardhine cha vyupthakesaya cha 5.1.4

Salutations to him who has a crown of hair and to him who has a shaved head

Nama sahasrakshaya cha sathadanvane cha 5.1.5

Salutations to him who has thousands of eyes and to him who has hundreds of bows.

Namo gireesaya cha sipivishtaya cha 5.1.6

Salutations to him who is the lord of the mountain and to him who is light personified

Namo meedushtamaaya cheshumathe cha 5.1.7

Salutations to him who gives torrential rains and to him who caries arrows.

Namo hruswayaa cha vamanaaya cha 5.1.8

Salutations to him who is small and to him who is dwarf

Namo bruhathe cha varsheeyase cha 5.1.9

Salutations to him who is large who is storehouse of good qualities

Namo vruddhaya cha samvrudhvane cha 5.1.10

Salutations to him who is aged and to him whose fame is large.

Namo agriyaya cha pradhamaya cha 5.2.1

Salutations to him who existed before creation and to him who is first among Gods

Nama aasave cha ajiraaya cha 5.2.2

Salutations to him who is omnipresent and to him who moves fast

Nama seegriyaya cha seebhyaya cha 5.2.3

Salutations to him who is in fast streams and to him who is in great waters

Nama oormyaya cha aswanyaya cha 5.2.4

Salutations to him who is in fast tides and to him who is in still water

Nama stotrothasyaya cha dweepyaya cha 5.2.5

Salutations to him who is in rivulets and to him who is in islands




Rudram
Rudram - First Anuvaaka
Rudram - Second Anuvaaka
Rudram - Third Anuvaaka
Rudram - Fourth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Fifth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Sixth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Seventh Anuvaaka
Rudram - Eigth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Ninth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Tenth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Eleventh Anuvaaka
Rudra - Final Stotras

Rudram

Rudram

The Sri Rudram occurs in Krishna Yajur Veda in the Taithireeya Samhita in the fourth and seventh chapters. This prayer to Rudra has two parts-the Namakam (verses ending with Nama) and the Chamakam (Verses ending with Cha May) each with eleven sections. It is also known as Satha Rudreeyam or Rudra Prasnam. While Namakam is a prayer to Rudra to forget about his avenging fierce, fearful and horrendous form and turn himself into a peaceful form and do good to us, Chamakam on the other hand lists out the blessings to be got from a prayer to Rudra and prays Him to regulate and bless our life for a moment forgetting his anger. This also has eleven parts.

The Sri Rudram is divided into eleven sections called anuvaakas.

1. In the first anuvaaka consisting of eleven sukthaas, Rudra is requested by the devotee to turn his fierce exterior and not use his weapons on his devotees. He is also requested to annihilate the sins committed by his devotees. This anuvaaka is chanted for all round development of the community as well as the well-being of the chanter. It provides a protective shield against diseases, devils, monsters, etc. Rudram - First Anuvaaka
2. In the second anuvaaka consisting of two sukthaas the Rudra is part of nature in all its glory as plants and medicinal herbs. He is requested to untie the bonds of the day-to-day life. This is chanted for destruction of enemies, possession of wealth, getting of kingdom and so on. Rudram - Second Anuvaaka
3. The third anuvaaka consisting of two sukthaas describe Rudra as a thief. He might have been presumed to be the stealer of ignorance from us. This anuvaaka is chanted to cure diseases. Rudram - Third Anuvaaka
4. In the fourth anuvaaka, consisting of two sukthaas, Rudra is the common man with his deficiencies, angularities and described as the creator and worker of all kinds. Rudram - Fourth Anuvaaka
5. In the fifth Anuvaaka, consisting of two sukthaas, several aspects of Rudra's personality, especially as God responsible for creation, preservation and destruction is described. This is chanted to get rid of ignorance and Maya, for victory against enemies, for begetting of a son, for avoidance of problems during pregnancy and for expansion of wealth. Rudram - Fifth Anuvaaka
6. In the sixth anuvaaka consisting of two sukthaas. Rudra is identified with changes of his personality over eons of time and the roles he has played in different ages. He is described as the source of the different worlds, Shrutis (Vedas) and its essence in Vedanta. This is chanted for the same aim stated in the fifth anuvaaka. Rudram - Sixth Anuvaaka
7. In the seventh anuvaaka, consisting of two sukthaas, his all pervading presence in nature in all its fury and majesty is described. This anuvaaka is chanted for the increase of intelligence, wealth, health and longevity. Rudram - Seventh Anuvaaka
8. In the eighth anuvaaka, Rudra is described as He who illumines other Gods and confers powers on them. The Panchakshari mantra viz. “Nama Shivaaya” occurs for the first time in Vedas in this anuvaaka. It is told that when you do not have time to chant the Rudra fully at least this eighth anuvaaka should be chanted. This anuvaaka is chanted for the destruction of enemies and re -possession of one’s assets. Rudram - Eigth Anuvaaka
9. In the ninth anuvaaka, which consists of two sukthaas, the unfancied and hard to live places where Rudra lives is listed out. In essence it means he is all pervasive. This anuvaaka is chanted for obtaining wealth, a good wife, good job, and the blessings of a son who will be devoted to Lord Shiva. Rudram - Ninth Anuvaaka
10. In the tenth anuvaaka, Rudra is again requested not to show his furious fear giving form and appear before the devotee in a peaceful calm form. The mantras unlike the ones till ninth anuvaaka do not end in Nama after every description. This anuvaaka is chanted for possession of wealth, cure of diseases, removal of fear, getting rid of the enmity of powerful people, absence of fear from all living beings, having the vision of Bhairava (Shiva in his most fearful aspect), absence from dangers and fears, blessings and the absolution of sins. Rudram - Tenth Anuvaaka
11. In the eleventh anuvaaka, consisting of eleven sukthaas, Rudra’s army called Ganaas is praised and they, wherever they exist, are beseeched to protect the devotees of Rudra. This anuvaaka is chanted for acquiring knowledge of past, present and future. Rudram - Eleventh Anuvaaka. This anuvaaka is followed by six stotras of Rudra.

Rudram - Fourth Anuvaaka

Fourth Anuvaaka

Nama avyadheeneebhyo vividhayantheebyascha vo namo nama. 4.1.1

Salutations and salutations,
To him who is the evil spirits that surround and torment,
And to him who is the evil spirits that attack and kill.

Uganabhysthrum hathobyhascha vo namo nama 4.1.2

Salutations and salutations,
To him who is the good spirits that help,
And to him who is the evil spirits that are fierce.

Gruthsebhyo gruthsa pathibyascha vo namo nama 4.1.3

Salutations and salutations,
To him who is attached,
And to him who is the chief of those who are attached.

Vrathebhyo Vrathapathibyascha vo namo nama. 4.1.4


Salutations and salutations,
To him who is the assembly of different types of people,
And to him who is the chief of such assemblies.

Ganebhyo ganapathibyascha vo namo nama. 4.1.5

Salutations and salutations,
To him who is the member of a clan,
And to him who is the chief of a clan.

Viroopebhyo Viswaroopebhyascha vo namo nama. 4.1.6

Salutations and salutations,
To him who looks ugly,
And to him who looks just as every one in the world.

Mahadbhya kshullakebyascha vo namo nama. 4.1,7

Salutations and salutations,
To him who is a great soul,
And to him who is a weak being.

Radhibhyo aradhebhyascha vo namo nama. 4.1.8

Salutations and salutations,
To him who rides a chariot,
And to him who does not have a chariot.

Radhebhya radha pathibhyscha vo namo nama. 4.2.1

Salutations and salutations,
To him who is a chariot,
And to him who is the leader of the chariot.

Senabhya Senanibhyascha vo namo nama 4.2.2


Salutations and salutations,
To him who is the soldier,
And to him who is the leader of the armies.

Kshathrabya sangraheethrubyacha vo namo nama 4.2.3

Salutations and salutations,
To him who drives chariots well,
And to him who can hold the chariot from moving.

Sthakshabhyo rathakarebhyascha vo namo nama 4.2.4


Salutations and salutations,
To him who is a carpenter,
And to him who makes chariots.

Kulalebhya kamaribhyascha vo namo nama 4.2.5

Salutations and salutations,
To him who is the potter,
And to him who is the black smith.

Punchishtebhyo nishadebhyascha vo namo nama. 4.2.6

Salutations and salutations,
To him who is the hunter of birds who uses nets,
And to him who is the fisherman.

Ikshukrudbhyo dhanva krudhbyascha vo namo nama. 4.2.7

Salutations and salutations,
To him who makes arrows,
And to him who makes bows.

Mrugayubhya swanibhyascha vo namo nama. 4.2.8

Salutations and salutations,
To him who hunts animals,
And to him who drags dogs using a rope.

Swabhya swapathibhyascha vo namo nama. 4.2.9

Salutations and salutations,
To him who is a dog,
And to him who protects the dogs.


Rudram
Rudram - First Anuvaaka
Rudram - Second Anuvaaka
Rudram - Third Anuvaaka
Rudram - Fourth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Fifth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Sixth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Seventh Anuvaaka
Rudram - Eigth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Ninth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Tenth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Eleventh Anuvaaka
Rudra - Final Stotras

Rudram - Third Anuvaaka

Third Anuvaaka

Nama sahamanaaya nivyadheen aavyadheenaam pathay namo nama 3.1.1

Salutations and salutations,
To him who stifles his enemies,
To him who beats his enemies,
And to him who is the leader of those who beat their enemies.

Kukubhaya nishangine sthenaanam pathaye namo nama. 3.1.2

Salutations and salutations,
To him who is the best,
To him who holds the sword,
And to him who is the leader of the thieves.



Nishngina ishudhimathe thaskaraanam pathaye namo nama. 3.1.3

Salutations and salutations,
To him who holds bows ready to shoot,
To him who has the quiver,
And to him who is the leader of the dacoits.

Vanchathe pari vanchathe sthayoonam pathaye namo nama 3.1.4

Salutations and salutations,
To him who cheats,
To him who is the greatest cheat,
And to him who is leader of those who steal by cheating.

Nicherave paricharaayaaranyanam pathaye namo nama 3.1.5

Salutations and salutations,
To him who goes inside to steal,
To him who goes outside to steal,
And to him who is the leader of thieves who steal in the forest.

Srukaavibhyo jikaam sathbhyo mushnathaam pathaye namo nama 3.1.6

Salutations and salutations,
To him who defends themselves with arms.
To him who troubles others,
And to him who is the leader of peasants who steal from their master.

Assemadbhyo naktham charadbhya prukrunthanaam pathaye namo nama. 3.1.7

Salutations and salutations,
To him who holds the sword,
To him who prowls in the night to steal,
And to him who is the leader of those who murder and steal.

Unmeeshine giricharaaya kulanchaanaam pathaye namo nama. 3.1.8

Salutations and salutations,
To him who wears the turban,
To him who lives in the forests,
And to him who is the leader of those who steal in houses and fields.

Ishumadbhyo dhanvaa vibhyascha bho namo nama 3.2.1

Salutations and salutations,
To him who holds the arrows.
And to him who holds the bows.

Aathanvanebhya prathi dhanebhyscha namo nama 3.2.2

Salutations and salutations,
To him who ties the string to the bow,
And to him who places the arrow on the string.

Ayaaschadbhyo visrujadbhyacha vo namo nama 3.2.3

Salutations and salutations,
To him who draws the string,
And to him who sends the arrows


Asyadbhyo vidhudyadbhya vo namo nama 3.2.4

Salutations and salutations,
To him who shoots arrows at an aim,
And to him who breaks the aim by the arrows

Aaseenebhya sayanebhyascha vo namo nama. 3.2.5

Salutations and salutations,
To him who sits,
And to him who lies down.

Swapadbhyo jagardbhyascha vo namo nama 3.2.6

Salutations and salutations,
To him who sleeps,
And to him who is awake.

Sthishtathbyo dhavadbyascha vo namo nama 3.2,7

Salutations and salutations,
To him who stands still,
And to him who runs.

Sababhya sabha pathibhyascha vo namo nama. 3.2.8

Salutations and salutations,
To him who is one among the audience,
And to him who presides over the audience.

Aswebhyo aswapathibhyascha vo namo nama. 3.2.9

Salutations and salutations,
To him who is the horse,
And to him who is the rider of the horse.


Rudram
Rudram - First Anuvaaka
Rudram - Second Anuvaaka
Rudram - Third Anuvaaka
Rudram - Fourth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Fifth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Sixth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Seventh Anuvaaka
Rudram - Eigth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Ninth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Tenth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Eleventh Anuvaaka
Rudra - Final Stotras

Rudram - Second Anuvaaka

Second Anuvaaka

Namasthe asthu bhagavan visweswarayaa mahadevayaa tryambakaya,
Tripuranthakayaa trikagni kalaaya kalagni rudhraaya neela kantaaya,
Mrutyunjayaaya sarveshwaraaya sadashivaaya sriman maha devaaya nama. 2.0

Salutations to you God,
Who is the lord of the universe,
Who is the greatest among Gods,
Who has three eyes,
Who destroyed three cities,
Who is the master of the three fires,
Who is the Rudra who burns the world,
Who has a blue neck,
Who won over the God of death,
Who is Lord of every thing,
Who is ever peaceful,
And who is the greatest God with goodness,
Salutations again.



Namo hiranya bahave , senanye ,dhisaam cha pathaye namo nama. 2.1.1

Salutations and salutations,
To the God with golden hands,
To the God who is the chief of armies,
To the God who is the chief of four directions.

Vrukshobhyo , harikeshabhya , pasunaam pathaye namo nama. 2.1.2

Salutations and salutations,
To him who shines as trees,
To him who has green leaves as hair,
And to him who is the lord of all beings.

Saspinjaraaya , twishee mathe , padheenaam pathaye namo nama. 2.1.3

Salutations and salutations,
To him who is reddish yellow like leaf buds,
To him who shines in luster,
And to him who leads us in different directions.

Bhablushaaya vivyaadhine annanaam pathye namo nama 2.1.4

Salutations and salutations,.
To him who rides on the bull,
To him who is like disease to his enemies,
And to him who is the lord of all food.

Hari keasayaa upaveethine pushtanaam pathaye namo nama. 2.1.5

Salutations and salutations,
To him who has black hair,
To him who wears the sacred thread,
And to him who is the lord of all those who are healthy.

Bhavasya hethyai , jagatham pathaye namo nama. 2.1.6

Salutations and salutations,.
To him cuts the tree of mortal life,
And to him who is the lord of the universe.

Rudrayaa atha thavine kshetranaam pathaye namo nama 2.1.7

Salutations and salutations,
To him who is Rudhra,
To him who holds a tied bow,
And to him who is the Lord of fields.

Suthaaya hanthyaaya vanaanam pathaye namo nama. 2.1.8

Salutations and salutations,
To him who is the driver of the chariot of life,
To him who can never be harmed,
And to him who is the lord of the forest.

Rohithaaya sthapathaye vrukshaanam pathaye namo nama. 2.2.1

Salutations and salutations,
To him who is red coloured,
To him who is protector of every thing,
And to him who is the lord of all trees.

Manthrinee vanijaya kakshanaam pathaye namo nama 2.2.2

Salutations and salutations,
To him who is the minister,
To him who is the merchant,
And to him who is the lord of bushes and thickets.

Bhuvanthaye varivaskruthaa oushadinaam pathaye namo nama. 2.2.3

Salutations and salutations,
To him who is the creator of the world,
To him who is kind to his devotees,
And to him who is the lord of all plants.

Uchai goshaaya akranthayathe patheenam pathaye namo nama. 2.2.4

Salutations and salutations,
To him who shouts loudly,
To him who makes one cry,
And to him who is the leader of foot soldiers.

Kruthsna vheethya dhavathe sathvanaam pathaye namo nama. 2.2.5

Salutations and salutations,
To him who is surrounded by army,
To him who rushes to save his devotees,
And to him who is the lord of good people.


Rudram
Rudram - First Anuvaaka
Rudram - Second Anuvaaka
Rudram - Third Anuvaaka
Rudram - Fourth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Fifth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Sixth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Seventh Anuvaaka
Rudram - Eigth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Ninth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Tenth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Eleventh Anuvaaka
Rudra - Final Stotras

Rudram - First Anuvaaka

Rudra -Prasnam

OM Namo Bhagavathe Rudraya

Om Salutations to the God who is Rudhra.


First Anuvaaka

Namasthe Rudhra manyava Uthotha Ishave Nama
Namsthosthu Dhanvane Bahubyam Uthathe Nama. 1.1

Salutations to your Ire, Rudhra and also salutations to your arrow..
Salutations to your bow and also to your both arms.

Yatha ishu siva thamaa shivam babuva the dhanu,
Shivaa sharavyaa yaa thava thaya no rudhra mrudaya. 1.2

Bless us with happiness our Lord,
With that arrow of thine, which is holy,
With that bow of thine, which is begetter of good,
With that quiver of thine, which is sweet.

Yaa the shivaa thanu raghoraa papakasini,
Thaya nasthanuva shantha maya gireesam thaabhi chakashihi. 1.3

Oh Rudra, who showers happiness on us from the Mount,
With your aspect which is peaceful,
Which is giver of good always,
And that, which is bereft of sin,
And which is the road to salvation,
And which takes us to taller heights,
Reveal to us the principle of the soul.

Yaa mishum giri shantha hasthe Bhibarshya sthave,
Shivaam girithra thaam kuru maa himsi purusham jagat. 1.4

Oh Rudra who feeds us sweetness sitting on the mount,
And who gives us solace sitting on the mount,
Please make the arrow in your hand,
Which you have brought to punish the sinners,
Peaceful and do not give trouble to people and the world.

Shivena vachasaa twaa gireesaacchha vadaamasi,
Yadhaa na sarva mi jjagadhaa yashmamsumanaa asath. 1.5

We praise and sing about you so that we attain you,
Oh, God who lives on the top of the mountains,
Be pleased to protect our relations and cows,
Grant them all, a disease free life,
And make them live with love towards each other,

Adhyavoo chadhadhi vakthaa pradhamo daiwyo bhishak,
Ahimscha sarvaan jambayanth sarvaschaa yathu dhaanya. 1.6

He who is first among everything,
He who is Godliness in Gods,
He who is the doctor curing the sins,
He who praises good deeds of devotees,
Forgetting the ills done by them,
May he kill all animals and asuras that trouble us,
And bless us all.

Aasau yasthamro aruna utha bhaabroo sumangala,
Yeh chemam rudra abhitho dikshu,
Sritha Sahastraso avaishaam heda eemahe. 1,7

He is red in colour,
He is more red in colour,
He is golden,
He gives rise to good things,
He is the Rudhra, who is the sun,
And so we bow before the thousands of Rudhras,
Who are spread in all directions,
And request them to cool themselves down.

Asou yo avasarpathi neela greevo vilohitha,
Uthainam gopaa adrusannath drushan udhaharya,
Uthainam viswaa bhoothani sa drushto mrudayathi na. 1,8

He who has the blue neck,
Is the one who rises as the copper colured sun.
Even lowly cowherds see this Rudhra who comes as sun,
Even the maids who carry water from rivers see him thus,
And even all the animals of the world see him thus.
Let this Rudra who is seen in the form of sun,
Grant us all happiness.

Namo asthu neela greevaya sahasrakshaya meedushe,
Adho ye asya sathvannoham thebhyo karannama. 1.9

Let my salutation go,
To the God who has a blue neck,
To the God who has thousands of eyes,
To the God who grants us all boons,
And also my salutations,
To his devotees who are his servants.


Pramuncha dhanvana sthava mubhayo rarthaniyorjyam,
Yascha the hastha ishawa paraa thaa bhagavo vapa. 1.10

Please untie the string connecting the ends of your bow, Oh God
Please put away arrows in your hand in thine quiver.

Avathasys dhanusthvam sahasraksha sathe shudhe,
Niseerya salyanaam mukha shivo na sumana bhava. 1.11

Oh God with thousand eyes,
Oh God with hundreds of bows,
Please break the sharp ends of arrows thine,
Please slacken the string of your bow,
And become God who does us good,
And God who has a calm mind.

Vijyam dhanu kapardhino visalyo bhanavaam utha,
Anesannasyeshwa aabhurasya nishamgadhi. 1.12

Oh God with the mane of hair,
Let your bow loosen its string,
Let your quiver become empty,
Let your arrows loose the power to hurt,
Let your sword be always in your scabbard.

Yaa the hethir meedushtama hasthe bhabhoova the dhanu,
Thayaa asman viswathasthava mayakshamya paribbuja. 1.13

He who is greatest among those who fulfill wishes of devotees,
With those weapons that you have and the bow in your hand.
Which do not cause infirmity to any one,
Please do save us from all troubles always.

Namasthe asthvayudhaa yanaathathathaya dhrushnave,
Ubhabhyamutha the namo bahubhyam thava dhanvane. 1.14

My salutations to thine strong weapons which are about to strike,
My salutations to your both hands and bow,

Pari the dhanvano hethi rasmaan vrunakthu viswatha,
Adho ya ishudhisthavare asmannidhehi tham. 1.15

Let your arrows pass away from us, oh Lord,
And let your quiver be kept for our enemies,
Who are like our sins.


Rudram
Rudram - First Anuvaaka
Rudram - Second Anuvaaka
Rudram - Third Anuvaaka
Rudram - Fourth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Fifth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Sixth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Seventh Anuvaaka
Rudram - Eigth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Ninth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Tenth Anuvaaka
Rudram - Eleventh Anuvaaka
Rudra - Final Stotras

Significance of Vishu

In Kerala, the start of the Zodiac New Year*—when the sun enters into Sidereal Aries, Ashwini nakshatra—is celebrated as Vishu. It is said that what one sees when one first opens one's eyes on Vishu morning is an indication of what one can expect in the year to come. Thus on Vishu, effort is made to assure one opens one's eyes before an auspicious image—the Vishukkani.

While the festival is called "Vishu" only in Kerala, across India festivals sharing the same spirit—such as Ugadhi in Andhra Pradesh and in Karnataka, Gudi Padwa in Maharashtra, Bihu in Assam and Baisakhi in Punjab—are celebrated around the same time of year.

The Malayalam word kani literally means "that which is seen first," so "Vishukkani" means "that which is seen first on Vishu."

Arranged in the family puja room the night before by the mother in the family, the Vishukkani is a panorama of auspicious items, including images of Lord Vishnu, flowers, fruits and vegetables, clothes and gold coins.

Lord Vishnu, the preserver of creation, is the aspect of the Paramatman that is focused upon during Vishu. In jyotish, Indian astrology, Vishnu is seen as the head of Kaala Purusha, the God of Time. As Vishu marks the first day of the Zodiac New Year, it is an appropriate time to offer oblations to Lord Vishnu.

Akshatam, a mixture of rice and turmeric, which is divided into halves of husked and un-husked rice, is placed in a special bowl called an uruli. The uruli traditionally is made of panchaloham, an aggregate of five metals. Panchaloham being symbolic of the universe, which is comprised of the five great elements—earth, water, fire, air and space.

A nice, well-starched cloth is then pleated fan-like and inserted into a highly polished brass kindi (a spouted puja vessel used for pouring sacred water). The val-kannadi, a special type of mirror with an extremely long and thin handle, often decorated with gold, is also inserted into the kindi. The kindi is then placed in the uruli on top of the rice.

Two deepams, which are fashioned from the two halves of a split coconut, are also kept in the uruli. The wicks are made from pieces of starched cloth that are folded into bulbs at the base. These bulbs are placed into the coconut oil that fills the deepams, anchoring the wicks in place. The starch helps the rest of the wick to extend straight upwards so that they will properly burn. The lighting of the deepam welcomes God into our lives and is also symbolic of spiritual knowledge—the remover of the darkness of ignorance.

Gold—both in colour and in coin—is central to the Vishukkani. Kanikkonna, a golden-yellow flower associated with Sri Krishna is used liberally throughout the puja room. This flower only blooms when the sun is in its most exalted position astrologically—the month surrounding Vishu. In the puja room, the flower verily represents the sun itself, the eyes of Lord Vishnu. Gold coins are symbols of monetary affluence, as well as cultural and spiritual wealth, which the elders of the family must share freely with the younger generation. Vishukkaineettam, the distribution of wealth, is another aspect of the festival. It should be given freely and accepted with reverence. On Vishu, the highly affluent families will not only give money to their children but also their neighbours, perhaps the entire village.

The Vishukkani will also be laden with gold-coloured fruits and vegetables, such as bananas, jackfruit, golden cucumber, etc. The akshatam, as it is full of turmeric, also is gold in colour, as is the shiny brass of the kindi, the panchaloham and the reflection of the mirror.
Last but not least, a spiritual book, such as the Bhagavad-Gita, should be made part of the arrangement. The book is the pramanam—the instrument used for attaining the eternal, non-perishable wisdom of the Rishis—as well as a symbol of that knowledge itself.

The grandmother or mother who arranges the Vishukkani will sleep in the puja room after she is finished and then, waking during the auspicious hour of the Brahma muhurata (4:00 to 6:00 a.m.), she will light the oil-lamp wicks and take in the auspicious sight. She will then walk to the rooms where the rest of the family is sleeping and wake them. Covering their eyes, she will then lead them to the puja room, where she will allow them to take in the auspicious sight.

Upon opening one's eyes, one is overwhelmed with the glorious darshan of the Lord. The mirror—which is symbolic of Bhagavati (Devi), not only increases the lustre of the Vishukkani via the reflection it offers, but also shows our own face, reminding us that God is not someone sitting in the heavens upon a golden throne, but the pure consciousness that is our true nature. The mirror also points to the importance of making our mind pure enough to render this truth unadulterated.

The Vishukkani is not reserved only for those who come to the puja room, but is taken around—for the viewing of the elderly and sick who are perhaps too frail to come to the shrine. It is also brought outside and shown to the family cows. As it is brought to the cowshed, it in fact is on display for the birds, the trees, for all of nature to see.

Vishukkani points to a year of abundance—both spiritually and materially. Food, light, money, knowledge—all should fill our life. Taking in the Vishukkani we should pray that the vision remains with us throughout the year. It is not enough that the joy we take from viewing the Vishukkani comes only to our eyes. It must reflect in our thoughts and in our actions. The auspicious start of the year—which has come to us due to the grace of beginning it with a divine vision—is not for us alone. It is up to us to spread this love, happiness and hope to the rest of society.

The Sabarimala Temple which remains closed for the major part of a year is open for a longer period only during Mandala Makaravilakku season (November – December – January). Next major opening of the temple is during the Vishu season. The temple also opens on the first day of every Malayalam month.

Devotees can perform all the important rituals associated with the temple during the Vishu period. It is considered highly auspicious to have the ‘darshan’ of Lord Ayyappa on the Vishu day. A unique ritual performed by the head priest on the Vishu day is the distribution of coins or Vishu Kai Neetam.

At the Livermore Shiva Vishnu Temple in the San Francsico Bay Area, there was a grand function to celebrate Vishu. The function was well attended and attracted many devotees.

Swami Saranam!

Source: Archives of Amritapuri.org for the significance of Vishu

Vishu Celebrations: Livermore Shiva Vishnu Temple: April 19, 2009

Dear Devotees,
Swami Saranam!

We will have Abhisekham followed by Bhajans and Aarathi to celebrate Vishu at our Shiva Vishnu temple in Livermore on Sunday, April 19 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Please spread the word around to your friends.

Vishu is a New Year festival held in the state of Kerala, south India (and adjoining areas of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu). This occasion signifies the Sun's transit to the zodiac Mesha (Mesha Raasi as per Indian astrology). The word "Vishu" in Sanskrit means "equal". Therefore Vishu is more probably denoting one of the equinox days. The festival is marked with offerings to the divine called Vishukkani. The offerings consist of a ritual arrangement in the puja room of auspicious articles like raw rice, fresh linen, golden cucumber, betel leaves, arecanut, metal mirror, the yellow flowers konna, and a holy text and coins, in a bell metal vessel called uruli. A lighted bell metal lamp called nilavilakku is also placed alongside. This arrangement is completed the previous night. On the day of Vishu, the custom is to wake up at dawn and go to the puja room with the eyes closed so that the Vishukkani is the first thing one sees. Devotees throng the well-known temples like Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple, Guruvayur Sree Krishna temple to have a "Vishukkani Kazhcha" on the early hours of "Vishu" day.

Program Details:
5 PM: Sankalpam, Abhishekam, and Archana
5:45 PM: Bhajan Starts
7 PM: Bhajan Ends with Aarti and Teertha Prasadam

Suggested Donations
Archana: $7
Abhisekham: $51

Swami Saranam!
Prasad Ramakrishnan

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An account of our Sabarimala pilgrimage January 2009

Pre Jan 3 - Nine people from the US (3 from bay area, 2 from Maryland, 1 from Virginia, 1 from St. Louis, 1 from Kansas, 1 from Atlanta) congregate at Chennai.

Jan 3 - Nine of us along with 14 others (who come from Chennai, Pune, Bombay, etc.) tie Irumudi at Chennai at Guruswami's home, one at a time, all while singing bhajans, sarana ghoshams, etc. Three Ayyappas did their 18th yatra and, hence, carried the coconut sampling. After a great lunch we leave for Chennai Central to board Trivandram Express.

Jan 4 - We get down at Chenganur, and proceed to Chenganur Bhagavati Amman temple. We bathe at the nearby river, which we later came to realize was river Pampa, and visit the temple. Then we proceed to Pandalam, where we see Lord Ayyappa, Pandalam palace, and Thiruvabharanam. This year for the first time, they've replaced the old jewelry boxes with new ones made with sandal wood. They had carvings of the Sabarimala temple on the boxes. Then we proceed to Erumeli. We perform pettai-thullal, visit Vaavar sannathi and visit Sri Dharma Shasta temple. Then we begin the 60-km long trip via Peria paathai. We cross Perur-thodu thavalam and complete about 15 kms for the day ending at Kaalai-katti. Kaalai-katti is where Lord Shiva ties his bull and witnesses Lord Ayyappa killing Mahishi.

Jan 5 - We continue our trek past Azhutha malai, mukkuzhi, etc. walking almost 30 kms. Walking past karivalanthodu, puthu-cheri river, etc. we climb Karimalai, which is a steep 4km ascent. We halt at top of Karimalai for the night. It was very cold during the night.

Jan 6 - We descend the steep 4km Karimalai and proceed to Pamba past Seri-yaanai-vattam and Peri-yaanai-vattam. At Pamba we take a bath and climb the Neelimalai. The security was heavy past Pamba Ganapathi, where every one had to go thru metal detectors and all the bags were scanned using machines. When we reached Sabari-Peetom at 12 noon, the line for the 18-steps began right there, same as last year, when we stood in the line for 12 hours. Fearing the same this year, we approached the police and showed them a letter from the pilice commissioner and pleaded with them to let us walk past the line all the way to 18-steps. We climbed the 18-steps and at 12:58pm, 2 minutes before the Sannadhi closes we see Lord Ayyappa. It was just 30 seconds before Lord Ayyappa, but it felt like a 30 minutes before him - all the troubles of walking for the last 2 days on rocks with blisters and pain was instantly forgotten. Then we proceed to our accomodation in the donors cottage. We sang bhajans in the evening, and then proceeded to see Lord Ayyappa again at 11pm when Harivaraasanam was played - listening to the devotional voice of Yesudass.

Jan 7 - Early in the morning we waited in line to see Nirmalaya dharshan, but they started Nei abhishekam early by 5am, which we got to see. Then back at the room, we removed Nei from the Mudra coconut. We came back again to Sannadhi to perform Nei-abhishekam, then after abhishekam, we carried the abhishekam-ed Nei, accompanied by Karpoora Aaghzi, to the room, where we consumed the Nei. Then we visited the Manja matha temple, and got one more dharshan of Lord Ayyappa before we descended the Neelimalai back to Pamba, where we boarded our bus. After a long ride we reached Ettumanur temple. Then after dinner we proceed to Kaladi where we stay for the night.

Jan 8 - Kaladi is the birth place of Adi Sankara. We took bath in the Periyar river that Adi Sankara diverts by 3 kms closer to home so that his old mother doesn't have to walk that long to take a bath. Kaladi has a great temple for Goddess Saraswati - Sharadhamba. Then we proceed to Kodungalur Baghavathi temple, and then to Guruvayur. If you didn't know the story of Guruvayur, Guru and Vayu find Lord Krishna's statue (one that's formed by nature) washed from Mathura on the shores of Kerala and hands it over to Parasuram, who installs it at Guruvayoor. They change the alamkarams of Krishna every 1/2 hour - dressing him up as a boy in the morning and ending as a old man in the night. Finally we visit Shiva at Vadakunathar temple in the night. Then we board Trivandram express back to Chennai.

Jan 9 - We reach Chennai, go to Guruswami's house, distribute the prasadam and then go our ways after another great Sabarimala yatra.