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Showing posts with label E-03. Bhaagavatha Vaibhavam. Show all posts
Showing posts with label E-03. Bhaagavatha Vaibhavam. Show all posts

Wednesday, 22 August 2018

Sri Rama Dasa Hanuman - Tests, Transformations & Triumphs


Sri Rama Dasa Hanuman


Image Credit: https://in.pinterest.com/pin/4855512089330922/





Context


A few days back, a gentleman had shared an article [a blog post of his] on Sri Hanuman with me [and Sri Velukkudi Krishnan Swami] in a popular social media site.

After reading the article, it seemed to me that the aim of the article is to establish that the greatness of Sri Hanuman is purely due to the grace of Sri Rama and that Sri Hanuman had no innate positive quality except for His blind Guru Bhakthi for Sri Rama. However, in the zeal to establish the greatness of grace of Sri Rama, the article had made several unfortunate comments about Sri Hanuman.

After a couple of days since I received the article [and thinking it over in solitude], I had communicated my candid feedback to the author. The author had responded courteously - he said that he understands my sentiments and that his article is to be interpreted as 'Nindha Sthuthi' [i.e. praise made in the disguise of censure]. After a few more exchanges of views, we had finally agreed to disagree.




Transformation of a Jivathma - A Brief Insight


Every Baddha Jivathma has a journey. For a Baddha Jivathma struggling in the Leela Vibhuthi, being 100% free of blemishes is almost impossible.

Whenever a significant realization of one or more of the following occurs, a Jivathma undergoes a remarkable transformation:

* The existence of a Paramathma

* The difference between one's body and one's Jivathma

* The Paramathma [i.e. who is the Paramathma]

* True role of one's Jivathma in the Universe

* The concept & importance of Moksha

* The way to gain Moksha

* The obstacles to Moksha


Usually, the transformation manifests as one or more of the following visible traits:

* Reduction in / withdrawal from the interest for worldly pleasures

* Development of affection for the Paramathma

* Development of affection and respect for the Paramathma's Devotees

Now, there are 2 scenarios:

1. A significant transformation may happen in one birth and the associated traits may manifest in the following birth/s: Some Jivathmas exhibit great Bhakthi from a very early age. Examples: Meera Bai, Soor Das

2. Both the significant transformation and the manifestation of associated traits may happen within the same given birth: Some Jivathmas exhibit typical traits [almost until mid life] and then exhibit noteworthy traits when the transformation occurs. Examples: Pundalik, Purandara Dasa

In any case, a transformation is a transformation. True, even that transformed Baddha Jivathma had blemishes, had undergone trials and tribulations across several births and had reached that staggering level of exaltation only by the grace of the Paramathma - none is an exception to this rule! Yet a transformed Jivathma is ALWAYS worthy of utmost respect. Sri Hanuman is one such wonderful Jivathma. How? Why? Answering these questions is the primary aim of this article.

This article also aims to point out why the claims made regarding Sri Hanuman's "blemishes" [in the gentleman's article quoted above] are incorrect. There are a couple of claims that are not present in Srimad Valmiki Ramayanam [also known as 'Ithihasa Rathnam']. Elders say that when it comes to a contradiction between an Ithihasa and a Purana, one should disregard the Puranic version and choose the stance of the Ithihasa. Also, Srimad Valmiki Ramayanam has a boon from Brahma that it would speak only the Truth. Thereby, claims that do not find a place in Srimad Valmiki Ramayanam have NOT been answered in this article.

References: https://www.valmikiramayan.net has been referred to for consulting Sargam & Slokam numbers.




Sri Hanuman - Before Sri Rama Darshanam


Image Credit: https://in.pinterest.com/pin/326159198017234129/





We all know that childhood pranks are not "blemishes" in the real sense!

1. Yes, as a child, Sri Hanuman had almost reached Surya to eat Him, mistaking the Deva to be a fruit and Indra had hurled the Vajrayudha to prevent any harm to Surya. Interestingly, the very same Surya and Indra also became His Gurus when Sri Hanuman grew old enough to learn!

Sri Mangalagiri Kshetra Mahathmyam even describes how Sri Hanuman learnt everything from Surya in just 24 hours i.e. by facing His Guru with joined palms [i.e. travelling backwards!] even as Surya was doing His regular, non-stop duty of traversing the sky. 'Aindra Vyakarana Panditha' is a title given to Sri Hanuman as He had learnt grammar from Indra. These events only show Sri Hanuman's enormous prowess and sharp intellect. Also, one must note that He harboured no ill-feelings towards Indra - if that is not maturity then what is?

2. Yes, only because of Vayu's anger did all Devas confer special boons on Sri Hanuman. However, per Law of Karma, no reward is free & no punishment is baseless. Given the fact that every Jivathma is eternal [i.e. it has no beginning / end], even our Jivathmas were existent in Thretha Yuga. So, why was Sri Hanuman's Jivathma given the opportunity to play the role He played? Why not my Jivathma? Or yours? Sri Hanuman had earned His boons - why and how would be known to beings who can see the past, the present and the future. Not to people like us!

3. Yes, little Hanuman's childhood pranks were difficult to manage but the Rishis' curse was a very, very gentle one. They could have easily cursed Him to lose all power or turned Him into a stone, no? They didn't and, surely, as sage people who could know the past, the present & the future, They must have had Their reasons!


Reference Account Given By Description
Kishkinda Kandam, Sarga 44, Slokam 4 - 9 Sugreeva Maharaja

Right from the beginning of Kishkinda Kandam, one can easily notice that Sugreeva Maharaja has nothing but words of praise for Sri Hanuman's abilities. It was Sri Hanuman who suggested that Sugreeva Maharaja and His ministers take refuge in Rishyamukha Mountains as they were inaccessible to Vali. It was Sri Hanuman who reminded Sugreeva Maharaja that it was high time that He attended to His promise to Sri Rama. It was Sri Hanuman who suggested that Sugreeva Maharaja should placate a furious Sri Lakshmana by means of an Anjali Mudra [joining palms in a respectful salute, indicating surrender].

Even when sending troops in all directions to search for Seetha Devi, Sugreeva Maharaja foresees that Sri Hanuman would certainly achieve the task and places Him in the south-bound troop. Leaving aside even Sri Jambavan and Angada, Sugreeva Maharaja makes a special mention regarding the mission only to Sri Hanuman and praises His abilities in detail. Even Sri Rama takes a note of this special attention to Sri Hanuman and gives Him the Ring.

Kishkinda Kandam, Sarga 66 Sri Jambavan

A repeat of all praises heaped on Sri Hanuman by Sugreeva Maharaja can be seen in this Sarga and, this time, it is by Sri Jambavan. The same reference to intelligence, might, speed, ethics, courage are made here too. So, that Sri Hanuman is a distinguished Vanara is an already-established fact.




One major stance of Sri Hanuman's that shows the strength of His morality is His decision to stay with Sugreeva Maharaja in times of Sugreeva Maharaja's adversity.

Though Sri Hanuman knew that Sugreeva Maharaja's life wasn't going to be a bed of roses after the bitter split with Vali, He chose a difficult, uncertain life in the forests over palatial comforts. Sugreeva Maharaja's side had just 5 members [including Sugreeva Maharaja!] & the rest of the enormous Vanara population was definitely with Vali at that time.

Note: Sri Hanuman could have fought Vali - however, He could not remember His true strength due to the curse of the Rishis and hence, made no such effort [and none reminded Him at that juncture].

This not only shows Sri Hanuman's innate loyalty but also His inborn tendency to choose a difficult yet virtuous path instead of taking an easy but non-virtuous path [as Dharma was very much on Sugreeva Maharaja's side].




Sri Hanuman - After Sri Rama Darshanam


Image Credit: https://in.pinterest.com/pin/4714774599680736/


The very first kataksham of Seetha Devi [the most coveted Lakshmi Kataksham] was bestowed on Sugreeva Maharaja & His 4 supporting Vanaras when She was being abducted - She saw them and threw some of Her jewels for them to notice. [Reference: Aranya Kandam, Sargam 54]

Sugreeva Maharaja collected them from the ground and safeguarded them - this paved way for Him to befriend Sri Ramachandra and thereby overcome His sorrows, gain His wife Ruma and also, the lordship of Kishkinda. For Sri Hanuman's Jivathma, however, the path of progress unfolds in a very different and a very interesting manner. Our Acharyas have described this very beautifully, as always.


Event Reference Description
The first Sri Rama Darshanam Kishkinda Kandam, Sargam 3, SLokam 14 - 15; 28 - 35

The exquisite and captivating form of the Lord attracts Sri Hanuman as well. He enquires why those broad, handsome shoulders have not been decorated with jewels. Acharyas point out that this question is a reflection of Sri Hanuman's anxiety that no evil should befall the Lord; that those awesome, powerful shoulders must remain unseen by evil eyes! Did Indrajit or Ravana or Kumbhakarna say this when they saw the very same shoulders? Sri Hanuman's naturally Dharmic nature has been enhanced by Seetha Devi's momentary glance!

Also, the praises bestowed by the Lord on Sri Hanuman's power of speech is a treat to any Devotee of Sri Hanuman! Lord Sri Rama heartily appreciates Sri Hanuman's knowledge of Vedhas & Swaras, His grammatical knowledge, sweetness of His speech, pace of His speech, His voice modulation & His perfect body language. He also says that a king with an envoy like Sri Hanuman will always be victorious!

Sri Rama bestows His Ring as a mark of identification Kishkinda Kandam, Sargam 44, Slokam 9 - 12

Acharyas equate the Ring to the Ashtakshara Manthra and Sri Hanuman to a Guru - as metaphors, of course. The Slokas in the Sargam say that Lord Sri Rama placed great faith in Sri Hanuman as He observed the extent of confidence Sugreeva Maharaja reposed in Sri Hanuman's attitude and abilities. Sri Rama's first impression on Sri Hanuman was already discussed above.

Sri Hanuman takes a gigantic form and roars that He would come back by succeeding in the mission Kishkinda Kandam, Sargam 67

Sri Hanuman begins this speech after paying respects to elderly monkeys. He starts His speech of immense self-confidence by eulogizing His Father, Vayu Deva - shows that He hasn't forgotten the source of His great might. Superficially, the speech may sound boastful but Acharyas point out that this is a great Paropakara Dharma done by Sri Hanuman! Weren't the exhausted and frustrated Vanaras contemplating mass suicide just a few hours before? Weren't they bewildered as to how to cross the ocean? Thus every such word spoken by Sri Hanuman gave them all FRESH HOPE and LIFE - so, it's a Dharma. Sri Jambavan also echoes this observation of the Acharyas.

Later, we see that the very same Sri Hanuman tells Seetha Devi [Sundara Kandam, Sarga 39, Slokam 31 - 38] that He is a very ordinary soldier in the retinue of Sugreeva Maharaja and that the others are at least as good as He is or only better than He is. Also, when He meets Vanaras of His troop after returning from Lanka [Sundara Kandam, Sarga 59], He praises the prowess of the Vanaras in detail and energizes the troop with joy and enthusiasm.

Sri Hanuman clears all obstacles and successfully reaches Lanka Sundara Kandam, Sargam 1 - 3, 11

The most morale-boosting Kandam of Srimad Ramayanam begins with a powerfully positive note where Sri Hanuman dashes across the ocean, effortlessly clearing all obstacles en route to Lanka - He reserves His heartwarming speech for Mainaka, His amazing astuteness for Surasa and His awesome daring for Simhika.

The manner in which Sri Hanuman decides when and how to search weighing all pros & cons is a SOLID lesson for all of us and His victory over Lankini is surely a great confidence-enhancer.

During His exhaustive search of Lanka, He happens to see Ravana's beautiful wives when they are fast asleep. Yet His heart remains firmly rooted in Dharma and His Brahmacharya Vratha remains pure. The entire focus of His search is finding one single divine lady - Seetha.

Sri Hanuman prays to Sri Rama, Sri Lakshmana and Seetha Devi for the search to be fruitful Sundara Kandam, Sargam 13

After a mammoth but unsuccessful search effort, a dejected Sri Hanuman considers suicide and even that is for the welfare of others awaiting good news from Him - He didn't want to cause their end! Finally, Sri Hanuman motivates Himself to remain enthusiastic.

And then, a divine inspiration strikes Him - He drops the idea that He is the one who is searching for Seetha Devi. He prays to Sri Rama and Sri Lakshmana and Acharyas point out that He addresses Seetha Devi as 'Janakaathmajaa' thereby requesting Her to reveal Herself the way She revealed Herself to King Janaka [at the time of Her birth]. He immediately spots the Ashoka Vana and the rest is history!






Sri Hanuman - Before and After Seetha Devi's Paripurna Kataksham


Image Credit: https://in.pinterest.com/pin/599752875369616734/


Once Sri Hanuman made that heartfelt prayer and enters the Ashoka Vana, He keenly observes the garden [Sundara Kandam, Sargam 15, Slokas 43 - 45] and easily locates Seetha Devi. He also mentions that She looks exactly like Sri Rama had described Her and also, applies various other logical reasons [including Her jewels, Her garment colour, etc.!] to deduce that She's indeed Seetha Devi. This shows how keen an observer Sri Hanuman is and how efficient He is in recollecting even minute details of what He observes!

Sri Hanuman's Trait Reference [for Before] Before Lakshmi Kataksham Reference [for After] After Lakshmi Kataksham
Manobhava towards Seetha Devi Sundara Kandam, Sargam 15

He says that He had found Sri Ramachandra's immense grief over separation from a wife as an unusual emotion for a valiant Kshathriya.

Note: The equivalent sloka for this does not exist in https://www.valmikiramayan.net but this is found in translation of Srimad Valmiki Ramayanam published by LIFCO and is also quoted by Sri Vaishnava Elders in discourses.

Sundara Kandam, Sargam 15 & 16

After obtaining Darshanam of Seetha Devi, He praises Sri Ramachandra for having managed to stay alive all these months without this most effulgent gem of women! 'It would be absolutely fitting even if the three worlds are turned upside down for the sake of this incomparable, chaste lady,' He exclaims. Acharyas have highlighted that this striking PARADIGM shift in His manobhava towards the Divine Mother marks the beginning of a new, auspicious chapter in the journey of Sri Hanuman's Jivathma.

One can notice that Sri Hanuman's transformation is so striking that He offers salutations to Seetha Devi [even in Her absence] by bowing His head towards the southern direction whenever He ventures to talk about Her - whether it is in front of Vanaras [Sundara Kandam, Sarga 58, Sloka 6] or in front of Sri Rama [Sundara Kandam, Sarga 65, Sloka 7]!

Day in and day out, for several months, Ravana and several cruel Rakshasis were also looking at the very same Seetha Devi - did they emote in the same manner?? Sri Hanuman is indeed a blessed Jivathma!

Dasa Manobhava towards Sri Rama Sundara Kandam, Sargam 34, Slokam 2

Here, He introduces Himself to Seetha Devi by identifying Himself as 'Ramadhootha' i.e. a messenger of Sri Rama.

Sundara Kandam, Sargam 42, Slokam 34

Now, He introduces Himself to Rakshasas by identifying Himself as 'Ramadasa' i.e. a slave of Sri Rama - that is the reflection of the phenomenal transformation His Jivathma has undergone after the above-mentioned paradigm shift. This change firmly launches Sri Hanuman in the glowing galaxy of Devotees of Sri Rama.

Display of courage without external motivation Kishkinda Kandam, Sargam 66

Sri Jambavan had to narrate the story of His birth and the story of His special boons to make Him undertake the arduous task of crossing the ocean.

Sundara Kandam, Sargam 40 - 48

Now, without any EXTERNAL motivation, Sri Hanuman decides to demolish Ashokavana to enrage Ravana; to pick up a fight with Rakshasas so as to meet Ravana! Thus the curse that He'd realize His valour only when reminded is broken because of the grace of the Mother of the Universe. He vanquishes several Rakshasas [who held important positions in Ravana's regiment] in the ensuing battle and strikes terror in Ravana's heart.

Facing Ravana Sundara Kandam, Sargam 18, Slokam 31

When He watches Ravana marching towards the tree where Seetha Devi is stationed, Sri Hanuman says to Himself that He will not be in a position to face the radiance emitted by Ravana [thejas] and hides Himself behind the leaves of the trees in Ashokavana.

Sundara Kandam, Sargam 50

Standing right in front of Ravana, who was seated in his throne, and completely surrounded by deadliest Rakshasa enemies, an utterly unfazed Sri Hanuman, in a calm, polite and firm tone, tells Ravana every single fact the lust-intoxicated and easily-angered demon hates to face.

Realization of Divine Grace in events Sundara Kandam, Sargam 4 - 12

He searches meticulously without any hint whatsoever about Seetha Devi's whereabouts in Lanka but finally, in a moment of deep realization, prays to Her and finds Her!

Sundara Kandam, Sargam 55, Slokam 38

When He notices that His tail has not been burnt at all despite it being set on fire, His realization of divine grace is IMMEDIATE - He remembers with gratitude that He's unharmed due to Seetha Devi's compassion, Sri Ramachandra's grace and His Father's bosom friendship with Agni. It's interesting to note the ordering of the reasons - Divine Mother first, the Paramathma next and then His beloved Father who gave Him this birth.

Attitude towards Lanka Sundara Kandam, Sargam 4 - 8

Several times, He appreciates the enormous prosperity of Lanka.

Sundara Kandam, Sargam 53 - 55

He observes every nook and corner of Lanka so that He can report to Sri Rama and, in Yuddha Kandam, we can see that He clearly reports all that He observed to Sri Rama!

Already enraged by the tormenting fire of grief that Mother Seetha Devi is undergoing, He sets Lanka on fire including Ravana's palace [and excluding Sri Vibhishana's palace] - a brave feat that none had dared to perform till then. Even when He panics that the fire might have harmed Seetha Devi and censures Himself very severely, He then appropriately reminds Himself that Seetha Devi is a blazing fire [of impeccable chastity] Herself. 'If Her grace has protected me from being burnt, how can She be burnt?' He reasons and divine beings called Charanas put His fears to rest by exclaiming that Seetha Devi is still alive despite the devastating fire.

Prayer before embarking on the journey Sundara Kandam, Sargam 1, Slokam 8

He salutes Surya, Indra, Vayu, Brahma and Bhutas before He leaps on to the sky to cross the ocean [and reach Lanka].

Sundara Kandam, Sargam 56, Slokas 8, 9 & 21

In the return journey, He meets Seetha Devi and pays obeisances to Her. And then, the slokas indicate that Sri Hanuman was anxious to meet His Lord Sri Rama - an interesting change of focus indicating a clearly heightened sense of devotion towards Sri Rama [when compared to His mindset when He began His great mission].






Key Feats of Sri Hanuman - After Divya Dhampathi Paripurna Anugraham


Image Credit: https://in.pinterest.com/pin/4714774599458302/


Reference: Yuddha Kandam, Sargam 1, Slokam 11 - 14

Sri Rama's Divine Embrace: Of all the wonderful gifts Lakhsmi Kataksham ever conferred on Sri Hanuman, this is indeed the BEST of all - a hearty, affectionate embrace by none other than the Paramathma! The Lord praises Sri Hanuman as 'Utthama Sevaka' [the best servant] and as one who saved His entire dynasty!! What can be a greater gift to a Jivathma - especially for a Jivathma sporting the Dasa Manobhava?


Event Yuddha Kandam Reference Brief Description
Clarity of thought in supporting Vibhishana [a true Devotee] Sargam 17

Despite strong opposition from other Vanara leaders to let Sri Vibhishana join their side, Sri Hanuman alone respectfully communicates that Sri Vibhishana is faultless. He also substantiates His claim with His observations regarding Sri Vibhishana's truthful body language. Sri Hanuman also mentions that Sri Rama would know what's best and He speaks only because Sri Rama asked His views.

Effortlessly bringing the Sanjeevani mountain from Himalayas to Sri Lanka and placing it back Sargam 74, Slokam 64 & 65

Sri Jambavan orders Him to do so - despite hearing words of HIGHEST praise from the veteran, Sri Hanuman remains modest, respectfully touches the feet of the elderly bear and leaves for the Himalayas. What an inspiring personality indeed!

Sri Hanuman uproots the entire mountain because He's angered that the divine herbs refused to reveal themselves despite Sri Rama [acting like a human] is in need of their service. His only focus is Sri Rama's welfare.

Finding it easy to lift an unconscious Sri Lakshmana Sargam 59, Slokam 110 - 118

When Sri Lakshmana falls unconscious in battle, Ravana is unable to lift Him and leaves the field. Whereas, Sri Hanuman lifts the very same Sri Lakshmana as He would lift a feather, thereby proving that He's indeed a true Devotee.

Delivering message to Seetha Devi about Sri Rama's victory Sargam 113

Seetha Devi showers excellent words of praise on Sri Hanuman at this juncture and Her words are a treat to any Devotee of Sri Hanuman! Sri Hanuman sincerely responds that Her words of affection are His real precious gems.

Even when She asks what She could for Him in return, the completely selfless Sri Rama Bhaktha, who is greatly attached to His Mother Seetha Devi, says that He wants to beat up those Rakshasis who had tormented Mother Seetha. Only a truly devoted son would say that!

Saves Sri Bharatha's life [also!] Sargam 125 - 126

Apart from rejuvenating the elixir of life for the Lord, the Divine Mother, Sri Lakshmana and the Vanaras on various occasions, Sri Hanuman also succeeds in saving Sri Bharatha's life by preventing Him from jumping into fire. He assuages Sri Bharatha that Sri Rama is nearby and would indeed arrive soon.

Here, Sri Hanuman took His time to deliver the sweet news to Sri Bharatha to ensure that the sudden surge of extreme joy doesn't prove fatal to His life [and indeed Sri Bharatha faints when the news is gradually delivered!].

When He meets a very highly stressed Seetha Devi for the first time, He chose to first make Her hear Him narrating Sri Rama's Charithram [including the meeting with Vanaras] and then descends from the tree to make a humble appearance in front of Her!

When He was nearing those Vanaras anxiously awaiting His return from Lanka, He sends out loud, triumphant roars [even before they could see Him] so that they will know that the mission was successful!

When He delivered news about Him finding Seetha Devi to Sri Rama, He said 'Seen by me, the chaste Seetha Devi is well' and ensured that an extremely anxious Sri Rama heard the word 'seen' first!

What a BRILLIANT customization of approach according to the situation and the listener's state of mind!!

Pearl necklace gifted by the Divya Dhampathi Sargam 128, Slokam 78 - 83

Both Seetha Devi and Sri Ramachandra gift Sri Hanuman with a pearl necklace and praise Him that "sharpness, firmness, renown, dexterity, competence, modesty, prudence, virility, prowess and intelligence are ever-present" in Sri Hanuman! Is any other evidence required at all to understand the greatness of Sri Hanuman?






Reason Behind Sri Hanuman's Great Fortune


Image Credit: https://in.pinterest.com/pin/416301559319067436/


So, what was special about Sri Hanuman? What distinguishes Him from the rest of the Vanaras? Why wasn't say Sugreeva Maharaja or Angada blessed thus?

The Wonderful Observation of the Glorious Sri Vaishnava Acharyas

Reference: Kishkinda Kanda, Sarga 8

तस्य एकाम् पर्ण बहुलाम् शाखाम् भंक्त्वा सुशोभिताम् |रामस्य आस्तीर्य सुग्रीवो निषसाद स राघवः ||

And Sugreeva Maharaja broke off one branch of that sala tree that is with many leaves and a well-charming one, and spreading it out for Rama, he sat on it with Raghava.

तौ आसीनौ ततः दृष्ट्वा हनूमान् अपि लक्ष्मणम् | साल शाखाम् समुत्पाट्य विनीतम् उपवेशयत् ||

On seeing those two sitting on a branch then Hanuma also broke a branch of sala tree for the modest Lakshmana and seated Lakshmana on it.

Sri Lakshmana was so very deferential to Sri Ramachandra that He'd never occupy the same seat as that of Sri Rama. Sri Hanuman had not only wisely understood the modest nature of Sri Lakshmana but also was thoughtful enough to offer Sri Lakshmana a seat [unlike Sugreeva Maharaja, who had not noticed that Sri Lakshmana had no seat].

This single act of Hanuman, symbolizing respect and care for Sri Lakshmana, caught the attention of Sri Ramachandra!

Sri Lakshmana is a Maha Bhagavatha [a very great Devotee of the Paramathma] and any service done, knowingly or unknowingly, to pure Devotees of the Lord will CERTAINLY bestow auspicious progress for a Jivathma. And, this is why Sri Hanuman reached the exalted status of being the [central] ruby stone in the garland of Srimad Ramayanam!




Conclusion


Celebrating a Devotee confers auspicious boons. Likewise, censuring / insulting a Devotee incurs severe demerit. Thereby, one must exercise extraordinary caution when speaking about Devotees of the Paramathma - apart from the purity of intent, even choice of words and tone of communication must be majestic and respectful. Speaking about Their pre-transformation blemishes needs extreme care. Complex forms of writing like Nindha Sthuthi, especially when it comes to Devotees, are best avoided or must be left to the highly elite among the learned. Given the nature of our education patterns, our attempt may end up disastrous.

Image Credit: https://in.pinterest.com/pin/511580838932065549/


Even when Sri Rama asks Sri Hanuman to accompany Him to Sri Vaikunta [Paramapadham], Sri Hanuman refuses. He is so immersed in the enthralling Divine Form of Sri Rama that He does not want to see the Lord as even Sri Paramapadhanatha! He chooses to stay in Leela Vibuthi until Srimad Ramayanam is read and until Sri Rama Nama Sankeerthanam is performed. Such is the steadfastness of Sri Hanuman's devotion to Sri Rama. Worshipping Sri Rama is complete only when one pays due obeisances to Sri Rama's most wonderful Devotee, Sri Hanuman. Let us always only celebrate the glories of this fantastic Sri Rama Bhaktha.




Monday, 13 August 2018

Sri Andal Thiru Avathara Vaibhavam


Sri Andal Thiru Avathara Vaibhavam


Image Credit: Sri @vishnuprabhanc Avl


Introduction


When a Deity descends to make Himself / Herself easily accessible to Bhakthas, it is called an Avatharam.

Sri Andal [आण्दाळ्] is an Avatharam of Sri Bhoomi Devi [Presiding Deity of Bhooloka, the Earth], the Consort of Sriman Narayana.

The Divya Charithram of Sri Andal in a nutshell is as follows:

  • Srivilliputhur [श्रीविल्लिपुत्तूर्] is a Sri Varaha Kshetram near Madurai, Thamizh Nadu.

  • Sri Vishnuchitthar, an exalted Dasa of Sriman Narayana took birth and lived in Srivilliputhur - He was an Azhwar [आल्वार्], one who had received flawless divine knowledge due to the special grace of Sriman Narayana. He's also known as Sri Periyazhwar, the great Azhwar [who sang Mangalam for Sriman Narayana].

  • Sri Vishnuchitthar established a Nandavanam [garden] and offered garlands of beautiful, fragrant flowers to Sri Vatapathrashayee of the Srivilliputhur Kshetram.

  • Sri Vishnuchitthar had no progeny. In the year Nala of Kaliyuga and the star Poorvaphalguni of Ashada month, Sri Vishnuchitthar found a divine, radiant baby girl under the Thulasivanam of His Nandavanam. He sensed the divinity in the child and named Her 'Godha' [गोदा, 'Kothai' in Thamizh]. He had been gifted with the divine child for His selfless service!

  • He taught Her about Sri Krishna and the child was far more devoted than the Father. She refused to marry a human and declared that She would marry none but Sri Ranganatha Perumal of Srirangam.

  • She dreamt of Her marriage to Sri Ranganatha Perumal and adorned Herself with very same garland that Her Father had woven for Sri Vatapathrashayee to check if She is beautiful enough to marry the handsome Sri Ranganatha Perumal - a daily event that Her Father was not aware of!

  • When Her Father came to know of this, He didn't offer the used garland to Sri Vatapathrashayee but Sri Vatapathrashayee declared in Sri Periyazhwar's dream that He'd rather wear the garland donned by Godha as it is infinitely more fragrant than a fresh garland! This is when Godha is named Andal [the one who ruled none other than Sriman Narayana Himself] by Her Father Sri Vishnuchitthar.

  • In a dream, Sri Ranganatha Perumal instructed Sri Vishnuchitthar to bring Godha to Srirangam where He'd marry Her and also, instructed the ruler of the Pandya land, Srivallabhadeva to make appropriate arrangements to escort Godha to Srirangam.

  • When the entourage [comprising of all residents of Srivilliputthur!] reached Srirangam, Sri Godha walked into the Sanctum Sanctorum, climbed up the recline of Sri Ranganatha Perumal [Sri Adishesha, the serpent] and vanished as She merged with Her beloved Sri Ranganatha Perumal.





Sri Andal Thiru Avathara Rahasyam


When the Asura Hiranyaksha had submerged Sri Bhoomi Devi in the waters of the Avarana, Sriman Narayana had descended by taking Sri Varaha Avatharam [Varaha, the wild boar] and rescued Sri Bhoomi Devi by vanquishing the Asura.

The conversation between Sri Varaha and Sri Bhoomi Devi is the Varaha Purana, one of the 18 Puranas. During this divine conversation, Sri Bhoomi Devi requested Sri Varaha to reveal an easy way for Her children [Jivathmas like us] to reach His Feet [and thereby attain liberation from the cycle of life-death and serve Him in Sri Vaikunta, His Abode]. In response, Sri Varaha had revealed that the following 3 teachings are to be followed by us:

1. Chant His Divine Names

2. Meditate on His Divine Form

3. Offer Him fresh flowers as a mark of love

The prime objective of the Thiru Avatharam of Andal, an Avatharam of Sri Bhoomi Devi, is to reveal these three teachings to the world. A direct Shishya of Swami Ramanuja, Sri Ananthacharya, has mentioned this Avathara Rahasyam [the divine secret behind an Avatharam] in His work on Andal titled 'Godha Chatushloki.' Godha is the Sanskrit name of Andal.

Indeed, in the 5th Pasuram of Her most famous work Thiruppaavai [तिरुप्पावै], Andal has revealed all the above-mentioned ways to reach the abode of Sriman Narayana and serve Him and His Dasas.




Sri Andal's Instruction to Sing Sriman Narayana's Names


Sri Parashara Bhattar, a great Acharya of Swami Ramanujacharya Darshana Guru Parampara, has revealed the fantastic secret behind this musical instruction of Sri Andal.

A part of the Varaha Purana is the Kaishika Purana. This concise Purana consists of 92 shlokas and reveals the greatness of a most wonderful Bhaktha of Sriman Narayana.

In the days of yore, there lived a Bhaktha [whose name has not been mentioned in the Purana] of Sriman Narayana who meticulously followed the doctrines of the Ekadashi Vratha. In the day, He would fast and meditate on His beloved Sriman Narayana. In the night, He would go to the Sri Vamana Kshethram in the southern part of Thamizh Nadu [more popularly spelt as Tamil Nadu]. This Kshethram is known as Thirukkurungudi [तिरुक्कुरुन्गुडि] and is one of the 108 Dhivyadesams i.e. Vishnu Kshethrams glorified by the Divine Hymns of Azhwars.

In the Purana, Sri Varaha refers to this Bhaktha as "mama gaayaka:" [मम गायक:] i.e. the one who sings my glories. Sri Parashara Bhattar translated this very phrase in Thamizh and named the Bhaktha as 'Sri Nampaduvan' [pronounced as nam-paa-du-vaan, नंपाडुवान्].

Sri Nampaduvan had taken birth in the Chandala community and was not allowed to enter the Temple premises. He would thereby stand right opposite to the Temple and sing the glories of Sriman Narayana as an absolutely selfless service.

10 years had passed by. On yet another such Ekadashi night of the eighth month of Karthika, in the Shukla Paksha, Sri Nampaduvan was on His way to render His usual service to Sriman Narayana of Thirukkurungudi. However, He was stopped by a hungry Brahmarakshasa, who roared that he would devour Sri Nampaduvan to satiate his intense hunger.

An unperturbed Sri Nampaduvan merely said that He would surely offer His body to satiate the hunger of the demon but requested the demon to wait until dawn, so that He will be able to complete the service of singing the glories of Sriman Narayana!

The Brahmarakshasa scoffed at Sri Nampaduvan's request and refused to trust Him. Sri Nampaduvan took 18 vows and declared that He would incur sins of various kinds if He does not keep up His word to the Brahmarakshasa. In the 18th vow, Sri Nampaduvan declared that He'd languish in Samsara like one who doesn't [on purpose] acknowledge Sriman Narayana as ParaBrahman. The demon was truly impressed by the knowledge and conviction of Sri Nampaduvan, offered his salutations and agreed to wait until Sri Nampaduvan returns from Thirukkurungudi after performing His service.

Sri Nampaduvan performed His usual service and, just before He commenced His journey to meet His end at the hands of the Brahmarakshasa, He longed to have a glimpse of Sri Nambi Perumal of Thirukkurungudi and lo, the Dhwajasthambha of the Temple moved sideways so that the glorious Bhaktha could have the darshan of Sri Nambi Perumal even as He stood outside the Temple. Even to this day, one can witness the moved Dhwajasthambha at this Kshethram!

In order to keep up His word, the noble Sri Nampaduvan began to walk at an enhanced pace towards the place where He had met the Brahmarakshasa. On His way, a man stopped Him and enquired the reason for His hurried pace. When Sri Nampaduvan explained the truth, the man advised Him to ignore the vows made when His very life was endangered. Sri Nampaduvan said that His innate nature would never utter falsehood and proceeded with His journey after taking leave of the man. The man was none other than Sriman Narayana in such disguise, who had tested His beloved Bhaktha's steadfastness. Overjoyed, He conferred His exceptional grace on both the Brahmarakshasa and Sri Nampaduvan.

Sri Nampaduvan went back to the place where the Brahmarakshasa awaited His return and asked the demon to devour Him. The intrigued demon offered to leave Sri Nampaduvan if He offered the merits earned by singing the glories of Sriman Narayana throughout the Ekadashi night. Despite repeated entreaties, Sri Nampaduvan plainly refused to trade the merits of His selfless service - even when the tempting offer in return was that He could save His life.

Realizing that Sri Nampaduvan's integrity and devotion are impeccable, the demon sought refuge in the divine feet of Sri Nampaduvan and beseeched Sri Nampaduvan to save him from the agony of being a Brahmarkshasa, an existence plagued by insatiable hunger and thirst. Moved by the plight of the demon who had sought His refuge, Sri Nampaduvan bestowed the merit He had accrued by singing a devotional song in Kaishika Raga. The demon, who was granted relief from the painful existence, took birth in a glorious lineage, became a Bhaktha of Sriman Narayana and attained Moksha at the end of that birth.

Sriman Narayana granted Sri Nampaduvan a long sojourn in Indraloka but Sri Nampaduvan never wavered from His supreme focus on Sriman Narayana. He even made the residents of Swarga forget their pleasure-filled lifestyle and listen to the glories of Sriman Narayana! Immensely pleased, Sriman Narayana granted Moksha to Sri Nampaduvan.

When Sri Bhoomi Devi listened to the wonderful life history of Sri Nampaduvan as narrated by Her Consort, She was greatly delighted. This is the reason why She instructed us to sing the names of Sriman Narayana!




The Eminence Exclusive to Sri Andal


Ever since Her birth, Sri Andal was soaked in the Bhakthi Bhava [भक्ति भाव] of a Nayika [नायिका] i.e. a state of mind where the Jivathma offers its entire being - heart, body and soul - to the Paramathma as a chaste wife would offer to her husband. This Bhava is also known as the Radha Madhava Madhura Bhava [राधा माधव मधुर भाव].

She steadily maintained this Madhura Bhava throughout Her Avatharam. As She was indeed the consort of Sriman Narayana, this should not be a surprise.

"I would rather give up my life than marry a mere mortal; I shall offer my Athma and Sharira only to the Purushotthama, who bears the Divine Discus [Sudharshana] and the Divine Conch [Panchajanya]," She declares in Her work titled 'Nachiyar Thirumozhi.' [नाच्चियार् तिरुमोळि] This is the intensity of Her Bhava and this was rightly rewarded by Sri Ranganatha Perumal, whom She pined for, as He had accepted Her hand in marriage at Srirangam and Sri Andal merged with Sri Ranganatha Perumal, much to the joy and awe of Her noble Father Sri Vishnuchitthar and all others assembled there. Thus Her chastity is purest at all levels - heart, body and Athma.

In Her Divine composition, the famous 'Thiruppavai,' She assumes that She is a Gopika of Vrindavana. Also, the Acharyas of Swami Ramanuja Darshana reveal that She has explained the protocol a Sharanagatha interested in Moksha must follow to receive the grace of Sriman Narayana:

1. She first requests all other interested Bhaagavathaas to join Her in Her journey to the palace of Sri Nandagopala [to serve Sri Krishna] - Pasuram 6 to Pasuram 15

2. Then She [indirectly] reveals that one must first receive the grace of Acharyas led by Swami Ramanujacharya and that of the Nithyasuris [Sri Vaikunta Vaasis] before reaching Sri Krishna - Pasurams 16 and 17

3. In the next step, She reveals that one must then receive the grace of Shree [Mahalakshmi Devi] before appealing to Sri Krishna - Pasurams 18, 19 and 20

4. Then [as a true daughter of the great Sri Vishnuchitthar] She offers heartfelt benedictions to Sri Krishna [and thereby instructs us to do the same]

5. Finally, She declares that She's an eternal servant of Sriman Narayana, that She'd uninterruptedly serve none but Him and requests Him to bless Her with uninterrupted service [indicating that we too must adopt this attitude]

6. She concludes the beautiful set of 30 Pasurams by blessing that those who recite the same would receive the most coveted Lakshmi Kataksham by the grace of Sriman Narayana.




Sri Manavala Mamunigal's Beautiful Tribute to Sri Andal


In Sri Upadesharathnamalai Pasurams 22, 23, 24, Sri Manavala Mamunigal has highlighted Sri Andal Vaibhavam:
Let us enjoy some happy, key points in these pasurams as explained in the Vyakhyanam by the incomparable Sri Pillailokam Jeeyar:
  1. Sri Andal's Avatharam is for us:

    Even if the Queen is royally entitled to enjoy the comforts of the flowery, soft bed that belongs to the King, she'd ignore the comforts and rather stay beside the cradle where her baby lies. Will any mother enjoy pleasures when her child is struggling inside a deep well? Won't she jump inside that well to save the child? Likewise, Sri Andal ignored the comforts offered by Paramapadham [Sri Vaikunta Lokam] & descended as Kodhai. She's Bhudevi & Bhulokam is Her world.

  2. She is Azhwar Thirumagalaar:

    When Sri Periyazhwar's Dharmapathni Srimathi Virajaa held Sri Andal baby in Her hands, Her breasts were filled with mother's milk. This can happen only for a biological mother! That's why Sri Andal is celebrated as "periyAzhwAr petreduttha peNNpiLLai" - not a foster daughter but a daughter in every sense of the word. Both the Father and the Daughter have celebrated this priceless relationship. Sri Andal identifies Herself as His Daughter and Shishyai in every single prabandham She sang. "bhattarpiraan kOdhai", as She addresses Herself, worshipped Sri Krishna only because Her Acharya and Her Father Sri Vishnuchitthar guided Her to do so.

    Sri Periyazhwar says [Sri Periyazhwar Thirumozhi, 3-8-4]:

  3. She is the single Heiress of Anjukkudi:

    The word "anju" in Thamizh could mean the number 5 or the emotion of fear.

    As Mudhalazhwargal can be counted as 1 due to Their inseperable friendship, Andal was preceded by 5 Azhwars. She's Their Heiress. She received all Their bhakthi and jnanam as sthri dhanam!!

    Also, Sri Periyazhwar is someone who constantly sings Mangalam for Sriman Narayana due to the fear that some evil may befall Him!! She's the scion of such a glorious lineage.

  4. She exceeds Azhwars in Jnanam, Bhakthi & Anushtanam:

    a. She sang in 100 % Naayikaa Bhaavam only

    b. She starts Her very first prabandham by inviting all Bhaagavathaas [Pasuram 1-15], wakes up Acharyas and Nithyasuris [Pasuram 16-17], Shree Mahalakshmi [Pasuram 18 - 20] and only then wakes up Sriman Narayana. Other Azhwars attained this jnanam [not only regarding the protocol to be followed to obtain the grace of Sriman Narayana but also the jnanam regarding the greatness of Dasas of Sriman Narayana and how They must be placed above even Sriman Narayana] only with time.

    c. She went to the extent of worshipping Manmatha in upasana margam to attain Sriman Narayana!! Zenith of desperation because Sri Vaishnavas, who are Sharanagathas / Prapannas, don't do upasana and don't worship any Devatha other than Sriman Narayana.

  5. She exhibited the highest level of jnanam and bhakthi at the tender age of 5:

    A flower becomes a budding fruit, a raw fruit and then finally, ripens. Likewise, a Jivathma gets parabhakthi, then parajnAnam, then paramabhakthi & then, finally, thadheeya sEshathvam [i.e. subservience to Dasas of Sriman Narayana]. What other Azhwars had achieved when time ripened was achieved by Andal by birth! She had no phased transformation!




Conclusion

  • Sri Godha is held in very high esteem in Sri Ramanuja Darshanam.

  • Several Acharyas have written commentaries for Sri Andal's Thiruppavai. Swami Ramanujacharya was a very ardent Bhaktha of Thiruppavai and used to recite the golden Pasurams when He went for Maadhukaram. His devotion to Thiruppavai earned Him the title of 'Thiruppavai Jeeyar.'

  • Swami Ramanujacharya had commented thus about Sri Andal's Works: "Only Sri Godha is qualified to sing this and only She is eligible to hear this as well." Such was His devotion and respect for the Pasurams of Thiruppavai and Nachiyar Thirumozhi.




Gratitude to http://www.acharya.org/wp/ for pasuram quotations!