Pictures are taken from various sources for spreading knowledge.
this is a non- commercial blog. Thanks for your great pictures.
tamilandvedas.com, swamiindology.blogspot.com
xxxx
I was lucky to visit Pratyangira Devi Temple in Ayyavadi ,very near Kumbakonam , in Tamil Nadu. Earlier I had visited Pratyangira Devi Temple in Raja Kilpauk near Tambaram, Chennai. Swami Santhanada of Pudukottai installed Sarabeswarar and Pratyangira Devi in Skandashram near Tambaram. I visited the temple twice in the past few years. In Skandashram, the statues are huge. But in Ayyavadi it is of normal size.
Pratyangira Devi is another form of Bhadrakali or Durga. In Ayyavadi, it is part of a thousand year old Shiva temple known as Agastheewarar Temple. When I went there on March 12, 2026 main Shiva temple was closed for renovation work. But I had good darshan of Pratyangira Devi in the same temple compound. One can feel the divine atmosphere there.
People believe that worshipping Her, they can destroy the evil forces. Those who want to win in some cases or to defeat their enemies go there and do Puja or Yaga.
On New moon days special Yagas/fire ceremonies are organised. In this temple, there are idols of Goddess Lakshmi and Sarswathy placed nearby the idol of Goddess Pratyangira. Goddess Lakshmi is standing in her Pratyangira form and also in her normal form.
H Krishna Sastri in his book South Indian Images of Gods and Goddesses (year 1916) adds the following details:
Pratyangira has four arms and a face as terrible as that of a lion. Her hair stands erect on her head. In her hands she holds a skull, trident, kettledrum and the noose (naaga paasa). She is seated on a lion and by her power destroys all enemies.
He has published tow pictures and he says, “The lion vehicle is missing in the Tirupparaithurai bronze. The Tiruchengodu statue has the sword and shield in place of skull and noose. And a breast band like Durga. Both are called Bhadrakaali by the people”.
***
In the Skandasramam book, following information is given:
Angiras and Prathyangiras were the two ascetics who found out the mantra of this deity. The potency of the mantra is so high that one should not have any ill feelings towards the one who chants it.
She had sent Veerabhdra to violently interrupt and break up the sacrificial fire performed by Daksha, accompanied by Pratyangira. The mantras tell us she is but the embodiment of the wrath of Parvathi.
As Indrajit (in Ramayana) felt that he could not defeat Rama and Lakshmana in the battle, he got up to a sacrificial fire with the chanting of the Pratyangira mantra in the Nigumbala. On knowing this Lakshmana went there and broke it up”.
The book gives also the Mantras for this deity in Sanskrit. Any one interested in it may go through the book. It is in Devanagari lipi. ( I have one copy of the book)
Chennai Sri Skandasramam
Splendour and Vision
Published by Swayamprakasa Awadhuta Trust, Pudukkottai.
Available in Chennai, Salem and Pudukottai where the trust have centres.
***
Larousse Encyclopedia of Mythology published by Hamlyn has a colour picture of the goddess with the following caption:
“Durga Pratyangira: one of the terrifying forms assumed by Siva’s wife.The goddess is seated on a jewelled Padmasana holding her husband’s trident, sword and drum and a bowl for blood. Her name, in this south Indian representation, has Tantric associations while her form as Kaali is seen in the long teeth and the tongues of fire. Kali in Vedic times is the name of Fire God’s black terrifying flame. (Tricinopoly Painting, Nineteenth Century A D)”
***
In the Shaiva tradition, Shiva assumed the form of Sharabha, a bird-lion hybrid form with two wings of Shakti in the form of Shulini Devi and Pratyangira Devi to calm down Narasimha. Seeing this, Narasimha created Gandaberunda, a powerful two-headed bird, to fight Sharabha. Seeing that the fight between Sharabha and Gandaberunda was terrorizing the world, Pratyangira in her ugra form was released from the third eye of Sharabha. The war ended with Pratyangira’s roar. Narasimha resumed his Satvik form, and thus Dharma in the world was restored.
***
Wisdom lib.org gives following information about the goddess:
Pratyangira is endowed with four arms and a face as terrible as that of a lion. Her head is that of a male lion and her body is that of a human-female. Her hair stands erect on her head. In her hands she holds a skull, trident, Damaru and the noose (nagapasa). She is seated on a lion and by her power destroys all enemies.
In Tantric worship, Pratyangira is shown with a dark complexion, ferocious in aspect, having a lion’s face with reddened eyes and riding a lion wearing black garments, she wears a garland of human skulls; her hair strands on end, and she holds a trident, a serpent in the form of a noose, a hand-drum and a skull in her four hands. She is also associated with Bhairava, as Atharvana-Bhadra-Kali.
Pratyaṅgirā (प्रत्यङ्गिरा) is a form of Kālī and identified with Goddess Tvaritā, according to the Kulakaulinīmata verse 3.310.—Tvaritā is also identified as Pratyaṅgirā, a form of Kālī.
–subham—
Tags- Pratyangira devi, Ayyavadi temple, Chennai Skandasram temple, London swaminathan , images of Pratyangira
Pictures are taken from various sources for spreading knowledge.
this is a non- commercial blog. Thanks for your great pictures.
tamilandvedas.com, swamiindology.blogspot.com
xxxx
When I went to the famous Uppliappan Vishnu temple near Kumbakonam on 12-3-2026, I had good and free darshan quickly. Since first two weeks in March are exam season in India, less crowd was seen in all the temples. I was very much impressed by the big wall paintings of 12 alvars, 10 Vishnu avatars and 108 Divya Kshetras of Vishnu. I took lot of pictures, yet I could not take all the shrines portrayed on the wall.
One of the 12 Alvars was Andal, the teenage poetess as well as a great saint. Her 30 Tamil verses known as Tiruppaavai used to echo in all the temple streets of Tamil Nadu in the month of Maarkazi (Margasirsa in Bhagavad Gita; Dec-January in English calendar) every year. As a person who lived Near Krishnan Kovil in North Masi Street, Madurai for quarter of a century, I knew most of the verses by heart, which were broadcast around 4-30 am. The pictures on the wall of Uppiliappan temple inspired me to go through the three different English translations of Tiruppaavai by American Tamil Scholar Kausalya Hart, PR Ramachander and Dr Chenni Padmanabhan M D, a great devotee of Sri Sathya Sai Baba. I have collected the translations from the Project Madurai website and books. Please read them together with the Tamil original and enjoy!
Kausalya Harts’ Translation from Project Madurai
Aṇḍal.: Thiruppāvai (474 -503 of Divya Prabandham)
1.
மார்கழித் திங்கள் மதிநிறைந்த நன்னாளால்!
நீராடப் போதுவீர் போதுமினோ நேரிழையீர்!
சீர்மல்கும் ஆய்ப்பாடிச் செல்வச் சிறுமீர்காள்!
கூர்வேல் கொடுந்தொழிலன் நந்தகோபன் குமரன்
ஏரார்ந்த கண்ணி யசோதை இளம்சிங்கம்
கார்மேனிச் செங்கண் கதிர் மதியம் போல்முகத்தான்
நாராயணனே நமக்கே பறை தருவான்
பாரோர் புகழப் படிந்தேலோர் எம்பாவாய்
Girls waking up their friends.
474. The girls come and wake up their friends. They say, “Today is the auspicious full moon day of Markazhi month. O you adorned with beautiful ornaments, let us go bathe. Come! We are the beloved young girls of the flourishing cowherd village. Nārāyaṇan, the son of Nandagopan, who looks after the cows with a sharp spear, the young lion of lovely-eyed Yashoda with a dark body, beautiful eyes and a face bright as the shining moon will give us the Paṛai. Come and let us bathe and worship our Pāvai as the world praises him.”
***
Mr P R Ramachander’s Translation
1
In this month of Marghazhi[1] On this day filled with the light of moon, Come for bathing, Oh ladies who are richly dressed, And Oh ladies in rich homes of cowherds, For he with the sharp spear, He who kills his enemies without mercy, He who is the son of Nanda gopa[2] He who is the darling son of Yasodha[3] Who wore scented flower garlands, He who is a lion cub, He who is pretty in black colour, He who has small red eyes, He who has a face like the well-lit moon, And He, who is our Lord Narayana[4] Is going to give us big drums, So that we bathe and worship Our Goddess Pavai, In a way that the whole world sings about.
***
Dr Chenni Padmanabhan’s Translation
It’s Margali month, moon replete and the day is proper
We shall bathe, girls of Ayarpadi prosperous
Will you move out? You wealthy adorned fine jewels,
Narayana, son of relentless Nandagopala,
Whose job wielding a spike ever alert and
The lion cub of Yasoda with eye gracious
And the lad with dark complexion, handsome eye
And face sunny bright pleasant as moon
Sure shall grant us the desire soon
To the esteem of this earth as a boon
Oblige, involve, listen and consider, our damsel.
***
2
வையத்து வாழ்வீர்காள்! நாமும் நம் பாவைக்குச்
செய்யும் கிரிசைகள் கேளீரோ!
பாற்கடலுள் பையத் துயின்ற பரமன் அடிபாடி,
நெய்யுண்ணோம்; பாலுண்ணோம்; நாட்காலை நீராடி
மையிட்டெழுதோம்; மலரிட்டு நாம் முடியோம்;
செய்யாதன செய்யோம்; தீக்குறளைச் சென்றோதோம்;
ஐயமும் பிச்சையும் ஆந்தனையும் கைகாட்டி
உய்யுமா றெண்ணி உகந்தேலோர் எம் பாவாய். (2)
475. The girls come to wake up their friends. They say, “O people of the world! Hear how we worship our pāvai. We worship the feet of the highest lord resting on the milky ocean. We don’t eat ghee, we don’t drink milk, we bathe early in the morning, we don’t put kohl to darken our eyes, we don’t decorate our hair with flowers, we don’t do evil things, we don’t gossip. We give alms to all beggars and sages. Come and let us be happy and worship our Pāvai.”
***
2
Oh, people of this world, Be pleased to hear of those penances, That we daily do for the worship of Pavai, We will sing of those holy feet, Of Him who sleeps in the ocean of milk[5] We will not take the very tasty ghee, We will avoid the health giving milk, We will daily bathe before the dawn, We will not wear any collyrium[6] We will not tie flowers in our hair, We will not do Any act that is banned, We will not talk ill of any to any one else, We will give alms and do charity, As much as we can, And do all those acts to make others free of sorrow, And worship our Goddess Pavai.
***
You who enjoy life on earth, listen!
The rituals for deity go through we duteous.
Chant the foot of the Supremo who had
Reposed in stealth on the ocean milky;
Bathe we early; relish not ghee or milk
Nor would kemp, nor adorn with flower beauteous;
Grace not with eyeliner; nor bids forbidden.
Nor go around ear kiss tale or malicious gossip
Help the worthy and poor utmost by giftd or alms tossed
With mind pleasant, study the chores engrossed
Listen and consider our damsel.
***
3
ஓங்கி உலகளந்த உத்தமன் பேர்பாடி
நாங்கள் நம் பாவைக்குச் சாற்றி நீர் ஆடினால்,
தீங்கின்றி நாடெல்லாம் திங்கள் மும்மாரி பெய்து
ஓங்கு பெருஞ்செந்நெநெல் ஊடு கயல் உகளப்
பூங்குவளைப் போதில் பொறிவண்டு கண் படுப்பத்,
தேங்காதே புக்கிருந்து சீர்த்த முலைபற்றி வாங்கக்
குடம் நிறைக்கும் வள்ளல் பெரும் பசுக்கள்
நீங்காத செல்வம் நிறைந்தேலோர் எம் பாவாய். (3)
476. The girls come to wake up their friends. They say, “Let us sing and praise the name of the virtuous lord who measured the world with his tall form and let us decorate our Pāvai and bathe it. If we do that, rain will fall three times a month without fail all over our land, paddy in the fields will flourish, fish will frolic in the fields, bees will sleep on the buds of the kuvaḷai blossoms and the cows will not hide their milk but yield generously to fill up the pots when the cowherds milk them. Let riches be abundant! Come and let us bathe and worship our Pāvai.”
If we sing the praise of Him, Who grew big and measured the world[7] And worship our Goddess Pavai, Then would there be at least three rains a month, And the red paddy plants would grow big, And in their fields would the fish swim and play, And the spotted bees after sipping honey, To their hearts content, Would sleep in the flower themselves After having their fill, And the cows with big udder Would fill milk pots to the brim, And healthy cows and never diminishing wealth, Would fill the country, And all this I assure by worship of our Goddess Pavai.
Should we sing the name of the magnanimous
Outgrown and meted the world and assent
To bathe for deity, rain it shall, pour country over
Thrice monthly with no despair;
Shall facilitate tall growth of paddy crop
Carp to jump amidst like aquatic feet,
Spotted bee to perch on lily fair and
Donor cows to stand still, with udders thick
Allow milking to fill vessels copious
To ordain never vanishing wealth bounteous;
Listen and consider our damsel.
To be continued…………………….
Tags- Andal, Tiruppavai, in Pictures, three English Translations, Kausalya Hart, PR Ramachander, Dr Chenni Padmanabhan, Project Madurai , Uppiliappan Temple, Part one
Pictures are taken from various sources for spreading knowledge.
this is a non- commercial blog. Thanks for your great pictures.
tamilandvedas.com, swamiindology.blogspot.com
xxxx
Purananuru Wonders -17, Ancient Tamil Encyclopaedia -Part 57; One Thousand Interesting Facts -Part 57
SAKUNA/OMENS AND SANSKRIT WORDS IN PURANANURU VERSE 41
(Vaidehi Herbert’s English Translation of Purananuru is used by me; thanks)
***
Item 416 Sanskrit words in Puram 41
Poet Kovur Kizar used lot of materials from Sanskrit books. In Puram 41 we see a number of Sanskrit words.
Kaala- Time; used in all Sangam works and Tirukkural
Kaalan- Yama, God of Death
Brahmins salute the Vedic Gods, Planets and Directions thrice a day in the Sandhyavandana. When they salute Yama, God of Death Facing South, they recite all the names of God of Death; and one of them is Kaala.
Disai=Dik= Direction
English word Direction and Tamil word Disaiare from Sanskrit Dik, Disaa.
Emam – Kshemam
Urkam- Ulka in Vedas
The most common Sanskrit word for meteor is ulkā (उल्का), which typically denotes a meteor, firebrand, or fiery appearance. It refers to shooting stars, often appearing in literature from the Rigveda onwards.
***
Item 417 Sakuna/Omens
Tamil commentators on Puram 41, list the omens without telling the readers that they are Bad Omens. Because Tamils already knew about bad omens and they follow this science in their life, commentators leave it without explaining.
Brhat Samhita of Varahamihira has one full chapter on Omens (Chapter 86)
Valmiki Ramayana and Mahabharata have lot of references to Omens.
Many of the things mentioned here are already in the epics.
shooting stars falling in all the eight directions, long branches of huge trees parched without any leaves, sun with its scorching rays burning, bird calls heard as terrifying sounds, teeth falling on the ground, pouring oil on hair, men riding on boars, people removing their clothes and silver hued mighty weapons falling from an overturned cot.
***
Puranānūru 41, Kōvūr Kizhār sang to Chozhan Kulamutrathu Thunjiya Killivalavan
1
O king who triumphs in battles! Even Kootruvan, the god of death, will wait for the due time. You do not wait, but kill, when you want, destroying fine men owing armies with many spears!
2
You invade the lands of enemies causing distress. In dreams and in reality, men see sights that are rare: shooting stars falling in all the eight directions, long branches of huge trees parched without any leaves, sun with its scorching rays burning, bird calls heard as terrifying sounds, teeth falling on the ground, pouring oil on hair, men riding on boars, people removing their clothes and silver hued mighty weapons falling from an overturned cot.
3
O King who is mighty in battles! You advance like fire combined with wind. When they see you, your enemies who enraged you, who do not have KSHEMAM/EMAM/protection, kiss the flower-like eyes of their children, and hide their sorrow from their wives!
Madurai Nayak Kings received it from Goddess Meenakshi and the ceremony is repeated every year even today in a symbolic ceremony.
Kerala King submit it in the temple of Padmanabha Swamy in Thiruvanathapuram, when they go out of the country with a request to the God to take care of it till he comes back.
There are many instances like this in Hindu History.
Recently Indian Parliament had such a ceremony.
***
Item 420 Good Simile
The king protects his people like a tiger protects its cubs.
Item 421
Tamils’ Hospitality and Tamil Food
In the following lines Tamil food and drink that is served to guests are explained
Your citizens are hospitable to their relatives from arid lands, and give them vālai fish that rice reapers remove from the lower sluices, tortoises overturned by the plow blades of those who plow, sweet juice that harvesters take from sugarcanes, and waterlilies plucked by women on the huge shores. Like the rivers
***
Item 422 Vedic Simile
Like the rivers that descend from the mountains, run on the land, and flow toward the ocean, all the poets come to you
The poet has translated a famous Sansskrit saying which Brahmins recite thrice a day in their Sandhayavandana. Moreover this simile is used in umpteen places in Sanskrit books. Hindus are very familiar with geography.
The phrase “Akashat patitam toyam, yatha gacchati sagaram, sarva deva namaskaram, Keshavam prati gacchati” means that just as rain water from the sky flows towards the sea, worship offered to any deity reaches Shri Krishna, the Supreme Personality of Godhead.
Akl the T sounds are change into S sound in Tamil and English.
TION in English is pronounced as SION in English.
In Tamil Visham= Vitam; Basha= Paadai etc.
So Tamil is not a Dravidian language
Tamil and Sanskrit have come from the same root.
So Tamil and Sanskrit are Hindu /Indian languages; neither Aryan nor Dravidian.
***
Puranānūru 42, Poet Idaikkādanār sang to Chozhan Kulamutrathu Thunjiya Killivalavan,
1
You are endless in charity and a leader of murderous battles! Lord, your elephants appear like mountains! Your army roars like the ocean! Your spears gleam like lightning! You have the ability to make the kings of the world tremble! What you do is never wrong and this is not new to you!
2 With your righteousness and faultless scepter, you afford protection
3 as a tiger protects its cub, and your citizens listen only to the sounds of cool water even in dreams, and not those of warriors in your battlefields crying, “May you live long, Valavan! Remove our sorrows!”
4
You are the ruler of a fine and greatly prosperous country with rich towns with fields. Your citizens are hospitable to their relatives from arid lands, and give them vālai fish that rice reapers remove from the lower sluices, tortoises overturned by the plow blades of those who plow, sweet juice that harvesters take from sugarcanes, and waterlilies plucked by women on the huge shores.
5
Like the rivers that descend from the mountains, run on the land, and flow toward the ocean, all the poets come to you. When you glance at the countries of the two other kings, you are like Kootruvan with great might who is enraged, as he whirls his axe, for which there just suffering and no cure!
***
புறநானூறு42, பாடியவர்: இடைக்காடனார், பாடப்பட்டோன்: சோழன் குளமுற்றத்துத்துஞ்சிய கிள்ளிவளவன், திணை: வாகை, துறை: அரச வாகை
ஆனா ஈகை அடு போர் அண்ணல்! நின் யானையும் மலையின் தோன்றும் பெரும! நின் தானையும் கடலென முழங்கும், கூர் நுனை வேலும் மின்னின் விளங்கும், உலகத்து அரைசு தலை பனிக்கும் ஆற்றலை ஆதலின், 5 புரை தீர்ந்தன்று, அது புதுவதோ அன்றே, தண் புனல் பூசல் அல்லது நொந்து, களைக வாழி வளவ என்று நின் முனைதரு பூசல் கனவினும் அறியாது, புலி புறங்காக்கும் குருளை போல 10 மெலிவு இல் செங்கோல் நீ புறங்காப்பப், பெருவிறல் யாணர்த்து ஆகி அரிநர் கீழ் மடைக் கொண்ட வாளையும், உழவர் படை மிளிர்ந்திட்ட யாமையும், அறைநர் கரும்பிற் கொண்ட தேனும், பெருந்துறை 15 நீர்தரு மகளிர் குற்ற குவளையும், வன்புலக் கேளிர்க்கு வருவிருந்து அயரும் மென்புல வைப்பின் நன்னாட்டுப் பொருந! மலையின் இழிந்து மாக் கடல் நோக்கி நிலவரை இழிதரும் பல் யாறு போலப் 20 புலவரெல்லாம் நின் நோக்கினரே, நீயே மருந்து இல் கணிச்சி வருந்த வட்டித்துக் கூற்று வெகுண்டன்ன முன்பொடு, மாற்று இரு வேந்தர் மண் நோக்கினையே.
***
Item 424 Narasimha in Puranauru
Puram verse 43 is composed by Poet Narasimha!
Thāmarpal Kannanār is Tamil Translation of Narasimha.
The reason for my interpretation is the subject he is dealing with- Vaalakilya Rishis
Om Vajranakhaya Vidmahe Tiksnadamstraya Dhimahi Tanno Narasimhah
Meaning:
Om: The sound of the universe.
Vajranakhaya Vidmahe: “Let me contemplate on the Man-lion form of the Lord who has nails as strong as the Vajra (thunderbolt)”.
Tiksnadamstraya Dhimahi: “Let me meditate on the one who has sharp teeth (which pierce the veil of ignorance)”.
Tanno Narasimhah Pracodayat: “May that Lion god (Narasimha) be pleased to illuminate my intellect/mind and guide me”.
****
Item 425
Sibi Chakravarthy (Dove and Hawk) is story is repeated by this poet as well. Chozas came from Northwest of India. They are not Tamils.
Those who argue they ruled that part of India from Tamil Nadu have no historical or literary proof. Tamils didn’t even know Indus river.
***
Item 426 No one hurts Brahmins
Poet and the king were playing Chess. The king threw a coin on the poet. The poet became angry and said I doubt your birth (meaning you are a low born fellow). The king could have chopped poets head immediately. But he did not do it and felt ashamed about his behaviour. Immediately the poet praised him for not cutting off his head.
Here we know homw much respect Brahmins had in those days. It also shows the patience of the king
***
Item 427
The Poets praise
May your life be splendid for more days than the number of sands heaped in the dunes by River Kāviri with sweet abundant waters!
Is in Tamil and Sanskrit books. Poets wish someone’s life should be like the number of stars in the sky or the number of sand particles on the shore or the number of rain drops
Item 428 MOST IMPORTANT REFERENCE TO VALKHILYA RISHIS
to the amazement of sages with glowing hair who live with air as food and roam around absorbing the heat of the scorching rays of the sun, to end the sorrow of those who live on the land!
I have already written the following on Sec.31 ,2011 on the Munis:
Valakhilyas: 60,000 thumb-sized ascetics who protect Humanity
Jonathan Swift has taken the idea of Lilliputians for his novel Gulliver’s Travels from Valakhilyas!!
Valakhilyas are thumb sized ascetics accompanying the sun in its everyday travel in the sky. They are protecting the humanity by taking all the extra heat and act like the ozone layer. They are 60,000 in number they are shining like brilliant lights because of their severe penance. They used to hang upside down in the trees while doing penance—these are some of the interesting facts that are found in the Vedas, the epics and the mythologies. Tamil literature adds more details about these strange kinds of ascetics.
Valakhilya hymns, eleven in number, are the appendix of the eighth Mandala of the Rig Veda. But famous commentators like Sayana rejected them as interpolations. The Ramayana and the Mahabharata have a lot of references to the Valakhilya Rishis. They may be considered the forerunners of English folklore: ‘Tom Thumb’ and the Lilliputians of the famous satirical novel Gulliver’s Travels by Jonathan Swift. English newspapers and magazines were publishing a lot of stories about India in the 1700s.
Ancient Sangam Tamil literature refers to Valakhilyas in Puranaanuru (verse 43), Tirumurugatrup patai (lines 16-109), post Sangam book Silappadikaram (Vettuvavari 15) and in the poems of middle age poet Arunagirinathar.
Valakhilyas were born to Kratu and Kriya. Once Kasyapa did a Yagna (fire sacrifice) to beget children. He invited all the Devas and Rishis to help him in the task. Everybody readily agreed. Mighty Indra, the King of Heaven, brought wood for the ceremony. Valakhilyas were emaciated due to severe penance. They were hardly able to lift anything but leaves. Even when they were moving leaves like ants, they fell into rainwater puddles, because they were so tiny. It amused Indra and he laughed loudly. Valakhilyas were very much offended. They made a vow to do a separate yagna to create another Indra. When Indra listened to their vows, he was afraid and ran to Kasyapa to explain what had happened.
Kasyapa lent a patient ear, but warned that he could not stop the powerful Valakhilyas. But he gave an assurance to Indra that he would find a compromise. When he met Valakhilyas he requested them to drop the yagna to create a new Indra. He also assured them that whoever they create will be the Indra of the birds and Valakhilyas agreed to this new plan.
After the yagna Valakhilya’s prasad (food offering) was given to Vinata, one of the two wives of Kasyapa. She gave birth to two children Aruna and the most powerful golden-hued eagle, Garuda. Long after this Garuda flew to Indraloka to get Amrita and defeated Indra. The Second wife of Kasyapa Kadru gave birth to the Nagas or the Snake race. Garuda on his way back sat on the tree where Valakhilyas were doing penance. The tree broke into many branches, but Garuda lifted all the ascetics with the branch and put them in a safe place.
The Rig Veda says that they sprang from the hairs of Prajapati Brahma. They are the guards of the Chariot of the Sun. They are also called the Kharwas. The Vishnu Purana describes them as pious, chaste and resplendent as the rays of the sun.
Tamil literature is very clear in saying that the main task of the short and smart ascetics is to prevent human beings from being scorched. So they absorb the excess heat from the sun by travelling in front of him. Tamil books also add they were in turn given energy by Lord Skanda and Goddess Durga. Even the hunters in the forest pray to Durga for this. Another Tamil poet compares the sacrifice of the Valakhilyas to the sacrifice of the Emperor Sibi who gave his flesh to an eagle to save a pigeon. The famous story of Sibi was referred to in four Sangam Tamil books. Sibi was praised as the forefather of the famous and powerful Tamil Chola dynasty. The food of Valakhilyas is only wind.
Another story in the Hindu mythology is that the sun has to fight a set of demons called Mandokarunar on a day-to-day basis for survival. Valakhilyas stand beside the Sun in battle. We don’t know whether there is scientific basis for this story. Mandokarunar maybe a reference to the dangers of solar flares or magnetic storms. In any case, it is crystal clear that the Valakhilyas act as the ozone layer to protect us from harmful ultraviolet rays. Too much ultraviolet rays will cause us skin cancer and other health problems.
We must be grateful to the authors of the Vedas, Puranas, Epics and Tamil commentators Nachinarkiniyar and Adiarrku Nallar for creating awareness about the dangers of ultra violet radiation. In western countries people are warned to use special creams whenever they sunbathe.
***
Puranānūru 43, Poet Thāmarpal Kannanār sang for Māvalathān, the younger brother of Chozhan Nalankilli,
1
O heir of a powerful man with endless generosity who saved a dove with small strides that came to him for protection, afraid that it might be killed by a kite with curved wings and sharp claws, and entered a scale,
2
to the amazement of sages with glowing hair who live with air as food and roam around absorbing the heat of the scorching rays of the sun, to end the sorrow of those who live on the land!
3
O younger brother of Killivalavan with chariots and great wealth! O Lord of warriors with long arrows and curved bows! O leader with strong hands and swift horses! I said this making you hate me,
4 “I have doubts about your ancestry. Your ancestors who wore mountain ebony garlands did not hurt Brahmins. How can you?” I had wronged you and was mistaken, but you did not take offense. You were very embarrassed as if the fault was entirely yours.
5
O Lord who tolerates mistakes of those who have hurt you! O Lord who has admirable strength worthy of your clan! I survived because of you!
6 May your life be splendid for more days than the number of sands heaped in the dunes by River Kāviri with sweet abundant waters!
***
புறநானூறு43, பாடியவர்: தாமற்பல் கண்ணனார், பாடப்பட்டோன்: சோழன் நலங்கிள்ளி தம்பி மாவளத்தான், திணை: வாகை, துறை: அரச வாகை
1
நில மிசை வாழ்நர் அலமரல் தீரத், தெறு கதிர்க் கனலி வெம்மை தாங்கிக், கால் உணவாகச் சுடரொடு கொட்கும், அவிர் சடை முனிவரும் மருளக்,
பார்ப்பார் நோவன செய்யலர் – they did not hurt Brahmins, றக்க நின் ஆயுள் மிக்கு வரும் இன்னீர்க் காவிரி எக்கர் இட்ட மணலினும் பலவே – may your life flourish for more days than the sands brought and heaped by Kāviri with sweet waters .
-Subham—
Tags- Purananuru Wonders -17, Ancient Tamil Encyclopaedia -Part 57, One Thousand Interesting Facts -Part 57, Sakuna, Omens, Valakhilya muni, Hurting Brahmins, Item 428
Pictures are taken from various sources for spreading knowledge.
this is a non- commercial blog. Thanks for your great pictures.
tamilandvedas.com, swamiindology.blogspot.com
xxxx
By God’s grace I went to three countries with my wife between January and March 2025 and spent much of the time in visiting new and unseen temples.. I have written detailed articles in Tamil about most of these places; and more articles are in the line.
During this trip, I visited Temples, archaeological monuments, gardens, Tourist spots, Shopping centres, libraries, museums and palaces.
Here is a brief tour plan I followed:
January 2, 2026- departure from London LHR.
January 2, 2026- stayed in Bengaluru.
January 3- stayed in Fortune JP Palace hotel in Mysuru.
Visited Melakote Vishnu temple, Sri Rangapatna Vishnu temple, Chamundeeswary Devi temple etc.
January 4- Mysore Palace, Somnathpur Kesava Temple/Archaeological Monument, Back to Bengaluru in the night.
January 5- Left Bengaluru for Bangkok in Thailand.
January 6, 2026- arrived in Bangkok and stayed in Villa de Kaoshanon Hotel; visited the Royal Palace.
January 7- Had darshan in Mariamman Temple in Bangkok. Did some shopping; also visited one of the oldest Buddhist temples very near out hotel.
January 8- Left for Sydney in Australia.
January 8- reached Sydney just before midnight.
Stay in Australia until 2 March 2026.
January 29- had darshan at Sri Karpaka Vinayakar Temple .
January 31- Sri Durga Kovil and Sri Shirdi Baba Mandir
March 2, 2026 – left for Chennai
March 3 – Chennai shopping
March 4- reached Sri vathsam Divine Inn hotel near Kumbakonam stayed there until 13-3-2026
March 5, 2026- Vaitheeswaran Siva temple,
Mayuranathar temple in Mayiladuthurai
Sivapuram Vedapatasala in Mayiladuthurai
Sarngapani temple, Kumbakonam
Chakrapani temple, Kumbakonam
Nageswarar temple, Kumbakonam
Kumbeswarar temple, Kumbakonam
March 6- Tiruchengattankudi Shiva/ Ganapathy temple
Tiruupugalur Appar/ Shiva temple
Srivanchiyam Shiva temple
March 9, 2026-Thiruvidaimarudur Shiva temple
Tirubhuvanam Shiva temple
Tiruvavaduthurai Shiva temple
Kanchanur Shiva temple/ sukran temple
March 10, 2026- Dharasuram Shiva temple/ Archaeological monument
Adivarahar Vishnu temple – Kumbakonam
March 12, 2026- Uppilappan Vishnu Temple
Ayyavadi Pratyankara/ Shiva temple
Tirunaraiyur Shiva temple / Sani graha shrine
Swarna akarshana Bhairava temple, Sembianvararampal near Ayyavadi
March 13, 2026- Veeranarayana Vishnu Temple, Kattumannar Koil,
Aravinda/Aurobindo Ashram at Puducherry
Manakkula Vinayakar Temple at Puducherry
Puducherry Museum
Back to Chennai in the night.
March 14- Chennai Shopping
March 15- Left Chennai by BA and reached LHR same day afternoon.
I took 500 to 600 pictures during my tour.
–subham-
Tags- My tour, Three countries, India, Australia, Thailand, Hindu temples, museums, palaces, London Swaminathan, January- March 2026., Buddhist temple
Pictures are taken from various sources for spreading knowledge.
this is a non- commercial blog. Thanks for your great pictures.
tamilandvedas.com, swamiindology.blogspot.com
xxxx
Item 409
Sibi story from Hindu Puranas and epic is repeated here which shows Choza kings came from North West India. Even Buddhists stole this story and incorporated in the Jataka Tales which were older than Sangam Tamil literature. But Buddhists showed Sibi as Buddha and not as Chozas.
The Sibi Chakravarthi story appears to have adopted by the Chozha kings as theirs. It is referred to in Puranānūru 37, 39, 43 and 46.
Chembian in Tamil is derived from Sanskrit Saibhya which is again derived from Sibi.
***
Item 410
Hanging Forts in the sky.
All Tamil interpreters skip this line without explaining.
In fact it is the story of Tripurantaka/Lord Siva.
The destruction of the three cities in the sky, known as Tripura or Tripurantaka, is a major mythological theme frequently referenced in Chola-era inscriptions and art to glorify Lord Shiva and, by extension, the Chola kings who claimed to rule under his grace.
1. The Myth of Tripura in Chola Context
The Myth: Three demon sons of Taraka obtained a boon from Brahma to live in three powerful, movable aerial cities (gold, silver, and iron) created by Mayasura. They could only be destroyed when these cities aligned once every thousand years and were struck by a single arrow. Shiva (“Tripurantaka”) shot this arrow.
Chola Symbolism: The Chola kings identified with the strength and role of Shiva, projecting themselves as protectors of the cosmic order. The Tripurantaka form of Shiva (Destroyer of the Three Cities) was particularly popular in early Chola art and inscriptions.
Significance: It signifies the destruction of evil (“sins”) and the restoration of balance.
2. Epigraphical and Artistic Evidence
Kailasanathar Temple, Kanchipuram: 1500-year-old carvings show a colossal “Tripurantaka Murthi” figure. While early, this set the stage for Chola temple art.
Kamarathivalli Temple (Kamarasavalli): Inscriptions here highlight that the temple was heavily supported by monarchs like Rajaraja Chola I, Sundara Chola, and Vikrama Chola, who worshipped Shiva in his various forms.
Chola Bronzes: The Norton Simon Museum houses one of the earliest Chola bronzes depicting Shiva as Tripurantaka, highlighting the importance of this story during the early, middle, and late Chola periods.
3. Connection to Chola Rule
Rajaraja I and Gangaikonda Cholapuram: While building his capital, Rajaraja I was heavily influenced by Shaivite traditions. His successors, like Rajendra Chola I, adopted similar ideologies, and inscriptions often describe the king’s victory in terms of divine favor, drawing parallels to the destruction of the three forts (Tripura).
Kumbakonam Area: The “Thiruvanaikkaval” area (near Trichy), linked to the Kochengot Chola (a very early king), features Shiva-centered mythology, including stories of transformation and overcoming threats.
In summary, the story of the “three cities in the sky” (Tripura) represents the triumph of divine justice and is a key ideological theme found in the inscriptions of the Chola dynasty, linking their victories directly to the prowess of Lord Shiva, particularly in his Tripurantaka form.
***
Item 411
Uranthai, now Uraiyur near iruchi was famous for the Justice Court that existed during Krikal Choza Time. Then it was destroyed in a sand storm.
My article written in year 2011 is reproduced here:
Strange as it may look, British judges, magistrates and barristers follow a custom that was started by a Tamil king two thousand years ago. British judges and several others who preside over the courts of justice wear a white wig.
If we go to encyclopaedias they don’t explain why they wear it or when it was exactly started. Ancient Egyptians wore wigs for protecting their heads from the scorching sun. Then Romans and others wore different types of wigs as symbols of aristocracy.
The British judiciary started wearing wigs from 17th century. Many of the commonwealth countries also followed it. Whenever the reason for the custom is asked many people say that it is the tradition or uniform for professional discipline or it shows experience. Actually it was started by the most famous Tamil king, Karikal Chola two thousand years ago. Crystal clear proof comes from the ancient Tamil Cankam (Sangam) literature.
Karikalan was the greatest of the Tamil kings for three reasons. He ruled vast areas of Tamil-speaking land, subjugating other Tamil kingdoms. He was the first Tamil king who went up to the Himalayas and carved his dynastic emblem there. Till today, there remains a Chola pass in the Himalayas. The second reason was he was a just king and his court of justice in Uraiyur became very famous. Tamil literature praises his justice and gives the story of wigs. And the third reason is the Grand Anaicut he built across the river Cauvery is one of the oldest dam s in the world.
Though we did not have any historical records scholars have dated him around 1st century BC. He was a boy king – like the Egyptian Tutankhamen. He came to power while he was a teenager.
The Story of Wigs:
One day two elderly people came to his court seeking justice. They had a dispute among themselves. They decided that whatever the Uraiyur court says must be the final settlement. When they came in to court, they were shocked to see a boy sitting as the judge. They were greatly disappointed – which Karikalan felt immediately by looking at their faces. Indeed, the face is the index of the mind.
Karikalan politely asked the elders to take seats and told them to wait for the ‘judge’ and he went in. The entire assembly was puzzled. Then came an elderly person and sat on the chair. After carefully listening to the arguments of both the sides he gave his judgement. Both of them were immensely happy to hear a fair settlement. Now the assembly wanted to know who the elderly judge was. King Karikalan removed his white hair wig (Narai Mudi in Tamil) and revealed himself. All applauded the Wisdom of the ‘Solomon of India’.
The proof for the anecdote is in three Tamil books:
1. Porunar Atruppadai –lines 187-188. Porunar Atruppadai is one of the ten long poems of Tamil Cankam literature dated between 1st to 3rd century AD
2. Manimekalai- This is one of the five Tamil epics dated 3rd century AD
3. Pazamozi – poem 25 translation:
Nobody can deny the fact that Karikalan was the first one to use white wig in judiciary matters.
***
Item 412 Himalayas
Himalayas was not only sacred to Hindus but also a symbol of victory. Chera Choza Pandya kings went up to the northern most and the highest mountain in the world to engrave their symbols. This Ws achieved with the help of Satakarnis, the mighty Satavahana kings. They were friends of the Tamil kings. Tamils of Sangam Age mentioned Himalayas, Ganga and Yamunai but never Indus River/Sindhu. It shows that they have no connection with the Harappan Civilization.
***
Item 413 Vanji
Play on words. Vanji has three meanings: A plant, modern Karur town in Tamil Nadu and a girl who is slim like Vanji creeper.
Here in Puram 39, poetess used it for Vanji city, that is Karur. But she used it by saying Vanji that which will not whither. This is the style of Kalidas, the greatest of the Indian poets. He used to play on words like this.
For instance if he wants to mention the bird Chakravaka, he would saythe bird with the name of a wheel/Chakra.
வாடாவஞ்சி வாட்டும் – you hurt strong Vanji city which is not the vanji flower that fades (வாடா வஞ்சி – வஞ்சிநகருக்கு வெளிப்படை, வஞ்சி – இன்றைய கரூர்),
***
Puranānūru 39, Poet Mārōkkathu Nappasalaiyār sang to Chozhan Kulamutrathu Thunjiya Killivalavan
1 O heir of Chempiyan who removed the pain of a dove by climbing on a scale with a pointer made of white tusk of an elephant with dark legs! Generosity is not the reason for your fame!
2
If we think about your ancestors who ruined forts that are hanging high that are strong and difficult to approach, killing in battles is not the reason for your fame!
3
Righteousness has been established in the court of Uranthai of the Chozhas with martial courage, and reigning with justice cannot increase your fame!
O Valavan who wins battles with great might, whose arms are like the crossbars of forts, whose garland is blinding, who owns proud horses!
4
How can I describe you, since you have made strong Vanji wither, and destroyed the Chera king owning tall, well-built chariots,
5
who had placed his protective bow symbol on the Himalayas with many towering summits with gold? How can I sing of your great acts?
Ancient Hindu kings melted the golden crown of the enemy kings and made them their anklets (leg ornaments) or foot stools . Here the anklets are mentioned by the poet. Here we come to know more about the jewellery of ancient Tamil Nadu.
“You have made glittering warrior anklets with the fine gold crowns of your enemies that you wear on your legs”
Item 415
A very good description about the paddy Production is revealed in the following lines:
“country where a small space fit for a female elephant produces food for seven male elephants!”
In fact there is a well known saying
சோழநாடு (சோறுடைத்து): Choza country is famous for rice;
பாண்டியநாடு (முத்துடைத்து): Pandya country is famous for pearls;
சேரநாடு (வேழமுடைத்து): Chera country is famous for elephants;
தொண்டைநாடு (சான்றோருடைத்து):Thondai country is famous for Scholars
***
Puranānūru 40, Poet Āvūr Moolankizhār sang to Chozhan Kulamutrathu Thunjiya Killivalavan,
You do not respect the fortresses of your enemies who protect them with martial courage. You wage wars with them and ruin them. You have made glittering warrior anklets with the fine gold crowns of your enemies that you wear on your legs.
O Mighty King! We have seen you today and we wish we can see you always. May those who sing ill of you bow their necks and those who sing your praises flourish! O greatness! May you, with sweet words be easy to approach, O lord of the country where a small space fit for a female elephant produces food for seven male elephants!
நீயே பிறர் ஓம்புறு மறமன் எயில் ஓம்பாது கடந்து அட்டு, அவர் முடிபுனைந்தபசும்பொன்னின் அடிபொலியக்கழல்தைஇய வல்லாளனை, வய வேந்தே! 5 யாமே நின் இகழ் பாடுவோர் எருத்து அடங்கப், புகழ் பாடுவோர் பொலிவு தோன்ற, இன்று கண்டாங்குக் காண்குவம், என்றும் இன் சொல் எண் பதத்தை ஆகுமதி பெரும! ஒருபிடிபடியுஞ்சீறிடம் 10 எழுகளிறுபுரக்கும்நாடுகிழவோயே!
அவர் முடி புனைந்த பசும் பொன்னின் – with their crowns made of gold, அடி பொலிய – feet to be beautiful, feet to glow, கழல் தைஇய – made war anklets out of them
O Greatness, ஒரு பிடி படியும் சீறிடம் எழு களிறு புரக்கும் நாடு கிழவோயே – O lord of the country where a small space necessary for a female elephant protects (grows food for) seven male elephants .
To be continued………………..
Tags-Puranaanuru Wonders -16, Ancient Tamil Encyclopaedia -Part 56, One Thousand Interesting Facts -Part 56 , Sibi, Karikalan, Wigs, Uraiyur, Tamil jewellery, item 415, hanging forts, hanging cities
Pictures are taken from various sources for spreading knowledge.
this is a non- commercial blog. Thanks for your great pictures.
tamilandvedas.com, swamiindology.blogspot.com
xxxx
In November 2022 Calendar I posted 30 quotes under Kanchi Shankaracharya’s Golden Sayings (Post.11,395); now I add more quotes from the 68th Jagadguru of the Kanchi Kamakoti Peetham, Sri Chandrasekharendra Saraswathi Mahaswamigal 1894-1994 (popularly known as Maha Periyava or the Kanchi Paramacharya).
***
Festivals- April 1 Panguni Uththiram; 3 Good Friday;5 Easter ;14 Tamil New Year ; 20 Akshaya Trtyai; 21 Sankara Jayanti; 22 Ramanuja Jayanti; 28 Madurai Meenakshi Kalyanam; 30 Narasimha Jayanti.
***
Amavasyai-17; Purnima-2; Ekaadasi Fasting Days 13,27
***
Muhurta/ Auspiscious Days
April 20, 23, 30;
(also 6, 12, 13, 16)
***
April 1 Wednesday
The Vedas are eternal and the source of all creations. The Vedas are also notable for the lofty truths that find expression in the mantras.
***
April 2 Thursday
The remarkable about the Vedas is that they are of values much for their sound as for their verbal content. While the sound has its own creative power, the words are notable for the exalted character of the meaning they convey.
***
April 3 Friday
There are mantras that are especially valuable for their sound but are otherwise meaning less. Similarly, there are works pregnant with meaning but with no special Mantrik power.
***
April 4 Saturday
The Vedas indeed constitute the apex of our law books.
***
April 5 Sunday
What is a Yajna ? it is the performance of a religious duty involving Agni, the sacrificial power with the chanting of Mantra.
***
April 6 Monday
The concept of Yajnas not present in other systems of worship. There is a big difference between our religion, the Vedic Mata, and other faiths.
***
April 7 Monday
An important difference between the Vedic religion and other faiths is this: while followers of other religions worship one God, we worship many deities and make offerings to them.
***
April 8 Wednesday
The Vedas proclaim that the one Brahman, call it Truth or Reality, is manifested as so many different devatas or deities. Since each devata is extolled as Paramatman we know for certain that monotheism is a Vedic tenet.
***
April 9 Thursday
The Vedic sacrifices have a threefold purpose. The first is to earn the blessings of the deities so that we as well other creatures may be happy in this world.
***
April 10 Friday
The second is, to ensure after our death we will live happily in the world of the celestials.
***
April 11 Saturday
The third purpose is the most important and it is achieved by performing the sacrifices (Yajnas), as taught by the Bhagavad Gita, without any expectation of rewards. Here we desire neither happiness in this world nor residence in the paradise.
***
April 12 Sunday
Many matters pertaining to the Vedas may not seem to be in conformity with science and for that reason they are not to be treated as wrong.
***
April 13 Monday
Money is not essential to the performance of the rites enjoined by the sastras nor is pomp and circumstance essential to worship. Even tried Tulsi and BilVa leaves are enough to perform puja.
***
April 14 Monday
Sages transcended the frontiers of human knowledge and became one with the universal reality. It is through them that the world received the Vedic mantras.
***
Kanchi Shankaracharaya visited Madurai Dinamani office at the request of my father V Sanatanm, News Editor, Dinamani, Madurai.
April 15 Wednesday
The noble characters who figure in the puranas serve as an ideal for all of us to follow. When we read their stories, we are inspired by their examples.
***
April 16 Thursday
Manu Parasara, Yajnavalkya, Gautama, Harita, Yama Vishnu Sankha, Likhita Brhaspati, Daksha, Angiras Pracetas, Samvarta Acanas Atri Apastamba and Saataatapa are the eighteen sages who mastered Vedas with their superhuman power and derived the smritis/ law books from them.
***
April 17 Friday
Apart from these 18 Smritis, there are 18 subsidiary smritis called upa smritis. It is customary to include Bhagavad Gita among the smritis.
***
April 18 Saturday
If we call ourselves Hindus we must bear certain external marks , outward symbols. Now we have come to such a pass that nobody wears any of the external marks of our religion.
***
April 19 Sunday
People ask me why should not the sasrtas be changed to suit our times. The Vedic word cannot and must not be changed at any time and on any account. The same applies to the rules and laws laid down in the smritis/law books of Hindus.
***
April 20 Monday
The greatest of the mahakavis, Kalidasa makes a reference to the smritis in his Raghuvamsa. Sudakshina , of matchless purity and character, following her husband Dilipa is likened to the smritis closely following the Vedas.
***
April 21 Monday
To discriminate between Sruti and Smriti is not correct. Sankara is said to be the abode of the three Sruti Smriti Purananam alayam- abode of Sruti, Smritis, Puranams; if the three were at variance with one another, how can they exist together in harmony in the same person?
***
April 22 Wednesday
In the Puranas the Vedic truths are illustrated in the form of stories.
***
April 23 Thursday
We speak of three worlds: Deva loka/ world of celestials, Manushyaloka (world of ours) and Naraka (hell)
***
April 24 Friday
A man’s actions, his works, together with his character, determine his passage to other worlds. Only in this Karmabhumi can we perfect our character by performing virtuous acts and thus qualify to go to another world.
***
Kanchi Shankaracharaya visited Madurai Dinamani office at the request of my father V Sanatanm, News Editor, Dinamani, Madurai.
April 25 Saturday
Pura means in the past. That which gives an account of what happened in the past is a purana, even though it may contain predictions about future also.
***
April 26 Sunday
Ramayana and Mahabharata are two Ithihsams. Iti-haa- asam – means it happened thus. The haa in the middle means without doubt, truly. So an Itihaasa means a true story, the word can also mean thus speak they
***
April 27 Monday
Our nation, it is often alleged, does not have a sense of history. In my opinion the Puranas are history. History must be taught along with lessons in dharma; then alone will it serve the purpose of bringing people to the right path.
***
April 28 Monday
According to the sastras, Vyasa composed the Puranas 5000 years ago, at the beginning of the age of kali, but they must have existed before him also. In the Chandogya Upanishad, Narada speaks about the subjects learned by him and they include the Puranas. From this we infer that they must have existed during the time of the Vedas and the Upanishads.
***
April 29 Wednesday
I regard Vyasa as the first journalist, the ideal for all newspapermen of today. He composed the puranas and made a gift of that great treasure to humanity.
***
April 30 Thursday
Vyasa composed the Puranas in 400,000 granthas. A grantha is a stanza consisting of 32 syllables. Of these Skanda purana alone accounts for 100,000. It is perhaps the world’s biggest literary work. The remaining 17 puranas add up to 300,000 granthas. Apart from them Vyasa composed the Mahabharata , also nearly , 100,000 granthas.
–subham—
Tags- April 2026, Calendar, Sayings, Kanchi Swamikal, Sankaracharya, Maha periyava, 1894-1994, paramacharya, Vedas, Puranas, Itihasa
Pictures are taken from various sources for spreading knowledge.
this is a non- commercial blog. Thanks for your great pictures.
tamilandvedas.com, swamiindology.blogspot.com
xxxx
Words beginning with letter KA continues…………………………….
Tamil version will be posted tomorrow
***
Kanishka
Kanishka was a 2nd-century CE emperor of the Kushan dynasty who reigned around 127–150 CE. Known for his extensive military conquests, his empire stretched from Central Asia and Gandhara to Pataliputra, with capitals at Purushapura (Peshawar) and Mathura. He was a major patron of Buddhism, hosting the Fourth Buddhist Council and facilitating its spread along the Silk Road
***
Kanva Maharishi
Kanva is celebrated as the hermit who found the infant Shakuntala surrounded by Sakuntas (birds) in the wilderness, protected her, and raised her in his beautiful ashram (hermitage) on the banks of the river Malini. He is referred to as the foster father who enabled her union with King Dushyanta.
He is identified as the son of Rishi Medhatithi and is associated with the lineage of the Rishi Kashyapa, The name “Kanva” also signifies a Vedic school associated with the White Yajurveda (Kanva-Samhita), which includes 40 chapters and 2,086 verses.
***
Kartikeya
Kārttikeya (कार्त्तिकेय) is the name of Śiva’s son born for the purpose of slaying the asura Tāraka and to protect the realm of Indra .
Kārttikeya was born out of the fire having six faces. Accordingly, “When thus addressed by Śiva, the goddess (Umā) worshipped Gaṇeśa, and the fire became pregnant with that germ of Śiva. Then, bearing that embryo of Śiva, the fire shone even in the day as if the sun had entered into it. And then it discharged into the Ganges the germ difficult to bear, and the Gaṇas, by the order of Śiva, placed it in a sacrificial cavity on Mount Meru; it became a boy with six faces.”
The name Kārttikeya is derived from the fact he was nursed by the breasts of the six Kṛttikās.
***
Kartavirya
Kārtavīrya (कार्तवीर्य).—The son of Kṛtavīrya and king of the Haihayas, who ruled at Māhiṣmatī. Having worshipped Dattāttreya, he obtained from him several boons, such as a thousand arms, a golden chariot that went wheresoever he willed it to go, the power of restraining wrong by justice, conquest of earth, invincibility by enemies. According to the Vāyu Purāṇa he ruled justly and righteously for 85 years and offered sacrifices. He was a contemporary of Rāvaṇa whom he once captured and confined like a beast in a corner of his city; Kārtavīrya was slain by Paraśurāma for having carried off by violence the Kāmadhenu of his father Jamadagni. Kārtavīrya is also known by the name Sahasrārjuna.
***
Kapila
The great sage Kapila had chosen the netherworld to perform a terrible penance. At this time, the king Sagara had been performing the Ashwamedha (horse) sacrifice, but the sacrifical horse had wandered away. As the horse had strayed near the hermitage of sage Kapila, the 60,000 sons of Sagara came there in search of it.
The din caused by the arrival disturbed the sage, but he still did not open his eyes. When the sons of Sagara saw that the horse was there, they mistakenly assumed that Kapila was responsible for its theft. They started insulting the sage. At last, the sage could not bear it any longer. He opened his in wrath. Such was the potency of his gaze, that all the sons of Sagara were burned to ashes on the spot
Kapila is a revered ancient sage in Hindu tradition, best known as the founder of the Sāṅkhya school of philosophy, which analyses matter and spirit; he is the son of Kardama Muni and Devahūti. Kapila is associated with Satya-yuga .
Famous Sangam Tamil poet name is also Kapila; that Brahmin poet contributed the largest number of poems in Sangam literature.
***
Kasi
Kāśī has been known for centuries under five different names, viz., Vārāṇasī (modern Banaras), Kāśī, Avimukta, Ānandakānana and Śmaśāna or Mahāśmaśāna.
Kāsī is one of the sixteen Mahājanapadas of the Majjhimadesa (Middle Country) of ancient India, as recorded in the Pāli Buddhist texts
It is situated on the left side of the river Ganga. As it is situated between the river Varuna and Ashi, it is known as Varanasi
Before the time of the Buddha, Kāsī was a great political power.
One of the oldest sacred places of learning in India. The Purāṇic name of the modern city of Benares in the North Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. Ambā, Ambikā and Ambālikā were abducted by Bhīṣma from this city, according to Mahabharata.
The Kashi Vishwanath Temple, located in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, is one of India’s most sacred Hindu temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It houses one of the 12 Jyotirlingas, featuring a 2-foot-high black stone lingam. It is one of the Seven Sacred Cities of India.
***
Katopanishad
The Katha Upanishad is a collection of philosophical poems representing a conversation between the sage Naciketas and Yama (God of death). They discuss the nature of Atman, Brahman and Moksha (liberation). The book is made up of six sections (Valli). Adi Sankara wrote a commentary.
This commentary by Shankara focuses on ‘Advaita Vedanta’, or non-dualism.
***
Kaurava
Kaurava is a Sanskrit term referring to descendant of Kuru, a legendary king of India who is the ancestor of many of the characters of the epic Mahabharata. Usually, the term is used for the 100 sons of King Dhritarashtra and his wife Gandhari.
The descendants of King Kuru who fought against the Pāṇḍavas in the Battle of Kurukṣetra.
From Dhṛtarāṣṭra, Duryodhana and his brothers were born and from Pāṇḍu were born the Pāṇḍavas. All members born in the family of Kuru were known as Kauravas. But later, the sons of Dhṛtarāṣṭra came to be known by the name ‘Kauravas’
***
Kaushika
Kaushika is a Sanskrit term with multiple meanings, primarily referring to a descendant of Kusha, frequently used as a name for Sage Vishvamitra: Often synonymous with Vishvamitra, who was originally a king (Kaushika) of Kanyakubja before becoming a Brahmarishi Refers to the lineage or clan founded by the sons of Vishvamitra, noted for ascetic virtues and intermarriage with various Rishis.
The Story of Kaushika: A narrative involving a scholarly brahmin who is taught that duty and virtue, regardless of station, are superior to arrogant learning, often linked to the story of the virtuous butcher (Dharmavyadha).
Means “derived from the cocoon of a silkworm”; a gotra name; another meaning owl. Poets belonging to Kausika Gotra are in Sangam Tamil literature.
***
Kausalya
1) Kausalyā (कौसल्या).—A queen of King Daśaratha and mother of Śrī Rāma. Daśaratha had three wives Kausalyā, Kaikeyī and Sumitrā. Kausalyā gave birth to Śrī Rāma, Kaikeyī to Bharata and Sumitrā to Lakṣmaṇa and Śatrughna. (Vālmīki Rāmāyaṇa, Bāla Kāṇḍa, Sarga 16).
2) Kausalyā (कौसल्या).—Queen of the King of Kāśī. Ambā, Ambikā, and Ambālikā were daughters of this Kausalyā. Of these daughters Ambālikā also was called Kausalyā. After the death of Pāṇḍu she went to the forest with Ambikā. (Mahābhārata Ādi Parva, Chapter 129).
To be continued………….
Tags- Kanishka, Kapia, Kasi, Kaurava, Part 44, HINDU DICTIONARY IN ENGLISH AND TAMIL 44; இந்து மத கலைச்சொல் அகராதி-44
Pictures are taken from various sources for spreading knowledge.
this is a non- commercial blog. Thanks for your great pictures.
tamilandvedas.com, swamiindology.blogspot.com
xxxx
Chandra and other Grahas/Planets / Thingal in Tamil
The moon is regarded as one of the grahas surrounding the sun and going round and round the mountain Meru. He is born of the sea and of sage Atri. He is said to have only face and hands , but no body. He turns towards the sun and holds white lotuses in his hands or sometimes a club and the boon conferring hand- Abhaya hasta. He rides on a two wheeled chariot drawn by ten horses. His caste is Vaisya.
***
Mars/ Kuja/ Mangal / Sevvay in Tamil
Kuja is the son of the earth and of sage Bharadwaja; his country is Avanti. His caste is Kshatriya . He wears red garments and a crown and has four arms holding weapons Sakti and club, and the postures Abhaya and Varada hastas. He faces the sun and rides on a ram.
He is called Angaaraka, Bhauma ,Bhuumii putra and
Mahiisuta. He is also called Siva- gharmaja/born of the sweat of Siva,Gaganolmuka- the torch of the sky,
Lohita – the red, Navaarchi- the nine rayed,Chara- the spy, Rinaantaka- the ender of the debts or the patron of the debtors.
Mangala / Mars/Angaaraka
The planet Mars, is identified with Kaartikeya , the god of war. He was the son of Siva and the earth/bhu
***
Budha / Mercury / Budhan in Tamil
Budha , the son of moon is a Vaisya of the Magadha country born in the lineage of Atri. He has four arms, a yellow body and the lion vehicle. He shows in his hands the shield, club, Varada mudra and the sword. He also faces the sun.
Budha /Mercury
Wise, intelligent ; buddhisaali- brainy.
The planet mercury, is son of soma, the moon, by Rohini or by Taaraa , wife of Brihaspati. He married Ilaa, daughter of Manu Vivasvata, and ha da son, Puruuruva. Budha was an author of a hymn in the Rig Veda. From his parents he is called Saumya and Rauhineya. He is also called Praharshana, Rodhana, Tunga, and Syaamaanga, black bodied.
The intrigue of Soma with Taaraa was the cause of a great quarrel, in which the Gods/Devas and Asuras/demons fought against each other. Brahma compelled Soma to give up Taaraa and when she was returned to her husband she was pregnant. A son was born, who was handsome that Brihaspati and Soma both claimed him. Taaraa for long refused to tell his paternity, and so excited the wrath and nearly incurred the curse of her son. At length, upon the command of Brahma, she declared Soma to be the father, and she gave the boy name Budha.
***
Brihaspati /Guru /Jupiter/ Viyaazan in Tamil
Brihaspati is a Brahmana and the Guru of Devas. Born of Angiras he comes from the Sindhu country. He has either two or four arms holding the book and the rosary. He also faces the sun.
***
Kanjanur Sukra Shrine
Sukra /Venus /Velli in Tamil
He is also a Brahmana, born of Bhrigu and a native of Bhojakata. He is the teacher/ guru of Asuras/ demons. He is seated in a golden chariot drawn by eight horses or in a silver chariot yoked to ten horses. He has two hands one of which holds a Nidhi/treasure and in the other a book. According to other authorities, he has four arms in which are seen the staff, rosary, water pot and the Varada hasta.
Sukra
The planet Sukra/ Venus is the son of Bhrigu and the priest of daityas/demons. He is also called the son of Kavi. His wife’s name was Susumaa or Sataparwa. His daughter Devayaani married Yayaati of the lunar race/ Chandra vamsa and her husband’s infidelity induced Sukra to curse him.
Sukra is identified with Ushanas, and is author of a code of law- Sukra Niti.
The Harivamsa relates that he went to god Siva and asked for means of protecting the asuras/demons against the gods. , and for obtaining his object, he performed a painful rite, inhibiting the smoke of chaff with his head downwards for a thousand years. In his absence, the gods attacked the asuras and Vishnu killed his mother, for which deed he cursed him to be born seven times in the world of men.
Sukra restored his mother to life, and the gods being alarmed lest sukra’s penance should be accomplished, indra sent his daughter Jayanti to lure him from it. She waited upon him and soothed him, but he accomplished his penance and afterwards married her.
Sukra is known by his patronymic Bhargava and also Bhrigu. He is also called Kavi, Kaavya, the poet.
Sukra/ Venus is called
Asphujit and
Maghaabhava- son of maghaa
Shodasaansu- having sixteen rays;
Sweta- the white.
***
Sani /Sanaischara /Saturn / Sani in Tamil
Sani is a Shudra from the Saurashtra country and a descendent of Kasyapa Rishi , also facing the sun.
He is supposed to be born of the sun, to have blue garments and to ride on a crow or vulture or in an iron chariot drawn by eight horses. He is represented with two or four arms and stands on a lotus pedestal, but is more often found seated with four arms., his weapons being the arrow, trident and the bow.
Sani
The planet Saturn/ Sani is represented as a black man in black garments. Sani was the son of sun and Chaayaa, but another statement is that he was the offspring of Balarama and Revati. He is also known as
Aara ,Kona,Kroda and by the patronymic Saura
His influence is evil and hence he is called Kruura-dris
Kruura lochana- the evil eyed one. He is also
Manda- the slow moving, Pangu- the lame, Sanais chara- the slow moving , Saptaarchi- seven rayed and
Asita- the dark.
***
Rahu and Ketu
Rahu and Ketu are the ascending and descending nodes , but also represented as images. Rahu is a Shudra. He is of fearful face, wears black clothes and four arms holding the sword, trident and the shield. He rides on a black lion and faces the sun.
Ketu
Ketu is also a Shudra, comes from Kusadwipa and is born in the lineage of Jaimini. He has an ugly face , rides on a vulture and exhibits in his two arms the club and the Varada posture.
Rahu Ketu
Rahu and Ketu are in astronomy the ascending and descending node. Rahu is the cause of eclipses, and the term is used to designate the eclipse itself. He is also considered one of the Nava Grahas, as king of meteors and the guardian of the south west quarter.
Mythologically Rahu is a Daitya/demon, who is supposed to seize the sun and moon and swallow them. It is described in literature as a snake devouring sun and moon. Since it is in Sangam Tamil literature as well, the belief has been there for at least 2000 years from south to north of India.
Rahu was son of Vipachitti and Simhika, and is called by metronymic Sainhikeya. He had four arms and his lower part ended in a tail. He was a great mischief maker, and when the gods produced amrita by churning the ocean, he assumed a disguise, and insinuating amongst them, drank some of it. The sun and moon detected him and informed Vishnu, who cut off his head and two of his arms, but as he had secured immortality, his body was placed in the stellar sphere, the upper parts, represented by a dragon’s tail, being Ketu the descending node.
Vishnu purana says eight black horses draw the dusky chariot of Rahu . He is called Abhra pisacha- the demon of the sky; Bharani- bhuu- born from the asterism Bharani; Graha- the seizer; And Kabandha – the headless.
Ketu
The descending node in astronomy, represented by a dragon’s tail; also a comet or meteor .
Dhumaketu is comet. He is said to be a daanava and son of Vipachitti and Cimhikaa. He is also calle
Pictures are taken from various sources for spreading knowledge.
this is a non- commercial blog. Thanks for your great pictures.
tamilandvedas.com, swamiindology.blogspot.com
xxxx
Lord Krishna killed numerous demons and tyrants to restore dharma, primarily during his childhood in Vrindavana and later in Mathura and Dwarka. Key demons included Putana, Trinavarta, Aghasura, Bakasura, Dhenukasura, Keshi, Vyomasura, Narakasura, and his maternal uncle, Kamsa. His elder brother Balarama also joined him in his adventurous deeds.
1
Putana (Witch): Attempted to poison Krishna with her breast milk.
Putana was a demoness sent by King Kansa to kill the infant Krishna by breastfeeding him with poisoned milk. Disguised as a beautiful woman, she entered Gokul, but Krishna sucked her life force along with the poison, killing her.
2
Trinavarta (Whirlwind): Sent by Kamsa to carry away the infant Krishna.
Trinavarta was a demon in the form of a whirlwind sent by King Kansa to kill infant Krishna; he kidnapped the child by creating a massive dust storm in Gokul. As he flew into the sky, Krishna became unimaginably heavy, choking the demon, causing him to crash to the ground dead. Krishna was found unharmed, playing on the demon’s body.
3
Sakatasura (Cart): A ghost inhabiting a cart, broken by infant Krishna.
The Sakatasura anecdote tells of Lord Krishna killing a cart-demon sent by Kamsa to harm him during his childhood. As a three-month-old baby, Krishna kicked over a cart (his disguises) when it tried to crush him, killing the demon.
4
Vatsasura (Calf): Disguised as a calf, killed by being thrown into a tree.
Vatsasura was a demon sent by Kamsa to kill Krishna and Balarama in Vrindavana by disguising himself as a calf. While grazing calves, Krishna recognized the demon, caught him by his hind legs and tail, and spun him to death before throwing him into a tree.
5
Bakasura (Crane Demon):
One day, Kansa called for Bakasura – a fearsome bird – and told him to go get rid of Krishna. At that time, Krishna was playing in the forest with his friends, until a massive shadow fell on them. Looking up, the kids saw a monstrous bird flying straight at them. As Bakasura swooped down with his beak wide open, Krishna grabbed the sharp beak, and jumped right into it. Bakasura’s beak cracked and broke. The pain was too much, and the demon collapsed to the ground, lifeless.
6
Aghasura (Python): Younger brother of Putana, who swallowed the cowherd boys.
Aghasura was a gigantic serpent demon and brother to Putana and Bakasura, sent by Kamsa to kill Krishna in Vrindavan. He took the form of a long snake, creating a cave-like mouth that tempted cowherd boys and calves inside. Krishna rescued them by killing the demon from within, offering him liberation.
7
Dhenukasura (Ass): Killed by Balarama, with assistance from Krishna, at the palm tree forest.
Dhenukasura was a donkey-demon who guarded the Talavana (palm forest) near Vrindavan, preventing anyone from enjoying its fruits. At the urging of cowherd friends, Lord Balarama and Krishna entered the forest, where Balarama shook the trees, provoking Dhenukasura to attack. Balarama swiftly killed the demon by whirling him around and tossing him into a tree.
8
Kaliya (Serpent): Subdued and banished from the Yamuna river.
Kaliya, a Naga (serpent), moved to the Yamuna River to flee Garuda, contaminating the water so heavily that birds and trees died and the area was rendered inhabitable, say Villains Wiki and Facebook post.
While playing, Krishna’s ball went into the river, prompting him to climb a Kadamba tree and jump in to confront the beast,
Kaliya wrapped his coils around Krishna, attempting to kill him. Krishna, as a child, grew in size and began dancing on the snake’s heads, crushing him.
Kaliya’s wives, the Nag-patnis, pleaded for mercy. Krishna granted this, ordering Kaliya to leave the Yamuna forever and return to Ramanaka Dwipa, promising him safety from Garuda.
9
Pralambasura (Fiery/Forest): Slain by Balarama (with Krishna’s aid).
Pralambasura was a powerful demon sent by King Kamsa to kill Krishna and Balarama, who disguised himself as a cowherd boy to join their games in Vrindavan. During a game of tag where losers carried winners, Pralambasura lost to Balarama and carried him, aiming to kill him, but Balarama killed him with a massive blow to the head.
10
Kesi (Horse): A horse demon who was killed by Krishna.
Keshi (also spelled Kesi or Keśī, meaning “the hairy one”) is a fearsome horse-demon who was sent by the evil King Kamsa to kill Lord Krishna.
After his other demons failed to eliminate Krishna, Kamsa sent Keshi, a mighty demon capable of shapeshifting, to Vrindavan to destroy him.
Keshi took the form of a gigantic, ferocious horse. He created chaos in Gokula, terrifying residents, shattering the earth with his hooves, and roaring so loudly that clouds were scattered.
Krishna, along with his cowherd friends, challenged the horse. Keshi charged at Krishna with his mouth open, intending to devour him. Krishna, appearing unfazed, caught the demon’s legs and threw him a significant distance.
Reinvigorated, Keshi charged again. This time, Krishna thrust his left hand into the demon’s gaping mouth
Inside the demon’s throat, Krishna’s hand began to expand, choking Keshi. The demon fell to the ground dead.
11
Vyomasura (Sky/Bat): Killed while trying to hide with cowherd boys.
Vyomasura (“sky demon”) was a magical demon and son of Mayasura, sent by Kamsa to kill Krishna. While playing a game of thieves and sheep with cowherd boys on Govardhana Hill, Vyomasura disguised himself as a cowherd and kidnapped most of the boys, trapping them in a mountain cave. Krishna killed him to rescue his friend
12
Kamsa (Uncle): Tyrannical king of Mathura.
A tyrannical king of Mathura. Maternal uncle of Krishna . son of ugrasena and father of Devaki, mother of Krishna. He married twin daughters of Jarasandha named Asti and Prapti, king of Magadha. He deposed his father Ugrasena. It was foretold that a son born of Devaki should kill him. So he killed all children born to her except two. Balarama, her seventh son was smuggled out to Gokula and was brought up by Rohini. When Krishna was born as the eighth child his parents fled with him. The tyrant then gave orders to kill all vigorous male children . Kamsa persecuted Krishna and at the end Krishna killed him. Because of this he earned the enmity of Jarasandha. Kamsa was also called kalaankura, the crane.
***
13
Narakasura (Demon King): Killed for ruling with terror and imprisoning thousands of women.
Narakasura,, the son of Bhudevi (Earth Goddess) and Vishnu’s Varaha avatar, was known for his tyranny, abduction of 16,100 women, and theft of divine treasures. He was killed by Lord Krishna and Satyabhama (reincarnation of Bhudevi) to restore righteousness, with his death celebrated as Naraka Chaturdashi before Diwali.
Born from the union of Vishnu’s Varaha form and Bhudevi, he was initially pious but grew arrogant and evil due to the influence of Banasura.
He terrorized the three worlds (heavens and earth), stole Aditi’s (mother of gods) earrings, and forced 16,100 women into captivity.
Due to a boon, he could only be killed by his mother. Satyabhama, Krishna’s wife and Bhudevi’s reincarnation, fought him, while Krishna killed him with the Sudarshana Chakra.
Legacy (Diwali): He requested that his death be celebrated as a victory of light over dark, leading to the tradition of Naraka Chaturdashi, where his effigies are burned.
Liberation of Wives: Following his death, Krishna married the 16,100 women rescued from captivity to restore their social honor.
14
Shishupala
Shishupala was a Chedi king in the Mahabharata born with three eyes and four arms, destined to die at Krishna’s hands. Due to a promise made to Shishupala’s mother, Krishna forgave his first 100 insults, but killed him with the Sudarshana Chakra at the Rajasuya Yajna after the 101st insult, granting him liberation.
Birth & Prophecy: Born to Damaghosha and Shrutashrava (Krishna’s aunt), his physical abnormalities vanished when placed on Krishna’s lap, confirming the prophecy.
The Promise: His mother, knowing his destined death, persuaded Krishna to pardon 100 offenses.
Enmity toward Krishna: Shishupala harbored deep hatred after Krishna married Rukmini, who was intended for him.
The Final Insult: At Yudhishthira’s Rajasuya sacrifice, Shishupala insulted Krishna when he was honored as the supreme guest. Krishna unleashed the Sudarshana Chakra after the 100th insult.
Liberation: Shishupala was a reincarnation of Jaya (a gatekeeper of Vishnu) cursed to spend three lives as Vishnu’s enemy. His death by Krishna granted his soul liberation
15
Dantavakra: Dantavakra, the King of Karusha and a cousin to Krishna, was a ferocious enemy of Krishna, acting as a mortal incarnation of Vishnu’s gatekeeper, Vijaya. Seeking to avenge the death of his friend Shishupala, he attacked Krishna alone with a mace but was killed, granting him salvation.
16
Wrestler Chanura
The fight between Chanura/Mushtika and Krishna/Balarama was a pivotal wrestling match held in Mathura, orchestrated by King Kamsa to kill Krishna.
Kamsa invited Krishna and Balarama to a Dhanur Yajna (bow ceremony) intending to trap them. He set up his strongest wrestlers, Chanur and Mushtika, to fight the young brothers, hoping to end them.
Despite the unfair matchup, Krishna fought Chanur while Balarama took on Mushtika. The fight took place in an arena watched by Kamsa.
Krishna defeated and killed Chanur, showcasing his divine strength.
Balarama defeated and killed Mushtik.
Aftermath: Following the defeat of these champions, Krishna killed the tyrant king Kamsa in a subsequent confrontation in the same arena.
17
Wrestler Mushtika
18
Arishtasura (Bull Demon)
The demon Ariṣṭa wanted to kill Krishna and Balarāma, and thus he assumed the form of a huge bull with sharp horns. Everyone in Kṛishṇa’s cowherd village became terrified when Ariṣṭāsura approached it;but twhen the bull demon charged him he seized him by the horns and threw him to the ground and thrashed him like a pile of wet clothing. The demon gave up his life.
19
Kala Yavana
Kalayavana- kaalayavana
Kālayavana (कालयवन).—a kind of yavanas and enemy of Kṛṣṇa and an invincible foe of the Yādavas. Kṛṣṇa, finding it impossible to vanquish him on the field of battle, cunningly decoyed him to the cave where Muchakunda was sleeping who burnt him down.
Lord Krishna was chased by a Kala yavana and Krishna entered the cave where Mucukunda was sleeping. When Mucukunda became tired he got a boon from God to sleep undisturbed for a long time in a cave. Kalayavana also entered the cave and slapped on Mucukundan thinking that it was Krishna pretending to sleep. When Mucukunda opened his eyes, Kalayavana was burnt to ashes. Tricky Krishna came out of his hiding and blessed Mucukunda.
20
Kuvalayapeedam
The anecdote of Kuvalayapida (often referred to as Kuvalaya Peedam in Tamil contexts) concerns a massive, intoxicated royal elephant sent by the tyrant King Kamsa to kill Lord Krishna and his brother Balarama upon their arrival in Mathura.
The Trap: Knowing that Krishna was destined to destroy him, Kamsa arranged a wrestling match and stationed his most feared, maddened elephant, Kuvalayapida, at the gate of the arena, managed by a skilled rider.
The Challenge: As Krishna and Balarama approached the entrance, the mahout ordered the elephant to attack.
The Victory: Krishna accepted the challenge and, showcasing superhuman strength, seized the elephant by its tusks, broke them off, and used them to instantly kill both the beast and its rider.
21
· The Binding (Damodara):Dama means rope, udara means belly; Krishna is named Damodara for having a rope tied around His abdomen.
· The Turning Point: Seeing His mother tired, Krishna allows Himself to be bound, demonstrating His love for His devotees.
· The Liberation: While tied to the mortar, Krishna drags it and topples two Arjuna trees, liberating the sons of Kubera, Nalakubara and Manigriva, who were cursed to be trees.
Pictures are taken from various sources for spreading knowledge.
this is a non- commercial blog. Thanks for your great pictures.
tamilandvedas.com, swamiindology.blogspot.com
xxxx
Puducherry, also called Pondicherry, was ruled by French until 1954. The French de facto left Pondicherry on November 1, 1954, transferring control to India, with the formal de jure transfer occurring on August 16, 1962. The colony officially merged with India on July 1, 1963, ending nearly 300 years of French presence. Still we can see street names in French. Many of the residents have voting rights in France. Puducherry people cast votes in French elections.
There are many attractions in Puducherry: a few museums, Bharatiyar park, Manakkulam Vinayakar Temple Aravinda/ Aurobindo Ashram
Though I have visited the famous Ganesh temple a few times, this time, during my visit to the city on 13-3-2026, I have included all the three places. From Kumbakonam we rushed to Aravinda Ashram, knowing it would close at 11-30 am for lunch break. I entered the Ashram at 11-15 and went round the Samadhis of Sri Aravindar and Annai/Mother. One could feel the holy vibrations in the serene atmosphere. A lot of living flowering plants and a lot of flower garlands in the Samadhis are visible. But no one could stand there. Volunteers ask everyone to move forward. But you could do many rounds if here is not a long queue. Visitors touch the samadhis with both hands or their forehead to show their reverence. I spent 15 minutes there. No photography is allowed. The sentry at the entrance asks everyone to switch of their mobile phones et. Again, it opened at 2 pm and meditation is allowed.
The Ashram is located in the eastern part of Pondicherry, along the coast of the Bay of Bengal. It is 160 kilometres (100 miles) south of Chennai. The main Ashram building, where the Samadhi of Sri Aurobindo and the Mother is located, is open to all during visiting hours: 8.00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 2.00 to 6.00 p.m. At other times, you need to have a pass in order to enter. The Sri Aurobindo Ashram Publication Department publishes the works of Sri Aurobindo and the Mother and works by disciples on their life and teachings, in over 15 languages.
The Publication Department’s distribution unit is SABDA. It has two retail outlets, Service branch inside the Sri Aurobindo Ashram main building, and Kripa branch diagonally opposite it. The head office of the Publication Department and SABDA is at 17, Rue de la Marine (next to our Kripa branch).
I did not buy any book, because my father has left us his important works.
Aurobindo (Aravinda) was a poet, freedom fighter and a philosopher. He interpreted the Vedas in a different way, instead of translating them verbatim. His Vedic glossary give new meanings to important words.
Who is Aravindar?
Sri Aurobindo (Aurobindo Ghose, 1872–1950)
Early Life & Education: Born in Calcutta, Aurobindo Ghose was educated in England (Manchester and Cambridge) from age seven, becoming proficient in Western classics and languages before returning to India in 1893.
Nationalist Fighter (1893–1910): He was a key figure in the early Indian independence movement, advocating for complete independence (Purna Swaraj) rather than colonial self-government. He was jailed in 1908 in connection with the Alipore Bomb Case.
Spiritual Transformation & Ashram (1910–1950): Following intense spiritual experiences in Alipore jail, he withdrew from politics and moved to Pondicherry to focus on spiritual practice.
Integral Yoga & Philosophy: He taught that life is a divine manifestation and that humanity can evolve beyond the mind into a “Supermind,” uniting spiritual life with worldly activity.
Works: He was a prolific writer, with major works including The Life Divine (philosophy), The Synthesis of Yoga, and the epic poem Savitri.
The Mother: He was assisted in his spiritual work by Mirra Alfassa, known as “The Mother,” who took over the management of the Ashram after his passing in 1950.
Auroville: He is the inspiration behind the experimental township of Auroville, intended to be a city of human unity.
***
MANAKKULAM VINAYAKAR TEMPLE
It is a vibrant temple with lot of devotees visiting it every minute. Big temple with lot of Ganesh shrines inside. Walls are decorated with different forms of Ganapati/Vinayakar detailing the puranic stories. Entry is free and Thayir Sadham (Curd bath) Prasad is distributed. One can finish Darshan (Viewing ) in half hour or so. It is just opposite Aurobindo Ashram. Both the places are dotted with lot of street vendors selling different things for tourists.
Bharatiyar worshipped in the temple during his stay in Puducherry. His poem on this Ganesh made him popular in Tamil Nadu. I visited the temple on 13-3-2026, for the third time.
Sri Manakula Vinayagar Temple was in existence before the French came and settled in Pondicherry i.e. before 1666. In Tamil ‘Manal’ means sand and ‘Kulam’ means pond near the sea, So the people called the god as Manal Kulathu Vinayagar means God near the pond of sand]. .The Jesuits and missionaries tried to demolish Manakula Vinayagar, but they could not demolish the temple. During 1700 French prohibited performing poojas and festivals particularly on Fridays in the temple. All the Hindus who were worshipping Lord Vinayaga objected and migrated to English Territory. Everything changed in course of time.
***
Disappointing Museum
After visiting Ashram and Temple, I visited Puducherry museum and bought Rs 10 ticket, probably the cheapest museum ticket in the whole wide world. All worn out statues are placed outside, but photography was not allowed inside.
Three things I would like to point out:
1. The Museum has beautiful bronze, numbering over 80. But you cant take pictures and no book is available with the pictures. No picture post cards are sold. Very disappointing. All over the world museums do roaring business by selling books and picture cards and mementos. I bought picture cards even in Colombo Museum. When I asked at the reception, they told me no book was published about the artifacts in the museum.
2. They must learn from other parts of the world. Ten rupees entry fee is dead cheap, ridiculously cheap; they must raise the fee and allow photography.
3. One can finish the viewing in 30 minutes. It must be placed in a larger building with more information.
Following is the summary from museum website
The Puducherry Museum presents glimpses of geological, archaeological and historical periods and seeks to highlight the many facets of its arts and crafts which have now become part of Puducherry’s rich heritage.
The following galleries/sections are set up in the museum.
The French India Gallery (One)
An issue of ‘Vijaya’ the first daily edited by Poet Subramania Bharathi is also on display there.
The Archaeology Section
The Bronze Gallery
This is the most attractive gallery.
Exquisite pieces of divine images, mostly found as treasure troves adorn the bronze gallery. The panchaloga images of the Dancing Siva (Nataraja) umamaheswara, thiripurantaka/thiripurasundari in the graceful tribhanga posture from Sorakkudi. There are specimens of bronzes of the Vijayanagar and Nayaka periods.
Display of Vehiccles (Southern Courtyard)
Sculptures (Courtyard- North and South)
A few specimen of Pallava and Chola sculptures were displayed in and around the ‘Place de Government’ since the French days.
French India Gallery (Two) Comprising
a) The Drawing Chamber/Salon (Central Hall)
b) The Dinning Chamber/Salle d’ Manger
c) The Bed Chamber/ Chambre a coucher
The Arms Gallery
Gallery of Art and Crafts (Western Wing)
Displayed in two adjacent halls respectively are a variety of hand made items and artifacts crafted by artisans in France and Puducherry.
The Geological Section (Southern Colonnade)
Puducherry Museum Visiting Hours
Opened For Public From Tuesday To Sunday
Timing: 10.00 AM To 5.00 PM(Without Lunch Break)
Monday is Weekly Holiday
Following sites show the pictures of some specimens. But the pictures are not of good quality.
That is why I ask them to allow the visitors to take pictures. They must raise the entry fee for public; concessions may be given to students. The museum needs a large venue for a better display.
–subham-
Tags: My visit, Puducherry, Museum, Manakulathu Vinayakar temple, Aurobindo Ashram, three birds, one stone
.JPG)
.jpg)
.JPG)
.JPG)
(3.78MB)
(9.55MB)
(6.90MB)
(12.03MB)
(358.54KB)
(312.63KB)
