Writing.

 

Triveni.

 https://youtu.be/6hqLD8D2r0Q?si=NxKVng8SINw12jQj

muktamayalankrtamudraveni

bhaktabhayatranasubaddhaveni

mattaligunjanmakarandaveni

srimat prayage jayati triveni.  1.

lokatrayasvaryanidanaveni

tapatrayoccatanabaddhaveni

dharmarthakamakalanaikaveni

srimat prayage jayati triveni.  2.

muktanganamohanasiddhaveni

bhaktantaranandasubodhaveni

vrttyantarodvegavivekaveni

srimat prayage jayatitriveni.  3.

dugdhodadhisphurjasubhadra veni

nilabharasobhalalita ca veni

svarnaprabhabhasuramadhya veni

srimat prayage jayati triveni.  4.

visvesvarottungakapardi veni

virincivisnupranataikaveni

trayipurana surasardhaveni

srimat prayage jayati triveni.  5.

mangalyasampattisamvddha veni

matrantaranyastanidanaveni

paramparapatakahariveni

srimat prayage jayati triveni.  6.

nimajjadunmajjamanusya veni

trayodayo bhagyaviveka veni

vimuktajanmavibhavaika veni

srimatprayage jayati triveni. 7.

saundarya veni surasardhaveni

madhuryaveni mahaniya veni

ratnaikaveniramaniya veni

srimat prayage jayati triveni.  8.

sarasvata karavighata veni

kalindakanya mayalaksya veni

bhagirathirupamahesaveni

srimat prayage jayati triveni.  9.

srimadbhavanibhavanaika veni

laksmisarasvatyabhimana veni

mata triveni trayiratna veni

srimat prayage jayati triveni.  10.

trienidasakam stotram pratarnityan pathennarah

tasya veni prasanna syadvisnu lokamsa gacchati.  1

iti srimacchanikaracaryo viracitam triveni stotram.

K and A

Kuram, a small town located near Kanchipuram in Tamil Nadu, holds an illustrious place in the annals of Hindu spirituality. Though humble in size, Kuram is renowned as the birthplace of two of the most revered figures in Vaishnavism—Koorathazhwan and Anantazhwan—who are celebrated for their unparalleled devotion, scholarship, and service to the divine cause of spreading the teachings of Sri Ramanujacharya and Sri Vaishnavism.

Kuram, steeped in tradition and devotion, is closely tied to the life and mission of Sri Ramanujacharya, the 11th-century reformer and philosopher. It is believed that the soil of Kuram nurtured not only great scholars but also devotees whose lives reflected supreme surrender (prapatti) and love for Lord Vishnu. The town embodies the values of selfless service, humility, and the eternal pursuit of spiritual wisdom.

The most prominent saint associated with Kuram is Koorathazhwan, an eminent disciple of Sri Ramanujacharya. Alongside him, Anantazhwan, another devotee of the Sri Vaishnava tradition, is often mentioned as a luminary who carried forward Ramanujacharya's legacy. Together, these saints have made Kuram an enduring beacon of spiritual excellence.

Koorathazhwan: The Jewel of Kuram

Koorathazhwan, also known as Kuresa, was born in a pious and wealthy Brahmin family in Kuram. His given name was Kuresan. From a young age, Kuresa exhibited extraordinary intelligence, humility, and devotion to Lord Vishnu. Despite his affluence, he lived a life of simplicity, prioritizing charity and service to others.

Kuresa’s wealth was used for the welfare of society, feeding and supporting those in need. However, as he grew spiritually, he realized that material wealth was transient, and he yearned for eternal wealth—devotion to Lord Narayana.

Association with Sri Ramanujacharya

Kuresa’s life took a divine turn when he came into contact with Sri Ramanujacharya, the greatest proponent of Visishtadvaita philosophy. Inspired by Ramanujacharya's vision and teachings, Kuresa renounced his material wealth and became a devoted disciple of the Acharya.

He played an indispensable role in Ramanujacharya's mission, accompanying him in spreading the tenets of Sri Vaishnavism. Kuresa’s unwavering devotion, profound knowledge of the scriptures, and unshakable faith in his guru made him a cornerstone of the tradition.

The Sacrifice at the Court of Kulothunga Chola

One of the most remarkable incidents in Kuresa’s life highlights his selfless devotion and spiritual resolve. When the tyrannical Chola king, Kulothunga, sought to persecute Sri Ramanujacharya for opposing Shaivism, Kuresa disguised himself as his guru to protect him. Captured and tortured by the king, Kuresa's eyes were blinded for refusing to sign a decree denying the supremacy of Lord Vishnu.

Despite his physical suffering, Kuresa remained steadfast in his devotion. His sacrifice ensured the safety of Ramanujacharya, who was able to escape and continue his work. Later, Kuresa composed profound devotional hymns and philosophical treatises that continue to inspire seekers.

Literary Contributions

Koorathazhwan was not only a saint but also a scholar. His contributions to Sri Vaishnavism include:

1. Sri Vaikunta Stava: A hymn glorifying the divine abode of Lord Vishnu.

2. Athimanusha Stava: Praising the divine qualities of Lord Rama.

3. Sundarabahu Stava: Highlighting the beauty and compassion of Lord Narayana.

4. Varadaraja Stava: Dedicated to Lord Varadaraja of Kanchipuram, the family deity of Kuresa.

Through these works, Kuresa illuminated the core teachings of Visishtadvaita philosophy, emphasizing surrender and devotion to Lord Narayana.

Anantazhwan: A Disciple of Determination

While Koorathazhwan remains the central figure of Kuram, another saint deeply associated with the tradition is Anantazhwan. Known as the gardener of Tirumala, Anantazhwan was a disciple of Sri Ramanujacharya who dedicated his life to the service of Lord Venkateswara in Tirupati.

Anantazhwan was instructed by Ramanujacharya to beautify the Tirumala temple and establish a garden to provide flowers for the deity. His service was marked by unwavering commitment and intense devotion, often performed under challenging circumstances. His life exemplifies the ideal of kaimkaryam (selfless service to God), a core value of Sri Vaishnavism.

Anantazhwan is remembered for his heroic dedication in defending the sanctity of the Tirumala temple and for his humility in serving the Lord without any expectation of reward. His legacy continues to inspire devotees and temple servants to this day.

Kuram: A Living Legacy

Kuram is more than a geographical location; it is a spiritual landmark that represents the eternal values of humility, sacrifice, and devotion. The lives of Koorathazhwan and Anantazhwan demonstrate how one can achieve spiritual greatness through unwavering faith, service to the guru, and surrender to God.

To this day, the town of Kuram is visited by devotees who seek to connect with the legacy of these saints. The Koorathazhwan Temple, located in Kuram, stands as a testament to the saint’s life and teachings. Festivals and rituals held in his honor draw devotees from far and wide, offering a glimpse into the rich heritage of Sri Vaishnavism.

Kuram and its great saints serve as timeless inspirations for spiritual seekers. Koorathazhwan’s sacrifice and unwavering faith, coupled with Anantazhwan’s tireless service, illuminate the path of surrender and devotion. Their lives remind us that true greatness lies not in worldly achievements but in selfless service to the divine and unwavering commitment to spiritual truth.

As we reflect on their lives, let us strive to imbibe their qualities of humility, devotion, and selflessness, transforming our own lives into offerings of love and surrender to the Supreme.

Dasar.

 https://youtu.be/6zPaP1tXkJQ?si=vrUxh8dysafJyhq0

The Great Village of Kuram and Its Saints

Kuram, a small yet historically significant village in Tamil Nadu, holds an esteemed place in the annals of spirituality and devotion. Located near the sacred city of Kanchipuram, Kuram has been immortalized in the spiritual map of India for being the birthplace of one of the greatest Alvars, Saint Koorathazhwan, a central figure in the Sri Vaishnava tradition.

Koorathazhwan: The Jewel of Kuram

Saint Koorathazhwan, also known as Kuresa, was an ardent devotee of Lord Vishnu and a foremost disciple of the illustrious Acharya, Sri Ramanuja. Born into a wealthy and noble family in Kuram, Koorathazhwan’s life was a testament to humility, scholarship, and supreme devotion. Despite his material riches, he renounced worldly pleasures to serve his guru and propagate the teachings of Vishishtadvaita philosophy.

Koorathazhwan played a pivotal role in assisting Sri Ramanuja in composing the renowned Sri Bhashya, a commentary on the Brahma Sutras. His unparalleled memory and deep understanding of scriptures were instrumental in preserving and disseminating the philosophical teachings of the Sri Vaishnava tradition.

The saint is also celebrated for his unwavering faith and sacrifice. When Chola king Kulothunga demanded a declaration against Vaishnavism, Koorathazhwan willingly faced persecution to protect his guru and the faith. His act of offering his own eyes instead of succumbing to the king’s demands is a shining example of his spiritual fortitude.

While Koorathazhwan is the most celebrated figure from Kuram, the village itself has been a nurturing ground for many scholars and saints who dedicated their lives to the service of Lord Vishnu and the Sri Vaishnava sampradaya. The spiritual aura of Kuram continues to inspire devotees and seekers even today.

Kuram’s legacy is not confined to its past. The village remains a beacon of devotion, scholarship, and selflessness, as exemplified by its great saint, Koorathazhwan. It serves as a reminder of the timeless values of humility, sacrifice, and unwavering devotion to God, which are central to the Sri Vaishnava tradition.

By honoring Kuram and its saints, we pay homage to a lineage of spiritual greatness that continues to guide countless seekers on their path to liberation.

Also read my earlier article kurathalawan my favorite written some few years ago. May be 2019.

Impresive.

 https://www.youtube.com/live/_UMmc_nxr5I?si=IfvmylrCUiedyzT1

Lotus eye of VISHNU.

 I have not much knowledge of Lord Siva. I was taken aback by this verse appearing in the Siva mahimsi stotra and so thought of finding out more about this incident. It's purely folk lore I think. Created to inculcate devotion in humans. The pinnacle of devotion can be seen in this act. 

I can't vouch for the/ rather have never read of this before. Anyways here is what I came across. As it is interesting sharing it here. 

The Shiva Mākṣima Stotram is a beautiful hymn composed in praise of Lord Shiva, the supreme cosmic reality and the destroyer in the Hindu trinity (Trimurti). It is attributed to Pushpadanta, a Gandharva (celestial being), who is also credited with the famous Shiva Mahimna Stotram. The term "Mākṣima" suggests greatness or supreme exaltation, aligning it closely with Shiva’s infinite and transcendent glory.

While detailed references to this specific stotram are scarce in traditional scriptures, it is often mentioned alongside Shiva Mahimna Stotram due to their shared themes of glorification of Shiva. These stotras focus on Shiva's transcendence, immanence, and his role as both the destroyer of ignorance and the benevolent protector of the universe.

Pushpadanta, the celestial musician, composed hymns as acts of reverence to atone for unintentionally disturbing Shiva or stealing flowers meant for his worship. Such stotras exemplify humility and devotion.

Key Themes of the Shiva Mākṣima Stotram

1. Shiva's Infinite Nature

The stotram extols Shiva as Nirguna (without attributes) and Saguna (with attributes), the ultimate reality that transcends all dualities and limitations.

2. The Cosmic Lord

Shiva is described as the master of time (Mahakala), space, and all creation, dissolution, and preservation cycles. The stotram praises his form as the eternal auspiciousness (Shiva), residing beyond the confines of the material world.

3. Grace and Compassion

Lord Shiva’s qualities of compassion (Karuna) and his willingness to protect and uplift devotees are emphasized. Despite being the all-powerful Lord, Shiva is accessible to all who surrender to him with faith.

4. The Path to Liberation

The stotram conveys that devotion to Shiva purifies the soul and removes the cycles of birth and death (Samsara), leading to Moksha (liberation).

5. Unity of Shiva and Shakti

It highlights the union of Shiva and Shakti (his consort, Parvati), symbolizing the inseparable nature of consciousness and energy, or Purusha and Prakriti.

Philosophical and Devotional Messages

The Shiva Mākṣima Stotram blends philosophy with devotion, emphasizing:

The supremacy of Shiva as the unchanging reality behind the ever-changing universe.

The path of surrender (bhakti) as a means to attain liberation.

The insignificance of ego and pride when faced with Shiva’s boundless grandeur.

The idea that Shiva is beyond caste, creed, and external rituals, and what matters is inner purity and devotion.

Pushpadanta’s Contribution

Pushpadanta’s hymns are celebrated for their literary beauty, deep philosophical insights, and unparalleled devotion. His works, like the Shiva Mahimna Stotram, are widely revered in Hinduism, with many believing they were divinely inspired.

If we consider the Shiva Mākṣima Stotram to be a part of his oeuvre, it further reflects his mastery in capturing Shiva’s essence and the humility with which he approached the divine.

The Shiva Mākṣima Stotram stands as a testament to the devotion of Pushpadanta and the ineffable glory of Lord Shiva. It urges devotees to rise above material concerns and turn toward Shiva, the eternal source of bliss and liberation. Reciting or meditating on the stotram fosters humility, devotion, and spiritual growth, bringing the devotee closer to Shiva's infinite grace.

The story of Lord Vishnu offering His lotus-eye in place of a missing lotus flower is indeed closely tied to the themes of devotion, humility, and transcendence—concepts that align deeply with the philosophical underpinnings of hymns like the Shiva Mākṣima Stotram. While this particular act of Vishnu is not directly mentioned in every Shiva-centric hymn, its inclusion in some versions or interpretations of the Shiva Mākṣima Stotram can be understood symbolically and contextually.

Here’s how and why this episode finds relevance in a hymn devoted to Shiva:

1. The Lotus-Eye Story and Its Connection to Devotion

Lord Vishnu’s act of offering His lotus-eye demonstrates the highest form of bhakti (devotion) and selflessness. This resonates with Shiva's role as the supreme embodiment of austerity and spiritual surrender. By recounting such stories in the Shiva Mākṣima Stotram:

The hymn emphasizes that true devotion transcends rituals and formalities, focusing instead on sacrifice and sincerity.

It highlights that even Vishnu, the preserver of the universe, demonstrates exemplary devotion—an attribute Shiva cherishes in all beings.

The inclusion of this story serves as a reminder to devotees that their offerings to Shiva (or any deity) should be made with pure devotion, even if it requires personal sacrifice.

2. Unity of Shiva and Vishnu

The story subtly reinforces the oneness of Shiva and Vishnu, a recurring theme in many scriptures and stotras. Despite being worshiped differently, Shiva and Vishnu are often seen as manifestations of the same supreme reality. By referencing Vishnu's devotion in the Shiva Mākṣima Stotram:

The hymn bridges the philosophical divide between Shaivism and Vaishnavism, illustrating the harmony between the two.

It portrays Vishnu, a divine figure, as a devotee of Shiva, thereby exalting Shiva’s supreme status.

In this context, Vishnu’s lotus-eye offering becomes an example of how even gods worship and revere Shiva.

3. Symbolism of the Lotus and the Eye

The lotus is a universal symbol of spiritual awakening, purity, and detachment, all of which align with Shiva’s essence as the ultimate goal of spiritual realization.

The eye, often linked to vision and knowledge, symbolizes self-awareness and inner clarity. Vishnu’s willingness to offer His eye suggests surrendering even one’s self-identity in the pursuit of divine connection.

By incorporating this story, the hymn underscores the idea that devotion requires both detachment from worldly attachments (symbolized by the lotus) and self-surrender (symbolized by the eye).

4. Significance in Shiva Worship

Lord Shiva is often depicted as being moved by pure, heartfelt devotion rather than grand rituals. By mentioning Vishnu’s offering, the Shiva Mākṣima Stotram conveys:

Inclusivity of devotion: Anyone, from the supreme god Vishnu to an ordinary devotee, can attain Shiva’s grace through unflinching faith and humility.

The importance of intent: The act of devotion, rather than its material grandeur, is what matters most. Vishnu’s substitution of His eye for the lotus highlights the power of intent in worship.

5. A Test of Devotion

The missing lotus in Vishnu’s offering could symbolize divine tests that challenge the resolve of devotees. Shiva, known for testing His devotees' faith, would find immense satisfaction in such acts of perseverance and selflessness. By including this story:

The hymn reiterates that trials are part of the spiritual journey and that true devotion lies in overcoming them with courage and surrender.

It portrays Shiva as a compassionate deity who rewards supreme dedication.

The inclusion of Lord Vishnu’s lotus-eye offering in the Shiva Mākṣima Stotram emphasizes themes of devotion, unity, and transcendence. It illustrates how Shiva values heartfelt worship, be it from a mortal or a god, and that ultimate surrender to the divine leads to grace and liberation. This story also bridges the philosophical unity between Shiva and Vishnu, reflecting the overarching message of non-duality (advaita) and the interconnectedness of the divine forces.

Lotus eye.

This entry was surprising as I was hearing it for the first time in the Siva Mahimai Stotra. When researched came across this story which was even more surprising.. May be more so from the annals of Devi bhaktas and their literature. Interesting though so sharing it here. 

 This incident, steeped in devotion and symbolic richness, is an episode from the lore surrounding Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, specifically highlighting His steadfast bhakti (devotion) toward the Divine Mother. Let us explore its deeper meaning and narrative in detail.

The Story in Context

Lord Vishnu, the preserver among the Trimurti, embodies supreme devotion, not just to His duties but also to the cosmic forces that sustain creation. Goddess Lakshmi, the personification of prosperity, beauty, and divine grace, is worshiped as His consort and the ultimate source of spiritual and material abundance.

Once, Lord Vishnu resolved to offer a grand puja to Devi Lakshmi, His beloved consort, to express His reverence. As part of His offering, He decided to worship her with 1,000 lotuses, symbolic of purity and spiritual awakening. Vishnu meticulously gathered 1,000 lotuses, ensuring that no imperfection marred His devotion.

The Missing Lotus

During the course of the puja, Vishnu discovered that one lotus flower was missing from the meticulously counted collection. This small imperfection, seemingly accidental, is often interpreted as a divine test of His devotion by the Goddess Herself.

Rather than allowing the ritual to remain incomplete, Vishnu immediately decided to remedy the situation. He contemplated that His eyes, often described in scriptures as "lotus-like" (kamala-netra), could substitute for the missing lotus. Without hesitation, He plucked one of His eyes and offered it to the feet of the Goddess to complete the puja.

The Award of Sudarshana Chakra

Pleased beyond measure with Vishnu's unwavering devotion and sacrifice, Goddess Lakshmi appeared before Him in Her resplendent form. She praised His readiness to endure pain for the sake of devotion and awarded Him the Sudarshana Chakra, a powerful discus imbued with Her divine energy. The Sudarshana Chakra became Vishnu's ultimate weapon, representing both His role as the protector of dharma and the Goddess's enduring grace.

With the Chakra, Vishnu safeguards the three worlds (heaven, earth, and the netherworld), symbolizing that divine grace, when earned through pure devotion, enables one to overcome all obstacles and maintain cosmic harmony.

Symbolic Interpretations

1. Devotion Beyond Comfort

Vishnu's act of offering His eye illustrates the principle that true devotion transcends physical or material sacrifices. It highlights the idea that a devotee should be willing to give up even what is dearest to them for the sake of divine love.

2. The Eye as the Lotus

The lotus is not merely a flower in Hindu symbolism; it represents spiritual awakening and detachment. By offering His lotus-like eye, Vishnu shows the importance of seeing the world through a lens of divine consciousness and purity.

3. The Sudarshana Chakra as Divine Grace

The Sudarshana Chakra represents the divine power bestowed upon those who dedicate themselves entirely to the service of the Divine. It also signifies that true devotion is always reciprocated by divine protection and blessings.

4. Testing Devotion

The missing flower can be seen as a metaphorical challenge, a reminder that the path of devotion is fraught with obstacles. Only those who persevere with unwavering faith can transcend these hurdles.

The tale is not merely a mythological account but a profound teaching for aspirants on the spiritual path. It emphasizes:

The importance of sincerity and selflessness in worship.

The value of sacrifice as an expression of devotion.

The assurance that divine grace will always reward true bhakti.

This narrative also illustrates the intimate bond between the devotee and the Divine. It assures devotees that their efforts, no matter how small, are cherished by the Divine when offered with love and purity.

The story of Vishnu's offering of His lotus-eye is a timeless reminder of the transformative power of devotion. Through this act, Vishnu not only set a precedent for perfect bhakti but also demonstrated that devotion and grace are intertwined, each nourishing the other. The Sudarshana Chakra, born from this episode, remains a powerful symbol of divine justice and protection, ensuring that dharma prevails in the cosmic order.