Sri Chakra

The Source of the Cosmos

The Journal of the Sri Rajarajeswari Peetam, Rush, NY

Sri Lakshmi Devi

during Kulirtti,
Navaratri Brahmotsavam 2020

Blossom 26 Petal 1 March 2021

Sri Rajarajeswari Peetam Sri Chakra
• 6980 East•River
srichakra@srividya.org
Road • Rush, NY 14543 • (585) 533 - 1970
Blossom 26, Petal 1

IN THIS ISSUE
NEW! A 25 Year Successful Journey! 3
Bhūmi Pūjā Invitation 4
Temple Bulletin 5
Connect With Us 6
Note from the SVTS Administration 7
Past Events 8
Upcoming Temple Events 9
Steps Towards Our Granite Temple 10
Aiya’s Vision XI 12
Lalita’s Sahasra Namas II 14
A Journey into the Navākṣarī Ratneśvarī Mantrās II 20
Aiya’s Talks: Sacred Rites & Rituals of Sanatana Dharma I 21
Gānāmrutham - Essence of Sivapuranam II 23
Gānāmrutham - Skanda Sashti Kavacham I 28
Gurus, Saints and Sages - Sri Ramakrishna Paramahamsa II 30
Naivēdyam Nivēdayāmi - Black Sesame Rice 34
Kids Korner! - Lakshmi vs. Sarasvati I 37
Kids Korner! - Bala Vidya Video Infographics 40
2
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
 Sri Chakra ● March 2021

3
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
Blossom 26, Petal 1

Program of Events
Welcome
Sri Ganapati Puja
Sri Vastu Puja
Sri Bhumi Puja
Messages from Special Guests
Vote Of Thanks

Kindly note that this is an outdoor event. The entire program will be live-streamed for those who are not
able to attend in person. Those who wish to attend in person are kindly requested to register. All
Covid-19 safety guidelines will be followed, for everyone's safety.

We wish to let you know, we are also planning another puja and homa event in May, so that more dev-
otees will be able to attend physically and bless this project. More details will be provided soon.

Register to Attend Physically Watch the LIvestream

4
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
 Sri Chakra ● March 2021

RAJAGOPURAM
PROJECT
WWW.SRIVIDYA.ORG

Over the past 40 years, the Sri

Rajarajeswari Peetam (Sri Vidya
Temple) has evolved into an important
center for the worship of the Divine
Mother Rajarajeswari, attracting
thousands of visitors each year from
around the world.

As many of you may know, temple

TEMPLE LINKS
founder Sri Chaitanyananda (Haran
Aiya) has been speaking about the
need for a more permanent sacred
home for Devi for a number of years. Private Homa/Puja Booking: srividya.org/puja
With the grace of our Guru and Guru Rajagopuram Project: srividya.org/granite-temple
lineage, we have embarked on the Email Subscriptions: srividya.org/email
next phase in the Temple’s Temple Timings: srividya.org/events
development. The “Rajagopuram Event Livestream: srividya.org/youtube
Project” entails the construction of a Summer Youth Camp (VSI): srividya.org/vsi
unique new temple in granite for Sri Online Donation: srividya.org/donate
Vidya Lokamata Rajarajeswari Devi Learning at SVTS: srividya.org/learn
complete with traditional
Rajagopuram. To learn more, visit
srividya.org/granite-temple.

ALAYA NIRMANA GANAPATI PUJA

Sri Amma had advised the Temple to conduct a daily puja for Sri Maha Ganapati
on the location where He will be installed in the new Granite Temple. This daily
puja commenced on the auspicious full moon day on May 28, 2018 and has been
continuing since.

The Temple Board & Administration would like to invite all disciples to offer
their love and devotion towards the Rajagopuram Project by taking part in
performing this daily Ganapati Puja. All who have received mantra diksha from
Aiya, Guruji or Gurugaru are welcome and encouraged to sign up to do the puja
on the day(s) of their choice. Please contact the Temple Administration for
details.
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
Blossom 26, Petal 1

Connect with SVTS

6980 East River Road
Rush, NY
14543
USA
1-585-533-1970
1-416-628-3786

www.srividya.org

info@srividya.org

Sri Vidya Temple

Sri Vidya Temple

Sri Vidya Temple

Sri Vidya Temple

Sri Vidya Temple

6
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
 Sri Chakra ● March 2021

Positive Growth & Exciting News

from the SVTS Temple Administration
Dear Devotees,

With our Guru and Devi’s grace and blessings, we hope all of you are well and
safe. The Sri Rajarajeswari Peetam is doing all we can to keep the temple and
the devotees as safe as possible. By following NY state guidelines of maintaining
reduced occupancy and health professionals’ advice on enhanced safety
and cleaning protocols, we have managed to stay safely open. With everyone
working together, we were able to ensure that devotees can have darshan and
receive divine blessings in a safe and socially distanced manner.

In addition, our extraordinary volunteers take part in Shelter Seva, where hot
meals, for 3 shelters serving about 180 people, are provided on a monthly basis.
We have been humbled and encouraged by the support, dedication, and
generosity of the entire temple community.

On February 14th, 2021, the volunteer administration and coordinators structure

of the temple was rearranged to further improve how we operate. We welcome
all the new and long standing volunteers who have dedicated their lives to
serving the Mother. These changes have allowed for committed roles that focus
on the expansion of the Rajagopuram project.

We are very thankful to all of our generous donors and sponsors who have
supported the temple. We are delighted to announce that the groundbreaking
ceremony (Bhumi puja) for our Rajagopuram Project - Phase 1 is scheduled for
the 14th of April, 2021. It is only because of YOUR unrelenting support that we
have been able to achieve this milestone.

We are incredibly grateful to all our dedicated volunteers who have supported
all temple activities and worked tirelessly despite the pandemic. We pray that
Sri Rajarajeswari will bestow Her most loving blessings on the entire community
and, indeed, the whole world so that all can enjoy good health and prosperity.

In Sri Rajarajeswari’s Seva,

Temple Administration

7
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
Blossom 26, Petal 1

COVID-19
Global Pandemic
Around the second week of March, 2020, the world witnessed a
pandemic due to the global health crisis owing to the spread of a
coronavirus. COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019) of the SARS-CoV2
family of coronaviruses is highly contagious and the state and
central governments requested that all public institutions be closed
to the public to reduce the spread of COVID-19. For the first time in
the history of the temple, the premises was closed to the public. All
the nitya pujas, Saturday pujas, Pradosha pujas, festivals and
Pournami homams were performed as usual but with a few dedicated
local volunteers each time. All pujas and events were livestreamed
for devotees to witness and get Her blessings.

PAST EVENTS ... December 2020 to

March 2021

Dec Thiruvempavai
Thiruvempavai is a collection of 20 songs composed by Saint
Manickavasagar which are traditionally sung in the Tamil month of
17 - 30 Margazhi for 10 days concluding on the day of Arudra nakshatra.
The songs are offered to Lord Nataraja in the early morning hours
before sunrise and are traditionally sung while walking along the
streets through the temple town. In our temple, devotees gather to
begin the puja at 5 AM and sing the Thirupalli Ezhuchi as a morning
prayer offering to each of the deities in the sanctum. Following this,
the 20 songs of Thiruvempavai are sung while encircling the temple.
Abhishekam and Pancha Upacharam is performed after the recitation
of each song. On the final day, the abhishekam is performed in a
grand scale and Lord Nataraja and Sivakami receives an elaborate
alankaram. Utsava Nataraja is then taken in procession with Saint
Manickavasagar with his holy. This year owing to COVID-19
restrictions, the number of devotees were limited in accordance with
local governmental regulations to a maximum of 15 at any given time.
In spite of the restrictions, the festival was performed successfully.

8
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
 Sri Chakra ● March 2021

Dec Raja Matangi Homam

The annual Raja Matangi homam is performed traditionally by the children

27 as a prayer of gratitude for a successful year and for continuing success in the
upcoming year. It is typically performed on the last Sunday of the calendar
year. This year due to COVID-19 restrictions, the homam was performed
without any participation. Some of the local youth helped with the set up
for this homam and assisted Shankar aiya who performed the homam.
The festival concluded with bali and everyone received Maha Prasadam.

Jan Thai Pongal

Thai Pongal is known as a ‘harvest’ festival. It is celebrated on the beginning

14 of the Tamil month of ‘Thai,’ which typically falls on January 13th or 14th. On
this auspicious day, farmers pray to Lord Surya and Mother Nature thanking
him for a successful harvest. Prayers are traditionally offered along with the
boiling of milk, signifying Goddess Lakshmi. Once the milk boils over, rice and
jaggery is added to make Sweet Pongal. This year due to COVID-19 restrictions,
the festival was performed by only 6 volunteers but devotees were allowed to
visit the temple after the festival to get Devi’s blessings on this auspicious day.

UPCOMING EVENTS
March April *All events will occur at the Sri
Rajarajeswari Peetam, Rush,
11 Maha Sivaratri
13 Tamil New Year (Pilava)
NY, unless otherwise stated
above.

Bhumi Puja for the

14 Rajagopuram Project *Please keep an eye out for
Temple emails with updated
information on upcoming
26 Chitra Purnima events due to restrictions that
may need to be placed in light
of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Our special thanks &

IN THREE MONTHS ... gratitude to this issue’s
Devi willing, the next issue of the Sri Chakra will be up on the volunteers:
temple’s website at the beginning of June 2021.
Aiya, Adheesh Ankolekar, Vilas
This magazine cannot keep publishing without contributions! Ankolekar, Brian Campbell, Rajeswari
Articles, poems, stories and photos about any spiritual topic Chendil, Jeilan Devanesan, Veena
are welcomed.
Ganeshan, Mangala Janahan, Suhina
The next deadline for article submission is November 1, 2020. Kanapathipillai, Sriganesh Madhvanath,
Please e-mail us with your contributions or feedback about this Kamya Ramaswamy, Priyanga Seyon,
issue at srichakra@srividya.org or talk to Virroshi at the temple. Luxan Shanthakkumar, Bala Vidya Team,
Temple Administration, and the Granite
Sri Gurubhyo Namaha!
Temple Construction Committee.

9
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
Blossom 26, Petal 1 Sri Chakra ● March 2021

Steps
Towards
Our
Granite Temple
12 Master Plan
Approved!!
In a marathon meeting on
Tuesday, Dec 15th, 2020, the
Town of Rush Planning Board
reviewed our detailed plans
for the site, utilities, grading,
lighting and landscape, and
the environmental impact
assessment, and provided
11 Master Plan Presented to Town

their approval.
04 Sannidhi & Vigraham Sponsorships

10 Carving & Planning Continues

Our thanks to our structural

06 Pledges for the Main Temple

engineer Larry Heininger,

01 Alaya Nirmana Ganapati Puja

PE, PMP of Margues and

Associates, our architect
09 Carving is Underway

Ashok Mungara, and

various temple construction
02 Ideas & Suggestions

08 Contract Signed

committee members who

07 Giving Tuesday
03 Design Contract

put in many long hours to

make this possible.
05 Phase I

10 11
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
Blossom 26, Petal 1

Aiya’s Vision
Granite Temple & rajagopuram

(Part 11)

In this eleventh portion of the series, members of the Granite Temple Committee &
Temple Administration give an overview of the New Donation Software System and
the various options that are available for donations.

Temple Design
by the Granite Temple Committee & Temple Administration

The new permanent home for the Mother will be over 25,000 sq ft in area and will feature
beautiful freestanding sannidhis (shrines) for the Mother, Ganapati, Subhrahmanya and
Siva, all carved out of granite. Siva’s sannidhi will face West while the other three face East.
Rajarajeswari Devi’s sannidhi will open into an ardhamandapam with the Mahameru at the
center. A few short steps will lead into the grand granite mahamandapam (a raised, pillared
hall) featuring a variety of unique and beautifully carved granite pillars. Facing the Devi at
the other Eastern end of the mahamandapam will be her nandi-vahanam, bali peetham and
dhwajasthambam, as well as the yagashala (homa kundam).

12
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
 Sri Chakra ● March 2021

Around the mahamandapam along the North and South walls will be located smaller sannidhis
for various deities associated with the Sri Vidya and Saiva Siddhanta traditions, such as Dattatreya,
Nataraja-Sivakami, Ardhanareeshwara, Manonmani (Akhilandeshwari) Devi, Anjaneya, Bhakta
Nayanmars, Bhairava and the Navagrahas. The north wall will also feature a vasantha mandapam for
all the utsava murthis (processional deities).

In between the mahamandapam and these smaller sannidhis will be a wide space where devotees
can sit, walk around in pradakshina, gather for festivals, or take the utsava deities in procession on a
silver chariot within the temple.

In the south-east will be the pakashala, the kitchen, exclusively for the preparation of naivedyam for
the deities.

The eastern end of the temple will feature visitor services areas such as the Bookstore and Office. The
western end will feature specially outfitted rooms for puja preparation and alankaram for the use
of temple volunteers. Steps will lead down to a large basement with ample storage space for puja
materials and other temple assets, as well as common spaces such as meeting rooms and classrooms
accessible to the public.

The temple will enclosed by an outer wall and have four grand entrances, one from each of the
cardinal directions. Each entrance will be adorned with a traditional gopuram. The Eastern gopuram
will be 54’ in height and when the Eastern doors are open, the Devi will have a direct line of sight to the
open land that slopes down to the creek. The other three gopurams will be 33’ in height.

13
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
Blossom 26, Petal 1

Lalita’s Sahasra Namas (Part 2)

on the Temple’s Social Media Platforms
During the lockdown, the Temple has been posting one nama from the Lalita
Sahasranama, along with its meaning, on a daily basis. These posts are made on the
temple’s social media platforms. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Telegram to get
these updates on the daily.
This series will be a continued compilations of these namas for the Sri Chakra community.

14
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
 Sri Chakra ● March 2021

15
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
Blossom 26, Petal 1

16
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
 Sri Chakra ● March 2021

17
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
Blossom 26, Petal 1

18
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
 Sri Chakra ● March 2021

To be continued ...
19
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
Blossom 26, Petal 1

A Journey
into the
Navākṣarī Ratneśvarī
(Part 2) Mantrās
by Brian Campbell
Here is the second part of an interesting journey into the Navākṣarī Ratneśvarī
Mantrās. Please note that this may be different from our sampradaya.

Ratna Yoginī and their

World Deva Śakti Tattva
Bīja number
Gagana glūṃ Brahmā Unmanā Earth Śrīvidyā (64)
Svarga slūṃ Viṣṇu Manonmanī Water Śrīvidyutā (32)
Pavana plūṃ Rudra Samanā Fire Śrīvidyunmālā (16)
Martya mlūṃ Īśvara Vyāpinī Wind Śrīvidyutā (8)
Nāga nlūṃ Sadāśiva Avyaktā Space Śrīsaṅkanī (4)
(based on a larger chart by, and the work of, Mark Dyczkowski)

The ratnapañcaka mantrās are used to invoke the power of yoginīs who reside
in the five worlds and are believed to illuminate and empower the upāsaka with radiance,
as the yoginīs are described as rays of divine light issuing forth from the supreme parā
devatā. In the Matsyendrasaṃhitā (10.11), the ratnapañcaka bījas are used in a special
yoginī maṇḍala pūjā and are installed in the four directions of the maṇḍala, with the
fifth bīja in the center. Mālinīstava is a rare and secret tantric hymn (loaded with esoteric
bījas) to the goddess Mālinī (here equated with Parā as the supreme Devī). In verse 90
of this hymn, She is invoked in a condensed form of all five of the bījas as “gspmnlūṃ,
to the one who is worshiped with the pañcaratna.”

Upon further reflection on the ratnapañcaka, it suddenly became apparent

that there was actually a saṃpuṭita of śrīṃ and hrīṃ encasing the bījas, which are
known as our navākṣarī ratneśvarī mantrās. In terms of practice, it seems as though
knowing something about these rare mantrās when chanting them over our dīpams
may be helpful as an added visualization, laminating another layer of sacred meaning
on top of the already powerful mantrās and mudrās we all know. Questions of historical
provenance and correlations aside, I personally do not think it is without coincidence
that we use these mantrās when invoking the divine light of the dīpam in our pūjās, but
that is a topic for further consideration ... another day!

20
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
 Sri Chakra ● March 2021

(Part 1)

Sacred Rites & Rituals of Sanatana Dharma

is a 3-month weekly learning series led by
Aiya and presented by the Sri Vidya Temple
Society & Ashtanka Yoga Mandir. This series
explores a variety of topics form Sanatana
Dharma and will integrate practical
demonstrations by Senior Disciples from
the Sri Vidya temple. Each session concludes
with 15 minutes of yoga.

Short posts capturing some of the concepts

mentioned by Aiya during these sessions are
being posted on the Temple’s social media
platforms.

Here is a compilation of the posts that have

been made thus far. We thank the Social
Media team for sharing this with the Sri
Chakra.

When Venue
America: Fridays 7:30-8:45 PM EST srividya.org/youtube
Feb 12 - Apr 30, 2021

Sri Lanka/India: Saturdays 6:00-7:15 AM IST Register

Feb 13 - May 1, 2021 srividya.org/aym-lectures

Language
English

21
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
Blossom 26, Petal 1

When
America: Fridays 7:30-8:45 PM EST
Feb 12 - Apr 30, 2021

Sri Lanka/India: Saturdays 6:00-7:15 AM IST

Feb 13 - May 1, 2021

Language
English

Venue
srividya.org/youtube

Register
srividya.org/aym-lectures

22
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
 Sri Chakra ● March 2021

23
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
Blossom 26, Petal 1

Essence of Shivapuranam (Part 2)

by Aiya

I
n Kailash, Lord Shiva, who has been
During the COVID-19 described in various ways due to his divine
lockdown, Aiya has activities, is also a strategic plan. He wanted
been conducting something accomplished. So, on some minor
several weekly pretext, he curses his number one devotee,
sessions explaining for all of time. This devotee is the most closest
the ‘Essence of to Shiva. That happens to be Nandi, the bull on
Shivapuranam.’ which he is mounted. He tells him, “You have
Here is the second made a grave omission. You have to go down
installment of a to Earth, be born there and perform penance
transcription of these
before you come back to Kailash.” It is this
sessions.
essence of Nandi that was born in Vaadhavoor.

24
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
 Sri Chakra ● March 2021

Manickavasagar is an avatar, or
incarnation, of Nandi, who cannot bare to be
separated even for a second from his Lord.
So, now you can understand the pining that
Manickavasagar experienced from the time he
was a child – he was pining for his Lord. Not
knowing who he really is, because he is now a
human being, all the shortcomings that apply
to human beings are now experienced by
him. On his way to Nagappattinam,
which is a coastal city where horses Some additional information:
were being auctioned and sold, he Kurundha Maram is known as the Sthala Maram (sacred tree
happened to pass through a town/ of the Temple) of the Thiruperunthurai Aavudaiyar Temple,
Thiruthandalaicheri Neelneri Temple and Thirupunalvaayil Temple.
village with a big Shiva temple. This
place is called Thiruperunthurai In Manickavasagar’s Nirutthane Nimale, நிருத்தனே நிமலா, he
(Thiru-Perum-Thurai). Even to this makes reference to the Kurundha Maram.
day, scholars seem to be arguing In fact, reference to the Kurundha Maram has been made in several
which temple this was. In this other Thirumurais. Some of the popular ones sung today are:
temple called Thiruperunthurai, • Eerkkum Punal Soodi, ஈர்க்கும் புேல்சூடி
Lord Shiva, in resplendent orange • Arunthiral Avunargal, அருந்திறல் அவுணர்்கள்
• Therindha Adiyaar, த்தரிந்த அடியார்
clothes glowing, sits under a tree • Nedum Ayanodu Thirumalum, னநடும் அயனோடு ்திருமாலும்
called Kurundha Maram, குருந்த • Kurundhin Keezh, குருந்தின் ்கீ ழ்
மரம். • Thollaivaan Soozh Vinaigal, த்தால்்லவான் சூழ் வி்ே்கள்

Like a magnet attracting iron, Manickavasagar is attracted towards this

resplendent being, who is surrounded by devotees equally glowing. They were chanting
various stotras like Rudram, Sahasranamas, Shiva Mahimna Stotram, etc. He is transfixed –
he is not able to move. He stands there and is looking at this. The resplendent being looks
back at him with complete compassion.

Vaadhavoorar falls at his feet and tells him, please

instruct me in the ways I can use to reach my Lord. The
Puranam, the classic, that deals with Vaadhavoorar’s story
tells you that he was looking exactly like Dakshinamurthi
under a banyan tree. Unknown to Vaadhavoorar, it was
indeed Lord Dakshinamurthi who also initiated him.

In order to initiate worship, you have to have a formal

Guru. The Guru can initiate you by merely looking at you –
this is called Nayana Dheeksha. The second method is for
the Guru to lay his hands on top of your head and impart
the mantra to you – this is called Sparsha Dheeksha. The
last method is for the Guru to place his feet on your head
and initiate you – this is called Pada Dheeksha or Thiruvadi

25
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
Blossom 26, Petal 1

Dheeksha. Because of the time frame that has passed, there are various versions of how
Vaadhavoorar was initiated.

The teacher does not mention anything about the horses, the King or the
mission that was entrusted to Vaadhavoorar. He instead tells him to spend whatever
that he has in the service of devotees of Lord Shiva and places of worship, where Shiva
has resided in temples. So Vaadhavoorar continues to spend the money with no thought
or recollection of why he had come, what his mission was, etc. He was renovating old
temples, feeding the Brahmins, making sure that the Vedapadashaalas were operating
well, ensuring that the temple musicians and
dancers were properly looked taken care of, and
so on. Without a second thought, he lavishly
spent the money that was entrusted to him by
the King to buy horses.

In modern terms, this would be

described as ‘Misappropriation of Funds’ or
‘Embezzlement’.

The King waits patiently as time is passing yet Manickavasagar has not shown
up anywhere nor has he sent any information about the horses. So the King sends some
of his soldiers to look for him. They find Manickavasagar completely immersed in the
service of Shiva and in the service of his Guru. They come back to the kingdom and tell
the King that Manickavasagar is doing some service at a Shiva temple. The King sends his
soldiers back to ask Manickavasagar when his horses would come to the kingdom. Having
been totally immersed in the service of Shiva and the service of his Guru, Manickavasagar
becomes shocked when he is brought back to reality.

He goes inside the temple, stands in front

of the Shivalingam and asks, “What will I do? What will
I tell the King?” From the sanctum, he hears a voice
telling him to let the king know that in the month of
Aavani, which is the time period from the 15th of August
to the 15th of September, on the constellation of Mula
nakshatra (in the sign of Sagittarius), the horses will
come. Manickavasagar relays this information to the
soldiers who then relay this information back to the
King.

More time passes and Vaadhavoorar

continues to be under the spell where he is immersed
in taking care of Shiva temples and completing all the services he was involved with.

A couple weeks before the Mula nakshatra falls, the King sent his soldiers out

26
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
 Sri Chakra ● March 2021

to see if there was any sign of any horses coming. They searched around and reported to
him that there was nothing like that, so Manickavasagar was arrested. He was detained and
brought back to the kingdom. He had nothing to tell the King except repeat the same story
that the horses will arrive on this day. The King gets angry as he believed Manickavasagar
did something with the money and the gold he had been given.

On the day before Aavani Mulam, the soldiers

come and say that there are tonnes of dust clouds
approaching the city. The King sees that all the cayotes,
jackals and foxes that have been roaming around the
countryside have converted into horses and all the
Ghanas have now become horsemen and are mounted
on these horses, due to Shiva’s command. He sees that
each of them looks so graceful and they are like Arabian
Stallions. The lead horseman, who is clearly Lord Shiva
himself, is mounted on a Stallion as well. The King is
overjoyed. The lead horseman puts the horses in their places and hands their reins to the
King – this is called Kayiru Mattrudhal, ்கயிரு மாற்று்தல் - exchanging of the rope that
ties the horse. This signifies that the ownership of the horses has changed.

All the horses are billeted and they are taken to the King’s newly built stables to
house them. Manickavasagar is also
honoured in public and is allowed to
go back to his quarters. He is however
still in continuous contemplation.

That night, the horses

turned back into cayotes, jackals and
foxes and killed all the horses that
were left behind from the old stock.
They run through the town howling.
In South India, the howling of these
animals is considered to be an ill omen. They think it is highly inauspicious. They come back
to the King and tell him what has happened.

The King was furious. He catches ahold of Manickavasagar and tells his servants
to take this fellow and make him suffer until he gives the money back. He was made to
kneel down on the hot sands of the Vaigai River that encircles Madurai and was asked to
hold two heavy rocks in both hands without dropping them and look up at the blazing Sun.
He was not allowed to look down.

Interested in reading more about Saint Manickavasagar? Stay

tuned for the next issue of the Sri Chakra for a continuation of this
explanation by Aiya.
27
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
Blossom 26, Petal 1

Skanda
Sashti
Kavacham
a composition of the limitless love and
grace (Part 1)

Sri Bala Devarayar was suffering with unbearable pain and was weakened by a
disease. He concluded he needed to rid himself of this pain by taking his own life and, as his last
act, paid pilgrimage to Lord Subrahmanya at Thirucchendur - a seaside temple at the very south
of Tamil Nadu, India. While on his trip, Lord Subrahmanya appeared to him and directed him to
write a “pathigam”, a devotional group of verses. Lord Subrahmanya promised that not only will
he be cured of his illness, but this pathigam would hold the power to cure other peoples’ diseas-
es, provide protection, and provide all needs to any devotee who chants it with bhakti. Thus, the
Skanda Sashti Kavacham was born! The more you read or chant this simple text, you will find
yourself called to dwell in the grace of the Lord.

As the word Kavacham (meaning armour) implies, not only does this pathikum
act as an armour, similar to Matruka Nyasam, but it also elevates the devotee spiritually. This is
a script with a wide spectrum of The Divine’s grace and it simultaneously displays, in syntactic
stanzas, the multiple benefits it provides to the bhakta.

This piece was originally composed in Tamil language, the oldest language that
exists on Earth, and the neat fact about this is, it is composed using very simple words that can
be understood by any.

The Tamil intonations, endured with different permutations and combinations,

threads narratives in a simple grounded way, which ignite the respective energies within those
who chant it to meet specific goals.

As mentioned, the benefits are numerous. In addition to providing an impenetrable

armour, it also eliminates all illnesses, and provides good health, wealth and spiritual growth. The
Kavacham destroys all internal and external enemies and paves the road to rid of the samsara,
illusion and emotional bonds.

28
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
 Sri Chakra ● March 2021

Skanda Sashti Kavacham consists of 244 lines in total. In the text below we will
explore the markers and the essence of Skanda Sashti Kavacham.

Lines 1 - 4:
து்திபனபார்க்கு வல்வி்ேனபாம் துன்பம்னபாம்
தநஞ்ில் ப்திபனபார்க்குச் த்ல்வம் பலிததுக் ்க்திதன்தாங்கும்
நிஷ்டையும் ்்ககூடும் நிமலரருள்
்கந்தர் ்ஷடி ்கவ்ம் ்த்ே.

Tudipōrkku Valvinaipōm Tunbampōm

Neñjil Padippōrkku Selvam Palittuk Gatittōṅgum
Niṣṭaiyum Kaikūḍum Nimalararuḷ
Kandar Saṣti Kavacam Tanai.

The first 4 lines are referred to as Kural Venba. Here, the objective and benefits are
outlined. It does not promise to eliminate all karmic negative effects and miseries. It
does, however, promise to provide richness in spiritual growth, fulfillment in life and
material needs.

Lines 5 - 6:
அமரர் இடைர்்ததீர அமரம் புரிந்த
குமரன் அடி தநஞன் குறி.

Amarar Iḍartīra Amaram Purinda

Kumaran Aḍi Neñjē Kuṟi.

These lines are referred to as Kaappu. These lines describe how the Lord ended the
woes of the Devas and mention that we should focus on the Lord Subrahmanya’s feet
while chanting.

Curious to learn more about the beautiful Skanda Sashti

Kavacham? The next issue of the Sri Chakra will be out early June.
Keep an eye out for this to continue reading.

29
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
Blossom 26, Petal 1

30
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
 Sri Chakra ● March 2021

Sri Ramakrishna
Paramahamsa (Part 2)
by Luxan Shanthakkumar
adadhar, who was now seventeen years

G old, was widely known to be disinterested

in formal education. He would constantly
tell his brother, Ramkumar, who pleaded with
him to take up school and work life, “Brother,
what shall I do with a mere breadwinning
education? I would rather acquire that wisdom
which will illumine my heart and get which one
is ever satisfied for.” Ramkumar, however, was
unsatisfied with his answer and decided that
he would take Gadadhar to Calcutta where he
could put the young one to work and possibly
supervise his education. Reluctantly and with
a heavy heart, Gadadhar agreed. Full of grief,
he wished his friends and family farewell and
began his fateful journey towards Dakshineswar,
in Calcutta. Ramkumar taught astrology, Hindu
law and was a priest. The income he made was
One of the most prominent small but because they had an increasing need
religious figures of India to sustain their lifestyles, he decided to share
during the 19th centry was Sri the priestly duties with Gadadhar, who was also
Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. receiving some education through books his
He was a master of the mystic brother had given him.
arts whose unbearable longing
The families in Calcutta started noticing
for the Diving Mother propelled a striking contrast in Gadadhar’s behaviour to
him to heights that many could that of his predecessors. Instead of rushing
only dream of. and haphazardly doing the puja, Gadadhar
worshipped with great devotion and diligence,
sometimes even singing hymns long into the
Here is the second segment of Sri evening, ignorant of the hours that passed.
Ramakrishna Paramahamsa’s From this, we can see that Gadadhar was really
life history. drawn by the deep yearning for

31
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
Blossom 26, Petal 1

In Calcutta, Gadadhar started noticing how people

carried out their everyday lives - we must remember that
he came from a very remote village and now was in a big,
established city. What he initially perceived were people
engrossed in Samsara. Seeing this, Gadadhar realized
the purpose of humanity was to rise above the senses;
however, here in Calcutta, people
were running after transitory
pleasures of the world and dying for
name and fame. He began to realize more and more that he was born for
a purpose different from those around him. Many questions arose in the
young Gadadhar life at that time, “ shall I obtain piety, devotion and divine
fervor by pursuing this education?”, “will I be able to realize god and escape
from universal ignorance through this education?” No matter how many
questions he asked himself, the ultimate answer was “no”. He tried to read
the books given to him by his brother but no matter the amount or material
of these educational books he read it wasn’t able to satisfy the longing for
divine knowledge that he had.

In Juan Bazaar, there lived a rich widow by the

name of Rani Rasamani who, after her husband, Rai Raj
Chandra Das, had passed, inherited his immense wealth. She
worked diligently in administering the affairs of the estate and
her late husband’s businesses. Rani cared little for the wealth
she acquired and instead started various charities to help those
who were less fortunate. Even though Rani had all the wealth
one could dream of, her desire to make a pilgrimage to Banaras
(also known as Varanasi) was unparalleled, but the burden of
administration was too heavy and the time was never opportune.
One late evening her son-in-law, Mathura Mohan, extended his
willingness to shoulder the burden of her tasks where she had
to ever make such a pilgrimage.

Rani began her preparations. She began her journey towards Banaras along with a fleet of
a hundred boats. It was evening time and she decided to rest on the banks of the Ganges beside
the village of Dakshineswar. That night, Rani had
a dream in which the goddess appeared to her,
ordered her to abandon the journey and told her
to build and dedicate a temple to her on the banks
of the Ganges. If this were done, She promised to
fully manifest Herself there. Quickly and efficiently
Rani purchased 20 acres of land at Dakshineswar
and the construction began immediately. Upon
completion of construction, Rani installed an image
of the goddess into the temple and continued to
worship Her. She practiced immense austerities
to enrich the energies in the temple with japam

32
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
 Sri Chakra ● March 2021

and puja. She would worship this image every

night, and then later, place the image back
in a small wooden box. However, one night
the goddess appeared to her and asked her
to move up the consecration day as She could
no longer endure the box She was in. Finally
on May 31st, 1855, a full moon day with great
pomp and celebration, the Divine Mother in
the form of Bhavatarini, was invoked to be
permanently present in the image there.

We know that Ramakrishna (Gadadhar) had a deep yearning for divine knowledge. We
learned, in the first part of this series, that Gadadhar was following saints and begging them
for stories. We already came to know, in this portion of the series, that no worldly knowledge
(from the books his brother had bought him) could satisfy him either. His constant awareness
and desire to move away from everyday life is what pushes him towards this longing for divine
knowledge.

They say when we take a step towards God, They in turn takes a thousand towards us.
Was this the Goddess’ response to Gadadhars longing? Does a Mother not know what is best for
Her child? She now awaits Her dear son’s arrival, however, will he hear Her call?

Curious to know the answers to these? Watch for the next issue of the Sri Chakra
to learn more.

33
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
Blossom 26, Petal 1

34
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
 Sri Chakra ● March 2021

Black
Sesame
Rice by Rajeswari Chendil

What is Black Sesame Rice? Always remember not to smell

Rice that is mixed with ground black sesame and ghee or taste food when it is being made

For which deities is Black Sesame Rice usually offered to? as Naivedyam. In addition, always
Sanishwara - Offering ellu sa̅ dam is especially think pure thoughts and make the
beneficial in appeasing the effects of śani̅ṣwara̅ gṛha Naivedyam whole-heartedly. A good
dośa way to do this is to chant mantras or
When can you offer Black Sesame Rice? shlokas that you may know or the
Puja and Homam nama of your ishta devata.

What are some festivals you can offer Black Sesame Rice
We thank Rajeswari Chendil and
for?
Saturdays, Puratasi Sani (5 Saturdays of the Puratasi the Thulasi Kitchen Coordinators
month - this month is between mid-September to mid- for providing this recipe to the Sri
October) Chakra.

Ingredients:
Prep Time
5 minutes 1 cup Basmati Rice
2 tbsp Sesame Oil
Cook Time 3 Red Chilies
2 tbsp Black Sesame Seeds
10-15 minutes 1 tbsp Split Urad Dhal
1 tbsp Melted Ghee
Serves ½ tsp Salt
4-5 Curry Leaves
4 people

35
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
Blossom 26, Petal 1

Instructions:

1. Cook 1 cup of raw basmati rice in 2 cups of water. Set

it aside to cool.

2. In a pan heat the sesame oil and roast the black

sesame seeds. Once the seeds begin spluttering, remove
it from the pan and set it aside.

3. In the same pan add Urad Dhal, Red Chilies

and Curry Leaves and roast them in the
sesame oil until the Urad Dhal turns golden
brown. Set it aside to cool.

4. Grind the Urad Dhal, Chilies and Curry Leaves

along with the roasted Black Sesame into fine
powder.

5. Mix the powder into the cooked rice by adding

ghee and salt.

amṛtam mahā naivēdyam nivēdayāmi!

36
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
 Sri Chakra ● March 2021

37
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
Blossom 26, Petal 1

Story Time with Kamya Aunty

by Kamya Ramaswamy

Lakshmi vs.
A Child Searching For Sarasvati
His Mother’s Divine Love
A Challenge (Part 1)

T
his humorous story starts with the goddesses
Mahalakshmi and Mahasarasvati arguing over
which of them is more important to humanity. Like
most mythological tales, it probably didn’t happen.
Also like most myths in Hinduism, or the gods of any
other pantheon, the story exists to illustrate a much
larger idea or to highlight a more important question. To
think that Lakshmi and Sarasvati, both divine aspects of
the universal source of power (Shakti), were squabbling
over who’s better doesn’t make a lot of sense. Yet, the
story will undoubtedly inspire many a lively discussion.

A Simple Farmer
t begins when Lakshmi and Sarasvati were floating

Iaround on a cloud, flying invisibly through the earth’s

atmosphere and looking at all the people below. Suddenly, Lakshmi had a thought
upon glancing at a young farmer. She playfully looked over at Sarasvati.

“Do you think your blessings

benefit humanity more than my
blessings?” she asked her friend.
Sarasvati did not want to play this
game but being the mother of all
wisdom, she knew Lakshmi would
not learn from any explanation
she could give. It would require
an experience.

38
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
 Sri Chakra ● March 2021

“I think both of our blessings are needed for humans to prosper,” Sarasvati tactfully replied.

“Nonsense,” said Lakshmi. “People send their children to school so they can grow
up and have a job that earns them lots of money. Why, rich families sometimes don’t
even send their kids to school but instead teach them about the family business instead
of wasting time learning.” Sarasvati knew Lakshmi was goading her and knew where this
was going, but didn’t say anything.

“Why don’t we undertake a little challenge?” Lakshmi asked, just as Sarasvati

predicted. “See that farmer down there? Let’s see from whom he benefits more—me
or you. I’ll go first.” And without even waiting to see whether Sarasvati was agreeable,
she blessed the fields that the farmer was tilling at that very moment. “There,” she said.
“Tomorrow, he will find his fortune completely changed.”

Golden Fields of Grain

I
t takes months for a harvest to start to peek
out of the ground, let alone show up as full-
grown crops. So the farmer was mystified
when he looked out his window the next
morning, ready to finish tilling the fields that
day, only to see foot-tall sprouts already
there. He went outside and looked closer
at what was growing. To his absolute shock,
the chaff on the wheat he had planted was
not only already visible, it was made of gold!

What?! Gold?!?!?
Really?!?

Wonder what happened after?

Stay tuned for the next Sri Chakra to learn what happened next.

39
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
Blossom 26, Petal 1

Story Time:
Gaṇ apati and
Pārvatī's Wounds
Bala Vidya is now on YouTube!! Here is an infographic summarizing the, "Ganapati and
and Parvati's Wounds" video. The link to the video is below. Try following along with this
infographic while watching the video.
https://youtu.be/5LM4X074i9A

All beings are images of divinity.

Treat them the way
YOU
want to be treated.

Moral:
This story gives a very
important lesson that you
should treat others the
way you want to be
treated, this also includes
animals!

Watch video here: https://youtu.be/5LM4X074i9A

40
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
 Sri Chakra ● March 2021

AKSHARAMALA #7
Graphic Artist

Semivowels and Sibilants

Bala Vidya is now on YouTube!! Here is an infographic summarizing the, "Sanskrit Aksharamala -
Semivowels and Sibilants" video. The link to the video is below. Try following along with
infographic while watching the video.
https://youtu.be/4xUYXSYulrM

Semivowels
and
Sibilants

Semivowels and Sibilants are sounds that

you say with a burst of air.
Watch video here: https://youtu.be/4xUYXSYulrM
41
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
Blossom 26, Petal 1

y yantra
a deity in a form of
a shape
sounds like yes

r ratna gem
sounds like rag

l laya rhythm

sounds like love

Watch video here: https://youtu.be/4xUYXSYulrM

42
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
 Sri Chakra ● March 2021

v vastra clothing

sounds like vine

aṅkha conch
sounds like s e

vars
sounds like ars

little girl

Watch video here: https://youtu.be/4xUYXSYulrM

43
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
Blossom 26, Petal 1

s sahasra thousand
sounds like sun

ha sa swan

sounds like o e

Watch video here: https://youtu.be/4xUYXSYulrM

44
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
 Sri Chakra ● March 2021

ART CLASS
how to draw a paḍi kōlam
Bala Vidya is now on YouTube!! Here is an infographic summarizing the, "Kolam: Padi Kolam"
video. The link to the video is below. Try following along with this infographic while watching the
video.
https://youtu.be/Ej8jmdGNppk

1 2

The first step is to draw 4 Next, leave a small gap and draw 4
horizontal lines towards the more lines underneath towards the
top of your surface. bottom of your surface just like
As you are drawing the 4 before.
lines, make sure to include Again, make sure the lines are
slight spaces between them parallel and that there are slight
and make sure the lines are gaps between them.
parallel.

3 4

Then, leave a gap and draw

Once that is done, draw 4
another 4 lines going down.
more lines going down.
This connects the lines that you
drew before to create a square.

Watch video here: https://youtu.be/Ej8jmdGNppk 45

Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
Blossom 26, Petal 1

T S:
As you draw the vertical lines, check to see that you are starting from
the top most line and connecting all the way to the bottom most line.
And as before, make sure to include gaps between your lines
As you draw the vertical lines, check to see that you are starting from
the top most line and connecting all the way to the bottom most line.
And as before, make sure to include gaps between your lines

After we do that, the final step is And now our padi k lam is
to draw 4 arches on each side of complete The final step is
the square. to color it however you
t is always important to make would like.
sure that all of our lines are
connected since we are
making a padi k lam,

Watch video here: https://youtu.be/Ej8jmdGNppk

46
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
 Sri Chakra ● March 2021

The World Around US

How do YOU connect?
Bala Vidya is now on YouTube!! Here is an infographic summarizing, "The World Around Us! How Do YOU Connect?"
video. The link to the video is below. Try following along with this infographic while watching the video.
https://youtu.be/P3fVg1p-ohU

You can connect to the world in many different ways such as:

Practicing nursing and Doing seva such as helping Being a mother and cooking
using the experience with meal prep, assembling and helping her kids.
from nursing to teach packages,, and distributing
others. those boxes of food to those in
need.

Being a musician, such Realizing that sickness By doing art and pouring
as a violinist, and affects everyone and that your passions and
paying attention to how connection, that ability to emotions into your artwork.
you are delievering the help people.
piece.; the emotion, the
passion.

Watch video here: https://youtu.be/P3fVg1p-ohU

47
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
Blossom 26, Petal 1

PŪJĀ Class #3
items on pūjā tray
Bala Vidya is now on YouTube!! Here is an infographic summarizing the,"Items on the Puja
Tray" video. The link to the video is below. Try following along with this infographic while 
watching the video.
https://youtu.be/a5hZXT88B5s

CANDANAM
candanam is a fragrant paste made from grinding sandalwood
Offering candanam and kuṁkumam to your guests is a sign of respect
in our culture.
When we invite a deity to our puja, we show them respect by offering
them candanam and kuṁkumam.

KUṀKUMAM
It represents the shakti or female aspect.
Kuṁkumam is made from turmeric by adding slaked lime and
lime juice.

Why do we wear chandanam and

kuṁkumam on our foreheads?
There are 6 energy centres that are located in the center of
our bodies called cakras
The space between our eyebrows is where one of the cakras
are located, called the ājñā cakra (or third eye cakra)
This cakra point is where many of our body’s nerves meet.
Candanam has cooling properties and when applying it on
this area, it cools down your entire body and calms your
mind. After we apply Candanam to our ājñā cakra, we
apply kuṁkumam on top of it. We wear kuṁkumam on this
point because it helps awaken the ājñā cakra which makes
us more aware of ourselves and our surroundings.

Watch video here: https://youtu.be/a5hZXT88B5s

48
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
 Sri Chakra ● March 2021

PŪJĀ Class #3
items on pūjā tray
Bala Vidya is now on YouTube!! Here is an infographic summarizing the,"Items on the Puja
Tray" video. The link to the video is below. Try following along with this infographic while 
watching the video.
https://youtu.be/a5hZXT88B5s

CANDANAM
candanam is a fragrant paste made from grinding sandalwood
Offering candanam and kuṁkumam to your guests is a sign of respect
in our culture.
When we invite a deity to our puja, we show them respect by offering
them candanam and kuṁkumam.

KUṀKUMAM
It represents the shakti or female aspect.
Kuṁkumam is made from turmeric by adding slaked lime and
lime juice.

Why do we wear chandanam and

kuṁkumam on our foreheads?
There are 6 energy centres that are located in the center of
our bodies called cakras
The space between our eyebrows is where one of the cakras
are located, called the ājñā cakra (or third eye cakra)
This cakra point is where many of our body’s nerves meet.
Candanam has cooling properties and when applying it on
this area, it cools down your entire body and calms your
mind. After we apply Candanam to our ājñā cakra, we
apply kuṁkumam on top of it. We wear kuṁkumam on this
point because it helps awaken the ājñā cakra which makes
us more aware of ourselves and our surroundings.

Watch video here: https://youtu.be/a5hZXT88B5s

49
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
Blossom 26, Petal 1

ART CLASS
charam
Bala Vidya is now on YouTube!! Here is an infographic summarizing the, "Charam: What is a
Charam?" video. The link to the video is below. Try following along with this infographic
while watching the video.
https://youtu.be/lUTX1cGMHok

charam

charam (Tamil) = mālā (Sanskrit)

WHAT IS A CHARAM?
Charam or mālā are often used as an offering to a deity, and can be
considered as an act of devotion towards that deity
They are usually made out of flowers and string
A variety of flowers, such as a lotus, jasmine flowers, carnations, roses
and many more can be used
Charams can also be made out of tissue paper

Watch video here: https://youtu.be/lUTX1cGMHok

50
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
 Sri Chakra ● March 2021

FOCUS IS KEY:
While making charams, it is always important to have full focus and as much pure thought as
possible. To help with this, a shloka from the Bagavad Gita can be chanted.

patram pushpam phalam toyam yo me

bhaktyā prayachchhatitadaham
bhaktyupahritam a hnāmi
prayatātmanah

The general meaning of this sloka is: One of the many offerings one can give to a deity are flowers.
In this case, offering a garland is like an act of devotion towards the deity.

HOW TO MAKE CHARAMS:

Steps:
You will need: 1. We will be using three fingers
scissors from one hand to grip the
yarn or string tissue to the string
cut the yarn or 2. With your other hand, make a
string to how firm loop around the middle
long you want the of the paper
charam to be 3. Then, while keeping a firm grip
tissue paper on the tissue in one hand -
note: can be any use your other hand to make
paper that you can a loop around your pointer
scrunch up and finger and extend it.
twist 4. Use your pointer finger on
cut the tissue paper your other hand to grab the
or paper in bigger loop and bring it over the
pieces to make the middle of the tissue!
charam look fuller 5. Shift your thumb over the
string and pull

Watch video here: https://youtu.be/lUTX1cGMHok

51
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org
Blossom 26, Petal 1

Sri Gurubhyo Namaha

52
Sri Chakra • srichakra@srividya.org