ESSENCE OF SKANDA (KARTIKA) PURANA- CONTENTS

Mangalaacharana Devi Satis self-immolation and Daksha Yagna destroyed Significance of Siva Puja and similarity of Trimurtis Danavas defeat Devas, churning of Ocean emergence of Amrit Devas regain Swarga, Indra commits/ dissolves Brahmahatya and reinstated Vritrasura vs. Indra and Sage Dadhichis illustrious sacrifice Pradosha Vrata-Procedure of worship to Lord Siva and its Udyapana Kartikeya exterminates Tarakasura Skandas remorse and Prayaschitta ( Atonement) Ashtotthara Naamavali of Kartikeya and Phaka Shruti Significance of Daan (Charity) - Its Profile and Fruits Narada seeks replies to a questionnaire and bestows Brahmas charity to Kalaap King Indradyumna and his Satsang Group The famed Shata Rudreeyam Skandas Vijaya Sthambh (Tower of Victory) and Siddha Saptaka Mahakaal blesses Kumari, Kalabhiti and Karandhama-Supremacy of Trimurtis Procedure of Siva Puja Narada sets up the Idols of Vasudeva and Bhattaditya (Surya Deva) Why had Mahi Sagara Sangama Tirtha become a Gupta Kshetra? Some Tirthas and Kshetras of repute Arunachala Mahatmya Venkatachala Mahatmya Eight-folded approach to Venkateswara Purushotthama Kshetra (Utkala Khanda) Mahatmya Badari Kshetra Mahatmya Significance of the month of Kartika Margasirsha Mahatmya Visakha Months Significance Ayodhya Mahatmya and the Import of Tirthas around Setu Tirtha (Rameswara Kshetra) Dharmaranya Mahatmya-Sadachari Brahmanas, Sandhya, Dos & Donts Kamadhenu creates Vaishyas to safeguard and assist Brahmanas Chaturmasya Mahatmya and Shodasopacharas (Sixteen Services) Siva Mantra, Siva Ratri, Siva Pradosha Vrata and Siva Kavacha Kashi Mahatmya-Pride of Vidhyachala suppressed by Sage Agasthya Manasa Tirtha Description of Celestial Worlds Origin and Mahatmya of Kasi

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Avanti Kshetra Mahatmya River Narmadas Origin, significant events ascribed to her Mahatmya Viswamitra sends mortal Trishanku to Swarga Origin of Nagara, Shankha Tirtha, Achaleswara / Siddheswara Lingas Most significant Siva Kshetras as identified by Maha Deva Origin of Kedara Kshetra and its importance Birth of Viswamitra, cause of his rivalry with Vasishtha and curse to Saraswati Prabhasa Kshetra Mahatmya Dwaraka Mahatmya Annexure on Vishnu Sahasranama

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ESSENCE OF SKANDA (KARTIKA) PURANA MANGALAACHARANA Om Narayanam Namaskruthya Naramchaiva Narotthamam Devim Sarasvathichaiva Tato Jagamudeerayet Yasyajna Jagat Srishta Virinchih Paalako Harih / Samhartha Kaala Rudrakhyo Namastasmai Pinaakiney (Our Salutations to you Pinaakini! You have instructed Lord Brahma to create and Lord Hari to administer and you have assumed the task of Destruction as Kaala Rudra.) Skanda (Kartika) Purana is the largest of all the major Eighteen Puranas, divided into Seven Khandas or Branches viz. Maheswara Khanda, Vishnu Khanda, Brahma Khanda, Kasi Khanda, Avanthya Khanda, Nagara Khanda and Prabhasa Khanda. Maheswara Khanda is subdivided into three Upa Khandas as Kedara, Kaumarika and Arunachala. Vishnu Khanda has nine Upa Khandas, viz. Venkatachala Mahatmya, Purushottama Kshetra Mahatmya, Badarikashrama Mahatmya, Kartika Masa Mahatmya, Margasira Masa Mahatmya, Vishakha Mahatmya and Ayodhya Mahatmya. Brahma Khanda has three Upa Khandas viz. Sethu Mahatmya, Dharmaranya and Uttara / Brahmottara. Kasi Khanda has two parts viz. Purvardha and Uttarardha. Avanthya Khanda has three Upa Khandas viz. Avanti Kshetra Mahatmya, Chaturasiti Linga Mahatmya and Reva Upa Khanda. Nagara Khanda has Tirtha Mahatmya. Finally, Prabhasa Khanda has Prabhasa Kshetra Mahatmya and Dwaraka Kshetra Mahatmya. The division of the Skanda (Kartika) Purana into the Seven Khandas is to provide road-map assistance to the readers. At the successful completion of Yagna organised by Sage Suta at Naimisharanya which was attended by several Munis, Sage Lomesh addressed the congregation about the various incidents related to Maheswara, Vishnu and Brahma as well as the significance of Maha Kshetras like Kasi, Avanthya and Prabhasa and the Preachings so narrated have been immortalised as Skanda (Kartika ) Purana. Devi Satis self-immolation and Daksha Yagna destroyed Tey Dhanyasthye Mahatmano ye Bhajanti Sada Sivam, Bina Sadaa Sivam yo hi Samsaaram tharthu micchhati, Samoodho Maha Papaha Siva dveshi Na samsayaha, bhakshitamhi garam ena Daksha Yagno vinaashithah, kaalasya dahanam eva krutam Raajyam pramochanam.( Those who perform Bhajan to Sada Siva are worthy of commendation; who could possibly describe such Magnificent Bhagavan who devoured poisonous flames to save the Universe, destroyed Daksha Yagna, burnt off Kaala and saved King Sweta from impossible hardships)! Daksha Prajapatis daughter Devi Sati, married to Maha Deva, felt insulted that neither she nor her husband was invited to a Maha Yagna conducted by her father. She attended the Yagna uninvited, despite Sivas disagreement. Reluctantly Siva let her go but she was accompanied by Siva Ganas as a security. Not only Daksha ignored Satis presence, but he made unwarranted and offensive comments against Siva. He said that her husband was inauspicious as he was always surrounded by ghosts, spirits and mean powers and that was why he did not invite him to the Yagna and denied him of the share of the proceeds of the Sacrifice. Sati Devi felt infuriated at her fathers unholy remarks and jumped into the 3

Sacrificial Fire and was charred to death, even before any one in the audience realised, especially the Sivaganas. As Narada conveyed the sad news, Lord Siva became furious and created Veerabhadhra with the instruction of devastating Daksha Yagna, uprooting the beard of Bhrigu who was the chief preceptor of the Yagna and killing Daksha Prajapati. As there was all round violence, bloodshed and obliteration, Lord Brahma prayed to the fuming Lord Siva by Sashtanga Vandana or prostration. Brahmas prayer stated: Namo Rudraya Shantaaya Brahmaney Paramaatmaney, Twam hi Viswasrujaam strashtadhata twam Prapitaamahah/ Namo Rudraaya Mahathey Neela Kanthaya Vedhasey, Vishvaya Vishva beejaaya jagadaananda hethavey/ Omkaarastvam Vashatkaraya Sarvarambha pravarthakah, Yagnosi Yagna karmosih Yagnanaamcha pravarthakah/ Sarvesham Yagna karthranaam thvameva pratipaalakah, Yagnoshi Yagnakarmosi Yagnaanaam pravarthakah/ Sarvesham Yagnakartraanaam thvameva Pratipaalakah Saranayosi Maha Deva Sarvesham Praanino Prabho Raksha Raksha Maha Deva Putrashokena peeditham. ( My Greetings to You Lord Rudra, You are the embodiment of Peace, Parabrahma, Paramatma; You are the Creator of Prajapathies who create and thus You are the father of fathers; You are the Preserver of the Universe; You are the Supreme, the Blue Throated, Vedhasey, the Basic Seed, the Cause of Happiness; the Yagna, the Yagna Karma, the Super Organiser of Yagnas, the Omkar, the Vashatkar, I take refuge in You, kindly save us, be merciful and care for us the progeny of Yours). In reply, Lord Siva affirmed that whatever had happened was squarely the evil doing of Daksha himself (Sweeyena karmana Daksho hatho Brahmannasamsayaha). Brahma made a sincere request to forgive Daksha and the ever-merciful Siva planted the goat-head by killing the Sacrificial Goat. The revived Daksha was ashamed and prayed to Siva for forgiveness and Siva replied as follows: Chaturvidha bhajanthey man Janaah sukruthinah Sadaah, Aartho jignaasuraarthaarthi Jnaanischadwija Sattamaa /Thasmanmey Jnaaninah Sarve Priyah Syunarthra samaayasah, Bina Jnanena mam praapthu yathanthey they hi Balishah / kevalam karmanaa twam hi samsaararthumichhasi, Na vedaischa na daanaischan yagnaistapasakwachit/ na shaknuvanthimaam praaptum moodhaah karshavasaanarah, Tasmatjnaana parobhutva kuru karma samaahithah/ Sukha Duhkha Samaa bhutva Sukhibhava nirantaram/ (Human beings pray to me for four end-uses, viz. to escape from the sorrow of wordly entanglements, to enquire about the purpose of existence, to fulfill desires and to genuinely seek me. Among these the best approach is indeed of a Gyani; others are all Agnyanis or ignoramus only. Yagnas and such other Karmas without knowledge are imperfect ways of realising Paramatma; ignorant persons try to reach the Supreme Power Siva by reciting Vedas, perform charities or execute Yagnas and Tapasyas; these too are not the ideal means. The best way is to utilise Gyan and perform karmawith undiluted concentration and treat both worldly happiness and sorrows with equanimity). In other words, rituals are not necessarily the ultimate for seeking Salvation, but dedication and enlightenment are. This was indeed a lesson to Daksha who paid too much stress on rituals with disregard to devotion and mental regulation that landed him in his devastation but for Lord Sivas clemency and forgiveness.

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Significance of Siva Puja- Similarity of Three Murtis Indeed the multi-sided propitiousness of Siva Puja was described by Sage Lomesh: if one brooms the courtyard of a Siva Temple he is worthy of greeting him all over the world and trace his foot prints to forward him to Siva Loka. He who lights a dhup (incense stick) and offer Naivedya in a Temple of Maha Deva is blessed for two generations and attains name and fame instantly. Those who put up lights before the Deity of Hari-Hara would illuminate the families of their parents and offer Naivedya to the Deity would attain that much of Punya or the fruits of good deeds equating one Yagna. If a reconstruction of a dilapitated temple of Hara or Hari is taken up, the person concerned gets double the benefit and if a temple is constructed afresh, then the number of bricks used would equate the number of years in the Loka of the specified Lord. If a bell is dedicated to a Temple, the donor would become reputed in Three Lokas soon. Frequent darshans or visits to Temples would enhance the Punya account.The person whose tongue is always used to recite the Panchakshara Mantra-Om Namassivaya-is akin to Siva Himself. He who visits Siva Temple regularly in the morning hours burns off the sins of the current birth; the afternoon visit helps dissolve the sins of previous seven births and the night visits to the Siva Temple is devoid of sins totallly. The two words of Si and va denote propitiousness and sinlessness. If a person recites the name of Siva, thinks of Him, performs Siva Japa incessantly and dedicates himself to Siva in the mouth, hears about Him, thinks of Him, performs service to Him in all possible ways and means, organises Puran Pathan or sings hymns, group singings, musicals, bhajans, Vedic Renderings of Namakam /Chamakam and Mahanyasas and encourages innovative and thoughtful means to worship, has direct accesss to Siva Loka. While describing the worship of Siva Linga, Sage Lomesh emphasised that there was no difference of Bhagavan Siva and Lord Vishnu: Yo Vishnuh sah Sivo Jneyo yah Sivo Vishnureva sah, Peethika Vishnu Rupamsyallinga ruupee Maheswarah / Thasmallingaarchanam sreshtham Sarveyshaamapi vai Dwijah (He who is Vishnu is Siva and Siva be known as Vishnu Himself; the base is Vishnu and the Linga is Maheswara and thus worship of Siva Linga is idyllic). Brahma worships the Linga made of Mani Stone, Indra worships RatnaLinga, Chandra of Pearl made Linga, Surya of copper, Kuber of Silver made Linga, Varun of Ruby, Yama of Blue coloured Linga, Vayu of Kesari colour and so on. Inhabitants of Pataala too worship Siva. Gandharvas, Kinnaras, Daityas and Rakshasas were no exception.Bali, Namuchi, Hiranyakasipu, Vrishaparva, and several of Sukracharya followers were great Bhaktas of Maha Deva. Ravanaasura was an illustrious devotee of Maha Siva who bestowed a number of boons in appreciation of the Demons severe Tapasya such as Gyan, Vigyan, invincibility in battles, and even double the number of heads of Panchamukha Parameswara! Ravan thus became the Lord of Trilokas. As Devas approached Nandi to entreat Maha Deva to get rid of the menace of Ravana, Nandi gave the background as to why he sported the face of a monkey when Ravana waited to meet Maha Deva; Nandi did not like the comments of Ravana about Nandis face and gave a curse that a monkey-face placed before a human being in the Avatar of Lord Vishnu would herald the death of Ravana. Nandi also advised Devas to pray for Vishnu (who too was the same as Siva) to annhilate Ravana. Thus Devas prayed to Vishnu and the latter advised the Demi-Gods to place Nandi ahead and quickly become Vanaraas or monkeys. He would be born at Ayodhya and His consort Sita would be abducted by Ravana who ignored a human being while asking for boons from Siva. Various Devas assumed Amsas or 5

alternate forms like Indra as Vali, Brahma as Jambavaan, Surya as Sugriva, the Eleventh Rudra as Hanuman, Seshanag as Lakshman, Vishnus Bhujadanda or shoulders as Bharat and Shatrughna, Brahma Vidya ( Vedavati in earlier birth) as Devi Sita etc. Indeed Ravan was an illustrious devotee of Maha Deva but despite that unparalelled devotion to Siva, the Demons wish-list and evil actions were totally misdirected to highly immoral purposes and wicked ambitions that had to inevitably lead to destruction; yet, the steadfast devotion to Parama Siva was credited to provide salvation not only to himself but also his family and followers. Ravana could never realise that both Maha Deva and Bhagavan Vishnu were one and the same, as a thick veil of Maya (Illusion) misdirected him totally, vindicating the absolute Truth that Vishnu and Siva were indeed just the same; foolish entities like Ravana followed wrong convictions! Danavas defeat Devas, churning of Ocean and Emergence of Amrit As Deva Guru Brihaspathis entry to Court of Indra was ignored as the latter was engrossed in music and dance by Celestial damsels, the Guru cursed Indra to soon lose the splendour of Indraloka. Indra got frightened and approached Brahma who went up to Lord Vishnu in turn. Bhagavan Vishnu confirmed that those who got the Guru insulted were as bad as hurting ones own parents. Thus justifying the curse, Bhagavan Vishnu advised Indra and Devas to take refuge from King Bali of Patala Loka. Already having learnt of the curse, Danava Guru Sukracharya asked Bali the King of Danavas of Patala to group his full strength of his army and armoury and attack Indra and Devas. But since Indra and Devas sought refuge to King Bali and as per the Rules of Ideal Aministration, Bali did not wage a battle but plundered the wealth of Indraloka. But all the valuables of Swarga brought to Patala got submerged in the Ocean since King Bali did not perform hundred Aswamedha Yagnas as were performed by Indra. A Celestial Voice was heard by Davas and Danavas that the best way of recovering the heavenly wealth as also to materialise several objects including Amrit (Ambrosia) would be by way of churning Ksheer Sagar or the Ocean of Milk with Mandhara Mountain as the churning rod, requesting Maha Nag Vasuki or the Great String (in whose place Maha Garud, the Vahan or the carrier of Maha Vishnu was allowed to bear the brunt of Three Worlds) and approaching Maha Vishnu Himself to take up the Incarnation as Kurma or the stabiliser of the weight of the Mountain. The Super Churning of the Ocean commenced with the proud Danavas holding the Thousand Heads of Vasuki emitting poisonous flames perishing innumerable Danavas in the process while Devas were saved as they were placed at the tail of the Great Serpent. As the speed of churning caught momentum when both Danavas and Devas were engrossed in the historic mission, the whole world was engulfed by Halahal or skywide poisonous blaze gradually swallowing up the Universe. That was the most critical juncture when Maha Deva swallowed the Halahal and avoided Universal Destruction; He kept the Halahal in His throat and hence assumed the epithet as Nila Kantha or the Blue Throated thus ensuring the survival of the Lokas in His belly. As the churning got revived again, Chandra Deva emerged. Danava King Maha Bala roared and re-commenced the operation and in the process of churning appeared Surabhi-Kama Dhenu- the Celestial Cow followed by thousands of multi coloured cows which were requested for by Rishis. Then surfaced Celestial Trees of Four Kinds viz. Kalpa Vriksha, Parijata, Mango and Santana. The Jewel of Kaustubhwhich was like Suryamandal appeared and with mutual consent of Danavas and Devas it was gifted to Lord Vishnu. From the Ocean came up Ucchaisva or the best of the Horses; Iravata, the best of the Elephants; and Madira-like intoxicants 6

such as Bhang. Further churning resulted in Devi Maha Lakshmi- also known as Anvikshaki (Vedanta Vidya), or Mula Vidya, Vaishnavi, Brahma Vidya, Maya and Yoga Maya- who instantly threw a Varamalaor a neck lace around Bhagavan Vishnu and the whole Universe including Devas, Danavas, Rishis, Siddhas, Apsarsas, Kinnaras and Charanaganas were all immensely happy. Finally Dhanvanthari, the Demi God of Medicine, came to sight holding two pots of Amrit which were instantly snatched by Danavas and ran to Patalaloka and Devas too ran behind. King Bali asked Devas not to interfere with Amrit as he never interfered with several other valauble objects. Devas approached Lord Vishnu and the latter assured that He would personally intervene in the distribution of Amrit and assumed the incarnation of Devi Mohini. King Bali requested Mohini to help distribute and she agreed with a cautionary note the She should abide by Her own discretion, should not challenge the methodology or the Principles of distribution and that She would perform the task only next morning since everybody should consume the Ambrosia with physical and mental purity. Bali, Vrishaparva, Namuchi, Shankha, Budbud, Kalanemi, Vatapi, Kumbha, Nikumbha, Sund, Upasund, Nishumbha, Shumbha and other Danavas were lined up. Mohini said that before the distribution, some of the leading Devas like Indra and other Lokpals did deserve some charity and might be considered as their Guests of Honour. Bali was convinced that the principle of Athithis or Guests was agreeable and the entire other lot would be given away to Danavas as per their Status.Then the whole clan of Daityas nodded their heads to the age old Theory viz. Aadhou -hyabhyagathah pujyaa iti vai Vedika Shrutihi (Vedika Shruti says that at the very beginning, Guests be respected). Thus gradually fooling Danavas by spreading the net of Maya, Mohini gave away Amrit to all Devas, Gandharvas, Yakshas, and Apsarsas; but one Danava named Rahu sat in the queue of Devas by mischief and out of a feeling that his turn would never come otherwise.As Chandra complained to Vishnu alias Mohini, the latter cut off the head of Rahu who tried to take revenge on Chandra by swallowing him. But Chandra prayed to Maha Deva who rescued by keeping him in the lock of His hairs. Rahu chased Chandrama and Maha Deva kept Rahus many heads -which emerged due to the contact of Amrit- around His neck. Devas regain Swarga, Indra commits/ dissolves Brahmahatya and reinstated As Indra got back his status following the battle of Danavas and Devas, several Danavas were killed where as Devas had the advantage of Amrit. Sukracharya performed severe Tapasya and secured Mrita Sanjeevani and sought to revive the lives of Danavas, especially King Bali who committed suicide. Brahma named Vishwarupa as the Priest since Guru Brihaspati was unavailable even before the time of Churning of the Ocean. Vishwarupa had three heads, one to conduct Yagnas and the other two for non-virtuous tasks like drinking. Originally from among Danavas, he was partial to them by reciting proDeva mantras loudly and pro-Danava mantras quietly. Indra observed this trend of partiality and fraud and one day by observing the open cheating of Devas by anti Deva Mantras became furious and killed him. Indeed, killing a Brahmana is among the Pancha Pathakas-Brahma hatya Surapanam Steyam Gurvinyagamah Ithyesha mapyaghavathami -dameva cha nishkruthih, Namavyaharanam Vishnorthasatdvishayah mathih (Those who commit the unpardonable grave sins such as Killing of a Brahmana, drinking alcohol, thieving, and sleeping with Gurus wife have only one recourse to free from the sins viz. to chant the hymns of Bhagavan which alone would enlighten the mind and fill up with Godliness). Indra left his Loka and kept on running out of fright from the grave Sin and 7

performed Tapasya hiding in a pond for three hundred Divya years. Meanwhile, there was chaos in Indraloka as any Kingdom where a Grave Sinner rules, there would be all round misery, death, devastation and famine. Indra had not only killed a Brahmana, but also molested his Guru- like Gautamis wife. With great remorse and shame, Indra approached Brihaspati who told Indra that any sin commited knowingly would have far more intensity than otherwise for which there could be no prayaschit or remedy. Meanwhile Sage Narad suggested Nahush to become a temporary Indra, till Indra returned after long period of penance. Nahush had performed ninety nine Ashvamadh Yagas. But he did not really deserve to be the King as he desired to have Sachi Devi, the wife of former Indra. She did not indeed like the idea of her becoming Nahushas wife; she said that every Devata had one specific Vahan (Vehicle) but Nahusha had none and after securing one, he could approach her. Nahush selected for himself a Palkithat flies without the consent of its owners, viz. two well read Brahmanas; Nahusha said: Sarpa Sarpa, which meant Go Go at once. The Brahmana owners felt that Nahusha was disrespectable to them and purposively misunderstood that Nahush wanted to become Serpents and threw him down the mountains and he was converted as Ajagara, a huge serpent. A King like Nahusha who is arrogant, desirous of others wife and impertinent to virtuous Brahmanas would indeed deserve this kind of treatment! As there was no King of Swarga, with Indra was at large for fear of Brahmahatya sin and the interim King Nahusha was cursed as an Ajagaradown the mountain valleys, there was disorder and confusion. Indrani and Brihaspati accompanied by Senior Devas discovered Indra hiding in Manasarovar, a waterbody, where the Brahmahatya Shakti could not enter. In fact Brahmahatya Devi was alert to catch Indra if he came out of the water body. Brihaspati made an agreement with the Shakti to divide the Great Sin into four parts; one quarter of the Sin be excused in view of the Devakaryaor the Divine Task of liberating Indra since Indraloka was in confusion without a King and what was worse that Vishvakarmas had launched a powerful Yagna to obliterate Devas and Sages; the first part of the Sin be borne by Bhu Devi on the understanding that Lord Krishna when born in Dwapara Yuga would purify the entire Earth; the second part of the Sin would be distributed and absorbed in the Oceans, Rivers, Streams and various water bodies all over the Universe; the third part would be shared by trees, forests and the greenery ; finally the fourth part would get dissolved by the proportionate sins committed by women by not following the feminine duties to fathers, grandfathers and husbands and their families. Thus the totality of the Brahmahatya Paatakaof Indra got dissolved and he got reinstalled as the King of Indraloka. Vritrasura vs. Indra and Sage Dadhichis illustrious sacrifice Pursuant to the killing of Viswarupa by Indra, his father Viswakarma being keen on revenge performed relentless Tapasya to Brahma who granted the boon of begetting a mighty son who could defeat Indra and Devas. A boy of huge body dimensions and invincibility named Vritrasura was born and he grew not only in strength but extraordinary mental and spiritual capability.As Indra was in panic and distress, he approached Brahma who advised to request Sage Dadhichi to sacrifice his backbone and head which could destroy Vritrasura and no other force. Keeping in view the Divine Task involved, the Sage made the biggest sacrifice of his life and allowed the Asthidaan or the charity of his bones.Indra commissioned Surabhi to create a Vajra from the Sages backbone and an

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Astra- mantrik arrow-from Dadhichis head, known as Brahma Sira. Surabhi materialised various other Astra-Sastras for the use of other Devas from the powerful and mantra-purvak bones of the Maha Muni. The wife of Dadhichi called Suvarcha Devi who was away when the sacrifice of bones was executed was horror-struck to learn of it and gave a curse to all Devas to become childless, cried at the unbearable loss of her husband sitting under a pipal tree and gave birth to a radiant son named Pippalad. She blessed the child to become a learned Sage to be near the Pipal tree for long and entered into a Samadhi to join her husband. Meanwhile, the battle of Devas and Danavas broke out under the unique leadership of Vritrasura. Demon Nahuchi became such a ruthless and fierce opponent that even the Vajra could hardly hurt a body hair of his! A Celestial Voice was heard by Devas that Nahuchi be lured to fight on the Sea-shore and the foam of the waves was the key to end up the demon. As the great combatant Nahuchi was destroyed, Vritrasuara entered the battle field and Devas, Dikpalakas, Navagrahas, Gandharvas and the rest took to defensive positions and the battle was on for a while till Pradosha Samay or dusk time and the fight was to resume the next day. This helped Devas to perform the Pradosha Vrata to secure victory against the demons. Pradosha Vrata-Procedure of Worship to Lord Siva and its Udyapan Deva Guru Brihaspathi taught the Procedure of Worship to Bhagavan Siva on Kartika months Sukla Paksha Pournami or the full moon day; On that day, during the noon time one has to perform Puja formally to a Siva Linga; if the Puja is done to a Linga in a Village, it would be good, but outside village/Township is hundred times better; another hundred times better in a forest; and on a mountain top or a Tapovan, it is thousand times better! At Pradosh time, the devotee should observe silence, light up thousand or at least thirty two lights with ghee (classified butter), perform Shodasopacharas with flowers, fruits, incense sticks, sandal paste, naivedya (food offering) and so on. Later on, the devotee should execute hundred and eight Pradakshinas or circumambulations and Namaskars followed by Stuti or commendation as follows: Siva Stuti: Namo Rudraya, Neelaaya, Bhimaya Paramaatmaney, Kapardiney Sureshaya, Vyomakeshaya vai Namah/ Vrushabhadwajaaya Somaaya Somanathaaya Shambhavey, Digambaraaya Bhargaaya Umaakaanthaya vai Namah, Tapomayaya Bhavyaya Sivasreshthaaya Vishnavey, Vyalapriyaya Vyaalaaya Vyalaanaampathaye Namah / Mahidharaya Vyaghraya Pashunam pathaye Namah, Puraanthakaaya Simhaaya Shaardulaaya Makhaaya cha / Meenaya Meena nathaaya Siddhaya Parameshtiney, Kaamaanthakaya Buddhaaya Buddheenaam pathaye namah / Kapothaya Vishishtaaya Sishtaaya Sakalaatmaney, Vedaaya Veda Jeevaaya Veda Guhyaya vai Namah / Deerghaya Deergha Rupaya Deerghaarthaya vinaashiney, Namo Jagatprathishthaaya Vyomarupaaya vai Namah/ Gajaasura Mahaakaalay andhakaasura bhediney, Neelalohitha Suklaaya Chanda Munda Priyaya cha / Bhakti Priyaya Devaaya Jnaaney Jnaanavyaya cha, Maheshaya Namasthubhyam Mahadeva Haraaya cha / Trinetraya Tri Vedaya Vedaangaaya Namo Namah, Arthaya cha Artha rupaaya Paramaarthaya vai Namah / Viswa Bhushaya Viswaya Vishwanaadhaya vai Namah, Shankaraayacha Kaalaaya Kaalaavayarupiney / Aruupaaya Viruupaaya Sukshma Sukashmaya vai Namah, Smashaana vaasiney Bhuyo Namasthey krutthi vaasasey/ Shashaanka Shekharayeshaa yograbhumishayaya cha, Durgaya Durgapaaraya Durgaavayava sakshiney/ Linga Rupaaya Lingaaya Lingaanaam pathayenamah, Namah Pralaya Rupaaya Pranavarthaya vai Namah/ Namo Namaha kaarana

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kaaranaaya Mrityunjayaaya atmabahva swarupiney, Sri Thriyambikaayaasitikantha Sarva Gauripathey Sakala Mangala hetavey namah/ [My Greetings to Rudra, Nila, Bhima, Paramaatma, Kapardi (Jatajuta dhaari), Sureswara (Super Lord of Devaas), Sky coloured like thick haired Vyomakesha; Greetings to Vrishabhadwaja or Carrier of Flag with Bull Insignia, Soma accompanied with Uma, the Lord providing safety to Chandra, Bhagavan Shambhu, Digambara or the Wearer of clothes of all Dishas or Ten Directions (that is naked), Bharga or the resplendent personality worthy of devotion, and Umakantha. My veneration to the Embodiment of Tapas, Bhavya or the personification of Auspiciousness, Sivasreshtha, Vishnurupa, Vyalapriya or who has penchant for Snakes, has the Form of Snakes and is the Chief of Snakes; Mahidharaya or wears the brunt of Prithvi, Vyaghraya or Tigerlike, Pashupathi or the Lord of Beings, the annihilator of Demon Tripura, Lionlike and Yagnamaya. Greetings to Siva who is Fishlike, the Lord of Fishes, Siddha, Parameshthi, the destroyer of Kamadeva or the alternate name of desire, the core of Knowledge and mental maturity, Sarva Sreshtha, Sadhu Purusha or the Essence of Goodness and Sarvaatmaney or the Soul of one and all. My adulation to Veda Swarupa, the Provider of Life toVedas, Vedagruhnaya or the inner tatva of Vedas, Dirghaya, Dirgha Swarupa, Dirghaartha Swarupa and Avinaashaya or Indestructible, the Creator of Universe, the All Pervasive, and the Destroyer of Demons Gajasura and Andhakaura. My exaltation to the Beloved of Bhaktas, Parama Deva, the hub of Gyan and the Source of knowledge, Mahesha, Maha Deva, Hara, Trinetra, Tri Veda, Vedanga, the means of Artha ( wealth), Kama (Desire) and Paramartha (Salvation).My respects to Viswabhusha, Viswarupa, Viswanadha, Shankara, Kaala and Kaala-avayava Rupa. My salutations to Siva who has no Rupa, has Vikruta Rupa, and Sukshmakshma Swarupa or the Tiniest Form. My esteem to Smashanavaasi or the Dweller of Grave Yards, Vyaghracharma dhaari or the Wearer of Tiger Skin, Chandra -sekhara or who sports Moon on His head and the Supreme God who sleeps on frightening grounds. My worship to Paramatma who is Durgamaor unattainable and a limb to limb visualiser of Devi Durga. My devotion to Lingarupa, the Cause of Linga and the Cause of Causes or the Chief of Causes. My Sashtanga Namaskarto Maha Pralaya Rudra, the heart of Pranava or Omkara, Mritunjaya or the Triumph of Death, Sri Triambika, Nilakantha or the Blue Throated, Sharva, Gauripathey and Mangala hethavey or The Origin and Foundation of Auspiciousness.] Whoever is desirous of performing Pradosha Vrata ought to recite the Siva Stothra; by so saying Guru Briahaspathi asked to perform the Padosha Vrata at once and take on Demon Vritrasura to secure Glorious Victory by the Grace of Maha Siva.Deva Guru also explained the background of Vritrasura who was cursed by Devi Uma Herself in his earlier birth as Chitrarath, a Celestial King. The latter was travelling various Dwipas by air and witnessed Siva with Devi Uma on His lap and joked that Siva too like human beings could not resist the temptation of women. Devi Uma cursed the King at once to give birth and assume the form of a Raakshasa and that was the origin of Demon Vritrasura. Udyapana (Conclusion) of the Pradosha Vrata: Guru Brihaspathi explained the Procedure of Udyopana as follows: On a silver Murthi of Vrishabha be arranged a Throne over which are to be seated Devi Uma on the lap of Bhagavan Siva; the details of Siva are Three Eyes, Five Heads and Ten Hands presented clearly; Devi Uma / Devi Maheswaris Murthis be made of Gold. A cloth be wrapped on the back of Vrishaba Deva and the Murthis are arranged in a copper container.The Devotee should keep Jaagaran or be 10

awake through out the night with devotion and sincerity. Panchamrit Snaan or Bathing with five items viz. milk, curd, ghee, honey and sugar should be done with the following Mantras: Milk-Goksheera dhama Devesha Goksheerena maya kritam, Snapanam Deva Devesha Grihana Parameswara (Devesha! Deva Deveshwara! Parameshwara! Please accept cows milk with which I am bathing you); Ghee Snaan-Sapeershaa cha maya Deva Snapanam kriyatedhuna, Grihaana Shraddhaya dattham tava preethyartha meva cha (Now I am bathing you with ghee, kindly accept my offering); Madhu Snaan- Edham Madhu maya dattham tava thruptyartha meva cha, Grihaana Swam hi Devesha mama shanthiprado bhava (For your happiness Devesha! Kindly accept honey and bestow peace to me); SugarSithaya Deva Devesha Snapanam kriyathey maya, Grihaana Shraddhaya datthaam Suprasanno bhava Prabho (I am bathing you with Sugar Prabho! Kindly be gratified and bless me). After Panchamrit Snaan, provide Arghya Pradaan or offer sacred water; Paadyam or water for cleaning feet; Aasanamor Seating; Aachamanam(water for sipping); Yagnopaveetam ( Sacred Thread with Brahma grandhi suitable for executing Brahma Karmas like Vedic Yagnas), Vastram ( Cloth as a Present with blessings for longevity); Chandanam ( offering Sandal Paste with blessings to provide Sweet aroma like Life to the devotee); Dhupam ( offering Incense material to bless the devotee with Peace); Deepam-Deepam hi Paramam Shambho Ghritaprajjvalitham maya, Dattam grihaana Devesha mama Jnanaprado bhava ( I am offering Light with ghee to improve my Gyana); Aarathi: Deapavalim maya dattham grihaana Parameswara Aaraathirka pradaanena mama Tejahprado bhava (Parameswara! The Deep mala which is being offered be kindly accepted and aarthi given in your honour be blessed with radiance to me.) Thus fruits, lights, Naivedya or Food Offerings and Taambula or betel leaves and nuts be offered step by step and observe a festive atmosphere with music, dance, bhajan and various devotional activities which are dear to Bhagavan Siva. Pursuant to the successful conclusion of the Pradoshi Vrata, Indra joined the battle along with others; Vyomasura fought with Yamaraja, Thikshnakopa clashed with Agni Deva; Dhum and Athikopa struggled with Vayu Deva; Kubera was after Demon Kushmanda and many other stalwarts on either side fought fiercely with deadly weapons. Devas had a field day in smashing thousands of Demons happily utilising the bones of Dadhichi and the Danava soldiers resorted either to self defence or retreating from the battle. Vritrasur advanced into the thick of the encounter making such frightful sounds which reverberated across the Earth; there were continuous shootings of missiles far and wide and except lightnings of powerful arrows there was pitch darkness all around, coupled with panic stricken horror cries of death and destruction.With the blessings of Maha Deva who was pleased with the Vrata not only by Indra but various other Devas too, the mighty Demon Vrirasura fell with the final blow of Dadhichis backbone tactfully utilised by Indra and as soon as the battle concluded with victory of Devas, the remaining left over Danavas took to their heels to Patala and Indra was reinstalled as the King of Swarga. Kartikeya exterminates Tarakasura Lord Siva was engaged in continuous Tapasyain recluse and was disinterested in usual activities following the self-immolation of Devi Satis life after Dakshas insults at Daksha Yagna. The Demon Tarakasura did rigorous penance and obtained a boon of invincibility except by a child of Lord Siva as the latter was in meditation and was very unlikely to wed and beget a child. Meanwhile King Himavant was blessed with a daughter Girija as Devi

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Bhagavatis incarnation and at her age of eight approached Lord Siva to help Him for His daily pujas and Bhagavan agreed reluctantly. In course of time as Girija continued to serve Parama Siva in the chores of worship, the Deities, who were frustrated with the dreadful deeds of wickedness of Tarakasura hurting Devas, Sages, and the Righteous Beings, planned that Manmadha the God of Love along with Devi Rati would use his flowery arrows to kindle thoughts of Love in Bhagavans mind in favour of Devi Girija as a stepping stone for their wedding to beget a son to Siva and Girija who alone could kill the imperishable Tarakasura.But the plan of Devas got badly misfired, since Bhagawans third eye of fury opened and Manmadha got burnt as ashes. The inconsolate Rati Devi appealed to Lord Siva as after all it was at the behest of Devas that Manmadha acted for a Devakarya or a Divine Task and the brunt was borne by her husband! Devi Girija assured Rati Devi that she would help to revive Manmadha and also please Bhagavan to ask for her hand in wedding. She commenced such rigorous meditation as would shake up the whole Universe by not taking food for long, not even consuming dried leaves dropped from trees thus earning an epithet of Aparna and finally even discarding water. As the Trilokas were ablaze with the heat of her Tapasya, Devas and Sages approached Lord Vishnu who assured that Bhagavan Siva was indeed a Purana Purusha or the Most Ancient, approachable to one and all with clean mind; Varenya or Varaneeya (Devotion worthy) and the Paratpar Paramatma. Thus along with Brahma and Devas, Vishnu prayed for the vision of Pinakadhari Maha Deva who was in a Yoga Samadhi with Vasuki Serpent as Yagnopaveet or the Sacred Thread, Kambal and Aswatar Snakes as His earrings, Karkotak and Kulik as wrist ornaments, Shankh and Padma Serpents as shoulder ornaments, tiger skin as loin cloth, Bhagirathi Ganga and Ardha Chandra or half moon on His head inside the jatajut or His twisted hair and Blue Throat, while Nandi Deva too was nearby. As Lord Brahma eulogised Maha Deva, slowly the latter opened His eyes and described the prevailing situation created by Demon Tarakasura, Brahmas boon that only Bhagavans son could kill him, the efforts made by Himaraja and Devi Girija whose Tapasya of extreme nature was bursting into flames across the Universe, the burning of Manmadha and Satis agitation and finally the grand request being submitted to Bhagavan to wed Devi Girija which would eventually lead to the birth of an Illustrious Son who would exterminate the hazardous Demon Tarakasura.Bhagavan replied that as far as Kama Deva was concerned, the decision to burn him off was justified as all the Devas and such other Celestial Beings who had been victims of passion and worldly temptations were unstable of mind and action thas far and after Kamadahan or the destruction of Kama, they would all be like Himself and could all now concentrate in Samadhi the pursuance of Truth and Virtue and seek real bliss of Sat-Chit-Ananda; Bhagavan further said that Kama would inevitably lead to Krodha or anger, Krodha would lead to Sammohaor infatuation and rigidity of thinking, Sammoha would further lead to Bhrama or Maya / Illusion which would for sure camouflage Reality or Truth or the Everlasting; thus Kama the root cause be better put ablaze. Meanwhile Parvati was fully engrossed in high meditation. Bhagavan Siva was indeed impressed but desired to test her sincerity and unswerving attachment to Him. He took the form of a Brahmachari and enquired from Devi Girijas associates around her as to who she was and why was she performing such severe Tapasya? The associates replied to the queries and the Brahmachari had a hearty laugh that the Tapasya of such severity was a sheer waste as the Tapaswini was replete with ignorance since Rudra was an abhorable and

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wild person with a kapaala (skull) in hand, a dweller of Smashaan (Burial Ground), an odd exhibitionist of poisonous serpents all over His Body, a bearer of Tiger skin as Loin Cloth, an unkempt and ugly hair style with water flowing from head, always in the highly inauspicious and disgusting company of Pisachas, Goblins, Pramatha Ganas and a typically crazy creation of God! This beautiful and attractive lady coming of a wonderful family background could indeed wed a Demi-God like Indra, Dharmaraja, Varuna Deva, Kubera, Vayu or Agni, but never ever that horrible species like Rudra! Devi Parvati got infuriated with white anger and asked the Brahmachari to be lifted and thrown out at once to have affronted such Mahatma; the stupid and arrogant person was an unpardonable sinner, a Veda-dushak and a brainless brute! Bhagavan Siva then showed up in His real form to Devi Parvati who felt shy and reminded Rudra that She was a reincarnation of Devi Sati and that She gave birth to Devi Meena with the immediate and noble cause of begetting a Son, who alone could free the Universe from the great peril of Tarakasura. On being asked her by Lord Siva for a boon, Devi Parvati desired that Bhagavan should approach her father Himavanta to allow Him to wed her! To this Siva replied that Parvati had indeed declared her real form of Maya or Illusion and that of Maha Tatva which was a display of the interaction of three Gunas of Satva, Rajas and Tamas and that He would never extend His hand to receive as Bhagavan was always a Giver!! However, Bhagavan Siva deputed Sapta Rishis-the illustrious Seven Sages viz. Marichi, Atri, Angeera, Pulasthya, Pulaha, Kratu and Vasishtha- to Himavants residence to formally present Devi Parvati and Himavant proposed his daughter to wed Siva after consulting the brides mother Mena and the co-Mountains like Meru, Nishadh, Gandhamadan, Mandarachal and Mainak. The Sapta Rishis who conveyed the most auspicious news to Siva and suggested that Lord Vishnu be immediately called and along with Him Lord Brahma, Indra, Dikpals, Devas, Rishiganas,Yakshas, Gandharvas, Nagas, Siddhas, Vidyadharas, Kinnaras, Apsaras and their spouses and cohorts. Sage Narada among the Sapta Rishis was commissioned to personally invite Vishnu, Brahma, Indra and Devas. Gargacharya was asked to supervise the rituals of the wedding and Viswakarma constructed the Mangala Vedika or the Auspicious Platform to perform the Wedding and oversee the decorations. Chandra provided coolness in the atmosphere, Surya the luminosity, Vayu Deva blew fragrant airs and Indra organised dance, music and instrumental extravaganza. The Bridegroom arrived on Nandi, accompanied by Vishnu, Brahma and Devas, Maharshis, Pramathaganas, Rakshasas, Ghosts, Goblins, Pisachas and Spirits. Indeed the unprecedented and the Most Glorious Wedding of Siva-Parvati was the unique talk of the entire Universe. At the Wedding Muhurat, Himavan declared: I, Himavan of the Gotra and clan of Mountains have the greatest privilege of offering the hand of my daughter Devi Parvati to Parama Siva in the august presence of Brahma and Vishnu. In turn, I wish to know the Gotra and Vamsa of Bhagavan. As Sage Narada lifted his Veena instrument, Himavan stopped Narada not to play on it as a reply about the Gotra and Vamsa of Bhagavan; Narada told Himavan that the Gotra and Vamsa of Maha Siva was Naad or Sound and that was why Narada lifted the Veena as a reply! Bhagavan is Naadamayaor the Embodiment of Naada and one could realise Siva only through Naada, as He has no Gotra and no Vamsa since He is above these nomenclatures and yet belongs to all Gotras and all Vamsas. He has neither beginning nor end; He is the Most Supreme Energy beyond comprehension! Then Himavan gave the Kanyadaan or the offering of his daughter saying: Imam Kanyaam thubhyamaham dadami Parameswara! Bharyartham

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prathi gruhneeshva (Parameswara! I am offering my daughter as your Dharma Patni; kindly accept). After wedding, Maha Deva and Devi Parvathi moved on to Mountain Gandhamadan to a luxurious and lonely place for their honeymoon. As Bhagavans virility was so potent that parts of humanity were getting destroyed and Vishnu asked Agni Deva to take the form of a Hermit and asked Parvati to donate it and extended his hand which was immediately consumed by Agni even before Her eyes. Parvati got angry and cursed Agni to become Sarva Bhakshak or he who consumes everything. Agni could not bear the brunt of the virility of Maha Siva and begged Him to show a way to pass it on to someone; Siva advised that the same be planted into virtuous women and Sage Narada annotated that such women of high merit taking bath on an early morning in the instant month of Magha would be attracted to Agni and his hot flames and they would be the best choice for the transfer of the virility in particles. As advised by Narada, Krittikas approached Agni seeking warmth from the cold morning and Agni transferred some drops of virility to the ladies through their skin pores. Kritthikas got pregnant and their angry husbands gave a curse to them to roam on the Sky.They became Stars in a constellation and aborted their pregnancies. The major portion of the virility got left however on top of the Himalayas which was lifted by a crane and pushed into Ganges and the drops which were radiant like fire sparks got meshed up in the river bed plants (Sarkhand) of Ganges, who carried the foetus to a secluded place in the bushes thus emerging a Six Headed Child Kartikeya! As soon as the boy of highly chiselled face and limbs was born with extraodinary splendour, there was such illumination that travelled all over the Three Worlds instantly. Siva Deva and Devi Parvati appeared at once on their Vrishaba carrier and were overwhelmed with parental love and affection. Soon Brahma, Vishnu, Indra and the entire Devaloka assembled and so did Rishis, Yakshas, Gandharvas and all Celestial Beings. Veerabhadra and Pramathaganas as also the whole entourage of Maha Deva were ecstatic with boundless rapture. Devas put their chins up with indescribable relief that it would not be far for the greatest menace of Takakasura to be devastated by the new arrival on the scene! The whole atmosphere was of liberation, festivity and celebration. The Deities commenced preparations of war to kill Tarakasura but a Celestial Voice was heard that victory would be assured only under the Leadership of Kartikeya and hence all the Devas requested Skanda to become the Chief of the Army of Devas. Meanwhile, Devasena, the daughter of Mrityu Devata, became his wife and hence Skanda was known as Deva Senapati. Kartikeya led the army of Devas of the rank of Indra, Agni, Vayu, Kubera and Yama Dharma Raja and was seated on an elephant. Tarakasura arrived with a huge army of mighty warriors who dominated and controlled the opponents intially. Indras Vajra was overpowered by Tarakasuras weapon called Shakti and wounded Indra. King Muchukunda who fought for Devas and sought to stop the domination of Daityas but Tarakasura felled him on the ground; Muchukunda wanted to use the Brahmaastra but was restrained by Sage Narada as that weapon would no doubt create havoc but would be ineffective to destroy Tarakasura and hence Kartikeya would have to be warmed up gradually.Veerabhadra swang into action and slaughtered thousands of Demons; Tarakasura realised that Veerabhadra was not easy to control and thus used his Maya and assumed a thousand arms. Lord Vishnu suggested that the time was ripe to kill the Big Demon before he became more powerful and asked Skanda to charge him. With his mighty weapon Shakti on hand, Kartikeya chased Tarakasura but the latter retaliated with his own Shakti and even got Skanda unconscious for a while. After quickly recovering his poise,

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Kartikeya prayed to his parents and released the Maha Shakti which was fortified with the blessings of Bhagavan and Bhagavati and finally annihilated Tarakasura who incidentally was a Great Siva Bhakta! But Siva Himself was so pleased at the valour of the lad who was more than a match to the Greatest Demon of the times who sent shock waves across the Three Worlds! While Devas and Gandharvas were engaged in unending praises and noise of resounding musical notes, Rishis were engaged in Vedic Hymns to please Kartikeya and there was ecstasy across the Globe. Whoever reads or hears the details of the historic victory of Deva Senapati over the obnoxious Demon would be rid of Sins of even great severity and magnitude. Skandas remorse and Prayaschittha (Atonement) Although satisfied with the termination of Tarakasura, Kartikeya had strong sense of remorse of having committed Brahmana hatya (killing of a Brahmana) in the depth of his conscience, especially because the Rakshasa was an ardent devotee of Lord Siva. Then Vishnu cajoled Kartikeya saying that deducing from Shrutis (Vedas), Smritis (Shastras), Itihasa (History) and Puranas, there was no sin in killing a kindless Brahmana who had no hesitation in harassing and murdering others. If a cruel demon was distressing and the victims sought refuge, the valiant had a duty to protect Dharma (Justice). As regards the devotion of Siva, Vishnu said that besides being repentant, Kartikeya should perform Siva Aradhana as there was nothing else in the Three Lokas more ideal; indeed Parama Sivas chariot is Prithvi (Earth), Brahma is the Sarathi (driver), Vishnu is the arrow, Mandharachal is Dhanush (Bow) and Chandra and Surya are the wheels. Some exceptional Sages might resort to the Yoga route to worship Siva, but the easier way is to perform Linga Aradhana. It may be recalled that at the time of Creation, Lords Brahma and Vishnu had a controversy about their inter se seniority and Bhagavan Siva took the form of a huge Siva Linga which had neither beginning nor end and directed them to worship the Linga by performing Abhisheka(bathing) with milk, ghee, honey, curd or pure water and secure boons from Him. Hence Vishnu suggested that Kartikeya should dedicate Siva Lingas made of earth, bricks, or stones and wash off the stigma or sin of Brahma Hatya. Accordingly, Kartikeya called Vishvakarma the Divine Architect and asked that three Visuddha Lingas and their complexes be constructed forthwith. Then in the presence of all the Devas, Brahma, Vishnu and Parama Siva Himself, Skanda established one Linga named Pratigneswar on the West. Lord Siva blessed Kartikeya to declare that whosoever worships the Linga on Chaitra and Kartika Sukla Ashtamis after taking bath, observing fast, performing Puja and Jagaran (night-long awaken-ness) would be fearless of Mrityu (death). A second Siva Linga was established at Agnidasha (Agneya) where Tarakasuras entire Shakti was released to Pancha Bhutas (Five Elements) through his Kapala and is thus known as Kapaleswar Linga. To the North of Kapaleswara Linga, Skanda established Shakti Chhidra Tirtha, where the auspicious Patala Ganga River gave its presence, which is the demolisher of even grave sins. Lord Siva assured that worship to this Linga on Chitra Krishna Chaturdasi (preferably falling on Mondays) by observing fast and day long Rudra Parayana or the Recital of Rudra Geeta in praise of Parama Siva would secure the Devotee concerned a place in Rudra Loka. Enthused by the three Lingas set up by Kartikeya, Lord Brahma established a Siva Linga nearby a Sarovar or a pure water-body and it is said that Bhagavan Siva Himself would with His own hands receive the offerings by a devotee reciting Sadyojathaadi Pancha Mukha or Five Faced Siva Mantras. Like wise anybody establishes a Siva Linga and a Temple Complex would surely reserve a place in Siva Loka. 15

Those who clean up any Siva Temple with a broom would be free from ailments and illness; white-washes a complex or paints it would improve physical strength; decorates the Linga with flowers, Kusha grass, til or sesame seeds, Akshatas or rice grains mixed with turmeric powder would stay in Swarga Loka for many Divya years; those who perform Abhisheka (Bathing) to the Siva Linga with milk, curd, ghee / butter or even pure water would receive double the benefits; those who apply Kapila Cows Panchagavya comprising milk, curd, ghee, urine and dung in equal proportions along with Ganges Water, Kusha water or Sandal wood paste liquid with Mantras of Namakam and Chamakam would attain Parama dhama or Moksha. A devotee performing Shodasopacharas or Sixteen Services including offering sandal paste, Agar or incense / Dhoop, Dipa ( lighting of cotton vicks soaked in ghee), chaamara ( hand fan), Naivedya (offering of food items), Ghanta (Bell), Shankha (Conch shell), Geet or Singing in praise of Siva, Vadya (instrumental music), Nritya (dance), Ratha Yatra (Chariot drive) and similar services according to ones own capacities and desires would yield immense benefits. After setting up the Tri Linga Complex called Kumareswara, Skanda along with Devas and Brahma extolled Bhagawan Siva as follows: Namah Sivayastu niraamayaya namah Sivayasthu manomayaya , Namah Sivayasthu Surarchitaya thubhyam sadaa Bhakta krupaparaaya / Namo Bhavaayasthu Bhavodbhavaaya Namasthesthu the Dhwastha mano bhavaaya, Namasthesthu the Goodhamaha Vrataya Namasthesthu Maya gahanashrayaya / Namasthesthu Sarvaaya Namah Sivaaya Namasthesthu Siddhaaya Puraathanaya, Namasthesthu Kaalaayanamah Kaalaaya Namasthestu the Kaalakalaathigaya / Namo Nisargaatmaka Bhutikaaya Namostvameyoksha Mahindrakaaya, Namah Sharanyaya Namogunaaya Namasthesthu the Bhimagunaanugaaya /Namasthusthu Naanaa Bhuvanaadhikatreh Namosthu Bhaktaabhimata pradaatre, Namasthesthu Karmaprasavaya Dhaathre Namah Sadaa the Bhagavansukatreyh / Anantha Rupaya Sadaiva thubhhyamasajna kopaaya sadaiva thubhyam, Ameyamaanaaya Namasthesthu thubhyam Virishendrayanaaya Namasthesthu thubham /Namah Prasiddhaaya Mahoushadhaaya Namasthesthu the Vyadhi ganaapahaaya, Charaacharaaya vichaaradaaya Kumaranathaaya Namah Sivaya /Mahesha Bhuteysha Maheshvarosi Kaamesha Vaageesha Balesha Dhisha, Krodhesha Mohesha Paraparesha Namasthesthu Mokshesha Grihaashayesha / (Our Greetings to you Siva, who is devoid of all kinds of sorrows and physical ailments, the epitome of propitiousness; who is worshipped by the entirety of Devas and is ever merciful to Devotees; who is the origin of Creation and the Supreme Architect of the Universe, the demolisher of Kamadeva the Lord of Love; the Administrator of the most confidential Vratas; the Lord of Maha Gahan or the Illusory Sky; the most elusive Yoga Maya; the unknown Sharva at the time of the Great Illusion; the most ancient Siddha Swarupa or the well established Body Figure; the Kaala Rupa or the Form of Time; the Wizard Accountant of the Pluses and Minuses of all Beings; the Unknown Entity beyond the scope and reach of Time; the Natural Source of Wealth and Prosperity; the Essence of Abundance and Miracles; the Unique anchor of Hope and the Final Refuge; the Nirguna Brahma or the negation of Gunas / human characteristics; the Supreme Chief of all the Worlds; the Great Bestower of boons to Bhaktas; the Final Judge of Karmaphal or the End results of Actions; the Hold and the Holder; the Preserver and the Prop; the Endless Form; the Angriest and the most Logical; the Immeasurable; the Mahoushadhi or the Supreme Physician; the destroyer of all kinds of diseases and disorders; the Grand Chief of 16

Movable and Immovable Objects; the Master of the IIustrious Kumara; Mahesha, Bhutesha, the Fountain Head of desires and joys; the Lord of Vani the Goddess of Learning and Clarity of Expressions; the Lord of Strength and Mind; the Controller of Anger and Equanimity; the Epitome of Moha or infatuation; the Chief of this and all other destinies and the Overlord of Moksha or Salvation.) As Kartikeya prostrated before Bhagavan with extreme devotion, Parama Siva complimented the former about his valour and intellect and assured that those who worship him by morning and evening would be rid of malady, poverty, cowardice and attain Paramadhaam. More so, those who adore Kartikeya on Visakha Pournami on a seashore or river bed by observing purity and perform Puja, havan, Recital of Rudra, and charity to learned and well deserved Brahmanas would steer clear of Shathru Peeda (Terror of Enemies), Mrityu Peeda (Fear of untimely death), Visha Roga (Disease due to Poisonous Sources), alarm of thieves, fright of snakes and cruel animals etc; on the other hand, the devotees are blessed with health, wealth, progeny, comfort and contentment. Ashtottara Namavali of Kartikeya and Phala Sruti Sage Viswamitra recited the following Ashtottara Namavali (108 names) about Skanda Deva on the most significant day of Kartika Pournami of which Kartikaya is fond of: (1)Brahmavaadi (Profounder of Parama Tatvas) (2) Brahma (Creator and the Reciter of Vedas) (3) Brahma Vid (The Exponent and Interpreter of Brahma Gyan) (4) Brahma Vatsala (The beloved of Lord Brahma) (5) Brahmanya ( Brahmana Bhakta) (6) Brahmadeva(7)Brahmad ( The Donor of Brahma Gyan) (8) Brahma Sangrah (The absorber of Vedardha or the Para Brahmas reality) (9) Sarvotkrushta Parama Teja (The Highest of All of Super Luminosity) (10) Mangala Mangala (The Most Propitious of the Propitious)(11) Aprameya Guna ( He who has countless qualities) (12) Mantra Mantraga (The Quintessence of Mantras) (13) Savitrimaya (Full of Pranava or Omkara) (14) Sarvatra Aparajita ( Always unconquerable) (15) Sarvatmika Mantra (The universally applicable Mantra) (16)Deva (Replete with Divinity) (17) Shadakshara Vatam Vara (The best reciter of Om Namassivaya) (18) Gava Putra (The Illustrious Son of Cow or Ganges) (19) Surarighna (The Destroyer of the Enemies of Devas) (20) Sambhava (He who makes the Impossible possible) (21) Bhava bhaavana (The Creator of the Universe in the form of Brahma) (22) Pinakini ( The Carrier of Pinakini Dhanush in the form of Shankara)(23) Shatruha (The Terminator of Opponents) (24) Swetha ( He assumes the form of a white Mountain or Himalaya) (25) Guudha (Born in a hidden place or He who has latent Shakti) (26) Skanda (He who jumps while walking) (27) Suraagrani (The Chief of Suras)(28) Dwaadasha (Who has twelve eyes and ears) (29) Bhu (Bhu mandala Swarupa or the Form of Earth) (30)Bhuvah ( Antariksha Rupa or Of the form of Sky) (31) Bhavi (Bhavitva Rupa ) (32) Bhuva Putra (Bhumi Putra as Sivas manliness was absorbed into Earth) (33) Namaskruth (Saluted by one and all) (34) Nagaraja (The King of Serpents)(35) Sudharmatma (Epitome of Virtue) (36) Naka Prushtha (He is the Base of Swarga as He is the Saviour of Devas) (37) Sanatan (He is Eternal) (38) Hema garbha (Born of Sivas goldlike semen) (39) Mahagarbha (Born of several mothers) (40) Jaya (Victorious) (41) Vijayeswara (The Deity of Victory) (42) Karta (The Performer) (43)Vidhata (The Preserver) (44) Nithya (Everlasting) (45) Nithyarimardana (The constant destroyer of enemies) (46) Mahasena (The Chief of a huge army) (47) Maha Teja (The most Illuminated) (48) Virasena (Commander of a Valiant army) (49) Chamupati (The Leader of 17

Militia) (50) Surasena (The Principal of an intrepid band of soldiers) (51)Suradhaksha (The Supreme Head of Devas) (52) Bhimasena (The Chief of a terrifying military) (53) Niramaya (Devoid of illness) (54) Shouri (The most gallant Son of Shankara) (55) Patu (Smart and Enterprising) (56) Maha Teja (The highly radiant) 57) Viryavan (Personification of Might) (58) Satya Vikram (Courageously Truthful)(59) Tejogarbha (Agni Putra) (60) Asuripu (Antagonist of Demons) (61) Suramurthi (A byword for Devas) (62) Surojit (More gutsy than Devas) (63) Krutajna (Grateful to those who stand by Him) (64) Varada (Bestower of windfalls) (65) Satya (Satyavadi or He who stands for Truth) (66) Sharanya (Protector of those who seek refuge) (67) Sadhu Vatsal (Affectionate and kind to the Good) (68) Suvratha (Benefactor of those who perform good Vrathas) (69) Surya Sankash (Luminous like Sun) (70) Vahnigarbha (Begotten of Agni) (71) Ranotsuk (Enthusiastic of Battles) (72) Pippali (Consumer of Pippali)(73) Seeghraga (Travels at top speed) (74) Roudri ( Son of Rudra) (75) Gangeya (Son of Ganges) (76) Ripudarun (Demolisher of Foes) (77) Kartikeya (Son of Krittikas)(78) Prabhu (Highly accomplished) (79) Kshanth (Forgiving and Patient) (80) Neela-damshtra (Blue Thoated) (81) Mahamana (of large heart disposition) (82) Nigrah(Possessive of Restraint) (83) Netha (Leader) (84) Suranandana (Provider of happiness to Devas) (85) Pragrah (Controller of Enemies) (86) Paramananda (Extremely blissful) (87)Krodhagna (Alleviates the anger of Devotees) (88) Tar (Producer of heavy sound) (89)Vucchrit (High stamper of feet) (90) Kukkuti (Keeper of Cock as chariot flag) (91) Bahuli (Possessor of many useful implements) (92) Divya (Has Divine illumination) (93)Kamad (Fulfilled of desires) (94) Bhurivardhan (Has extreme amusement) (95) Amogh (Unconquerable and ever successful) (96) Amritada (Endower of Amrit) (97) Agni (Agni Swarup) (98) Shatrughna (Terminator of Opponents) (99) Sarvabodhan (Provider of Knowledge to one and all) (100) Anagha (Devoid of sins) (101) Amar (indestructible)(102) Sriman (Highly Prosperous) (103) Unnati (High Profiled) (104) Agni Sambhava(105) Piscacha Raja (King of Piscachas and Siva Ganas) (106)Suryabha (Akin to Sun God in radiance) (107) Sivatma (Siva Swarupa) and (108) Sanatana (Eternal). Phalasruti: Those who recite the Ashtottara of Kartikeya become fearless, contented, and happy; a pregnant woman reads or hears the Ashtottara would be blessed with a son of virtue and fortune; and if unmarried girls read they are sure to secure ideal husbands. Significance of Daan (Charity)-Its Profile and Fruits In the Kaumarika Khand of the present Skanda Purana, some details of Pandavas Vanavasa (forest life) for twelve years pursuant to the unjust game of chess by Kauravas and Arjuns Tirtha Yatras or visits to Holy Places and Rivers were described. The important Tirthas were Kumaresh Tirtha, Stambhesh Tirtha, Varkareswari Tirtha, Mahakaleswara Tirtha, and Siddheswari Tirtha. But these Tirthas were infested by crocodiles and used to pull down Tapasvis from river beds into water and kill them. Thus nobody dared to enter the Tirthas. Some persons warned Arjuna but he did not heed the advice and was caught by a crocodile which was forcibly drawn out of water and hurt so much that it was almost killed. From the dying crocodile emerged an Apsara or a Divine Damsel. Similarly crocodiles from other Tirthas also turned out to be Apsaras and told Arjuna of their experience of a Tapasvi on a river bank attracted them but the Brahmana cursed them to become crocodiles till such time that a mighty warrior entered the waters and dragged the curse-ridden crocodiles forcibly on to the banks of the Rivers. The four

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Apsaras so redeemed by Arjuna were Sourabhi, Sameyi, Budbuda and Lata and henceforth the Sacred Tirthas were made accessible and active once again. Thereafter, Arjuna visited the Ashram of Sage Narada and secured blessings, especially since Arjun made the Panchaapsara Tirthas accessible once again. In this context, Narada described to Arjun about daan (charity), its two hethus (varieties), six Adhishtaans (Reasons), six Anks (Parties), two Parinaams (end results or fruits), three bhedas (classifications) and three Vinas Saadhanas (negative results). The two hethusas normally perceived are about the size of the charity-small or big- as also of the quality. But such hethus are not as important as the shraddha or dedication and devotion are. Bhagavan Siva would be pleased only by the sincerity and pure heart that is attached to the charity rather than any other aspect. Again, Dhana Daan or the charity of money is more popular than Vastu Daan or charity of material, Vastra Daanor charity of clothes etc. since charity of money would buy back Vastu or Vastra. Then the six Adhishtaans or reasons of Daan are: Dharma Daan without strings attached ie.Daan given to the Virtuous or Dharmatmas; Artha Daan keeping in view some purpose or utility; Kaama Daan like favours for women, wine or such other benefits in view; Lajja Daan is due to compulsions of Public or Society; Harsha Daan is made on receiving good news and out of happiness; and Bhaya daan out of compulsion, fear or avoidance of risks. The six Anks or donor/receiver parties are as follows: The Positive Donors are Daatas by nature; the Dharmatmas or the Virtuous; those desirous of donating willingly and happily; the Vyasana rahit or devoid of bad habits; Pavitra or Symbols of Purity and Anindaneeya or the blemishless.The Negative Donors are ill mannered, indolent, evil minded, persons of bad habits, persons who swear to support the Evil and persons who are sleepy! Among the Good Receivers of Charity are those of good Kula or caste, who has Vidya or good Education, good Aachaar or family bearing / tradition, earners of rightful way of life or of Satvik Life, of kind heart, Jitendriya or of Controlled Emotions and finally of excellent parenthood. The second category of receivers of donations is of pleasant visage, of sincerity and thankfulness but not of demanding nature, cantankerous or mean. The donors of charity must have the perspective of what kind of material is required or useful to the receiver or otherwise the purpose of charity would be defeated.The two Parinamsor end results/fruits are either gain of Punyafor the Paralok or after death or for use in Ihalok or the current life to the receiver. The latter Dannas or for the use of Ihalok are of four types viz. Dhruva, Trika, Kamya and Naimittika. Dhruva is for public use like digging wells, construction of Temples, gardens, Choultries, schools etc.Trikha is for daily utility like Nithya Daan, say Vidya Daan. Kamya Daan is to fulfill ones own desires like victory, wealth, might etc. Naimittika Daan is like Samkranti Daan, Grahana (Eclipse) Daan, Daan at auspicious occasions like weddings, Vraths etc. or Kriyapeksha Daan like Shraadh, Vratas etc.; Gunapeksha Daan like Vidyabhyas and so on. Three Bhedasor types of Daan are classified; the best types are charity of houses, temples, buildings, Bhumi (farms / fields), cows, Wells, gold and ornaments and the best of course is to give away ones own life itself as Daan. The Secondary Variety of charity relates to Anna (Food grains), Vastra (Clothing), Vahan etc. The tertiary kind of Daan is to donate footwear, umbrellas, utensils, curd, honey, Asan or seating, deepa or Light, wood, stones etc. Now, there are three kinds of Daan Naashak reasons viz. Paschattaap or regret of having given the Daan; Apaatra Daan or charity to the wrong and unserved person or Ashraddha Daanis to a person on account of laziness. Paschattapaya Daan indicates as to why the

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Daan is given at all; Ashraddha Daan is Rakshasa Daan and Apaatra Daan is as bad as not giving it away. The worst Daan is Paisacha Daan or the charity duly given is returned under duress or due to the bad behaviour of the receiver or the donor. Incidentally, Apaatra Daan should be avoided to an undeserving Brahmana who is bereft of Vidya, sells his/her conscience if his Bhumi is accepted; if he accepts a cow to kill it or sell it; if he accepts gold to encash it, a horse that might destroy the receivers eyes; Vastra to harm his wife; ghee his manliness; til seeds that might harm his children and so on. Narada seeks replies to a questionnaire and bestows Brahmas Charity to Kalaap Village Sage Narad told Arjun that in the context of Daan Pradaan or bestowing charity of a large piece of land to a well deserved Brahmana Community; he travelled the World over to identify a Place where satisfactory replies are received to a Questionnaire of Twelve Queries framed by him. The questions were: 1) who knows Matrikas well; how many Matrikas are there and how many Aksharas or Letters? 2) What are the Twentyfive Materials in the domestic or personal context? 3) Who knows the art of converting several women into one? 4) Who is the unique person that knows the Vaakya Rachana or the Writer of Sentences connected with Strange Fiction? 5) Who is the learned Brahmana living in an Ocean with full awareness that a ferocious crocodile is always around? 6) Who is the best Brahmana possessing the knowledge of eight-fold Braahmanatva? 7) Which are the foremost days falling at the beginning of each Yuga? 8) Which are the first days of each Manvantara? 9) Which was the first day that Surya Deva rode in his chariot? 10) Who could explain that human beings are put to tremendous anxiety like a black serpent has? 11) Who is the most intelligent and practical human being in the whole world and why? 12) Who is aware of the two distinct routes available to human beings? Sage Narada could not get convincing replies to the above questionnaire among the several places visited and Expets interviewed as the questions were supposed to be tough! Then suddenly it occurred to the Sage that he could perhaps try out the Kalap Village that boasted of exceptionally renowned Veda Pundits. On reaching there and having posed the questions, the Elders of the Village commented that the questions were indeed very elementary and could as well be replied by one of an unintelligent and dull boys of the village! He asked a boy said to be of an inferior intelligence named Suthanu who gave the replies as follows: In his preface before answering the questions, Suthanu said that various Gurus normally tended to teach the Scriptures and Mantras, generations after generations, only by memorizing but without necessarily providing the meaning, let alone the implications and intricacies of the stanzas. Indeed a Brahmana who merely memorized the Mantras without realizing the meaning was a mere two legged animal! For example, Aakar is known as Brahma, Ukar is Vishnu and Makar is Siva; the Triguna form of AUM with Anuswarup Artha Matra on top of AUM ( in Sanskrit) is Maheswara Himself! How many are aware of the significance of Omkara Mantra? Coming back to the first question as to how many types of Matrikas are there and of how many Ahshas or Letters are in the Matrikas, the reply is that there are twenty letters in a Matrika. Besides there are fourteen Swaras, thirty three Vyanjanas, Anuswaras, Visarga, Jihva muleeya or tongue-ended voice and Upadhaneeyas.Matrikas are called the essence of Language. The fourteen Swaras from A Kar to Auom kar represent Manu Swarupas viz. Swayambhu, Swarochish, Auttam, Raivat, Tamas, Chakshu, 20

Vaivasvath (the Present Manu), Savarni, Brahma Savarni, Rudra Savarni, Daksha Savarni, Dharma Savarni, Roucha and Bhautya. The current Manu Vaivasvat is Rukara Swarup and his colour is Black. From letters Bha to Sha are eight Vasus viz. Dhuva, Ghora, Sowmya, Apah, Nala, Nila, Pratyasha and Prabhasa. The Letters from Ka to Ha represent thirty three Devatas. Actually letters from Ka to Tha represent Twelve Adityas viz. Dhata, Mitra, Aryama, Shakra, Varuna, Amshu, Bhaga, Vivisvan, Pusha, Savita, Tvashta and Vishnu. From Da to Baare Eleven Rudras viz. Kapali, Pingala, Bhima, Virupaksha, Vilohita, Ajaka, Shasana, Shasta, Shambhu, Chanda and Bhava. Letters Sa and Ha are represented by the two Ashvini Kumars, thus accounting for all the thirty three Devatas. The Letters Anuswar, Visarg, Jihva Muleeya and Upadhaneeyas stand for Jarayuja, Andaja, Swedaja and Udbhija. About the Second question regarding twenty five Vastus or materials for domestic/personal utility, the reply is: These are Pancha Bhutas viz. Prithivi( Earth), Apas ( Water), Tejas (Radiance), Vayu (Wind) and Akash (Sky); Five Karmendriyas(Mouth, hands, feet, anus and genital); Five Jnanendriyas ( Ears, Eyes, Tongue, Nose and Skin) and the corresponding reactions viz. Shabda (Sound), Rupa (Vision), Rasa (Taste), Ghrana (Smell) and Sparsha (Feeling) and Pancha Vishayas viz. Man ( Mind), Buddhi (Thinking), Antaratma (Conscience), Ahankar (Ego), Prakriti (Nature / Maya) and Purusha (Almighty). In other words, the Twenty Five Tatvas of Domestic / Physical nature as above are blessed by Almighty to realize the Self as reflected from Paramatma. The Third question concerns about the various forms of a woman who is essentially a single entity. The reply is about a persons Buddhi or mental condition which is comparable to that of a woman whose forms and moods are several (Frailty thy name is a woman!). It is the single Buddhi which takes myriad kinds of feelings, reactions and impulses. The Fourth question relates to a person who exists in a Sansar (World) and describes it as an attraction like the beautiful phrasing of an Essay, not realizing that the charm of the write-up is a trap or the Sansar Bandhan; hence the lure of life is but a powerful bondage! The Fifth query is about the joy of living in an ocean, being fully aware of the dangerous crocodile nearby.Human beings get enticed to swim in an ocean, despite the risk of life and it is that Lobha or attraction which generates Moha (obsession) or Maya, Abhiman or deep sense of Belonging, insensitivity to the risk involved, avarice to possess more and more, ignorance and sheer stupidity. All these are ramifications of Vyamoha (possessive nature) like desire to secure others wealth, woman, and comfort, all at once being dishonest, undeserved and corrupt. The sense of Lobha leads to ego, deceit, anger and jealousy. The lurking crocodile is surely attractive but hazardous. The Sixth inquiry concerns the Eight-fold Brahmanatva classified as Matra, Brahmana, Srotriya, Anuchan, Bhruna, Rishi Kalpa, Rishi and Muni. A normal Brahmana by birth and caste is invariably the one who nodoubt has the advantage of Upanayana Samskara and Gayatri Upaseshacalled Sacred Thread Ceremony but with or without performing Vedic Karmas or duties; this kind of an ordinary Brahmana is name sake only. He who follows Vedic Achara or performs Veda Practices being soft natured, fond of loneliness, truthful and pious is a Brahmana in a better sense than a Matra type. The better category of Brahmanas are Srotriyas who are Ritual, Virtuous, proficient of atleast one Veda sakha

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(Branch) along with six vedangas, pure hearted and Dharmajnanas. The higher class of Brahmanas called Anuchans are well read, Guru Type of senior Vidwans who preach and teach and practise ideal Brahmanatva. The further higher category is called Brahmanas with worldly wisdom to be able to interpret Principles to practical situations, authorities on Vedas, Samyamiswho have restraint and poise, Tatva Gyan and Senior Guides on Rituals etc. Rishi Kalpas are Ashrama Dwellers, Naishthies, and limited Eaters. The Rishis are Dhyana Nishtha Parayanas (Meditation-Centric) and Jitendriyas or victorious of various worldly temptations. Munis are beyond the barriers of Brahmanas and the known norms and controls applicable to them, since they belong to Super Human Beings worthy of worship and possess yogic powers and Siddhhis. The Seventh query was about the first days of each Yuga. Kartika Sukla Navami was the first day of Satya Yuga, Visakha Sukla Tritiya was of Tretha Yuga, Marga Krishna Amavasya was of Dwapara Yuga and Bhadra Krishna Trayodasi was the opening day of Kali Yuga. Charities and homas performed on the Yugadi Days are stated to be hundred days superior compared to normal days. The Eighth question was about the opening days of each of the Fourteen Manvantaras. These are Asvayuja Sukla Navami, Kartika Dwadasi, Chaitra and Bhadra Tritiya, Phalguna Amavasya, Paushya Ekadasi, Ashadha Dasami, Magha Saptami, Shravana Krishna Ashtami, Ashadha Pournami, Kartika Pouranami, Phalguna/Chaitra/Jeyshtha Pournamis are all worthy of charities and homams. That Lord Surya mounted his chariot for the first time was on Magha Sukla Panchami, known as the Ratha Saptami was the reply to the Ninth question and austerities and charitities are stated to be highly fruitful bestowing Lord Suryas blessings to destroy poverty and improve happiness of the devotees. The Tenth question was about the anxiety of life of any human being; the reply was that who ever has to beg for food each and every day was indeed the most unfortunate one in the world; such a person not only had constant worry through out his/her life but is destined to go to hell after death too. The Eleventh query was about the Super expert in this frightful world. The reply given by Suthanu stated that the best Daksha of Dakshas was he who realized as to what would happen after death and tried to equip him to perform pious acts so as to minimize the impact of current life and possibly of the previous lives. If a person devotes at least eight months and one day before death or in other words of the last leg of life and possibly as many days of life as possible, would be considered as an Expert. Finally, the Twelfth question seeks reply about the two alternative routes of attaining Salvation viz. the normal Karma Marg/ the Dharmic route of enjoying life as also of attaining the high bliss of Moksha after death and alrernatively adopting the Vihanga Marg ( The Sky route) or straight-away adopt the Naishkarma Marg or the Jnaana Marg. If one were not to opt for either route, the concerned human being is as good as a Pakhandi or ignorant fool! Having received the replies to all the Twelve Questions, Sage Narada was thrilled that Lord Brahma (his father) ought to be complemented as the latters Srishti (Creation) was indeed amazing, since a boy was able to reply the queries. Pursuant to Brahmas behest, the

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process of selection was completed and a substantial charity was declared as a Gift to the Kalaap Gramvaasis or the Villagers of Kalaap a Huge Area viz. Mahi Sagara Sangama Maha Tirtha. This Tirtha was situated from Kalap Gram by about hundred yojanas by Akash Marg (The Sky Route) and by the Grace of Kartikeya all the residents of Kalaap Gram could be shifted by a long jump. This most Sacred Tirtha was such that there were no proverbial thieves viz. Kama (desire), Krodha (anger), Lobha (avarice) etc. who could rob the immense wealth of Gyan in the Holy Region. Kalaap Gram itself was some hundred yojanas on the mountains of Kedarnath Tirtha. As a result of the Great Charity of Lord Brahma by Sage Narada, some Thirty Thousand Brahmanas of immense quality who were versatile in Adhyayan of Vedas and Scriptures and Anushthaan (Ritualistic Meditation) got transferred to Mahi Sagara. King Indradyumna and his Satsang Group An illustrious King of yore named Indradyumna was highly virtuous and propagated Dharma (high merit) all over his Kingdom to such an extent as to make announcements of the next Ekadasi Vrata to be performed with sincerity! The King was an extraordinary example of charity to all the needy subjects, especially Brahmanas. Lord Brahma did the unique honour of inviting him in human body form by an aeroplane to Brahma Loka to let him enjoy the just pleasures there and return back. The King met the memorable Sage Markandeya, Nadijangh Baka ( in the form of a Crane), Prakarakarma Uluk (in the form of an Owl), Chirayu Gadhi Raj ( in the form of a Donkey) and Manthar Kacchuva (in the form of Tortoise)-all of exceptional learning of Scriptures! He also met Sage Lomesh of the famed Kalaap Village near Kedareswara mentioned above. He prostrated before all the Experts of Scriptures and got the benefit of their discussions on Parama Tatvas of high learning. Sage Lomesh revealed that the King was in his past life a Sudra, who entered a waterbody and performed several pujas with Lotuses to Parama Siva very sincerely and died eventually. In the next earlier birth, he was a Brahmana with the knowledge of his earlier life and even from childhood had strange behaviour but as a penchant for Siva Puja and used to talk of Avidya (ignorance), Maya (illusion) and Siva Aradhana. Eventually the boy secured Siva Darshan (Vision) and gave him the boon of longevity till such time that all his body hairs dropped away. Such was the background of the King that Lord Siva Himself taught him Bahir Yoga and Antar Yoga. He performed innumerable Yagnas and a series of debates on Dharmik Topics in the august company of the Sadhu Sabhas or Satsangs of Vedic Luminaries like Markandeya, Lomesh, Baka, Uluk, Gadhiraj and Kacchuva. The Collective Aradhanas of these and such other Mahatmas ( The Great Souls) generated waves of blissful Ambrosia full of Bhakta Shadrasas( or Six Bhavas) viz. Dasya Rathi, Sakya Rathi, Vatsalya Rathi, Shantha Rathi, Kranta Rathi, and Adbhuta Rati! They also performed sacred snaans (baths) in the River Mahanadi, (next in importance of Mahi Sagara Sangam), and its various other Tirthas like Kasi, Kurukshetra, Ganga, Narmada, Sarasvati, Tapa, Payoshmi, Nirvindhya, Gaya, Godavari, Aruna, Varuna and such other twenty thousand six hundred rivers on Prithvi! The conclusion of the Satsang Group states: Human life is full of Avidya (Ignorance), Asmitha (Anger), Raag (Desire), Dvesha (Hatred) and Abhinivesh (Death). Since such factors in mind are abounding with sins, it is highly unlikely that one could meditate Sada Siva; it is highly unlikely that one could take birth in the Karma Bhumi of Bharata Desa; it is highly unlikely to have

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Ganga Snan; it is unlikely to practise charity to virtuous Brahmanas; it is unlikely that one could make oblations to Agni Deva; and it is also unlikely to worship Siva regularly. ( Papohat Buddhinaam Siva Varthapi durlabham, Durlabham Bharatey Janma durlabham Siva pujanam / Durlabham Jahnavi snanam Sivey Bhakti sudurlabham, Durlabham Braahmaney daanam durlabham Vahni pujanam / Alpa punaischa dushpraapyam Purushotthama pujanam / ) Thus Tirtha Snaan, Japa, Tapasya, and such Acts of would alone redeem human life and Siva Aradhana should be the only objective of purposeful life.Why does a foolish person run after mirages having kept in hand a full vessel of Ambrosia! The famed Shata Rudreeyam 1)Brahma dedicated a golden Linga to Bhagavan Siva named Jagat Pradhana and prays it at His feet 2) Sri Krishna set up a black coloured Linga called Urjit and prays to Sivas head 3) Sanaka and other Manasa Putras of Lord Brahma pray to Siva Hridaya (Heart) Linga as Jagadrati 4) Sapta Rishis pray to Dharbhaankura maya (Dharbha made) Linga called Viswa Yoni 5) Devarshi Narada conceived Siva Linga as an all pervasive Aakash (Sky) and prayed to Jagatvija 6) Devaraj Indra prays to a Diamond Linga called Vishvatma 7) Surya Deva prays to a copper Linga called Vishwasruga 8) Chandra performs Puja to a Pearl Linga known as Jagatpathi 9) Agni Deva prays to an Indra Nila Mani Linga named Viswesvara10) Brihaspathi prays to a Pushparajamani with the name Visva Yoni 11) Sukracharya pays penance to a Padmaragamani Linga called Viswakarma 12) A golden Linga is worshipped by Kubera called Iswara 13) Viswa Deva Ganas perform puja to a Silver Linga called Jagatgati 14) Yama Dharma raja pays his obeisance to a peethal (brass) Linga named Shambhu15) Ashtavasus execute Aradhana to a Glass made Linga called Shambhu 16) Maruganas do puja to a Triloha Linga (three kinds of metals) called Umesh / Bhupesh 17) Raakshasas pay penance to an iron Linga and named Siva as Bhuta Bhavya Bhavodbhava 18) Guhyaka Ganas perform puja to a mirror-made Siva Linga named Yoga 19) Muni Jaigeeshva does Upasana to Brahmarandhra maya Linga named Jaigeeswara Yogeeswar 20) King Nimi considers the Ugal Netra or the Two Eyes as Parameswara Linga called Sharva 21) Dhanvanthari worships Gomaya Linga (cow dung) in the name of Sarva Lokewswareswara 22) Gandharvas perform Puja to wood based Siva Linga named Sarva Sreshtha 23) Lord Rama did intense Japa to Vidyunmani Linga in the name of Jyeshtha 24) Banasura paid homage to Marakathamani Linga named Varishtha 25) Varuna Deva offers reverence to a Sphatikamani Linga named Parameswara 26) Lokatrayankara is the name given to a Linga made of Munga (Black Pearl) by Nagagana 27) Devi Saraswathi pays reverence to Suddha mukta maya Linga named Lokatrayashrita 28) Sani Deva performs Japa on Saturday Amavasya midnight at Maha Sagara Sangama the Bhavari ( Honey Bee) Swarupa Linga named Jagannadha 29) Ravana implored to a Linga made of Chameli flower and named it Sudurjaya 30) Siddhaganas paid respects to Manasa Linga called Kama Mrityu Jaraatiga 31) Raja Bali worshipped Yashamaya (Famed) Linga named Jnanatma 32) Marichi and other Maharshis pray to Pushpamaya (flowerful) Linga with the name Jnana gamya 33) Devathas who performed noble deeds made approbation to Shubhamaya Linga (Propitiousness) named Jnaanajneya 34) Maharshi Phenaj (foam) who drank Phena did Upasana to Phena Linga called Sarvavid 35) Sage Kapila performed Japa to Balukamaya Ling named Varada. 36) Saarasvat, the son of Devi Sarasvathi did Upasana to Vanimaya Linga named Vaageeswara. 37) Sivaganas made a Linga of

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Bhagavan Siva and provided penance to Rudra. 38) Devathas made a Jambu River golden Linga to pray to Sitikantha. 39) Budha prays to Shankhamaya (conchshell) Linga by the name of Kanishtha. 40) The Two Ashvini Kumars pray to Muktikmaya Parthiva Linga named Suvedha. 41) Ganesha made a Siva Linga made of Wheat Flour worships it by the name of Kapardi 42) Mangala Graha ( The Planet of Mars) made a Buttermade Linga called Karaala to pray. 43) Garuda prays to an Odanamaya Linga named Haryaksha. 44) Kamadeva Manmadha prays to a jaggery made Linga called Rathida .45) Sachi Devi, the Consort of King Indra paid reverence to a Salt-made Linga Buddhakesha. 46) Visvakarma prayed to a Prasaadamaya (or of the shape of a Mahal / Building) Linga called Yamya. 47) Vibhishana made a dustfulof Linga called Suhrutam to pray. 48) Raja Sagar who brought Ganga from Sivas Head made a Vamsamkura Linga called Sangat. 49) Rahu made a Hing (asafoetida) made Linga named Gamya to worship. 50) Devi Lakshmi made a Lehya Linga named Harinetra and worshipped it. 51) Yogi Purush prays to Sarvabhuthatha Linga called Sthaanu. 52) Human beings prepare a wide variety of Lingas and worship them by the name of Purusha. 53) Nakshatras (Stars) pray to Tejomaya (full of Radiance) Linga called Bhaga / Bhaskara. 54) Kinnaras make a Dhaatumaya Linga by the name of Sudeepth for Japas. 55) Brahma Raakshasa Ganas pray to Asthimaya (Bones) Linga named Deva Deva. 56) Charanas worship dantamaya (full of Teeth) Linga called Ramhas. 57) Sadhya ganas pray to Saptaloka maya Linga titled Bahurupa. 58) Ritus worship Doorvaankura maya Linga named Sarva. 59) Celestial Damsel Urvasi prays to Sindhura Linga named Priya Vasan. 60) Apsaras perform Archana to Kumkuma Linga called Abhushana. 61) Guru Deva performs puja to Brahmachari Linga named Ushnivi. 62) Yoginis offer their obsequiousness to Alakthak Linga by name Suvabhruk. 63) Siddha Yoginis worship Srikhanda Linga named Sahasraaksha. 64) Dakinis perform puja to Lingas made of Mamsa or Meat and call Siva by the name of Sumidhsha. 65) Manna Ganaas worship Annamaya Linga called Girisha. 66) Agasthya Muni worships Vreehimaya Linga to Siva named Sushanth. 67) Muni Devala made Yavamaya Linga and called Siva with the name of Pathi. 68) Valmiki Muni made a Linga of Valmikas and prayed to Chira Vasa. 69) Pratardan prays to Baana Linga named Hiranyabhuj. 70) Daityagana made Rayi made Siva Linga and prayed to Ugra. 71) Daanavas worship a Nishpaavaj Linga known as Dikpathi. 72) Baadal (Clouds) pray to Neeramaya (waterful) Lingas called Parjanya. 73) Yaksharaj made Maashamaya Linga and performed puja to Bhutapathi. 74) Pitruganas made Tilamaya (Sesame seeds) Linga and worshipped Siva as Vrishapathi. 75) Gouthama Muni worships Godhulimaya Linga named Gopathi. 76) Vanaprastha ganas display veneration to a phalamaya (full of fruits) Linga named Vrikshavrita 77) Karthikeya is highly devoted to Siva in the form of a stone Linga called Senanya 78) Ashtavatar Nag worshipped Dhanya linga called Madhyama. 79) Yagna Kartha prayed to Purusha Linga named Sthruva hasta. 80) Yama worships Kalaaya samaya Linga called Dhanvi. 81) Parasurama prays to Yavaankura Linga named Bhargava. 82) Pururava prays to Ghritamaya (Gheeful) Linga by name Bahurupa. 83) Mandhata paid admiration to a Sugary Linga by name Bahuyug. 84) The clan of Cows utilises a Dugdhamaya Linga (full of Milk) for paying their respects and sincere devotion to Nethra sahasrak. 85) Pathivrata Sthrees (Women devoted to their husbands) worship to Bhatrumaya Linga called Viswapati. 86) Nara and Narayana worship Siva in the form of Mounji Linga named Sahasra Sirsha. 87) Pruthu worships Thaaksharya Linga known as Sahasra Charan. 88) Birds pay their homage to Vyoma Linga in the name of Sarvatmaka.

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89) Prithivi prays to Gandhamaya Linga named as Dvithanu. 90) The entire Animal Kingdom prays to Bhasmamaya Linga known by the name of Maheswara. 91) Rishiganas perform Upasana to Jnanamaya Linga called Chirasthan. 92) Brahmanas do penance to Brahma Linga in the name of Siva as Jyeshtha. 93) Sesha Nag worships to Gorochanamaya Linga named Pashupathi. 94) Vasuki Nag prays to Visha (poison) Linga with the name of Shankara. 95) Takshaka Nag prays to Kaalakutamaya Linga called Bahurup. 96) Karkotaka Nag pays esteem to Halahalamaya Linga named Pingaksha. 97) Shringi prays to Vishamaya Linga by the name of Dhurjati. 98) Puthras (Sons) perform in the name of Pitrumaya Linga (Fathers) called Vishwarupa. 99) Siva Devi worships Parama maya Linga named Vyambak.100) Matsya and such other Jeevas pray to Shastramaya Linga named Vrishakapi. Phalasruti : Whoever recites Siva Sata Rudreeyam in the morning, the sins committed by the mind, tongue and action get vanished; diseases and fatigue get dissolved; fear and apprehension evaporate; and worries and anxiety disappear. Those who utter the hundred names of Parama Siva and make Salutations to Him as many times would instantly secure mental peace and contentment. Skandas Vijaya Sthambh (Tower of Victory) and Siddha Saptaka Since Kumareswar Complex was set up already, Skanda Deva agreed to the request of Devas to put up a Victory Tower named Viswanandak and before it a Siva Linga. Skanda put in His Shakti and created Patala Ganga in a Well atop the Victory Tower, where on Magha Krishna Paksha Chaturdasi, human beings would take bath in that Well, offer Pitru Tarpans and worship to Vijaya Sthambheswar with Flowers and Sandal Paste; these acts would be as significant as Gaya Shraddh and Vajapeya Yagna Phal respectively. In fact, the Tarpan and Worship could as well be repeated every Pournima and Amavasya in the Mahi Sagar Sangam fo