Key Aspects of Vishnumaya Worship
Devotion and Faith: Like any form of Hindu worship, praying to Vishnumaya requires deep devotion, sincerity, and faith in the deity's power. Vishnumaya is seen as a protector, so approaching the deity with a clear heart and a pure mind is crucial.
Vishnumaya’s Appearance: Vishnumaya is often depicted riding a buffalo, holding weapons like a bow or trident, signifying strength and the ability to protect. The deity is usually visualized in dark or fierce forms, symbolizing the ability to destroy negativity.
Temples and Shrines: The worship of Vishnumaya is usually performed in specific temples dedicated to the deity, with famous ones in Kerala such as the Vishnumaya Kuttichathan Temple in Thrissur. However, you can also set up a simple altar at home to worship Vishnumaya.
Simple Prayer to Vishnumaya
Here is a simple prayer you can recite daily:
“Om Vishnumayaya Namaha”
This mantra can be chanted to invoke Vishnumaya's blessings. It is believed to bring protection and relief from difficulties.
Another prayer:
“Swami Vishnumaya, Chathana Swami, Raksha Maam”
Meaning: "Lord Vishnumaya, Lord Chathan, Protect Me."
You can chant these prayers at least 108 times in the morning and evening for maximum effect.
Puja (Worship) Steps to Pray to Vishnumaya
Here are simple steps to perform a puja dedicated to Vishnumaya:
Purify the Area: Before beginning, clean the area where you will perform the puja. You can sprinkle holy water (Gangajal) to purify the surroundings.
Set Up the Altar:
- Place a picture or idol of Vishnumaya on the altar.
- Light a lamp (preferably with sesame oil) and offer incense (agarbatti).
- Arrange flowers like jasmine or marigold to offer to the deity.
Offerings: Vishnumaya is fond of offerings like betel leaves, bananas, coconut, and jaggery. You can also offer a garland made of these items.
Chanting Mantras: Recite the following mantras to invoke the deity’s presence:
- Om Vishnumayaya Namaha (108 times)
- Om Chathanaya Swaha (108 times)
These mantras are potent in calling upon the divine powers of Vishnumaya to protect and guide the devotee.
Prayers and Request for Protection: After offering the mantras, close your eyes, and pray sincerely for protection from all harm, evil spirits, or negative energies. Ask Vishnumaya to remove obstacles in your life.
Arati: Conclude the puja by waving the lit lamp in front of the deity while chanting “Om Vishnumayaya Namaha.” Offer fruits and sweets as prasad (consecrated food).
Receive Blessings: End the ritual by bowing down and praying for strength and guidance. Distribute the prasad among family members and consume it for blessings.
Ideal Gods and Goddesses to Worship Alongside Vishnumaya
While Vishnumaya is a powerful deity in itself, devotees may also worship the following gods or goddesses to enhance the protection and power of their prayers:
Lord Shiva: As Vishnumaya is considered an aspect of Lord Shiva’s energy, it is ideal to offer prayers to Shiva alongside Vishnumaya for divine protection and guidance.
Durga or Kali: Worshipping these goddesses of protection and fierce energy complements Vishnumaya’s role in safeguarding the devotee from harm and evil.
Lord Ganesha: Begin your prayers by invoking Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, before proceeding with the Vishnumaya puja.
Naga Devata: Vishnumaya is often associated with serpent energy. Offering prayers to Naga Devata (serpent deities) can enhance the protective aspects of the puja.
Mantras for Vishnumaya
Here are a few more mantras that are specific to Vishnumaya worship:
Vishnumaya Gayatri Mantra:
“Om Chathanaya Vidmahe Vishnumayaya Dheemahi Tanno Chathan Prachodayat”
Translation: "Om, we meditate on Chathan, the one with divine illusion (Vishnumaya). May that Chathan inspire and enlighten us."Vishnumaya Shlokam:
“Jaya Vishnumaya Mahakaya, Sarva Dushtah Nashaya Namah Swaha”
This mantra praises Vishnumaya’s ability to destroy all evil forces and provide protection.
Rare Facts about Vishnumaya
Association with Lord Shiva: Vishnumaya is often considered a child of Lord Shiva, born from his union with a woman of tribal origin, symbolizing the deity’s connection with both divine and earthly forces.
Buffalo as Vahana (Vehicle): Vishnumaya is depicted riding a buffalo, which is considered a rare feature in Hindu iconography. This signifies control over animal instincts and power over primal energies.
Protection against Black Magic: Vishnumaya is believed to have strong powers to ward off evil spirits, black magic, and curses, making the deity particularly popular among those who feel threatened by malevolent forces.
Worship in Tribal Communities: Vishnumaya worship has deep roots in tribal and folk traditions, and many rituals associated with this deity are still practiced in rural and tribal parts of Kerala.
Relevant Facts About Vishnumaya Worship
Astrological Influence: Vishnumaya worship is often recommended for those facing malefic effects of planetary movements, particularly Rahu and Ketu (considered serpent planets). Praying to Vishnumaya is said to pacify these planetary influences.
Vishnumaya in Tantra: Vishnumaya is also linked with tantric practices in Kerala, where special rituals are performed to harness the deity’s powerful energy for protection, prosperity, and control over adversaries.
Festivals: The annual festivals dedicated to Vishnumaya are vibrant and filled with dance, music, and offerings. They often include the performance of Theyyam, a ritual dance form in Kerala, to invoke the presence of Vishnumaya.
By regularly worshipping Vishnumaya with devotion and following the above steps, devotees can experience protection from negative energies, improvement in life circumstances, and overall well-being. The strength of this deity lies in its ability to destroy evil and shield devotees from harm.