--> Skip to main content

Posts

Showing posts from November, 2017


Birth of Duryodhana – The Story of the Mysterious Birth of Duryodhana

Duryodhana is the chief antagonist in the Mahabharata. He was a great warrior but filled with ego, arrogance and wickedness. The reason for his evil character is perhaps due to the mysterious circumstances in which he was born. The birth of Duryodhana was from a lump of cold flesh that was delivered by Gandhari. Dhritarashtra’s wife Gandhari had conceived but the delivery did not happen for two years. One day she got the news that Kunti, wife of Pandu (younger brother of Dhritarashtra), had delivered a son. Gandhari grew jealous. Filled with jealousy and anger, she pressed her womb so forcefully that a large lump of flesh came out. Sage Vyasa who was present in Hastinapura got to know about the unfortunate incident. He advised the lump to be cut into one hundred pieces and deposited in jars of ghee. The remnant piece was put into another jar. In due course of time, the jars burst and a hundred boys and a girl came out. The first one to come out of the pot was named Du

Swayamvara Pushpanjali Pooja – For Early Marriage

Swayamvara pushpanjali pooja is performed by those Hindus who are facing problems in marriage. Those people who are facing various difficulties in getting married perform the puja along with other prayers and rituals. Swayamvara pushpanjali puja is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati and is performed for early marriage. Benefits of Swayamvara Pushpanjali Pooja It helps with early marriage. Those involved in love – romantic relationship will have marriage held. Desire fulfillment regarding marriage matters. Monday and Rohini Nakshatra Swayamvara Pushpanjali Pooja, which is performed on a Monday when there is Rohini Nakshatram, is highly meritorious. Rohini is the nakshatra of Bhagavan Sri Krishna and when it joins with Monday, the results are manifold. How long – Offerings - Mantras Along with the puja, the person should observe Monday fasting, visiting a Shiva-Parvati shrine on Monday and Uma-Maheshwara Puja. White color flowers should be offered to

Imbalance In Life Is Because We Are Far Removed From Nature

When something goes wrong in life, know that it is due to imbalance. There needs to be a balance in life. This can only happen when we are ready to be part of nature by embracing the whole. Focusing only on one area of life and neglecting others invites trouble. Balance should be there on the inside and outside. Most of us are very careful with our external interactions. But this carefulness is missing in the internal interactions. Thoughts and feelings should be balanced.   The best way to avoid imbalance in life is to have a simple life. Breathe properly. Have good healthy routine. Wake up early. There should be emotional and physical discipline. When the mind is disturbed, concentrate on your breathing. Inhale deeply and exhale slowly. A peaceful and happy life is only possible when there is proper understanding of life. The feeling of oneness with universe is necessary for it. To accept that I am part of nature and I am bound by the laws of nature is necessary. When this

Bandhu Bhava in Hindu Astrology

Bandhu Bhava as per Hindu astrology is the house indicating relations in a person’s horoscope. The house, which stands for brothers and sisters, is referred to as Sahaja Bhava (born together). Bandhu Bhava is examined for indications about relatives and relationships with them. It is the fourth house in a horoscope. A strong placement of Budha (mercury) indicates respect of relatives. If Guru (Jupiter or Brishaspati) resides in the fourth house then the person will have highly placed relatives. If the Lord of the fourth house is malefic, then relatives will suffer, the person will be disliked by relatives and there will hatred in the family.

Swami Vimuktananda – On Consummation Of Spiritual Practice

A person may at first take some external thing as an object of his meditation, but he should afterwards think of it as existing only in the form of the mind; and lastly the mind also should be reduced to Brahman which is pure consciousness. Then alone one is said to have reached the highest goal. By constant practice of contemplation and discrimination there dawns on the mind of the aspirant the knowledge that Brahman alone is and nothing else exists. Thus the ignorance which has so long deluded him by projecting the world of duality, comes to an end. Thereafter the mind also, which by destroying ignorance has brought the aspirant so close to Brahman, vanishes like the fire which after consuming its fuel is itself extinguished, then Brahman alone shines in Its own glory. After long practice, the aspirant at first realizes, while in Samadhi, the presence of Brahman which pervades the inner and the outer world. But this is not all. He should then hold on this Brahmic consciousnes

Story Of Birth Of Sage Durvasa And Arrow Of Shiva

There are three different stories in the Puranas regarding the birth of Sage Durvasa. The only common factor in all the three stories is that Lord Shiva is responsible for the birth of the Sage. One such story suggests that Durvasa was born from an arrow. Once, Shiva became so furious seeing the Adharma practiced by demons. His anger took the shape of an arrow and annihilated the demons. People were satisfied and happy with end of the rule of demons. But the arrow could not be stopped by humans, saints, or Devas. If not controlled, the arrow would destroy the universe. Devas prayed to Shiva to call back the arrow. Shiva then intervened and took back the arrow. It returned to the lap of Shiva. The arrow was then born as Sage Durvasa. As the arrow represents anger, Sage Durvasa became a fierce teacher who cursed anyone who crossed him.

Donating Hanuman Chalisa Book on Tuesday

Worship of Hanuman is gaining popularity in this Kali Yuga because he is Sankat Mochan – one who can help us out of all types of troubles. There are numerous ways to please Hanuman. One important method is to donate Hanuman Chalisa book on Tuesday. Hanuman Chalisa was composed by Goswami Tulsidas Ji to please Hanuman. It is written in simple language. Donating 11 books with Hanuman Chalisa help a devotee in overcoming troubles and fulfillment of desires. Donating the book earns the blessing of Hanuman. As more and more people read the Hanuman Chalisa donated by him, the person will be blessed with wealth, happiness, progress and prosperity.

Which Car Number is Lucky For Me?

Is there a way to find out which car number is lucky for me? Many people ask this question. Suppose the car number is 241821. Then to find out whether it is lucky or not you need to add the number. 2 + 4 + 1 +8 + 2 + 2 = 19 1 + 9 = 10 1+ 0 = 1 So now you need to know whether the number 1 is lucky. One One is a lucky number. It indicates auspicious beginning. The number is associated with Sun God (Surya). Health, wealth and protection are associated with the number. There will be progress. Two Two is an average number. There is no major luck associated with it. It symbolically represents two different aspects. If the two can join and work together then there will be progress. But we all know how difficult it is for two individuals to strive together and achieve perfection. The number is associated with relationship. The number is good only if you have a strong and reliable partner. Three There is considered highly auspicious in many cultures. It has divin

Story of Goddess Mookambika - Information on Mookambika Temple

Along with the story of Goddess Mookambika, the article provides a complete information on Kollur Mookambika Temple along with details about Kodachadri mountain range, Ganapathi Cave, Souparnika River, Sarvajna Peetha and Chitramoola. Story of Goddess Mookambika is found in the Skanda Purana. The ancient Purana narrates that a demon named Kaumasura performed intense austerities and was blessed with the darshan of Mahadev Shiva. The demon intended to ask immense powers and immortality as boon. But Goddess Saraswati as Vagdevi robbed the demon of his speech. The demon was thus unable to ask the boon and from that day he came to be known as Mookasura.  Through the austerities performed, Mookasura had attained immense strength. He used this strength to attack the Devas and human beings. To put an end to the demon, Goddess Shakti, Lakshmi and Saraswati combined into one form and annihilated the demon Mookasura. Devi then merged into the Shivling at Kolluru.  Ev

Master Yogi Bhola Nathji Teachings On Miracles In Hindu Religions

Teachings on miracles in Hindu religion by Master Yogi Bhola Nathji. A miracle is an incident or action of which we do not know the cause nor the end. Ordinary intelligence fails to understand it. Science is left wondering. Our ordinary education and experiences have prescribed the limitations of our knowledge in this short life. If any 'miracle' happens through the instrumentality of any individual, we say, this is contrary to the Laws of Nature. Miracles which we believe to be contrary to the Laws of Nature, belong to a field of activity which is unknown to us-so far. Why are we startled even at the mention of the word 'miracle' when the whole universe which we see before us, is in itself a great miracle? Why, then, if anything unknown before happens, should we start wondering? Why should we say it is impossible? Miracles belong to a stage in the path of progress towards spiritual life, which is more dangerous. They are apt to divert genuine seekers after Truth

Hanuman Vadamala Count - Story - Significance of Vada Mala for Hanuman

There are no written rules regarding Hanuman Vadamala count. You can offer any number of Vadas depending on your health and financial capacity. Hanuman is usually offered 1, 8, 16, 51, 108 or 1008 Vadas. You can also offer 10008 or 100008… Forget the count, offer it with devotion. All that matters is devotion. Significance of Vada Mala for Hanuman Vada is a food item, which is part of South Indian cuisine. It is made using Urad Dal or Black Gram. Hundreds of Vada are strewn together to make a garland and it is then offered to Hanuman. Significance of Vada Mala is that offering it to Hanuman helps in overcoming Rahu Dosha. The story behind making Vada Mala is associated with Rahu Navgraha. Rahu had given the boon to Hanuman that whoever offers Urad Dal or Black Gram to Hanuman will not have the adverse effect associated with the positioning of Rahu in horoscope. People therefore prepare Vada Mala and offer to Hanuman. Hanuman Vadamala Story Vadamala is an importa

You suffer when you hold on – You prosper when you let go

Holding on and not letting go is a big problem of our times. In holding on there is only suffering but when there is letting go there is freedom, happiness, growth and prosperity. Parents hold on to children and do not let them pursue their dreams. Lovers hold on and suffer lifelong. Holding on is weakness and letting go is strength. There is peace, growth, prosperity and happiness in letting go. The holding on is not limited to people, we also hold on to anger, hurt, grudge, hatred, revenge and many other negativities. They weaken us from within. This weakness soon reflects on our mental, emotional and physical health.  Some of us go into long periods of silence after a fight. This is not positive silence. This is a negative silence. This silence is like a volcano. Lot of hatred, abuse and negative activities are building up. We are holding on to the feeling of hurt and anger. It is not doing us any help. Let out the steam. Talk things out. When you are angry, just shout out a

About Hindu God Pretraj Sarkar – Story of Pretraj Sarkar - King of Ghosts

Pretraj Sarkar is a Hindu God closely associated with Lord Hanuman. He is the King of Ghosts and he is also sometimes mistaken as Yamraj, the Hindu God of Death. The story of Pretraj Sarkar begins with Hanuman burning down Lanka. When Hanuman burned Lanka, Rishi Neelasur attempted to put down the fire using his magic. But none of his magic worked on the fire started by Hanuman. Lanka continued burning. Rishi Neelasur then realized that Hanuman was no ordinary being. He then stood before Hanuman and asked him to reveal his true identity. Hanuman told Rishi Neelasur that he was just a devotee of Lord Ram. He also told him that he was not able to extinguish the fire because it had the blessing of Bhagavan Sri Ram. Rishi Neelasur then asked to take him to Bhagavan Sri Ram. He had his wish fulfilled after the defeat of Ravana in the Ramayana. After the departure of Bhagavan Sri Ram from earth, Hanuman appointed Rishi Neelasur as his minister and lieutenant to spread the

Sapinda in Hinduism – Sapinda Relationship and Funeral Offering

Sapinda in Hinduism is of two types one is Sapinda Relationship and another is the funeral offering. Sapinda Relationship Sapinda is the term used to define those who have a common ancestry from the father’s or mother’s side. Sapinda Relationship is based on Blood relationship Marriage Inheritance of property Blood relationship Seven generations in a family are governed by Sapinda blood relationship on the paternal side for seven years and on maternal side for five years. Sapinda Marriage In the case of a marital relationship, seven generations on the paternal side and five on the maternal side are governed by sapinda relationship. For example, if I get married to a girl who is the offspring of one of the seven generations on the paternal side then I have a sapinda relationship with my wife. Similarly, if I get married to a girl who is the offspring of one of the five generations on the maternal side then also I have a sapinda relationship with my wife.

Nyaogradhashayin form of Vishnu

Nyaogradhashayin form of Vishnu is associated with Vishnu as a child floating on nyagrodha leaf. Nyaogradhashayin form – the child Krishna floating on ficus leaf – in Hinduism is a symbolic representation of the first form of life on earth (or the only form of life). As per Hindu tradition, at the end of one cycle of creation the heat produced by Surya, the sun god, reduces all that is on earth into ashes. This continues for eight thousand yugas. Then Vayu, the wind god, blows relentlessly for many years and huge clouds are formed. It rains incessantly creating a great flood – deluge. The entire earth remains under water for millions of years. On this water lies, Child form of Vishnu (Krishna) on Ficus Leaf  known as nyagrodha. This wonderful incident is mentioned in the Markandeya Purana. Markandeya Rishi was blessed that he will be able to witness the great deluge. The Rishi saw destruction all around. Water submerged everything. For millions of years there was only w

Karikkakom Sree Chamundi Temple

Karikkakom Sree Chamundi Devi Temple is located about seven kilometers east of Kizhakkekotta in Thiruvananthapuram. The shrine is dedicated to Mother Goddess Shakti who is worshipped in the form of Goddess Chamundi. Karikkakom Sree Chamundi Temple History It is believed that the place had a Kalari of a group of soldiers of erstwhile Travancore kingdom. Therefore the place was known as Kalarikkakom and got abbreviated to Karikkakom. Some scholars are of the view the the place where the present temple is located was a Vayal - known as Kari in local language. So the place got the name Karikkakom from the vayal or kari. Those who committed crimes or were suspects had to prove their innocence in the temple through the procedure of Satyam Thellikkal.  People who have committed sin get redemption after offering prayers here. In ancient times, the temple was a place where justice was delivered and punishments meted out. Three Forms Of Chamundeshwari In The Same Vigraham The deity worship

Shanti Parihara – Remedial Measure to Overcome Horoscope Related Problems

In Hindu religion, Shani Parihara is the remedial measures adopted to overcome bad effects created in life by the negative positions of planets in a horoscope. Navgrahas or planets occupy a favorable or unfavorable position in a horoscope depending on our previous karma. There are mainly three types of Shanti Parihara: Performing homa or yajna Dana or donations Visiting temples, sacred places and taking bath in sacred rivers and sacred water bodies. The other Shanti Pariharas are Yantra Mantra Tantra Gemstones – wearing of Navratnas In Yantra, a person wears or keeps at home or workplace a two or three-dimensional representation of mantras or mystic syllables. The mantra is chanting the beej mantras and other prayers dedicated to various deities. Tantra involves complicated procedures performed by an adept practitioner. Shanti Parihara is usually performed on the birthday or on death anniversary. It can be performed at home, temple, sacred place or on the

These Bad Omens in Home Signal Financial Problems as Per Hindu Beliefs

As per Hindu beliefs, certain bad omens and accidents in home signal soon to appear financial problems. Recurring of certain accidents and falls in home is an indication that there will money related problems in near future. Leaking water tap in the house. Broken mirror. Container of oil falling down and oil floating. Vessel with mustards seeds accidently falling down and spreading on floor. Leaking house. Loss of gold ornaments. Constant fight among family members. Clock which is not working. Photos, idols and painting of Gods and Goddess, which are not maintained and are filled with dust. Coins falling down repeatedly. Collecting junk in home. You should make sure that the above said things do not happen in your home.

For Permanent Happiness Realize The Reason Behind Happiness

We all want permanent or everlasting happiness. But the happiness that we get in this world is transient. So how can we get permanent or everlasting happiness, which is referred to, in scriptures as Supreme Bliss. Happiness, which we get from an external source, will not last for longtime. First we have to realize this. We have to accept the fact that worldly happiness is like the dewdrop, which disappears with the arrival of sun. But what is that source behind the dewdrop and sun. That reason which causes dewdrop and sun at the same time is the abode of Supreme Bliss. Understand the reason behind this universe. Then we will realize the reason behind happiness. Once this is cracked, permanent happiness is all ours. www.hindu-blog.com Abhilash

Ayyappa as Kaliyuga Varada – Why Ayyappa is known as Kaliyuga Varadan?

One among the numerous names of Hindu God Ayyappa is Kaliyuga Varada. The popular belief is that Ayyappa protects the devotees in Kali Yuga until the arrival of the Kalki Avatar of Sri Vishnu. This is the reason why Ayyappa is also known as Kaliyuga Varadan . Like Kalki, the vehicle, or Vahana, of Ayyappa is a horse. Kalki, the tenth incarnation of Sri Vishnu, will put an end to the present cycle of creation and usher in the changes on earth required for the next cycle of creation. In Kali Yuga, Ayyappa protects those devotees who follow the path of Dharma. He is Kaliyuga Varadan. He annihilates Adharma and makes sure that those devotees who observe Dharma attain Moksha. As per Hinduism, Kali Yuga, a dark age of discord, is the last age in a cycle of creation. Adharma will flourish. There will be evil all around. Relationships will be fragile.   But in this dark age, people wishing to Moksha (liberation) can achieve it just by chanting the name of his personal deity.  Ka

Kaikottikali Dance – History and Importance in Kerala – Especially During Onam

Kaikottikali literally means clap dance. It is a folk dance form performed in Kerala especially during the Onam festival (August – September). The origin of the dance form is unknown but when we delve in history, we realize that it is one of the most ancient forms of dance in the region. It is of more importance in the northern parts of Kerala. When is the Kaikottikali Dance Performed? During Onam festival mostly in North Kerala. Kettukalyanam – a girl’s symbolic marriage ritual (now not so common) Tirantu Kalyanam – on a girl’s first menustration. On birthdays of elderly people (now very rare) During college and school cultural festivals How is Kaikottikali Performed? A group of women or teenage girls dances around a traditional Kerala lamp to the rhythm of the songs they sing. Traditional Kerala Kasavu sari is worn on the occasion. Hair is adorned with jasmine flowers. Today, there are several changes to the dance form. A major change is that women dance to

Sanatana Dharma Does Not Have Any Dichotomy Of Divinity

In Sanatana Dharma, everything is deified. Sanatana Dharma does not have any dichotomy of divinity. What is the dichotomy of divinity or duality of divinity? It is the belief that there is something divine and that there is something that is not divine. That there is a God and that there is a Devil. Sanatana Dharma does not believe in that. All the traditions of Sanatana Dharma profess that everything that we see is the manifestation of the One Divine principle. This is the reason why true followers of Sanatana Dharma are at ease in worshipping Goddess Kali and Goddess Lakshmi. Goddess Kali is unimaginably ferocious with garlands of head and fingers around her neck; Goddess Lakshmi is unimaginably beautiful and she wears wonderful ornaments. Shiva roams around with snakes in his body and lives in the graveyard. Vishnu is handsome and dressed like an emperor. Source - Prabuddha Bharata January 2016 Issue

Shiv Tandav in Dream – Meaning and Interpretation of Shiva Dancing in Dream

As per Hindu religion, seeing Shiv Tandav in dream will bring positive changes in life. The meaning of seeing Shiva dancing is that the person will see relief in financial problems.  In Hinduism, there is an ancient scripture known as Swapna Shastra, which gives interpretation and meaning of various dreams. Those who have dream of Shiva Tandava should make offering of water to Shiva in a nearby temple. Seeing Shiva dancing also means that success will only come through hard work – there are no shortcuts. But one thing is sure there will be success if you are ready to work hard with determination. Shiva’s dance is tandava, energetic and virile… The damaru or drum in his upper right stands for creative sound. The fire in the upper left hand for desctruction The hand, which depicts the pose of abhaya mudra, is for boon, peace, content and maintenance. The foot held aloft means release. If you see foot raised then it can mean destruction. Such dreams are usually seen by people w

Ayyappa Mala Procedure – How to Wear Ayyappa Mala to Visit Sabarimala Temple?

Devotees visiting the Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple should compulsorily wear the Ayyappa Mala. This Mala is worn after beginning the Vratam to visit the Sabarimala Shrine. Usually, the Ayyappa Mala is worn in a local Ayyappa temple or any other temple near the house. Those who are unable to do it at a temple or holy place wear the Mala at home in the Puja room or area. The Mantra chanted while wearing the Ayyappa Mala is Jnaanamudraam shaastrumudraam gurumudraam namaamyaham Vanamudraam shuddhamudraam rudramudraam namaamyaham Shaantamudraam satyamudraam vratamudraam namaamyaham Shabaryaashrama satyena mudraam paatu sadaapi mae Gurudakshinayaa poorvam tasyaanugraha kaarine Sharanaagata mudraakhyam tvan mudraam dhaarayaamyaham Chinmudraam khechareemudraam bhadramudraam namaamyaham Shabaryaachala mudraayai namastubhyam namo namaha Ayyappa malas are usually made of Rudraksha beads, Tulsi, Pavizham (small gem stones), Raktha Chandanam, Uduppi Tulsi, or Black Pav

Sanmata – Six Sub Faiths in Hinduism Established by Adi Shankaracharya

Sanmata is the six sub faiths in Hinduism established by Adi Shankaracharya. These are six alternative ways of worship – personal gods. The six sub faiths are: Shaivam (Shiva) Vaishnavism (Vishnu, including is all avatars) Shaktam (Shakti, Devi, Durga and all the divine forms of Mother Goddess) Ganapatyam (Ganesha) Sauram (Surya) Kumaram (Skanda or Muruga) The six forms represent Saguna Brahman – with qualities, aspects, powers, name and forms. Symbolically Shiva represents knowledge; Vishnu lordship; Shakti exemplifies power; Ganesha strength; Kumara symbolizes valor and Surya splendor. Prapancha Sara Tantra – In this text written by Adi Shankaracharya, he gave detail description of murtis of each of the six deities, their mantras, sequence of worship and other details. The conflicts among the various religious sects were settled through the Sanmata concept. Worship of personal god is given importance by Adi Shankaracharya.

Purnima Vrat – Fasting on Full Moon in Hinduism - How to Perform or Observe Purnima Vrat?

Purnima or Poonam is an auspicious day in Hinduism. Poornima is the full moon day and many important rituals and festivals takes place on full moon day. In South India , the day is known as Pournami. Upvaas (Fasting) is observed on this day by some people. Here is a brief idea on how to perform purnima vrat. It must be noted here that the vrat is not performed by certain communities. The procedure and fasting methods vary from region to region. The Purnima Fasting begins at Sunrise and ends after sighting the Moon. Most people only take food after seeing the moon or after evening prayers. In some places in South India , the Pournami Vratam is dedicated to Devi, Mother Goddess. Special pujas are performed in temples on Poornima day including the Pournami Pooja. Satyanarayana or Satya Narayana Puja is another important Pooja performed on the Purnima day. To Which God is Purnima Vrat Dedicated? Purnima Vrat is dedicated to Mother Goddess in many regions.

What is Satapatha Brahmana in Hinduism?

Satapatha Brahmana is a section of the Vedas and it deals with religious rites and procedures. It is found in the Shukla Yajurveda. The name Satapatha because it contains 100 lessons.  It is believed that the Satapatha Brahmana was composed around 2000 BC. Satapatha Brahmana is a storehouse of knowledge and wisdom. It narrates about sacrifices like Darsa-Pournamasa, Vajapyea, Rajasuya, Cayana, Saturamani and Ashwamedha. The character of the sacrifices and various other aspects of sacrifices are dealt in detail. A complete list of things needed and how to perform a sacrifice is found in the text. A few chapter headings from performing Darsapurnamaseshti: Vow of Abstinence Preparation of offerings Leading forth of Pranitah Taking out of rice for the cakes Preparation of strainers and consecration of the rice by sprinkling the lustral water Husking and grinding of the rice Putting on the potsherds Preparation and baking of the cakes Preparation of altar Samishayugas,

Behavior Of The Man Who Has Gone Beyond Gunas

The river makes a noise as it is moving, but this noise comes to an end when it joins the ocean. To the pillar in the house, the passing of the night and the dawning of the day are both the same. Similarly are happiness and misery to the Soul inside the body. To the man, who is fast asleep, it does not matter whether his bed companion is a fair beauty or a serpent. To him, who is absorbed in Brahman, happiness and misery do not matter. Cow dung and gold are the same to him. A jewel and a stone are the same to him. His sight has found equanimity. Even if heavens were to walk to his door or a tiger came on his threshold to eat him, his absorption in Self will not be disturbed. A dead body cannot be made alive again. A dead seed cannot sprout.  So is his steady intelligence, which cannot be detracted. If he gets homage from people in the belief that he is Brahman or if he gets insulted by them in the belief that he is unclean, he is indifferent. Praise and insult appear t

Valapattanam Kalarivathukkal Bhagavathy Devi Temple - Festival - Timings – History

Kalarivathukkal Devi Temple is located at Valapattanam near Azhikode in Kannur District in Kerala. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Bhagavathy. This is one of the most popular and powerful Shakti shrine in North Kerala. The annual festival in the temple is held from Kathika nakshatra to Pooram nakshatram day in Meena Masam. This is a Bhadrakali temple located near Valapattanam river,. It is the family shrine of Chirakkal Royal Family. A fierce form of Bhadrakali is worshipped here. Kalarivathukkal Bhagavathy is considered as the mother of the ancient martial art Kalaripayattu and hence the name. The deity of the Kalarivathukkal shrine is the fierce form of Bhadrakali or Porkkali Bhagavathy, the goddess in her warlike aspect, ensconced within the central sanctum facing West. Adjacent to this is the sanctum of Lord Shiva, facing East. Mathrusaala or the shrine for Sapta Mathrukkal faces north, and houses Brahmani, Vaishnavi, Shankari, Kaumari, Varahi, Chamundi, Indrani, as also Veera