Akhilandeshwari is a Hindu goddess who is primarily worshiped in the southern parts of India, especially in the state of Tamil Nadu. The name "Akhilandeshwari" is derived from Sanskrit words: "Akhila," meaning entire, and "Anda," meaning universe. Therefore, Akhilandeshwari is often interpreted as the goddess of the entire universe. Yet another meaning is “Akhila” means the universe, “Anda” means cosmic egg, and “Ishwari” means the divine mother. Therefore, Goddess, the divine mother who protects the entire universe in her womb (cosmic egg), is known as “Akhilandeshwari”.
She is considered a form of Adi Parashakti, the primordial
cosmic energy and the divine feminine principle. Akhilandeshwari is also
associated with the concept of "Akhanda," which means unbroken or
undivided. This aspect of the goddess signifies her transcendental and eternal
nature, beyond the limitations of time and space.
In some traditions, Akhilandeshwari is depicted as riding a
crocodile, symbolizing the conqueror of duality and turbulence. Devotees
believe that worshiping Akhilandeshwari can help overcome obstacles, conflicts,
and challenges in life, promoting inner strength and resilience.
It's important to note that regional variations exist in the
worship and tradition of Hindu goddesses, and different communities may have
distinct interpretations of Akhilandeshwari.
Story Of Goddess Akhilandeshwari
Once upon a time, in the celestial abode of Mount Kailash,
the great Mahadeva Shiva engaged in deep penance for the welfare of the world.
However, Goddess Parvati, known for her playful nature, decided to mock Shiva's
austere practices. Unbeknownst to her, Shiva took her jest seriously and
decided to teach her a lesson.
In response to Parvati's mockery, Shiva directed her to
descend to the Earth and undertake penance herself. Following Shiva's
instructions, Parvati assumed the form of Akilandeswari and chose the tranquil Jambu
Forest as the site for her penance. Here, she decided to create a sacred
lingam, known as the Appu Lingam or Water Lingam, using the pure waters of the
Kaveri River, also known as Ponni River.
Under the shade of the Venn Naaval tree, Parvati, in the
form of Akilandeswari, fervently began her worship of the lingam. The devotion
and penance of the goddess were so profound that Mahadeva Shiva, pleased with
her sincerity, eventually manifested before her. Shiva, standing facing west,
imparted to Akilandeswari the divine knowledge of Shiva Jnana, guiding her
towards spiritual enlightenment.
During this encounter, Akilandeswari, in her quest for
wisdom, received Upadesa (lessons) from Shiva. It is said that she faced east
while receiving these teachings. This sacred interaction between Shiva and
Akilandeswari is considered a significant moment in Hindu tradition,
symbolizing the divine exchange of knowledge and devotion.
To honor this divine event, the tradition continues at the Jambukeswarar
Temple in Thiruvanaikaval in Tamil Nadu dedicated to Akilandeswari and
Jambukeswara Shiva. During Uchi Kala Puja, around noon, the temple priest,
representing Akilandeswari, dresses as a woman and performs rituals in the
sanctum of Jambukeswara Shiva. The priest venerates both Shiva and Kamadhenu,
the divine cow, as it is believed that Akilandeswari herself, in the form of a
priest, worships Shiva and the sacred cow during this time.
This symbolic reenactment of the divine episode serves as a
reminder of the significance of devotion, humility, and the pursuit of
knowledge in the spiritual journey. The story encapsulates the essence of Hindu
tradition, emphasizing the divine connection between Shiva and Goddess Parvati
in their various forms.