In this up close and deeply personal episode, the final of Season 2 of ‘ಓತ್ಲಾ in ಕನ್ನಡ’, I open up about my journey with the Durga Saptashati Vratha and the obstacles I faced along the way. This isn’t just a recount of rituals and texts; it’s a reflection on my own spiritual path, the challenges that tested my resolve, and the profound realizations that came from these trials. I share how this sacred journey has transformed me, revealing deep truths and fostering a closer connection with Devi. As I bring this season to a close, I express my heartfelt gratitude to Mrs. Puttamma, whose love made this entire journey possible. I also want to thank you, my listeners, for being a part of this journey with me—your support and encouragement have been invaluable.

ಸುರಥವೈಶ್ಯರಿಗೆ ದೇವಿಯಿಂದ ವರಪ್ರದಾನ - Chapter 13 - Durga Saptashati

Description

In this concluding chapter of the Durga Saptashati, Maharaja Suratha and Vaishya Samadhi both seek Devi Chandika’s divine blessings. Suratha, who had previously faced numerous hardships, receives prosperity and fulfillment of his desires through her grace. Vaishya Samadhi, who had also devotedly prayed to Devi, finds his own devotion rewarded. The chapter beautifully wraps up the narrative, underscoring the power of sincere worship and the ultimate granting of divine boons by Devi Chandika.

In this sacred chapter, also known as Bhagavati Vākyam, Devi Chandika herself elaborates on the ways to earn her divine favor. She outlines the practices and methods for worshiping her, stressing the importance of sincere devotion. Devi Chandika describes the benefits of such worship, including the attainment of peace and spiritual bliss. She assures that those who follow her guidance will experience her blessings. The chapter ends with Devi’s divine presence receding, leaving behind her profound instructions on achieving harmony and fulfillment through dedicated worship.

In this deeply personal episode, I explore Chapter 11 of the Durga Saptashati, known as the Narayani Stuti. This chapter is particularly special to me, not only because it’s my favorite but also due to a striking moment of synchronicity. As I began recording, I noticed it was exactly 11:11 on my clock, and this episode was the 11th note on my voice memo app. The alignment felt profoundly meaningful as I delved into the verses of this chapter.

Growing up, my mother taught me several stotras from this chapter, which became a cherished part of my childhood. The Narayani Stuti is a beautiful hymn where the devas express their deep gratitude and reverence for Devi Ambika’s divine intervention and grace. As we journey through these verses, I share my personal reflections and how these hymns have shaped my understanding of devotion. Join me in celebrating the divine strength and compassion of Devi Ambika, and experience the devotional beauty of the Narayani Stuti.

In this episode, I explore Chapter 10 of the Durga Saptashati. With Nishumbha vanquished, Shumbha is left to confront Devi Ambika. Enraged and defiant, Shumbha taunts Devi Ambika, questioning if she will continue to hide behind her other forms and their powers. Devi Ambika, seated in Himachala, reveals that all the Matrikas and their powers are expressions of her own divine essence. As all these forms merge into her, Devi Ambika unleashes her full power and destroys Shumbha with her trishula. This chapter concludes with Devi Ambika fulfilling the promise she made to the devas, granting their boon to destroy Shumbha and Nishumbha, and restoring peace to the cosmos.

In this episode, I explore Chapter 9 of the Durga Saptashati. After the fall of Raktabīja, Nishumbha, driven by rage, leads a fierce onslaught against Devi Durga. For the first time, Devi Ambika rises from her seat in Himachala and joins the battlefield. The combat is intense, with Nishumbha attacking relentlessly. Devi Durga, supported by Kali and the Ashta-Matrikas, counters his fury with divine strength. She ultimately kills Nishumbha with her trishula. To everyone’s astonishment, a powerful being emerges from Nishumbha’s heart, but Devi Durga swiftly beheads this new foe. This chapter highlights Devi Ambika’s decisive intervention and her role in re-establishing cosmic order.

In this episode, I explore Chapter 8 of the Durga Saptashati, a pivotal moment where Devi Ambika, still not engaged in battle, sends her husband Shiva as her messenger to deliver a message to Shumbha and Nishumbha, earning her the title Shivadhooti. After the defeats of Chanda, Munda, and Dhoomralochana, Shumbha responds by summoning hundreds of rakshasa clans to join him in war, forming the formidable Chaduranga Bala. Lakhs and crores of asuras flood the battlefield at Shumbha’s command. Amidst this chaos, Raktabeeja is sent to fight Durga. His unique power allows his blood to spawn countless clones, creating a fierce challenge. Durga instructs Kali to drink every drop of Raktabeeja’s blood to prevent further demons from emerging. As Kali consumes all the blood, Durga ultimately beheads Raktabeeja, bringing a decisive end to this intense battle. This chapter also introduces the Ashta-Matrikas: Brahmani, Vaishnavi, Maheshwari, Indrani, Kaumari, Varahi, Chamunda, and Narasimhi, each embodying distinct divine energies and roles in the cosmic order.

In this episode, I explore Chapter 7 of the Durga Saptashati, which reveals the origin of the name “Chamunda.” After the defeat of his lieutenant Dhoomralochana by Devi Ambika, Shumbha sends his fierce commanders, Chanda and Munda, to capture the goddess. As they approach, Devi Ambika transforms into the formidable Kali, emerging from her forehead in a fierce black form. Kali swiftly vanquishes Chanda and Munda. Following their defeat, Kali and Devi Ambika share a playful exchange, with Kali asking if she should take on the battle against Shumbha and Nishumbha alone or if Devi Ambika will join the fight. The goddess then names Kali “Chamunda” in recognition of her role. This chapter not only highlights the dynamic emergence of Kali but also provides insight into the significance of her new name. Join me as I delve into this captivating episode and its profound spiritual lessons.

In this episode, I delve into Chapter 6 of the Durga Saptashati, which recounts the dramatic confrontation between Goddess Ambika and the demon Dhoomralochana. After Shumbha’s victory over the devas and his messenger Sugreeva’s failed attempt to capture Ambika, Shumbha sends his commander Dhoomralochana to seize the goddess. Though Devi Ambika remains in divine repose, her powerful roar, or “hoonkaara,” instantly vanquishes Dhoomralochana. Following this, her vahana, the lion, ruthlessly attacks and defeats the army Dhoomralochana had brought with him. This episode showcases the immense divine power and strategic brilliance of the goddess. Join me as I explore this thrilling chapter and the deep spiritual lessons it imparts.

In this special episode, recorded at the foothills of Chamundi Hills and feeling the divine vibrations of this sacred site, I delve into Chapter 5 of the Durga Saptashati, also known as the Srisrichandi. This chapter marks the beginning of the Uttamacharitrey section and features a crucial interaction between Goddess Durga and Sugreeva, the messenger sent by the demon king Shumbha. Sugreeva arrives in Himachal to deliver Shumbha’s demand for Devi’s submission. In response, Devi intelligently chides him and cleverly manipulates the situation, ultimately tricking Shumbha and his forces into preparing for battle against her. The timing of this episode coincides with Sri Chamundeshwari Vardhanti, a significant festival for the people of Mysuru, adding a special resonance to the exploration of this pivotal chapter.