Activities and Traditions at Shri Mantrapeeteshwari Peetam
At the Peetam, regular Dharma Karyas, poojas of Shri Mangala Narayani Devi, Sarva Mantra Swarupini, and Shri Vidya Poojas are performed. Shri Swamigal’s Parameshti Guru, Shri Anandanandanathar Painganadu (Shri Sundara Shastri) was a distinguished Shri Vidya Upasaka who was conferred Shri Vidya Mantra Deeksha by Shri Kanchi Paramacharya, earning the honorific title “Mantra Murthy.” Shri Mantrapeeteshwari Peetam observes the four Navaratri Utsavas each year with grandeur, adhering to the sanctified Vaidheega practices, featuring intricate Shri Vidya Poojas and Shri Vidya Homas.
Observance of Navaratris and Shri Vidya Homams and Poojas
Shri Mantrapeeteshwari Peetam observes the four Navaratri Utsavas each year with great pomp Activities and Traditions at Shri Mantrapeeteshwari Peetam Observance of Navaratris and Shri Vidya Homams and Poojas Spiritual Initiation and Establishment of Shri Mantrapeeteshwari Peetam and glory, adhering to the sanctified Vaidika practices. These auspicious events feature intricate Shri Vidya Poojas and Shri Vidya Homas, conducted with profound devotion and scrupulous adherence to ancient traditions.
Preservation of Ancient Traditions and Temples
Shri Swamigal is committed to preserving ancient temples across India, ensuring regular poojas and
festivals by establishing a fund for continuous seva. He is passionate about promoting Veda Parayanam,
Shri Durga Saptashati Parayanam, Vedic Kriyas, and Gou Samrakshana (cow protection). Shri Swamigal is dedicated to the propagation and protection of the Vedas, Tirumurai Divya Prabandham, and Puranas.
Significance of Vyasaraghatta
The region of Vyasaraghatta (Hesaraghatta) is believed to be named after Sage Vyasa, who
performed tapas (spiritual penance) in this area, imbuing it with spiritual significance. The presence of Sage Vyasa adds deep cultural and religious importance to the establishment of Shri Mantrapeeteshwari Peetam.
Guru Lineage
Shri Swamigal’s Parameshti Guru, Shri Anandanandanathar Painganadu (Shri Sundara Shastri)
was a distinguished Shri Vidya Upasaka who was conferred Shri Vidya Mantra Deeksha by Shri Kanchi Paramacharya, earning the honorific title “Mantra Murthi.”
Shri Sankara Padukai
The sacred Paduka of Adi Shankaracharya Bhagavatpada, considered an incarnation of
Parameshwara, is a revered object dating back approximately 2500 years. This Paduka, originating from Adi Shankaracharya’s time in Kashmira Mandalam (Kanchipuram), has been worshipped within the holy precincts of Moolamnaya Sarvagnya Shri Sharada Kamakoti Peetam. From the Prathama Acharya to the 69th Acharya, devout poojas have been performed to honor this sacred Paduka. In continuation of this venerable tradition, Shri Jayendra Saraswathi Swami of Kanchipuram and Shri Pranavandana Saraswathi Swami of Pudukkottai Shri Bhuvaneshwari Peetam, have bestowed this illustrious Paduka upon Shri Mantrapeeteshwari Peetam. Regular poojas are performed at the Peetam, ensuring the preservation and honoring of this esteemed legacy with sincere veneration.
Shri Vidya Lineage of Shri Mantrapeeteshwari Peetam
Vimarsanandanathar
Karuveli Shri Venkatrama Shastri
Pratipanandanathar
Shri Swaminatah Shastri
Anandanandanathar
Manthramurthy Painganadu Shri Sundara Shastri
Purnanandanathar
Melpadi Shri Krishna Murthy
Prakashanandanathar
Papanasam Balasubramanyam
Shri Sadhanandendra Saraswathi
Shri Mangala Narayani
Narasu ayanam yasya saha narayanaha, dasya shakti narayani”
नरसु अयनं यस्य सह नारायणह, तस्य शक्ति नारायणी ॥
The Significance of Narayani
Narayani, meaning “the femal form of Narayana” or “She who belongs to Narayana,” signifies her intrinsic bond with Vishnu, embodying the dynamic energy (Shakti) of Narayana. As a manifestation of His power, Narayani plays a vital role in the universe, emphasizing the crucial nature of the feminine force in creation, preservation, and destruction.
Attributes and Symbolism
Narayani is depicted with attributes that represent different facets of Her divine energy, including:
- A Conch, symbolizing the sound of the universe
- A Chakra, representing time and space
- A Lotus, denoting spiritual enlightenment
- A blessing posture, reflecting Her all-encompassing nature and role in guiding and protecting the cosmos
Revered Forms of Narayani
Goddess Lakshmi, Durga, and Ganga are all revered as Narayani, highlighting their profound
significance in Hindu culture. Women, in various roles such as mothers, sisters, wives, and
daughters, are also respected and honored as embodiments of Goddess Narayani.
Associations and Embodiments
Narayani is not only a divine name but also associated with a plant, a weapon, and medicine. As Yoga Maya, Narayani—in the form of the river Ganga—cleanses our sins. She embodies nature and is the source of all worldly activities, including creation, preservation, and destruction (Srushti, Sthithi, and Laya).
Special Features of the Four Navaratris
1. Vasantha Navaratri
It is celebrated for nine days during the spring season, starting immediately after the new moon day of the month of Panguni, i.e. Chaitra Shukla Pratipada (prathamai). The Telugu New Year, also called Yugadi, is celebrated as well. This is the Navaratri of Lalitha Herself. This is indeed, a very important festival for Shrividya devotees. Shri Rama Navami festival also falls on the ninth day of this Navaratri. Given that Shyamala is one among the 10 goddesses called Dasamahavidya, and also has connotations with Shri Ramachandra, this occurrence signifies deeper meaning. In addition, there also exists a Puranic reference which says her aspect is indeed the Ramavataram. After all, it would be no surprise to notice that both of them are of the color Shyama! In the Lalitha Sahasranam, it is stated: “Karanguli Nakhotpanna Narayana Dashakruti.”
Which means, the 10 incarnations of Narayana arose from the nails from the fingertips of Lalita. The Brahmanda Purana says that she created and destroyed the various demonic spirits of Bhandasura. In addition, there also exists a Purana that says that Goddess Parvati is the form of night and Lord Shiva is the form of day. “The purity of Bhagavata Shravana, the purity of Bhagirathi’s Water, Purity of Shakti Padadhyanam, and Siddha Navaratri Vratham are immeasurable.” The scriptures teach that the nectarine teachings of Bhagavata Mahapuranam, the water of Goddess Ganga, meditation of the Goddess’s two feet, and the observance of the Navaratri fast grant wisdom to devotees. Navaratri, a festival of nine nights, is a sacred time to worship the divine Parashakti Jaganmata. It is recorded in the Tantras that even Shri Parameshwara observed the Navaratri fast before vanquishing the Tripurasuras. According to sages, the year is divided into six seasons, each spanning two months—and among these—the season of spring which is called Kusumakara or Vasantha by Shri Krishna, is considered the best. Spring is a time of renewal, when life begins afresh, the harvest is complete, prosperity abounds, and joy fills the hearts of people. Celebrating Vasantha Navaratri brings blessings to the world and fosters devotion and liberation through its unique yoga. Most of all, this festival is resolutely dedicated to the worship of Shri Lalithambika. Let us continue to praise the Goddess and pray for
the strength to do so in the numerous Vasantha Navaratris to come.
2. Ashada Navaratri
This festival is again celebrated for nine days, beginning with the first
new moon of the month of Aadi, and commences from the following
day—also known as Ashada Shukla Pratipada (prathamai). In the Shridevi Mahatmiyam, Varahi is one of the Saptamatrus (seven mothers) who assisted Chandi Devi in her battle against the armies of Shumbha and Nishumbha. She is described as having a human body with eight arms, a boar’s head, and three eyes. In the Shri Vidya Parampara, she is also referred to as Dandanatha—the female commander of Lalita’s armies, embodying the power of Shri Vidya. Varahi, meaning “the boar-faced
one,” symbolizes the destruction of evil forces that hinder devotees’ spiritual progress. She paralyzes enemies and guides devotees toward Brahma Vidya—Shri Vidya. Known also as Panchami, she, along with Kurukulla, is regarded as a parental figure in the Shri
Chakra, where Kurukulla represents the full moon, and Varahi symbolizes the new moon. Varahi also embodies the light (Prakasha) aspect of the goddess Parashakti, while Kurukulla represents the reflexive (vimarsha) aspect. In another form, Varahi is regarded as one of the yoginis who assumes the shape of a boar, lifting the earth with her tusks to confer blessings upon all beings. She is depicted with eight arms, a boar’s face, and three eyes. In some meditative descriptions, she sits under a palm tree as the trusted assistant and chief advisor of the goddess, earning the title Chaitanya Bhairavi, the consort of the strength of devotees. Known as a commander of armies, Varahi is detailed in the Varahi Tantra, where she rides a chariot drawn by boars and resides in the ocean of sugarcane extract (ikshu)—one of the four oceans surrounding Lalita. In Shri Vidya Upasana, she is worshipped in various forms, including Laghuvarahi, Swapnavarahi, and Thiraskarini, depending on the sect. During her Navaratri, worship should be conducted under the guidance of Shri Vidya Gurus. Her mantras are accessible only after significant spiritual achievements. Shriveera Kavirayar’s Varahimaala is a renowned text, valued for its
practical approach and the concealed mantras it contains, which reward those who diligently seek and study it.
3. Shri Chandika Navaratri
This festival too, like the other Navaratris is celebrated for nine
days starting from the new moon of the month of Purattasi, and
formally commencing from the next day—popularly knowns as Asvayuja Shukla Pratipada (prathamai), and is also known as Durga, Lakshmi, and Saraswati Pooja. This occasion brings immense joy
to practitioners, as it is a time of devotion and celebration. During
this period, women and men create decorative displays of dolls, known as Kolu, and observe the nine days as a unique festival. Daily, they invite women to their homes, offer them treats like sundal and
turmeric, sing devotional songs, and revel in the festivities.
According to the Devi Mahatmiyam, this period commemorates
Parashakti’s triumph over demons such as Mahishasura, Shumbha,
Nishumbha Chanda, Munda, and Raktabeeja, in various forms, to
protect the gods.
Parashakti is revered as Chandika Parameshwari, and is also called Chamunda since her form and temples are associated with the Navakshari mantra. This Goddess is said to have chanted the Akshara Laksha. The Devi Mahatmiyam, a seven-part text comprising 700 mantras, holds significant spiritual value, and its recitation is believed to require Yogyatha, or a level of spiritual readiness. The text is regarded as a divine revelation by the Goddess herself, of which a part exists in the Markandeya Puranam.
“एकैवहं जगत्यत्न द्वितीया का ममापरा”
“It is only I who exist in this Jagat, and but who could be my second” (It is only Devi who exists in the world, and the universe itself is Her) The only eternal power in the world is the Goddess, and there is no other. All adornments and
incarnations belong to her alone. As Saraswati, she grants knowledge and education; as Mahalakshmi, she bestows wealth and sustenance; and as Chamundi Durga or Mahakali, she dispels the fears of her devotees. Despite her many names and forms, the essence of the Goddess remains the same, embodying profound philosophical truth through her various manifestations and decorations. Once, in the country of Kosala, King Dhruvasindhu ruled with two wives. Upon his death, tradition dictated that his first wife’s son, Sudarshana, should inherit the throne. However, the king’s second wife conspired to crown her own son and banished Sudarshana and his mother to the forest.
They sought refuge at Bharadwaja Rishi’s ashram, where Sudarshana devoted himself to the worship of Shakti. Pleased by his unwavering devotion, the Mother appeared to him, granting him the divine powers needed to overcome the conspiracy and reclaim his rightful place as king. Seeing Sudarshana’s growing power, the king of Kashi married his daughter to him, forging an alliance with Kosala. This alliance provoked the king of Kosala into battle, where Sudarshana emerged victorious, killing him and becoming the ruler of Kosala—as was meant to be. In gratitude to the Goddess who granted him victory, Sudarshana celebrated for ten days, a tradition believed to have evolved into the modern Navaratri festival. Sharad Navaratri begins on Shukla Pratipada (prathamai) and concludes on Navami, followed by Vijaya Dashami.
It is said that listening to or reading the story of Ambal, especially on Ashtami and Navami, protects one from ailments like measles and helps eliminate planetary defects. This practice is also believed to reunite those who are estranged. For those pursuing arts such as music, dance, and sports, or beginning the sacred practice of Vidyabhyasam (Aksharabhyasam), Vijayadashami during Purattasi is considered auspicious. Saraswati Pooja, celebrated during these nine days, honors the Goddess Saraswati,
also known as Sharada. The festival emphasizes the need for education, wealth, and courage—qualities essential for a
prosperous life. Worship during this time venerates the Goddess in her three aspects: (kalaimagal[sarswathy], Malaimagal[parvathy] and Alaimagal[lakshmi]) with the month of Purattasi itself being associated with Mercury. Everything in life requires power. Just as eyes are needed to see and ears to hear, the faculties we possess enable us to function and
achieve success. Without them, life’s potential remains unrealized. To accomplish any task, a source of power is essential, and the ultimate provider of all power is Parashakti.
Parashakti is formless, akin to electricity—it cannot be seen but can only be felt. However, when we choose to give this energy a form to worship, it manifests with special attributes. It is said that upon waking each morning, one should first look at their hands and envision Lakshmi at the fingertips, Saraswati in the middle, and Durga at the base, offering prayers to them. Wealth is the foundation of human life, and thus Mahalakshmi, the deity governing wealth, is essential to guide its wise use. Saraswati, the embodiment of education, follows as the guide to wisdom and understanding.
Lastly, courage and strength to protect and uphold all achievements are symbolized by Durga. By offering prayers to these three powers each morning, one can invite all the benefits of life with ease. This daily practice was once a staple of traditional life but has gradually diminished, becoming limited to special occasions. Festivals like Navaratri and Shivaratri are observed to ensure that such devotion is maintained at least during these sacred periods. During Navaratri, initiated Shrividya devotees perform Navavarana Pooja in accordance with the Shri Vidya Paddhati, worshipping the divine forms of Lalitha and Durga.
4. Shyamala Navaratri
Shyamala Navaratri, also known as Rajamathangi Navaratri, is celebrated for nine days starting from the new moon day of the Thai month, and commencing formally from the day of Magha Shukla Pratipada (prathamai). This Navaratri honors the goddess Shyamala, also called Shri Raja Shyamala, Shri Mathangi, and Mantrini, who is not as commonly
known across India. She is the incarnation of the ascetic daughter of Mathanga Muni and is revered as the ninth among the Dasha Mahavidyas. Shyamala is celebrated as the deity of arts, eloquence, intellect guided by righteousness, and the mastery of education. Known as the supreme goddess of all Vedic mantras, she is called Mantrini and serves as the great minister of Shri Lalitha Tripurasundari—who governs and blesses the world. Shyamala Navaratri is dedicated to worshipping and celebrating this powerful goddess. In Shri Vidya Upasana, the goddess Shyamala is worshipped in various forms, including Laghushyamala, Vagvadini, and Nakulividya. These Vagvadini Devis
are believed to have chanted Lalitha’s thousand holy names in Her divine court. Rajamatangi Devi, the deity revered
by the great poet Kalidasa, is said to have blessed him with eloquence and creativity, enabling him to compose celebrated epics. Among these, Shrishyamaladandakam, a work of poetic brilliance composed in Dandaka Praasham, is renowned for its exceptional beauty. The praises, epics, and Puranas, composed using the 51 Sanskrit letters known as Matrukas, embody the essence of grace, as do the Vedas themselves. Navaratri is observed from the first day of the bright fortnight to the ninth day of the first month of the lunar calendar, and Shri Vidya Upasakas celebrate four of these Navaratris. Additionally, eight other Navaratris are observed, making a total of twelve Navaratris celebrated at the Shri Mantra Peeteshwari Peetam.
Chaitra Shukla Prathamai
Vasantha Navaratri
Vaishakha Shukla Prathamai
Bhagalamukhi Navaratri
Jeshta Shukla Prathamai
Dhoomavati Navaratri
Ashada Shukla Prathamai
Varahi Navaratri
Shravana Shukla Prathamai
Lakshmi Navaratri
Bhadrapada Shukla Prathamai
Shri Radha Navaratri
Ashvina Shukla Prathamai
Chandi Navaratri
Karthika Shukla Prathamai
Gauri Navaratri
Margasirsha Shukla Prathamai
Vanadurga Navaratri
Pushya Shukla Prathamai
Shri Sagambari Navaratri
Magha Shukla Prathamai
Shri Matangi Navaratri
Phalguna Shukla Prathamai
Shri Kali Navaratri
Shri Bhadrakali
सर्वज्ञा सर्वलोकेशी देवयोनिरयोनिजा ||
निर्गुणा निरहङ्कारा लोककल्याणकारिणी ||
कलौ काली महाविद्या कलौ काली च वरप्रदा ||
Bhadrakali signifies auspiciousness and embodies the philosophy of time, representing the eternal force that bestows blessings upon devotees across ages. Shri Bhagavati Bhadrakali Devi, regarded as the mother of all beings, is the ultimate giver of auspiciousness. Bhadrakali Upasana holds a prominent place in Kerala and in the Shri Vidya Upasana tradition, with numerous Bhadrakali temples, among which, the Chottanikkara Kshetra is particularly renowned.
Centuries ago, Shri Vilva Mangalam Swamigal installed Shri Bhadrakali Devi in Keezhkavu, and the Goddess is said to have blessed Semma Nadu Namboothiri with knowledge of Tantra Vidyas through a divine dream. Similarly, in the year Swastishri Manmatha (2015), Shri Bhadrakali Devi appeared in a dream to Shri Shri Swami and imparted the teachings of Tantra Vidya. Following this divine vision, a Panchaloha idol of the Goddess was crafted by a skilled sculptor and consecrated under the Uttara Phalguni Nakshatra in the month of Pushya. Poojas are conducted as per Tantric practices, with special abhishekams and adornments performed by Shri Swami on new moon days, honoring the Goddess with devotion and reverence.
Shatru Samhara (Sarvaabheeshta Phalaprada) Subramhanya Pooja
In ancient times, the worship of five deities was prevalent. Around 2500 years ago, Shri Adi Shankaracharya introduced the worship of these deities and included the path of Kaumaram, formalizing the practice as Shanmatha. He also composed the 33 verses of Subramanya Bhujangam at Tiruchendur, dedicated to Jayanthi Nathaswamy. Each of these verses is considered a Maha Mantra, making Subramanya Pooja highly significant, capable of bringing
victory and auspiciousness in all endeavors. The Shatru Samhara Subramanya Trishati is an essential aspect of Kaumara Upasana. This secretive practice is said to vanquish both internal enemies,
such as kama (desire), krodha (anger), lobha (greed), moha (delusion), mada (pride), and matsarya (envy), and
external foes. Scriptures like Skanda Archana Kalpadruma and other Kaumara Tantras elaborate on this method,
emphasizing its potency. However, Subrahmanya Upasana requires careful handling as it is directly connected to the Swadhishthana Chakra and demands deep devotion and discipline. Unlike other Trishati Stotras or Namavalis, the practice of this Trisati is reserved for select, qualified devotees. It is primarily performed as an Archana by Subrahmanya or Shakta devotees. Also known as Shiva Subrahmanya Trishati, it integrates six groups of names corresponding to the Shadakshari Mantra, representing the six faces of the Supreme Lord: Sadyojata, Vamadeva, Aghora, Tatpurusha, Ishana, and Adhomukha. To undertake this practice, devotees must receive initiation into the Subrahmanya Pancha Dashakshari Mahamantra from a Guru or Acharya. Subrahmanya is meditated upon as a red-colored deity with six faces and 12 arms, holding the Goddess Shashti on his lap. Participation in this Pooja requires the grace of Subrahmanya and the blessings of a Guru. Approximately 150 years ago, Shatru Samhara Pooja was initiated by Shri Anandanandanatha, Guru of the Purnananda Mandali, and continues to be conducted on Vishakha Nakshatra days under the guidance of Shri Shri Sadhanandendra Saraswati Swami, a revered Guru in the Purnananda Mandali tradition.