The Significance of Maha shivratri

Hare Krishna! Heartiest wishes to all of you on the occasion of Mahashivratri festival. The Chaturdashi of the Krishna Paksha of every month is called Shivratri. But the Shivratri falling on the Krishna Chaturdashi of the month of Phalgun is called Mahashivratri, which is celebrated with great joy and devotion. At the time of doomsday, on this day at the time of Pradosh, Lord Shiva performs Tandava and burns the universe with the flame of his third eye. That is why it is also called Mahashivratri or Jalratri. Lord Shankar was also married on this day. That is why Bhole Bhandari’s wedding procession is taken out at night, and fruits are eaten after worshipping.

Lord Shiva as the Controller of the Universe

Shiva means auspicious or benevolent. Adidev, who is also called by the names Shankar, Shambhu, Mahadev, Mahesh, Rudra, etc., is also the controller of this material world. According to Brahma Samhita,

 kṣīraṁ yathā dadhi vikāra-viśeṣa-yogā
sañjāyate na hi tataḥ pṛthag asti hetoḥ
yaḥ śambhutām api tathā samupaiti kāryād
govindam ādi-puruṣaṁ tam ahaṁ bhajāmii

Lord Brahma tells that just as curd is produced from milk but it is a distorted form of milk, in the same way Lord Shiva also helps in the operation of the universe along with Brahma and Vishnu as the controller of this material world.

The Role of Lord Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma in the Universe

Elsewhere it is described that Brahma, Vishnu, Mahesh run the system of this material universe through Rajo, Sattva, and Tamo Gunas. Vishnu and Mahesh are beyond Gunas, and the creation and destruction of this world take place under their authority. In this context, they have also been called Gunavatar. Many times the wrong notion is spread that Shivji is affected by Tamo Guna, but this is not so at all. Lord Shiv is beyond Gunas and he is the presiding deity of Tamo Guna in this world. Ghosts, spirits, vampires, demons, etc. are his followers under Tamo Guna.

Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu: No Difference

In the Mahabharata’s Anushasana Parva, one meaning of the names Shiv, Rudrasthanu, and Rudra in the Sahastranaam of Vishnu is that there is no difference between the two. Thus, in many scriptures, we find that there is no difference between Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva, but in a more in-depth study, we will find that there is a difference. Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu had called it Achintyabhedabheda Tattva.

Lord Shiva’s Role as the Best Among Vaishnavas

Now, how is there a difference? Srimad Bhagwatam describes in the twelfth chapter that this Shrimad Bhagwatam is the essence of all the Vedas, and in the essence of the same Vedas, Bhagwatam, it is described that the best among Vaishnavas is Shambhu. Vaishnavnam Yatha Shambhu. In the fourth chapter of Shrimad Bhagwatam, Lord Shiva describes Rudrageet and says that whoever recites this hymn, it becomes easy for him to get the devotion of Lord Shri Krishna. Devotees of Rudra sect, one of the Vaishnav traditions, follow the path of Krishna bhakti given by Lord Shiva, and the Acharya of this tradition is Shri Vishnu Swami ji.

Lord Shiva’s Devotion to Lord Ram and His Preaching

In Padma Purana, Lord Shiva preaches to his wife Parvati,

śrī rāma rāma rāmeti rame rāme manorame
sahasranāma tat tulyaṃ rāmanāma varānane

That is, O Rama, O Sumukhi, the name of Ram is like Vishnu Sahastra Naam. I always praise Ram and enjoy the name of Ram. Thus, by deep study of scriptures, we find that there is no difference between Lord Shiva and Vishnu, and Shiva considers Lord Vishnu as his worshipable deity.

Lord Shiva’s Exchange with Lord Vishnu: The Mohini Leela

In the eighth chapter, when Lord Shiva requested to see the Mohini avatar of Lord Vishnu, Vishnu Ji gave him the darshan of Mohini form, but what happened was that Vishnu Ji confused Shiva Ji by creating attraction towards Mohini through his Maya. This leela is an exchange between two great personalities, but some immature people feel that this is a competition of superiority between Shiva and Vishnu Ji.

Lord Shiva in the Raas Leela of Lord Krishna

Lord Shiva, eager to participate in the Raas Leela of Lord Shri Krishna, took the form of a Gopi and even today we can see that in Shridham Vrindavan, he is worshipped as Gopeshwar Mahadev, where he is adorned as a Gopi. Lord Shiva protects every Dham as the Kshetrapalak. In Mathura, he is in the form of Bhuteshwar Mahadev. In Manasi Ganga Govardhan, he resides in the form of Chakleshvar Mahadev. In Nandgaon, he is in the form of Nandeshwar Mahadev, in Kamyavan, in the form of Kameshwar Mahadev and Gopeshwar Mahadev Ji is the Digpal of Shri Dham Vrindavan.

The Importance of Gopeshwar Mahadev

Shridham Vrindavan is a major place for Gaudiya Vaishnavas, and in many Gaudiya Vaishnava texts, Gopeshwar Mahadev situated in Vrindavan has been praised by our previous acharyas. Shrila Narhari Chakravarti writes in Bhakti Ratnakar Granth that, “I bow down to Gopeshwar Mahadev who removes all the troubles that come in devotion and makes the love of God accessible in Vrindavan.”

Lord Shiva’s Meeting with Baby Krishna

When Lord Shiva came to know that Lord Shri Krishna has taken birth as a child in Gokul, he expressed his desire to meet Krishna and asked for permission from mother Parvati to go to Nandgaon, and he reached there to meet him in his Aghora disguise. And when Yashoda saw that an Aghori Baba has come to meet Krishna, thinking that Krishna might get scared of his appearance, Yashoda Maiya refused to meet him. Baba insisted on not going without meeting him and went some distance and sat there.

Lord Shiva as Nandeshwar: A Symbol of Devotion

Here Lord was also eager to give darshan to Shiva, so he also started crying and cried in such a way that he could not stop even after someone tried to pacify him. If not, then someone suggested that maybe it is a bad omen because of not allowing Baba to meet Kanha and Kanha is crying, then Lord Shiva was called and as soon as Lord Shiva touched Kanha, he became calm. Then Yashoda Maiya requested Shiv Ji that our Kanha does not cry because of your coming here, so you stay here. From then on, Lord Shiva became Nandeshwar.

Conclusion: Praying for Lord Shiva’s Blessings

This wonderful leela shows us that only the eagerness of the devotee of Lord to meet him can make him have his darshan. It is said that without the permission of Lord Shiva, no one is allowed to enter the abode. Therefore, we all should also pray to Lord Shiva to please remove the desire to enjoy the material world from our hearts and remove all the obstacles in doing devotion to Lord Shri Krishna with complete dedication, so that we can get out of this cycle of life and death and attain Bhagavat Dham at the end of life. Hare Krishna!

The Life and Legacy of Bhishma: A Tale of Sacrifice and Devotion

Bhishma, one of the most revered characters in the Mahabharata, was born as Devavrata to King Shantanu of the lunar dynasty and the celestial river goddess, Ganga. Devavrata was the human embodiment of Dyo, one of the Ashtavasus, who was cursed to be born as a mortal due to a transgression. The story of his birth is intertwined with divine interventions and past-life connections.

King Shantanu, in his previous life as King Mahabhisheka, was cursed by Brahma to be reborn as a mortal for casting an inappropriate glance at Ganga in Brahma’s celestial assembly. Ganga, too, was cursed but was granted the boon to return to the heavens after giving birth to the Ashtavasus, who would incarnate as her sons.

When Ganga incarnated on Earth, she roamed the forests near the Ganga river, waiting for the destined moment. Around the same time, King Pratipa, Shantanu’s father, was performing austerities near the Ganga. Ganga appeared before him and sat on his right thigh. When she expressed her desire to marry him, Pratipa explained that the right thigh is reserved for a daughter-in-law, thus predicting her future union with his son, Shantanu.

Years later, Shantanu encountered Ganga by the river and was captivated by her divine beauty. She agreed to marry him on the condition that he would never question or oppose her actions. Shantanu agreed, and their union brought the Ashtavasus into the world. However, true to the curse, Ganga drowned each of the first seven children in the river immediately after birth, ensuring their release from the mortal realm. When the eighth child was born, Shantanu could no longer contain himself and stopped her. This act broke their agreement, and Ganga left him, taking the child, Devavrata, with her.

Ganga raised Devavrata in the forest, ensuring he received the best education under the guidance of the sage Vasishtha. The boy grew up mastering various arts, scriptures, and warfare. At the age of thirty-two, Ganga returned Devavrata to Shantanu, fulfilling her promise.

The Name of Bhishma

Devavrata was soon anointed as the crown prince of Hastinapur. However, a new challenge arose when Shantanu fell in love with Satyavati, the daughter of a fisherman. Satyavati’s father laid down a condition for their marriage: only her sons would inherit the throne. Shantanu, bound by his duty and love for his firstborn, found himself in a dilemma and withdrew into grief.

Devavrata, learning of his father’s plight, decided to intervene. He visited Satyavati’s father and promised him that Satyavati’s sons would inherit the throne. When the fisherman raised concerns about potential conflicts with Devavrata’s future children, Devavrata made an extraordinary vow of lifelong celibacy to eliminate any possibility of contention.

This solemn pledge, known as the “Bhishma Pratigya,” astounded everyone, including the gods, who showered flowers upon him. It was this unwavering commitment that earned him the name “Bhishma,” meaning one who undertakes a terrible vow.

Shantanu, deeply moved by his son’s sacrifice, bestowed upon him a unique boon: Bhishma would have the power to choose the time of his death, making him invincible until he willingly relinquished his life.

The Legacy of Bhishma

Bhishma’s life was defined by his devotion to duty, loyalty, and selflessness. His celibacy and sacrifice for the greater good exemplify the highest ideals of dharma. As a key figure in the Mahabharata, Bhishma played an integral role in the Kuru dynasty’s saga, guiding successive generations with wisdom and foresight.

His life teaches us the importance of self-sacrifice, adherence to principles, and the courage to make difficult decisions for the greater good. Bhishma remains an eternal symbol of dedication and righteousness, inspiring countless generations to walk the path of dharma.

 

Vrindavan is a holy land with myriad of holy tales, and a girl called Lalita lived there. She belonged to a family who had great belief in Lord Krishna, and she grew up listening to the glorious stories and wisdom of Lord Krishna. She also became a devotee of Lord Krishna, but she was looking for a more divine connection with God in her life! That’s when her grandmother narrated the story of the Katyayani Vrata. It is a sacred vow taken by the gopis to invoke the blessings of Goddess Katyayani!

So in this story of Katyayani Vrata, the gopis of Vrindavangatehred by the river Yamuna and performed the Katyayani Vrata with pure devotion and love for Lord Krishna. They got up every day and went down for an entire month to bathe in the holy waters of the river Yamuna and offered their prayers to Goddess Katyayani, the sixth form of Durga.

The groups chanted “evi Katyayani, Maha-maye, Maha-yogini Adhiswari, Nanda-Gopa-Sutam Devi, Patim Me Kurute Namah,” and offered fresh butter, flowers, and earthen lamps and were pleased with the prayers and offerings, Goddess Katyayani blessed them, and Krishna Himself became the ultimate fulfilment of their desires.

The Importance of Katyayani Vrata

Katyayani Vrata has its roots in Skanda Purana and other ancient scriptures, and it is a proven practice that has the power to bless devotees with fulfillment and divine connection.

The Goddess Katyayani is born with the combined energies of the Trimurtis—Brahma, Vishnu, and Shiva. She is believed to be a warrior Goddess who destroyed the demon Mahishasura. She is filled with divine feminine energy called Shakti that nurtures, protects, and guides her devotees.

So, at ISKCON Delhi, the devotees learn that if you are looking for something that will help you overcome the obstacles in your spiritual and personal life, then Katyayani Vrata is the answer!

Know the Rituals Related To Katyayani Vrata

Lalita, who wanted to have a deep connection with the Lord, began her journey with Margashirsha on the first day of the month. She would begin at dawn, bathe, dress up and then offer fruits, incense, and ghee lamps to a clay idol of Goddess Katyayani. She also chanted the sacred mantra taught by her grandmother, immersing herself in its vibrations. She also visited River Yamuna with her friends, just like the gopis, to recite prayers, sing kirtans, and share stories of Krishna.

The whole thing ended with the vrata on the Purnima (full moon) of Margashirsha and a puja by the family!

Know The Benefits of Katyayani Vrata

1. Divine Guidance: It sets you as a devotee on the spiritual path, enabling you to make life decisions with harmony and dharma.

2. Good Relationships: If you are a woman looking for a righteous and spiritually compatible life partner, then Katyayani Vrata is best for you.

3. Removal of Obstacles: You can overcome your obstacles, whether material, emotional, or spiritual.

4. Inner Strength: You gain inner strength with the spiritual power gained!

5. Enhanced Bhakti: As you observe the vrata, your spiritual connection with the Lord strengthens.

The Eternal Outcomes of Katyayani Vrata

Continuing the story of Lalitha, the observation of Katyayani Vrata for a month brought her inner calm and peace with her prayers to Goddess Katyayani. In the end, she also gained a great sense of confidence. She was confident that KKrishna’sgrace would lead her at every turn and that her path was blessed.

Come to ISKCON Delhi and draw inspiration from the Gopis and Lalita. Practice Katyayani Vrata with faith and devotion, bringing you the blessings of Goddess Katyayani, who will put you on the path of spirituality, enrich your life, and bring about a divine connection with the Lord!

ISKCON Delhi and Its Role in Katyayani Vrata

ISKCON Delhi is where you can get guidance as a devotee to practice Katyayani Vrata. They organise special programs during Margashirsha when Katyayani Vrata is traditionally performed. You get to participate in bhajans, kirtans, preachings of Bhagavad Gita, and rituals invoking Goddess Katyayani.

You can also participate in sankirtan yajnas, and you do not haveddon’thave to worry about the materials required, like flowers, ghee lamps, or prasadam, as all is provided, enabling you to focus on the performance of your vrata with ease. The outcomes are profound, and you experience spirituality, peace, happiness, and clarity regarding your life purpose.

ISKCON Delhi plays a crucial role in both preserving and promoting Katyayani Vrata!

Wrap up!

The Katyayani Vrata is a great act where you surrender your desires to Goddess Katyayani and embrace the grace of Lord Krishna. As Srila Prabhupada said, “he real perfection of life is to please Lord Krishna and to always remain in His service.”

Shrimati Sita Thakurani holds a significant place in the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition, revered not only as the eternal wife of Shri Advaita Acharya but also as a divine mother to the entire universe. Her life, filled with deep spiritual connections, maternal affection, and unwavering devotion, is a beautiful testament to her pivotal role in the pastimes of Shri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, who is Lord Krishna Himself.

Divine Origins and Marriage

Sita Thakurani was born as the daughter of Shri Nrishinga Baduri, a deeply spiritual figure. She was married to Shri Advaita Acharya in Phuliya Nagara, a union that was divinely ordained. As per the Gaura-Ganodesha-Dipika, she is considered to be an incarnation of Yogamaya, the divine energy that orchestrates the Lord’s pastimes. In Krishna-lila, she appeared as Purnamasi, the mother of Sandipani Muni and grandmother of Madhumangal and Nandimukhi, illustrating her eternal connection with the Lord in His various incarnations.

Sita Thakurani and the Birth of Lord Chaitanya

One of the most revered aspects of Sita Thakurani’s life was her deep maternal affection towards Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Her connection with Him began from the moment of His birth. When Jagannatha Mishra, the father of Shri Chaitanya, saw signs of the Lord’s imminent arrival, he sent word to Advaita Acharya in Shantipura. Upon hearing the joyous news, Advaita Acharya sent his wife, Sita Thakurani, to Mayapur to witness the birth of the child.
Arriving with great auspiciousness, Sita Thakurani brought with her a variety of gifts, including silk garments, golden ornaments, and other sacred items, which she offered to the divine child. She immediately recognized the transcendental nature of the newborn, seeing in Him the same Krishna of Gokula. Her heart overflowed with maternal affection, and she blessed the baby with long life and good fortune. In her loving concern, she also named Him Nimai, a name that would protect Him from any malevolent forces.

Maternal Guidance and Care

Sita Thakurani’s role extended beyond her initial visit. She regularly visited the house of Jagannatha Mishra and Sachi Devi to help care for the young Nimai. Her knowledge and experience in child-rearing, coupled with her divine intuition, made her a vital figure in His upbringing. She offered invaluable guidance to Sachi Devi, advising her on how to care for her extraordinary son. The two women were united in their love and devotion to Nimai, and Sita Thakurani’s frequent visits created a bond between the families that transcended mere friendship.
During Nimai’s childhood and youth, Sita Thakurani and Advaita Acharya continued to play crucial roles in His life. When Nimai’s older brother, Vishvarupa, took sannyasa and left the family, the grief-stricken Jagannatha Mishra and Sachi Devi found solace in the comforting words and support of Advaita Acharya and Sita Thakurani. Their unwavering presence helped the family cope with the loss.

Devotion to Lord Chaitanya

Sita Thakurani’s devotion to Lord Chaitanya was boundless. Even as He grew into His divine mission, she remained an integral part of His life. Advaita Acharya and Sita Thakurani were present when the Lord began His kirtan pastimes, spreading the sankirtan movement. They prayed fervently for His well-being and supported Him in His divine mission to uplift the fallen souls of Kali-yuga.
After Lord Chaitanya took sannyasa, the separation from Him deeply affected His mother, Sachi Devi. Sita Thakurani stayed with her for days, consoling her in her time of grief. When the Lord eventually returned to Shantipura after His sannyasa, it was Sita Thakurani’s cooking that nourished Him. Her vatsalya-prema (parental affection) for the Lord was so deep that He accepted her offerings with the same love and respect He showed His own mother, Sachi Devi.

The Spiritual Festivities

Sita Thakurani also played an active role in the spiritual festivities organized by Lord Chaitanya and Advaita Acharya. Her joyful participation in kirtans and festivals, along with her organization of the events, contributed to the spreading of the bhakti movement. Her home in Shantipura became a hub for devotees who gathered to immerse themselves in the ecstatic love of Krishna.
One particular instance, beautifully described in the writings of Shri Parameshvari Dasa Thakura, tells of a festival where Sita Thakurani, at the request of Lord Chaitanya, organized an event filled with singing, dancing, and the chanting of the Lord’s names. The joy and devotion that filled the air during these occasions reflected Sita Thakurani’s deep connection to both Lord Chaitanya and the community of devotees.

Sita Thakurani’s Legacy

Sita Thakurani and Advaita Acharya had three sons: Achyutananda, Krishna Mishra, and Gopala Mishra. Each of their sons followed in the spiritual footsteps of their parents, becoming dedicated followers of Lord Chaitanya.
Her legacy as Yogamaya, the divine energy that facilitates the Lord’s pastimes, underscores her importance in both Krishna-lila and Gaura-lila. Through her actions, Sita Thakurani exemplified the perfect devotee, whose life is dedicated entirely to the service of the Lord and His devotees. Her maternal affection for Lord Chaitanya, as well as her active involvement in the spiritual lives of others, cements her position as a central figure in the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition.

Conclusion

Sita Thakurani’s life is a shining example of devotion, love, and spiritual wisdom. As the eternal consort of Advaita Acharya and the divine mother of Lord Chaitanya, she played an indispensable role in the Lord’s earthly pastimes. Her compassion, care, and dedication not only nurtured the young Nimai but also helped spread the teachings of devotion and love throughout the world. Her story continues to inspire generations of devotees to this day, and she is rightfully worshipped as one of the most revered figures in the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition.

Lord Balaram appeared on the full moon day of Shravan Month. This day is celebrated as Balaram Jayanti every year. This year it is celebrated on the 9th of August. During this festival, ISKCON Temples are beautifully decorated. Devotees assemble from various regions to get a glance at deities. This day has great significance as Lord Balaram is very dearest to Lord Krishna. Lord Balaram associates Himself with Hal (Plough) and Mace, so he is also known as Haldhar.

Lord Sri Krishna is the Supreme Personality of Godhead among all avatars. Balaramji is the first expansion of Sri Krishna.

Difference In Appearance of Krishna & Balaram

Balaram Ji and Sri Krishna only differ in appearance. The appearance of Sri Krishna is blue or Shyamwarna, like dark clouds. So sometimes, He is also called Ghanshyam. Sri Balaram Ji’s appearance is white as pure milky clouds.

Role of Sri Balaram

Balaram Ji cooperates with the Supreme Lord in various ways and enjoys the ecstasy of the service of Sri Krishna in the form of Sheshnag. When Sri Krishna appeared in this materialistic world, he comes along with His associates and paraphernalia.

Lord Balaram’s Advent

When 5000 years back, Lord Sri Krishna appeared on this worldly planet. Sri Balaram preceded in this world. When Baladeva stayed in the womb of Devaki as the seventh child, she presumed that this child is not an ordinary child. He is a divine child, which bothered her about his safety.

Kansa became alert by spotting a glow in Mata Devaki, thinking the prophecy may have fooled him. Instead of the 8th son of Devaki, he will be slain by the 7th son.

Kansa’s Fright

Even Kansa became fearful by sensing his potency, thinking the prophecy may have tricked him that he will be slain only by the eighth child of Devaki. At that time, Lord Sri Krishna enjoined Yoga Maya, His internal potency, to transfer the unborn from the womb of Devaki to the house of Sri Nanda Maharaj at Gokul in the womb of Rohini. In this way, Balaram Ji appeared in Gokul at Nanda Baba’s house.

Forecast of Gargamuni

This newly born child is loaded with extraordinary body strength, so this child will be called Balaram.

The Moniker of Sri Balaram

This newly born child is loaded with extraordinary body strength, so this child will be called Balaram.

Since, He got brought from the womb of Devaki to the womb of Rohini so, He will also be known as Sankarshan. As He appeared as Rohini’s son, He will also be known as Rohini Nandana. He is the elder brother of Krishna, So He is also recognised as “Dauji”.

Lord Balaram’s Appearance

Sri Balaram ji is white as crystal in appearance. Balaram ji is a 16-years old boy, full of zeal glistened with supernatural powers.

He wears blue clothes and garlands with vanamala and kunjamala. Ruby and Pearl neckpiece beautifully placed in his neck, armlets in his strong arms, and wears beautifully crafted anklets in His lotus feet, He looks even more attractive. His broad chest is ornamented with a garland of Gunja Mala, and he has a harsh and soft voice. His long arm touches His knee. His beauty is similar to millions of glistening rising moons. His boundless strength is equal to the minimal amount of force sufficient to destroy many armies of demons.

Even being well informed about the supernatural power of His younger brother, Balaram ji never left Sri Krishna alone in the jungle. As an elder brother, Balaram ji was a symbol of Sri Krishna’s love and respect. Therefore, Balaram ji is very dear to Lord Sri Krishna, and He is the nectar ocean of many sweet pastimes. There are some such pastimes in which Balaram ji has a special mention.

Lord Balaram’s Pastimes

Balaram Ji slays Dhenukasura and Pralambasura. They were demons sent by Kansa to chastised Yamuna Devi.

Sri Balaram also freed Samba from the captivity of Kauravas. Balaram Ji married Revati. Balaram became angry with Bhima for killing Duryodhana by trickery and killed Romaharshana for not deserving esteem to Vyasdeva.

Creator of Spirituality

Due to the first expansion of the Supreme Lord, the entire spiritual world has originated from Balaram Ji. All the material and conscious things engaged in the service of the Supreme Lord are expanded from Sri Balaram Ji. He is the original Guru Tattva, the original Guru of all living beings. When Balaram Ji roams in the forest, a few trees crouch towards Him to greet Him.

Lord Krishna’s Words

Lord Krishna says all the demigods also want to do sewa of lotus feet of Sri Balaram and please Him. Lord Balaram is the eternal companion of Lord Sri Krishna. He always appeared with Lord Krishna as Lakshmana with Rama and later as Nityananda Prabhu with Chaitanya Mahaprabhu. Consistently, He always stayed with Supreme Lord Krishna in His pastimes to provide service to the Lord. So Balaram Ji is like a retainer of Lord Sri Krishna. His only mission is to please Krishna by providing assistance to him.

He is the original spiritual Guru. Anyone who has the impulse to make spiritual progress has to acquire the mercy of Sri Balaram. Thus we should pray and please Lord Balaram that He provides us strength to give service to Lord Krishna with complete devotion and dedication.