Shravan Mahina, or Sawan Mahina, is dedicated to Hindu god Shiva. Shravan Mahinais from July 22 to August 19 in this year 2024 in North Indian Hindu calendar for states such as for Delhi, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and Bihar. According to Telugu, Kannada, Marathi & Gujarati calendars, or for states like Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Goa and Tamil Nadu, Shravan Maas 2024 is from August 05 to September 03. Sawan Somwar Vrat Dates for Nepal and some parts of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh are from 16th July, 2024 to 15th August 2024.
Special abhishek, prayers and rituals are performed with devotion in temples of Lord Shiva. In this month of Sawan, Kanwarias collect the water of Ganga River or Gangajal, and take away with them walking on foot to their homes and pour the holy water on Shivling.
Importance & Significance of Sawan Month
Sawan month also called as ‘Nabhas’. On the day of Shravan Purnima or the full moon day in Shravana maas, also comes the Shravana nakshatra (Nakshatra of God Sri Maha Vishnu), thus this full month is known as Shravana masam. This is one of the main reason Sravan month is important and auspicious for the Hindus.
Worshipping Shiva Parvati on Somvar or Mondays or observing a vrat/fast in the Sawan month is considered highly auspicious. There is also a legend that goes regarding Shravan Maas, Sati, the daughter of Daksh sacrificed her life and vowed that she would marry Lord Shiva in every birth she takes and when she was born as Devi Parvati to parents Himalaya and Maina, Parvati started fasting in this month of Sawan since her young age. Shiva was impressed with the devotion of Parvati and thus fasting in this Sawan month has a great significance.
Samudra Manthan in Shravan Mahina
It is during this period of shravan maas that Lord Shiva drank poison that came out during the churning of ocean and saved the world. This churning of ocean was popularly called "Samdura Manthan" in Hindi and all the Hindu gods and goddesses were witness to this Samudra Manthan and subsequent act of drinking poison by Shiva. This is one of the reasons that ganga -jal or water is offered to the Shivling to remove the ill-effects of poison.
Importance of Shravan Month is also due to the fact that the three other days are also considered auspicious- the Shravana Mangalvar (Tuesdays in Shravan month), Shravana Shukravar (Fridays in Shravan month) and Shravana Shanivar (Saturdays in Shravan month). Newly married brides observe Mangala Gauri Vrata on Tuesdays in the month of Shravan to get away from bad and negative omens. Shravana Shukravar Vrat (Varalakshmi Vratam) is observed by married women on Fridays in the month of Sawan. Saturdays in the month of Sawan, Lord Sri Maha Vishnu or Lord Venkatesha or (Lord Balaji) is worshipped.
Shivji is worshipped by offering Gangajal, Bilva leaves, Dhatura, Bhang leaves, fruits to the Shivling and people observe fast on every Monday that come during Shravan Puja. The fast is known as Saawan Somwaar Vrata. Some people prefer to eat only vegetarian foods and some people read Holy Scriptures of Shiva like ShivaPuran.
Famous Shiva temples like Shiva Deoghar Baidhyanath Dham, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Mahakaleshwar in Ujjain is visited by lakhs of Hindus from all over the world in the month of Sawan.
Shravan Mahina is one of the first Hindu sacred months of four holiest months of Chatur Mas. Tuesdays are dedicated to the worship of Mangala Gouri Puja and Saturdays for worship of Lord Shani.in the Shravan Month. Sawan maas is highly auspicious for good karmas. Grihpravesh in the sawan month has high significance as well as persons born in the sawan maas are also considered lucky like Lord Jagannath, Sri Krishna, Lord Hayagriva etc.
Shravan Pournami or Sharavan Purnima is also celebrated in some parts of the country as Jandhyala Pournami. In North India, Sawan Purnima is celebrated as Raksha bandhan. Worshipping of Sri Vishnu and Goddess Laxmi is also auspicious in the Shravan month.
Varalakshmi vratam or Varalakshmi vratham is also known as Varalakshmi Pooja & Varalakshmi Nombu is one of the important days to worship the goddess of wealth and prosperity, Maha Lakshmi who is also known by the name of Varalakshmi, consort of Lord Vishnu. A forms of Goddess Mahalakshmi, Goddess Varalakshmi came from the churning of the ocean or Kshir Sagar. Goddess Varalakshmi has the complexion of milky ocean and wears same color clothes. Goddess Varalakshmi showers boons and fulfills all desires of her devotees. That is why she is known as Vara + Lakshmi i.e. Goddess Lakshmi who gives boons.
Telugu: వరలక్ష్మి వ్రతం Tamil: வரலட்சுமி விரதம்
Kannada: ವರಮಹಾಲಕ್ಷ್ಮಿ ವ್ರತ Hindi: वरलक्ष्मी व्रत
English: Varalakshmi vratam or Varalakshmi vratham
Varamahalakshmi Vratham
The Varalakshmi vratham or Varamahalakshmi vratham is observed on the second Friday or the last Friday in the month of Shravana Shukla Paksha before the festival of Rakhi or Raksha Bandhan and Shravana Purnima. It is suggested that Varalakshmi Vrat should be observed by men and women both. In Andhra, Telangana and Maharashtra regions, Varalakshmi fasting in mainly performed by married women only. The Varalakshmi fasting is observed to get children, spouse, luxury and all sorts of material pleasures of Earth. People who are not able to observe Varalakshmi vratham on that day, can do it on any other Friday in that month.
In Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra, Varalakshmi Vratam fasting and Puja is very popular. Mostly married women observe Varalakshmi Puja fasting for the well-being of husband and other family members. It is a belief that if you worship Goddess Vara-Lakshmi on this day, it is equal to worshipping Ashtalakshmi i.e. the eight Goddesses of Wealth (Sri), Earth (Bhu), Learning (Saraswati), Love (Priti), Fame (Kirti), Peace (Shanti), Pleasure (Tushti) and Strength (Pushti). All the eight forces combined are called the Ashta Lakshmis or the eight Lakshmis of the Hindus. There names are as follows:
Aadi Lakshmi (the Protector)
Dhana Lakshmi (Goddess of Wealth)
Dhairya Lakshmi (Goddess of Courage)
Sowbhagya Lakshmi (Goddess of Prosperity)
Vijaya Lakshmi (Goddess of Victory)
Dhanya Lakshmi (Goddess of Nourishment)
Santaana Lakshmi (Goddess of Progeny)
Vidhya Lakshmi (Goddess of Wisdom)
Varalakshmi Vratam is regarded as one of the most appropriate days to propitiate and seek blessings of Goddess Lakshmi. Varalakshmi Puja is not popular in North Indian states as compared to those of South Indian states. The fast is performed by consuming water only and consumption of grains are strictly avoided. Fruits and milk can be taken.
Varalakshmi Puja Muhurat
Fixed Lagna is regarded as the most appropriate time to worship Goddess Lakshmi as Lakshmi Puja done during fixed Lagna bestows long-lasting prosperity. Here four Puja timings in a day are given when fixed Lagna is there. You can choose any appropriate time among these for Varalakshmi Puja. However, evening time that overlaps with Pradosh Kaal is considered the most appropriate time to worship Goddess Lakshmi.
Varalakshmi Vratham 2024 Date and Pooja Timings
Varalakshmi Vratam Puja Time for Andhra Pradesh (Visakhapatnam)
Varalakshmi Vratham 2024 Date - Friday, August 16, 2024
Simha Lagna Puja Muhurat (morning) - 05:45 AM to 07:52 AM
Duration - 02 Hours 07 Mins
Vrishchika Lagna Puja Muhurat (afternoon) - 12:08 PM to 02:22 PM
Duration - 02 Hours 14 Mins
Kumbha Lagna Puja Muhurat (evening) - 06:18 PM to 07:56 PM
Duration - 01 Hour 38 Mins
Vrishabha Lagna Puja Muhurat (midnight) - 11:16 PM to 01:17 AM, Aug 17
Duration - 02 Hours 00 Mins
Varalakshmi Vratam Puja Time for Telangana (Hyderabad)
Varalakshmi Vratam 2024 Date - Friday, August 16, 2024
Simha Lagna Puja Muhurat (morning) - 06:05 AM to 08:11 AM
Duration - 02 Hours 07 Mins
Vrishchika Lagna Puja Muhurat (afternoon) - 12:27 PM to 02:40 PM
Duration - 02 Hours 14 Mins
Kumbha Lagna Puja Muhurat (evening) - 06:37 PM to 08:15 PM
Duration - 01 Hour 38 Mins
Vrishabha Lagna Puja Muhurat (midnight) - 11:36 PM to 01:36 AM, Aug 17
Duration - 02 Hours 01 Min
Varalakshmi Vratam Puja Time for Karnataka (Bengaluru)
Varalakshmi Vratam 2024 Date - Friday, August 16, 2024
Simha Lagna Puja Muhurat (morning) - 06:13 AM to 08:15 AM
Duration - 02 Hours 03 Mins
Vrishchika Lagna Puja Muhurat (afternoon) - 12:23 PM to 02:35 PM
Duration - 02 Hours 12 Mins
Kumbha Lagna Puja Muhurat (evening) - 06:36 PM to 08:18 PM
Duration - 01 Hour 42 Mins
Vrishabha Lagna Puja Muhurat (midnight) - 11:46 PM to 01:48 AM, Aug 17
Duration - 02 Hours 02 Mins
Varalakshmi Vratam Puja Time for Tamil Nadu (Chennai)
Varalakshmi Vratam 2024 Date - Friday, August 16, 2024
Simha Lagna Puja Muhurat (morning) - 06:02 AM to 08:05 AM
Duration - 02 Hours 03 Mins
Vrishchika Lagna Puja Muhurat (afternoon) - 12:13 PM to 02:25 PM
Duration - 02 Hours 12 Mins
Kumbha Lagna Puja Muhurat (evening) - 06:25 PM to 08:07 PM
Duration - 01 Hour 42 Mins
Vrishabha Lagna Puja Muhurat (midnight) - 11:35 PM to 01:37 AM, Aug 17
Duration - 02 Hours 02 Mins
Varalakshmi Vratam Puja Time for Maharashtra (Mumbai)
Varalakshmi Vratam 2024 Date - Friday, August 16, 2024
Simha Lagna Puja Muhurat (morning) - 06:25 AM to 08:33 AM
Duration - 02 Hours 08 Mins
Vrishchika Lagna Puja Muhurat (afternoon) - 12:51 PM to 03:06 PM
Duration - 02 Hours 14 Mins
Kumbha Lagna Puja Muhurat (evening) - 07:01 PM to 08:38 PM
Duration - 01 Hour 37 Mins
Vrishabha Lagna Puja Muhurat (midnight) - 11:55 PM to 01:55 AM, Aug 17
Duration - 02 Hours 00 Mins
Varalakshmi Puja Vidhi
Varalakshmi Puja Vidhi is similar to Maha Lakshmi Puja done on Diwali. There are some Puja steps and also mantra for Dorak and Vayana. Dorak is the sacred thread tied during Varalakshmi Puja and Vayana is the sweets offered to Varalakshmi.
Varalakshmi Vratam Rituals
Varalakshmi vratam preparation starts a day earlier that is a Thursday. Varalakshmi Vratam puja requirements are collected on that day. On Varalakshmi vratam day which is Friday, Varalakshmi devotees rise early in the morning before Sunrise that is ‘Brahma Muhurtham’. After bathing, house is cleaned and a beautiful ‘kolam’ (rangoli) is decorated at place where Varalakshmi puja is to be performed.
After that a ‘Kalasha’ is prepared, mostly a silver or bronze pot. The pot is cleaned and smeared with sandalwood paste. A ‘swastika’ symbol is then drawn on the Kalasha. The Kalasha is then filled with water or raw rice, one lime, coins, beetle nut and five different kinds of leaves. A clean cloth is tied on the neck of the Kalasha and mango leaves are put on the above side. A coconut alongwith turmeric is used to cover the mouth of the Kalasha. A picture of Goddess Lakshmi is pasted or drawn with turmeric powder on the coconut. The Kalasha now symbolises Goddess Varalakshmi and the devotee worships her with full devotion.
The Kalasha is placed on the heap of rice. First Lord Ganesha is worshipped. Then ‘Lakshmi Sahasranamam’ is recited in front of the Goddess. Special sweets made at home are offered to the Goddess Varamahalakshmi. After full puja, Aarti is performed on the Kalasha . Women tie a yellow thread around their hands while doing puja.
Now a days Readymade Kalasha pots are also available for use in the Varalakshmi Vrat. The water inside the Kalasha is sprinkled all over the house and the rice used is mixed with the rice stored in the house on Saturday.
Significance of the Varalakshmi Vratham
The Varalakshmi Vratham is one of the most significant and powerful fast as it has been narrated by Lord Shiva himself to Goddess Parvati. Goddess Lakshmi showers prosperity, wealth, fortune, wisdom, courage and fertility to the worshipper. The married women perform this vrat to please Goddess Lakshmi and receive her divine grace and blessings. Women pray to the Goddess for the long life of their husband good fortune and also to get good children. The 'Skanda Purana' mentions the importance of Varalakshmi vratam.
Varalakshmi Vrat Benefits
Observing Varalakshmi Vrat showers the following benefits to the worshipper and her family:
The first and foremost is the blessings of Goddess Varalakshmi.
Good health, wealth, fortune and prosperity
No financial problems
Protection from evil forces and provides long life of self and family
Attain inner peace and fulfill your materialistic desires
All brothers and sisters are eager to know when is Raksha bandhan celebrated in India. Raksha bandhan day falls on a full-moon in the month of Shravan. Raksha bandhan date varies from year to year. For the exact rakhi festival date or to know when is rakhi festival celebrated in India, you can also refer to the Hindu calendar. The date of raksha bandhan 2022 has been published according to the Hindu calendar. Preparation for raksha bandhan 2022 has already started in various parts of India. Raksha bandhan is also known as Rakhi purnima or Raksha bandhan purnima.
What is Raksha Bandhan
Raksha bandhan celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters where sisters lovingly tie a rakhi or a sacred thread in her brother’s wrist. The sister wishes her brother Happy Raksha Bandhan and also wish her brother’s lifelong well being and happiness.
Raksha Bandhan Meaning
The significance of raksha bandhan is that when the sisters tie the piece of rakhi on their brother’s hand, the brothers take a vow to protect their beloved sisters from all harm for the rest of their lives. The name of the raksha bandhan festival is derived from this concept. Typically, Rakhi is an Indian festival celebrated by Hindus, Muslims, and Sikhs.
Importance of Rakhi festival in India
There are several mythological stories popular among the Indians about raksha bandhan. Raksha bandhan history or rakhi history goes back to the very ancient times. The children listen to the mythological stories from their grandparents and parents and see the pictures of Rakhi festival depicting the raksha bandhan story that help us know Rakhi festival from our very childhood.
When is Raksha Bandhan celebrated
Rakhi festival in India is celebrated on a full moon in the month of Shravan according to the Hindu calendar.
Raksha Bandhan Thread Ceremony Time - 01:30 PM to 09:05 PM
Duration - 07 Hours 36 Mins
Aparahna Time Raksha Bandhan Muhurat - 01:42 PM to 04:17 PM
Duration - 02 Hours 35 Mins
Pradosh Time Raksha Bandhan Muhurat - 06:52 PM to 09:05 PM
Duration - 02 Hours 13 Mins
Raksha Bandhan Bhadra End Time - 01:30 PM
Raksha Bandhan Bhadra Punchha - 09:51 AM to 10:53 AM
Raksha Bandhan Bhadra Mukha - 10:53 AM to 12:37 PM
Purnima Tithi Begins - 03:04 AM on Aug 19, 2024
Purnima Tithi Ends - 11:55 PM on Aug 19, 2024
When is the best time to tie Rakhi?
The best time to tie Rakhi on Raksha Bandhan is at Aparahna time which is late afternoon as per Hindu division of the day. If Aparahna time is not available on a particular day, then Pradosh time is also considered the suitable time to perform rituals related to Raksha Bandhan.
Raksha Bandhan rituals must not be performed during Bhadra time. Bhadra is an evil time which must be avoided for all auspicious works. Vratraj, ancient Hindu text advises that Bhadra time must be avoided to tie Rakhi during Raksha Bandhan festival. Bhadra prevails during first half of Purnima Tithi. Thus one must wait for Bhadra to get over before starting any auspicious work including tying Rakhi on brother/sister hand. North Indians don't consider Bhadra time and instead tie Rakhi in the morning which is not suitable time to do it. Everybody must avoid the Bhadra Muhurat while performing Rakhi rituals.
Does Bhadra Muhurat on Raksha Bandhan is avoided?
Raksha Bandhan rituals must not be performed during Bhadra time. Bhadra is an evil time which must be avoided for all auspicious works. Vratraj, ancient Hindu text advises that Bhadra time must be avoided to tie Rakhi during Raksha Bandhan festival. Bhadra prevails during first half of Purnima Tithi. Thus one must wait for Bhadra to get over before starting any auspicious work including tying Rakhi on brother/sister hand. North Indians don't consider Bhadra time and instead tie Rakhi in the morning which is not suitable time to do it. Everybody must avoid the Bhadra Muhurat while performing Rakhi rituals.
Legends of Raksha Bandhan
There are several interesting legends and mythological stories associated with raksha bandhan. Most of the raksha bandhan legends date back to the Hindu puranas and epics.
King Bali and Goddess Laxmi - In the story of King Bali and Goddess Laxmi, Goddess Laxmi went to Bali to seek refuge and tied rakhi on his hands on the day of shravan purnima.
Indra/Indrani and Yama/Yamuna - In the story of Indra and Indrani and Yama and Yamuna the vows of protecting the sister and the never-ending love have been re-emphasized.
King Porus and Alexander's wife Roxana - In the historical anecdote of King Porus and Alexander's wife Roxana, she had sent a rakhi to King Porus because of which Porus had retracted from the battlefield without harming Alexander.
Maharani Karnawati and Emperor Humayun - Maharani Karnawati and Emperor Humayun also find a place in the history of raksha bandhan legends when she had asked for help from Humayun by sending a rakhi.
Rakhi Festival Celebrations
Raksha bandhan day is celebrated by wishing each other Happy raksha bandhan. For brothers and sisters who are living far away from each other, the sisters also send raksha bandhan letter along with the piece of scared thread of rakhi. There are so many and colourful and different types of rakhis available in the market. Raksha bandhan celebration in India happens with a lot of enthusiasm. This festival is especially predominant in North India. South, East, and West India celebrations are carried out by sending gifts and special raksha bandhan messages. The ceremony of tying the sacred thread of rakhi along with wishes form the main part of the rakhi celebrations. In West Bengal, especially in Kolkata this day coincides with the jhoolan purnima. Pictures of sisters lovingly tying rakhi in their brother’s wrists are a common sight. There are unique raksha bandhan celebration ideas and photos available. The history of raksha bandhan goes back to the ancient period when Rani Karnavati, the widowed queen of Chittor sent a rakhi to the Mughal emperor Humayun asking for his help.
Raksha Bandhan Wishes
Rakhi celebrates the unique and incomparable love between a brother and sister through loads of raksha bandhan wishes. Special raksha bandhan wishes for brother come from all sisters far and near. Sisters pray for the lifelong well being of the brothers and send cards, greetings, and messages. Wishes and cards are exchanged, SMS and quotes is Hindi, English and other regional languages such as Gujarati, Marathi, Punjabi, Bengali, etc. are downloaded to be used in preparing special cards for sisters and brothers. Brothers also wish the happiness and prosperity of their sisters and also take a vow to protect their sisters from all harm and unhappiness.
The following are a great collection of wishes for Raksha Bandhan:
-May this Rakhi bring you everything you desire and everything you dream of. May success Accompany you in every step that you take. Have A Blessed Rakhi
-Do U Know That, Fun As A Triple Scoops, Sweet As Chocolates, Bright & Cheerful As Flowers, Its You, May Your Wishes Come True, and May Each Of Your Days Be Filled With, Joy & Smiles Too! Happy Raksha Bandhan Dear Brother!
-The loving occasion of Raksha Bandhan is the best time Brother, To reminisce fondly the wonderful moment we have spent together, Thanks for spreading smiles everywhere and making life so beautiful, Meaningful and Happy Raksha Bandhan My Dear Brother.
-Days go past without us expressing our deep affection for each other. Rakhi Comes as a golden Opportunity to tell you that i’ll always adore you and wish you happiness of Every kind… On Rakhi Wishes You Life’s Biggest Joy
-We were always close, looking out for each other even when life led us along different paths… Like an invisible thread, our love binds us together, making sure we’ll remember where we came from and what we mean to each other. Wishing you a joyous Raksha Bandhan, Dear Brother.
-It’s a small thread that has travelled a long way. From pulling each other’s leg, to growing into The best of friends…Today its paused, At yet another milestone, on the journey of friendship and love. May this small thread bind us forever !
-You never say no, you never say thats impossible And you never say you can’t. That’s my bro, A superman who make things Possible and who make paths smoother. I love you.
Raksha Bandhan Greeting Cards
Rakhi is a happy festival celebrating the eternal bond of love and care between brothers and sisters. Raksha bandhan ecards have become quite popular with the penetration of computers into the Indian households. Raksha bandhan greetings are exchanged among the brothers and sisters as they wish each other with happy raksha bandhan cards. Greeting cards fit for all ages and expressing all types of emotions in various regional languages such as Gujarati, Marathi, Bengali, Punjabi, and Hindi can be found to make your brother’s or sister’s day special. Several websites allow download of free cards from their extensive card libraries. Raksha bandhan greeting cards generate quite a lot of business as there are millions of cards sold all over the country. For those brothers and sisters who are staying abroad can send cards to their dear ones to India through the option of rakhi greeting e-cards. Special rakhi cards for brother with customized messages are a trend. There are various types rakhi cards online, along with the animated cards fitted for kid brothers and sisters or special cards meant for sister. Raksha bandhan printable cards can be downloaded from the various websites on the occasion. This happy occasion sees an exchange of messages, SMS, and a lot of nice gifts.
Raksha Bandhan Quotes
Rakhi, celebrating the eternal bond of a brother and sister is celebrated by writing special words and composing special poems for brother and for sister. Greetings sent through SMS and messages expressing heartfelt love are exchanged all over the world. Raksha bandhan quotes in Hindi or general quotes on raksha bandhan, including raksha bandhan shayari in various regional languages, for example in Gujarati, Marathi or Hindi are also very popularly downloaded by all generations. Famous raksha bandhan sayings are collected from friends by brothers and sisters to let them know how much they care for their brothers or sisters.
The following are some of the great quotes on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan:
- It’s hard to be responsible, adult and sensible all the time. How good it is to have a sister whose heart is as young as your own. ~Pam Brown
- She is your mirror, shining back at you with a world of possibilities. She is your witness, who sees you at your worst and best, and loves you anyway. She is your partner in crime, your midnight companion, someone who knows when you are smiling, even in the dark. She is your teacher, your defense attorney, your personal press agent, even your shrink. Some days, she’s the reason you wish you were an only child. ~Barbara Alpert
- Whatever you do they will love you; even if they don’t love you they are connected to you till you die. You can be boring and tedious with sisters, whereas you have to put on a good face with friends. ~Deborah Moggach
-Sisters are for sharing laughter and wiping tears. ~Author Unknown
-You can kid the world. But not your sister. ~Charlotte Gray
-Sisters don’t need words. They have perfected a language of snarls and smiles and frowns and winks – expressions of shocked surprise and incredulity and disbelief. Sniffs and snorts and gasps and sighs – that can undermine any tale you’re telling. ~Pam Brown
-A sister is a little bit of childhood that can never be lost. ~Marion C. Garretty
-More than Santa Claus, your sister knows when you’ve been bad and good. ~Linda Sunshine
-Having a sister is like having a best friend you can’t get rid of. You know whatever you do, they’ll still be there. ~Amy Li
-It was nice growing up with someone like you – someone to lean on, someone to count on… someone to tell on! ~Author Unknown
-Sisters annoy, interfere, criticize. Indulge in monumental sulks, in huffs, in snide remarks. Borrow. Break. Monopolize the bathroom. Are always underfoot. But if catastrophe should strike, sisters are there. Defending you against all comers. ~Pam Brown
-One of the best things about being an adult is the realization that you can share with your sister and still have plenty for yourself. ~Betsy Cohen
-She takes my hand and leads me along paths I would not have dared explore alone. ~Maya V. Patel
Raksha Bandhan Messages
Rakhi festival of India is a predominant festival celebrating the indomitable spirits of all brothers and sisters. Sister write sweet raksha bandhan letter to brother. They prepare cards with raksha bandhan messages for brothers very lovingly and the brothers go about hunting special gifts for sisters. Raksha bandhan message for sisters, long loving letters, poems and sayings are downloaded or composed to be gifted to brothers. Raksha bandhan SMS messages in Hindi, Bengali, English, Marathi, and various other Indian languages float around. Nice raksha bandhan sayings, letters, and poems with poignant quotes form an integral part of happy raksha bandhan messages.
Happy Raksha Bandhan Messages
-Aaj rakhi ka din khushiya laya hai, behan-bhai ke rishte ko khushiyon se bharne aya hai, aao milkar manaye raksha bandhan, kyun ki yeh har behan-bhai ko apana furz yad dilane aya hai. Happy Rakshabandhan....
-I waited long for the day through the year that you so ceremoniously tie rakhi on my wrist and pray for my well being. Dear Sis, I wish that our bond grows stronger everyday.
-Sister is someone who is caring and sharing. Sister can understand things you never said. She can understand pain, which is not visible to anyone. I love my sister.
-On this special ocassion of Rakhi, I just wanted to thank you for all the times you have been there to encourage, to depend on and for support and love. Ours is a wonderful relationship and I hope it stays this way always. This is the time to show how much we mean to each other not only on the ocassion of Rakhi but always.
-We were always close, looking out for each other even when life led us along different paths... Like an invisible thread, our love binds us together, making sure we'll remember where we came from and what we mean to each other. Wishing you a joyous Raksha Bandhan, Dear Brother.
-Never ever thought we will not be together this day. I am really missing you very much. The Rakhi you send is very good, it's looking great on my wrist. I just pray that we will be together on every Rakhi from next year. May God bless you with lot of happiness, love and success. Take care.
-Warm wishes on Rakhi Day! Rakhi Day is the day when special people like u r thought of fondly with luv & cheer. Hope every hour of this special day is filled with moments, that will bring happiness 4 U. HAVE A GR8 RAKHI BHAYYA With loads of love Yours ever loving sis.
-God could not take care for the whole world so he has given mothers to each family. In the same way mother could not take care for the whole part of our life, so she had given brother. Thanks for being my brother.
-I wish u "HAPPY RAKHI" and I pray to GOD for ur prosperous life. May you find all the delights of life, may all ur dreams come true. My best wishes will always be with you and I wish that u'll always shower your blessings on me.
-You know that you are the most precious stone in the collection of my secret treasure.. Wishing you very Happy Rakhi and best of luck for every thing.
Raksha Bandhan SMS
The festival of rakhi is celebrated with huge fanfare and joyous activities. Sending raksha bandhan SMS to brothers and sisters is now very popular. Even Raksha bandhan Hindi SMS, Marathi SMS, Telegu SMS, and SMSs in other regional Indian languages are exchanged in large numbers. Customized messages for brothers and for sisters can be composed to be sent across. Nice collection of SMS can be downloaded at minimal expenses to speak your heart-felt words. For brothers and sisters who are separated by geographical distances, Raksha bandhan wishes are generally and primarily sent through Raksha bandhan SMS. Now with mobile being popular among all generations, SMSs are sent in millions all across the world. These are some of the great collection of Raksha Bandhan SMS:
-If I Can Choose My Brother In Next Life, It’ll B U (If U Gift Me A Mercedes Benz 2morrow). Love You Always. Happy Raksha Bandhan.
-Holi is colourful, Deewali is lightful and brightful, Rakhi has made our relationship POWERFUL.
-Har Ladki Aapke Liye Bekarar Hai, Har Ladki Ko Aap Ka Intezar Hai, Ye Aap Ka Koi Kamal Nahi, Kuch He Dino Me Raakhi Ka Tyohaar He.
-You Know That You Are The Most Precious Stone In The Collection Of My Secret Treasure.. Wishing You Very Happy Rakhi And Best Of Luck For Every Thing.
-Rakhi Ko Tyonhar Tha, Rakhi Bandhane Ko Bhai Taiyar Tha, Bhai Bola bahna meri ab to rakhi bandh do, Bahna Boli, Kalai Peechhe karo, Pahale Rupae Hazaar do.
-God could not take care for the whole world, so he has given mothers to each family. In the same way mother could not take care for the whole part of our life, so she had given brothers. Thanks for being my brother.
-Rakhi is just an excuse for me to express myself: You mean the world to me. Happy Raksha Bandhan to My sweet sister.
-You Are So Cute, Darling And Adorable.. Can’t Help Forming A Relationship With You… Please Accept Me As Your Dearest And Sweetest Behna. Happy Raksha Bandhan
-Phoolon ka taron ka sabka kehna hai, Duniya me sobse achha mere Bhaiya hai... luv u always. Happy Rakhi..
-Hey didi you are the best. Do you know why? Because I am your brother ;-) Happy Rakhi Didi
Raksha Bandhan Recipes
This Raksha bandhan, make your brothers and sisters day special by preparing a nice and tasty dish. Mouth-watering raksha bandhan recipes written in Hindi and English are available. Hotels and restaurants attract a lot of customers by arranging special raksha bandhan thali where you can take your brother or sister for a special treat. Raksha bandhan sweets are made to order to be gifted when brothers and sisters meet for the tying of the rakhi. Online booking and free delivery of rakhi gift hampers, including delicacies can now be arranged sitting in one’s home and sent across to the various parts of the world.
Raksha Bandhan Songs
Rakhi is usually celebrated with the family members where you enjoy the moments of family bonding and listening to raksha bandhan songs on this day is a good way to renew the sibling bonds. Raksha bandhan songs free download are now available all over internet for you to download anytime. You can listen to and enjoy free mp3 raksha bandhan songs online in all regional languages, including Hindi, Tamil, and Telegu, Punjabi, Marathi, and Gujarati. Songs with touching lyrics specially meant for the occasion can be heard, be it old melodies of the by-gone days or modern songs. Watch raksha bandhan videos on YouTube with friends and family.
Raksha Bandhan Poems
Famous poets and composers have written innumerable Raksha bandhan poems in Hindi and other Indian languages such as Punjabi, Urdu, and Marathi to celebrate the eternal bond between brothers and sisters. Poems specially meant for kids have also been written. Geet or Hindi songs and special quotes celebrating the joys of the raksha bandhan festival are quite rampant in Indian literary history. Raksha bandhan poem stands apart as a symbol of the everlasting love and bond between a brother and a sister. Nice and effective quotes are collected to wish each other among the brothers and sisters. While tying the Rakhi on the brother’s wrist, the sisters might recite a self-composed raksha bandhan poem as that will surely add special warmth to the occasion.
Rakhi Day is Righteous Day by A.P.J.Abdul Kalam
This full moon day our hearts are in brim Feeling of faith and serenity in mind. We light the lamps and our hears glow Radiance of happiness and peace are in flow. Harmonious homes are like streams of joy Flowing and flourishing the landscape en route. Nobility in heart and character in deed Righteous homes alone make a beautiful State. Sisters will tie the thread on the brothers Abiding them to do only what is right and clean. Put the Kumkum and blessed rice on the head Where will dwell right thoughts and noble action.
A Brother Just Like You
I just want to let you know You mean the world to me Only a heart as dear as yours Would give so unselfishly The many things you've done All the times that you were there Help me know deep down inside How much you really care Even though I might not say I appreciate all you do Richly blessed is how I feel Having a brother just like you.
A Sister is Forever by Bruce B. Wilmer
A sister's a sister forever, A bond that diminishes never, A friend who is kindly and caring, A sibling God chooses for sharing., Few ties as deep and profound, And with so much affection abound, Though some thoughts are seldom expressed, Love endures and survives every test., Of the constants that rest in the heart, A sister's a primary part., She'll always be there when you need her, You listen, you value, you heed her., As growth, independence you ponder, Your feelings grow deeper and fonder; And life tells you one thing that is true:, A sister's a large part of you.
Raksha Bandhan Gifts
Rakhi is a festival of enjoying exchanging gifts among brothers and sisters. Nowadays, because of all the popularity and hype given to the occasion by small and big business communities, customized gifts for raksha bandhan occupies a predominant place in the whole celebrations. Gifts specially meant for brothers, for kids, and for sisters are available. Raksha bandhan gifts for sister can be a beautiful piece of jewellery such as raksha bandhan bracelets. Online raksha bandhan gifts can be sent to UK, to USA or to Canada, and to any place in India be it to Chennai or Mumbai. New ideas for raksha bandhan 2011 gifts, including rakhi gift hampers customized to personal likes are now available. Sending rakhi abroad is now easy through the various agencies that operate online and you can place your orders online along with a raksha bandhan gift for your beloved brother or sister sitting somewhere far off.
Rakhi Gifts for Brother
For sisters who are sad that they won’t be able to meet their brothers this raksha bandhan, sending rakhi gifts for brothers is now easy and fast. There is a huge range of unique raksha bandhan gifts for brothers now available in the online stores. Be it gifts for raksha bandhan for brothers, for kids, to be sent to India, to UK, to USA, or to Canada. Send raksha bandhan gift to various places in India be it to Chennai, Mumbai or lesser known places. Online raksha bandhan gifts be it raksha bandhan bracelets for both brothers and sisters or attractive rakhi gift hampers along with sending rakhi abroad can be done in minutes. New ranges of expensive and middle-range of raksha bandhan gifts as well as gifts of low ranges for teenage brothers and sisters who have been saving their pocket money for this occasion are now available.
Rakhi gifts for Sister
You can now sit in one corner of the world and send beautiful rakhi gifts for sister sitting somewhere far away from you. Raksha bandhan gifts for sister are picked up by brothers carefully and lovingly. Online sending of gifts for raksha bandhan is now in vogue and it has now become easier for brothers to send raksha bandhan gift to the other side of the earth such as to U.K., to USA, and Canada. It might also be possible to send raksha bandhan gifts or rakhi gift hampers in various places in India such as to Chennai, or Delhi, or Mumbai. Special gifts for kids, or raksha bandhan bracelets for teenage brothers and sisters are also very much in fashion. Online raksha bandhan gifts send from abroad to India is also quite popular. Sending rakhi abroad is now made faster and easier.
Rakhi Return Gifts
Rakhi return gifts form an important part of the rakhi celebration in India. Through the online shopping portals, you can send return gifts to brother and sisters staying in far-off places such as UK and USA. Gifts meant especially for kids are also available in wide ranges. Sending return gifts for raksha bandhan is a widely prevalent custom in North India and other big cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Ahmadabad. Now you can buy rakhi gifts online easily and from a wide variety of choices and can even send rakhi return gifts from the comfort of your house.
Raksha Bandhan Wallpapers
Raksha bandhan wallpapers are available online and can be downloaded for free. Setting a raksha bandhan wallpaper could be a unique way to celebrate the Rakhi festival. It can also be downloaded and set as a surprise for your sister’s or brother’s mobile. Download attractive raksha bandhan wallpapers this raksha bandhan festival 2011 and add spice to your raksha bandhan celebrations. Beautiful floral motifs, or lovely sceneries, thematic wallpapers or abstract designs are now all available to suit every individual’s taste and need. With the increase in the usage of mobiles among the younger generation, the popularity of wallpapers has also increased.
Raksha Bandhan Pictures
Nice and sweet raksha bandhan pictures or images can be downloaded and set as wallpapers. Photos of bonding depicting sweet moments between brothers and sisters can be printed and used for preparing greetings cards to be sent to brothers and sisters. Pictures of raksha bandhan can be downloaded from Internet and used for preparing e-wishes. Download raksha bandhan pics and images from the various websites and prepare a nice greetings card accompanied by a self-composed poem expressing the joy of having such a wonderful brother or sister in your life. Various websites hold up the tradition of rakhi celebration as an integral part of Indian culture through these rakhi pictures of raksha bandhan.
Buy Rakhi Online
With the advent of technology and the penetration of computers and Internet in every household and the increasing awareness among the general masses, you can buy raksha bandhan gifts easily and quickly without visiting the stores. Buy raksha bandhan online gifts, greetings cards, customized gift hampers and send them all across to different places in India and even aboard such as UK, USA, and Canada. Buy rakhi online sitting anywhere in the world and send them across to your brothers and sisters staying in some other part of the world.
Send Rakhi
Send rakhi gifts to any part of the world be it to UK, to USA or Canada from the comfort of your house. Special customised gifts and flowers, chocolates, and hampers can be sent to sisters to give her a pleasant surprise. Similarly, sisters can send special gifts to brothers by ordering online. Send rakhi to India within days from any part of the world. Brothers and sisters in India can similarly send rakhi online to places such as Germany, Australia, Dubai, and New Zealand along with lovely presents, greetings, SMS, and e-cards. Send raksha bandhan cards and posts scraps; send raksha bandhan thali and other customized gifts to your loving brothers or sisters to make this raksha bandhan very special from them.
गजेंद्र मोक्ष स्तोत्र - श्री विष्णु (Gajendra Moksham Stotram)
श्रीमद्भागवत के अष्टम स्कंध के तीसरे अध्याय में गजेन्द्र मोक्ष स्तोत्र दिया गया है। इसमें कुल 33 श्लोक हैं। हिंदू धर्म के अनुसार गजेंद्र मोक्ष स्तोत्र का जाप करने से जीवन में किसी भी प्रकार की परेशानियों से तत्काल मुक्ति मिल जाती है। गजेंद्र मोक्ष स्तोत्र का पाठ करने से भी भगवान विष्णु अतिप्रसन्न होते हैं और अपने भक्तो के सारे दुःख हर लेते है।
इस स्त्रोत में ग्राह के साथ गजेन्द्र के युद्ध का वर्णन किया गया है, जिसमें गजेन्द्र ने ग्राह के मुख से छूटने के लिए श्री हरि की स्तुति की थी और प्रभ श्री हरि ने गजेन्द्र की पुकार सुनकर उसे ग्राह से मुक्त करवाया. गजेन्द्र मोक्ष का माहात्म्य बतलाते हुए कहा गया है कि इसको समस्त पापों का नाशक, साधक कहा गया है.
इसका प्रतिदिन स्मरण करने से व्यक्ति के संकट दूर होते हैं तथा मुक्ति का मार्ग प्रशस्त होता है. यह एक ऎसा स्त्रोत है जो व्यक्ति को घोर संकट से भी उबारदेता है. इस स्त्रोत पाठ को करने से पूर्व अपनी समस्या का स्मरण करते हुए उससे मुक्ति की कामना हेतु गजेन्द्र मोक्ष स्तोत्र का पाठ आरंभ करना चाहिए भगवान विष्णु जी के सम्मुख दिप प्रज्जवलित करके इस स्त्रोत का जाप आरंभ करें. सच्चे मन एवं श्रद्धा से किया गजेन्द्र मोक्ष का पाठ सभी संकटों को दूर करने वाला होता है.
बुद्धि के द्वारा पिछले अध्याय में वर्णित रीति से निश्चय करके तथा मन को हृदय देश में स्थिर करके वह गजराज अपने पूर्व जन्म में सीखकर कण्ठस्थ किये हुए सर्वश्रेष्ठ एवं बार बार दोहराने योग्य निम्नलिखित स्तोत्र का मन ही मन पाठ करने लगा ॥१॥
गजेन्द्र उवाच गजराज ने (मन ही मन) कहा –
जिनके प्रवेश करने पर (जिनकी चेतना को पाकर) ये जड शरीर और मन आदि भी चेतन बन जाते हैं (चेतन की भांति व्यवहार करने लगते हैं), 'ओम' शब्द के द्वारा लक्षित तथा सम्पूर्ण शरीर में प्रकृति एवं पुरुष रूप से प्रविष्ट हुए उन सर्व समर्थ परमेश्वर को हम मन ही मन नमन करते हैं ॥२॥
जिनके सहारे यह विश्व टिका है, जिनसे यह निकला है , जिन्होने इसकी रचना की है और जो स्वयं ही इसके रूप में प्रकट हैं – फिर भी जो इस दृश्य जगत से एवं इसकी कारणभूता प्रकृति से सर्वथा परे (विलक्षण ) एवं श्रेष्ठ हैं – उन अपने आप – बिना किसी कारण के – बने हुए भगवान की मैं शरण लेता हूं ॥३॥
अपने संकल्प शक्ति के द्वार अपने ही स्वरूप में रचे हुए और इसीलिये सृष्टिकाल में प्रकट और प्रलयकाल में उसी प्रकार अप्रकट रहने वाले इस शास्त्र प्रसिद्ध कार्य कारण रूप जगत को जो अकुण्ठित दृष्टि होने के कारण साक्षी रूप से देखते रहते हैं उनसे लिप्त नही होते, वे चक्षु आदि प्रकाशकों के भी परम प्रकाशक प्रभु मेरी रक्षा करें ॥४॥
समय के प्रवाह से सम्पूर्ण लोकों के एवं ब्रह्मादि लोकपालों के पंचभूत में प्रवेश कर जाने पर तथा पंचभूतों से लेकर महत्वपर्यंत सम्पूर्ण कारणों के उनकी परमकरुणारूप प्रकृति में लीन हो जाने पर उस समय दुर्ज्ञेय तथा अपार अंधकाररूप प्रकृति ही बच रही थी। उस अंधकार के परे अपने परम धाम में जो सर्वव्यापक भगवान सब ओर प्रकाशित रहते हैं वे प्रभु मेरी रक्षा करें ॥५॥
भिन्न भिन्न रूपों में नाट्य करने वाले अभिनेता के वास्तविक स्वरूप को जिस प्रकार साधारण दर्शक नही जान पाते , उसी प्रकार सत्त्व प्रधान देवता तथा ऋषि भी जिनके स्वरूप को नही जानते , फिर दूसरा साधारण जीव तो कौन जान अथवा वर्णन कर सकता है – वे दुर्गम चरित्र वाले प्रभु मेरी रक्षा करें ॥६॥
आसक्ति से सर्वदा छूटे हुए , सम्पूर्ण प्राणियों में आत्मबुद्धि रखने वाले , सबके अकारण हितू एवं अतिशय साधु स्वभाव मुनिगण जिनके परम मंगलमय स्वरूप का साक्षात्कार करने की इच्छा से वन में रह कर अखण्ड ब्रह्मचार्य आदि अलौकिक व्रतों का पालन करते हैं , वे प्रभु ही मेरी गति हैं ॥७॥
जिनका हमारी तरह कर्मवश ना तो जन्म होता है और न जिनके द्वारा अहंकार प्रेरित कर्म ही होते हैं, जिनके निर्गुण स्वरूप का न तो कोई नाम है न रूप ही, फिर भी समयानुसार जगत की सृष्टि एवं प्रलय (संहार) के लिये स्वेच्छा से जन्म आदि को स्वीकार करते हैं ॥८॥
उन अन्नतशक्ति संपन्न परं ब्रह्म परमेश्वर को नमस्कार है । उन प्राकृत आकाररहित एवं अनेको आकारवाले अद्भुतकर्मा भगवान को बारंबार नमस्कार है ॥९॥
स्वयं प्रकाश एवं सबके साक्षी परमात्मा को नमस्कार है । उन प्रभु को जो नम, वाणी एवं चित्तवृत्तियों से भी सर्वथा परे हैं, बार बार नमस्कार है ॥१०॥
विवेकी पुरुष के द्वारा सत्त्वगुणविशिष्ट निवृत्तिधर्म के आचरण से प्राप्त होने योग्य, मोक्ष सुख की अनुभूति रूप प्रभु को नमस्कार है ॥११॥
सत्त्वगुण को स्वीकार करके शान्त , रजोगुण को स्वीकर करके घोर एवं तमोगुण को स्वीकार करके मूढ से प्रतीत होने वाले, भेद रहित, अतएव सदा समभाव से स्थित ज्ञानघन प्रभु को नमस्कार है ॥१२॥
शरीर इन्द्रीय आदि के समुदाय रूप सम्पूर्ण पिण्डों के ज्ञाता, सबके स्वामी एवं साक्षी रूप आपको नमस्कार है । सबके अन्तर्यामी , प्रकृति के भी परम कारण, किन्तु स्वयं कारण रहित प्रभु को नमस्कार है ॥१३॥
सम्पूर्ण इन्द्रियों एवं उनके विषयों के ज्ञाता, समस्त प्रतीतियों के कारण रूप, सम्पूर्ण जड-प्रपंच एवं सबकी मूलभूता अविद्या के द्वारा सूचित होने वाले तथा सम्पूर्ण विषयों में अविद्यारूप से भासने वाले आपको नमस्कार है ॥१४॥
सबके कारण किंतु स्वयं कारण रहित तथा कारण होने पर भी परिणाम रहित होने के कारण, अन्य कारणों से विलक्षण कारण आपको बारम्बार नमस्कार है । सम्पूर्ण वेदों एवं शास्त्रों के परम तात्पर्य , मोक्षरूप एवं श्रेष्ठ पुरुषों की परम गति भगवान को नमस्कार है ॥१५॥ ॥
जो त्रिगुणरूप काष्ठों में छिपे हुए ज्ञानरूप अग्नि हैं, उक्त गुणों में हलचल होने पर जिनके मन में सृष्टि रचने की बाह्य वृत्ति जागृत हो उठती है तथा आत्म तत्त्व की भावना के द्वारा विधि निषेध रूप शास्त्र से ऊपर उठे हुए ज्ञानी महात्माओं में जो स्वयं प्रकाशित हो रहे हैं उन प्रभु को मैं नमस्कार करता हूँ ॥१।६॥
मुझ जैसे शरणागत पशुतुल्य (अविद्याग्रस्त) जीवों की अविद्यारूप फाँसी को सदा के लिये पूर्णरूप से काट देने वाले अत्याधिक दयालू एवं दया करने में कभी आलस्य ना करने वाले नित्यमुक्त प्रभु को नमस्कार है । अपने अंश से संपूर्ण जीवों के मन में अन्तर्यामी रूप से प्रकट रहने वाले सर्व नियन्ता अनन्त परमात्मा आप को नमस्कार है ॥१७॥
शरीर, पुत्र, मित्र, घर, संपंत्ती एवं कुटुंबियों में आसक्त लोगों के द्वारा कठिनता से प्राप्त होने वाले तथा मुक्त पुरुषों के द्वारा अपने हृदय में निरन्तर चिन्तित ज्ञानस्वरूप , सर्वसमर्थ भगवान को नमस्कार है ॥१८॥
जिन्हे धर्म, अभिलाषित भोग, धन तथा मोक्ष की कामना से भजने वाले लोग अपनी मनचाही गति पा लेते हैं अपितु जो उन्हे अन्य प्रकार के अयाचित भोग एवं अविनाशी पार्षद शरीर भी देते हैं वे अतिशय दयालु प्रभु मुझे इस विपत्ती से सदा के लिये उबार लें ॥१९॥
जिनके अनन्य भक्त -जो वस्तुतः एकमात्र उन भगवान के ही शरण है-धर्म , अर्थ आदि किसी भी पदार्थ को नही चाह्ते, अपितु उन्ही के परम मंगलमय एवं अत्यन्त विलक्षण चरित्रों का गान करते हुए आनन्द के समुद्र में गोते लगाते रहते हैं ॥२०॥
उन अविनाशी, सर्वव्यापक, सर्वश्रेष्ठ, ब्रह्मादि के भी नियामक, अभक्तों के लिये प्रकट होने पर भी भक्तियोग द्वारा प्राप्त करने योग्य, अत्यन्त निकट होने पर भी माया के आवरण के कारण अत्यन्त दूर प्रतीत होने वाले , इन्द्रियों के द्वारा अगम्य तथा अत्यन्त दुर्विज्ञेय, अन्तरहित किंतु सबके आदिकारण एवं सब ओर से परिपूर्ण उन भगवान की मैं स्तुति करता हूँ ॥२१॥
ब्रह्मादि समस्त देवता, चारों वेद तथा संपूर्ण चराचर जीव नाम और आकृति भेद से जिनके अत्यन्त क्षुद्र अंश के द्वारा रचे गये हैं ॥२२॥
जिस प्रकार प्रज्ज्वलित अग्नि से लपटें तथा सूर्य से किरणें बार बार निकलती है और पुनः अपने कारण मे लीन हो जाती है उसी प्रकार बुद्धि, मन, इन्द्रियाँ और नाना योनियों के शरीर – यह गुणमय प्रपंच जिन स्वयंप्रकाश परमात्मा से प्रकट होता है और पुनः उन्ही में लीन हो जात है ॥२३॥
वे भगवान न तो देवता हैं न असुर, न मनुष्य हैं न तिर्यक (मनुष्य से नीची – पशु , पक्षी आदि किसी) योनि के प्राणी है । न वे स्त्री हैं न पुरुष और नपुंसक ही हैं । न वे ऐसे कोई जीव हैं, जिनका इन तीनों ही श्रेणियों में समावेश हो सके । न वे गुण हैं न कर्म, न कार्य हैं न तो कारण ही । सबका निषेध हो जाने पर जो कुछ बच रहता है, वही उनका स्वरूप है और वे ही सब कुछ है । ऐसे भगवान मेरे उद्धार के लिये आविर्भूत हों ॥२४॥
मैं इस ग्राह के चंगुल से छूट कर जीवित नही रहना चाहता; क्योंकि भीतर और बाहर – सब ओर से अज्ञान से ढके हुए इस हाथी के शरीर से मुझे क्या लेना है । मैं तो आत्मा के प्रकाश को ढक देने वाले उस अज्ञान की निवृत्ति चाहता हूँ, जिसका कालक्रम से अपने आप नाश नही होता , अपितु भगवान की दया से अथवा ज्ञान के उदय से होता है ॥२५॥
इस प्रकार मोक्ष का अभिलाषी मैं विश्व के रचियता, स्वयं विश्व के रूप में प्रकट तथा विश्व से सर्वथा परे, विश्व को खिलौना बनाकर खेलने वाले, विश्व में आत्मरूप से व्याप्त , अजन्मा, सर्वव्यापक एवं प्राप्त्य वस्तुओं में सर्वश्रेष्ठ श्री भगवान को केवल प्रणाम ही करता हूं, उनकी शरण में हूँ ॥२६॥
जिन्होने भगवद्भक्ति रूप योग के द्वारा कर्मों को जला डाला है, वे योगी लोग उसी योग के द्वारा शुद्ध किये हुए अपने हृदय में जिन्हे प्रकट हुआ देखते हैं उन योगेश्वर भगवान को मैं नमस्कार करता हूँ ॥२७॥
जिनकी त्रिगुणात्मक (सत्त्व-रज-तमरूप ) शक्तियों का रागरूप वेग असह्य है, जो सम्पूर्ण इन्द्रियों के विषयरूप में प्रतीत हो रहे हैं, तथापि जिनकी इन्द्रियाँ विषयों में ही रची पची रहती हैं-ऐसे लोगों को जिनका मार्ग भी मिलना असंभव है, उन शरणागतरक्षक एवं अपारशक्तिशाली आपको बार बार नमस्कार है ॥२८॥
जिनकी अविद्या नामक शक्ति के कार्यरूप अहंकार से ढंके हुए अपने स्वरूप को यह जीव जान नही पाता, उन अपार महिमा वाले भगवान की मैं शरण आया हूँ ॥२९॥
श्री शुकदेवजी ने कहा:
जिसने पूर्वोक्त प्रकार से भगवान के भेदरहित निराकार स्वरूप का वर्णन किया था , उस गजराज के समीप जब ब्रह्मा आदि कोई भी देवता नही आये, जो भिन्न भिन्न प्रकार के विशिष्ट विग्रहों को ही अपना स्वरूप मानते हैं, तब सक्षात श्री हरि- जो सबके आत्मा होने के कारण सर्वदेवस्वरूप हैं-वहाँ प्रकट हो गये ॥३०॥
उपर्युक्त गजराज को उस प्रकार दुःखी देख कर तथा उसके द्वारा पढी हुई स्तुति को सुन कर सुदर्शनचक्रधारी जगदाधार भगवान इच्छानुरूप वेग वाले गरुड जी की पीठ पर सवार होकर स्तवन करते हुए देवताओं के साथ तत्काल उस स्थान अपर पहुँच गये जहाँ वह हाथी था ।
सरोवर के भीतर महाबली ग्राह के द्वारा पकडे जाकर दुःखी हुए उस हाथी ने आकाश में गरुड की पीठ पर सवार चक्र उठाये हुए भगवान श्री हरि को देखकर अपनी सूँड को -जिसमें उसने (पूजा के लिये) कमल का एक फूल ले रक्खा था-ऊपर उठाया और बडी ही कठिनाई से "सर्वपूज्य भगवान नारायण आपको प्रणाम है" यह वाक्य कहा ॥३२॥
उसे पीडित देख कर अजन्मा श्री हरि एकाएक गरुड को छोडकर नीचे झील पर उतर आये । वे दया से प्रेरित हो ग्राहसहित उस गजराज को तत्काल झील से बाहर निकाल लाये और देवताओं के देखते देखते चक्र से मुँह चीर कर उसके चंगुल से हाथी को उबार लिया ॥३३॥
Gajendra Moksha Stotra - Sri Vishnu (Gajendra Moksham Stotram)
Gajendra Moksha Stotra is given in the third chapter of the eighth chapter of Shrimad Bhagwat. It has a total of 33 verses. According to Hindu religion, chanting Gajendra Moksha Stotra provides instant relief from any kind of troubles in life. Lord Vishnu is also very pleased by reciting Gajendra Moksha Stotra and takes away all the sorrows of his devotees.
This strotra describes the battle of Gajendra with the crocodile, in which Gajendra praised Shri Hari to get free from the mouth of the crocodile and Lord Shri Hari freed him from the crocodile after listening to Gajendra's call. Describing the significance of Gajendra Moksha, it has been said that it has been called the destroyer of all sins, a sadhak.
Reciting it daily removes the troubles of a person and paves the way for salvation. This is such a strotra that rescues a person even from severe troubles. Before reciting this hymn, one should remember his problem and start reciting Gajendra Moksha Stotra to wish for freedom from it. Light a lamp in front of Lord Vishnu and start chanting this hymn. Gajendra Moksha recitation done with true heart and devotion removes all troubles.
Having decided through the intellect in the manner described in the previous chapter and fixing the mind in the heart, that elephant king started reciting in his mind the following hymn which he had learnt and memorized in his previous birth, which is the best and worth repeating again and again.॥1॥
Gajendra Uvaach Gajraj said (in his mind) –
On whose entry (on receiving whose consciousness) this inert body and mind etc. also become conscious (start behaving like conscious), we mentally bow to that all-powerful God who is indicated by the word 'Om' and who has entered the entire body in the form of nature and man.॥2॥
I take refuge in that God who is created by Himself, without any cause, on whose support this world rests, from whom it has emerged, who has created it and who is Himself manifest in its form – yet who is beyond this visible world and its causal nature and is superior to it. ॥3॥
He who has created this world in His own form through His willpower and therefore remains manifest during the time of creation and remains unmanifest during the time of destruction, and who keeps on observing this world of cause and effect as a witness due to His uninhibited vision, and who is not entangled in it, may that Lord, who is the ultimate illuminator of the eyes and other illuminators, protect me. ॥4॥
When all the worlds and Brahma and other world-guardians entered the Panchabhuthas with the passage of time and all the causes from the Panchabhuthas to the important ones merged in His supreme compassionate nature, then at that time only the incomprehensible and infinite darkness-like nature remained. May the omnipresent God who shines everywhere in His supreme abode beyond that darkness, protect me. ॥5॥
Just as ordinary spectators are unable to recognize the true nature of an actor who performs in different forms, similarly, even the Sattva-dominated deities and sages do not know His true nature, then who else but an ordinary being can know or describe Him - may that Lord with His difficult character protect me. ॥6॥
He who is always free from attachment, who has the self-consciousness in all beings, who is a benefactor of all without any reason and whose extremely saintly nature sages, with the desire to see His most auspicious form, live in the forest and follow supernatural vows like unbroken celibacy etc., that Lord alone is my path. ॥7॥
Salutations to that Supreme Brahma, the Supreme Being, who is neither born due to karma like us, nor through whom ego-inspired karmas are performed, whose attributeless form has neither any name nor any form, yet, according to time, He willingly accepts birth etc. for the creation and destruction of the world. ॥8॥
Salutations to that Supreme Brahma, the Supreme Being, who is endowed with infinite power. Salutations again and again to that God, who is formless and has many forms and who performs many wonderful deeds. ॥9॥
Salutations to the Supreme Being, who is the self-illuminating and witness of all. Salutations again and again to that Lord, who is beyond salutations, words and mental attitudes. ॥10॥
Salutations to the Lord, who is the form of the experience of the bliss of salvation, which can be attained by a prudent man by practising the virtue-specific Nivriti Dharma. ॥11॥
Salutations to the Lord who is calm by accepting Sattva Guna, fierce by accepting Rajo Guna and appears to be foolish by accepting Tamo Guna, without any distinction and therefore always situated in equanimity. ॥12॥
Salutations to you, the knower of all the bodies which are the group of body, senses etc., the master and witness of all. Salutations to the Lord who is the knower of all the senses, the ultimate cause of nature also, but without any cause yourself. ॥13॥
Salutations to you, the knower of all the senses and their objects, the cause of all appearances, the one who is informed by the entire material world and the fundamental ignorance of all and who appears as ignorance in all the objects. ॥14॥
Salutations to you, who is the cause of everything but without any cause yourself and despite being the cause, without any result, who is the unique cause as compared to other causes, salutations to you again and again. I salute that God who is the ultimate meaning of all Vedas and scriptures, the form of salvation and the ultimate destination of great men. ॥15॥
Who is the fire of knowledge hidden in the wood of the three gunas, in whose mind the external tendency to create the universe is awakened when the above qualities are disturbed, and who is manifesting himself in the wise saints, who have risen above the scriptures of rules and prohibitions through the feeling of the soul, I salute that Lord. ॥1.6॥
Salutations to the eternally liberated Lord, who is most compassionate and never laziness in showing mercy, who completely cuts off the noose of ignorance of the surrendered animal-like beings like me. Salutations to you, the all-controlling, infinite Supreme Soul, who is present in the minds of all beings as the Antaryami (inner controller) through His own part. ॥17॥
Salutations to the omnipotent God, who is the embodiment of knowledge and is difficult to obtain by those attached to the body, son, friend, home, property and family, and who is constantly thought about in the heart of the liberated souls. ॥18॥
Those who worship Him in search of Dharma, desired pleasures, wealth and salvation, attain their desired destination, and who also gives them other kinds of undesired pleasures and an imperishable body, may that most merciful Lord save me from this calamity forever. ॥19॥
Whose exclusive devotees - who are in fact the only ones to take refuge in that Supreme Lord - do not desire Dharma, wealth, etc., but keep diving in the ocean of bliss while singing the praises of His most auspicious and extremely unique deeds. ॥20॥
I offer my praise to that indestructible, omnipresent, supreme, regulator of Brahma and others, who can be attained only through devotion even though he is revealed to the non-devotees, who appears very far even though he is very near, inaccessible to the senses and extremely difficult to know, endless but the root-cause of all and complete from all sides. ॥21॥
All the gods including Brahma, the four Vedas and all the living and non-living creatures, with different names and forms, have been created by a very small part of Him. ॥22॥
Just as flames emerge from a blazing fire and rays from the sun repeatedly and merge back into their cause, similarly the intellect, mind, senses and the bodies of various species – this quality-filled world emerges from the self-illuminating Supreme Soul and again merges back into Him. ॥23॥
That God is neither a god nor a demon, nor a human being nor a creature of the Tiryak (lower than human – animal, bird etc.) species. He is neither a woman nor a man nor a eunuch. He is not such a being that can be included in any of these three categories. He is neither a quality nor an action, nor an effect nor a cause. Whatever remains after the negation of all is His form and He is everything. May such a God appear for my salvation.॥24॥
I do not want to be freed from the clutches of this crocodile and live; because what do I have to do with this elephant's body that is covered with ignorance from all sides – inside and outside. I only want the removal of that ignorance that covers the light of the soul, which does not get destroyed on its own with the passage of time, but gets destroyed by the mercy of God or by the rise of knowledge.॥25॥
Thus, desiring salvation, I only bow before the creator of the universe, who himself appears as the universe and is beyond the universe, who plays with the universe as a toy, who pervades the universe as the soul, who is unborn, omnipresent and the best of all attainable things. I take refuge in Him. ॥26॥
Those yogis who have burnt their karmas through the yoga of devotion to God, those yogis who see Him manifest in their hearts purified by that very yoga, I bow to that Yogeshwar Bhagwan. ॥27॥
The force of attachment of whose trigunaatmak (sattva-rajas-tamas) powers is unbearable, who appear as the objects of all the senses, yet whose senses are engrossed in objects - it is impossible for such people to find the path, those protectors of those who surrender and are illimitable, I bow again and again to You, who are the protectors of those who surrender and are illimitable. ॥28॥
I have taken refuge in that God of infinite glory, whose true nature is covered by the ego, the result of whose power called ignorance, this living being is not able to know its true nature. ॥29॥
Shri Shukdev Ji said:
When none of the gods like Brahma etc. came near the elephant who had described the formless form of God in the above mentioned manner, who considers different types of special forms as their own form, then Shri Hari himself - who is the form of all gods because he is the soul of all - appeared there. ॥30॥
Seeing the above mentioned elephant sad like that and listening to the hymns recited by him, the Jagadadhar God, the bearer of Sudarshana Chakra, riding on the back of Garuda Ji, who had the speed as per his wish, while hymning, immediately reached the place where that elephant was, along with the gods.
That elephant, distressed at being caught by the mighty crocodile inside the lake, seeing Lord Shri Hari in the sky seated on the back of Garuda holding a discus, raised its trunk - in which it had carried a lotus flower (for worship) - and with great difficulty uttered the sentence, "O most revered Lord Narayana, I salute you".॥32॥
Seeing him suffering, the unborn Shri Hari suddenly left Garuda and came down to the lake. Moved by compassion, He immediately brought out that elephant along with the crocodile from the lake and in front of the eyes of the gods, rescued the elephant from its clutches by ripping its mouth with its discus.॥33॥
गजेंद्र मोक्ष स्तोत्र - श्री विष्णु (Gajendra Moksham Stotram)
श्रीमद्भागवत के अष्टम स्कंध के तीसरे अध्याय में गजेन्द्र मोक्ष स्तोत्र दिया गया है। इसमें कुल 33 श्लोक हैं। हिंदू धर्म के अनुसार गजेंद्र मोक्ष स्तोत्र का जाप करने से जीवन में किसी भी प्रकार की परेशानियों से तत्काल मुक्ति मिल जाती है। गजेंद्र मोक्ष स्तोत्र का पाठ करने से भी भगवान विष्णु अतिप्रसन्न होते हैं और अपने भक्तो के सारे दुःख हर लेते है।
इस स्त्रोत में ग्राह के साथ गजेन्द्र के युद्ध का वर्णन किया गया है, जिसमें गजेन्द्र ने ग्राह के मुख से छूटने के लिए श्री हरि की स्तुति की थी और प्रभ श्री हरि ने गजेन्द्र की पुकार सुनकर उसे ग्राह से मुक्त करवाया. गजेन्द्र मोक्ष का माहात्म्य बतलाते हुए कहा गया है कि इसको समस्त पापों का नाशक, साधक कहा गया है.
इसका प्रतिदिन स्मरण करने से व्यक्ति के संकट दूर होते हैं तथा मुक्ति का मार्ग प्रशस्त होता है. यह एक ऎसा स्त्रोत है जो व्यक्ति को घोर संकट से भी उबारदेता है. इस स्त्रोत पाठ को करने से पूर्व अपनी समस्या का स्मरण करते हुए उससे मुक्ति की कामना हेतु गजेन्द्र मोक्ष स्तोत्र का पाठ आरंभ करना चाहिए भगवान विष्णु जी के सम्मुख दिप प्रज्जवलित करके इस स्त्रोत का जाप आरंभ करें. सच्चे मन एवं श्रद्धा से किया गजेन्द्र मोक्ष का पाठ सभी संकटों को दूर करने वाला होता है.
